Join us on an epic journey across the globe as we explore some of the most unique and captivating experiences the world has to offer. In this episode of Wings we take you on a whirlwind tour through Kerala, Australia, Scotland, and vintage car events worldwide, all in our exciting travel show!

Onam Festival, Fire & Ice Plunge in Australia, Loch Ness & Vintage Cars

<p>India's inaugural artificial intelligence school has been opened in Kerala. The groundbreaking&nbsp;inauguration of the Santhigiri Vidyabhavan took place in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala. The school was officially inaugurated by former Indian President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday (August 22).&nbsp;This initiative is aimed at revolutionising the education sector through innovative technology-driven learning methods.</p>

<h2><strong>AI technology</strong></h2>

<p>The AI School, a collaboration between Vedhik eSchool and iLearning Engines (ILE) USA, is set to reshape the way students learn and engage with their studies. The school's design and framework have been meticulously managed by a committee of experienced professionals, including former Chief Secretaries, DGPs, and Vice Chancellors, ensuring a holistic approach to education.</p>

<h2><strong>Innovative methods</strong></h2>

<p>Vedhik eSchool officials reportedly stressed the AI School's significance as a forward-looking educational paradigm. Integrating artificial intelligence technology. The AI School guarantees students access to a high-quality learning experience equivalent to traditional classroom settings.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-chandrayaan-3-to-make-historic-attempt-at-moon-landing-today-628136">India's Chandrayaan-3 to make historic attempt at moon landing today</a></p>

<p>Notably, this immersive learning experience is accessible through the school's website, extending beyond regular school hours.</p>

<p>The AI School adheres to the guidelines outlined in the New National Education Policy (NEP 2020) and is designed to meet the stringent criteria set by the National School Accreditation Standards.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Tailored learning&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Initially catering to students in classes 8 to 12, the AI School offers a plethora of learning avenues. From multi-teacher revision support to aptitude tests and career mapping, students can access an array of resources to enhance their academic journey.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrayaan-3-soft-landing-will-offer-basic-tech-for-landing-missions-to-other-planets-628071">Chandrayaan-3 soft-landing will offer basic tech for landing missions to other planets</a></p>

<p>Vedhik eSchool said the AI School's role is to equip students for a successful future.</p>

<p>The platform offers intensive training for competitive exams, including JEE, NEET, MAT, CUET, CLAT, G-MAT, GRE, and language proficiency tests such as IELTS.</p>

<p>Additionally, the AI School provides guidance for pursuing higher education and scholarships in renowned foreign universities.</p>

<h2><strong>Minimal cost</strong></h2>

<p>One of the standout features of the AI School is its commitment to affordability. By providing digital content through the school's website, the initiative eliminates any supplementary financial burdens on schools and parents.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Decoding Chandrayaan-3 landing: 'If problem arises, landing could be delayed'</strong></p>

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<p>The AI School not only empowers students but also offers parents an effective way to monitor their children's academic progress.&nbsp;The collaborative effort between Vedhik eSchool and iLearning Engines (ILE) USA heralds a new era in education, where technology and innovation converge to create an inclusive and dynamic learning environment.</p>

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India's inaugural artificial intelligence school has been opened in Kerala. The groundbreaking inauguration of the Santhigiri Vidyabhavan took place in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala.

India's inaugural artificial intelligence school has been opened in Kerala. The groundbreaking inauguration of the Santhigiri Vidyabhavan took place in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala. The school was officially inaugurated by former Indian President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday (August 22). This initiative is aimed at revolutionising the education sector through innovative technology-driven learning methods. AI technology The AI School, a collaboration between Vedhik eSchool and iLearning Engines (ILE) USA, is set to reshape the way students learn and engage with their studies. The school's design and framework have been meticulously managed by a committee of experienced professionals, including former Chief Secretaries, DGPs, and Vice Chancellors, ensuring a holistic approach to education. Innovative methods Vedhik eSchool officials reportedly stressed the AI School's significance as a forward-looking educational paradigm. Integrating artificial intelligence technology. The AI School guarantees students access to a high-quality learning experience equivalent to traditional classroom settings. Also Read | India's Chandrayaan-3 to make historic attempt at moon landing today Notably, this immersive learning experience is accessible through the school's website, extending beyond regular school hours. The AI School adheres to the guidelines outlined in the New National Education Policy (NEP 2020) and is designed to meet the stringent criteria set by the National School Accreditation Standards. Tailored learning Initially catering to students in classes 8 to 12, the AI School offers a plethora of learning avenues. From multi-teacher revision support to aptitude tests and career mapping, students can access an array of resources to enhance their academic journey. Also Read | Chandrayaan-3 soft-landing will offer basic tech for landing missions to other planets Vedhik eSchool said the AI School's role is to equip students for a successful future. The platform offers intensive training for competitive exams, including JEE, NEET, MAT, CUET, CLAT, G-MAT, GRE, and language proficiency tests such as IELTS. Additionally, the AI School provides guidance for pursuing higher education and scholarships in renowned foreign universities. Minimal cost One of the standout features of the AI School is its commitment to affordability. By providing digital content through the school's website, the initiative eliminates any supplementary financial burdens on schools and parents. WATCH | Decoding Chandrayaan-3 landing: 'If problem arises, landing could be delayed' × The AI School not only empowers students but also offers parents an effective way to monitor their children's academic progress. The collaborative effort between Vedhik eSchool and iLearning Engines (ILE) USA heralds a new era in education, where technology and innovation converge to create an inclusive and dynamic learning environment. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Redefining education, India's maiden AI school unveiled in southern state of Kerala

<p>Churning out top scientific talent for 11 years, the government-run Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) in Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram has contributed more than 1,300 scientists and engineers to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Functioning as an autonomous body under the Department of Space, Government of India, IIST is the first of its kind in the country and offers high-quality education at the undergraduate, graduate, doctoral and post-doctoral levels in areas with a special focus on space sciences, space technology and space applications.</p>

<p>Stepping into its 16th year, the IIST held its 11th Convocation on Friday (August 18).</p>

<p>On Friday, a total of 275 students conferred their degrees at the Institute, which comprises B.Tech, M.Tech and PhDs. The Convocation was presided over by top officials from the Indian space sector – Dr. B N Suresh, Chancellor, IIST, Dr. K Radhakrishnan, Member Space Commission and former Chairman ISRO, Dr. S Somanath, Chairman ISRO, Dr. V Narayanan, Director ISRO, LPSC, Dr. S. Unnikrishnan Nair, Director IIST&amp;VSSC, among others.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking at the event, Chairman ISRO, Dr. S. Somanath highlighted the top priorities of ISRO – reliably increase the throughput of production of rockets and satellites to meet market demand;&nbsp;reduce the cost of access to space;&nbsp;work on re-usable vertical take-off and landing rockets;&nbsp;build intelligent rockets and satellites; build more powerful rockets based on methane-liquid oxygen engines; and build multi-purpose spacecraft with miniaturised electronics and advanced technology.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also touched upon the role of IIST in fostering the research and development culture in ISRO and transitioning the space agency to perform more technology development activities aimed at the future. “IIST is an integral part of ISRO and is the research canvas of ISRO” he urged the students and faculty to use the ISRO labs and centres for their research work.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As part of its International partnerships, IIST collaborates with the California Institute of Technology, the University of Colorado, Nanyang Technological University of Singapore, the University of Surrey (UK), Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Institute of Astronomy – University of Cambridge, Niigata University Japan and ISAE-SUPAERO France.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The main objectives of collaboration through the MoU mode is to provide for an exchange of students and faculty; initiate joint research on mutually accepted areas; and provide fellowships for training and research at doctoral and post-doctoral levels.<br />
<br />
Addressing the graduating students, Dr. K. Radhakrishnan, former chairman of ISRO, shared his vision that IIST alumni must help ISRO leap forward and harness the resources of the Moon and Mars and help India play an active role in the interplanetary society that is expected to take shape by 2047.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sharing the IIT model of industry-academia collaboration, he pointed out how industry experts with 15 years or more experience could join academia and teach there by taking us the role of Professor of Practice. Likewise, those who are in academia as professors or assistant professors could also take up roles in related industries as a vice-president or general manager and contribute to that sector.</p>

<p>Referring to how 80 per cent of medical equipment in use in India is being imported, he urged the students to use the know-how and know-why of the space medicine and medical engineering aspects of India’s astronaut mission ‘Gaganyaan,’ for the benefit of the common man.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
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Churning out top scientific talent for 11 years, the government-run Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) in Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram has contributed more than 1,300 scientists and engineers to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

Churning out top scientific talent for 11 years, the government-run Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) in Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram has contributed more than 1,300 scientists and engineers to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Functioning as an autonomous body under the Department of Space, Government of India, IIST is the first of its kind in the country and offers high-quality education at the undergraduate, graduate, doctoral and post-doctoral levels in areas with a special focus on space sciences, space technology and space applications. Stepping into its 16th year, the IIST held its 11th Convocation on Friday (August 18). On Friday, a total of 275 students conferred their degrees at the Institute, which comprises B.Tech, M.Tech and PhDs. The Convocation was presided over by top officials from the Indian space sector – Dr. B N Suresh, Chancellor, IIST, Dr. K Radhakrishnan, Member Space Commission and former Chairman ISRO, Dr. S Somanath, Chairman ISRO, Dr. V Narayanan, Director ISRO, LPSC, Dr. S. Unnikrishnan Nair, Director IIST&VSSC, among others. Speaking at the event, Chairman ISRO, Dr. S. Somanath highlighted the top priorities of ISRO – reliably increase the throughput of production of rockets and satellites to meet market demand; reduce the cost of access to space; work on re-usable vertical take-off and landing rockets; build intelligent rockets and satellites; build more powerful rockets based on methane-liquid oxygen engines; and build multi-purpose spacecraft with miniaturised electronics and advanced technology. He also touched upon the role of IIST in fostering the research and development culture in ISRO and transitioning the space agency to perform more technology development activities aimed at the future. “IIST is an integral part of ISRO and is the research canvas of ISRO” he urged the students and faculty to use the ISRO labs and centres for their research work. As part of its International partnerships, IIST collaborates with the California Institute of Technology, the University of Colorado, Nanyang Technological University of Singapore, the University of Surrey (UK), Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Institute of Astronomy – University of Cambridge, Niigata University Japan and ISAE-SUPAERO France. The main objectives of collaboration through the MoU mode is to provide for an exchange of students and faculty; initiate joint research on mutually accepted areas; and provide fellowships for training and research at doctoral and post-doctoral levels. Addressing the graduating students, Dr. K. Radhakrishnan, former chairman of ISRO, shared his vision that IIST alumni must help ISRO leap forward and harness the resources of the Moon and Mars and help India play an active role in the interplanetary society that is expected to take shape by 2047. Sharing the IIT model of industry-academia collaboration, he pointed out how industry experts with 15 years or more experience could join academia and teach there by taking us the role of Professor of Practice. Likewise, those who are in academia as professors or assistant professors could also take up roles in related industries as a vice-president or general manager and contribute to that sector. Referring to how 80 per cent of medical equipment in use in India is being imported, he urged the students to use the know-how and know-why of the space medicine and medical engineering aspects of India’s astronaut mission ‘Gaganyaan,’ for the benefit of the common man. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: In 11 years, more than 1,300 graduates from govt-run IIST have joined ISRO

Southern Indian state of Kerala wants to change its name to Keralam. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan introduced a resolution for this in the Kerala Assembly. It requests the central government to officially rename Kerala to 'Keralam,' which is the accepted usage in the state's language Malayalam.

