<p>Despite their 0-1 loss to ATK Mohun Bagan in the second leg of the Hero Indian Super League semifinal, Hyderabad FC made history by qualifying for the final with a 3-2 victory on aggregate over two legs at the Athletic Stadium, here on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Roy Krishna scored in the 79th minute to give ATKMB a glimmer of hope and make for an end-to-end last ten minutes but in the end, it was not enough for the finalists of last season as the men in yellow booked a final date with Kerala Blasters at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda on Sunday.</p>

<p>In the first leg, Bartholomew Ogbeche, Yasir Mohammad and Javier Siverio netted for Hyderabad.<br />
<br />
Hyderabad head coach Manolo Marquez played the same team that won the first leg 3-1 while Juan Ferrando made a few changes to the ATKMB side from the last game with the ever-dependable centre-back Tiri being a forced one as he picked up an injury in the last game. Kiyan Nassiri -- who scored a memorable hat-trick in the Kolkata derby earlier this season -- got a start.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-villarreal-knock-juventus-out-with-3-0-victory-to-enter-quarter-finals-463110">Champions League: Villarreal knock Juventus out with 3-0 victory to enter quarter-finals</a><br />
<br />
ATKMB looked the likelier of the two teams to nod ahead in the opening exchanges, the Mariners needing two goals at least to make a comeback.<br />
<br />
Liston Colaco was proving to be a handful for the Hyderabad defenders as he time and again put Nim Dorjee Tamang to the sword with his jinking runs.</p>

<p>Colaco's industry could have paid dividends soon but the local boy curled his effort just wide of target after dribbling past a few Hyderabad shirts inside the box. Colaco then tried to set up Krishna with a similar run and delivery inside the box but Yasir Mohammad did well to keep the Fijian striker at bay.<br />
<br />
There was no stopping Colaco as he shimmied past a few defenders post the drinks break and took a swipe at goal only for Laxmikant Kattimani to pull off a stunning save with his outstretched leg.</p>

<p>At the other end, Aniket Jadhav spurned a gilt-edged chance to make it 4-1 on aggregate for Hyderabad from a Yasir ball, nodding a free header from five yards, wide.</p>

<p>The best chance of the half, though, fell to Hugo Boumous who could not stab home from handshaking distance after a pin-point Prabir Das cross set him up perfectly, the French-Moroccan sliding in to get a touch on the ball as well but only dragging his effort wide.</p>

<p>Just before halftime, Joni Kauko shot wide, to sum up ATKMB's half of missed opportunities.<br />
<br />
Hyderabad suffered a blow early on in the second half when Sauvik Chakrabarti had to come off due to an injury, Sahil Tavora replacing the midfielder.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-to-donate-one-million-euros-to-help-displaced-in-ukraine-amid-russias-invasion-462889">Real Madrid to donate one million euros to help displaced in Ukraine amid Russia's invasion</a></p>

<p>ATKMB kept piling on one attack after another as Hyderabad sat back and defended deep. Ferrando took off Sandesh Jhingan and threw in Manvir Singh, going all out in search of goals.</p>

<p>There were huge appeals for a penalty when Joni Kauko was brought down by Akash Mishra but replays showed he was tackled just outside the box.<br />
<br />
The goal came from a likely source for ATKMB as Colaco showed his magic again down the left flank, bursting down that side to cross from the byline at the far post where Krishna was on hand to slam home from close.<br />
<br />
ATKMB threw in the towel in the last ten minutes but it proved to be too tall an order for them in the end as they succumbed to a semifinal exit.</p>


Despite their 0-1 loss to ATK Mohun Bagan in the second leg of the Hero Indian Super League semifinal, Hyderabad FC made history by qualifying for the final with a 3-2 victory on aggregate over two legs at the Athletic Stadium, here on Wednesday.

Despite their 0-1 loss to ATK Mohun Bagan in the second leg of the Hero Indian Super League semifinal, Hyderabad FC made history by qualifying for the final with a 3-2 victory on aggregate over two legs at the Athletic Stadium, here on Wednesday. Roy Krishna scored in the 79th minute to give ATKMB a glimmer of hope and make for an end-to-end last ten minutes but in the end, it was not enough for the finalists of last season as the men in yellow booked a final date with Kerala Blasters at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda on Sunday. In the first leg, Bartholomew Ogbeche, Yasir Mohammad and Javier Siverio netted for Hyderabad. Hyderabad head coach Manolo Marquez played the same team that won the first leg 3-1 while Juan Ferrando made a few changes to the ATKMB side from the last game with the ever-dependable centre-back Tiri being a forced one as he picked up an injury in the last game. Kiyan Nassiri -- who scored a memorable hat-trick in the Kolkata derby earlier this season -- got a start. ALSO READ: Champions League: Villarreal knock Juventus out with 3-0 victory to enter quarter-finals ATKMB looked the likelier of the two teams to nod ahead in the opening exchanges, the Mariners needing two goals at least to make a comeback. Liston Colaco was proving to be a handful for the Hyderabad defenders as he time and again put Nim Dorjee Tamang to the sword with his jinking runs. Colaco's industry could have paid dividends soon but the local boy curled his effort just wide of target after dribbling past a few Hyderabad shirts inside the box. Colaco then tried to set up Krishna with a similar run and delivery inside the box but Yasir Mohammad did well to keep the Fijian striker at bay. There was no stopping Colaco as he shimmied past a few defenders post the drinks break and took a swipe at goal only for Laxmikant Kattimani to pull off a stunning save with his outstretched leg. At the other end, Aniket Jadhav spurned a gilt-edged chance to make it 4-1 on aggregate for Hyderabad from a Yasir ball, nodding a free header from five yards, wide. The best chance of the half, though, fell to Hugo Boumous who could not stab home from handshaking distance after a pin-point Prabir Das cross set him up perfectly, the French-Moroccan sliding in to get a touch on the ball as well but only dragging his effort wide. Just before halftime, Joni Kauko shot wide, to sum up ATKMB's half of missed opportunities. Hyderabad suffered a blow early on in the second half when Sauvik Chakrabarti had to come off due to an injury, Sahil Tavora replacing the midfielder. ALSO READ: Real Madrid to donate one million euros to help displaced in Ukraine amid Russia's invasion ATKMB kept piling on one attack after another as Hyderabad sat back and defended deep. Ferrando took off Sandesh Jhingan and threw in Manvir Singh, going all out in search of goals. There were huge appeals for a penalty when Joni Kauko was brought down by Akash Mishra but replays showed he was tackled just outside the box. The goal came from a likely source for ATKMB as Colaco showed his magic again down the left flank, bursting down that side to cross from the byline at the far post where Krishna was on hand to slam home from close. ATKMB threw in the towel in the last ten minutes but it proved to be too tall an order for them in the end as they succumbed to a semifinal exit.

ISL: Hyderabad book final date against Kerala with 3-2 aggregate win over ATK Mohun Bagan

<p>Babu, the 24-year-old trekker was rescued by the Indian Army&nbsp;after being stuck at a steep hillside crevice, saying he felt reborn on Wednesday morning.</p>

<p>In a video, an elated Babu is seen encircled by the daring team of the Indian Army that successfully completed the rescue operation.</p>

<p>Thanking the Indian Army, Babu is seen planting kisses on the cheeks of the soldiers Deepak and Bala, who carried him to safety, at the hilltop. The enthusiastic rescue team is heard raising slogans hailing the Indian Army and Mother India.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">24yr old trekker, Babu feels reborn, all thanks to <a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@adgpi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IaSouthern?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IaSouthern</a><br />
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Loud Chants of Indian Army ki Jai (all hail army) and Bharat mata ki jai at hilltop<br />
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Babu kisses and thanks soldiers Deepak and Bala who secured him, carried him to safety <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indian</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bharatmatakijai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bharatmatakijai</a> <a href="https://t.co/z0IpZrYhZX">pic.twitter.com/z0IpZrYhZX</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1491280631661481985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Bringing to an end to a harrowing 43-hour-long wait, Indian Army teams from Wellington and Bengaluru managed to reach the trekker at the crevice&nbsp;by the steep hillside&nbsp;on Wednesday at around 9:30am.</p>

<p>After securing him with ropes and harness, the Army teams carried him to safety and provided first aid. Babu was visibly exhausted, after having starved for 43 hours, braving the day and night weather.</p>

<p aria-hidden="true">Babu, had been stuck at a narrow crevice at the Koormbachi hillock in Palakkad, Kerala, after he slipped and fell during a group trekking expedition he undertook on Monday.</p>

<p aria-hidden="true">Unable to rescue him, his fellow trekkers returned to the nearby town and alerted authorities. Teams from Kerala Police, Fire brigade, NDRF and an Indian Coast Guard helicopter had taken efforts to attempt a rescue on Tuesday. However, they couldn't accomplish the task&nbsp;as planned.</p>

<p aria-hidden="true">Having arrived in the late hours of Tuesday, the Army teams immediately commenced work and pulled off the rescue within 12 hours of their having reached the site.</p>

<p aria-hidden="true">&nbsp;</p>


Babu, the 24-year-old trekker was rescued by the Indian Army after being stuck at a steep hillside crevice, saying he felt reborn on Wednesday morning. In a video, an elated Babu is seen encircled by the daring team of the Indian Army that successfully completed the rescue operation.

Babu, the 24-year-old trekker was rescued by the Indian Army after being stuck at a steep hillside crevice, saying he felt reborn on Wednesday morning. In a video, an elated Babu is seen encircled by the daring team of the Indian Army that successfully completed the rescue operation. Thanking the Indian Army, Babu is seen planting kisses on the cheeks of the soldiers Deepak and Bala, who carried him to safety, at the hilltop. The enthusiastic rescue team is heard raising slogans hailing the Indian Army and Mother India. 24yr old trekker, Babu feels reborn, all thanks to @adgpi @IaSouthern Loud Chants of Indian Army ki Jai (all hail army) and Bharat mata ki jai at hilltop Babu kisses and thanks soldiers Deepak and Bala who secured him, carried him to safety #India #Indian #bharatmatakijai pic.twitter.com/z0IpZrYhZX — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) February 9, 2022 × Bringing to an end to a harrowing 43-hour-long wait, Indian Army teams from Wellington and Bengaluru managed to reach the trekker at the crevice by the steep hillside on Wednesday at around 9:30am. After securing him with ropes and harness, the Army teams carried him to safety and provided first aid. Babu was visibly exhausted, after having starved for 43 hours, braving the day and night weather. Babu, had been stuck at a narrow crevice at the Koormbachi hillock in Palakkad, Kerala, after he slipped and fell during a group trekking expedition he undertook on Monday. Unable to rescue him, his fellow trekkers returned to the nearby town and alerted authorities. Teams from Kerala Police, Fire brigade, NDRF and an Indian Coast Guard helicopter had taken efforts to attempt a rescue on Tuesday. However, they couldn't accomplish the task as planned. Having arrived in the late hours of Tuesday, the Army teams immediately commenced work and pulled off the rescue within 12 hours of their having reached the site.

Watch: Miracle hill rescue: Indian Trekker stuck in a hole for 43 hours saved by Army

<p>In a bid to improve the vaccination rate, the chief minister (CM) of India’s south Kerala state announced that those who are not following COVID-19 prevention measures, like vaccination, will not be provided free treatment.</p>

<p>CM Pinarayi Vijayan also said that teachers and staff of educational institutions who have not taken both doses of the vaccine due to any illness or allergies, must produce a government doctor's certificate or they should get vaccinated before taking classes.</p>

<p>If they do not get vaccinated, they will have to get a negative RT-PCR test every week at their own cost, he said and added that these directions were being issued to ensure safety of the students going back to school and colleges.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">No more free treatment for those who do not cooperate with Covid prevention measures. Non vaccinated teachers and employees who work from offices or interact with public, will have to submit weekly results of RTPCR tests, paid for by themselves, to ensure safety of all.</p>
— Pinarayi Vijayan (@vijayanpinarayi) <a href="https://twitter.com/vijayanpinarayi/status/1465692111219531780?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>These directions would also apply to employees working in offices and public places, he said in the meeting according to the release.</p>

<p>The CM, in a Covid review meeting, said the government will not pay for the treatment of those who become COVID positive without receiving the vaccine, according to a release issued by the state government. Those who are unable to get vaccinated due to diseases, allergies, etc. should produce a government doctor's certificate, he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicron-in-india-dont-need-fear-says-health-ministry-as-first-2-cases-found-one-patient-fully-vaccinated-433526">Omicron in India: Don't need fear, says health ministry as first 2 cases found; one patient fully vaccinated</a></p>

<p>He further said that the health department has been directed to organise a special vaccination drive from December 1 to 15 in the state and District Collectors have been asked to make preparations for the same.</p>

<p>In view of the new variant of coronavirus, he has directed strengthening of the vigilance, including strict checking of travel history of those arriving from abroad, in the state and ensuring adherence to the COVID protocols without any lapse, the release said.</p>

<p>Kerala on Wednesday recorded 5,405 fresh COVID-19 cases and 403 deaths, raising the caseload to 51,35,390 and the toll to 40,535 respectively.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a bid to improve the vaccination rate, the chief minister (CM) of India’s south Kerala state announced that those who are not following COVID-19 prevention measures, like vaccination, will not be provided free treatment.

