The Sabarimala gold plating scandal has triggered a high-level judicial probe after the Kerala High Court flagged serious lapses in how sacred temple ornaments were handled and repaired.

The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) sent gold-plated copper idols to a private Chennai firm without prior court approval—violating earlier orders. A loss of 4.54 kg of gold was discovered upon return, with no proper documentation or oversight. The court has now ordered the valuables be returned and a full audit conducted.

Sabrimala Scandal: What All Did Kerala High-Court Flag?

The Kerala High Court on Monday directed a detailed investigation into the long-standing controversy over the gold plating of the Dwarapalaka idol at the famed Sabarimala temple, emphasising the need for thorough scrutiny and transparency.



Sabarimala Theft Row: Kerala Minister Defends Devaswom Board


The Kerala High Court on Monday directed a detailed investigation into the long-standing controversy over the gold plating of the Dwarapalaka idol at the famed Sabarimala temple, emphasising the need for thorough scrutiny and transparency.


Sabarimala Theft Row: Kerala HC Orders Detailed Probe Into Controversy

Sabarimala Theft Row: Kerala HC Orders Detailed Probe Into Missing Sabarimala Gold

The Kerala High Court on Monday directed a detailed investigation into the long-standing controversy over the gold plating of the Dwarapalaka idol at the famed Sabarimala temple, emphasising the need for thorough scrutiny and transparency.

Sabarimala Theft Row: Kerala HC Orders Detailed Probe Into Missing Sabarimala Gold

Monsoon mayhem hits Telangana as rains trigger chaos across ...Torrential rains have caused severe flooding across Telangana, with the Musi River overflowing and threatening low-lying areas in Hyderabad, prompting evacuations to relief camps. Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh is experiencing relentless monsoon rains and strong winds, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing orange and yellow alerts for most of the state.


India: Torrential rains wreak havoc in Telangana while unforgiving monsoon grips Andhra Pradesh

Kerala: Kerala and Telangana are experiencing incessant heavy rains leading to widespread waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and potential flood risks. In Telangana, several districts have seen continuous downpours prompting red and yellow alerts with emergency teams on standby for rescue operations. 


India: Heavy rains lash Kerala, alert sounded in Telangana for next two days 

Kerala: Kerala and Telangana are experiencing incessant heavy rains leading to widespread waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and potential flood risks. In Telangana, several districts have seen continuous downpours prompting red and yellow alerts with emergency teams on standby for rescue operations. 

Kerala: Incessant Rains Lash Kerala and Telangana, Disrupt Daily Life

Kerala is facing a public health crisis as at least seven people have died this month from amoebic meningoencephalitis, a rare brain infection often caused by contaminated water. Victims include children and adults; hospitals in Kozhikode and Malappuram are overwhelmed with patients in critical condition. 


17 Dead, Health Experts Yet To Find The Exact Cause Of Transmission

Kerala has drafted a landmark bill to amend central legislation, making it the first state to legally permit the killing of dangerous wild animals threatening human life and crops. The move has sparked debates on wildlife protection and human safety.


Kerala first state to amend law allowing killing of dangerous wild animals 

India's Kerala Reports 5th Death From Brain Fever, 11 People Undergoing Treatment for Disease | WION

A 56-year-old woman from Malappuram district died Monday due to Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), a rare brain infection, at Kozhikode Medical College Hospital. She was admitted last week and had been in critical condition. This is the fifth death in Kerala due to PAM since August 14, highlighting the severity of the infection in the state. PAM is caused by Naegleria fowleri, a brain-eating amoeba found in warm freshwater, and has a mortality rate of over 95%. The infection typically affects young, active people and can progress rapidly, often proving fatal within days.



India's Kerala Reports 5th Death From Brain Fever, 11 People Undergoing Treatment for Disease

The world observes International Literacy Day every year on September 8, under the leadership of UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization). The aim is to spread awareness about the importance of education in today's life and to tackle the problem of illiteracy. For 2025, the theme of this day is “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era”. It tells us about how important it is to give people the skills they need to thrive in today’s technology-driven world and make sure that everyone should know about this.&nbsp;Even though technology has advanced rapidly, but still there are millions of people that still cannot properly read or write. This is the reason why this day is a strong reminder for everyone of the ongoing global effort to achieve literacy for all.&nbsp;<h2>International Literacy Day 2025 theme</h2>Each year on September 8, UNESCO selects a theme for this day to highlight the current challenges, people facing in their life. This year’s theme, “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era”, focuses on reducing the digital gap and showing how literacy can help communities to learn Tech in the age of artificial intelligence and modern technology.<h2>Which state in India has highest literacy rate (2024)?</h2>According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2023-24, Mizoram is now the most literate state in India with a 98.2% literacy rate, moving ahead of Kerala. Kerala, once the top state, is now fourth with 95.3% literacy. Among Union Territories, Lakshadweep leads with 97.3% literacy. Mizoram’s progress on this list is the result of long-term education campaigns and active participation from local communities.&nbsp;<h3>Top five states/UTs with the highest literacy rates in India (2024)</h3>Here's a look at the top five states or UTs in India with highest literacy rate. Surprisingly, Mizoram surpasses Kerala, to achieve the top position.