India | Kerala seeks to change its name: Kerala vs Keralam, what do people want?

Kerala to be renamed Keralam: Why is Indian state govt making this move?

India veteran Congress leader Oommen Chandy who served as Chief Minister of the southern state of Kerala twice has died. Chandy who was 79 breathed his last at a private Hospital in Bengaluru in the early hours of Tuesday. The leader had been suffering from throat cancer for quite some time now and chose to stay in Bengaluru, Karnataka since last November. The government of Kerala has declared a public holiday in his memory today, following this two-day period of mourning will be observed.

Former Kerala CM & veteran INC leader Oommen Chandy passes away

<p>A story of communal harmony is emerging from the southern Indian state of Kerala. The youth wing of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) organised the wedding of a Hindu couple at a temple in Malappuram district in Kerala. The Muslim Youth League, the youth wing of IUML, in the 12th ward of Vengara panchayat, carried out the ceremony on the morning of July 9. The Ammancheri Bhagavati Temple was witness to the wedding of Geethu and Vishnu.</p>

<p>Geetu is a native of Palakkad and was a resident of Rose Manor Short Stay Home for women and girls in Vengara. The short-stay home rehabilitates women in distress who have found themselves to be victims of exploitation, marital discord, trafficking, and familial disharmony.</p>

<p>Hassena Fasal, president of Vengara Panchayat told news outlet The News Minute (TNM), that the short-stay home had stopped receiving grants from the government a year ago.</p>

<p>“Geethu, her sister Girija, and their mother were the last residents of Rose Manor. Girija was also married off with help from the Youth League almost a year back. The home’s superintendent arranged the alliances, while the Youth League helped financially,” Haseena said as quoted by TNM.</p>

<p>Geethu's sister Girija herself got married in the month of September last year. Rakesh, the groom is a native of Edayoor in Malappuram. The Youth League committee supported this union as well by taking care of financial and other requirements.</p>

<p>Geethu's groom Vishnu hails from Kunnamangalam in Kozhikode</p>

<p>People from different political parties and religions attended the wedding. These included leaders from the IUML, the Congress, Communist Party of India (Marxist). Several local residents and well-wishers were present as well. Sadiq Ali Thangal and PK Kunhalikutty, prominent IUML leaders were also present for the ceremony.</p>

<p>“The Muslim League workers of Vengara planned, decided, and conducted the wedding of Geeta, who came to Rose Manor with her mother and sister years ago. The pandal was erected in the courtyard of Sri Ammancheri Kavu Bhagavathy Temple. The temple committee stood by everything. It became a beautiful expression of harmony and goodness when the region and its people came together with love and support regardless of party politics,” said PK Kunhalikutty as quoted by The News Minute.</p>

<p>“This is a feature of Malappuram. There have been attempts to paint the district in a poor light. Those who have seen and understood Malappuram know that such campaigns are false,” said IUML general secretary PMA Salam as quoted by Reporter TV.</p>

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A story of communal harmony is emerging from the southern Indian state of Kerala. The youth wing of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) organised the wedding of a Hindu couple at a temple in Malappuram district in Kerala.

A story of communal harmony is emerging from the southern Indian state of Kerala. The youth wing of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) organised the wedding of a Hindu couple at a temple in Malappuram district in Kerala. The Muslim Youth League, the youth wing of IUML, in the 12th ward of Vengara panchayat, carried out the ceremony on the morning of July 9. The Ammancheri Bhagavati Temple was witness to the wedding of Geethu and Vishnu. Geetu is a native of Palakkad and was a resident of Rose Manor Short Stay Home for women and girls in Vengara. The short-stay home rehabilitates women in distress who have found themselves to be victims of exploitation, marital discord, trafficking, and familial disharmony. Hassena Fasal, president of Vengara Panchayat told news outlet The News Minute (TNM), that the short-stay home had stopped receiving grants from the government a year ago. “Geethu, her sister Girija, and their mother were the last residents of Rose Manor. Girija was also married off with help from the Youth League almost a year back. The home’s superintendent arranged the alliances, while the Youth League helped financially,” Haseena said as quoted by TNM. Geethu's sister Girija herself got married in the month of September last year. Rakesh, the groom is a native of Edayoor in Malappuram. The Youth League committee supported this union as well by taking care of financial and other requirements. Geethu's groom Vishnu hails from Kunnamangalam in Kozhikode People from different political parties and religions attended the wedding. These included leaders from the IUML, the Congress, Communist Party of India (Marxist). Several local residents and well-wishers were present as well. Sadiq Ali Thangal and PK Kunhalikutty, prominent IUML leaders were also present for the ceremony. “The Muslim League workers of Vengara planned, decided, and conducted the wedding of Geeta, who came to Rose Manor with her mother and sister years ago. The pandal was erected in the courtyard of Sri Ammancheri Kavu Bhagavathy Temple. The temple committee stood by everything. It became a beautiful expression of harmony and goodness when the region and its people came together with love and support regardless of party politics,” said PK Kunhalikutty as quoted by The News Minute. “This is a feature of Malappuram. There have been attempts to paint the district in a poor light. Those who have seen and understood Malappuram know that such campaigns are false,” said IUML general secretary PMA Salam as quoted by Reporter TV. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India: Muslim organisation arranges Hindu couple's temple wedding

Launch of Amazonia-1 from India, a milestone in India-Brazil ties' says Rodrigo Leonardi, Coordinator, Brazilian Space Agency (AEB) in an exclusive conversation with WION'S Sidharth MP.

Brazilian space officer Rodrigo Leonardi speaks to WION

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<p>The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted extremely heavy rainfall in various parts of the country, including Kerala, Coastal &amp; South Interior Karnataka, and Meghalaya, on July 4. District authorities have declared a holiday for all schools and colleges in Mangaluru, Mulki, Ullal, Moodbidri, and Bantwal, because of heavy showers, ANI reported.</p>

<h2><strong>IMD issues red alert in 2 Kerala districts</strong></h2>

<p>IMD predicted heavy showers in Kerala and announced red alerts for two districts and orange alert for 11. The weather department has issued a red alert in Kannur and Idukki districts. Orange alert in Kerala has been announced in Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod. Furthermore, IMD has issued a yellow alert for the Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam districts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A red alert implies that the area might receive extremely heavy rainfall of over 20 cm, while an orange alert means very heavy showers between 6 to 20 cm. A yellow alert means heavy rainfall between 6 to 11 cm.</p>

<h2><strong>Delhi Monsoon&nbsp;Update</strong></h2>

<p>IMD forecast predicted cloudy skies for July 4 in the national capital Delhi. However, there's a possibility of only light showers or thundershowers. The minimum and maximum temperatures might range from 28 to 38 degree&nbsp;Celsius. Light to moderate, fairly&nbsp;widespread to widespread rainfall with isolated heavy rainfall is expected over Uttarakhand during the next four days and East Uttar Pradesh during July 3-5.</p>

<h2><strong>Yellow alert in Odisha</strong></h2>

<p>IMD has issued a yellow alert in 18 districts of Odisha from July 3-7. According to the weather forecast, a few districts of Odisha might receive light to moderate rain or thundershowers. The IMD weather forecast predicted high chances of thunderstorms with lightning in some areas of Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Bargarh, Sambalpur, Deogarh, Angul, Dhenkanal, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Sonepur, Boudh, and Bolangir districts. Odisha's Nuapada, Nawarangapur, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Ganjam, Gajapati, Malkangiri, Koraput, and Rayagada might also receive heavy showers.</p>

<h2><strong>Heavy rainfall in Goa till July 4</strong></h2>

<p>Konkan and Goa might continue to receive light to moderate rainfall. IMD has predicted isolated heavy to very heavy showers in some regions of the state. IMD also predicted isolated extremely heavy showers over Konkan and Goa from July 5-7.</p>

<h2><strong>Northeast India Monsoon Update</strong></h2>

<p>IMD has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall&nbsp;over Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim, Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Manipur during the next four days. Moreover, the weather department has predicted extremely heavy showers over Meghalaya on July 4 and isolated heavy rainfall over Jharkhand on July 4 and over Odisha from July 5-7.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted extremely heavy rainfall in various parts of the country, including Kerala, Coastal & South Interior Karnataka, and Meghalaya, on July 4.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted extremely heavy rainfall in various parts of the country, including Kerala, Coastal & South Interior Karnataka, and Meghalaya, on July 4. District authorities have declared a holiday for all schools and colleges in Mangaluru, Mulki, Ullal, Moodbidri, and Bantwal, because of heavy showers, ANI reported. IMD issues red alert in 2 Kerala districts IMD predicted heavy showers in Kerala and announced red alerts for two districts and orange alert for 11. The weather department has issued a red alert in Kannur and Idukki districts. Orange alert in Kerala has been announced in Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod. Furthermore, IMD has issued a yellow alert for the Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam districts. A red alert implies that the area might receive extremely heavy rainfall of over 20 cm, while an orange alert means very heavy showers between 6 to 20 cm. A yellow alert means heavy rainfall between 6 to 11 cm. Delhi Monsoon Update IMD forecast predicted cloudy skies for July 4 in the national capital Delhi. However, there's a possibility of only light showers or thundershowers. The minimum and maximum temperatures might range from 28 to 38 degree Celsius. Light to moderate, fairly widespread to widespread rainfall with isolated heavy rainfall is expected over Uttarakhand during the next four days and East Uttar Pradesh during July 3-5. Yellow alert in Odisha IMD has issued a yellow alert in 18 districts of Odisha from July 3-7. According to the weather forecast, a few districts of Odisha might receive light to moderate rain or thundershowers. The IMD weather forecast predicted high chances of thunderstorms with lightning in some areas of Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Bargarh, Sambalpur, Deogarh, Angul, Dhenkanal, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Sonepur, Boudh, and Bolangir districts. Odisha's Nuapada, Nawarangapur, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Ganjam, Gajapati, Malkangiri, Koraput, and Rayagada might also receive heavy showers. Heavy rainfall in Goa till July 4 Konkan and Goa might continue to receive light to moderate rainfall. IMD has predicted isolated heavy to very heavy showers in some regions of the state. IMD also predicted isolated extremely heavy showers over Konkan and Goa from July 5-7. Northeast India Monsoon Update IMD has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall over Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim, Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Manipur during the next four days. Moreover, the weather department has predicted extremely heavy showers over Meghalaya on July 4 and isolated heavy rainfall over Jharkhand on July 4 and over Odisha from July 5-7. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Monsoon Update: IMD predicts extremely heavy rainfall in Kerala & other states; Check full weather forecast

In July 2023, India will be launching a spacecraft to land on the moon. The mission is known as Chandrayaan-3 and then it will be a spacecraft mission to study the Sun from afar it is known as Aditya L1. On the sidelines of ISRO's first-ever International Conference on Spacecraft Mission Operations, the ISRO Chief Dr. Somnath spoke to WION's Siddharth MP.

Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft has arrived at spaceport Sriharikota: ISRO chief to WION

Now the world is staring at an uncertain future with global weather patterns becoming erratic and extreme. Now scientists have announced the arrival of a climate phenomenon El Nino. It is raising fears of extreme weather and record temperatures, so what will be the impact of this phenomenon our next report answers for you.

Kerala: Monsoon finally arrives in India | India Climate News

Kerala is among the first Indian states walking on the path of self-reliance. It is also the first state to declare the right to the Internet as a basic right. The Indian state has now officially launched its own internet broadband connection. Known as Kerala Fibre Optical Network (KFON), the fibre network is going to provide internet connectivity.

What exactly is KFON? India's Kerala plans to provide internet access to every home

A rice-eating wild elephant has become a cause for concern in the two Southern states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. There's a wild Tusker that reads Russian shops and homes in search of rice in recent weeks. The authorities in both the states have made efforts to move the elephant away from human settlements.

India's rice-eating wild elephant: Arikkomban, who killed 11 people, captured in Tamil Nadu

<p>With the monsoon landing in Kerala on Thursday, parts of the state received isolated heavy rainfall with yellow alert being issued in nine districts of the state and orange alert in one.</p>

<p>The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for Kozhikode district for the day. An orange alert means very heavy rains from 6 cm to 20 cm of rain and a yellow alert means heavy rainfall between 6 and 11 cm. The onset of monsoon in Kerala was announced earlier in the day by the IMD which said it was delayed by a week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, experts are of the view that delay in onset of monsoon in Kerala is not a matter of concern as it is not the first time and expressed hope that the rains in the next 2-3 weeks would make up for the deficit at the beginning. Sekhar Lukose Kuriakose, Member Secretary of the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA), said the monsoon has just set in the state and "we have to wait and see how it unfolds". "It is just the beginning," he said.</p>

<p>"We hope that the rain will catch up and whatever deficit has occurred due to the delay, will be compensated in the next 2-3 weeks," he added. At the same time, he also said that the first Orange alert, after the monsoon was declared to have arrived in Kerala, was issued for Kozhikode for today.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Thunderstorm with light to moderate rainfall and gusty wind speed reaching 40 kmph is likely at one or two places in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad and Kannur districts and light rainfall is likely at one or two places in Kasaragod district of Kerala," a KSDMA release said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kuriakose further said that while Cyclone 'Biparjoy' in the Arabian Sea may have affected the onset of the monsoon, it would not have much of an impact on its intensity. "In fact, IMD has forecast higher than usual rainfall in Kerala this monsoon season," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Warnings have been issued since last week in coastal areas asking fishermen not to venture out to sea, he said. Besides that, warnings related to thunderstorms and lightning were also issued during the day in several districts after the onset of monsoon in Kerala was announced by IMD.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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With the monsoon landing in Kerala on Thursday, parts of the state received isolated heavy rainfall with yellow alert being issued in nine districts of the state and orange alert in one.

With the monsoon landing in Kerala on Thursday, parts of the state received isolated heavy rainfall with yellow alert being issued in nine districts of the state and orange alert in one. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for Kozhikode district for the day. An orange alert means very heavy rains from 6 cm to 20 cm of rain and a yellow alert means heavy rainfall between 6 and 11 cm. The onset of monsoon in Kerala was announced earlier in the day by the IMD which said it was delayed by a week. However, experts are of the view that delay in onset of monsoon in Kerala is not a matter of concern as it is not the first time and expressed hope that the rains in the next 2-3 weeks would make up for the deficit at the beginning. Sekhar Lukose Kuriakose, Member Secretary of the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA), said the monsoon has just set in the state and "we have to wait and see how it unfolds". "It is just the beginning," he said. "We hope that the rain will catch up and whatever deficit has occurred due to the delay, will be compensated in the next 2-3 weeks," he added. At the same time, he also said that the first Orange alert, after the monsoon was declared to have arrived in Kerala, was issued for Kozhikode for today. "Thunderstorm with light to moderate rainfall and gusty wind speed reaching 40 kmph is likely at one or two places in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad and Kannur districts and light rainfall is likely at one or two places in Kasaragod district of Kerala," a KSDMA release said. Kuriakose further said that while Cyclone 'Biparjoy' in the Arabian Sea may have affected the onset of the monsoon, it would not have much of an impact on its intensity. "In fact, IMD has forecast higher than usual rainfall in Kerala this monsoon season," he said. Warnings have been issued since last week in coastal areas asking fishermen not to venture out to sea, he said. Besides that, warnings related to thunderstorms and lightning were also issued during the day in several districts after the onset of monsoon in Kerala was announced by IMD. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Monsoon lands in Kerala, isolated heavy rainfall in parts of the state

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<p>Indians are waiting for the annual rains that are so crucial to the economy. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the Kerala coast might receive monsoon in 48 hours. The IMD forecast mentioned that the latest meteorological features related to the onset of the monsoon in Kerala depict a persistence of westerly winds over the south Arabian Sea. It also said that the westerly winds reached the tropospheric levels, and clouds are over the southeast Arabian Sea, Lakshadweep, and Kerala coasts. The onset of the southwest monsoon could delay the sowing of&nbsp;<em>Kharif</em>&nbsp;crops, especially paddy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Regular rainfall is critical for India's agricultural economy, as 52 per cent of the net cultivated area relies on it. It is also crucial for rejuvenating water reservoirs important for drinking water apart from power generation across the country. Around 40 per cent of India's total food production depends on rain, making it a crucial contributor to India's food security and economic stability.</p>

<h2><strong>Monsoon forecast &amp; warning</strong></h2>

<p>Kerala, Lakshadweep, and south interior Karnataka might witness light or moderate rainfall with thunderstorms, lightning or gusty winds. According to the IMD forecast, there might be isolated or scattered activity over coastal and north interior Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh over the next five days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Manipur and Mizoram might witness isolated heavy rainfall on June 7. IMD has also predicted isolated heavy showers over Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Meghalaya on June 10 and 11, and Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim on June 11. On June 7, West Rajasthan might witness a thundersquall of 50-60 km/h.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In June, most parts of India can expect 'below normal' rains during the four-month southwest monsoon season, ending in September.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-biparjoy-to-intensify-in-next-24-hours-heres-how-it-will-impact-monsoon-in-india-601567">Cyclone 'Biparjoy' to intensify in next 24 hours, here's how it will impact monsoon in India</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Heatwave warning</strong></h2>

<p>According to the latest IMD forecast, Northwest India might see a two to four-degree Celsius rise in maximum temperature during the next five days. Central India might also witness a rise in maximum temperature. Heatwave conditions will continue in some regions of Bihar, West Bengal, east Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh for the next five days.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Cyclonic storm 'Biparjoy'</strong></h2>

<p>Cyclone 'Biparjoy,' last recorded over the east-central and southeast Arabian Sea, is expected to shift northwards. It may intensify into a severe cyclonic storm within the next 24 hours, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The cyclone might impact the weather in the southwestern states of India. The winds might intensify to 100km/h in the areas adjoining to west-central and south Arabian Sea and the northern coasts of Kerala, Karnataka, and Goa.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Indians are waiting for the annual rains that are so crucial to the economy. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the Kerala coast might receive monsoon in 48 hours.

Indians are waiting for the annual rains that are so crucial to the economy. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the Kerala coast might receive monsoon in 48 hours. The IMD forecast mentioned that the latest meteorological features related to the onset of the monsoon in Kerala depict a persistence of westerly winds over the south Arabian Sea. It also said that the westerly winds reached the tropospheric levels, and clouds are over the southeast Arabian Sea, Lakshadweep, and Kerala coasts. The onset of the southwest monsoon could delay the sowing of Kharif crops, especially paddy. Regular rainfall is critical for India's agricultural economy, as 52 per cent of the net cultivated area relies on it. It is also crucial for rejuvenating water reservoirs important for drinking water apart from power generation across the country. Around 40 per cent of India's total food production depends on rain, making it a crucial contributor to India's food security and economic stability. Monsoon forecast & warning Kerala, Lakshadweep, and south interior Karnataka might witness light or moderate rainfall with thunderstorms, lightning or gusty winds. According to the IMD forecast, there might be isolated or scattered activity over coastal and north interior Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh over the next five days. Manipur and Mizoram might witness isolated heavy rainfall on June 7. IMD has also predicted isolated heavy showers over Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Meghalaya on June 10 and 11, and Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim on June 11. On June 7, West Rajasthan might witness a thundersquall of 50-60 km/h. In June, most parts of India can expect 'below normal' rains during the four-month southwest monsoon season, ending in September. ALSO READ | Cyclone 'Biparjoy' to intensify in next 24 hours, here's how it will impact monsoon in India Heatwave warning According to the latest IMD forecast, Northwest India might see a two to four-degree Celsius rise in maximum temperature during the next five days. Central India might also witness a rise in maximum temperature. Heatwave conditions will continue in some regions of Bihar, West Bengal, east Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh for the next five days. Cyclonic storm 'Biparjoy' Cyclone 'Biparjoy,' last recorded over the east-central and southeast Arabian Sea, is expected to shift northwards. It may intensify into a severe cyclonic storm within the next 24 hours, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Wednesday. The cyclone might impact the weather in the southwestern states of India. The winds might intensify to 100km/h in the areas adjoining to west-central and south Arabian Sea and the northern coasts of Kerala, Karnataka, and Goa. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Weather update: Monsoon might arrive in Kerala in next 48 hours, says IMD forecast

The monsoon missed its onset date in Kerala on June 4 with the India meteorological department (IMD) anticipating a further delay of three to four days.