In a bid to improve the vaccination rate, the chief minister (CM) of India’s south Kerala state announced that those who are not following COVID-19 prevention measures, like vaccination, will not be provided free treatment. CM Pinarayi Vijayan also said that teachers and staff of educational institutions who have not taken both doses of the vaccine due to any illness or allergies, must produce a government doctor's certificate or they should get vaccinated before taking classes. If they do not get vaccinated, they will have to get a negative RT-PCR test every week at their own cost, he said and added that these directions were being issued to ensure safety of the students going back to school and colleges. No more free treatment for those who do not cooperate with Covid prevention measures. Non vaccinated teachers and employees who work from offices or interact with public, will have to submit weekly results of RTPCR tests, paid for by themselves, to ensure safety of all. — Pinarayi Vijayan (@vijayanpinarayi) November 30, 2021 × These directions would also apply to employees working in offices and public places, he said in the meeting according to the release. The CM, in a Covid review meeting, said the government will not pay for the treatment of those who become COVID positive without receiving the vaccine, according to a release issued by the state government. Those who are unable to get vaccinated due to diseases, allergies, etc. should produce a government doctor's certificate, he said. Also read | Omicron in India: Don't need fear, says health ministry as first 2 cases found; one patient fully vaccinated He further said that the health department has been directed to organise a special vaccination drive from December 1 to 15 in the state and District Collectors have been asked to make preparations for the same. In view of the new variant of coronavirus, he has directed strengthening of the vigilance, including strict checking of travel history of those arriving from abroad, in the state and ensuring adherence to the COVID protocols without any lapse, the release said. Kerala on Wednesday recorded 5,405 fresh COVID-19 cases and 403 deaths, raising the caseload to 51,35,390 and the toll to 40,535 respectively. (With inputs from agencies)

No free Covid treatment if not vaccinated in this southern Indian state

India is reporting the lowest covid-19 cases in months, the task at hand is to keep the vaccination drive on track. Authorities in the Indian state of Kerala have announced a number of strict measures, listen in.

India: Kerala government makes vaccines mandatory for teachers

<p>Karnataka government took stringent precautionary measures in border districts of the state to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, informed the Chief Minister Office on Sunday.</p>

<p>Speaking to media persons today, Bommai said, "An increase in COVID-19 cases had been noticed among the paramedical staff and students who arrived from Kerala. So, stringent precautions were being taken in Dakshina Kannada, Madikeri, Chamarajanagar and Mysuru districts bordering Kerala."</p>

<p>"Those arriving from Kerala would be allowed only with RTPCR negative report. It is also mandatory for them to have a double dose of vaccination before entering Karnataka," the Chief Minister said.</p>

<p>Referring to the fear of the new COVID-19 variant `Omicron`, Bommai said, "the new variant has been reported in South Africa, Hongkong and Botswana. WHO has also issued an alert about the new strain of the virus."</p>

<p>He further said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also issued guidelines to prevent and control the new variant, however, no cases of the new strain have been reported in Karnataka.</p>

<p>Speaking about the spike in Covid cases reported in student hostels in Dharwad, Mysuru and Bengaluru districts, Bommai said that these hostels and colleges had been declared as containment zones and students along with doctors and nurses were being subjected to the Covid test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have requested the Union Government to ban the arrival of passengers from the three countries which have reported the new strain," Bommai added.</p>

<p>Replying to a question about the proposal on booster dose of COVID-19 vaccination for frontline workers, the Chief Minister said, "the state government had already written to the Centre seeking permission for administering the booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine."</p>

<p>"The state government had made double dose of vaccination compulsory for those working in government offices, malls, cinema halls and other public places. Testing has been intensified in border districts, students who have arrived in the last 16 days from Kerala would be tested again seven days after they get a negative report," Bommai added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the state Chief Minister said that a suitable decision would be taken on guidelines for New Year celebrations in the next few days depending on the situation.</p>

<p>"Instructions had been issued to follow covid guidelines in the campaign meetings of Legislative Council election. The state has 80 lakh doses of the vaccine and about 91 per cent of the eligible population has been covered for the first dose, a target of 70 per cent for the second dose by December end has been set," he added.</p>


Karnataka government took stringent precautionary measures in border districts of the state to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, informed the Chief Minister Office on Sunday.

Karnataka government took stringent precautionary measures in border districts of the state to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, informed the Chief Minister Office on Sunday. Speaking to media persons today, Bommai said, "An increase in COVID-19 cases had been noticed among the paramedical staff and students who arrived from Kerala. So, stringent precautions were being taken in Dakshina Kannada, Madikeri, Chamarajanagar and Mysuru districts bordering Kerala." "Those arriving from Kerala would be allowed only with RTPCR negative report. It is also mandatory for them to have a double dose of vaccination before entering Karnataka," the Chief Minister said. Referring to the fear of the new COVID-19 variant `Omicron`, Bommai said, "the new variant has been reported in South Africa, Hongkong and Botswana. WHO has also issued an alert about the new strain of the virus." He further said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also issued guidelines to prevent and control the new variant, however, no cases of the new strain have been reported in Karnataka. Speaking about the spike in Covid cases reported in student hostels in Dharwad, Mysuru and Bengaluru districts, Bommai said that these hostels and colleges had been declared as containment zones and students along with doctors and nurses were being subjected to the Covid test. "We have requested the Union Government to ban the arrival of passengers from the three countries which have reported the new strain," Bommai added. Replying to a question about the proposal on booster dose of COVID-19 vaccination for frontline workers, the Chief Minister said, "the state government had already written to the Centre seeking permission for administering the booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine." "The state government had made double dose of vaccination compulsory for those working in government offices, malls, cinema halls and other public places. Testing has been intensified in border districts, students who have arrived in the last 16 days from Kerala would be tested again seven days after they get a negative report," Bommai added. Meanwhile, the state Chief Minister said that a suitable decision would be taken on guidelines for New Year celebrations in the next few days depending on the situation. "Instructions had been issued to follow covid guidelines in the campaign meetings of Legislative Council election. The state has 80 lakh doses of the vaccine and about 91 per cent of the eligible population has been covered for the first dose, a target of 70 per cent for the second dose by December end has been set," he added.

Karnataka issues fresh curbs in districts bordering Kerala amid rise in Covid cases

The Indian Navy commissioned 231 cadets at the passing out parade which was held at the Indian naval academy in India's southern state of Kerala. WION's correspondent Sidharth MP brings you this report from Asia's largest naval academy.

Maldives Minister reviews passing out parade at Indian Naval Academy, Kerala

<p>Education knows no age bar. A person can study at any point of time in life. This phrase is apt to describe the tale of a beaming centenarian, who has given the citizens of India yet another reason to cheer. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-pays-tribute-to-jawaharlal-nehru-on-his-132nd-birth-anniversary-429312" hreflang="en">PM Modi pays tribute to Jawaharlal Nehru on his 132nd birth anniversary</a></strong></p>

<p>Not just this, it is also a proud moment for the Indian state of Kerala as it has always had an inclination towards education as it has been the state with the highest literacy state for a long time. &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">104-year-old Kuttiyamma from Kottayam has scored 89/100 in the Kerala State Literacy Mission’s test. Age is no barrier to enter the world of knowledge. With utmost respect and love, I wish Kuttiyamma and all other new learners the best. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Literacy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Literacy</a> <a href="https://t.co/pB5Fj9LYd9">pic.twitter.com/pB5Fj9LYd9</a></p>
— V. Sivankutty (@VSivankuttyCPIM) <a href="https://twitter.com/VSivankuttyCPIM/status/1459008890708758531?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The government of Kerala has also started to brag about its famed literacy endeavours as the state’s Education Minister Vasudevan Sivankutty on Friday posted a picture of 104-year-old Kuttiyamma on social media along with a heartfelt message to congratulate her for scoring well in an exam.</p>

<p>The exam was conducted by the government's continuing education initiative. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/respiratory-cases-on-rise-in-delhi-amid-rising-pollution-levels-says-doctors-429311" hreflang="en">Respiratory cases on rise in Delhi amid rising pollution levels, says doctors</a></strong></p>

<p>"104-year-old Kuttiyamma from Kottayam has scored 89/100 in the Kerala State Literacy Mission's test. Age is no barrier to enter the world of knowledge. With utmost respect and love, I wish Kuttiyamma and all other new learners the best," Sivankutty tweeted. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Education knows no age bar. A person can study at any point of time in life. This phrase is apt to describe the tale of a beaming centenarian, who has given the citizens of India yet another reason to cheer.

Education knows no age bar. A person can study at any point of time in life. This phrase is apt to describe the tale of a beaming centenarian, who has given the citizens of India yet another reason to cheer. Also Read: PM Modi pays tribute to Jawaharlal Nehru on his 132nd birth anniversary Not just this, it is also a proud moment for the Indian state of Kerala as it has always had an inclination towards education as it has been the state with the highest literacy state for a long time. 104-year-old Kuttiyamma from Kottayam has scored 89/100 in the Kerala State Literacy Mission’s test. Age is no barrier to enter the world of knowledge. With utmost respect and love, I wish Kuttiyamma and all other new learners the best. #Literacy pic.twitter.com/pB5Fj9LYd9 — V. Sivankutty (@VSivankuttyCPIM) November 12, 2021 × The government of Kerala has also started to brag about its famed literacy endeavours as the state’s Education Minister Vasudevan Sivankutty on Friday posted a picture of 104-year-old Kuttiyamma on social media along with a heartfelt message to congratulate her for scoring well in an exam. The exam was conducted by the government's continuing education initiative. Also Read: Respiratory cases on rise in Delhi amid rising pollution levels, says doctors "104-year-old Kuttiyamma from Kottayam has scored 89/100 in the Kerala State Literacy Mission's test. Age is no barrier to enter the world of knowledge. With utmost respect and love, I wish Kuttiyamma and all other new learners the best," Sivankutty tweeted. (With inputs from agencies)

104-year-old woman in India’s Kerala state gets 89 out of 100 marks in exam

Heavy rains have triggered deadly floods and landslides, several people have been killed so far. The Indian army and airforce have been carrying out rescue operations along with state disaster management authorities.

India: Floods batter Uttarakhand, orange alert in Kerala

At least 40 people have lost their lives in the southern Indian state of Kerala where heavy floods triggered by heavy rainfall and landslides are wreaking havoc. Two districts Kottayam and Idukki have been the worst affected.

Kerala: 40 dead in southern Indian state, disaster relief ops underway

At least 27 people have lost their lives in the southern Indian state of Kerala where heavy floods triggered by heavy rainfall and landslides are wreaking havoc. Two districts have been the worst affected, 13 bodies from the landslide areas in Kottayam and nine of those that went missing in Idukki have been recovered.

Kerala: 27 dead after rains spark landslides and heavy floods

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="3">We’ve often heard of flashy destination weddings that take place in the scenic Alappuzha backwaters of Indian state of Kerala, where respective families book entire fleets of houseboats for the special day.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="9">However, amid the sharp spells of rain, landslides and deluge that have devastated the Southern Indian state, a couple let none of this come in their way.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="10">Akash and Aishwarya, a couple in Alappuzha boarded a large vessel to arrive for the their wedding—only to find that this was no boat, but a large circular vessel that is used for cooking large quantities.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="11">Clad in a traditional Kerala Dhoti and Sari, the couple are seen seated in the large vessel that is moving through knee-deep water.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A clever <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mallu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mallu</a> quips in the background - we could've ordered a boat, instead of a car! <a href="https://t.co/JmefqKWKJV">pic.twitter.com/JmefqKWKJV</a></p>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1450031819907211266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Two people clad in dhotis are seen gently pushing the vessel, as they themselves wade through the flooded street.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="13">The wedding photographer is seen leading the way for this special ‘wedding vehicle’, that is headed for the Thalavadi Panayannurkavu temple.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="14">According to a close relative of the couple, the bride and groom were keen on adhering to the auspicious date and time that was originally fixed for their special day.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="15">In one of the the videos of the couple traveling by this ‘improvised vessel’, a person in the background is heard quipping (in Malayalam)- We could’ve booked a boat instead of a car!</p>


We’ve often heard of flashy destination weddings that take place in the scenic Alappuzha backwaters of Indian state of Kerala, where respective families book entire fleets of houseboats for the special day.

We’ve often heard of flashy destination weddings that take place in the scenic Alappuzha backwaters of Indian state of Kerala, where respective families book entire fleets of houseboats for the special day. However, amid the sharp spells of rain, landslides and deluge that have devastated the Southern Indian state, a couple let none of this come in their way. Akash and Aishwarya, a couple in Alappuzha boarded a large vessel to arrive for the their wedding—only to find that this was no boat, but a large circular vessel that is used for cooking large quantities. Clad in a traditional Kerala Dhoti and Sari, the couple are seen seated in the large vessel that is moving through knee-deep water. A clever #mallu quips in the background - we could've ordered a boat, instead of a car! pic.twitter.com/JmefqKWKJV — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) October 18, 2021 × Two people clad in dhotis are seen gently pushing the vessel, as they themselves wade through the flooded street. The wedding photographer is seen leading the way for this special ‘wedding vehicle’, that is headed for the Thalavadi Panayannurkavu temple. According to a close relative of the couple, the bride and groom were keen on adhering to the auspicious date and time that was originally fixed for their special day. In one of the the videos of the couple traveling by this ‘improvised vessel’, a person in the background is heard quipping (in Malayalam)- We could’ve booked a boat instead of a car!

Indian couple wade through floodwater in ‘improvised vessel’ to tie the knot, braving all elements

Over 20 have died and several are reported missing after heavy rains triggered flash floods and landslides in the south Indian state of Kerala. Watch this report to know more.