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Rank.</td><td>State/UT</td><td>Total Literacy Rate (%)</td></tr><tr><td>1.</td><td>Mizoram</td><td>98.2%</td></tr><tr><td>2.</td><td>Lakshadweep</td><td>97.3%</td></tr><tr><td>3.</td><td>Nagaland</td><td>95.7%</td></tr><tr><td>4.</td><td>Kerala</td><td>95.3%</td></tr><tr><td>5.</td><td>Meghalaya</td><td>94.2%</td></tr><tr><td>6.</td><td>Tripura</td><td>93.7%</td></tr><tr><td>7.</td><td>Chandigarh</td><td>93.7%</td></tr><tr><td>8.</td><td>Goa</td><td>93.6%</td></tr><tr><td>9.</td><td>Puducherry</td><td>92.7%</td></tr><tr><td>10.</td><td>Manipur</td><td>92%</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

The aim of this day is to spread awareness about the importance of education in today's life and to tackle the problem of illiteracy. 

The world observes International Literacy Day every year on September 8, under the leadership of UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization). The aim is to spread awareness about the importance of education in today's life and to tackle the problem of illiteracy. For 2025, the theme of this day is “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era”. It tells us about how important it is to give people the skills they need to thrive in today’s technology-driven world and make sure that everyone should know about this. Even though technology has advanced rapidly, but still there are millions of people that still cannot properly read or write. This is the reason why this day is a strong reminder for everyone of the ongoing global effort to achieve literacy for all. International Literacy Day 2025 theme Each year on September 8, UNESCO selects a theme for this day to highlight the current challenges, people facing in their life. This year’s theme, “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era”, focuses on reducing the digital gap and showing how literacy can help communities to learn Tech in the age of artificial intelligence and modern technology. Which state in India has highest literacy rate (2024)? According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2023-24, Mizoram is now the most literate state in India with a 98.2% literacy rate, moving ahead of Kerala. Kerala, once the top state, is now fourth with 95.3% literacy. Among Union Territories, Lakshadweep leads with 97.3% literacy. Mizoram’s progress on this list is the result of long-term education campaigns and active participation from local communities. Top five states/UTs with the highest literacy rates in India (2024) Here's a look at the top five states or UTs in India with highest literacy rate. Surprisingly, Mizoram surpasses Kerala, to achieve the top position.

The aim of this day is to spread awareness about the importance of education in today's life and to tackle the problem of illiteracy.&nbsp;

International Literacy Day: Which state in India has highest literacy rate? Kerala is fourth, check who tops list

What does tradition taste like? WION goes on the ground in Kerala to experience Onam Sadya — a once-a-year, grand vegetarian feast served on banana leaves. With over 20+ dishes prepared using fresh, seasonal ingredients, Sadya isn’t just a meal, it’s a celebration of community, simplicity, and abundance. From tangy pickles to sweet payasam, explore the diversity of Kerala’s culinary heritage in this special Onam report.

We tried the Onam Sadya feast! | Exploring Kerala’s grandest vegetarian tradition

One person was killed and a few sustained injuries in a massive explosion at a rented residence in Kannur’s Kannapuram early on Saturday morning, the police said.


Kerala bomb blast: Suspicious explosion in Kannur city 

One person was killed and a few sustained injuries in a massive explosion at a rented residence in Kannur’s Kannapuram early on Saturday morning, the police said.



