Bihar council polls: 3 FIRs against JD(U) MLA Anant Singh, Jan Suraaj nominee Anuj Singh
U.S. missions in West Asia issue security alert over possible Iran-backed attacks
Iran and groups supportive of Iran may target other U.S. interests overseas or at locations associated with the United States and Americans throughout the world, including U.S. businesses and other institutions, read an advisory
John Brittas seeks Presidents intervention as JNU students hunger strike enters 17th day
John Brittas said the hunger strike, which began on October 3, followed the university administration's alleged failure to address the student community's genuine and longstanding concerns
France protest: Prime Minister calls for localised curfews in cities to curb rioting, looting
On October 17, 2026, despite scenes of severe violence and extensive property damage, no one was killed, and that is a miracle, said the French PM as he defended the work of police officers faced with violent groups of people
TN Minister Keerthana condemns DMK woman functionarys abusive remarks against CM Vijay
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 19 (IANS) Tamil Nadu Minister Keerthana has strongly condemned alleged abusive remarks against Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay by a DMK womens wing functionary, questioning MP Kanimozhi and Chennai Mayor Priya Rajan for failing to intervene during the speech at a Chennai public meeting. In a sharply worded social media statement, Keerthana accused the opposition party of tolerating personal attacks against a democratically elected Chief Minister. She asked Kanimozhi and Priya, who were seated on the dais, whether they would publicly condemn the remarks or remain silent. The controversy erupted after video clips of the speech circulated widely on social media, drawing protests from Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam supporters. The woman allegedly used derogatory language against Vijay while accusing his government of failing to fulfil its election promises. According to reports, she repeatedly called the Chief Minister a dog and alleged that the TVK administration was merely continuing subsidy schemes introduced by the previous government headed by M.K. Stalin. TVK workers demanded police action against the speaker and others present on the platform. They questioned whether allowing such remarks was consistent with the progressive political values advocated by the DMK. Keerthana alleged that Priya laughed during the speech while Kanimozhi remained seated without registering even a token objection. Some reports, however, described Kanimozhi as appearing uncomfortable during the remarks. The minister said frustration over electoral defeat could not justify insulting an elected Chief Minister or appearing to enjoy such attacks from a public platform. She argued that political leaders had a responsibility to maintain standards of public discourse, irrespective of their differences. Keerthana also linked the controversy to earlier remarks allegedly made by DMK leaders against women, claiming that voters had already expressed their disapproval through the partys recent bypoll defeats. She said womens participation in politics carried a responsibility to uphold dignity and accountability in public life. Merely occupying a political platform, she argued, was insufficient without maintaining those standards. Urging Kanimozhi and Priya to condemn the speech, Keerthana warned that voters were closely watching the conduct of DMK leaders and would respond in future elections.
Indias para-archery star Sheetal Devi equalled the world record with 704 points in the womens compound qualification round at the Asian Para Games in Nagoya, setting a new Asian record. Along with debutant Payal, she helped India top the team qualification standings and secure a direct berth in the semifinals.
The Howdah Bearers | Mysuru's Dasara elephants
Kings stopped riding it in 1969. The elephants never stopped carrying it. This year, Mysuru has picked the next elephant.
Watch: Kolkata Durga Pandal stampede: 7 arrested, probe underway
A stampede at the Chorbagan Sarbajanin Durga Puja pandal in north Kolkata, West Bengal, killed 19 people, including four children. Seven people, including two committee office-bearers, have been arrested. Kolkata Police have registered a culpable homicide case as the State government announces compensation and introduces stricter crowd management measures at Durga Puja pandals.