Over 20 people killed after heavy rains triggered flash floods in Kerala

<p>An elderly woman could be seen running from one person to another screaming through the rain swept roads in this high range hamlet, located at the foothills of Western Ghats mountain ranges, on Sunday morning.</p>

<p>"I have lost everything...Everything in my life...Where should I go?&nbsp;&nbsp;Who will give me a shelter?" the woman, clad in a tattered saree, asked aloud crying and running here and there.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/six-people-dead-a-dozen-reported-missing-as-rains-lash-kerala-421366">Six people dead, a dozen reported missing as rains lash Kerala</a></strong></p>

<p>The unexpected torrential rain, which pounded the village on Saturday, washed away every penny of her life time earnings and made her homeless all of a sudden.</p>

<p>"I begged our Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan sir to give me two cents of land to construct a 'koora' (hut). I have nowhere to go. My daughters' houses are also submerged. Now I am going to the church to see whether I will get a place there," she told the journalists gathered at the place.</p>

<p>It was the story of many hapless families in Koottickal, located in Kottayam district of Kerala which suffered severe destruction and human casualty due to a series of landslips triggered by heavy rains yesterday.</p>

<p>When the extreme rains showed a slight dip this morning, a large number of people in this village could be seen as displaced and became the inmates of rehabilitation campus.</p>

<p>Many elderly villagers said it was for the first time in their decades-old life that they were seeing and experiencing such severe rainfall.</p>

<p>A local shop owner here pointed to his new car, which can be seen as destroyed and partially hanging with its back wheels stuck on a broken wall in his house compound.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-rains-death-toll-reaches-9-421432">Kerala Rains: Death toll reaches 9</a></strong></p>

<p>"It was my new car parked in front of the house. I was not at home when the flood water suddenly gushed inside the house compound Saturday afternoon. My wife and children some how managed to run to the neighbour's house," the middle aged man said.</p>

<p>He turned a bit emotional showing the 'mundu' (dhoti) which he was wearing, saying that it was borrowed from the neighbour.</p>

<p>Only life was saved and everything else was lost, he said adding that not even in the 2018 floods had he faced such a terrible situation.</p>

<p>The situation was not different in Kokkayar, a hilly hamlet in Idukki district as well, which also witnessed a series of landslips and human casualty on Saturday in incessant rains.</p>

<p>A shocked Rajamma, a woman villager, was yet to believe that a four-member family including children, who was seen engaged in some construction activities near her home on the foothills of hill, swept away by flood waters in front of her eyes.</p>

<p>The elderly woman said she advised the family to move away from the place when water was seen coming down from the hill tops in a small scale.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-13-terrorists-killed-in-9-encounters-after-civilian-killings-421340">J&amp;K: 13 terrorists killed in 9 encounters after civilian killings</a></strong></p>

<p>"But, they continued their work. Suddenly a portion of the hill, where they were standing, caved in.&nbsp;Huge boulders started rolling down accompanied by a massive flood of water.&nbsp;I do not remember anything else," the teary-eyed woman said.</p>

<p>George, a middle-aged man engaged in rescue operations, said it was everything fine and calm in the village till 11 PM on Saturday.</p>

<p>"But, the situation worsened after that. Around 10 big bridges and the same number of wooden bridges were washed away and the village became isolated soon," he added.</p>

<p>The Army, NDRF, police and the Fire Force along with the locals began rescue operations on Sunday morning at Koottickal and Kokkayar panchayats where over a dozen people are listed to be missing due to numerous landslides accompanied by heavy downpour since Saturday.</p>

<p>Officials said rescue operators on Sunday morning recovered four more bodies from Koottickal panchayat taking the toll to eight.</p>


An elderly woman could be seen running from one person to another screaming through the rain swept roads in this high range hamlet, located at the foothills of Western Ghats mountain ranges, on Sunday morning.

An elderly woman could be seen running from one person to another screaming through the rain swept roads in this high range hamlet, located at the foothills of Western Ghats mountain ranges, on Sunday morning. "I have lost everything...Everything in my life...Where should I go? Who will give me a shelter?" the woman, clad in a tattered saree, asked aloud crying and running here and there. Also Read | Six people dead, a dozen reported missing as rains lash Kerala The unexpected torrential rain, which pounded the village on Saturday, washed away every penny of her life time earnings and made her homeless all of a sudden. "I begged our Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan sir to give me two cents of land to construct a 'koora' (hut). I have nowhere to go. My daughters' houses are also submerged. Now I am going to the church to see whether I will get a place there," she told the journalists gathered at the place. It was the story of many hapless families in Koottickal, located in Kottayam district of Kerala which suffered severe destruction and human casualty due to a series of landslips triggered by heavy rains yesterday. When the extreme rains showed a slight dip this morning, a large number of people in this village could be seen as displaced and became the inmates of rehabilitation campus. Many elderly villagers said it was for the first time in their decades-old life that they were seeing and experiencing such severe rainfall. A local shop owner here pointed to his new car, which can be seen as destroyed and partially hanging with its back wheels stuck on a broken wall in his house compound. Also Read | Kerala Rains: Death toll reaches 9 "It was my new car parked in front of the house. I was not at home when the flood water suddenly gushed inside the house compound Saturday afternoon. My wife and children some how managed to run to the neighbour's house," the middle aged man said. He turned a bit emotional showing the 'mundu' (dhoti) which he was wearing, saying that it was borrowed from the neighbour. Only life was saved and everything else was lost, he said adding that not even in the 2018 floods had he faced such a terrible situation. The situation was not different in Kokkayar, a hilly hamlet in Idukki district as well, which also witnessed a series of landslips and human casualty on Saturday in incessant rains. A shocked Rajamma, a woman villager, was yet to believe that a four-member family including children, who was seen engaged in some construction activities near her home on the foothills of hill, swept away by flood waters in front of her eyes. The elderly woman said she advised the family to move away from the place when water was seen coming down from the hill tops in a small scale. Also Read | J&K: 13 terrorists killed in 9 encounters after civilian killings "But, they continued their work. Suddenly a portion of the hill, where they were standing, caved in. Huge boulders started rolling down accompanied by a massive flood of water. I do not remember anything else," the teary-eyed woman said. George, a middle-aged man engaged in rescue operations, said it was everything fine and calm in the village till 11 PM on Saturday. "But, the situation worsened after that. Around 10 big bridges and the same number of wooden bridges were washed away and the village became isolated soon," he added. The Army, NDRF, police and the Fire Force along with the locals began rescue operations on Sunday morning at Koottickal and Kokkayar panchayats where over a dozen people are listed to be missing due to numerous landslides accompanied by heavy downpour since Saturday. Officials said rescue operators on Sunday morning recovered four more bodies from Koottickal panchayat taking the toll to eight.

A day after torrential rains, heart-wrenching scenes in Kerala's high ranges

<p>At least six people died and a dozen were missing on Saturday as heavy rains pounded south and central Kerala causing flash floods and landslides in many parts, prompting the state government to seek the assistance of the defence forces for rescue operations.</p>

<p>Several people have been injured and displaced in rain-related incidents in the southern state where dams in many districts are nearing its full capacity and small towns and villages in the hilly areas are totally cut off from the outside world.</p>

<p>Many hilly areas of Kottayam, Idukki and Pathanamthitta are experiencing almost similar to that of the situation the state faced during the time of devastating floods of 2018 and 2019 but authorities said everything was under control and there was no need for any panic.</p>

<p>However, the rescue teams of the state police and fire force could not reach the affected areas due to floods and adverse weather conditions prevailing there.</p>

<p>"The situation is serious", Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said. He, however, said the latest weather forecast indicates that the situation is not going to get worse.</p>

<p>Officials said personnel of the Army, Airforce and the Navy were on the way to Koottickal and Peruvanthanam--the two hilly villages falling under Kottayam and Idukki districts respectively--where an overflowing river swept through houses, displacing and isolating many.</p>

<p>State Cooperation Minister V N Vasavan, who reached the neighbourhood of these landslide-hit villages, said bodies of two women and a child who died, were recovered while search was on to recover the body of a man who also lost his life in the incident.</p>

<p>He said at least 12 people are missing from these villages.</p>

<p>In a separate rain related incident, a man and a woman--both 30-years-old-- died as their car was swept away in the flood waters in Kanjar in Idukki district, police said. Their bodies have been recovered, they said.</p>

<p>According to a defence spokesperson, Mi-17 and Sarang Helicopters are already in standby mode to meet the requirements but they could not start operations as the weather at Kottayam is still bad. Air Force assets are still at Sulur in a standby mode, she said.</p>

<p>"All the bases under Southern Air Command have been put on high alert in view of the prevalent weather situation at Kerala," the spokesperson said in a statement.</p>

<p>"The Indian Army has already deployed army personnel to the flood affected areas. One column consisting of One Officer, 2 JCOs and 30 other ranks of army personnel already moved to Kanjirappally, Kottayam District from Pangode Military Station...," she said.</p>

<p>The Southern Naval Command of the Indian Navy said it is fully ready for assisting local administration in rescue operations.</p>

<p>"Diving&amp;Rescue teams are ready to be deployed at short notice.Helicopters stand-by to be launched once weather is conducive for Air Ops,", it said in a tweet.</p>

<p>Earlier, Minister for Cooperation and Registration V N Vasavan said at least three houses have been washed away in Kottayam district and some people feared missing.</p>

<p>"At least four landslips have been reported from various parts of Kottayam district. We have sought the assistance of the Airforce to rescue people who are stranded in the Koottickal area. We have received information about some people missing and over 60 waiting to be rescued as water entered their homes," the Minister told PTI.</p>

<p>According to the latest update of the India Meteorological Department, 'Red Alert' was sounded for six districts--Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur and Palakkad districts.</p>

<p>Kottayam and Pathanamthitta are the most affected districts as of now due to heavy rains since Friday night.</p>

<p>Visuals have emerged on social media from various parts of Kottayam district, including a KSRTC bus stuck in floodwater and locals rescuing passengers from it.</p>

<p>Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan chaired a high-level meeting in the evening to review the rain situation and decided to strengthen rescue operations in all affected areas.</p>

<p>In a statement, the Chief Minister said all government agencies have been directed to take necessary steps to rescue people from the affected regions and evacuate those living in areas prone to landslides and floods. Vijayan also directed the district collectors to open relief camps to relocate the affected people.</p>

<p>He said the camps should function strictly adhering to COVID-19 protocol.</p>

<p>In the wake of warning that the rains would continue till October 19, the meeting also decided not to allow pilgrims to trek to the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple, situated in a dense forest in Pathanamthitta district, till October 18. The temple was opened at 5pm today for 'Thula masam' poojas.</p>

<p>Higher educational institutions, which were scheduled to open on October 18, will start on October 20, the statement said.</p>

<p>Appealing to the people of the state to keep extra vigil in the next 24 hours, the CM said in a Facebook post that the rains have already hit the south and central districts and it would intensify in the northern districts also by the evening as per the weather forecast.</p>

<p>The water level in some rivers is expected to rise and shutters of certain dams are likely to be opened, he said, adding that those living in its catchment areas should be ready to follow the instructions of authorities.</p>

<p>The CM also said a Red alert has been sounded for the dams under KSEB, including Kakki dam in Pathanamthitta, Sholayar in Thrissur, Kundala and Kallarkutti in Idukki.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, two children had a miraculous escape after a portion of the wall of their house collapsed in incessant rains on Friday night at Chempakamangalam in the capital district where rains have been battering the city and rural areas alike since last night.</p>

<p>The wall collapsed on the bed, where the children were asleep, but they escaped with minor injuries, family sources said.</p>

<p>Government authorities have advised people against visiting tourist places and going near rivers and other water bodies in view of heavy rains in Thiruvananthapuram.</p>

<p>Destruction of roads was reported in many places including in Kollam and Kottayam districts while severe waterlogging made life miserable in Kuttanad region, popularly known as the 'rice bowl' of the state spread in Alappuzha and Kottayam districts.</p>

<p>The Thrissur district administration urged people living in low-lying and other disaster prone areas and on the banks of rivers to move to safer places.</p>

<p>Fishing boats have been prohibited from venturing into the sea, they added.<br />
A red alert has also been issued for Chulliyar dam in Palakkad and Peechi dam in Thrissur, which are under the irrigation department.</p>

<p>Revenue Minister K Rajan said necessary precautions have been taken."We have asked the district collectors to issue warnings to people residing along the river banks," Rajan said.&nbsp;</p>


At least six people died and a dozen were missing on Saturday as heavy rains pounded south and central Kerala causing flash floods and landslides in many parts, prompting the state government to seek the assistance of the defence forces for rescue operations.

