Amid rough seas, strong winds, poor visibility and darkness, Indian Coast Guard(ICG) Ship Sachet rescued six fishermen from their vessel, Indian Fishing Boat Manju Matha, which had suffered hull damage and severe flooding. The rescue was carried out during the evening hours on Monday (29th June), about 33 nautical miles (61 kms) off Surathkal coast, Mangaluru, India's southwest coast.According to the Indian Coast Guard, they intercepted a distress call over the Very High Frequency Radio Transmission at around 4 pm. Despite the adverse sea conditions and the active southwest monsoon, the ICG immediately diverted its ship Sachet to render assistance, and reached the distressed vessel within 90 minutes.Given the challenging conditions at sea, the crew of ICG Ship Sachet decided to deploy remotely-operated lifebuoys. These are floatation devices that can be dropped into the sea, and then remotely controlled and steered towards distressed persons adrift at sea. Once the distressed person makes contact with the remotely operated buoy and holds on to it, the buoy can be remotely steered back to the mother ship. For similar operations during better weather conditions, the ICG also deploys drones from their ships to carry conventional floatation devices or lifebuoys to distressed people at sea, following which they are rescued and brought aboard the ship.ICG said that all fishers from the distressed vessel were rescued safely and without injury by 6pm, Monday. Following the successful recovery, ICGS Sachet is presently entering New Mangalore for the safe disembarkation of the rescued crew and the completion of further formalities."The operation stands as a testament to the Indian Coast Guard’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding life at sea. It highlights the effective integration of modern technology with the courage, training, and professionalism of Coast Guard personnel in overcoming the most demanding maritime emergencies. The Indian Coast Guard remains steadfast in its motto, “Vayam Rakshamah” (We Protect), continuing to maintain constant vigil over India’s maritime domain and ensuring timely assistance to those in distress at sea," ICG added.&nbsp;

According to the Indian Coast Guard, they intercepted a distress call over the Very High Frequency Radio Transmission at around 4 pm. Despite the adverse sea conditions and the active southwest monsoon, the ICG immediately diverted its ship Sachet to render assistance.

Amid rough seas, strong winds, poor visibility and darkness, Indian Coast Guard(ICG) Ship Sachet rescued six fishermen from their vessel, Indian Fishing Boat Manju Matha, which had suffered hull damage and severe flooding. The rescue was carried out during the evening hours on Monday (29th June), about 33 nautical miles (61 kms) off Surathkal coast, Mangaluru, India's southwest coast. According to the Indian Coast Guard, they intercepted a distress call over the Very High Frequency Radio Transmission at around 4 pm. Despite the adverse sea conditions and the active southwest monsoon, the ICG immediately diverted its ship Sachet to render assistance, and reached the distressed vessel within 90 minutes. Given the challenging conditions at sea, the crew of ICG Ship Sachet decided to deploy remotely-operated lifebuoys. These are floatation devices that can be dropped into the sea, and then remotely controlled and steered towards distressed persons adrift at sea. Once the distressed person makes contact with the remotely operated buoy and holds on to it, the buoy can be remotely steered back to the mother ship. For similar operations during better weather conditions, the ICG also deploys drones from their ships to carry conventional floatation devices or lifebuoys to distressed people at sea, following which they are rescued and brought aboard the ship. ICG said that all fishers from the distressed vessel were rescued safely and without injury by 6pm, Monday. Following the successful recovery, ICGS Sachet is presently entering New Mangalore for the safe disembarkation of the rescued crew and the completion of further formalities. "The operation stands as a testament to the Indian Coast Guard’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding life at sea. It highlights the effective integration of modern technology with the courage, training, and professionalism of Coast Guard personnel in overcoming the most demanding maritime emergencies. The Indian Coast Guard remains steadfast in its motto, “Vayam Rakshamah” (We Protect), continuing to maintain constant vigil over India’s maritime domain and ensuring timely assistance to those in distress at sea," ICG added.

According to the Indian Coast Guard, they intercepted a distress call over the Very High Frequency Radio Transmission at around 4 pm. Despite the adverse sea conditions and the active southwest monsoon, the ICG immediately diverted its ship Sachet to render assistance.

Amid rough seas, Indian Coast Guard rescues 6 fishers off Mangaluru using remote-controlled buoys

Barely two months after witnessing one of its worst results in the Tamil Nadu Assembly polls, the AIADMK—the third-largest party in the state assembly—is bleeding elected representatives. On Monday (June 29), senior AIADMK leader and former Minister M.R. Vijayabhaskar met Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker J.C.D. Prabhakar at his office in Chennai and tendered his resignation. The Speaker accepted the resignation, making it the sixth exit of an AIADMK legislator in recent weeks. While the AIADMK secured 47 seats in the 234-seat assembly, the ongoing exodus of its MLAs has brought its strength down to 41.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-govt-to-set-up-two-fast-breeder-nuclear-reactors-in-tamil-nadu-1782578270016">Indian Govt to set up two fast breeder nuclear reactors in Tamil Nadu</a>&nbsp;The successive exits come during a period of intense churning within the 54-year-old party and growing differences between influential state leaders and party chief Edappadi K. Palaniswami. Primarily, the internal rift centres on whether the party should support Chief Minister Vijay’s government. This remains a crucial issue, given that Vijay’s party emerged as the single largest entity but lacked the required numbers to form a majority on its own. The AIADMK MLAs who violated the party diktat by voting in favour of Vijay's government during the assembly floor test were subsequently ousted from their district-level party positions. Even after a recent patch-up with the leadership, they have not been reinstated to their party posts.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vijay-s-jana-nayagan-movie-producer-appointed-to-govt-post-row-erupts-1782490768156">Vijay’s ‘Jana Nayagan’ movie producer appointed to govt post; row erupts</a>&nbsp;Four AIADMK MLAs who resigned from office and quit the party last month have already joined the ruling TVK. Last week, another former AIADMK minister, C. Vijayabaskar, also resigned from his assembly seat. Speculation is growing that both C. Vijayabaskar and M.R. Vijayabhaskar will officially join the TVK at an event in Chennai this week. While the AIADMK and the DMK have accused Vijay’s TVK of horse-trading, the ruling party maintains that the MLAs are quitting voluntarily due to deep dissatisfaction with the AIADMK leadership.<h2>Bypolls for 7 Assembly seats to be conducted in Tamil Nadu</h2>&nbsp;With six AIADMK MLAs having resigned and Chief Minister Vijay vacating one of the two seats he won, bypolls are now due across seven assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu. These bypolls are widely perceived as a major opportunity for the ruling TVK to increase its independent strength in the 234-seat house, where 118 legislators are required for a majority. Currently, the TVK has 107 MLAs of its own, backed by allies Congress (5 MLAs), IUML (2 MLAs), and VCK (2 MLAs), along with external support from the CPI and CPI(M), which hold two MLAs each.

The internal crisis within the AIADMK deepens as former minister M R Vijayabhaskar becomes the sixth MLA to resign from the Tamil Nadu Assembly, amidst an ongoing exodus of legislators to the ruling TVK.

Barely two months after witnessing one of its worst results in the Tamil Nadu Assembly polls, the AIADMK—the third-largest party in the state assembly—is bleeding elected representatives. On Monday (June 29), senior AIADMK leader and former Minister M.R. Vijayabhaskar met Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker J.C.D. Prabhakar at his office in Chennai and tendered his resignation. The Speaker accepted the resignation, making it the sixth exit of an AIADMK legislator in recent weeks. While the AIADMK secured 47 seats in the 234-seat assembly, the ongoing exodus of its MLAs has brought its strength down to 41. Also read: Indian Govt to set up two fast breeder nuclear reactors in Tamil Nadu The successive exits come during a period of intense churning within the 54-year-old party and growing differences between influential state leaders and party chief Edappadi K. Palaniswami. Primarily, the internal rift centres on whether the party should support Chief Minister Vijay’s government. This remains a crucial issue, given that Vijay’s party emerged as the single largest entity but lacked the required numbers to form a majority on its own. The AIADMK MLAs who violated the party diktat by voting in favour of Vijay's government during the assembly floor test were subsequently ousted from their district-level party positions. Even after a recent patch-up with the leadership, they have not been reinstated to their party posts. Also read: Vijay’s ‘Jana Nayagan’ movie producer appointed to govt post; row erupts Four AIADMK MLAs who resigned from office and quit the party last month have already joined the ruling TVK. Last week, another former AIADMK minister, C. Vijayabaskar, also resigned from his assembly seat. Speculation is growing that both C. Vijayabaskar and M.R. Vijayabhaskar will officially join the TVK at an event in Chennai this week. While the AIADMK and the DMK have accused Vijay’s TVK of horse-trading, the ruling party maintains that the MLAs are quitting voluntarily due to deep dissatisfaction with the AIADMK leadership. Bypolls for 7 Assembly seats to be conducted in Tamil Nadu With six AIADMK MLAs having resigned and Chief Minister Vijay vacating one of the two seats he won, bypolls are now due across seven assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu. These bypolls are widely perceived as a major opportunity for the ruling TVK to increase its independent strength in the 234-seat house, where 118 legislators are required for a majority. Currently, the TVK has 107 MLAs of its own, backed by allies Congress (5 MLAs), IUML (2 MLAs), and VCK (2 MLAs), along with external support from the CPI and CPI(M), which hold two MLAs each.