Beyond Diwali sales, Sivakasi eyes global fireworks market with exports
India's fireworks capital is drawing interest from overseas buyers as Tamil Nadu pushes for export-friendly policies, modernisation and improved infrastructure to boost global sales.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Announces Major Development Projects for Madurantakam and Dharapuram
Tamil Nadus CM announces 1,439 crore water scheme and various development projects for Madurantakam and Dharapuram. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Announces Major Development Projects for Madurantakam and Dharapuram
A Bench of Justices S.V.N. Bhatti and N.V. Anjaria directed the Tamil Nadu government to allot a suitable site to the 20 flat owners within six months before demolishing their apartments
DMK questions Tamil Nadu govt over 137-kg meth seizure; MDMK's Vaiko accuses CEC of voter deletions
DMK Advocate Wing Deputy Secretary I Paranthamen on Monday questioned the Tamil Nadu government's response to the seizure of 137 kg of methamphetamine in a case involving the arrest of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) cadres. Speaking to reporters in Chennai, Paranthamen said the state government and police had not issued a statement on the drug seizure case, questioning their response to the matter.
DMK questions Tamil Nadu government on meth seizure; MDMK
The News Mill
Houthi rebels strike government military camp in southern Yemen, killing at least 20 fighters
The rebels fired ballistic missiles on the al-Alam military camp in the southern province of Shabwa
Asian Para Games 2026: Nishad Kumar wins gold in men's long jump T47 event
The two-time Paralympic silver-medallist will also compete in his pet event, high jump T47, in the ongoing Games.
U.K. defence bosses homes targeted by pro-Palestinian group
The List claimed responsibility for attacks on properties linked to Leonardo, Ultra Intelligence & Communications and Keysight, as police investigate the vandalism
China imposes export controls on tunnel-boring machines sought by India, citing national security
The Chinese Commerce Ministry said on Monday, October 19, in an announcement that, it was introducing export controls on tunnel-boring machines and related items and optimising and adjusting export-control measures for certain dredgers and related items.
Garbage truck driver booked for running over stray puppy at Avalahalli in Bengaluru
The complainant alleges that the garbage vehicles driver, Chakku Miah, failed to honk or make any apparent attempt to alert the dog before running over the animal
MEA rejects OICs anti-India references, accuses Pakistan of orchestrating them
The MEA said that the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are integral and inalienable parts of India, and politically motivated propaganda cannot alter that reality
Ukraine received 'no early warning' of Russian strikes: President Volodymyr Zelenskyy
Russia launched 16 ballistic missiles at the Kyiv region and more than 200 drones across the war-torn country, Volodymyr Zelenskyy said
'Shame On Petty Men': Shashi Tharoor Slams Modi Govt Over 'Silence' On Navi Pillays Nobel Win
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has criticised the Centre over its alleged silence following South African jurist Navi Pillay winning the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize. Calling the absence of congratulatory messages deplorable, Tharoor highlighted Pillays Indian ancestry, with roots in Tamil Nadu. However, former foreign secretary Kanwal Sibal questioned the criticism, citing Pillays past disagreements with India over human rights during her tenure as UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. The debate has also drawn reactions on social media, with some accusing Tharoor of hypocrisy. Pillay, a former international judge, has dedicated her Nobel recognition to survivors of international crimes.
France Protests: 1800 arrested as Macron refuses Interior ministers resignation
At least 1,800 people have been arrested as violent protests sweep France amid public anger over rising living costs and poor school conditions. President Emmanuel Macron has rejected Interior Minister Laurent Nuezs resignation and ordered a review of security failures.
Peaceful protest is fundamental right, but protesters credentials must be weighed: Bombay HC
The Bombay High Court directed the Maharashtra government to respond to petitions alleging illegal detention of protesters during the anti-CEC demonstrations, while cautioning that criminals should not participate under the guise of civilians
Neha Bora moves Delhi High Court against peace bond notice
AISA said Neha Boras petition seeks an immediate stay and withdrawal of the notice, and argues that the notice is prima facie ambiguous and factually incorrect
Tiger Shroff firing: AAP MP Sanjay Singh questions PM Modi, Amit Shah over gang in BJP-ruled state
AAP MP Sanjay Singh criticized the ruling government over the law-and-order situation, questioning how a criminal gang can operate freely and open fire on actor Tiger Shroff in a BJP-ruled state while its leader is imprisoned in Gujarat, demanding accountability from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Prakash Raj: Release Ashutosh and Saurav immediately, dont be a fool
Tiger Shroff firing: Three detained from Mumbai train in Kota
Police lost control during French protests, says Interior Minister
President Emmanuel Macron also refused Interior Minister Laurent Nunezs resignation even as he acknowledged security and intelligence failures in the government response
Bombay HC to hear actor Imran Khans plea against Leave India order on October 26
Actor Imran Khan has approached the Bombay High Court challenging a Mumbai Police notice directing him to leave India by October 28. The U.S. citizen was briefly detained near a protest in Mumbai on October 10 but maintains that he neither participated in the demonstration nor had any links to its organisers. Khan has also received a notice questioning his OCI status. The High Court will hear his plea on October 26.