At least six people died and a dozen were missing on Saturday as heavy rains pounded south and central Kerala causing flash floods and landslides in many parts, prompting the state government to seek the assistance of the defence forces for rescue operations. Several people have been injured and displaced in rain-related incidents in the southern state where dams in many districts are nearing its full capacity and small towns and villages in the hilly areas are totally cut off from the outside world. Many hilly areas of Kottayam, Idukki and Pathanamthitta are experiencing almost similar to that of the situation the state faced during the time of devastating floods of 2018 and 2019 but authorities said everything was under control and there was no need for any panic. However, the rescue teams of the state police and fire force could not reach the affected areas due to floods and adverse weather conditions prevailing there. "The situation is serious", Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said. He, however, said the latest weather forecast indicates that the situation is not going to get worse. Officials said personnel of the Army, Airforce and the Navy were on the way to Koottickal and Peruvanthanam--the two hilly villages falling under Kottayam and Idukki districts respectively--where an overflowing river swept through houses, displacing and isolating many. State Cooperation Minister V N Vasavan, who reached the neighbourhood of these landslide-hit villages, said bodies of two women and a child who died, were recovered while search was on to recover the body of a man who also lost his life in the incident. He said at least 12 people are missing from these villages. In a separate rain related incident, a man and a woman--both 30-years-old-- died as their car was swept away in the flood waters in Kanjar in Idukki district, police said. Their bodies have been recovered, they said. According to a defence spokesperson, Mi-17 and Sarang Helicopters are already in standby mode to meet the requirements but they could not start operations as the weather at Kottayam is still bad. Air Force assets are still at Sulur in a standby mode, she said. "All the bases under Southern Air Command have been put on high alert in view of the prevalent weather situation at Kerala," the spokesperson said in a statement. "The Indian Army has already deployed army personnel to the flood affected areas. One column consisting of One Officer, 2 JCOs and 30 other ranks of army personnel already moved to Kanjirappally, Kottayam District from Pangode Military Station...," she said. The Southern Naval Command of the Indian Navy said it is fully ready for assisting local administration in rescue operations. "Diving&Rescue teams are ready to be deployed at short notice.Helicopters stand-by to be launched once weather is conducive for Air Ops,", it said in a tweet. Earlier, Minister for Cooperation and Registration V N Vasavan said at least three houses have been washed away in Kottayam district and some people feared missing. "At least four landslips have been reported from various parts of Kottayam district. We have sought the assistance of the Airforce to rescue people who are stranded in the Koottickal area. We have received information about some people missing and over 60 waiting to be rescued as water entered their homes," the Minister told PTI. According to the latest update of the India Meteorological Department, 'Red Alert' was sounded for six districts--Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur and Palakkad districts. Kottayam and Pathanamthitta are the most affected districts as of now due to heavy rains since Friday night. Visuals have emerged on social media from various parts of Kottayam district, including a KSRTC bus stuck in floodwater and locals rescuing passengers from it. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan chaired a high-level meeting in the evening to review the rain situation and decided to strengthen rescue operations in all affected areas. In a statement, the Chief Minister said all government agencies have been directed to take necessary steps to rescue people from the affected regions and evacuate those living in areas prone to landslides and floods. Vijayan also directed the district collectors to open relief camps to relocate the affected people. He said the camps should function strictly adhering to COVID-19 protocol. In the wake of warning that the rains would continue till October 19, the meeting also decided not to allow pilgrims to trek to the Sabarimala Ayyappa temple, situated in a dense forest in Pathanamthitta district, till October 18. The temple was opened at 5pm today for 'Thula masam' poojas. Higher educational institutions, which were scheduled to open on October 18, will start on October 20, the statement said. Appealing to the people of the state to keep extra vigil in the next 24 hours, the CM said in a Facebook post that the rains have already hit the south and central districts and it would intensify in the northern districts also by the evening as per the weather forecast. The water level in some rivers is expected to rise and shutters of certain dams are likely to be opened, he said, adding that those living in its catchment areas should be ready to follow the instructions of authorities. The CM also said a Red alert has been sounded for the dams under KSEB, including Kakki dam in Pathanamthitta, Sholayar in Thrissur, Kundala and Kallarkutti in Idukki. Meanwhile, two children had a miraculous escape after a portion of the wall of their house collapsed in incessant rains on Friday night at Chempakamangalam in the capital district where rains have been battering the city and rural areas alike since last night. The wall collapsed on the bed, where the children were asleep, but they escaped with minor injuries, family sources said. Government authorities have advised people against visiting tourist places and going near rivers and other water bodies in view of heavy rains in Thiruvananthapuram. Destruction of roads was reported in many places including in Kollam and Kottayam districts while severe waterlogging made life miserable in Kuttanad region, popularly known as the 'rice bowl' of the state spread in Alappuzha and Kottayam districts. The Thrissur district administration urged people living in low-lying and other disaster prone areas and on the banks of rivers to move to safer places. Fishing boats have been prohibited from venturing into the sea, they added. A red alert has also been issued for Chulliyar dam in Palakkad and Peechi dam in Thrissur, which are under the irrigation department. Revenue Minister K Rajan said necessary precautions have been taken."We have asked the district collectors to issue warnings to people residing along the river banks," Rajan said.

Six people dead, a dozen reported missing as rains lash Kerala

India's Space journey began on a bicycle in a sleepy village in Kerala. Cattle sheds were turned into a lab, a church into Space Center. 58 years later, India has reached Mars. It is also looking to build its own station in space. Palki Sharma takes you down the history lane.

Gravitas: India's Space journey

<p>A self-proclaimed antique dealer, who claimed to have high-profile connections with politicians, celebrities&nbsp;and bureaucrats, was arrested in India’s southern Kerala state for swindling millions of rupees by selling fake antiques.</p>

<p>Monson Mavunkal, a Kerala-based Youtber and a resident of Cherthala, was arrested from Alappuzha district by the crime branch team on Sunday based on a complaint from six people after he duped them of Rs 10 crore (100 million rupees) in 2017.</p>

<p>According to police, the 52-year-old conman told his clients that he will be getting Rs 24 crore (240 million rupees) after selling antiques to the royal family in the Middle East and that he needs some money to clear legal hurdles to get the amount transferred from his foreign bank account to his Indian account. He would then lure the victims by promising them a partnership in a huge museum project that he claimed was in the pipeline to be made in Kochi.</p>

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<p>According to reports, the conman was planning a new fraud where he had convinced people that he was planning to buy 93 antiques worth Rs 15,000 crores (150 billion rupees)&nbsp; for the antique museum in Qatar.</p>

<p>But his plan got backfired this time and he was arrested. The police have been on the hunt for a few months after six cheated victims filed a complaint with the state’s Chief Minister Pinari Vijayan in July this year.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wandering-turtle-on-runway-causes-delay-at-tokyo-airport-416558">Wandering turtle on runway causes delay at Tokyo airport</a></p>

<p>The complaint against Mavunkal by victims said he showed them the so-called staff of Moses, the sword of Mysore King Tipu Sultan, scriptures inscribed in gold, Bhagwad Gita of Chhatrapati Shivaji, India’s Mughal king Aurangzeb’s ring among others.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mavunkal’s shenanigans weren’t limited to him posing as an antique collector alone. It is being said that Monson also dipped into other professions to find unique ways to con people. He used to pretend as a doctor, philanthropist, actor and promoter of world peace and considered himself to be a ‘jack of all trades’.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A self-proclaimed antique dealer, who claimed to have high-profile connections with politicians, celebrities and bureaucrats, was arrested in India’s southern Kerala state for swindling millions of rupees by selling fake antiques.

A self-proclaimed antique dealer, who claimed to have high-profile connections with politicians, celebrities and bureaucrats, was arrested in India’s southern Kerala state for swindling millions of rupees by selling fake antiques. Monson Mavunkal, a Kerala-based Youtber and a resident of Cherthala, was arrested from Alappuzha district by the crime branch team on Sunday based on a complaint from six people after he duped them of Rs 10 crore (100 million rupees) in 2017. According to police, the 52-year-old conman told his clients that he will be getting Rs 24 crore (240 million rupees) after selling antiques to the royal family in the Middle East and that he needs some money to clear legal hurdles to get the amount transferred from his foreign bank account to his Indian account. He would then lure the victims by promising them a partnership in a huge museum project that he claimed was in the pipeline to be made in Kochi. Also read | Smoking weed? Your phone can detect if you’re high on marijuana According to reports, the conman was planning a new fraud where he had convinced people that he was planning to buy 93 antiques worth Rs 15,000 crores (150 billion rupees) for the antique museum in Qatar. But his plan got backfired this time and he was arrested. The police have been on the hunt for a few months after six cheated victims filed a complaint with the state’s Chief Minister Pinari Vijayan in July this year. Also read | Wandering turtle on runway causes delay at Tokyo airport The complaint against Mavunkal by victims said he showed them the so-called staff of Moses, the sword of Mysore King Tipu Sultan, scriptures inscribed in gold, Bhagwad Gita of Chhatrapati Shivaji, India’s Mughal king Aurangzeb’s ring among others. Mavunkal’s shenanigans weren’t limited to him posing as an antique collector alone. It is being said that Monson also dipped into other professions to find unique ways to con people. He used to pretend as a doctor, philanthropist, actor and promoter of world peace and considered himself to be a ‘jack of all trades’. (With inputs from agencies)

A doctor, antique dealer & Youtuber: India’s conman who sold fake artefacts for millions of rupees held

<p>A luxury cruise MV Empress, which is owned by Cordelia Cruises, reached the shores of Kochi on Wednesday (September 22) after embarking on its journey from Mumbai, marking a promising start to the revival of domestic pandemic-hit tourism in the southern Indian state of Kerala.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The liner became the first luxury cruise to anchor at the state-of-the-art terminal, after the devastating COVID-19 pandemic swept across the world, said a press release.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The department of Kerala tourism said, "The luxury liner M V Empress, with 1200 travellers on board, anchored at Cochin Port, Willingdon Island this morning."&nbsp;</p>

<p>An on-shore tour of Kochi was scheduled for the guests and the tour itinerary included Mattancherry, Fort Kochi and a backwater.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kerala Tourism Department accorded a warm welcome to the guests with martial Velakali dancers and women in traditional off-white dress greeting them.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Cordelia cruises, the first cruise vessel to call at Cochin Port since the onset of pandemic, was given a traditional welcome by <a href="https://twitter.com/KeralaTourism?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KeralaTourism</a> at Sagarika, the new International Cruise Terminal at Cochin Port. <a href="https://twitter.com/shipmin_india?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@shipmin_india</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIB_ShipMin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIB_ShipMin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/tourismgoi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tourismgoi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CordeliaCruises?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CordeliaCruises</a> <a href="https://t.co/m9T9QOXd00">pic.twitter.com/m9T9QOXd00</a></p>
— Cochin Port Trust (@cochin_port) <a href="https://twitter.com/cochin_port/status/1440565875359182860?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The luxury liner M V Empress, with 1200 travellers on board, anchored at Cochin Port, Willingdon Island this morning. An on-shore tour of Kochi was scheduled for the guests. The tour itinerary included Mattancherry, Fort Kochi and a backwater <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cruise?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cruise</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tourism?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tourism</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaTourism?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaTourism</a> <a href="https://t.co/rR2U69mGZq">pic.twitter.com/rR2U69mGZq</a></p>
— Kerala Tourism (@KeralaTourism) <a href="https://twitter.com/KeralaTourism/status/1440655900021190663?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Kerala Tourism Minister PA Mohamed Riyas said the arrival of domestic tourists marks a promising start to the full-scale resumption of Kerala Tourism, overcoming the pandemic-induced crisis.</p>

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<p>&nbsp;"This trend is set to gain pace in the coming days. Kerala is a safe and secure place for the lock-down weary vacationers to come as we have put in place an efficient and meticulous bio-bubble model to create protective layers of inoculated service providers to receive and host tourists," Minister said.</p>

<p>“Cordelia Cruises is grateful for the kind and warm reception extended to us by Kerala Tourism. Together, we hope to bring new dawn on the travel and hospitality industry in India and do hope the world takes notice and travels to our Subcontinent to experience our offerings which are, both, international quality and have a local soul," the company said in a release.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"With promising collaborations such as these, we will bring a new way of touring breathtaking locales along with enjoying fresh flavours of entertainment for our guests. We are tirelessly curating a plethora of experiences for the same," the release further said.</p>


A luxury cruise MV Empress, which is owned by Cordelia Cruises, reached the shores of Kochi on Wednesday (September 22) after embarking on its journey from Mumbai, marking a promising start to the revival of domestic pandemic-hit tourism in the southern Indian state of Kerala.

A luxury cruise MV Empress, which is owned by Cordelia Cruises, reached the shores of Kochi on Wednesday (September 22) after embarking on its journey from Mumbai, marking a promising start to the revival of domestic pandemic-hit tourism in the southern Indian state of Kerala. The liner became the first luxury cruise to anchor at the state-of-the-art terminal, after the devastating COVID-19 pandemic swept across the world, said a press release. The department of Kerala tourism said, "The luxury liner M V Empress, with 1200 travellers on board, anchored at Cochin Port, Willingdon Island this morning." An on-shore tour of Kochi was scheduled for the guests and the tour itinerary included Mattancherry, Fort Kochi and a backwater. The Kerala Tourism Department accorded a warm welcome to the guests with martial Velakali dancers and women in traditional off-white dress greeting them. IN PICS | UNGA: PM Modi arrives in US, busy days ahead Cordelia cruises, the first cruise vessel to call at Cochin Port since the onset of pandemic, was given a traditional welcome by @KeralaTourism at Sagarika, the new International Cruise Terminal at Cochin Port. @shipmin_india @PIB_ShipMin @tourismgoi @CordeliaCruises pic.twitter.com/m9T9QOXd00 — Cochin Port Trust (@cochin_port) September 22, 2021 × The luxury liner M V Empress, with 1200 travellers on board, anchored at Cochin Port, Willingdon Island this morning. An on-shore tour of Kochi was scheduled for the guests. The tour itinerary included Mattancherry, Fort Kochi and a backwater #cruise. #Tourism #KeralaTourism pic.twitter.com/rR2U69mGZq — Kerala Tourism (@KeralaTourism) September 22, 2021 × Kerala Tourism Minister PA Mohamed Riyas said the arrival of domestic tourists marks a promising start to the full-scale resumption of Kerala Tourism, overcoming the pandemic-induced crisis. "This trend is set to gain pace in the coming days. Kerala is a safe and secure place for the lock-down weary vacationers to come as we have put in place an efficient and meticulous bio-bubble model to create protective layers of inoculated service providers to receive and host tourists," Minister said. “Cordelia Cruises is grateful for the kind and warm reception extended to us by Kerala Tourism. Together, we hope to bring new dawn on the travel and hospitality industry in India and do hope the world takes notice and travels to our Subcontinent to experience our offerings which are, both, international quality and have a local soul," the company said in a release. "With promising collaborations such as these, we will bring a new way of touring breathtaking locales along with enjoying fresh flavours of entertainment for our guests. We are tirelessly curating a plethora of experiences for the same," the release further said.