The internal crisis within the AIADMK deepens as former minister M R Vijayabhaskar becomes the sixth MLA to resign from the Tamil Nadu Assembly, amidst an ongoing exodus of legislators to the ruling TVK.

Tamil Nadu: Exodus of AIADMK MLAs continues; 6th MLA quits

Indian government firm Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited (BHAVINI), which operates under the country's Department of Atomic Energy(DAE), said that pre-project activities are already underway for establishing a twin-unit Nuclear Fast Breeder Reactor project adjacent to the present Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor(PFBR) at Kalpakkam, near Chennai in Southern India. In the long term, BHAVINI plans a phased, nationwide deployment of additional fast reactors, supported by ongoing site identification and preparatory assessments. This announcement comes two months after India's 500 Megawatt PFBR successfully attained first criticality in April 2026. In simple terms, first criticality is the start of a controlled fission chain reaction, which is the first step towards generating heat and electricity. In due course, the power generated by the PFBR will be injected into the power grid.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/what-is-egocentric-data-will-india-become-world-s-back-office-for-egocentric-data-collection-is-it-a-good-thing-or-a-bad-thing-ai-news-1782557512455">Will india become the back office of egocentric data collection for the world?</a>This announcement comes after Dr AK Mohanty, Chairman, Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) and Secretary, Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), visited the PFBR to review the critical technical milestones. Accompanied by Suresh Babu, Chairman &amp; Managing Director BHAVINI, and senior officials, Dr Mohanty assessed the plant’s present status. The review focused on ongoing low-power physics experiments and the overhauling of the Turbine Generator (TG) system. The TG overhauling is being executed by its Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL).A turbine generator converts the immense thermal energy generated by a Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR) into usable electricity for the power grid. As the nuclear reactor's core generates heat, it boils water into high-pressure steam, which then physically spins the turbine to drive the generator.<h2>What is India's three-stage Nuclear programme?</h2>India’s 3-stage nuclear programme is a sequential strategy to convert uranium into plutonium and finally utilise thorium for generating sustainable nuclear energy.In the first stage, Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) use natural Uranium to generate electricity and produce Plutonium-239 as a by-product. At present, India has about two dozen PHWR Nuclear power plants, which contribute about 3percent of India's total power generation.The second stage employs Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs), which use Plutonium(by-product from the first stage) to generate more fissile material, while converting Thorium into Uranium-233.In the third stage, advanced reactors utilise Uranium-233 along with Thorium to produce sustainable nuclear energy.In simple terms, India's Fast Breeder Reactor technology forms the vital bridge between the current fleet of pressurised heavy water reactors and the future deployment of Thorium-based reactors.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/world-msme-day-how-women-entrepreneurs-are-building-businesses-beyond-their-hometowns-1782541660673">World MSME Day: How women entrepreneurs are building businesses beyond hometowns</a>This long-term strategy is particularly suited to India, which possesses minimal Uranium reserves but one of the world’s largest Thorium reserves. While the first stage is fully operational, the second stage has just begun and has a long way to go, while the third stage remains in the research phase.<h2>India's goal to expand its nuclear power generation capacity</h2>At present, India has the capacity to generate about 8,780 megawatts of Nuclear energy from over two dozen facilities across the country. India's Nuclear power generation capacity is expected to increase to 22,380 MW by 2031-32 on progressive completion of projects under implementation, as per Government data. &nbsp;

Following India’s 500 MW Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor achieving first criticality, BHAVINI has initiated pre-project work for an adjacent twin-unit nuclear expansion at Kalpakkam to scale nationwide atomic power.

Indian government firm Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited (BHAVINI), which operates under the country's Department of Atomic Energy(DAE), said that pre-project activities are already underway for establishing a twin-unit Nuclear Fast Breeder Reactor project adjacent to the present Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor(PFBR) at Kalpakkam, near Chennai in Southern India. In the long term, BHAVINI plans a phased, nationwide deployment of additional fast reactors, supported by ongoing site identification and preparatory assessments. This announcement comes two months after India's 500 Megawatt PFBR successfully attained first criticality in April 2026. In simple terms, first criticality is the start of a controlled fission chain reaction, which is the first step towards generating heat and electricity. In due course, the power generated by the PFBR will be injected into the power grid. Also read: Will india become the back office of egocentric data collection for the world? This announcement comes after Dr AK Mohanty, Chairman, Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) and Secretary, Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), visited the PFBR to review the critical technical milestones. Accompanied by Suresh Babu, Chairman & Managing Director BHAVINI, and senior officials, Dr Mohanty assessed the plant’s present status. The review focused on ongoing low-power physics experiments and the overhauling of the Turbine Generator (TG) system. The TG overhauling is being executed by its Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL). A turbine generator converts the immense thermal energy generated by a Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR) into usable electricity for the power grid. As the nuclear reactor's core generates heat, it boils water into high-pressure steam, which then physically spins the turbine to drive the generator. What is India's three-stage Nuclear programme? India’s 3-stage nuclear programme is a sequential strategy to convert uranium into plutonium and finally utilise thorium for generating sustainable nuclear energy. In the first stage, Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) use natural Uranium to generate electricity and produce Plutonium-239 as a by-product. At present, India has about two dozen PHWR Nuclear power plants, which contribute about 3percent of India's total power generation. The second stage employs Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs), which use Plutonium(by-product from the first stage) to generate more fissile material, while converting Thorium into Uranium-233. In the third stage, advanced reactors utilise Uranium-233 along with Thorium to produce sustainable nuclear energy. In simple terms, India's Fast Breeder Reactor technology forms the vital bridge between the current fleet of pressurised heavy water reactors and the future deployment of Thorium-based reactors. Also read: World MSME Day: How women entrepreneurs are building businesses beyond hometowns This long-term strategy is particularly suited to India, which possesses minimal Uranium reserves but one of the world’s largest Thorium reserves. While the first stage is fully operational, the second stage has just begun and has a long way to go, while the third stage remains in the research phase. India's goal to expand its nuclear power generation capacity At present, India has the capacity to generate about 8,780 megawatts of Nuclear energy from over two dozen facilities across the country. India's Nuclear power generation capacity is expected to increase to 22,380 MW by 2031-32 on progressive completion of projects under implementation, as per Government data.

Following India’s 500 MW Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor achieving first criticality, BHAVINI has initiated pre-project work for an adjacent twin-unit nuclear expansion at Kalpakkam to scale nationwide atomic power.