Kerala Bomb Blast: Massive Explosion in a House in Kerala's Kannur Kills 1; House Destroyed

- J&K Landslide: 7 Killed
- Kerala Bomb Blast: Crude Bomb Explosion Kills 1

J&K Landslide: 7 Killed | Kerala Bomb Blast: Crude Bomb Explosion Kills 1

A video by a German influencer has gone viral on social media platforms, sparking debate over public honesty and civic sense. In the video, filmed in Kerala, creator Younes Zarou leaves an iPhone unattended on a public platform around 4:30pm to see if anyone would take it. Two hours later, he returns to find the phone exactly where he left it.&nbsp;While some passersby glanced at the device, no one touched it—prompting Zarou to caption the video on Instagram: “How safe is India??? Location: Kerala.” The post has nearly 38 million views and thousands of comments. Many applauded the display of integrity, but others questioned the authenticity, pointing out that the iPhone was left in full view of cameras and filming equipment.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-federal-takeover-is-washington-dc-is-so-ruined-by-crime-homelessness-that-trump-unleashed-fbi-wants-national-guard-here-are-the-facts-1754891387832">‘Federal takeover’: Is Washington DC so RUINED by crime, homelessness, that Trump unleashed FBI, wants National Guard? Here are the facts</a>&nbsp;“This is parallel India,” one user commented. Another user wrote, “Come to my town, the phone would be gone in 10 seconds.” Others suggested the stunt was designed to appeal to Indian audiences, with one comment reading: “If you keep a big tripod and big cammera in front.. Then nobody will rob your phone.. Also i am 100% sure if someone had taken your phone tgen this video would never come, i know you want to show a clean side of India to gain more Indian audience but at least show some reality."<h2>See the video here:</h2>

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Meanwhile, another user commented, “Try this in Mumbai, you will not need the time lapse.” Across the world, popular influencers have been running such experiments—leaving a valuable item unattended on the roadside for an extended period—to test how safe a city truly is.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-demands-homeless-people-to-move-out-of-washington-dc-immediately-threatens-federal-takeover-again-1754878373803">'There will be no MR NICE GUY': Trump orders homeless people to move out of Washington DC 'IMMEDIATELY,' threatens federal takeover again</a>

How safe is Kerala? German vlogger tests safety by leaving iPhone in public — Here’s what happened next

A video by a German influencer has gone viral on social media platforms, sparking debate over public honesty and civic sense. In the video, filmed in Kerala, creator Younes Zarou leaves an iPhone unattended on a public platform around 4:30pm to see if anyone would take it. Two hours later, he returns to find the phone exactly where he left it. While some passersby glanced at the device, no one touched it—prompting Zarou to caption the video on Instagram: “How safe is India??? Location: Kerala.” The post has nearly 38 million views and thousands of comments. Many applauded the display of integrity, but others questioned the authenticity, pointing out that the iPhone was left in full view of cameras and filming equipment. Also Read: ‘Federal takeover’: Is Washington DC so RUINED by crime, homelessness, that Trump unleashed FBI, wants National Guard? Here are the facts “This is parallel India,” one user commented. Another user wrote, “Come to my town, the phone would be gone in 10 seconds.” Others suggested the stunt was designed to appeal to Indian audiences, with one comment reading: “If you keep a big tripod and big cammera in front.. Then nobody will rob your phone.. Also i am 100% sure if someone had taken your phone tgen this video would never come, i know you want to show a clean side of India to gain more Indian audience but at least show some reality." See the video here:

The viral video has 38 million views and over thousands of comments. The video has also sparked debate amongst social media users