Luxury cruise liner MV Empress arrives in Kochi, gives a boost to pandemic-hit tourism in Kerala

<p>In an embarrassing incident that took place in Kerala’s capital, locals and head-load workers blocked a crucial piece of high-tech, heavy equipment that was being transported for the Indian Space Research Organization. The consignment weighing nearly 180tons was being carried on a special heavy-cargo haulier truck and moving towards ISRO’s Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (VSSC) in Thumba, Thiruvananthapuram when the incident occurred.&nbsp;</p>

<p>VSSC is India’s lead centre for the development of rockets and related technologies. It is named after the Father of the Indian Space Programme.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the high COVID-19 cases in Kerala and the lockdown restrictions, locals and people affiliated with the political trade unions had gathered in large numbers around the truck and created a ruckus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Unmindful of the fact that ISRO’s cargo was being wheeled in with special security, the locals halted the vehicle’s movement for nearly two hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Kerala, the locals and workers unscrupulously demand unreasonable charges for unloading any cargo that is brought into their locality.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even if the owners of the cargo off-load it by themselves, the head-load workers demand exorbitant money.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Malayalam, this practice is known as ‘Nokku Kooli’, it loosely translates to gawking fees or gawking charges.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-over-38000-covid-19-cases-lowest-daily-fatalities-in-167-days-411079"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India reports over 38,000 COVID-19 cases; lowest daily fatalities in 167 days</strong></a></p>

<p>It means that the workers will stand and stare, while the hapless people work and also shell out money to the workers.&nbsp;The workers consider that this unfair practice is their absolute right.</p>

<p>Zee Media has understood that the locals and workers (who possessed no equipment and had nil expertise) wanted to unload the 180-ton cargo, demanded anywhere between Rs. 2000 per ton, which is upwards of Rs. 3.6lakhs.&nbsp;<br />
Some reports also say that the demand was as high as Rs.10lakhs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The demand for money was made even after knowing that such a heavy cargo could only be unloaded using specialised equipment and cranes. The concerned cargo was a component of a new Trisonic wind tunnel equipment that ISRO is building at its facility.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A trisonic wind tunnel facility enables testing of aircraft and rocket prototypes at different speeds of airflow - subsonic, which is less than the speed of sound, transonic, which is close to the speed of sound, and supersonic, which is faster than the speed of sound.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Simply put, wind tunnels are large air tubes used to study how model aircrafts or rockets would actually fly.</p>

<p>It is learnt that this is, unfortunately, a routine issue in Kerala and in this case, the Police had to intervene after ISRO raised the matter seriously with the highest office in Kerala.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was only after the police convinced the gathered people that the crowd dispersed and the cargo was let into ISRO, after a delay of nearly two hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The oversized cargo had arrived in Kollam, Kerala from Maharashtra via ship and it was being transported by a heavy-haulier truck to Thumba, Thiruvananthapuram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There have been reports alleging that ISRO did not honour its promise of providing jobs to the local population.</p>

<p>This is despite having acquired land from there.</p>

<p>It is noteworthy that ISRO acquired land for VSSC, back in the 1960s. Zee Media has understood from ISRO sources that the space agency has been employing people from the locality, spanning three generations. Several contracts worth lakhs of</p>

<p>Rupees are also handed to the locals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Kerala High Court, the practice of ’Nokku-Kooli was damaging the image of Kerala and the Court called for its eradication. While the Kerala Government banned the practice in 2018, it is still rampant and ongoing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Such practices have been adversely impacting the Southern India state’s capability to attract investments and help sustain small local businesses, despite the State Government’s tall claims of being “business-friendly”.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="3">The greater irony and tragedy of this entire incident is that, it is this very Kerala and this very local population (of thumba) that gave up their coastal land and church to establish ISRO's Thumba equatorial rocket launching station (TERLS) in the early 1960s.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="4">The sacrifice of that little hamlet consisting of fishermen has led to so much advancement in India's science and technology capabilities and space-faring prowess.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="5">It is worthwhile to recall that India's space programme and indigenous space technology have saved countless lives of fishermen, sailors, and those living on the coast and beyond. ISRO has even made an ultra-portable device that helps fishermen send distress signals to satellites in order to receive immediate help and rescue.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="6">It appears that a significant number of people who blocked ISRO's cargo and demanded money have not come across these lesser-known facts and chapters of India's history.</p>


In an embarrassing incident that took place in Kerala’s capital, locals and head-load workers blocked a crucial piece of high-tech, heavy equipment that was being transported for the Indian Space Research Organization.

In an embarrassing incident that took place in Kerala’s capital, locals and head-load workers blocked a crucial piece of high-tech, heavy equipment that was being transported for the Indian Space Research Organization. The consignment weighing nearly 180tons was being carried on a special heavy-cargo haulier truck and moving towards ISRO’s Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (VSSC) in Thumba, Thiruvananthapuram when the incident occurred. VSSC is India’s lead centre for the development of rockets and related technologies. It is named after the Father of the Indian Space Programme. Despite the high COVID-19 cases in Kerala and the lockdown restrictions, locals and people affiliated with the political trade unions had gathered in large numbers around the truck and created a ruckus. Unmindful of the fact that ISRO’s cargo was being wheeled in with special security, the locals halted the vehicle’s movement for nearly two hours. In Kerala, the locals and workers unscrupulously demand unreasonable charges for unloading any cargo that is brought into their locality. Even if the owners of the cargo off-load it by themselves, the head-load workers demand exorbitant money. In Malayalam, this practice is known as ‘Nokku Kooli’, it loosely translates to gawking fees or gawking charges. Also read | India reports over 38,000 COVID-19 cases; lowest daily fatalities in 167 days It means that the workers will stand and stare, while the hapless people work and also shell out money to the workers. The workers consider that this unfair practice is their absolute right. Zee Media has understood that the locals and workers (who possessed no equipment and had nil expertise) wanted to unload the 180-ton cargo, demanded anywhere between Rs. 2000 per ton, which is upwards of Rs. 3.6lakhs. Some reports also say that the demand was as high as Rs.10lakhs. The demand for money was made even after knowing that such a heavy cargo could only be unloaded using specialised equipment and cranes. The concerned cargo was a component of a new Trisonic wind tunnel equipment that ISRO is building at its facility. A trisonic wind tunnel facility enables testing of aircraft and rocket prototypes at different speeds of airflow - subsonic, which is less than the speed of sound, transonic, which is close to the speed of sound, and supersonic, which is faster than the speed of sound. Simply put, wind tunnels are large air tubes used to study how model aircrafts or rockets would actually fly. It is learnt that this is, unfortunately, a routine issue in Kerala and in this case, the Police had to intervene after ISRO raised the matter seriously with the highest office in Kerala. It was only after the police convinced the gathered people that the crowd dispersed and the cargo was let into ISRO, after a delay of nearly two hours. The oversized cargo had arrived in Kollam, Kerala from Maharashtra via ship and it was being transported by a heavy-haulier truck to Thumba, Thiruvananthapuram. There have been reports alleging that ISRO did not honour its promise of providing jobs to the local population. This is despite having acquired land from there. It is noteworthy that ISRO acquired land for VSSC, back in the 1960s. Zee Media has understood from ISRO sources that the space agency has been employing people from the locality, spanning three generations. Several contracts worth lakhs of Rupees are also handed to the locals. According to the Kerala High Court, the practice of ’Nokku-Kooli was damaging the image of Kerala and the Court called for its eradication. While the Kerala Government banned the practice in 2018, it is still rampant and ongoing. Such practices have been adversely impacting the Southern India state’s capability to attract investments and help sustain small local businesses, despite the State Government’s tall claims of being “business-friendly”. The greater irony and tragedy of this entire incident is that, it is this very Kerala and this very local population (of thumba) that gave up their coastal land and church to establish ISRO's Thumba equatorial rocket launching station (TERLS) in the early 1960s. The sacrifice of that little hamlet consisting of fishermen has led to so much advancement in India's science and technology capabilities and space-faring prowess. It is worthwhile to recall that India's space programme and indigenous space technology have saved countless lives of fishermen, sailors, and those living on the coast and beyond. ISRO has even made an ultra-portable device that helps fishermen send distress signals to satellites in order to receive immediate help and rescue. It appears that a significant number of people who blocked ISRO's cargo and demanded money have not come across these lesser-known facts and chapters of India's history.

Head-load workers and locals block ISRO’s cargo and demand money for unloading

<p>India reported the biggest single-day rise in COVID-19 cases in two months today, as the government worries about the virus spreading from the most-affected Kerala state, schools reopening, and the start of the festival season.</p>

<p>Kerala accounted for nearly 70 per cent of the 47,092 new infections and a third of deaths.</p>

<p>This comes a week after it celebrated its biggest festival during which family and social gatherings were common.</p>

<p>"With cases rising in Kerala, adequate steps should be taken to contain the inter-state spread of COVID-19," Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said in a statement after speaking with his state counterparts in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, which border Kerala.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-narendra-modi-to-attend-sco-summit-virtually-410116"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend SCO summit virtually</strong></a></p>

<p>Also, he asked them to increase vaccination in the districts close to Kerala.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India has so far administered 662 million doses, with at least one dose in 54 per cent of its 944 million adults and the required two doses in 16 per cent.</p>

<p>"A decently managed vaccination programme, along with the hybrid immunity we're seeing now, makes a massive third wave unlikely," said clinical immunologist and rheumatologist Padmanabha Shenoy, who led the study and was referring to the immunity from natural infection and one vaccine dose.</p>

<p>The federal government has warned that like in Kerala, the rest of India could also see a rise in infections around the festival season.</p>

<p>India has so far reported about 32.9 million infections, the most in the world after the United States. Deaths went up by 509 on Thursday to a total of 439,529.</p>


India reported the biggest single-day rise in COVID-19 cases in two months today, as the government worries about the virus spreading from the most-affected Kerala state, schools reopening, and the start of the festival season.

India reported the biggest single-day rise in COVID-19 cases in two months today, as the government worries about the virus spreading from the most-affected Kerala state, schools reopening, and the start of the festival season. Kerala accounted for nearly 70 per cent of the 47,092 new infections and a third of deaths. This comes a week after it celebrated its biggest festival during which family and social gatherings were common. "With cases rising in Kerala, adequate steps should be taken to contain the inter-state spread of COVID-19," Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said in a statement after speaking with his state counterparts in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, which border Kerala. Also read | Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend SCO summit virtually Also, he asked them to increase vaccination in the districts close to Kerala. India has so far administered 662 million doses, with at least one dose in 54 per cent of its 944 million adults and the required two doses in 16 per cent. "A decently managed vaccination programme, along with the hybrid immunity we're seeing now, makes a massive third wave unlikely," said clinical immunologist and rheumatologist Padmanabha Shenoy, who led the study and was referring to the immunity from natural infection and one vaccine dose. The federal government has warned that like in Kerala, the rest of India could also see a rise in infections around the festival season. India has so far reported about 32.9 million infections, the most in the world after the United States. Deaths went up by 509 on Thursday to a total of 439,529.

India records highest COVID-19 cases in two months, worst-hit Kerala in focus

<p>India reported 42,909 new COVID-19 cases and 380 related fatalities in the last 24 hours, informed the Union Health Ministry on Monday.</p>

<p>Here, of the total cases reported in the country, Kerala logged 29,836 fresh cases of this virus yesterday and 75 fatalities. The test positivity rate is at a historic high of 19.67 per cent.</p>

<p>With this, the total death toll in the country touched 4,38,210 including the fresh fatalities. Of the 380 fresh fatalities, 75 deaths were from Kerala, 131 deaths were from Maharashtra, 67 deaths were from Odisha and the rest 107 deaths were reported from the rest of the states.</p>

<p>The total cases in the country are 3,26,95,030 with 3,76,324 active cases. Active cases account for 1.15 per cent of the total cases.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hurricane-ida-pummels-louisiana-power-lines-in-new-orleans-destroyed-409278"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Hurricane Ida pummels Louisiana; power lines in New Orleans destroyed</strong></a></p>

<p>The total recoveries reached 3,19,23,405 wherein 34,763 recoveries were reported in the last 24 hours. Following this, the recovery rate is currently at 97.51 per cent.</p>

<p>Of the 52.01 crore total tests conducted so far, daily positivity rate reported stands at 3.02 per cent. Also, the weekly positivity rate is at 2.41 per cent that is less than 3 per cent for last 66 days.</p>

<p>52,01,46,525 samples have been tested till date wherein 14,19,990 samples were tested yesterday to detect the virus, informed the Indian Council of Medical Research.</p>

<p>As a part of the ongoing vaccination drive, 63.43 crore vaccine doses have been administered till date in the country. India commenced its COVID-19 vaccination drive on January 16 this year.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Kerala Health Minister Veena George said on Sunday that a revised Covid-19 testing strategy is being introduced in the state in the wake of 71 per cent out of total population eligible to be vaccinated taking at least first dose of the vaccine against Coronavirus.</p>


India reported 42,909 new COVID-19 cases and 380 related fatalities in the last 24 hours, informed the Union Health Ministry on Monday. Here, of the total cases reported in the country, Kerala logged 29,836 fresh cases of this virus yesterday and 75 fatalities.

India reported 42,909 new COVID-19 cases and 380 related fatalities in the last 24 hours, informed the Union Health Ministry on Monday. Here, of the total cases reported in the country, Kerala logged 29,836 fresh cases of this virus yesterday and 75 fatalities. The test positivity rate is at a historic high of 19.67 per cent. With this, the total death toll in the country touched 4,38,210 including the fresh fatalities. Of the 380 fresh fatalities, 75 deaths were from Kerala, 131 deaths were from Maharashtra, 67 deaths were from Odisha and the rest 107 deaths were reported from the rest of the states. The total cases in the country are 3,26,95,030 with 3,76,324 active cases. Active cases account for 1.15 per cent of the total cases. Also read | Hurricane Ida pummels Louisiana; power lines in New Orleans destroyed The total recoveries reached 3,19,23,405 wherein 34,763 recoveries were reported in the last 24 hours. Following this, the recovery rate is currently at 97.51 per cent. Of the 52.01 crore total tests conducted so far, daily positivity rate reported stands at 3.02 per cent. Also, the weekly positivity rate is at 2.41 per cent that is less than 3 per cent for last 66 days. 52,01,46,525 samples have been tested till date wherein 14,19,990 samples were tested yesterday to detect the virus, informed the Indian Council of Medical Research. As a part of the ongoing vaccination drive, 63.43 crore vaccine doses have been administered till date in the country. India commenced its COVID-19 vaccination drive on January 16 this year. Meanwhile, Kerala Health Minister Veena George said on Sunday that a revised Covid-19 testing strategy is being introduced in the state in the wake of 71 per cent out of total population eligible to be vaccinated taking at least first dose of the vaccine against Coronavirus.