India: Monsoon onset delayed by 2-3 days

<p>Thirty-seven days after he was first tranquillised, hauled onto a truck and translocated from his natural habitat in Kerala, 35-year-old wild tusker ‘Arikomban’ (rice-eating tusker in Malayalam) is now undergoing the same ordeal again&nbsp;in the adjoining state Tamil Nadu. This shows the irony of the situation, where human settlements in forests and forest fringe areas are on the rise, but in the name of “Conservation and Protection” wild animals are being translocated from their rightful home.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In 37days, this wild tusker has been hit with multiple tranquilliser darts, hauled onto trucks, translocated dozens of kms..First, it was the turn of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kerala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kerala</a> forest dept, now it is the turn of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a><br />
<br />
We continue to eat into forests&amp; fringes, while animals are shunted out! <a href="https://t.co/4ViAM6PMwD">pic.twitter.com/4ViAM6PMwD</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1665589603129257984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>“Arikomban the wild tusker was safely tranquillised early hours today in Cumbum East Range by a team of Forest Veterinary Surgeons and Forest Department Officials. The elephant is being translocated to a suitable habitat where the Tamil Nadu Forest department will continue to monitor him,” Supriya Sahu, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary Environment Climate Change and Forests, Government of Tamil Nadu, had tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How the wild tusker became 'Arikomban'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The wild tusker's only innocent mistake is that he had developed a fondness for rice and began to raid ration shops and settlements to gorge on some carbs. While there are no recorded instances of violent actions by the tusker, it was claimed by the Kerala Forest Department that the tusker&nbsp;killed seven people in recent months&nbsp;near his original habitat in Idukki.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There was also pressure from local residents to relocate the elephant. Based on this, it was proposed that the Kerala Forest Department would capture and turn 'Arikomban'&nbsp;(as he was popularly known among locals in Idukki) into a semi-wild, trained elephant (a cruel process meant to break the elephant's natural ways and make him a captive).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following staunch opposition from activists and others who stated that the elephant was harmless and had not killed any humans, the Kerala High Court declared that the tusker would be translocated. Amid tight security, in the last week of April, the tusker was tranquilised, radio-collared and then translocated from Idukki to the Periyar Tiger Reserve(a drive of nearly 100 kms). While both locations are in Kerala, the Periyar Tiger Reserve is situated close to the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Crossing over from Kerala to Tamil Nadu</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Arikomban was released in the Periyar Tiger Reserve region on April 29th and by the first week of May, he had crossed over into the Megamalai range in Tamil Nadu's Theni district. Known to walk dozens of kilometres every day, wild elephants move across regions in search of food and water. Thanks to a radio collar around his neck, forest department officials from both Tamil Nadu and Kerala have been able to monitor the elephant's location in real time. In Tamil Nadu, Kerala's 'Arikomban'&nbsp;got an equivalent Tamil name "Arisi Komban"&nbsp;and he began to make forays into human settlements in his new habitat as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, forest officials from Theni in Tamil Nadu told WION that the radio collar placed on the elephant's neck is operational and the movement of the animal is being tracked both by radio telemetry and GPS.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Forest department teams have also advised those staying in the region to not venture out unnecessarily and particularly have been advised against venturing out late in the evenings. Forest department personnel are monitoring the elephant's movement round-the-clock and alerting those in the region, the official had said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the elephant started frequenting towns in Cumbum, the Tamil Nadu forest department decided to capture him again and relocate him deeper into the forests, into an undisclosed location on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thereby, the entire process of tracking, tranquillisation, using trained 'kumki'&nbsp;elephants to haul the semi-conscious tusker onto the modified truck and then ferrying him away for release deep in the forest - all had to be carried out once again. While many see such translocations as a heroic effort, it must be remembered that translocations can have an adverse impact on the elephant's health and well-being.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Thirty-seven days after he was first tranquillised, hauled onto a truck and translocated from his natural habitat in Kerala, 35-year-old wild tusker ‘Arikomban’ (rice-eating tusker in Malayalam) is now undergoing the same ordeal again in the adjoining state Tamil Nadu.

Thirty-seven days after he was first tranquillised, hauled onto a truck and translocated from his natural habitat in Kerala, 35-year-old wild tusker ‘Arikomban’ (rice-eating tusker in Malayalam) is now undergoing the same ordeal again in the adjoining state Tamil Nadu. This shows the irony of the situation, where human settlements in forests and forest fringe areas are on the rise, but in the name of “Conservation and Protection” wild animals are being translocated from their rightful home. In 37days, this wild tusker has been hit with multiple tranquilliser darts, hauled onto trucks, translocated dozens of kms..First, it was the turn of #kerala forest dept, now it is the turn of #TamilNadu We continue to eat into forests& fringes, while animals are shunted out! pic.twitter.com/4ViAM6PMwD — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) June 5, 2023 × “Arikomban the wild tusker was safely tranquillised early hours today in Cumbum East Range by a team of Forest Veterinary Surgeons and Forest Department Officials. The elephant is being translocated to a suitable habitat where the Tamil Nadu Forest department will continue to monitor him,” Supriya Sahu, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary Environment Climate Change and Forests, Government of Tamil Nadu, had tweeted. How the wild tusker became 'Arikomban' The wild tusker's only innocent mistake is that he had developed a fondness for rice and began to raid ration shops and settlements to gorge on some carbs. While there are no recorded instances of violent actions by the tusker, it was claimed by the Kerala Forest Department that the tusker killed seven people in recent months near his original habitat in Idukki. There was also pressure from local residents to relocate the elephant. Based on this, it was proposed that the Kerala Forest Department would capture and turn 'Arikomban' (as he was popularly known among locals in Idukki) into a semi-wild, trained elephant (a cruel process meant to break the elephant's natural ways and make him a captive). Following staunch opposition from activists and others who stated that the elephant was harmless and had not killed any humans, the Kerala High Court declared that the tusker would be translocated. Amid tight security, in the last week of April, the tusker was tranquilised, radio-collared and then translocated from Idukki to the Periyar Tiger Reserve(a drive of nearly 100 kms). While both locations are in Kerala, the Periyar Tiger Reserve is situated close to the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. Crossing over from Kerala to Tamil Nadu Arikomban was released in the Periyar Tiger Reserve region on April 29th and by the first week of May, he had crossed over into the Megamalai range in Tamil Nadu's Theni district. Known to walk dozens of kilometres every day, wild elephants move across regions in search of food and water. Thanks to a radio collar around his neck, forest department officials from both Tamil Nadu and Kerala have been able to monitor the elephant's location in real time. In Tamil Nadu, Kerala's 'Arikomban' got an equivalent Tamil name "Arisi Komban" and he began to make forays into human settlements in his new habitat as well. Earlier, forest officials from Theni in Tamil Nadu told WION that the radio collar placed on the elephant's neck is operational and the movement of the animal is being tracked both by radio telemetry and GPS. Forest department teams have also advised those staying in the region to not venture out unnecessarily and particularly have been advised against venturing out late in the evenings. Forest department personnel are monitoring the elephant's movement round-the-clock and alerting those in the region, the official had said. As the elephant started frequenting towns in Cumbum, the Tamil Nadu forest department decided to capture him again and relocate him deeper into the forests, into an undisclosed location on Monday. Thereby, the entire process of tracking, tranquillisation, using trained 'kumki' elephants to haul the semi-conscious tusker onto the modified truck and then ferrying him away for release deep in the forest - all had to be carried out once again. While many see such translocations as a heroic effort, it must be remembered that translocations can have an adverse impact on the elephant's health and well-being. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India | Tranquillised, translocated twice in 37 days: Sad plight of wild tusker ‘Arikomban’

<p>Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of Franco Mulakkal, the bishop of the Diocese of Jalandhar in the northern Indian state of Punjab.&nbsp;The bishop had been accused of repeatedly raping a nun over a two-year period in Kerala but was acquitted last year. The Vatican made the announcement on Thursday, providing no additional details regarding the decision.</p>

<p>"Today, 1 June 2023, the Holy Father Pope Francis has accepted the resignation submitted by the Rt Rev Franco Mulakkal as Bishop of Jullundur," the Apostolic Nunciature (top-level diplomatic mission of the Holy See) in India said in a statement.</p>

<p>"In this regard, the Apostolic Nunciature wishes to specify that the Holy See respects the verdict of the Additional District and Sessions Court, Kottayam, Kerala, acquitting Bishop Mulakkal from the allegations concerning him, as well as the appeal against the acquittal, which has been admitted by the Kerala High Court," it added.</p>

<p>Bishop Franco Mulakkal said that the Holy See has accepted his resignation today, 1 June 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Given the still divisive situation about the aforesaid matter in the Diocese of Jalandhar, the resignation has been requested from the Rt Rev Mulakkal not as a disciplinary measure imposed upon him, but as pro bono Ecclesiae, especially for the good of the Jalandhar diocese, which needs a new bishop," the Apostolic Nunciature's statement added.</p>

<p>Mulakkal as per reports played victim as he expressed his gratitude thanking those who were by his side to lend him their support.&nbsp;"May our sufferings and pains and the tears I have shed before the Almighty be the reason for the renewal of the church, the strengthening of faith, my own sanctification, and the glory of God," the bishop said.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Franco Mulakkal?</strong></h2>

<p>Franco Mulakkal, aged 59, was appointed the bishop of the Diocese of Jalandhar in Punjab state in 2013. He gained significant media attention and controversy due to the allegations of sexual abuse made against him.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/highly-decorated-australian-soldier-loses-case-against-media-giants-amidst-grave-war-crimes-allegations-599163">Highly-decorated Australian soldier loses case against media giants amidst grave war crimes allegations</a></p>

<p>In 2018, a Catholic nun accused Bishop Franco Mulakkal of raping her thirteen times between 2014 and 2016 while he visited St. Francis Mission Home in Kuravilangad town in Kerala.&nbsp;He temporarily stepped down from his position in 2018 after the allegations were levelled against him. The accusations sparked widespread protests and outrage, both within and outside the Catholic community in India.</p>