The investigation of murder charges against a 68-year-old man in Kerala has triggered fears of serial killings of women who lived alone or were socially isolated, as, besides the killing of a woman being probed, three others are missing. Sebastian C.M., 68, is being investigated by the Kerala Police for multiple disappearances after charred bone fragments and other things were found at his residence in Kerala’s Alappuzha district. While Sebastian is already accused of murdering a woman named Jainamma, two other missing women’s cases are also being probed.The investigation into Jainamma’s case started after her husband Appachan filed a missing person’s report.The Crime Branch probing Jainamma’s disappearance from Ettumanur in Kottayam arrested Sebastian from Pallipuram. The investigators then recovered charred human remains from the premises of Sebastian’s house at Pallipuram near Cherthala during digging.&nbsp;<h2>20 charred bones, teeth, blood stains found in digging</h2>&nbsp;The disturbing evidence includes around 20 charred human bone fragments, teeth, blood stains, women’s clothing, and a ladies’ bag. All items have been sent for forensic DNA testing.The police suspect Sebastian targeted women who lived alone or were socially isolated.Crime branch units from both Kottayam and Alappuzha are now probing whether Sebastian is also connected to the disappearances of two other women: Bindu Padmanabhan, missing since 2006, and Ayesha, who vanished in 2012.&nbsp;Jainamma and Sebastian were reportedly known to each other for several years. The probe team zeroed in on Sebastian after Jainamma’s mobile phone location at the time of her disappearance was found to be his house. She had left her home to attend a prayer meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Sebastian sold property worth crores of another woman who went missing&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Sebastian is also a suspect in the disappearance of another woman, Bindhu Padmanabhan, 46, from Kadakarappally more than a decade ago. In May 2018, Bindhu’s brother, Praveen Kumar, lodged a missing complaint, saying his sister, who owned assets worth crores of rupees, had gone missing under mysterious circumstances a few years ago. He alleged that some real estate brokers had taken possession of her assets after forging documents.&nbsp;The probe revealed that Sebastian and another person, T. Mini, alias Jaya, had sold assets owned by Bindhu after forging documents. As the investigation progressed, the police arrested Sebastian in connection with document forgery and illegal land deals.&nbsp;The mystery deepened further when a 47-year-old man, who had been called for questioning in the case, was found dead at his home in June 2018.&nbsp;<h2>‘Set up SIT to probe all cases, ensure justice,’ says council</h2>&nbsp;An action council that has been campaigning for justice in Bindu’s case since 2017 is demanding that a special investigation team (SIT) be set up to probe all three cases and has raised concerns about whether Sebastian had any accomplices.The case is drawing comparisons to serial killings and has triggered fear in the region as people brace for grimmer discoveries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Crime Branch probing Jainamma’s disappearance from Ettumanur in Kottayam arrested Sebastian from Pallipuram near Cherthala and recovered charred human remains from the premises of his house at Pallipuram during digging.

The investigation of murder charges against a 68-year-old man in Kerala has triggered fears of serial killings of women who lived alone or were socially isolated, as, besides the killing of a woman being probed, three others are missing. Sebastian C.M., 68, is being investigated by the Kerala Police for multiple disappearances after charred bone fragments and other things were found at his residence in Kerala’s Alappuzha district. While Sebastian is already accused of murdering a woman named Jainamma, two other missing women’s cases are also being probed. The investigation into Jainamma’s case started after her husband Appachan filed a missing person’s report. The Crime Branch probing Jainamma’s disappearance from Ettumanur in Kottayam arrested Sebastian from Pallipuram. The investigators then recovered charred human remains from the premises of Sebastian’s house at Pallipuram near Cherthala during digging. 20 charred bones, teeth, blood stains found in digging The disturbing evidence includes around 20 charred human bone fragments, teeth, blood stains, women’s clothing, and a ladies’ bag. All items have been sent for forensic DNA testing. The police suspect Sebastian targeted women who lived alone or were socially isolated. Crime branch units from both Kottayam and Alappuzha are now probing whether Sebastian is also connected to the disappearances of two other women: Bindu Padmanabhan, missing since 2006, and Ayesha, who vanished in 2012. Jainamma and Sebastian were reportedly known to each other for several years. The probe team zeroed in on Sebastian after Jainamma’s mobile phone location at the time of her disappearance was found to be his house. She had left her home to attend a prayer meeting. Sebastian sold property worth crores of another woman who went missing Sebastian is also a suspect in the disappearance of another woman, Bindhu Padmanabhan, 46, from Kadakarappally more than a decade ago. In May 2018, Bindhu’s brother, Praveen Kumar, lodged a missing complaint, saying his sister, who owned assets worth crores of rupees, had gone missing under mysterious circumstances a few years ago. He alleged that some real estate brokers had taken possession of her assets after forging documents. The probe revealed that Sebastian and another person, T. Mini, alias Jaya, had sold assets owned by Bindhu after forging documents. As the investigation progressed, the police arrested Sebastian in connection with document forgery and illegal land deals. The mystery deepened further when a 47-year-old man, who had been called for questioning in the case, was found dead at his home in June 2018. ‘Set up SIT to probe all cases, ensure justice,’ says council An action council that has been campaigning for justice in Bindu’s case since 2017 is demanding that a special investigation team (SIT) be set up to probe all three cases and has raised concerns about whether Sebastian had any accomplices. The case is drawing comparisons to serial killings and has triggered fear in the region as people brace for grimmer discoveries.

The Crime Branch probing Jainamma’s disappearance from Ettumanur in Kottayam arrested Sebastian from Pallipuram near Cherthala and recovered charred human remains from the premises of his house at Pallipuram during digging.