Indian Govt to set up two fast breeder nuclear reactors in Tamil Nadu

The Indian space agency ISRO announced that it successfully conducted the eighth test firing of the Power Head Test Article(PHTA), which comprises the critical power-generating section of the Semi-cryogenic rocket engine that it is building. This effort marks incremental progress in its decades-long effort to build a semi-cryogenic rocket engine, one that is powered by Kerosene(stored at room temperature) and super-cooled liquid oxygen. Meant to deliver 200-tons of thrust, this 'SE2000' engine would potentially offer a major upgrade compared to the 80-ton Indo-French Vikas engine which is the mainstay of Indian spacefaring rockets.&nbsp;&nbsp;While the previous test firings of the PHTA were carried out at 47% (94-ton) and 60% (120-ton) thrust levels, ISRO said that the latest test firing was conducted at 175-ton thrust level (88%), and it also demonstrated successful operation of main turbopumps delivering 400 and 500 bar outlet pressures. Interestingly, ISRO did not reveal for how long this latest test firing was conducted.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-to-be-slammed-by-ripples-of-a-supermassive-black-hole-collision-unfolding-in-our-backyard-1782471841766">Two supermassive black holes will collide by the year 2125, and Earth will feel it</a>&nbsp;Earlier tests lasted less than five seconds, ISRO data shows. Typically, a semi-cryogenic rocket engine has to function for 120 to 260 seconds and demonstrate its performance in ground testing, before it is ready for an actual flight.&nbsp;Further, ISRO elaborated that the test proceeded as predicted and all the engine parameters were as expected. This test has provided sufficient confidence towards the demonstration of steady state performance of engine powerhead at 200 tonne (100%) thrust level and also achieved a major milestone in the indigenous development of Semicryogenic engine.&nbsp;Though the PHTA test at 88% thrust is a milestone in a decades-long effort, ISRO is still years away from having a flight-ready Semi-cryogenic engine. ISRO intends to use the Semi-Cryogenic Propulsion Stage (SC120), powered by the under-development 'SE2000' engine to replace the current L110 core stage of the LVM3 launch vehicle. This upgrade is expected to substantially increase the payload capacity while enhancing operational efficiency of In dia's most powerful launch vehicle.&nbsp;<h2>ISRO is also working on procuring a Russian rocket engine</h2>&nbsp;While efforts are on to develop its own semi-cryogenic engine, ISRO is looking to procure a Russian Semi-cryogenic rocket engine to meet its mission requirements of the near future. In its Annual report for 2025-26, ISRO revealed that its officials visited Moscow for technical discussions with&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;Space agency Roscosmos on the delivery of semi-cryogenic&nbsp;rocket&nbsp;engines; the draft contract is currently under the approval process, ISRO added.&nbsp;&nbsp;This is the first publicly available ISRO document that refers to the long-drawn process for procuring high-thrust&nbsp;rocket&nbsp;engines from Russia to enhance India's&nbsp;rocketry muscle power for lifting heavier payloads into space.&nbsp;&nbsp;Recently, a&nbsp;report by India's Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology stated that&nbsp;ISRO&nbsp;has been allocated funds in 2026-27 for the "Induction of procured&nbsp;Semi-cryogenic&nbsp;engine&nbsp;towards expediting the enhancement of LVM3 launch vehicle payload capability."&nbsp; &nbsp;

 This test has provided sufficient confidence towards the demonstration of steady state performance of engine powerhead at 200 tonne (100%) thrust level and also achieved a major milestone in the indigenous development of Semicryogenic engine.

The Indian space agency ISRO announced that it successfully conducted the eighth test firing of the Power Head Test Article(PHTA), which comprises the critical power-generating section of the Semi-cryogenic rocket engine that it is building. This effort marks incremental progress in its decades-long effort to build a semi-cryogenic rocket engine, one that is powered by Kerosene(stored at room temperature) and super-cooled liquid oxygen. Meant to deliver 200-tons of thrust, this 'SE2000' engine would potentially offer a major upgrade compared to the 80-ton Indo-French Vikas engine which is the mainstay of Indian spacefaring rockets. While the previous test firings of the PHTA were carried out at 47% (94-ton) and 60% (120-ton) thrust levels, ISRO said that the latest test firing was conducted at 175-ton thrust level (88%), and it also demonstrated successful operation of main turbopumps delivering 400 and 500 bar outlet pressures. Interestingly, ISRO did not reveal for how long this latest test firing was conducted. ALSO READ: Two supermassive black holes will collide by the year 2125, and Earth will feel it Earlier tests lasted less than five seconds, ISRO data shows. Typically, a semi-cryogenic rocket engine has to function for 120 to 260 seconds and demonstrate its performance in ground testing, before it is ready for an actual flight. Further, ISRO elaborated that the test proceeded as predicted and all the engine parameters were as expected. This test has provided sufficient confidence towards the demonstration of steady state performance of engine powerhead at 200 tonne (100%) thrust level and also achieved a major milestone in the indigenous development of Semicryogenic engine. Though the PHTA test at 88% thrust is a milestone in a decades-long effort, ISRO is still years away from having a flight-ready Semi-cryogenic engine. ISRO intends to use the Semi-Cryogenic Propulsion Stage (SC120), powered by the under-development 'SE2000' engine to replace the current L110 core stage of the LVM3 launch vehicle. This upgrade is expected to substantially increase the payload capacity while enhancing operational efficiency of In dia's most powerful launch vehicle. ISRO is also working on procuring a Russian rocket engine While efforts are on to develop its own semi-cryogenic engine, ISRO is looking to procure a Russian Semi-cryogenic rocket engine to meet its mission requirements of the near future. In its Annual report for 2025-26, ISRO revealed that its officials visited Moscow for technical discussions with Russian Space agency Roscosmos on the delivery of semi-cryogenic rocket engines; the draft contract is currently under the approval process, ISRO added. This is the first publicly available ISRO document that refers to the long-drawn process for procuring high-thrust rocket engines from Russia to enhance India's rocketry muscle power for lifting heavier payloads into space. Recently, a report by India's Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology stated that ISRO has been allocated funds in 2026-27 for the "Induction of procured Semi-cryogenic engine towards expediting the enhancement of LVM3 launch vehicle payload capability."

&nbsp;This test has provided sufficient confidence towards the demonstration of steady state performance of engine powerhead at 200 tonne (100%) thrust level and also achieved a major milestone in the indigenous development of Semicryogenic engine.

ISRO makes progress in Semi-cryo engine development; 8th test firing done

An old video of Tamil Nadu’s Human Resources Minister D Sarath Kumar carefully handling a white powdery substance spread on the screen of a smartphone, using a payment card and a currency note, has gone viral. It was a coincidence that the old video went viral on the International Day Against Drug Abuse, when Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay flagged off and took part in a marathon to create awareness against abuse of drugs and narcotics substances. With serious allegations of drug abuse being made against him, Minister Sarath Kumar clarified that the white powdery substance was a medicine meant for his ailing child.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-israel-lebanon-sign-trilateral-framework-agreement-after-fifth-round-of-talks-in-dc-1782498292166">US, Israel, Lebanon sign trilateral framework agreement after fifth round of talks in DC</a>&nbsp;Confirming that the video featured him, Minister Sarath Kumar said that it was from an IPL cricket match that he witnessed in the stadium along with his family and friends, almost two years ago. Referring to the white powdery substance he is seen handling, he said that it was a medicine that he was preparing for his infant. He reasoned that the infant was not consuming the tablet, and that they had decided to crush the pill, mix it with water and then feed it to his child.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweden-s-minister-romina-pourmokhtari-brings-baby-to-eu-meeting-on-climate-1782494743205">Youngest delegate? Sweden’s minister Romina Pourmokhtari brings baby to EU meeting on climate</a>&nbsp;Further, he expressed sorrow that an old video was being used now to make wrongful allegations of drug abuse against him. He also queried how narcotics substances could be used out in the open in a cricket stadium that is under police protection, in a stand where thousands of spectators are gathered.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/very-strong-nuclear-verification-needed-in-iran-after-war-says-iaea-chief-rafael-grossi-1782488144019">‘Intentions not enough, very strong nuclear verification needed in Iran after war,’ says IAEA chief Rafael Grossi</a>&nbsp;“Minister Sarath has clarified that, it’s him in the video at Chepauk Stadium. We welcome that, now there’s no modicum of doubt regarding the identity. The Minister has also given an explanation that he was crushing tablets for his toddler. The only troubling aspect is that the minister’s action is eerily similar to how people snort drugs. CM Mr. Vijay is already on a warpath against drug menace. Isn’t his duty to clarify the doubt that’s cast upon his minister. The people of TN should not be left in a lingering doubt about the integrity of Mr. Sarath. In all fairness Mr. Vijay should order an investigation by a high-ranking police official, preferably from another state,” said Saravanan, a spokesperson of Tamil Nadu’s principal opposition party, the DMK.

Minister Sarath Kumar confirmed that the video featured him and said it was from an IPL cricket match that he witnessed in stadium with his family and friends almost two years ago. Referring to the white powdery substance, he said that it was a medicine that he was preparing for his infant.