India reports 42,909 new COVID-19 infections, Kerala logs 29,836 cases

Political parties in Kerala are clashing over the Taliban's return in Afghanistan. Islamist groups in the state are openly cheering the events in Kabul. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how the Kabul shake-up is affecting Kerala.

Gravitas: Taliban's return triggers debate in Kerala

<p>Football star Lionel Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain after ending 21-year ties with Barcelona. Several PSG fans greeted the Argentine star and welcomed him to France.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/football-here-is-how-much-lionel-messi-will-be-%20making-at-paris-saint-germain-check-out-the-mind-blowing-figures-404840" hreflang="en">Football: Here is how much Lionel Messi will be making at PSG - Check out the mind-blowing figures</a></p>

<p>Among the thousands of fans, there were few Indians who wanted to catch the glimpse of the football star. The Indian fans, who were on the adjacent balcony called out Messi's name, and the footballer acknowledged them. They uploaded the video of this 'unforgettable' moment on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video of Messi acknowledging the Indian fans spread like a wildfire on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here's the clip of the moment:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A Malayali’s ecstasy on having seen Lionel Messi on the balcony just beside his in Paris… <a href="https://t.co/lb0oJF77Kb">pic.twitter.com/lb0oJF77Kb</a></p>
— Ashlin Mathew (@ashlinpmathew) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashlinpmathew/status/1425492321118740491?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Indian fan kept screaming Messi's name and&nbsp;was shocked when the football icon&nbsp;acknowledged him. The overjoyed fan screamed "can't believe this" before he switched to his native language (Malayalam) and said: "Watch on sons, the king of football."</p>

<p>"There's nothing I&nbsp;want more than this", he said and thanked the star.</p>

<p>Lionel Messi said on Wednesday that he is 'extremely happy' after joining star-packed French football club Paris St Germain and added that his aim is to win the Champions League for the team.</p>

<p>The 34-year-old superstar signed a two-year deal with PSG on Tuesday with the option of an additional year.</p>

<p>"Everything about the club matches my football ambitions," said Messi, who was given a hero's welcome by the PSG fans when he arrived in the French capital on Tuesday.</p>

<p>"I am determined to help build something special for the club and the fans, and I am looking forward to stepping out onto the pitch at the Parc des Princes."</p>

<p>The move will add the Argentine, one of the best players of his generation, to an already formidable PSG attack that includes Brazil's Neymar and French World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe.</p>

<p>The arrival of Barcelona's record scorer, with 672 goals, will boost Qatari-owned PSG's ambitions to win the prestigious, and lucrative, European Champions League for the first time.</p>

<p>Nasser al-Khelaifi, the president and CEO of Paris St Germain, said it was an "amazing and historic day" to present Lionel Messi as a player for the French soccer powerhouse.</p>

<p>"He makes football magic, beautiful. He is a winner," al-Khelaifi told a news conference.</p>

<p>French Football League president Vincent Labrune hailed the surprise arrival of the six-time Ballon d'Or winner as "extraordinary news for the exposure of Ligue 1 internationally".</p>

<p>PSG wasted little time in targeting Messi after the heavily indebted Catalan club made clear it could not afford to keep him because of La Liga's financial fair play rules.</p>


Football star Lionel Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain after ending 21-year ties with Barcelona. Several PSG fans greeted the Argentine star and welcomed him to France.

Football star Lionel Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain after ending 21-year ties with Barcelona. Several PSG fans greeted the Argentine star and welcomed him to France. ALSO READ: Football: Here is how much Lionel Messi will be making at PSG - Check out the mind-blowing figures Among the thousands of fans, there were few Indians who wanted to catch the glimpse of the football star. The Indian fans, who were on the adjacent balcony called out Messi's name, and the footballer acknowledged them. They uploaded the video of this 'unforgettable' moment on social media. The video of Messi acknowledging the Indian fans spread like a wildfire on social media. Here's the clip of the moment: A Malayali’s ecstasy on having seen Lionel Messi on the balcony just beside his in Paris… pic.twitter.com/lb0oJF77Kb — Ashlin Mathew (@ashlinpmathew) August 11, 2021 × The Indian fan kept screaming Messi's name and was shocked when the football icon acknowledged him. The overjoyed fan screamed "can't believe this" before he switched to his native language (Malayalam) and said: "Watch on sons, the king of football." "There's nothing I want more than this", he said and thanked the star. Lionel Messi said on Wednesday that he is 'extremely happy' after joining star-packed French football club Paris St Germain and added that his aim is to win the Champions League for the team. The 34-year-old superstar signed a two-year deal with PSG on Tuesday with the option of an additional year. "Everything about the club matches my football ambitions," said Messi, who was given a hero's welcome by the PSG fans when he arrived in the French capital on Tuesday. "I am determined to help build something special for the club and the fans, and I am looking forward to stepping out onto the pitch at the Parc des Princes." The move will add the Argentine, one of the best players of his generation, to an already formidable PSG attack that includes Brazil's Neymar and French World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe. The arrival of Barcelona's record scorer, with 672 goals, will boost Qatari-owned PSG's ambitions to win the prestigious, and lucrative, European Champions League for the first time. Nasser al-Khelaifi, the president and CEO of Paris St Germain, said it was an "amazing and historic day" to present Lionel Messi as a player for the French soccer powerhouse. "He makes football magic, beautiful. He is a winner," al-Khelaifi told a news conference. French Football League president Vincent Labrune hailed the surprise arrival of the six-time Ballon d'Or winner as "extraordinary news for the exposure of Ligue 1 internationally". PSG wasted little time in targeting Messi after the heavily indebted Catalan club made clear it could not afford to keep him because of La Liga's financial fair play rules.

Watch: 'I dont want anything more': Indian fan screams after Messi waves at him from Paris balcony, video goes viral

<p>Kerala reported 13,049 fresh <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> cases pushing the total infection caseload to 35,65,574, with the number of people succumbing to the virus rising to 17,852 after 105 more deaths.</p>

<p>As many as 20,004 people have been cured of the infection since Sunday, taking the total recoveries to 33,77,691 and the number of active cases in the state to1,69,512, a state government release said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-hit-hard-by-drop-in-remittances-as-12-million-workers-return-world-bank-384905">Kerala hit hard by drop in remittances as 1.2 million workers return: World Bank</a></strong></p>

<p>In the last 24 hours, 98,640 samples were tested and the TPR was found to be 13.23 per cent.</p>

<p>So far, 2,86,12,776 samples have been tested, it said.</p>

<p>Some of the worst affected districts in the state are Malappuram (2052), Thrissur (1762), Kozhikode (1526), Palakkad (1336), Ernakulam (1329) and Kannur (944).</p>

<p>Of the new cases, 58 are health workers, 64 had come from outside the state and 12,300 were infected through contact with the source of contact being not clear in 627 cases, the release said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-confirms-fourth-case-of-zika-virus-397910">Kerala confirms fourth case of Zika virus</a></strong></p>

<p>There are currently 4,86,836 people under surveillance in various districts of the state.</p>

<p>Of these, 4,57,494 are in-home or institutional quarantine and 29,342 in hospitals.&nbsp;</p>


Kerala reported 13,049 fresh COVID-19 cases pushing the total infection caseload to 35,65,574, with the number of people succumbing to the virus rising to 17,852 after 105 more deaths.

Kerala reported 13,049 fresh COVID-19 cases pushing the total infection caseload to 35,65,574, with the number of people succumbing to the virus rising to 17,852 after 105 more deaths. As many as 20,004 people have been cured of the infection since Sunday, taking the total recoveries to 33,77,691 and the number of active cases in the state to1,69,512, a state government release said. Also read | Kerala hit hard by drop in remittances as 1.2 million workers return: World Bank In the last 24 hours, 98,640 samples were tested and the TPR was found to be 13.23 per cent. So far, 2,86,12,776 samples have been tested, it said. Some of the worst affected districts in the state are Malappuram (2052), Thrissur (1762), Kozhikode (1526), Palakkad (1336), Ernakulam (1329) and Kannur (944). Of the new cases, 58 are health workers, 64 had come from outside the state and 12,300 were infected through contact with the source of contact being not clear in 627 cases, the release said. Also read | Kerala confirms fourth case of Zika virus There are currently 4,86,836 people under surveillance in various districts of the state. Of these, 4,57,494 are in-home or institutional quarantine and 29,342 in hospitals.

Kerala Covid cases tally: 13,049 fresh COVID-19 cases, 105 more deaths

<p>Kerala Government on Sunday extended the lockdown restrictions till June 9 in all its districts.</p>

<p>"Special intensified stringent restrictions enforced in the district of Malappuram will cease to exist from 00:00 of May 30. Thereafter the lockdown restrictions shall be uniform in all districts of the state," according to an official order.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the state government allowed industrial establishments and production centres (including cash, coir and mining) to function with minimum staff not exceeding 50 per cent of staff strength.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan took to Twitter saying, "Lockdown extended for all of Kerala till 9 June, with certain relaxations. All industries can function with minimal staff, not to exceed 50 per cent strength.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Banks will continue on Mon, Wed, Fri. Time extended till 5 pm. Triple lockdown in Malappuram will stand repealed from 30 May."According to Union Health Ministry Kerala has 2,38,210 active COVID-19 cases. The total number of recoveries has reached 22,24,405 and fatalities have mounted to 8,257.</p>


Kerala Government on Sunday extended the lockdown restrictions till June 9 in all its districts. "Special intensified stringent restrictions enforced in the district of Malappuram will cease to exist from 00:00 of May 30.

Kerala Government on Sunday extended the lockdown restrictions till June 9 in all its districts. "Special intensified stringent restrictions enforced in the district of Malappuram will cease to exist from 00:00 of May 30. Thereafter the lockdown restrictions shall be uniform in all districts of the state," according to an official order. However, the state government allowed industrial establishments and production centres (including cash, coir and mining) to function with minimum staff not exceeding 50 per cent of staff strength. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan took to Twitter saying, "Lockdown extended for all of Kerala till 9 June, with certain relaxations. All industries can function with minimal staff, not to exceed 50 per cent strength. Banks will continue on Mon, Wed, Fri. Time extended till 5 pm. Triple lockdown in Malappuram will stand repealed from 30 May."According to Union Health Ministry Kerala has 2,38,210 active COVID-19 cases. The total number of recoveries has reached 22,24,405 and fatalities have mounted to 8,257.

Kerala extends COVID-19 lockdown till June 9

<p>Kerala has been hit hard by the drop in remittances from the Gulf countries from where about 1.2 million workers returned to the state due to the Covid-driven layoffs, according to the World Bank.<br />
<br />
Overall, the total remittances from Indian workers abroad was $8.3 billion in 2020, a drop of only 0.2 per cent from the previous year, the Bank`s Migration and Development Brief released on Wednesday revealed.<br />
<br />
India`s remittances from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) recorded a steep decline of 17 per cent, but it was offset by resilient flows from the US and other host countries, it said.<br />
<br />
India remains the world`s top recipient of remittances in total value, a status it reached in 2008, according to the brief.<br />
<br />
However, remittances to India are nowhere near the top when it comes to their share of the gross domestic product (GDP).<br />
<br />
Remittances make up a far more important share of the GDP for smaller countries like Tonga and Lebanon.<br />
<br />
The exodus of foreign workers from the seven-member countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) last year hit Kerala hard, according to the brief.<br />
<br />
The Bank said that in "Kerala, an estimated 1.2 million migrant workers, out of more than 4 million who worked in the GCC countries and contributed 30 per cent of the state`s income, returned in 2020 after the global pandemic left them jobless. Low-skilled workers were the hardest hit".<br />
<br />
In that state the monthly remittances to families receiving them fell on average by $267, the brief said.<br />
<br />
The brief listed the US as the largest source of remittances, followed by the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Russia.<br />
<br />
For the South Asian region, remittances rose by about 5 per cent because of increased flows to Bangladesh, Pakistan, Bhutan and Sri Lanka, according to the brief.<br />
<br />
Like India, Nepal also experienced a small drop in remittances, it added.<br />
<br />
For next year, the bank projected the remittances to the region to dip slightly to 3.5 per cent "due to a moderation of growth in high-income economies and a further expected drop in migration to the GCC countries".<br />
<br />
The main factor in the level of remittances holding up was family loyalties and the stimulus payments in some countries where the workers were located.<br />
<br />
The author of the report, Dilip Ratha said: "The willingness to help family members was enabled by fiscal measures in almost all host countries that resulted in better-than-expected economic performance.<br />
<br />
"A second enabling factor was that businesses in many host countries were better prepared for remote work and remote provision of services which also supported employment."</p>


Kerala has been hit hard by the drop in remittances from the Gulf countries from where about 1.2 million workers returned to the state due to the Covid-driven layoffs, according to the World Bank.