Charred bones and blood found in Kerala man’s home spark fears of serial killings

The Kerala government on Monday (Jul 21) announced a public holiday on Tuesday (Jul 22) in the state. The decision has been taken as a mark of respect to Communist veteran and former chief minister VS Achuthanandan, who passed away on Monday afternoon. In addition, a three-day state mourning has been declared across Kerala from July 22. The holiday is applicable to banks, government offices, and educational institutes, including state and private schools and colleges, on Tuesday.&nbsp;According to the statement by Kerala government, “As a mark of respect to the departed soul, all State Government offices, educational institutions including professional colleges, State Public Sector Undertakings, Statutory bodies, Autonomous institutions and all institutions under the purview of Negotiable Instruments Act, throughout the State, shall remain closed on Tuesday the 22nd July, 2025.&nbsp;All scheduled examinations in educational institutions across the state have been postponed. The Calicut University Students' Union elections, which were scheduled for July 22, have also been postponed to July 26 in light of the holiday. During the three-day state mourning, the national flag will be flown at half-mast on all government buildings, the General Administration department said in a notification.&nbsp;Former chief minister VS Achuthanandan, who passed away at the age of 101, was an anchor in the Communist movement. He was admitted to a private hospital in Thiruvananthapuram on June 23 after suffering from a cardiac arrest at home and had been undergoing treatment since then.&nbsp;According to the state secretary M V Govindan, Achuthanandan’s cremation will take place on Wednesday (Jul 23) at the Valiyachudukadu funeral ground in his home district of Alappuzha.&nbsp;The late politician played a key role in advocating for the rights of the underprivileged and underrepresented communities in Kerala. However, he later avoided public appearances after suffering a minor stroke in 2019.&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sadness at the passing of the former chief minister. In an X post, he wrote, “Saddened by the passing of former Kerala CM Shri V S Achuthanandan Ji. He devoted many years of his life to public service and Kerala’s progress. I recall our interactions when we both served as Chief Ministers of our respective states. My thoughts are with his family and supporters in this sad hour.”

The late politician played a key role in advocating for the rights of the underprivileged and underrepresented communities in Kerala. 

The Kerala government on Monday (Jul 21) announced a public holiday on Tuesday (Jul 22) in the state. The decision has been taken as a mark of respect to Communist veteran and former chief minister VS Achuthanandan, who passed away on Monday afternoon. In addition, a three-day state mourning has been declared across Kerala from July 22. The holiday is applicable to banks, government offices, and educational institutes, including state and private schools and colleges, on Tuesday. According to the statement by Kerala government, “As a mark of respect to the departed soul, all State Government offices, educational institutions including professional colleges, State Public Sector Undertakings, Statutory bodies, Autonomous institutions and all institutions under the purview of Negotiable Instruments Act, throughout the State, shall remain closed on Tuesday the 22nd July, 2025. All scheduled examinations in educational institutions across the state have been postponed. The Calicut University Students' Union elections, which were scheduled for July 22, have also been postponed to July 26 in light of the holiday. During the three-day state mourning, the national flag will be flown at half-mast on all government buildings, the General Administration department said in a notification. Former chief minister VS Achuthanandan, who passed away at the age of 101, was an anchor in the Communist movement. He was admitted to a private hospital in Thiruvananthapuram on June 23 after suffering from a cardiac arrest at home and had been undergoing treatment since then. According to the state secretary M V Govindan, Achuthanandan’s cremation will take place on Wednesday (Jul 23) at the Valiyachudukadu funeral ground in his home district of Alappuzha. The late politician played a key role in advocating for the rights of the underprivileged and underrepresented communities in Kerala. However, he later avoided public appearances after suffering a minor stroke in 2019. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sadness at the passing of the former chief minister. In an X post, he wrote, “Saddened by the passing of former Kerala CM Shri V S Achuthanandan Ji. He devoted many years of his life to public service and Kerala’s progress. I recall our interactions when we both served as Chief Ministers of our respective states. My thoughts are with his family and supporters in this sad hour.”

The late politician played a key role in advocating for the rights of the underprivileged and underrepresented communities in Kerala.&nbsp;

Kerala govt declares holiday on July 22, three days of mourning after death of former CM VS Achuthanandan