An old video of Tamil Nadu’s Human Resources Minister D Sarath Kumar carefully handling a white powdery substance spread on the screen of a smartphone, using a payment card and a currency note, has gone viral. It was a coincidence that the old video went viral on the International Day Against Drug Abuse, when Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay flagged off and took part in a marathon to create awareness against abuse of drugs and narcotics substances. With serious allegations of drug abuse being made against him, Minister Sarath Kumar clarified that the white powdery substance was a medicine meant for his ailing child. Also Read: US, Israel, Lebanon sign trilateral framework agreement after fifth round of talks in DC Confirming that the video featured him, Minister Sarath Kumar said that it was from an IPL cricket match that he witnessed in the stadium along with his family and friends, almost two years ago. Referring to the white powdery substance he is seen handling, he said that it was a medicine that he was preparing for his infant. He reasoned that the infant was not consuming the tablet, and that they had decided to crush the pill, mix it with water and then feed it to his child. Also Read: Youngest delegate? Sweden’s minister Romina Pourmokhtari brings baby to EU meeting on climate Further, he expressed sorrow that an old video was being used now to make wrongful allegations of drug abuse against him. He also queried how narcotics substances could be used out in the open in a cricket stadium that is under police protection, in a stand where thousands of spectators are gathered. Also Read: ‘Intentions not enough, very strong nuclear verification needed in Iran after war,’ says IAEA chief Rafael Grossi “Minister Sarath has clarified that, it’s him in the video at Chepauk Stadium. We welcome that, now there’s no modicum of doubt regarding the identity. The Minister has also given an explanation that he was crushing tablets for his toddler. The only troubling aspect is that the minister’s action is eerily similar to how people snort drugs. CM Mr. Vijay is already on a warpath against drug menace. Isn’t his duty to clarify the doubt that’s cast upon his minister. The people of TN should not be left in a lingering doubt about the integrity of Mr. Sarath. In all fairness Mr. Vijay should order an investigation by a high-ranking police official, preferably from another state,” said Saravanan, a spokesperson of Tamil Nadu’s principal opposition party, the DMK.

Minister Sarath Kumar confirmed that the video featured him and said it was from an IPL cricket match that he witnessed in stadium with his family and friends almost two years ago. Referring to the white powdery substance, he said that it was a medicine that he was preparing for his infant.

'It was baby medicine': Tamil Nadu minister responds to viral video and drug use allegations

A fresh political row has erupted in Tamil Nadu after the producer of Chief Minister Vijay’s unreleased movie ‘Jana Nayagan’ has been appointed to a government post. “Sanction is accorded for the creation of a temporary post of Special Representative to the Government of Tamil Nadu at New Delhi for a period of one year with effect from the date on which the appointee takes charge or till the need for it ceases, whichever is earlier. Venkata Narayana K is appointed as Special Representative to the Government of Tamil Nadu at New Delhi,’ read the government order signed by Tamil Nadu’s top bureaucrat, Chief Secretary M Sai Kumar.&nbsp;The exact terms and conditions pertaining to this appointment were not mentioned in the order. Instead, it said that the terms and conditions would be issued separately.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/very-strong-nuclear-verification-needed-in-iran-after-war-says-iaea-chief-rafael-grossi-1782488144019">‘Intentions not enough, very strong nuclear verification needed in Iran after war,’ says IAEA chief Rafael Grossi</a>&nbsp;Touted as actor-politician Vijay’s farewell film, ‘Jana Nayagan’ was meant to hit the screens in January 2026, but the release was stalled owing to troubles with the Censor board, which later led to a court battle. Amid the delay in getting the estimated Rs 500 crore film released, it was also leaked online in full, which led police to make multiple arrests. ‘Jana Nayagan’ was produced by Venkat Narayana’s KVN Productions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">கர்நாடக காங்கிரஸ் அரசின் Proxy Government-ஆக செயல்படுகிறதா தமிழகத்தில் உள்ள <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/%E0%AE%AA%E0%AF%8A%E0%AE%AF%E0%AF%8D%E0%AE%95%E0%AF%8D%E0%AE%95%E0%AE%BE%E0%AE%B2%E0%AF%8D_%E0%AE%95%E0%AF%81%E0%AE%A4%E0%AE%BF%E0%AE%B0%E0%AF%88_%E0%AE%85%E0%AE%B0%E0%AE%9A%E0%AF%81?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#பொய்க்கால்_குதிரை_அரசு</a>? தமிழ்நாட்டைச் சாராத, கர்நாடக மாநிலத்தைச் சேர்ந்த திரைப்பட தயாரிப்பாளரை தமிழக அரசின் டெல்லி சிறப்புப் பிரதிநிதியாக நியமித்தது ஏன்? உங்கள் வெளிவராத படத்தின் தயாரிப்பாளர் என்ற… <a href="https://t.co/NorupZ9KE1">pic.twitter.com/NorupZ9KE1</a>&mdash; AIADMK IT WING (@AIADMKITWINGOFL) <a href="https://x.com/AIADMKITWINGOFL/status/2070493042986168734?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-twin-quakes-toll-climbs-to-589-thousands-missing-us-temporarily-removes-sanctions-on-caracas-1782482230379">Venezuela twin quakes toll climbs to 589, thousands missing; US temporarily lifts sanctions on Caracas</a>&nbsp;Sharing a copy of the government order pertaining to the film producer’s appointment to a government role, Opposition party AIADMK questioned if the Tamil Nadu government was functioning as a proxy of the Congress government in Karnataka. “Why is a filmmaker from Karnataka, who is not connected to Tamil Nadu, being appointed as the Tamil Nadu government’s Special Representative in Delhi? Is the credential of being the producer of your unreleased film adequate,” the AIADMK asked Chief Minister Vijay in a social media post.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/zero-tolerance-for-any-attempt-to-exploit-sanatan-faith-of-devotees-says-cm-yogi-after-arrests-in-ram-temple-donation-theft-case-1782473006937">‘Zero tolerance for any attempt to exploit Sanatan, faith of devotees,’ says CM Yogi after arrests in Ram temple donation theft case</a>&nbsp;The AIADMK further lashed out at Vijay by mentioning that this move to appoint the film producer to the government role comes at a time when there are differences between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka governments over the latter’s intention to construct a dam at Mekedatu, which the Tamil Nadu government and opposition parties oppose unanimously.&nbsp;Shortly after assuming office in May, Chief Minister Vijay drew flak for appointing his personal astrologer to a government post. Later, that appointment was withdrawn after it faced widespread criticism from opposition parties and the allies in Vijay’s coalition government.

Sharing a copy of the government order pertaining to the film producer’s appointment to a government role, Opposition party AIADMK questioned whether the Tamil Nadu government was functioning as a proxy of the Congress government in Karnataka.

A fresh political row has erupted in Tamil Nadu after the producer of Chief Minister Vijay’s unreleased movie ‘Jana Nayagan’ has been appointed to a government post. “Sanction is accorded for the creation of a temporary post of Special Representative to the Government of Tamil Nadu at New Delhi for a period of one year with effect from the date on which the appointee takes charge or till the need for it ceases, whichever is earlier. Venkata Narayana K is appointed as Special Representative to the Government of Tamil Nadu at New Delhi,’ read the government order signed by Tamil Nadu’s top bureaucrat, Chief Secretary M Sai Kumar. The exact terms and conditions pertaining to this appointment were not mentioned in the order. Instead, it said that the terms and conditions would be issued separately. Also Read: ‘Intentions not enough, very strong nuclear verification needed in Iran after war,’ says IAEA chief Rafael Grossi Touted as actor-politician Vijay’s farewell film, ‘Jana Nayagan’ was meant to hit the screens in January 2026, but the release was stalled owing to troubles with the Censor board, which later led to a court battle. Amid the delay in getting the estimated Rs 500 crore film released, it was also leaked online in full, which led police to make multiple arrests. ‘Jana Nayagan’ was produced by Venkat Narayana’s KVN Productions.

Sharing a copy of the government order pertaining to the film producer’s appointment to a government role, Opposition party AIADMK questioned whether the Tamil Nadu government was functioning as a proxy of the Congress government in Karnataka.