Karnataka Power Struggle | Stalin Targets Vijay | Jagan Calls Election Law Support A Mistake
Three major political developments are in focus. Karnataka BJP chief BY Vijayendra claims meetings have begun within the Congress to remove DK Shivakumar from the Chief Ministers chair. In Tamil Nadu, former Chief Minister MK Stalin targets Vijay over the law-and-order situation, citing recent murders and questioning police administration. Meanwhile, YSRCP chief and former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy says supporting the 2023 law governing Election Commission appointments was a mistake and calls for a more neutral selection process. Here are the key claims, political reactions and issues driving the debate
Two killed in firing on firewood collectors in Manipurs Imphal East
More than 10 people had gone to the hills near Nongshum around 7 a.m. to collect firewood when they were ambushed by the suspected militants, firewood collectors said
Anti-drug activist murder: Diljit Dosanjh says Jhota's family should get justice
Known for raising his voice against the illegal sale of addictive substances at chemist shops, Parvinder Singh Jhota was shot in broad daylight inside a medical store in a busy marketplace in Mansa on October 13
We're seeking development in all domains, air, sea to AI: Vice-chief of Naval Staff
Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar also referred to the Navy's Operation Urja Suraksha, which has helped in safely escorting many ships to Indian shores, amid attacks in critical sea lanes
Greek coast guard says 12 migrants die in Aegean sea crossings
A baby and four women were among six people who died off the island of Lesbos on Monday following the collision, a coast guard official said
TN govt weighs Pallavan House campus for new secretarial amid fisherfolk protest
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 19 (IANS) The Tamil Nadu government is considering the 13.22-acre Pallavan House campus as an alternative location for its proposed Secretariat and Assembly complex following sustained opposition from fishing communities to the Foreshore Estate site. Government sources said the campus, which houses the headquarters of the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC), State Express Transport Corporation (SETC) and two MTC depots, was among the locations being examined. No final decision has been taken, and an announcement is expected within a week. Officials said the government-owned property offers advantages, including avoiding land acquisition and residential displacement. Its accessibility through bus services, suburban trains and Metro Rail could also benefit Secretariat employees and members of the public visiting government offices. The location is close to the Omandurar Government Estate, where an earlier DMK government constructed a Secretariat and Assembly complex that was subsequently converted into a hospital. If Pallavan House is selected, the transport corporations headquarters and existing depot facilities would require relocation. Officials said the Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus at Koyambedu could be considered for the headquarters, allowing transport administrators to oversee bus operations from the same premises. Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay had announced in the Assembly that the government would construct a new Secretariat and Assembly complex at Foreshore Estate for Rs 1,200 crore, with a built-up area of 20 lakh square feet. The announcement triggered protests by fishing communities concerned about the proposed location. Opposition parties and Left parties, including the CPI and CPI(M), subsequently backed their resistance, increasing pressure on the TVK-led government to reconsider the site. Tamil Nadus attempts to establish a new administrative headquarters have repeatedly encountered political and public opposition. In 2003, then Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa proposed constructing a Secretariat on the Queen Marys College campus. Student protests, alongside political and legal opposition, forced the government to abandon the proposal. An alternative site at Kotturpuram was explored in 2004, but did not materialise. The DMK government, headed by M. Karunanidhi, later built the Omandurar Secretariat and Assembly complex on Anna Salai. Inaugurated in March 2010, it served as the administrative headquarters only briefly. After returning to power, Jayalalithaa shifted the Secretariat and Assembly back to Fort St. George. The Omandurar complex, constructed at a cost exceeding Rs 1,000 crore, was subsequently converted into a government hospital, ending its brief administrative role.