<p>The nun claimed that the police were neglecting her complaint while focusing on the one filed by Mulakkal against her brother.&nbsp;In a distressing turn of events, the church removed the nun from her position as Mother Superior. Despite these setbacks, she remained steadfast in her pursuit of justice.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tragedy-in-indias-haryana-minor-girl-strangulates-younger-brother-as-she-felt-parents-loved-him-more-599137">Tragedy in India's Haryana: Minor girl strangulates younger brother as she felt parents loved him more</a></p>

<p>In July 2018, the nun provided an in-camera statement to a first-class magistrate in Changanassery, responding to a request from the Special Investigation Team (SIT) handling the case.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shortly after, women leaders from various Delhi-based organizations submitted a memorandum to the Vatican's ambassador in Delhi, urging the Pope to intervene and remove Bishop Mulakkal from his pastoral responsibilities.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Singer Sia reveals Autism diagnosis, reflects on personal journey | Details</strong></p>

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<p>On August 8, 2018, the SIT initiated an investigation into Bishop Mulakkal. Around the same time, the bishop's security guards allegedly mistreated the media and damaged their cameras.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Outraged by these events, the Joint Christian Council staged a hunger strike in Kochi on August 30, 2018, demanding the immediate arrest of Bishop Mulakkal.</p>

<h2><strong>Bishop Mulakkal requested Pope to relieve him&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In a letter to the pope two weeks later, Bishop Mulakkal requested to be relieved of his duties to focus on the then-ongoing legal proceedings involving the nun. Following his request, he underwent a seven-hour interrogation at the Thrippunithura Police Women's Cell office.</p>

<p>Finally, on September 22, 2018, the police arrested Bishop Mulakkal after a three-day inquiry and subsequently remanded him into custody.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Acquitted in Kerala nun rape case&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Although Mulakkal was acquitted by a court in January 2022, both the investigating officer and the nun have appealed the verdict. The nun moved the Kerala High Court against the trial court verdict in the case.</p>

<p>Reports from Indian media suggested that Pope Francis met with Mulakkal in February, but the Vatican did not disclose any information about the meeting. It is customary for bishops to submit their resignation upon reaching the age of 75.</p>

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Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of Franco Mulakkal, the bishop of the Diocese of Jalandhar in the northern Indian state of Punjab. The bishop had been accused of repeatedly raping a nun over a two-year period in Kerala but was acquitted last year.

Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of Franco Mulakkal, the bishop of the Diocese of Jalandhar in the northern Indian state of Punjab. The bishop had been accused of repeatedly raping a nun over a two-year period in Kerala but was acquitted last year. The Vatican made the announcement on Thursday, providing no additional details regarding the decision. "Today, 1 June 2023, the Holy Father Pope Francis has accepted the resignation submitted by the Rt Rev Franco Mulakkal as Bishop of Jullundur," the Apostolic Nunciature (top-level diplomatic mission of the Holy See) in India said in a statement. "In this regard, the Apostolic Nunciature wishes to specify that the Holy See respects the verdict of the Additional District and Sessions Court, Kottayam, Kerala, acquitting Bishop Mulakkal from the allegations concerning him, as well as the appeal against the acquittal, which has been admitted by the Kerala High Court," it added. Bishop Franco Mulakkal said that the Holy See has accepted his resignation today, 1 June 2023. "Given the still divisive situation about the aforesaid matter in the Diocese of Jalandhar, the resignation has been requested from the Rt Rev Mulakkal not as a disciplinary measure imposed upon him, but as pro bono Ecclesiae, especially for the good of the Jalandhar diocese, which needs a new bishop," the Apostolic Nunciature's statement added. Mulakkal as per reports played victim as he expressed his gratitude thanking those who were by his side to lend him their support. "May our sufferings and pains and the tears I have shed before the Almighty be the reason for the renewal of the church, the strengthening of faith, my own sanctification, and the glory of God," the bishop said. Who is Franco Mulakkal? Franco Mulakkal, aged 59, was appointed the bishop of the Diocese of Jalandhar in Punjab state in 2013. He gained significant media attention and controversy due to the allegations of sexual abuse made against him. Also Read | Highly-decorated Australian soldier loses case against media giants amidst grave war crimes allegations In 2018, a Catholic nun accused Bishop Franco Mulakkal of raping her thirteen times between 2014 and 2016 while he visited St. Francis Mission Home in Kuravilangad town in Kerala. He temporarily stepped down from his position in 2018 after the allegations were levelled against him. The accusations sparked widespread protests and outrage, both within and outside the Catholic community in India. The nun claimed that the police were neglecting her complaint while focusing on the one filed by Mulakkal against her brother. In a distressing turn of events, the church removed the nun from her position as Mother Superior. Despite these setbacks, she remained steadfast in her pursuit of justice. Also Read | Tragedy in India's Haryana: Minor girl strangulates younger brother as she felt parents loved him more In July 2018, the nun provided an in-camera statement to a first-class magistrate in Changanassery, responding to a request from the Special Investigation Team (SIT) handling the case. Shortly after, women leaders from various Delhi-based organizations submitted a memorandum to the Vatican's ambassador in Delhi, urging the Pope to intervene and remove Bishop Mulakkal from his pastoral responsibilities. Watch | Singer Sia reveals Autism diagnosis, reflects on personal journey | Details × On August 8, 2018, the SIT initiated an investigation into Bishop Mulakkal. Around the same time, the bishop's security guards allegedly mistreated the media and damaged their cameras. Outraged by these events, the Joint Christian Council staged a hunger strike in Kochi on August 30, 2018, demanding the immediate arrest of Bishop Mulakkal. Bishop Mulakkal requested Pope to relieve him In a letter to the pope two weeks later, Bishop Mulakkal requested to be relieved of his duties to focus on the then-ongoing legal proceedings involving the nun. Following his request, he underwent a seven-hour interrogation at the Thrippunithura Police Women's Cell office. Finally, on September 22, 2018, the police arrested Bishop Mulakkal after a three-day inquiry and subsequently remanded him into custody. Acquitted in Kerala nun rape case Although Mulakkal was acquitted by a court in January 2022, both the investigating officer and the nun have appealed the verdict. The nun moved the Kerala High Court against the trial court verdict in the case. Reports from Indian media suggested that Pope Francis met with Mulakkal in February, but the Vatican did not disclose any information about the meeting. It is customary for bishops to submit their resignation upon reaching the age of 75. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Pope accepts resignation of bishop of Jalandhar Franco Mulakkal accused of raping nun

The Indian Space Research Organisation conducted the fifth launch of 2023 as it lifted off a 2232-kilogram satellite, part of its NavIC series, into space. The NVS-1 launched onboard GSLV F12 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

ISRO launches GSLV in text-book mission, deploys next-gen NVS-1 Navic satellite

<p>A major whale vomit&nbsp;(ambergris) smuggling racket has been busted in India which threatened to pose a significant threat to the country's flora and fauna. The authorities&nbsp;seized 18.1 kg of ambergris worth $3.8 million (Rs 31.67 crore) in the black market off the Tuticorin coast in the southern state of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bust was conducted by the&nbsp;Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) after receiving a tip-off. Acting on the intel, the authorities laid a trap and managed to apprehend five people in a vehicle near the&nbsp;Harbour Beach coast of Tuticorin on the night of May 18.</p>

<p>Upon searching the vehicle, the officers managed to unearth 18.1 kg of ambergris, while the five smugglers confessed to their involvement in the case. Of the five smugglers four hailed from Kerala while only one was a native. They all have been remanded to judicial custody, the DRI&nbsp;informed in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-whales-help-store-planet-heating-carbon-emissions-544848"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: Whales help store planet-heating carbon emissions</strong></a></p>

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<p>The smuggling of&nbsp;whale vomit has become a major black market activity in recent years, especially in India. DRI has seized around&nbsp;&nbsp;40.52 kg of ambergris valued at $6.5 million (Rs&nbsp;54 crore) in the international market in the last two years alone - all of which was being smuggled out of India via the Tuticorin coast.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Previous instances&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In September last year,&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) busted a similar whale vomit smuggling racket. During the raid, STF managed to recover 4.12 kg of&nbsp;ambergris which was thought to be worth $1.2 million (Rs 10 crore).&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/megalophobia-activated-giant-whale-sinks-44ft-boat-in-pacific-ocean-574543"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Megalophobia activated: Giant whale sinks 44 ft boat in Pacific Ocean</strong></a></p>

<p>In June 2021, Mumbai police seized nine kg of ambergris in two separate cases from smugglers in the Mulund area of the city.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is&nbsp;ambergris?</strong></h2>

<p>Generally referred to as whale vomit,&nbsp;ambergris is derived from&nbsp;old French words<strong>&nbsp;</strong>'amber' and 'gris', roughly translating to grey amber.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A whale produces this solid waxy substance as a form of vomit which fishermen often find floating in the sea. It is called Treasure of the Sea or Floating Gold as perfume companies use the&nbsp;ambrein alcohol extracted from ambergris to sustain scent.</p>

<p>The rarity of the commodity is the reason it is banned in some countries, such as the United Kingdom. In India, the possession and sale of ambergris is forbidden under the&nbsp;&nbsp;Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/whales-can-help-fight-the-climate-change-scientists-say-544934"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Whales can help fight the climate change, scientists say</strong></a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A major whale vomit (ambergris) smuggling racket has been busted in India which threatened to pose a significant threat to the country's flora and fauna. The authorities seized 18.