Vijay’s ‘Jana Nayagan’ movie producer appointed to govt post; row erupts

Marking the 14th anniversary of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center (TECC) in the southern Indian city of Chennai, Director General Stephen Hsu highlighted that there are more than 300 Taiwanese companies operating across India, of which approximately 75 percent operate in South India, especially in the states Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The cumulative investments of these firms exceed $5.7 billion and they have created more than 214,000 employment opportunities, he added. Established in 2012, the TECC in Chennai serves as a de facto Taiwan Consulate and as an important bridge connecting Taiwan with five southern Indian states, three Indian Union Territories, and the island nation of Sri Lanka.&nbsp;Commemorating its anniversary, the TECC in Chennai unveiled a new official plaque on Thursday(25th June). The unveiling ceremony was jointly officiated by Stephen Hsu, Director General, TECC and Vijayakumar, Head of the Indian Ministry of External Affairs' Branch Secretariat in Chennai.&nbsp;Following the unveiling, Vijaykumar noted that India and Taiwan have shared close ties since 1995, with Taiwan’s New Southbound Policy and India’s Act East Policy have been complementing each other in fostering deeper economic, educational, cultural, and people-to-people exchanges. He also expressed his commitment to working closely with TECC in Chennai to further enhance bilateral cooperation and create new opportunities for engagement between India and Taiwan.&nbsp;In the event attended by individuals from government agencies, industry, academia, civil society, which also marked the completion of his first year in Chennai, Hsu pointed out that India-Taiwan trade increased from $10.6 billion in 2024 to a record US$12.5 billion in 2025.&nbsp;<h2>Taiwanese companies continue to expand their presence</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>Trade has continued to grow strongly in 2026, recording an increase of approximately 30 percent year-on-year to date, he revealed. Further, he emphasized that leading Taiwanese companies such as Foxconn, ADATA, KS Terminals, and Pou Chen Corporation continue to expand their presence in southern India, further strengthening Taiwan’s industrial footprint and contributing to India’s manufacturing and technology sectors.&nbsp;Outlining his vision for the years ahead, Stephen Hsu shared the slogan “Design from Taiwan, Make in Tamil Nadu”, which is a plan to unite Taiwan’s leadership in high technology, semiconductors, and innovation with Tamil Nadu’s growing strength in scalable manufacturing, industrial ecosystems, and export-driven production. "Building on shared democratic values, economic complementarities, technological innovation, and strong people-to-people ties, TECC in Chennai looks forward to working closely with the Government of Tamil Nadu under the leadership of Chief Minister Vijay and Governments across South India to advance this strong partnership in the years ahead," Hsu added. &nbsp;

Taiwanese companies exceed $5.7 billion in investments in India and they have created more than 214,000 employment opportunities.

Marking the 14th anniversary of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center (TECC) in the southern Indian city of Chennai, Director General Stephen Hsu highlighted that there are more than 300 Taiwanese companies operating across India, of which approximately 75 percent operate in South India, especially in the states Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The cumulative investments of these firms exceed $5.7 billion and they have created more than 214,000 employment opportunities, he added. Established in 2012, the TECC in Chennai serves as a de facto Taiwan Consulate and as an important bridge connecting Taiwan with five southern Indian states, three Indian Union Territories, and the island nation of Sri Lanka. Commemorating its anniversary, the TECC in Chennai unveiled a new official plaque on Thursday(25th June). The unveiling ceremony was jointly officiated by Stephen Hsu, Director General, TECC and Vijayakumar, Head of the Indian Ministry of External Affairs' Branch Secretariat in Chennai. Following the unveiling, Vijaykumar noted that India and Taiwan have shared close ties since 1995, with Taiwan’s New Southbound Policy and India’s Act East Policy have been complementing each other in fostering deeper economic, educational, cultural, and people-to-people exchanges. He also expressed his commitment to working closely with TECC in Chennai to further enhance bilateral cooperation and create new opportunities for engagement between India and Taiwan. In the event attended by individuals from government agencies, industry, academia, civil society, which also marked the completion of his first year in Chennai, Hsu pointed out that India-Taiwan trade increased from $10.6 billion in 2024 to a record US$12.5 billion in 2025. Taiwanese companies continue to expand their presence Trade has continued to grow strongly in 2026, recording an increase of approximately 30 percent year-on-year to date, he revealed. Further, he emphasized that leading Taiwanese companies such as Foxconn, ADATA, KS Terminals, and Pou Chen Corporation continue to expand their presence in southern India, further strengthening Taiwan’s industrial footprint and contributing to India’s manufacturing and technology sectors. Outlining his vision for the years ahead, Stephen Hsu shared the slogan “Design from Taiwan, Make in Tamil Nadu”, which is a plan to unite Taiwan’s leadership in high technology, semiconductors, and innovation with Tamil Nadu’s growing strength in scalable manufacturing, industrial ecosystems, and export-driven production. "Building on shared democratic values, economic complementarities, technological innovation, and strong people-to-people ties, TECC in Chennai looks forward to working closely with the Government of Tamil Nadu under the leadership of Chief Minister Vijay and Governments across South India to advance this strong partnership in the years ahead," Hsu added.

Taiwanese companies exceed $5.7 billion in investments in India and they have created more than 214,000 employment opportunities.

300 Taiwanese firms invested $5.7bn in India, generated 2.14lakh jobs: TECC

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay has written to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing deep concern regarding the Indian Government's proposed move to proceed with the disinvestment of its equity in Neyveli Lignite Corporation India Limited (NLC).&nbsp;&nbsp;Neyveli Lignite Corporation (known as NLC India Limited) is primarily owned by the Government of India, which holds a majority stake in the company through the Ministry of Coal. Established in 1956, NLC has been engaged in lignite mining and power generation, with its operations spreading throughout the country. NLC is headquartered at Neyveli in Cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu, where its principal lignite(brown coal) mining operations and its major lignite-based thermal power stations are located.&nbsp;Referring to the proposed Offer for Sale of up to 3% of the Indian Government's paid-up equity in NLC(comprising a base offer of 2% and an additional 1% green-shoe option), Chief Minister Vijay mentioned in his letter that the Government of Tamil Nadu strongly opposes, in principle, any further dilution of the Government of India’s equity in NLC. This issue is of special significance to Tamil Nadu, as NLC India is intrinsically linked to the State through its origin, growth and continuing operations.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/csis-highlights-canada-based-khalistani-extremists-role-in-1985-air-india-bombing-as-it-remembers-the-victims-1782401922981">CSIS highlights Canada-based Khalistani extremists’ role in 1985 Air India bombing as it remembers the victims</a>&nbsp;"The enterprise has been built over several decades on land acquired through the State machinery, supported by extensive administrative facilitation, infrastructure development, rehabilitation measures and the cooperation of the people of Tamil Nadu. The State, therefore, has a legitimate and enduring stake in the future of this strategically important public sector undertaking," the letter stated.&nbsp;Reiterating the state's stance, Vijay's letter stated that Tamil Nadu has consistently maintained that the Government of India’s shareholding in NLC India should not be reduced further. Citing that public sector enterprises of this nature, particularly those established and expanded with the sustained support of a host State over decades, should continue to remain firmly under effective Government ownership and control, Chief Minister Vijay requested the Government of India to reconsider its proposed disinvestment.&nbsp;CM Vijay's letter to the PM Modi comes after a similar letter was sent by DMK MP Kanimozhi to India's Minister for Coal and Mines, where she stated that the proposed stake sale has caused widespread concern among employees, trade unions, and the public. "I have urged the Union Government to withdraw the stake sale and take appropriate steps to safeguard the interests of all stakeholders, while protecting the strategic and public-sector character of NLC," the DMK Parliamentarian from Tamil Nadu had said. &nbsp;

Chief Minister Vijay mentioned in his letter that the Government of Tamil Nadu strongly opposes, in principle, any further dilution of the Government of India’s equity in NLC. 