Kerala has been hit hard by the drop in remittances from the Gulf countries from where about 1.2 million workers returned to the state due to the Covid-driven layoffs, according to the World Bank. Overall, the total remittances from Indian workers abroad was $8.3 billion in 2020, a drop of only 0.2 per cent from the previous year, the Bank`s Migration and Development Brief released on Wednesday revealed. India`s remittances from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) recorded a steep decline of 17 per cent, but it was offset by resilient flows from the US and other host countries, it said. India remains the world`s top recipient of remittances in total value, a status it reached in 2008, according to the brief. However, remittances to India are nowhere near the top when it comes to their share of the gross domestic product (GDP). Remittances make up a far more important share of the GDP for smaller countries like Tonga and Lebanon. The exodus of foreign workers from the seven-member countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) last year hit Kerala hard, according to the brief. The Bank said that in "Kerala, an estimated 1.2 million migrant workers, out of more than 4 million who worked in the GCC countries and contributed 30 per cent of the state`s income, returned in 2020 after the global pandemic left them jobless. Low-skilled workers were the hardest hit". In that state the monthly remittances to families receiving them fell on average by $267, the brief said. The brief listed the US as the largest source of remittances, followed by the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Russia. For the South Asian region, remittances rose by about 5 per cent because of increased flows to Bangladesh, Pakistan, Bhutan and Sri Lanka, according to the brief. Like India, Nepal also experienced a small drop in remittances, it added. For next year, the bank projected the remittances to the region to dip slightly to 3.5 per cent "due to a moderation of growth in high-income economies and a further expected drop in migration to the GCC countries". The main factor in the level of remittances holding up was family loyalties and the stimulus payments in some countries where the workers were located. The author of the report, Dilip Ratha said: "The willingness to help family members was enabled by fiscal measures in almost all host countries that resulted in better-than-expected economic performance. "A second enabling factor was that businesses in many host countries were better prepared for remote work and remote provision of services which also supported employment."

Kerala hit hard by drop in remittances as 1.2 million workers return: World Bank

<p>Amid a massive surge in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus </a>cases, the southern Indian state of Kerala on Thursday announced a complete lockdown from May 8.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The decision comes as Kerala on Wednesday recorded nearly 42,000 infections, the state's highest single-day cases so far.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan said that the lockdown will be imposed in the state from May 8 at 6 am and will remain in place to May 16, as reported by news agency ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-high-court-asks-centre-why-it-should-not-face-contempt-for-failing-to-supply-oxygen-383121/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Vijayan had on Wednesday hinted at tightening restrictions as he expressed concerns over a "very serious situation".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The state is going through a very serious situation and Covid is spreading rapidly. All figures are increasing and the test positivity rate is not reducing either. In these circumstances, we need to strengthen the restrictions," Vijayan was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The chief minister also said that as cases are rising, the oxygen stock is decreasing "very rapidly," urging the central government to address the issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/experts-make-dire-projections-amid-second-covid-wave-as-india-faces-medical-shortages-383084">Experts make dire projections amid second Covid wave as India faces medical shortages</a></strong></p>

<p>"In this scenario, we need the Centre's help in maintaining adequate stock of oxygen. I have requested the prime minister to provide 1,000 MT of imported liquefied medical oxygen to the state," Vijayan said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, India on Thursday witnessed another grim milestone with a daily record of 412,262 new infections.</p>

<p>With 3,980 fresh fatalities, India's death toll stands at 230,168.&nbsp;</p>


Amid a massive surge in coronavirus cases, the southern Indian state of Kerala on Thursday announced a complete lockdown from May 8. The decision comes as Kerala on Wednesday recorded nearly 42,000 infections, the state's highest single-day cases so far.

Amid a massive surge in coronavirus cases, the southern Indian state of Kerala on Thursday announced a complete lockdown from May 8. The decision comes as Kerala on Wednesday recorded nearly 42,000 infections, the state's highest single-day cases so far. Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan said that the lockdown will be imposed in the state from May 8 at 6 am and will remain in place to May 16, as reported by news agency ANI. Watch | Vijayan had on Wednesday hinted at tightening restrictions as he expressed concerns over a "very serious situation". "The state is going through a very serious situation and Covid is spreading rapidly. All figures are increasing and the test positivity rate is not reducing either. In these circumstances, we need to strengthen the restrictions," Vijayan was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. The chief minister also said that as cases are rising, the oxygen stock is decreasing "very rapidly," urging the central government to address the issue. Also read | Experts make dire projections amid second Covid wave as India faces medical shortages "In this scenario, we need the Centre's help in maintaining adequate stock of oxygen. I have requested the prime minister to provide 1,000 MT of imported liquefied medical oxygen to the state," Vijayan said. Meanwhile, India on Thursday witnessed another grim milestone with a daily record of 412,262 new infections. With 3,980 fresh fatalities, India's death toll stands at 230,168.

COVID-19 in India: Southern state of Kerala announces complete lockdown

<p>The ruling Trinamool Congress scored an emphatic victory in West Bengal in the face of stiff challenge posed by BJP with the Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee leading the party to its third successive victory in assembly polls.While the BJP-led NDA retained Assam, the ruling LDF created history by retaining Kerala. DMK is poised to oust AIADMK in Tamil Nadu and in Puducherry, where Congress chief minister V Naryanasamy had resigned earlier this year, NR Congress-led NDA came to power.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The counting was held amid COVID-19 protocols. With a surge in cases in the country, no victory processions were allowed. In West Bengal, TMC has already won 198 seats and is leading on another 16 out of the total 292 seats for which elections were held. The party is poised to improve its 2016 tally of&nbsp;seats. However, Mamata Banerjee was defeated in Nandigram by her former ministerial colleague and BJP candidate Suvendu Adhikari. BJP, which had only three MLAs in the outgoing assembly, has won 48 seats and is leading on eight more. The party has major inroads in the state. One Independent candidate has also won in West Bengal while Rashtriya Secular Majlis Party is leading on one seat. The Samyukta alliance comprising Congress, Left parties and ISF failed to open its account.</p>

<p><strong>Assam</strong></p>

<p>In 126-member Assam assembly, BJP has won 47 seats and is leading on 12. Its alliance partner AGP has won nine seats and UPPL six seats. In Mahajot alliance, Congress won 21 seats and is leading on eight, AIUDF won ten seats and is leading on six, CPI-M won one seat and BPF won three seats and is leading on one. Independents won one seat and are leading on another.</p>

<p><strong>Puducherry</strong></p>

<p>In 30-member Puducherry assembly, NR Congress won 10 seats and BJP six. DMK has won five seats and is leading on one, Congress won two seats and independents six seats. AIADMK failed to open its account.</p>

<p><strong>Tamil Nadu</strong></p>

<p>The DMK-led alliance scored an emphatic win in Tamil Nadu. According to the latest trends from the Election Commission, DMK has already won 62 seats and is leading on 71 in the 234-member assembly.AIADMK also won 26 seats and is leading on 43 while its ally BJP won on one seat and is leading on three seats. Paattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) has won one seat and is leading on three others. Congress, which is an ally of DMK has won 3 seats and is leading on 13 more. DMK`s other allies CPI and CPI (M) have won one seat each and are leading on one seat each and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) has won two and is leading on two more.</p>

<p><strong>Kerala</strong></p>

<p>In Kerala, all results have been declared with CPI-M winning 62 seats. Among the other constituents of LDF, CPI has won 17 seats, Kerala Congress (M) has won five seats, NCP and Janata Dal (Secular) both won two seats each and Janadhipathya Kerala Congress also won one seat.LDF allies Loktantrik Janata Dal (LJD), Indian National League (INL), and Kerala Congress (B) also won one seat each.In the UDF`s pavilion, Congress has won 21 seats, IUML won 15, and Kerala Congress (Jacob) one seat.West Bengal saw eight-phase polling, Assam went for three-phased election while Kerala, Puducherry and Tamil Nadu went for single-phase election on April 6.</p>


The ruling Trinamool Congress scored an emphatic victory in West Bengal in the face of stiff challenge posed by BJP with the Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee leading the party to its third successive victory in assembly polls.

The ruling Trinamool Congress scored an emphatic victory in West Bengal in the face of stiff challenge posed by BJP with the Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee leading the party to its third successive victory in assembly polls.While the BJP-led NDA retained Assam, the ruling LDF created history by retaining Kerala. DMK is poised to oust AIADMK in Tamil Nadu and in Puducherry, where Congress chief minister V Naryanasamy had resigned earlier this year, NR Congress-led NDA came to power. The counting was held amid COVID-19 protocols. With a surge in cases in the country, no victory processions were allowed. In West Bengal, TMC has already won 198 seats and is leading on another 16 out of the total 292 seats for which elections were held. The party is poised to improve its 2016 tally of seats. However, Mamata Banerjee was defeated in Nandigram by her former ministerial colleague and BJP candidate Suvendu Adhikari. BJP, which had only three MLAs in the outgoing assembly, has won 48 seats and is leading on eight more. The party has major inroads in the state. One Independent candidate has also won in West Bengal while Rashtriya Secular Majlis Party is leading on one seat. The Samyukta alliance comprising Congress, Left parties and ISF failed to open its account. Assam In 126-member Assam assembly, BJP has won 47 seats and is leading on 12. Its alliance partner AGP has won nine seats and UPPL six seats. In Mahajot alliance, Congress won 21 seats and is leading on eight, AIUDF won ten seats and is leading on six, CPI-M won one seat and BPF won three seats and is leading on one. Independents won one seat and are leading on another. Puducherry In 30-member Puducherry assembly, NR Congress won 10 seats and BJP six. DMK has won five seats and is leading on one, Congress won two seats and independents six seats. AIADMK failed to open its account. Tamil Nadu The DMK-led alliance scored an emphatic win in Tamil Nadu. According to the latest trends from the Election Commission, DMK has already won 62 seats and is leading on 71 in the 234-member assembly.AIADMK also won 26 seats and is leading on 43 while its ally BJP won on one seat and is leading on three seats. Paattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) has won one seat and is leading on three others. Congress, which is an ally of DMK has won 3 seats and is leading on 13 more. DMK`s other allies CPI and CPI (M) have won one seat each and are leading on one seat each and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) has won two and is leading on two more. Kerala In Kerala, all results have been declared with CPI-M winning 62 seats. Among the other constituents of LDF, CPI has won 17 seats, Kerala Congress (M) has won five seats, NCP and Janata Dal (Secular) both won two seats each and Janadhipathya Kerala Congress also won one seat.LDF allies Loktantrik Janata Dal (LJD), Indian National League (INL), and Kerala Congress (B) also won one seat each.In the UDF`s pavilion, Congress has won 21 seats, IUML won 15, and Kerala Congress (Jacob) one seat.West Bengal saw eight-phase polling, Assam went for three-phased election while Kerala, Puducherry and Tamil Nadu went for single-phase election on April 6.

Trinamool scores hat-trick in Bengal, BJP retains Assam, LDF keeps Kerala

<p>An Indian jewellery advertisement is catching everyone's attention for all the right reasons. The ad features a transgender model and explores her journey of becoming a woman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The brand- Bhima Jewellers- is based in Kochi, a city in the Indian state of Kerala and features transperson and activist Meera Singhania in the lead.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
The advertisement shows the journey of a young nervous boy transforming slowly into a confident young woman. Her family gifts jewellery at various junctures in her life as she discovers her true identity and ends with the family gearing up for her wedding, adorned in the finest gold jewellery.&nbsp;</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NtaLr_r8R2E" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>The ad has so far crossed over 600,000 views on YouTube and is being hailed by Twitterati.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I'm not crying, you're crying. <a href="https://t.co/sHgaRhCZWX">https://t.co/sHgaRhCZWX</a></p>
— Vir Das (@thevirdas) <a href="https://twitter.com/thevirdas/status/1382622546374316035?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Posting this again because needs to be amplified<br />
♥️ <a href="https://t.co/4CppEqtNW1">https://t.co/4CppEqtNW1</a></p>
— Shruti Seth (@SethShruti) <a href="https://twitter.com/SethShruti/status/1382744843022061568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">One of the best things I saw while scrolling through this app in the last 2 days.<br />
<br />
Brilliant ad-making and a message which is welcoming<br />
<br />
For better days :)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LGBTQAwareness?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LGBTQAwareness</a> <a href="https://t.co/Tv0W5fTYTb">https://t.co/Tv0W5fTYTb</a></p>
— Sharath M (@sharannavala) <a href="https://twitter.com/sharannavala/status/1383835415489093640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Not sure if it is a model who actually transitioned but I loved this ad. I am not into gold at all but next time I go to India I might buy something in gold for me or my son from Bhima. <a href="https://t.co/tWza7WeE4R">https://t.co/tWza7WeE4R</a></p>
— LoudPotato (@LoudPotato) <a href="https://twitter.com/LoudPotato/status/1383823907346522120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Such a beautiful and progressive ad ❤<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BhimaJewellary?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BhimaJewellary</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PureAsLove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PureAsLove</a> <a href="https://t.co/gTeFYlAPLs">https://t.co/gTeFYlAPLs</a></p>
— helly_admirers (@AdmirersHelly) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdmirersHelly/status/1383497124545916930?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Advertising as social communication. Inclusive and empathetic <a href="https://t.co/vPL2sDN1qo">https://t.co/vPL2sDN1qo</a></p>
— Kulveen Trehan (@kulveentrehan) <a href="https://twitter.com/kulveentrehan/status/1383128926348660741?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The advertisement is not only important as it's a first to have a trans person playing the lead, but it also beautifully highlights the importance of love and acceptance for the LGBTQ community.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Model Meera Singhania shared a few glimpses of the ad on her Instagram page and recalled how it was tough to play her older self and how she took it up as a challenge.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"People asked me my favourite shot in the entire film. Now don't get me wrong, the bus shot is really pretty, except I find this more comforting. As someone who goes through dysphoria, ( Google dysphoria, I'm not doing the labour) its not an easy task for a post op transwoman, to act in her pre op self. It can be a little heavy mentally, given the baggage. I took this role as a challenge, and I think I didn't act. Maybe I didn't have to. Despite the hectic shoot schedule, and the annoying makeovers, I think I pulled it off. I've never felt as happy as I did, after packup. I did it. I thought I'd make a fool, instead I feel like I breathe better," wrote Meera as she shared her favourite still from the ad.&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CN1gM57spVg/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Meera Singhania Rehani (@meerasinghaniarehani)</a></p>
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<p>The advertisement has been directed by Bharat Sikka and written by Sheetal Raghav.&nbsp;</p>


An Indian jewellery advertisement is catching everyone's attention for all the right reasons. The ad features a transgender model and explores her journey of becoming a woman.