A major whale vomit (ambergris) smuggling racket has been busted in India which threatened to pose a significant threat to the country's flora and fauna. The authorities seized 18.1 kg of ambergris worth $3.8 million (Rs 31.67 crore) in the black market off the Tuticorin coast in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. The bust was conducted by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) after receiving a tip-off. Acting on the intel, the authorities laid a trap and managed to apprehend five people in a vehicle near the Harbour Beach coast of Tuticorin on the night of May 18. Upon searching the vehicle, the officers managed to unearth 18.1 kg of ambergris, while the five smugglers confessed to their involvement in the case. Of the five smugglers four hailed from Kerala while only one was a native. They all have been remanded to judicial custody, the DRI informed in a statement. WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Whales help store planet-heating carbon emissions × The smuggling of whale vomit has become a major black market activity in recent years, especially in India. DRI has seized around 40.52 kg of ambergris valued at $6.5 million (Rs 54 crore) in the international market in the last two years alone - all of which was being smuggled out of India via the Tuticorin coast. Previous instances In September last year, Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) busted a similar whale vomit smuggling racket. During the raid, STF managed to recover 4.12 kg of ambergris which was thought to be worth $1.2 million (Rs 10 crore). ALSO READ | Megalophobia activated: Giant whale sinks 44 ft boat in Pacific Ocean In June 2021, Mumbai police seized nine kg of ambergris in two separate cases from smugglers in the Mulund area of the city. What is ambergris? Generally referred to as whale vomit, ambergris is derived from old French words 'amber' and 'gris', roughly translating to grey amber. A whale produces this solid waxy substance as a form of vomit which fishermen often find floating in the sea. It is called Treasure of the Sea or Floating Gold as perfume companies use the ambrein alcohol extracted from ambergris to sustain scent. The rarity of the commodity is the reason it is banned in some countries, such as the United Kingdom. In India, the possession and sale of ambergris is forbidden under the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972. ALSO READ | Whales can help fight the climate change, scientists say (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Whale vomit worth $3.8 million seized in Tamil Nadu, five smugglers arrested

<p>Translocating a wild animal in the hope of reducing potentially adverse man-animal interactions need not always yield effective results. The best example of this is the recent case from Kerala, where a wild tusker was translocated to a different region, after complaints of the elephant being a threat to the local people. Barely a few days after being tranquillized, hauled onto a truck and then transported a distance of more than 80 kilometres, the wild tusker has again begun to venture close to human settlements - now in the adjoining state of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>‘Arikomban’ (translates to ‘rice-tusker’) in Malayalam, earned the moniker for his raids on rice shops and settlements in the Idukki district in Kerala, where he originally belonged. There were also some claims that the wild tusker had fatally attacked a handful of individuals there, thus prompting those living in the region to demand for his relocation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is often reported that wild elephants venture out into towns, raid crops and cause damage to property. However, this points to the larger issue of habitat destruction, towns and settlements coming up on forest fringes and natural vegetation not being available in abundance for wildlife.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While it is being claimed that this particular elephant killed a few people, there are no clear indications in this regard. However, the demands of the local people were taken cognisance of and the Kerala Forest Department planned to capture the wild tusker and turn him into a trained semi-wild elephant, a gruesome and painful process that takes months. Vehement opposition from activists and a court decision ensured that the only way ahead was to go for a translocation.</p>

<p>Finally, the tusker was translocated from Chinnakanal in Kerala's Idukki district to the Periyar Tiger Reserve (ferried a distance of nearly 80 km), close to the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. The entire operation was carried out by the Kerala forest department, with police vehicles ensuring the smooth movement of the convoy and avoiding any untoward incidents along the way. While a hostile reaction was anticipated, those living in the regions close to the Periyar Tiger Reserve (where the elephant was being released) had even performed a traditional 'Puja' to welcome the new inhabitant of the wild.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Barely a few days after being released in the Periyar Tiger Reserve, the pachyderm ventured into the estates in the Megamalai range in Tamil Nadu's Theni district. Known to walk dozens of kilometres every day, wild elephants move across regions in search of food and water. Thanks to a radio collar around his neck, Forest department officials from both Tamil Nadu and Kerala have been able to monitor the elephant's location real-time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this week, during the wee hours, the tusker got back to his old ways and ventured close to a ration shop in Megamalai and attempted to break open a window, possibly to get hold of the rice stored within. Later, the tusker is said to have ventured back into the forest. Images from the area showed the tusker's giant footprints in the vicinity of the settlements and the ration shop. Carrying on the moniker from Kerala, those in Tamil Nadu refer to the wild tusker as 'Arisi Komban' (translates to rice tusker in Tamil).</p>

<p>Forest Officials from Theni in Tamil Nadu told WION that the radio collar placed on the elephant's neck is operational and the movement of the animal is being tracked both by radio telemetry and GPS. Those staying in the region have been advised to not venture out unnecessarily and particularly have been advised against venturing out late in the evenings. We have forest staffers who are monitoring the elephant's movement round-the-clock and alerting those in the region, the official added.</p>

<p>Since the time the tusker ventured into the Megamalai region, the district administration has temporarily suspended tourism and increased the number of Police personnel at the checkposts that lead to Megamalai.<br />
<br />
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Translocating a wild animal in the hope of reducing potentially adverse man-animal interactions need not always yield effective results. The best example of this is the recent case from Kerala, where a wild tusker was translocated to a different region, after complaints of the elephant being a threat to the local people.

Translocating a wild animal in the hope of reducing potentially adverse man-animal interactions need not always yield effective results. The best example of this is the recent case from Kerala, where a wild tusker was translocated to a different region, after complaints of the elephant being a threat to the local people. Barely a few days after being tranquillized, hauled onto a truck and then transported a distance of more than 80 kilometres, the wild tusker has again begun to venture close to human settlements - now in the adjoining state of Tamil Nadu. ‘Arikomban’ (translates to ‘rice-tusker’) in Malayalam, earned the moniker for his raids on rice shops and settlements in the Idukki district in Kerala, where he originally belonged. There were also some claims that the wild tusker had fatally attacked a handful of individuals there, thus prompting those living in the region to demand for his relocation. It is often reported that wild elephants venture out into towns, raid crops and cause damage to property. However, this points to the larger issue of habitat destruction, towns and settlements coming up on forest fringes and natural vegetation not being available in abundance for wildlife. While it is being claimed that this particular elephant killed a few people, there are no clear indications in this regard. However, the demands of the local people were taken cognisance of and the Kerala Forest Department planned to capture the wild tusker and turn him into a trained semi-wild elephant, a gruesome and painful process that takes months. Vehement opposition from activists and a court decision ensured that the only way ahead was to go for a translocation. Finally, the tusker was translocated from Chinnakanal in Kerala's Idukki district to the Periyar Tiger Reserve (ferried a distance of nearly 80 km), close to the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. The entire operation was carried out by the Kerala forest department, with police vehicles ensuring the smooth movement of the convoy and avoiding any untoward incidents along the way. While a hostile reaction was anticipated, those living in the regions close to the Periyar Tiger Reserve (where the elephant was being released) had even performed a traditional 'Puja' to welcome the new inhabitant of the wild. Barely a few days after being released in the Periyar Tiger Reserve, the pachyderm ventured into the estates in the Megamalai range in Tamil Nadu's Theni district. Known to walk dozens of kilometres every day, wild elephants move across regions in search of food and water. Thanks to a radio collar around his neck, Forest department officials from both Tamil Nadu and Kerala have been able to monitor the elephant's location real-time. Earlier this week, during the wee hours, the tusker got back to his old ways and ventured close to a ration shop in Megamalai and attempted to break open a window, possibly to get hold of the rice stored within. Later, the tusker is said to have ventured back into the forest. Images from the area showed the tusker's giant footprints in the vicinity of the settlements and the ration shop. Carrying on the moniker from Kerala, those in Tamil Nadu refer to the wild tusker as 'Arisi Komban' (translates to rice tusker in Tamil). Forest Officials from Theni in Tamil Nadu told WION that the radio collar placed on the elephant's neck is operational and the movement of the animal is being tracked both by radio telemetry and GPS. Those staying in the region have been advised to not venture out unnecessarily and particularly have been advised against venturing out late in the evenings. We have forest staffers who are monitoring the elephant's movement round-the-clock and alerting those in the region, the official added. Since the time the tusker ventured into the Megamalai region, the district administration has temporarily suspended tourism and increased the number of Police personnel at the checkposts that lead to Megamalai. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: From 'Arikomban' in Kerala to 'Arisi komban' in Tamil Nadu- A wild tusker's journey

India is facing a new threat. Some scientists view India's Kerala as a ‘global hotspot’ for the potential emergence of a new coronavirus. Another virus too emerged here in 2018, called the Nipah virus. The virus is again finding new ways to enter in the human body.

How a bat virus from India's Kerala found new ways to infect people

<p>The boat tragedy in southern Indian state of Kerala made news everywhere. But it has caused profound grief for Kunnummal Saithalavi, who lost 11 members of&nbsp;his family in the accident. Twenty-two people lost lives in the boat tragedy. This means half of those dead were relatives of Kunnummal Saithalavi.</p>

<p>The family members had gone to Thooval Theeram, a tourist attraction in Kerala's Malappuram district where the boat tragedy took place. As the news of the boat accident began doing the rounds, Kunnummal Saithalavi tried calling the family members on their mobile phones.</p>

<p>"I tried them on three different mobile phones they used [but got no response]," he said, as quoted by BBC.</p>

<p>Kunnummal Saithalavi and his brother Kunnummal Siraj stay with their family and their mother in Puthankadappuram, a few kilometres away&nbsp;from the site of the tragedy.</p>

<p>The family decided to visit Thooval Theeram as Saithalavi's sister had come visiting. The family also invited his adopted brother Kunnumal Jabir and his family along with their neighbour Ashifa and her two children. The group now comprised 19 people.</p>

<p>"I warned them not to take the boat ride as I was sure boating at that time would not be safe," he told BBC.</p>

<p>Neighbour of his family&nbsp;Ashifa was quoted by BBC as saying that when the group decided to head back home, the boat operator started offering huge discounts on ticket prices and even free tickets for children.</p>

<p>"It was an attractive offer," said Ashifa.</p>

<p>"We accepted it but I changed my mind because of safety concerns."</p>

<p>There were reportedly 50 people on the boat, almost double of&nbsp;its capacity when it overturned. The operator of the boat did not have permission to take the boat into the water after dark.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-doctors-protest-after-22-year-old-doctor-is-stabbed-to-death-by-patient-591131">India: Patient stabs to death 22-year-old female medic in Kerala, doctors protest</a></strong></p>

<p>After the boat overturned and Saithalavi couldn't reach his relatives' mobile phones, he rushed to the site close to the water and took a boat docked there to reach the exact location of the tragedy. Saithalavi jumped into the water and even pulled up a body, only to realise it was his niece.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Only four persons in the family from the group that had gone to Thooval Theeram came back.</p>

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The boat tragedy in southern Indian state of Kerala made news everywhere. But it has caused profound grief for Kunnummal Saithalavi, who lost 11 members of his family in the accident.