In India's Kerala, health authorities have intensified ward-level surveillance and launched a high-alert contact-tracing operation after the state reported its second Nipah virus death in two weeks, officials confirmed on Monday. The latest death, of a 57-year-old man from Kumaramputhur near Mannarkkad in Palakkad district, happened on July 12. The patient, as per reports, succumbed to the deadly virus at a private hospital in Perinthalmanna. His test results returned Nipah positive late Sunday night, prompting a rapid rollout of containment protocols, including CCTV-assisted contact tracing and a "route map" to track potential exposures.&nbsp;<h2>Over 600 people exposed to Nipah, fresh containment zone declared</h2>As per reports, so far, four Nipah cases have been reported in the state this year, including two deaths, one recovery, and one patient under treatment. According to Kerala Health Minister Veena George, authorities have identified 609 individuals who came into contact with confirmed cases. Fever surveillance in the region has been ramped up, especially in affected wards and clinics.&nbsp;The 57-year-old's death is being treated as a "fresh case", as he had "no contact" with previously confirmed Nipah cases, said a district health official, as reported by ANI. "His death is being treated as a fresh case because he had no contact with the earlier Nipah cases reported in the last two months. The 57-year-old began experiencing symptoms, especially fever, on July 6 and we have found that he visited at least three clinics and tertiary hospitals before seeking treatment at the private hospital where he eventually died. We have published a route map of all the places he had visited with the timeline and we are getting a lot of calls in the control room".&nbsp;The unidentified patient reportedly began showing symptoms on July 6 and visited multiple clinics and tertiary hospitals before his condition deteriorated. So far, 112 people who had primary or secondary contact with the patient have been identified. These people are now being put under quarantine, the patient's home ward has been declared a containment zone. "With the help of CCTV cameras in places he visited and the outpatient registers of the hospitals he went to, we have compiled a list. Those persons are being put under quarantine. The municipal ward where the deceased’s home is located has been declared a containment zone. Fever surveillance has begun in the area," said the official. Kerala's Malappuram district, where the first Nipah death this month occurred—an 18-year-old woman—is also under high alert.&nbsp;<h2>Is jackfruit the cause?</h2>Officials suspect the man may have contracted the virus after eating a jackfruit from his plantation in Agali, possibly contaminated by fruit bat secretions, a known transmission route. "There are reports that he ate a piece of jackfruit that had fallen on the ground while visiting his plantation in Agali on June 30. The jackfruit might have been bitten by bats. There is no concrete evidence yet."&nbsp;As per District Medical Officer R Renuka, hospitals were conducting routine screening for Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) cases to catch potential infections early. "We have been looking out for AES and ARDS cases for quite some time. Instructions have been given to all hospitals to look at the viral panel in these cases. Apart from Nipah, it could be influenza or H1N1 cases as well. Since this period is particularly a breeding season of the bats, we have been taking more care," she said.&nbsp;

The patient succumbed to the deadly virus at a private hospital in Perinthalmanna. His test results returned Nipah positive late Sunday night, prompting a rapid rollout of containment protocols, including CCTV-assisted contact tracing and a "route map" to track potential exposures.

In India's Kerala, health authorities have intensified ward-level surveillance and launched a high-alert contact-tracing operation after the state reported its second Nipah virus death in two weeks, officials confirmed on Monday. The latest death, of a 57-year-old man from Kumaramputhur near Mannarkkad in Palakkad district, happened on July 12. The patient, as per reports, succumbed to the deadly virus at a private hospital in Perinthalmanna. His test results returned Nipah positive late Sunday night, prompting a rapid rollout of containment protocols, including CCTV-assisted contact tracing and a "route map" to track potential exposures. Over 600 people exposed to Nipah, fresh containment zone declared As per reports, so far, four Nipah cases have been reported in the state this year, including two deaths, one recovery, and one patient under treatment. According to Kerala Health Minister Veena George, authorities have identified 609 individuals who came into contact with confirmed cases. Fever surveillance in the region has been ramped up, especially in affected wards and clinics. The 57-year-old's death is being treated as a "fresh case", as he had "no contact" with previously confirmed Nipah cases, said a district health official, as reported by ANI. "His death is being treated as a fresh case because he had no contact with the earlier Nipah cases reported in the last two months. The 57-year-old began experiencing symptoms, especially fever, on July 6 and we have found that he visited at least three clinics and tertiary hospitals before seeking treatment at the private hospital where he eventually died. We have published a route map of all the places he had visited with the timeline and we are getting a lot of calls in the control room". The unidentified patient reportedly began showing symptoms on July 6 and visited multiple clinics and tertiary hospitals before his condition deteriorated. So far, 112 people who had primary or secondary contact with the patient have been identified. These people are now being put under quarantine, the patient's home ward has been declared a containment zone. "With the help of CCTV cameras in places he visited and the outpatient registers of the hospitals he went to, we have compiled a list. Those persons are being put under quarantine. The municipal ward where the deceased’s home is located has been declared a containment zone. Fever surveillance has begun in the area," said the official. Kerala's Malappuram district, where the first Nipah death this month occurred—an 18-year-old woman—is also under high alert. Is jackfruit the cause? Officials suspect the man may have contracted the virus after eating a jackfruit from his plantation in Agali, possibly contaminated by fruit bat secretions, a known transmission route. "There are reports that he ate a piece of jackfruit that had fallen on the ground while visiting his plantation in Agali on June 30. The jackfruit might have been bitten by bats. There is no concrete evidence yet." As per District Medical Officer R Renuka, hospitals were conducting routine screening for Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) cases to catch potential infections early. "We have been looking out for AES and ARDS cases for quite some time. Instructions have been given to all hospitals to look at the viral panel in these cases. Apart from Nipah, it could be influenza or H1N1 cases as well. Since this period is particularly a breeding season of the bats, we have been taking more care," she said.