CM Vijays negligence is costing lives, alleges M.K. Stalin
Incidents of violence and murder, and the seizure of drugs by central agencies, show that the Chief Minister is not paying adequate attention to the police department, the former CM said
Beyond religiosity: on the Kolkata pandal tragedy| The Hindu Editorial
At least 19 people lost their lives in a stampede at a Durga Puja pandal in Kolkatas Girish Park area. Sudden rain, narrow entry and exit points, and a surge of visitors reportedly contributed to the tragedy. The incident has raised questions about crowd management, police deployment and safety arrangements at large public gatherings. Could better planning and crowd regulation have prevented the deaths?
Nagpur Symbiosis professor placed on leave for sending 'inappropriate' messages to ex-student
The issue triggered protests by the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, whose members demanded the professor's removal and strict action against him.
Marco Rubio says Ukraine and Russia should be focused on ending the war
Tension in Kuppam as police resort to lathi-charge during nominations scrutiny
Security measures were stepped up to prevent further confrontations between the rival groups TDP and the YSCRP
CJP leaders bail hearing delayed; U.S. lawmakers raise concerns over protest crackdown
The bail hearing of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) co-convenors Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka was delayed on Sunday, October 18, according to the partys legal head, Ratna Singh. The two leaders were sent to five days of judicial custody after entering Jantar Mantar by scaling its locked gates, following the denotification of the site as a designated protest venue.
Dalit man assaulted for staying, worshipping at Ballia temple in Uttar Pradesh; two booked
The two accused allegedly abused him using caste-based slurs and assaulted him on October 18
No gang threatening people will be spared: Fadnavis
Premier League: Arsenal edge Forest with late goal, Man United held by Leeds
Brighton crushes Palace to move five points behind Manchester City
90% of flood prevention works completed under DMK rule: T.K.S. Elangovan
Tamil Nadu Transport Department Cracks Down on Overcharging Amid Festival Travel Surge
The Tamil Nadu Transport Department inspected 4,233 buses, issuing fines for violations during the busy festival travel season. Tamil Nadu Transport Department Cracks Down on Overcharging Amid Festival Travel Surge
Tiger Shroff escapes death in Juhu firing incident, Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde meets actor
Actor Tiger Shroff escaped unhurt after shots were fired at his car in Mumbais Juhu area on Sunday evening, leaving two injured. Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde visited the actors residence, while CM Devendra Fadnavis assured swift action as police investigate the shooting and search for suspects.
Four friends clicking selfies on overbridge killed after truck hits SUV in Varanasi
Three of the four victims have been identified as Aman Yadav, Golu Yadav and Alok Mishra; two of the injured are in critical condition
Mamatas party asks if BJP government put spectacle over safety in awarding Chorbagan puja
The Mamata Trinamool Congress party questioned the recognition given to the puja, which had also won awards for best lighting, best pandal and best environment-friendly puja
Dushyant Kumar Gautam takes oath as Sikkim Governor at Lok Bhavan
Newly appointed Sikkim Governor Dushyant Kumar Gautam took oath as the Governor of the state at Lok Bhavan today on Monday. Meanwhile, President Droupadi Murmu on Monday (13 October) appointed four new Governors to the States, naming Sudha Yadav as Karnataka Governor, Dhal Singh Bisen as Uttarakhand Governor, Braj Mohan Ram as Odisha Governor and Dushyant Gautam as Sikkim Governor, according to a statement issued by Rashtrapati Bhavan. Dushyant Gautam, appointed Governor of Sikkim, is a former BJP National General Secretary and former president of the party's Scheduled Caste Morcha. He has served as a councillor in the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and as a Rajya Sabha member. The appointments are part of a broader reshuffle involving six states, with the Governors of Sikkim and Keralam being reassigned to Keralam and Tamil Nadu, respectively. Sudha Yadav, appointed Governor of Karnataka, is a former Lok Sabha MP from Mahendragarh in Haryana and a member of the BJP Parliamentary Board...