The boat tragedy in southern Indian state of Kerala made news everywhere. But it has caused profound grief for Kunnummal Saithalavi, who lost 11 members of his family in the accident. Twenty-two people lost lives in the boat tragedy. This means half of those dead were relatives of Kunnummal Saithalavi. The family members had gone to Thooval Theeram, a tourist attraction in Kerala's Malappuram district where the boat tragedy took place. As the news of the boat accident began doing the rounds, Kunnummal Saithalavi tried calling the family members on their mobile phones. "I tried them on three different mobile phones they used [but got no response]," he said, as quoted by BBC. Kunnummal Saithalavi and his brother Kunnummal Siraj stay with their family and their mother in Puthankadappuram, a few kilometres away from the site of the tragedy. The family decided to visit Thooval Theeram as Saithalavi's sister had come visiting. The family also invited his adopted brother Kunnumal Jabir and his family along with their neighbour Ashifa and her two children. The group now comprised 19 people. "I warned them not to take the boat ride as I was sure boating at that time would not be safe," he told BBC. Neighbour of his family Ashifa was quoted by BBC as saying that when the group decided to head back home, the boat operator started offering huge discounts on ticket prices and even free tickets for children. "It was an attractive offer," said Ashifa. "We accepted it but I changed my mind because of safety concerns." There were reportedly 50 people on the boat, almost double of its capacity when it overturned. The operator of the boat did not have permission to take the boat into the water after dark. Also Read | India: Patient stabs to death 22-year-old female medic in Kerala, doctors protest After the boat overturned and Saithalavi couldn't reach his relatives' mobile phones, he rushed to the site close to the water and took a boat docked there to reach the exact location of the tragedy. Saithalavi jumped into the water and even pulled up a body, only to realise it was his niece. Only four persons in the family from the group that had gone to Thooval Theeram came back. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Kerala boat tragedy: This man lost 11 members of his family, just four returned

<p>A drunk patient who was brought to a hospital for treating his wounds stabbed to death a 22-year-old doctor and injured many others in the southern Indian state of Kerala. Sandeep, 42,&nbsp;a suspended school teacher, was reportedly undergoing de-addiction therapy and was taken to the hospital by police personnel after he had created ruckus at his residence and injured himself.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In a gruesome incident from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kerala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kerala</a> , an inebriated man(undergoing de-addiction therapy) stabbed 22yr old Dr. Vandana to death and injured a handful of cops, hospital staff<br />
<br />
After he got violent&amp; injured himself at home, cops took him to the hospital..there he committed murder <a href="https://t.co/lpOPxo2MXK">pic.twitter.com/lpOPxo2MXK</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1656235558254055424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The violent attack took place at the Kottarakkara Taluk Hospital in the early hours of Wednesday. After his wounds were dressed by a nurse, Sandeep reportedly picked up a pair of surgical scissors and went on a stabbing spree. He is said to have attacked the police personnel who brought him to the hospital and then went on to stab Dr. Vandana Das, a final year medical student serving as a house surgeon there. She sustained injuries to her head, neck and spine. He then went on to injure other hospital staff, vandalised the hospital till he was finally overpowered and restrained by security staff and other bystanders.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Medical fraternity in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kerala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kerala</a> protests and demands action in the aftermath of an incident where a 22yr old lady doctor was brutally stabbed to death by an inebriated, violent patient who was brought for treatment by the Police<br />
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Reports say the patient was a drug/alcohol addict <a href="https://t.co/zILAphHn22">https://t.co/zILAphHn22</a> <a href="https://t.co/u7HUhlH4XX">pic.twitter.com/u7HUhlH4XX</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1656237698997452800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Severely injured, the young doctor was immediately moved to a hospital in Kerala's capital Thiruvananthapuram, where she succumbed to her injuries. The incident has raised several questions and prompted protests from across the medical fraternity in Kerala.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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A drunk patient who was brought to a hospital for treating his wounds stabbed to death a 22-year-old doctor and injured many others in the southern Indian state of Kerala.

A drunk patient who was brought to a hospital for treating his wounds stabbed to death a 22-year-old doctor and injured many others in the southern Indian state of Kerala. Sandeep, 42, a suspended school teacher, was reportedly undergoing de-addiction therapy and was taken to the hospital by police personnel after he had created ruckus at his residence and injured himself. In a gruesome incident from #kerala , an inebriated man(undergoing de-addiction therapy) stabbed 22yr old Dr. Vandana to death and injured a handful of cops, hospital staff After he got violent& injured himself at home, cops took him to the hospital..there he committed murder pic.twitter.com/lpOPxo2MXK — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) May 10, 2023 × The violent attack took place at the Kottarakkara Taluk Hospital in the early hours of Wednesday. After his wounds were dressed by a nurse, Sandeep reportedly picked up a pair of surgical scissors and went on a stabbing spree. He is said to have attacked the police personnel who brought him to the hospital and then went on to stab Dr. Vandana Das, a final year medical student serving as a house surgeon there. She sustained injuries to her head, neck and spine. He then went on to injure other hospital staff, vandalised the hospital till he was finally overpowered and restrained by security staff and other bystanders. Medical fraternity in #kerala protests and demands action in the aftermath of an incident where a 22yr old lady doctor was brutally stabbed to death by an inebriated, violent patient who was brought for treatment by the Police Reports say the patient was a drug/alcohol addict https://t.co/zILAphHn22 pic.twitter.com/u7HUhlH4XX — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) May 10, 2023 × Severely injured, the young doctor was immediately moved to a hospital in Kerala's capital Thiruvananthapuram, where she succumbed to her injuries. The incident has raised several questions and prompted protests from across the medical fraternity in Kerala. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Patient stabs to death 22-year-old female medic in Kerala, doctors protest

<p>The Kerala boat accident that killed 22 and injured many has opened a can of worms about regulatory malpractice, oversight, and negligence that culminated into one of the state’s deadliest accidents.</p>

<p>On Sunday night, the operator of the tour boat, Atlantic, not only kept its services open well beyond the stipulated hours but also let greed take over as the vessel was overcrowded with tourists, including women and children.</p>

<p>Police officers said that the vessel, which was initially a fishing boat, carried at least 30-40 passengers onboard.</p>

<p>Eyewitnesses told local news outlet Manorama that the boat operators continued to invite more people to join saying that it was the ‘last trip of the day’, despite the boat being overloaded.</p>

<p>PK Kunhalikutty, an MLA of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), told PTI that the boat violated the rule of vessels not being allowed to operate after 6 pm.</p>

<p>The incident took place around 7 pm (local time) near an estuary in Thooval Theeram Beach in the Tanur area.</p>

<p>On Monday, police caught the owner of the boat from the Kozhikode beach area after a 24-hour manhunt.</p>

<p>A senior police officer of Malappuram district confirmed to PTI news agency that the boat owner, Nasar, has been caught.</p>

<p>"He has been caught from the Calicut (Kozhikode) beach area. He has not been arrested formally. He will be brought here (Malappuram)," the officer, who has not been named, was quoted as saying.</p>

<h2><strong>Kerala boat tragedy: 22 dead after houseboat capsizes&nbsp;</strong></h2>

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<h2><strong>How did the tragedy happen?</strong></h2>

<p>Police officers said that the boat was carrying 40 passengers, well beyond its capacity, which made it tilt to one side, and eventually, it capsized.</p>

<p>The accident happened in the backwaters of Thooval Theeram, which is situated on the banks of the estuary of the Poorapuzha River joining the Arabian Sea.</p>

<p>The beach was crowded with visitors due to the holiday. The accident happened while passengers were returning from the trip.</p>

<p>The first rescue boat took almost 15 minutes to reach the spot due to a lack of light.</p>

<h2><strong>Was it really a ferry boat?</strong></h2>

<p>No. According to officials, the double-decker boat was initially a fishing boat. It is alleged that the owner modified it into such a boat for tourism and illegally bought a licence to run it as a passenger boat.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-boat-capsize-kills-22-indian-navy-deploys-two-helos-and-15-divers-590191">Boat capsizes in Kerala, killing 22; Indian Navy deploys two helos and 15 divers</a></p>

<p>According to local reports, several complaints were made against the Atlantic boat owner and even senior government officials were notified of its illegal activity, but none paid heed.</p>

<p>It has been claimed that the owner, Nasser, used his political clout to suppress any complaint and made sure that his business ran uninterrupted.</p>

<p>Moreover, it has been reported that the boat lacked adequate safety measures, like lifejackets, which resulted in a high number of casualties.</p>

<p>The boat was not given a safety certificate which is mandatory for tourist boats, and it entered the waters late in the evening on Sunday despite a ban on boat rides post-sunset.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What has the government done?</strong></h2>

<p>Despite several fatal boat accidents in Kerala over the last 100 years and three Commission of Inquiry reports recommending preventive measures, lack of government intervention resulted in the boating tragedy, reports PTI news agency.</p>

<p>A district disaster management authority in a meeting in February this year reportedly warned of illegal boat operations.</p>

<p>Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday visited the Taluk Hospital, Tirurangadi in Malappuram district where survivors of the boat tragedy near the Tanur coast were admitted.</p>

<p>The Kerala government also ordered a judicial probe into the incident. The chief minister announced Rs one&nbsp;million compensation to the kin of victims and said the government will bear the treatment expense of the injured people.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Kerala boat accident that killed 22 and injured many has opened a can of worms about regulatory malpractice, oversight, and negligence that culminated into one of the state’s deadliest accidents.