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay has written to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing deep concern regarding the Indian Government's proposed move to proceed with the disinvestment of its equity in Neyveli Lignite Corporation India Limited (NLC). Neyveli Lignite Corporation (known as NLC India Limited) is primarily owned by the Government of India, which holds a majority stake in the company through the Ministry of Coal. Established in 1956, NLC has been engaged in lignite mining and power generation, with its operations spreading throughout the country. NLC is headquartered at Neyveli in Cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu, where its principal lignite(brown coal) mining operations and its major lignite-based thermal power stations are located. Referring to the proposed Offer for Sale of up to 3% of the Indian Government's paid-up equity in NLC(comprising a base offer of 2% and an additional 1% green-shoe option), Chief Minister Vijay mentioned in his letter that the Government of Tamil Nadu strongly opposes, in principle, any further dilution of the Government of India’s equity in NLC. This issue is of special significance to Tamil Nadu, as NLC India is intrinsically linked to the State through its origin, growth and continuing operations. ALSO READ: CSIS highlights Canada-based Khalistani extremists’ role in 1985 Air India bombing as it remembers the victims "The enterprise has been built over several decades on land acquired through the State machinery, supported by extensive administrative facilitation, infrastructure development, rehabilitation measures and the cooperation of the people of Tamil Nadu. The State, therefore, has a legitimate and enduring stake in the future of this strategically important public sector undertaking," the letter stated. Reiterating the state's stance, Vijay's letter stated that Tamil Nadu has consistently maintained that the Government of India’s shareholding in NLC India should not be reduced further. Citing that public sector enterprises of this nature, particularly those established and expanded with the sustained support of a host State over decades, should continue to remain firmly under effective Government ownership and control, Chief Minister Vijay requested the Government of India to reconsider its proposed disinvestment. CM Vijay's letter to the PM Modi comes after a similar letter was sent by DMK MP Kanimozhi to India's Minister for Coal and Mines, where she stated that the proposed stake sale has caused widespread concern among employees, trade unions, and the public. "I have urged the Union Government to withdraw the stake sale and take appropriate steps to safeguard the interests of all stakeholders, while protecting the strategic and public-sector character of NLC," the DMK Parliamentarian from Tamil Nadu had said.

Chief Minister Vijay mentioned in his letter that the Government of Tamil Nadu strongly opposes, in principle, any further dilution of the Government of India’s equity in NLC.&nbsp;

Reconsider proposed stake sale in Govt firm Neyveli Lignite: CM Vijay to PM Modi

Tamil Nadu's Principal Opposition party, DMK, has warned legal action against the Information and Public Relations Department of Chief Minister Vijay's Government, accusing it of making political attacks against the opposition and its representatives via social media posts. Senior DMK leader and lawyer, P. Wilson, highlighted that "The Department of Information and Public Relations(DIPR) is a government department.&nbsp;&nbsp;While it’s part of their job to post speeches of Hon. CM &amp; Ministers on social media, the captions being added by the DIPR are political attacks on the opposition &amp; MLAs. These kinds of political statements by a government department are unprecedented and do not bode well for parliamentary democracy."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/geomysore-jonnagiri-project-inaugurated-all-about-india-s-first-private-gold-mine-1782297408471">India's first private gold mine inaugurated: All about Geomysore-Jonnagiri Project in Andhra Pradesh</a>&nbsp;The DMK has taken this stance in response to a few reel-format social media posts shared by the Government's DIPR. These posts contained excerpts of the Chief Minister's speech in the Assembly during the recent session, which was the first for the TVK Government. Some of these posts were uploaded with captions that translate to: Corruption cases are being exposed one by one!; A retaliation the opposition can't forget! This is not a two-faced government. These captions were posted along with minute-long videos of the Chief Minister's speech in the Assembly.&nbsp;&nbsp;Replying to one such post of the DIPR, DMK leader and Parliamentarian P. Wilson stated, " There is a difference between party and government. Hope the bureaucrats don’t blur this line in a newfound frenzy to please the new CM" He also requested Chief Minister Vijay to stop using the Government's DIPR as his personal public relations agency. Wilson also questioned if this was the effect of Vijay's close aide, Jagadish, a film producer and head of a talent management firm, being appointed as a private secretary in the Chief Minister's office.&nbsp;&nbsp;DIPR runs on the public exchequer, don’t go down this Route. We will take legal action if it continues and hold those responsible to account, Wilson warned in his social media post. This incident comes at a time when both Chief Minister Vijay and Leader of Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin have been publicly making personal remarks against each other in a veiled manner.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The DMK has taken this stance in response to a few reel-format social media posts shared by the Government's DIPR. These posts contained excerpts of the Chief Minister's speech in the Assembly during the recent session, which was the first for the TVK Government.

Tamil Nadu's Principal Opposition party, DMK, has warned legal action against the Information and Public Relations Department of Chief Minister Vijay's Government, accusing it of making political attacks against the opposition and its representatives via social media posts. Senior DMK leader and lawyer, P. Wilson, highlighted that "The Department of Information and Public Relations(DIPR) is a government department. While it’s part of their job to post speeches of Hon. CM & Ministers on social media, the captions being added by the DIPR are political attacks on the opposition & MLAs. These kinds of political statements by a government department are unprecedented and do not bode well for parliamentary democracy." Also read: India's first private gold mine inaugurated: All about Geomysore-Jonnagiri Project in Andhra Pradesh The DMK has taken this stance in response to a few reel-format social media posts shared by the Government's DIPR. These posts contained excerpts of the Chief Minister's speech in the Assembly during the recent session, which was the first for the TVK Government. Some of these posts were uploaded with captions that translate to: Corruption cases are being exposed one by one!; A retaliation the opposition can't forget! This is not a two-faced government. These captions were posted along with minute-long videos of the Chief Minister's speech in the Assembly. Replying to one such post of the DIPR, DMK leader and Parliamentarian P. Wilson stated, " There is a difference between party and government. Hope the bureaucrats don’t blur this line in a newfound frenzy to please the new CM" He also requested Chief Minister Vijay to stop using the Government's DIPR as his personal public relations agency. Wilson also questioned if this was the effect of Vijay's close aide, Jagadish, a film producer and head of a talent management firm, being appointed as a private secretary in the Chief Minister's office. DIPR runs on the public exchequer, don’t go down this Route. We will take legal action if it continues and hold those responsible to account, Wilson warned in his social media post. This incident comes at a time when both Chief Minister Vijay and Leader of Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin have been publicly making personal remarks against each other in a veiled manner.

The DMK has taken this stance in response to a few reel-format social media posts shared by the Government's DIPR. These posts contained excerpts of the Chief Minister's speech in the Assembly during the recent session, which was the first for the TVK Government.

DMK warns legal action against Vijay Govt's Publicity Dept for 'personal PR'

IIT Madras announced the handing over of indigenously developed ‘YD One’ ultra-lightweight wheelchairs to the Army Hospital (Research and Referral), the apex medical facility of the Armed Forces Medical Services under India’s Ministry of Defence, located in New Delhi. A 1,200-bed quaternary care institution, it serves serving Armed Forces personnel, ex-servicemen, their dependents, war widows, and other entitled beneficiaries. The ‘YD One’ wheelchairs are manufactured by Thryv Mobility, an IIT Madras-incubated company specialising in the design and manufacture of ultra-lightweight active wheelchairs. These wheelchairs have been developed at IIT Madras’s TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) in collaboration with Thryv Mobility, with co-design input from wheelchair users.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-s-op-sindoor-lies-busted-iaf-document-proves-india-s-rafale-fleet-fully-intact-1782226973572">Pakistan’s Op Sindoor lies busted, IAF document proves India’s Rafale fleet fully intact</a>&nbsp;Highlighting the importance of this initiative, Lt General Avinash Das, Commandant, Army Hospital (R&amp;R), said, “Mobility is fundamental to dignity and independence. We welcome this contribution from IIT Madras and Fiserv, which will directly support our patients and their families in regaining and maintaining mobility through devices designed and built in India.”&nbsp;Its makers describe ‘YD One’ as a wheelchair that helps users to self-propel. The wheelchairs handed over to Army Hospital (Research and Referral) will be used within the hospital’s rehabilitation programme, introducing patients to active mobility as part of their rehabilitation journey and demonstrating that independent, self-propelled movement is achievable.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-led-tmc-faction-hits-back-expels-firhad-hakim-aroop-biswas-and-6-others-over-anti-party-activities-1782221480899">Mamata-led TMC faction hits back, expels Firhad Hakim, Aroop Roy and 6 others over anti-party activities</a>&nbsp;Explaining the uniqueness and salient features of the ‘YD One’, Poornachandran, a wheelchair user for 15 years, said that the product is significantly lighter than the five other models he had used in the past. “I’ve been using the YD One for a year. I have to self-propel (push) the wheelchair for 5-6 km every day, and this lighter wheelchair takes me forward five metres, as opposed to the heavier models that took me forward by about two metres. It is easier to manoeuvre a lighter wheelchair, and it is also convenient for transporting in cars or on two-wheelers. I even took part in a wheelchair marathon and was able to clock a kilometre in about six minutes,” added the wheelchair skills programme lead at the National Centre for Assistive Health Technology.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/11-india-bound-ships-carrying-crude-lpg-fertilisers-crossed-hormuz-since-us-iran-mou-signing-10-still-in-gulf-mea-1782217692758">11 India-bound ships carrying crude, LPG, fertilisers crossed Hormuz since US-Iran MoU signing; 10 still in Gulf: MEA</a>&nbsp;Retired Indian Naval officer Rear Admiral Deepak Bansal played an instrumental role in forging civil-military fusion, besides mentoring young faculty and connecting academia, industry, and the military establishment with the objective of reaching indigenous assistive technologies for those in need. He serves as a Professor of Practice at IIT Madras, and operates as the Head of Strategic Partnerships at Thryv Mobility.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/cred-founder-kunal-shah-becomes-global-ceo-of-whatsapp-meta-invests-900-million-in-fintech-startup-1782137297377">CRED founder Kunal Shah becomes global CEO of WhatsApp as Meta invests $900 million in startup</a>&nbsp;The handover of 25 wheelchairs marks the first tranche of a 100-wheelchair programme being implemented by IIT Madras under a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) partnership funded by Fiserv, the global provider of payments and financial technology services. The remaining 75 wheelchairs will be delivered in subsequent batches over the coming months.