Farmers to decide next course of action after consultations on October 19
TASMAC plans to introduce four beer varieties in Tamil Nadu by year-end, with prices starting at 250, pending approval. They will be available at regular and elite outlets. Its online portal lets customers check prices, pay and collect orders using a QR code, but does not provide home delivery.
Tiger Shroff firing incident: Police have identified suspects, will arrest soon, says CM Fadnavis
Devendra Fadnavis said that either suspects or handlers are operating from Maharashtra
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay Wishes Residents a Joyous Ayudha Puja and Vijayadashami
Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay extends warm wishes for Ayudha Puja and Vijayadashami, urging hard work and commitment to progress in Tamil Nadu. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay Wishes Residents a Joyous Ayudha Puja and Vijayadashami
Tamil Nadu BJP Chief Demands Action Against Schools for Religious Discrimination
Tamil Nadu BJP leader Nainar Nagendran calls for criminal action against schools accused of religious discrimination against Hindu students. Tamil Nadu BJP Chief Demands Action Against Schools for Religious Discrimination
French President Macron refuses Interior Minister Laurent Nunez's resignation after protests
The Interior Minister submitted his resignation to the president on Sunday (October 18, 2026), the Elysee palace said in a statement
Orange Alert Issued for Chennai and Three Districts Amid Heavy Rain Forecast
Chennai and nearby districts face heavy rain as an orange alert is issued, with expectations of severe weather conditions across Tamil Nadu. Orange Alert Issued for Chennai and Three Districts Amid Heavy Rain Forecast
Mahamaagham festival faces uncertainty amid dispute over management, leadership
Margadarshak Mandalam, a body of Hindu ascetics, accuses Juna Akhara Mahamandaleshwar Swami Bharati of sidelining existing organisers and failing to maintain financial transparency
The burden of choice: when a plethora of options hinder both patients and doctors
More information doesnt automatically empower. True empowerment happens through shared decision-making, a genuine psychological partnership where clinical evidence meets a patients personal values and priorities
Real Madrid vs Sevilla: Mbappe double, Diomande heroics in Madrids win ahead of El Clasico
Tracking down the three unidentified shooters remains the primary challenge for law enforcement agencies, and further investigation is underway, the police added.
At 17.1 degree Celsius, Delhi records this months coldest night so far
The IMD has forecast mainly clear skies during the day, with the maximum temperature likely to touch 32 degrees Celsius
Anbumani Ramadoss undergoes elective knee procedure
As per a medical bulletin, Dr. Ramadoss underwent the procedure at Chennais Apollo Hospitals, Greams Road
Congress says ex-MLA pressured to join BJP, refused after Rahul Gandhis intervention
The Congress said former MLA Rahul Bondre was being targeted with police notices over his educational institution in Chikhli after he declined to switch sides
Watch: Repentance of a Death Row Convict
Watch: From Farm Lands to Government Jobs
Police raid ganja farm in Belagavi, arrest farmer
The cannabis had a total weight of 202.75 kg and had a total value of 1,01,37,500
Tamil Nadu Reviews Monsoon Preparedness as IMD Warns of Heavy Rain
The IMD has issued a very heavy rainfall warning for isolated places across the region from October 19 to October 21
Tamil Nadu health minister reviews monsoon preparedness amid heavy rainfall warnings
The News Mill
TN BJP chief alleges religious discrimination in two schools, demands action
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 19 (IANS) Tamil Nadu BJP president Nainar Nagenthran has demanded criminal action against the heads of two schools in Thoothukudi and Kanyakumari districts, alleging that students were subjected to religious discrimination for observing Hindu customs. In a post on X, Nagenthran referred to incidents in Athur in Thoothukudi district and Thakkalai in Kanyakumari district, accusing the government led by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay of failing to protect students religious identities and freedom of worship. According to his post, the headmaster of a school in Athur allegedly ordered the removal of religious garlands worn by more than 30 students observing a fast for Dasara. He also alleged that the incident involved an assault. The post did not provide details about the alleged assault. In the second incident, Nagenthran claimed that a headmistress in Thakkalai had instructed a Class 10 girl to conceal the bangles she was wearing. He described both episodes as disturbing examples of interference with students religious and cultural practices. The BJP leader argued that actions of this nature could hurt children during their formative years and undermine their sense of identity. He characterised the alleged incidents as violations of human rights and called for immediate accountability from the school authorities. Nagenthran further alleged that instances of religious suppression had increased since the Vijay government assumed office. He accused ministers of displaying religious partiality and claimed that such conduct had encouraged school administrations to act similarly. His post did not offer evidence to substantiate the allegation of an increase in such incidents. Educational institutions should promote equality and religious harmony, he said, adding that schools must respect students identities and their right to worship. He urged the government to ensure that institutions did not become places where children belonging to a particular religion felt their beliefs were being targeted. Calling for criminal proceedings against the school heads involved in the Athur and Thakkalai incidents, Nagenthran demanded that the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam government and its ministers end what he described as a one-sided religious approach.