The Kerala boat accident that killed 22 and injured many has opened a can of worms about regulatory malpractice, oversight, and negligence that culminated into one of the state’s deadliest accidents. On Sunday night, the operator of the tour boat, Atlantic, not only kept its services open well beyond the stipulated hours but also let greed take over as the vessel was overcrowded with tourists, including women and children. Police officers said that the vessel, which was initially a fishing boat, carried at least 30-40 passengers onboard. Eyewitnesses told local news outlet Manorama that the boat operators continued to invite more people to join saying that it was the ‘last trip of the day’, despite the boat being overloaded. PK Kunhalikutty, an MLA of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), told PTI that the boat violated the rule of vessels not being allowed to operate after 6 pm. The incident took place around 7 pm (local time) near an estuary in Thooval Theeram Beach in the Tanur area. On Monday, police caught the owner of the boat from the Kozhikode beach area after a 24-hour manhunt. A senior police officer of Malappuram district confirmed to PTI news agency that the boat owner, Nasar, has been caught. "He has been caught from the Calicut (Kozhikode) beach area. He has not been arrested formally. He will be brought here (Malappuram)," the officer, who has not been named, was quoted as saying. Kerala boat tragedy: 22 dead after houseboat capsizes How did the tragedy happen? Police officers said that the boat was carrying 40 passengers, well beyond its capacity, which made it tilt to one side, and eventually, it capsized. The accident happened in the backwaters of Thooval Theeram, which is situated on the banks of the estuary of the Poorapuzha River joining the Arabian Sea. The beach was crowded with visitors due to the holiday. The accident happened while passengers were returning from the trip. The first rescue boat took almost 15 minutes to reach the spot due to a lack of light. Was it really a ferry boat? No. According to officials, the double-decker boat was initially a fishing boat. It is alleged that the owner modified it into such a boat for tourism and illegally bought a licence to run it as a passenger boat. Also read | Boat capsizes in Kerala, killing 22; Indian Navy deploys two helos and 15 divers According to local reports, several complaints were made against the Atlantic boat owner and even senior government officials were notified of its illegal activity, but none paid heed. It has been claimed that the owner, Nasser, used his political clout to suppress any complaint and made sure that his business ran uninterrupted. Moreover, it has been reported that the boat lacked adequate safety measures, like lifejackets, which resulted in a high number of casualties. The boat was not given a safety certificate which is mandatory for tourist boats, and it entered the waters late in the evening on Sunday despite a ban on boat rides post-sunset. What has the government done? Despite several fatal boat accidents in Kerala over the last 100 years and three Commission of Inquiry reports recommending preventive measures, lack of government intervention resulted in the boating tragedy, reports PTI news agency. A district disaster management authority in a meeting in February this year reportedly warned of illegal boat operations. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday visited the Taluk Hospital, Tirurangadi in Malappuram district where survivors of the boat tragedy near the Tanur coast were admitted. The Kerala government also ordered a judicial probe into the incident. The chief minister announced Rs one million compensation to the kin of victims and said the government will bear the treatment expense of the injured people. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Kerala boat tragedy: Oversight, corruption resulted in one of state's deadliest accidents

<p>The owner of the boat that capsized killing 22 in southern Indian state of Kerala has been caught by the police, reported Press Trust of India. Those dead in the tragedy include 15 children. As per reports, the owner of the boat was arrested from Kozhikode beach area.</p>

<p>PTI reported that a senior police officer of Malappuram district confirmed that the boat owner, Nasar, has been caught.</p>

<p>"He has been caught from the Calicut (Kozhikode) beach area. He has not been arrested formally. He will be brought here (Malappuram)," the officer said as quoted by PTI.</p>

<p>According to Tanur police, in whose jurisdiction the tragic incident occurred, the owner of the boat had been absconding. A case was registered against on Sunday. The owner of the boat reportedly did not have a license to operate it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The double-decker boat was ferrying the passengers when it turned turtle and sank. Twenty two&nbsp;dead from the tragedy include 15 children.</p>

<p>The incident took place around 7 pm local time (+530 GMT) near an estuary in Thoovaltheeram beach in the Tanur area. Survivours were admitted to Taluk Hospital, Thirurangadi in Malappuram district. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan visited the hospital. It has been reported that around 35-40 passengers were in the boat when it sank.</p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 200,000 (US $2,400 approx.) to the family members of each victim.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"Pained by the loss of lives due to the boat mishap in Malappuram, Kerala. Condolences to the bereaved families. An ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh from PMNRF (Prime Minister's National Relief Fund) would be provided to the next of kin of each deceased," tweeted Prime Minister's Office.</p>

<p>The state of Kerala &nbsp;declared official mourning on Monday for the victims. Official functions were cancelled.</p>

<p>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p>

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The owner of the boat that capsized killing 22 in southern Indian state of Kerala has been caught by the police, reported Press Trust of India. Those dead in the tragedy include 15 children.

The owner of the boat that capsized killing 22 in southern Indian state of Kerala has been caught by the police, reported Press Trust of India. Those dead in the tragedy include 15 children. As per reports, the owner of the boat was arrested from Kozhikode beach area. PTI reported that a senior police officer of Malappuram district confirmed that the boat owner, Nasar, has been caught. "He has been caught from the Calicut (Kozhikode) beach area. He has not been arrested formally. He will be brought here (Malappuram)," the officer said as quoted by PTI. According to Tanur police, in whose jurisdiction the tragic incident occurred, the owner of the boat had been absconding. A case was registered against on Sunday. The owner of the boat reportedly did not have a license to operate it. The double-decker boat was ferrying the passengers when it turned turtle and sank. Twenty two dead from the tragedy include 15 children. The incident took place around 7 pm local time (+530 GMT) near an estuary in Thoovaltheeram beach in the Tanur area. Survivours were admitted to Taluk Hospital, Thirurangadi in Malappuram district. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan visited the hospital. It has been reported that around 35-40 passengers were in the boat when it sank. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 200,000 (US $2,400 approx.) to the family members of each victim. "Pained by the loss of lives due to the boat mishap in Malappuram, Kerala. Condolences to the bereaved families. An ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh from PMNRF (Prime Minister's National Relief Fund) would be provided to the next of kin of each deceased," tweeted Prime Minister's Office. The state of Kerala declared official mourning on Monday for the victims. Official functions were cancelled. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Kerala boat tragedy: Police nab owner of the sunken vessel

India's southern state of Kerala witnessed a boat capsize. At least 22 people died, including 15 children. What has the government done about the incident? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Boat capsizes after overloading in Kerala

<p>At least 22&nbsp;people, including children&nbsp;and women, drowned after a double-decker boat ferrying passengers turned turtle and sank in the southern Kerala state on Sunday.</p>

<p>The incident took place around 7:00pm (local time) near an estuary close to Thoovaltheeram beach in the Tanur area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan arrived&nbsp;at Taluk Hospital, Tirurangadi in Malappuram district where survivors were admitted. The district administration noted that 22 people lost their lives. The death toll might rise.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Around 35-40 passengers were said to be inside the boat when it capsized while making the last trip of the day.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Kerala: So far 18 people are dead after a tourist boat capsized near Tanur in Malappuram district of Kerala. Rescue operations are underway. <a href="https://t.co/hEJVDA4PHw">pic.twitter.com/hEJVDA4PHw</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1655288199894429696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>PK Kunhalikutty, an MLA of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), said the toll is expected to go up as rescue operations continue.</p>

<p>"It is a very tragic and unfortunate incident," the former minister said.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 200,000 (US $2,400 approx.) to the family members of each victim.</p>

<p>"Pained by the loss of lives due to the boat mishap in Malappuram, Kerala. Condolences to the bereaved families. An ex-gratia of&nbsp;₹2 lakh from PMNRF (Prime Minister's National Relief Fund) would be provided to the next of kin of each deceased," PM Modi was quoted as saying in a tweet by the Prime Minister's Office.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Pained by the loss of lives due to the boat mishap in Malappuram, Kerala. Condolences to the bereaved families. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be provided to the next of kin of each deceased: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a></p>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1655262858639294465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Local reports stated that the boat operator did not have permission to enter the water in the night hours, but still continued the service due to the heavy rush of visitors on Sunday evening.</p>

<p>The state government declared official mourning on Monday for the victims and cancelled all official functions for the day.</p>

<p>Vijayan, while condoling the deaths, had earlier directed the district collector to carry out a coordinated emergency rescue operation.</p>

<p>Fire and police units, officials from the Revenue and Health departments and local residents from Tanur and Tirur were involved in the rescue operation, the statement said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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At least 22 people, including children and women, drowned after a double-decker boat ferrying passengers turned turtle and sank in the southern Kerala state on Sunday.

At least 22 people, including children and women, drowned after a double-decker boat ferrying passengers turned turtle and sank in the southern Kerala state on Sunday. The incident took place around 7:00pm (local time) near an estuary close to Thoovaltheeram beach in the Tanur area. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan arrived at Taluk Hospital, Tirurangadi in Malappuram district where survivors were admitted. The district administration noted that 22 people lost their lives. The death toll might rise. Around 35-40 passengers were said to be inside the boat when it capsized while making the last trip of the day. #WATCH | Kerala: So far 18 people are dead after a tourist boat capsized near Tanur in Malappuram district of Kerala. Rescue operations are underway. pic.twitter.com/hEJVDA4PHw — ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2023 × PK Kunhalikutty, an MLA of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), said the toll is expected to go up as rescue operations continue. "It is a very tragic and unfortunate incident," the former minister said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 200,000 (US $2,400 approx.) to the family members of each victim. "Pained by the loss of lives due to the boat mishap in Malappuram, Kerala. Condolences to the bereaved families. An ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh from PMNRF (Prime Minister's National Relief Fund) would be provided to the next of kin of each deceased," PM Modi was quoted as saying in a tweet by the Prime Minister's Office. Pained by the loss of lives due to the boat mishap in Malappuram, Kerala. Condolences to the bereaved families. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be provided to the next of kin of each deceased: PM @narendramodi — PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 7, 2023 × Local reports stated that the boat operator did not have permission to enter the water in the night hours, but still continued the service due to the heavy rush of visitors on Sunday evening. The state government declared official mourning on Monday for the victims and cancelled all official functions for the day. Vijayan, while condoling the deaths, had earlier directed the district collector to carry out a coordinated emergency rescue operation. Fire and police units, officials from the Revenue and Health departments and local residents from Tanur and Tirur were involved in the rescue operation, the statement said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

At least 22 drown after tourist boat sinks in India’s Kerala state

At least three women and four children were reportedly among the dead or killed when a houseboat capsized in the Indian state of Kerala on Sunday evening, killing at least 21 people. The incident happened in Kerala's Malapuram District near the tunnel coast.

India: Vessel carrying 30 passengers overturns in Kerala

The death toll from a tourist boat disaster near Thoovaltheeram beach in Kerala has increased to 22, according to officials on Monday. According to local officials, eight individuals were rescued when the boat capsized on Sunday evening and are being treated at separate hospitals.

Kerala boat tragedy: 22 dead after houseboat capsizes near Thoovaltheeram beach | India News | WION

From Dior coming to India to pay tribute to the country's artisans to Indian designers showcasing their work at the prestigious Paris haut couture week, India has been making its presence felt in the fashion world like never before. This year, a number of Indian celebrities also made heads turn at the met gala, but what many people don't know is that iconic red carpet that stars like priyanka chopra jonas and alia bhatt walked on, was also made in India.

Met Gala`s India connect: Kerala artisans weave magic into Met Gala`s red carpet

kerala

Kerala, News on Kerala, stories on Kerala, articles on Kerala, Kerala stories at Wion, Kerala news, Kerala latest news