The patient succumbed to the deadly virus at a private hospital in Perinthalmanna. His test results returned Nipah positive late Sunday night, prompting a rapid rollout of containment protocols, including CCTV-assisted contact tracing and a "route map" to track potential exposures.

Nipah death in Kerala triggers aggressive surveillance; over 112 people had contact with patient

The nationwide General strike against the Government and its “anti-labour, anti-farmer and anti-people” policies by a total of 10 central trade unions and independent sectoral federations will be joined by more than 25 crore workers engaged in various sectors, including white collar employees in banking and insurance sectors employees in offices and shops, transport and hospitality sector workers, gig workers, public and private sector industry units and farmers.&nbsp;<h2>Which states are likely to be hit most by the Bharat bandh?</h2>Kerala: Kerala has seen a near shutdown. KRSTC buses are on the roads, and limited taxi and autorickshaw services are available. Schools and colleges are also likely to be affected due to high participation from teacher and employee organisations. While the Urban centres have seen limited disruptions, no major incidents of violence have been reported.Telangana: Telangana Rashtra Samithi, the ruling party, has stood in support of the protest, with Telangana becoming the worst-hit state in the protest. CM’s son K.T. Rama Rao will participate in the protest in Hyderabad.West Bengal: Roads are empty, shops are shut, and buses are running under heavy police deployment. West Bengal CM has extended her support to the bandh. She will sit near the Gandhi statue in central Kolkata in symbolic support.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | West Bengal | Verbal spat erupts between workers of the left parties&#39; unions, and the Kolkata Police amid the &#39;Bharat Bandh&#39; rally. Ten central trade unions have called for a &#39;Bharat Bandh&#39;, alleging that the central government is pushing economic reforms that weaken… <a href="https://t.co/QkbV0QmyNc">pic.twitter.com/QkbV0QmyNc</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1942822779772191221?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Punjab and Haryana: The epicentre of farmer movements, Punjab and Haryana saw markets closed in Amritsar, Moga, Sangrur, Mohali, Panipat and Ambala. Farmers are planning to reach the Tikri border with the Delhi government on high alert.&nbsp;Mumbai: Banks and postal services are likely to be affected. Trains, schools and private offices to run normally. All major agriculture and fruit markets remain shut, along with goods transporters. However BJP bastion of &nbsp;Nagpur remains functional.&nbsp;Assam: Even though it is a BJP-ruled state, Assam has witnessed a near-total shutdown, with transport services, shops and establishments to remain shut, and security presence has been tightened.Karnataka: Nearly 300 farmer organisations have joined in the Bharat Bandh protest in Karnataka. Farmer organisations will protest in their villages and towns due to logistical constraints. People around Bengaluru were called to join the protest near Vidhan Soudha, where the controversial APMC and land reform bill is in session.&nbsp;Nationwide, approximately 25 crore workers are protesting against the proposed labour code to be implemented on April 1. Almost 27 lakh electricity workers will join the Bharat Bandh protest against rampant privatisation by the government.

More than 25 crore workers from 10 central trade unions are joining in for the Bharat Bandh today, with Telangana, Kerala and West Bengal being the worst hit states.

The nationwide General strike against the Government and its “anti-labour, anti-farmer and anti-people” policies by a total of 10 central trade unions and independent sectoral federations will be joined by more than 25 crore workers engaged in various sectors, including white collar employees in banking and insurance sectors employees in offices and shops, transport and hospitality sector workers, gig workers, public and private sector industry units and farmers. Which states are likely to be hit most by the Bharat bandh? Kerala: Kerala has seen a near shutdown. KRSTC buses are on the roads, and limited taxi and autorickshaw services are available. Schools and colleges are also likely to be affected due to high participation from teacher and employee organisations. While the Urban centres have seen limited disruptions, no major incidents of violence have been reported. Telangana: Telangana Rashtra Samithi, the ruling party, has stood in support of the protest, with Telangana becoming the worst-hit state in the protest. CM’s son K.T. Rama Rao will participate in the protest in Hyderabad. West Bengal: Roads are empty, shops are shut, and buses are running under heavy police deployment. West Bengal CM has extended her support to the bandh. She will sit near the Gandhi statue in central Kolkata in symbolic support.