An Indian jewellery advertisement is catching everyone's attention for all the right reasons. The ad features a transgender model and explores her journey of becoming a woman. The brand- Bhima Jewellers- is based in Kochi, a city in the Indian state of Kerala and features transperson and activist Meera Singhania in the lead. The advertisement shows the journey of a young nervous boy transforming slowly into a confident young woman. Her family gifts jewellery at various junctures in her life as she discovers her true identity and ends with the family gearing up for her wedding, adorned in the finest gold jewellery. The ad has so far crossed over 600,000 views on YouTube and is being hailed by Twitterati. I'm not crying, you're crying. https://t.co/sHgaRhCZWX — Vir Das (@thevirdas) April 15, 2021 × Posting this again because needs to be amplified ♥️ https://t.co/4CppEqtNW1 — Shruti Seth (@SethShruti) April 15, 2021 × One of the best things I saw while scrolling through this app in the last 2 days. Brilliant ad-making and a message which is welcoming For better days :)#LGBTQAwareness https://t.co/Tv0W5fTYTb — Sharath M (@sharannavala) April 18, 2021 × Not sure if it is a model who actually transitioned but I loved this ad. I am not into gold at all but next time I go to India I might buy something in gold for me or my son from Bhima. https://t.co/tWza7WeE4R — LoudPotato (@LoudPotato) April 18, 2021 × Such a beautiful and progressive ad ❤#BhimaJewellary #PureAsLove https://t.co/gTeFYlAPLs — helly_admirers (@AdmirersHelly) April 17, 2021 × Advertising as social communication. Inclusive and empathetic https://t.co/vPL2sDN1qo — Kulveen Trehan (@kulveentrehan) April 16, 2021 × The advertisement is not only important as it's a first to have a trans person playing the lead, but it also beautifully highlights the importance of love and acceptance for the LGBTQ community. Model Meera Singhania shared a few glimpses of the ad on her Instagram page and recalled how it was tough to play her older self and how she took it up as a challenge. "People asked me my favourite shot in the entire film. Now don't get me wrong, the bus shot is really pretty, except I find this more comforting. As someone who goes through dysphoria, ( Google dysphoria, I'm not doing the labour) its not an easy task for a post op transwoman, to act in her pre op self. It can be a little heavy mentally, given the baggage. I took this role as a challenge, and I think I didn't act. Maybe I didn't have to. Despite the hectic shoot schedule, and the annoying makeovers, I think I pulled it off. I've never felt as happy as I did, after packup. I did it. I thought I'd make a fool, instead I feel like I breathe better," wrote Meera as she shared her favourite still from the ad. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Meera Singhania Rehani (@meerasinghaniarehani) × The advertisement has been directed by Bharat Sikka and written by Sheetal Raghav.

Indian jewellery ad featuring a transwoman is winning the Internet for all right reasons

<p>The Election Commission on Friday announced the election dates for 824 assembly constituencies that will go to polls in four states and one union territory.</p>

<p>Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora said that West Bengal will go to polls in 8 phases and Assam in three phases while Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry will have a single-phase election.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As many as 18.68 crore voters will be eligible to cast their votes at 2.7 lakh polling stations for 824 assembly seats across Assam, West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.</p>

<p>The elections for the five assemblies are expected to witness a determined attempt by the BJP to put a strong show, including in Assam where it is already in power, as well as in West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry where the saffron party has been pushing hard in recent years.</p>

<p>Elections in Assam will be conducted in three phases on March 27, April 1 and April 6, while polling in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry will take place in a single phase on April 6.</p>

<p>Elections for the West Bengal assembly will be held in eight phases, up from seven last time, beginning with polling for 30 seats on March 27, Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora said while announcing the poll schedule.</p>

<p>The second phase of West Bengal's assembly elections has been scheduled for April 1 and will cover 30 constituencies, followed by the third phase on April 6 for 31 seats, the fourth on April 10 for 44 constituencies, the fifth on April 17 for 45 seats, sixth for 43 seats on April 22, seventh phase on April 26 for 36 seats and last and eighth phase on April 29 for 35 seats, Arora said.</p>

<p>The Election Commission will appoint two special observers for West Bengal and a third can also be sent if required, Arora said in response to queries on whether enough arrangements are in place for the polls in the state, where many have been raising questions about political violence.</p>

<p>Arora also said everyone on election duty for the upcoming polls will?be vaccinated against COVID-19 before polling day.</p>

<p>Voting will take place for 126 seats in Assam, 234 in Tamil Nadu, 294 in West Bengal, 140 in Kerala and 30 in Puducherry.</p>

<p>Arrangements will be put in place for candidates to file their nominations online. Voting will be allowed for an additional hour, keeping in mind COVID-19 safety guidelines, he said.</p>

<p>Also, webcasting arrangements will be in place at polling stations in critical and vulnerable areas, while adequate CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces) deployment will be ensured, Arora said. All critical and vulnerable areas have been identified and advance teams have been already deployed across the four states and one union territory, he added.</p>

<p>He said door-to-door campaigning will be restricted to five persons, including the candidate, while roadshows will be allowed with a maximum of five vehicles.</p>

<p>According to Arora, the nationwide vaccination drive has made the situation more conducive for conducting elections and the Health Ministry has declared everyone on poll duty as frontline workers for vaccination purposes.</p>

<p>All poll officials will be vaccinated before the elections, Arora said.</p>

<p>Arora, who will demit office on April 13, also said all must be congratulated for the successful conduct of elections in Bihar last year despite the COVID-19 challenges and he is confident of success once again.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Election Commission on Friday announced the election dates for 824 assembly constituencies that will go to polls in four states and one union territory. Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora said that West Bengal will go to polls in 8 phases and Assam in three phases while Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry will have a single-phase election.

The Election Commission on Friday announced the election dates for 824 assembly constituencies that will go to polls in four states and one union territory. Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora said that West Bengal will go to polls in 8 phases and Assam in three phases while Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry will have a single-phase election. As many as 18.68 crore voters will be eligible to cast their votes at 2.7 lakh polling stations for 824 assembly seats across Assam, West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. The elections for the five assemblies are expected to witness a determined attempt by the BJP to put a strong show, including in Assam where it is already in power, as well as in West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry where the saffron party has been pushing hard in recent years. Elections in Assam will be conducted in three phases on March 27, April 1 and April 6, while polling in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry will take place in a single phase on April 6. Elections for the West Bengal assembly will be held in eight phases, up from seven last time, beginning with polling for 30 seats on March 27, Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora said while announcing the poll schedule. The second phase of West Bengal's assembly elections has been scheduled for April 1 and will cover 30 constituencies, followed by the third phase on April 6 for 31 seats, the fourth on April 10 for 44 constituencies, the fifth on April 17 for 45 seats, sixth for 43 seats on April 22, seventh phase on April 26 for 36 seats and last and eighth phase on April 29 for 35 seats, Arora said. The Election Commission will appoint two special observers for West Bengal and a third can also be sent if required, Arora said in response to queries on whether enough arrangements are in place for the polls in the state, where many have been raising questions about political violence. Arora also said everyone on election duty for the upcoming polls will?be vaccinated against COVID-19 before polling day. Voting will take place for 126 seats in Assam, 234 in Tamil Nadu, 294 in West Bengal, 140 in Kerala and 30 in Puducherry. Arrangements will be put in place for candidates to file their nominations online. Voting will be allowed for an additional hour, keeping in mind COVID-19 safety guidelines, he said. Also, webcasting arrangements will be in place at polling stations in critical and vulnerable areas, while adequate CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces) deployment will be ensured, Arora said. All critical and vulnerable areas have been identified and advance teams have been already deployed across the four states and one union territory, he added. He said door-to-door campaigning will be restricted to five persons, including the candidate, while roadshows will be allowed with a maximum of five vehicles. According to Arora, the nationwide vaccination drive has made the situation more conducive for conducting elections and the Health Ministry has declared everyone on poll duty as frontline workers for vaccination purposes. All poll officials will be vaccinated before the elections, Arora said. Arora, who will demit office on April 13, also said all must be congratulated for the successful conduct of elections in Bihar last year despite the COVID-19 challenges and he is confident of success once again. (With inputs from agencies)

Voting in West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Assam and Puducherry between March 27 and April 29, results on May 2

<p>At an age when many people pursue their higher education, Arya Rajendran is all set to reportedly become India's youngest mayor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Communist Party of India- Marxist (CPI-M) has selected Rajendran as its mayor candidate after the party won a majority in the 100-member council.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Rajanedran, BSc Mathematics student, is the first-time councillor from Mudavanmugal division of Thiruvananthapuram corporation.</p>

<p>"It's the decision of the party and I abide by it. During the elections, people preferred me as I am a student and the public wanted their representative to be well educated. I will continue my education and will discharge my duties as a Mayor," Rajendran told media persons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>CPI-M's district and state committees have put forward her name for the role of mayor as the party seeks to bring more educated women in the leadership role. &nbsp;</p>

<p>With this, Rajendran will become reportedly the country's youngest mayor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the local body election, CPI-M became the largest party after claiming 51 seats.</p>

<p>BJP will be the main opposition with 35 seats and Congress-led UDF alliance was in the third spot with 10 councillors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>News agency IANS said that the name of Gayatri Babu, 23-year-old councillor, also came up for the post of mayor, but Rajendran was given nod as she heads the state's "Balasangam", the party`s children`s wing and also is the CPI(M) area committee member.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


At an age when many people pursue their higher education, Arya Rajendran is all set to reportedly become India's youngest mayor. The Communist Party of India- Marxist (CPI-M) has selected Rajendran as its mayor candidate after the party won a majority in the 100-member council.

At an age when many people pursue their higher education, Arya Rajendran is all set to reportedly become India's youngest mayor. The Communist Party of India- Marxist (CPI-M) has selected Rajendran as its mayor candidate after the party won a majority in the 100-member council. Rajanedran, BSc Mathematics student, is the first-time councillor from Mudavanmugal division of Thiruvananthapuram corporation. "It's the decision of the party and I abide by it. During the elections, people preferred me as I am a student and the public wanted their representative to be well educated. I will continue my education and will discharge my duties as a Mayor," Rajendran told media persons. CPI-M's district and state committees have put forward her name for the role of mayor as the party seeks to bring more educated women in the leadership role. With this, Rajendran will become reportedly the country's youngest mayor. In the local body election, CPI-M became the largest party after claiming 51 seats. BJP will be the main opposition with 35 seats and Congress-led UDF alliance was in the third spot with 10 councillors. News agency IANS said that the name of Gayatri Babu, 23-year-old councillor, also came up for the post of mayor, but Rajendran was given nod as she heads the state's "Balasangam", the party`s children`s wing and also is the CPI(M) area committee member.

At 21, Arya Rajendran is all set to become India's youngest mayor

<p>Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has lodged a complaint with the State Election Commission against Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for violating the code of conduct amid local body elections and promising voters of free Covid-19 vaccine, said party`s Kerala president K Surendran on Sunday.</p>

<p>This comes a day after Vijayan announced that coronavirus vaccine will be provided free of cost in the state. The announcement comes at a time when local body elections are going on in the state.</p>

<p>"By announcing that free vaccine will be provided, Vijayan has violated the election code of conduct. The Central Government had already announced that the Covid-19 vaccine will be provided free of cost to the entire country. Kerala Chief Minister is trying to take credit of the Centre`s project," Surendran said while addressing a press conference.</p>

<p>BJP`s Kerala unit chief also alleged that the stand taken by Chief Minister in the gold smuggling case is to derail the probe by central investigation agencies.</p>

<p>"Chief Minister had earlier written to the Prime Minister asking him to let the central agencies investigate gold smuggling case. Now, when investigation agencies are making progress and probe is being carried out against those involved in Chief Minister`s office, he is turning against investigation agencies," he said.</p>

<p>BJP state president said that Pinarayi Vijayan is trying to challenge the legal system.</p>

<p>"The stand of the Chief Minister is ridiculous. When the CM is about to be caught in the gold smuggling case, he is trying to intimidate the central agencies. This cannot be allowed," he added.</p>


Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has lodged a complaint with the State Election Commission against Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for violating the code of conduct amid local body elections and promising voters of free Covid-19 vaccine, said party`s Kerala president K Surendran on Sunday.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has lodged a complaint with the State Election Commission against Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for violating the code of conduct amid local body elections and promising voters of free Covid-19 vaccine, said party`s Kerala president K Surendran on Sunday. This comes a day after Vijayan announced that coronavirus vaccine will be provided free of cost in the state. The announcement comes at a time when local body elections are going on in the state. "By announcing that free vaccine will be provided, Vijayan has violated the election code of conduct. The Central Government had already announced that the Covid-19 vaccine will be provided free of cost to the entire country. Kerala Chief Minister is trying to take credit of the Centre`s project," Surendran said while addressing a press conference. BJP`s Kerala unit chief also alleged that the stand taken by Chief Minister in the gold smuggling case is to derail the probe by central investigation agencies. "Chief Minister had earlier written to the Prime Minister asking him to let the central agencies investigate gold smuggling case. Now, when investigation agencies are making progress and probe is being carried out against those involved in Chief Minister`s office, he is turning against investigation agencies," he said. BJP state president said that Pinarayi Vijayan is trying to challenge the legal system. "The stand of the Chief Minister is ridiculous. When the CM is about to be caught in the gold smuggling case, he is trying to intimidate the central agencies. This cannot be allowed," he added.

BJP lodges complaint against Kerala CM for announcing free Covid-19 vaccine amid local polls

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