The wheelchairs handed over to Army Hospital (Research and Referral) will be used within the hospital’s rehabilitation programme, introducing patients to active mobility as part of their rehabilitation journey and demonstrating that independent, self-propelled movement is achievable.

IIT Madras announced the handing over of indigenously developed ‘YD One’ ultra-lightweight wheelchairs to the Army Hospital (Research and Referral), the apex medical facility of the Armed Forces Medical Services under India’s Ministry of Defence, located in New Delhi. A 1,200-bed quaternary care institution, it serves serving Armed Forces personnel, ex-servicemen, their dependents, war widows, and other entitled beneficiaries. The ‘YD One’ wheelchairs are manufactured by Thryv Mobility, an IIT Madras-incubated company specialising in the design and manufacture of ultra-lightweight active wheelchairs. These wheelchairs have been developed at IIT Madras’s TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research and Device Development (R2D2) in collaboration with Thryv Mobility, with co-design input from wheelchair users. Also Read: Pakistan’s Op Sindoor lies busted, IAF document proves India’s Rafale fleet fully intact Highlighting the importance of this initiative, Lt General Avinash Das, Commandant, Army Hospital (R&R), said, “Mobility is fundamental to dignity and independence. We welcome this contribution from IIT Madras and Fiserv, which will directly support our patients and their families in regaining and maintaining mobility through devices designed and built in India.” Its makers describe ‘YD One’ as a wheelchair that helps users to self-propel. The wheelchairs handed over to Army Hospital (Research and Referral) will be used within the hospital’s rehabilitation programme, introducing patients to active mobility as part of their rehabilitation journey and demonstrating that independent, self-propelled movement is achievable. Also Read: Mamata-led TMC faction hits back, expels Firhad Hakim, Aroop Roy and 6 others over anti-party activities Explaining the uniqueness and salient features of the ‘YD One’, Poornachandran, a wheelchair user for 15 years, said that the product is significantly lighter than the five other models he had used in the past. “I’ve been using the YD One for a year. I have to self-propel (push) the wheelchair for 5-6 km every day, and this lighter wheelchair takes me forward five metres, as opposed to the heavier models that took me forward by about two metres. It is easier to manoeuvre a lighter wheelchair, and it is also convenient for transporting in cars or on two-wheelers. I even took part in a wheelchair marathon and was able to clock a kilometre in about six minutes,” added the wheelchair skills programme lead at the National Centre for Assistive Health Technology. Also Read: 11 India-bound ships carrying crude, LPG, fertilisers crossed Hormuz since US-Iran MoU signing; 10 still in Gulf: MEA Retired Indian Naval officer Rear Admiral Deepak Bansal played an instrumental role in forging civil-military fusion, besides mentoring young faculty and connecting academia, industry, and the military establishment with the objective of reaching indigenous assistive technologies for those in need. He serves as a Professor of Practice at IIT Madras, and operates as the Head of Strategic Partnerships at Thryv Mobility. Also Read: CRED founder Kunal Shah becomes global CEO of WhatsApp as Meta invests $900 million in startup The handover of 25 wheelchairs marks the first tranche of a 100-wheelchair programme being implemented by IIT Madras under a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) partnership funded by Fiserv, the global provider of payments and financial technology services. The remaining 75 wheelchairs will be delivered in subsequent batches over the coming months.

The wheelchairs handed over to Army Hospital (Research and Referral) will be used within the hospital’s rehabilitation programme, introducing patients to active mobility as part of their rehabilitation journey and demonstrating that independent, self-propelled movement is achievable.

IIT-M provides ultra-light wheelchairs to Indian Army Hospital

Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited (BHAVINI), a Government of India Enterprise under the country's Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), organised an Industry Partnership Conclave for Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR) Expansion. This comes months after &nbsp;India's 500 Megawatt Prototype Fast Breeder&nbsp;Reactor(PFBR) at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, successfully attained first criticality, in April 2026. Simply put, first criticality is the start of controlled fission chain reaction.&nbsp;&nbsp;The event brought together senior representatives from leading public and private sector industries, technology partners, equipment manufacturers, and engineering organisations. Key stakeholders associated with the Indian nuclear power programme gathered to forge collaborative partnership and build a robust roadmap for the next phase of India’s nuclear energy growth.&nbsp;Speaking at the event, P.A. Suresh Babu, Chairman &amp; Managing Director of BHAVINI expressed deep gratitude to the industrial partners for their contributions to the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR). Drawing from his extensive experience with India's Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) fleet and the VVER(Soviet-origin Water-Water Energetic Reactor) programme that is operational at Kudankulam in Tamil Nadu, the CMD highlighted how Indian industries transformed the nuclear sector. He emphasized that a similar partnership-driven approach is vital to expand the FBR programme and achieve long-term energy security, sustainable development and making the best use of the nation's nuclear fuel resources.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/neet-re-exam-fresh-scam-surfaces-despite-telegram-ban-rajasthan-youth-arrested-for-selling-fake-papers-1781937484501">NEET re-exam: Rajasthan youth arrested for selling fake papers on Telegram; fresh scam surfaces despite app ban</a>&nbsp;Domain experts explored new opportunities arising from the planned growth of Fast Breeder Reactors, such as: manufacturing critical systems and equipment locally to reduce foreign reliance, enhancing manufacturing capabilities and enforcing strict quality assurance, creating a sustainable ecosystem for private and public industries in the nuclear sector.<h2>What is India's three-stage Nuclear programme?</h2>&nbsp;India’s 3-stage nuclear programme is a sequential strategy to convert uranium into plutonium and finally utilize thorium for generating sustainable nuclear energy.&nbsp;In the first stage, Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) use natural Uranium to generate electricity and produce Plutonium-239 as a by-product. At present, India has about two dozen PHWR Nuclear power plants, which contribute about 3percent of India's total power generation.&nbsp;The second stage employs Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs), which use Plutonium(by-product from first stage) to generate more fissile material, while converting thorium into Uranium-233.&nbsp;&nbsp;In the third stage, advanced reactors utilize Uranium-233 along with Thorium to produce sustainable nuclear energy.&nbsp;In simple terms, India's Fast Breeder Reactors technology forms the vital bridge between the current fleet of pressurized heavy water reactors and the future deployment of Thorium-based reactors.&nbsp;This long-term strategy is particularly suited to India, which possesses minimal Uranium reserves, but one of the world’s largest Thorium reserves. While the first stage is fully operational, the second stage has just begun and had a long way to go, while the third stage remains in the research phase.<h2>India's goal to expand Nuclear power generation capacity</h2>&nbsp;At present, India has the capacity to generate about 8,780 Megawatt of Nuclear energy from over two dozen facilities across the country. India's Nuclear power generation capacity is expected to increase to 22,380 MW by 2031-32 on progressive completion of projects under implementation, as per Government data. &nbsp;

India’s 3-stage nuclear programme is a sequential strategy to convert uranium into plutonium and finally utilize thorium for generating sustainable nuclear energy.

Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited (BHAVINI), a Government of India Enterprise under the country's Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), organised an Industry Partnership Conclave for Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR) Expansion. This comes months after India's 500 Megawatt Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor(PFBR) at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, successfully attained first criticality, in April 2026. Simply put, first criticality is the start of controlled fission chain reaction. The event brought together senior representatives from leading public and private sector industries, technology partners, equipment manufacturers, and engineering organisations. Key stakeholders associated with the Indian nuclear power programme gathered to forge collaborative partnership and build a robust roadmap for the next phase of India’s nuclear energy growth. Speaking at the event, P.A. Suresh Babu, Chairman & Managing Director of BHAVINI expressed deep gratitude to the industrial partners for their contributions to the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR). Drawing from his extensive experience with India's Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) fleet and the VVER(Soviet-origin Water-Water Energetic Reactor) programme that is operational at Kudankulam in Tamil Nadu, the CMD highlighted how Indian industries transformed the nuclear sector. He emphasized that a similar partnership-driven approach is vital to expand the FBR programme and achieve long-term energy security, sustainable development and making the best use of the nation's nuclear fuel resources. ALSO READ: NEET re-exam: Rajasthan youth arrested for selling fake papers on Telegram; fresh scam surfaces despite app ban Domain experts explored new opportunities arising from the planned growth of Fast Breeder Reactors, such as: manufacturing critical systems and equipment locally to reduce foreign reliance, enhancing manufacturing capabilities and enforcing strict quality assurance, creating a sustainable ecosystem for private and public industries in the nuclear sector. What is India's three-stage Nuclear programme? India’s 3-stage nuclear programme is a sequential strategy to convert uranium into plutonium and finally utilize thorium for generating sustainable nuclear energy. In the first stage, Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) use natural Uranium to generate electricity and produce Plutonium-239 as a by-product. At present, India has about two dozen PHWR Nuclear power plants, which contribute about 3percent of India's total power generation. The second stage employs Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs), which use Plutonium(by-product from first stage) to generate more fissile material, while converting thorium into Uranium-233. In the third stage, advanced reactors utilize Uranium-233 along with Thorium to produce sustainable nuclear energy. In simple terms, India's Fast Breeder Reactors technology forms the vital bridge between the current fleet of pressurized heavy water reactors and the future deployment of Thorium-based reactors. This long-term strategy is particularly suited to India, which possesses minimal Uranium reserves, but one of the world’s largest Thorium reserves. While the first stage is fully operational, the second stage has just begun and had a long way to go, while the third stage remains in the research phase. India's goal to expand Nuclear power generation capacity At present, India has the capacity to generate about 8,780 Megawatt of Nuclear energy from over two dozen facilities across the country. India's Nuclear power generation capacity is expected to increase to 22,380 MW by 2031-32 on progressive completion of projects under implementation, as per Government data.

India’s 3-stage nuclear programme is a sequential strategy to convert uranium into plutonium and finally utilize thorium for generating sustainable nuclear energy.

Indian government mulls expanding Fast Breeder Nuclear Reactor programme with industry partners

A delegation from Hyundai Shipbuilding (HD Korea Shipbuilding &amp; Offshore Engineering) met Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay in Chennai, regarding the establishment of a proposed shipbuilding project in Thoothukudi, involving an investment of Rs 38,000 crore ($4 billion), with the potential to create 15,000 direct jobs. HD KSOE, one of the world’s largest shipbuilders, had signed an MoU with Government of Tamil Nadu for establishing a state-of-the-art shipbuilding cluster.&nbsp;This meeting in Chennai comes barely a week after the state’s Industries Minister Keerthana visited HD Hyundai Heavy Industries’ Ulsan shipyard and headquarters in South Korea, where she toured the shipbuilding facilities, observed advanced production systems, and held discussions on potential areas of cooperation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/had-a-great-time-on-last-visit-trump-tells-wion-recalls-massive-india-stadium-event-1781715435397">‘Had a great time on last visit,’ Trump tells WION, recalls massive India stadium event</a>&nbsp;For this project, National Shipbuilding &amp; Heavy Industries Park Tamil Nadu Limited (NSHIPTN) was formed between Tamil Nadu Government’s SIPCOT and the Indian Government’s VOC Port Authority (VOCPA). The first in-principle approval for the establishment of a greenfield shipbuilding cluster has also been obtained from Directorate General of Shipping, Government of India, it was mentioned.&nbsp;During the meeting, Chief Minister Vijay reiterated his government’s commitment to facilitate the timely establishment of this strategic project in Thoothukudi and assured the delegation of proactive institutional support at every stage of project implementation. The delegation reciprocated by briefing the chief minister of the progress made and reaffirmed HD KSOE keen interest in grounding this project at the earliest.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-india-trade-deal-worth-over-6-billion-to-come-into-force-on-july-15-1781712306423">UK-India trade deal worth over $6 billion to come into force on July 15</a>&nbsp;In December 2025, when the DMK government was ruling Tamil Nadu, HD Hyundai, the holding company of HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, had signed a preliminary agreement with the state government to build a new shipyard. Back then a company spokesperson had said that the Indian government had earlier suggested five candidate states—including Tamil Nadu, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh—for the project. HD Hyundai selected Thoothukudi, in Tamil Nadu as the most suitable location for the new shipyard, as the temperature and rainfall patterns are similar to those of Ulsan, the South Korean port city that houses HD Hyundai’s shipyards.

Chief Minister Vijay reiterated his government’s commitment to facilitate the timely establishment of this strategic project in Thoothukudi and assured the delegation of proactive institutional support at every stage of project implementation.

A delegation from Hyundai Shipbuilding (HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering) met Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay in Chennai, regarding the establishment of a proposed shipbuilding project in Thoothukudi, involving an investment of Rs 38,000 crore ($4 billion), with the potential to create 15,000 direct jobs. HD KSOE, one of the world’s largest shipbuilders, had signed an MoU with Government of Tamil Nadu for establishing a state-of-the-art shipbuilding cluster. This meeting in Chennai comes barely a week after the state’s Industries Minister Keerthana visited HD Hyundai Heavy Industries’ Ulsan shipyard and headquarters in South Korea, where she toured the shipbuilding facilities, observed advanced production systems, and held discussions on potential areas of cooperation. Also Read: ‘Had a great time on last visit,’ Trump tells WION, recalls massive India stadium event For this project, National Shipbuilding & Heavy Industries Park Tamil Nadu Limited (NSHIPTN) was formed between Tamil Nadu Government’s SIPCOT and the Indian Government’s VOC Port Authority (VOCPA). The first in-principle approval for the establishment of a greenfield shipbuilding cluster has also been obtained from Directorate General of Shipping, Government of India, it was mentioned. During the meeting, Chief Minister Vijay reiterated his government’s commitment to facilitate the timely establishment of this strategic project in Thoothukudi and assured the delegation of proactive institutional support at every stage of project implementation. The delegation reciprocated by briefing the chief minister of the progress made and reaffirmed HD KSOE keen interest in grounding this project at the earliest. Also Read: UK-India trade deal worth over $6 billion to come into force on July 15 In December 2025, when the DMK government was ruling Tamil Nadu, HD Hyundai, the holding company of HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, had signed a preliminary agreement with the state government to build a new shipyard. Back then a company spokesperson had said that the Indian government had earlier suggested five candidate states—including Tamil Nadu, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh—for the project. HD Hyundai selected Thoothukudi, in Tamil Nadu as the most suitable location for the new shipyard, as the temperature and rainfall patterns are similar to those of Ulsan, the South Korean port city that houses HD Hyundai’s shipyards.

Chief Minister Vijay reiterated his government’s commitment to facilitate the timely establishment of this strategic project in Thoothukudi and assured the delegation of proactive institutional support at every stage of project implementation.

HD Hyundai delegation meets CM Vijay over proposed $4bn shipyard in Tamil Nadu

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