How Keralam can overcome its legacy infrastructure deficit
The accumulated gap cannot be overcome within a reasonable time frame by budgetary resources alone, says T.M. Thomas Isaac, former Finance Minister of Keralam, underscoring the importance of a mechanism like KIIFB for the State
Putin proposes summit with Trump and Xi to discuss Ukraine deal: report
The proposed summit comes amid warming ties between Mr. Trump and Mr. Putin especially after the U.S. President announced a deal to buy Russian diesel
The 'Spiral Campaign': Denmarks forced contraception case of Inuit women | Explained
Thousands of Greenlandic Inuit women and girls were fitted with IUDs without their consent between the 1960s and 1990s, in a birth-control programme reportedly aimed at controlling the islands population; decades later, Denmark has apologised and approved compensation for the historic wrong, while questions of accountability, colonialism and human rights violations remain unresolved
Delhi to see cool morning, clear skies; IMD forecasts rain in South India
Delhi is forecast to remain dry with a maximum temperature of around 32C on Monday, while Tamil Nadu, Kerala and parts of Karnataka are likely to receive heavy rain
Beijings population expected to become super-aged by 2035
Chinese policymakers have made population planning a key part of the countrys economic strategy
Arrived for the Golconda St. Leger
Grass fire at Canadian military base kills 4 soldiers, critically injures 19 other people
The fire crossed established firebreaks before being contained with help from municipal firefighters.
Teja Singh Samundris legacy takes centre stage in BJPs pro-Sikh push in Punjab
As the centenary of his martyrdom is being observed this year, the BJPs top leadership, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, have frequently invoked Samundris legacy at public rallies
Chennai rain: Chennai received 10.5 cm of rain in 24 hours, with Parrys recording 36.3 cm as flooding affected parts of north Chennai and Velachery. The IMD has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal until October 21, with rain likely to continue through October 24.
The trouble with wearing your health on your finger
Ouras new GLP-1 features promise to keep pace with a changing body. My increasingly loose ring suggests the company has more to consider
World Students Day: Honouring Abdul Kalam through lessons for student life
World Students Day is observed on October 15 to honour Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalams legacy. This year, The Hindu Teen Digest editorial team shares insights from their own experiences across culture, sports, and academics to illuminate why student life matters and what it teaches for the future.
Tiger Shroff shoot-out: We will respond to them in their own language, says DCM Ekanth Shinde
Recalling the era of 1990s when gang wars had led to bloodbath on the streets of Mumbai, Mr. Shinde said that the Mumbai Police had even then reigned in on such forces
Watch: Caring for your eyes | Health Wrap | Episode 55
Scholarships: October 17, 2026
Information on financial aid for students
Kuldeep has been treated unfairly, feels Ashwin
Kanthapuram faction to protest against lack of representation in Keralam Waqf Board
Kerala Muslim Jamaath claims that justice has been denied to their Sunni faction, which manages a significant portion of Waqf properties across Keralam
Keralams Waqf board chairperson terms Centres mandate on non-Muslim members anti-Muslim
Newly appointed chairperson M.C. Mayin Haji says his immediate priority is to resolve the 600-odd cases pending before the board. He says he intends to revive the boards welfare activities that have declined due to reduced grants