More than 25 crore workers from 10 central trade unions are joining in for the Bharat Bandh today, with Telangana, Kerala and West Bengal being the worst hit states.

Bharat bandh today: Which states are hit the most?

A man from India's Kerala, who worked as a caregiver in Israel, was found dead at the house where he was employed, on Friday. The man identified as Jinesh P Sukumaran was a native of Wayanad, Kerala, and was found at Mevasseret Zion in Jerusalem.Mevasseret Zion is a small town outside Jerusalem. Sukumaran was found dead in the apartment "following an attack by unidentified individuals."Sukumaran, 38, flew to Israel, on a caregiver visa only two months ago to look after the bedridden husband of an elderly woman.&nbsp;An 80-year-old woman was also found dead at the airport, along with the Keralite.Local panchayat member Suja James said they had received communication regarding Sukumaran’s death from Israel. “A few people from Wayanad working as caregivers have shared the tragic news," she said.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-close-to-finalising-ceasefire-in-gaza-trump-says-decision-on-peace-proposal-by-hamas-likely-in-24-hrs-1751627196633">Also read: Israel-Hamas close to finalising ceasefire in Gaza? Trump says decision on peace proposal by Hamas likely in 24 hrs</a>&nbsp;"We were told that the husband of the deceased woman also gave a statement to the local police pointing to an attack from outside. The reasons are not known to us. We don’t know further details at present," she added.According to the Israeli media Haaretz, the death of the elderly woman and Keralite caregiver was suspected to be a murder-suicide. However, the authorities have not released any information on the motive or identity of the attackers.This is a developing story.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-achieved-all-objectives-israel-issues-first-statement-on-ceasefire-with-iran-warns-against-violation-1750746268050">Also read: ‘Achieved all objectives’: Israel issues first statement on ceasefire with Iran, warns against violation</a>

Sukumaran, 38, flew to Israel, on a caregiver visa only two months ago to look after the bedridden husband of an elderly woman.

A man from India's Kerala, who worked as a caregiver in Israel, was found dead at the house where he was employed, on Friday. The man identified as Jinesh P Sukumaran was a native of Wayanad, Kerala, and was found at Mevasseret Zion in Jerusalem. Mevasseret Zion is a small town outside Jerusalem. Sukumaran was found dead in the apartment "following an attack by unidentified individuals." Sukumaran, 38, flew to Israel, on a caregiver visa only two months ago to look after the bedridden husband of an elderly woman. An 80-year-old woman was also found dead at the airport, along with the Keralite. Local panchayat member Suja James said they had received communication regarding Sukumaran’s death from Israel. “A few people from Wayanad working as caregivers have shared the tragic news," she said. Also read: Israel-Hamas close to finalising ceasefire in Gaza? Trump says decision on peace proposal by Hamas likely in 24 hrs "We were told that the husband of the deceased woman also gave a statement to the local police pointing to an attack from outside. The reasons are not known to us. We don’t know further details at present," she added. According to the Israeli media Haaretz, the death of the elderly woman and Keralite caregiver was suspected to be a murder-suicide. However, the authorities have not released any information on the motive or identity of the attackers. This is a developing story. Also read: ‘Achieved all objectives’: Israel issues first statement on ceasefire with Iran, warns against violation

Sukumaran, 38, flew to Israel, on a caregiver visa only two months ago to look after the bedridden husband of an elderly woman.

Man from India's Kerala found dead at Israel apartment; was working as caregiver

Three districts in India’s southern state of Kerala are on high alert after two people were found with suspected symptoms of the deadly Nipah virus, reviving fears of an outbreak that the state has battled in the past. The Kerala state health authorities sounded an alert in Kozhikode, Malappuram, and Palakkad after routine surveillance flagged the Nipah infection during testing at government medical colleges in Kozhikode and Malappuram. Samples from the patients have been sent to the National Institute of Virology in Pune for confirmation, Kerala health officials said on Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Nipah protocols activated, special teams deployed</h2>&nbsp;Kerala’s health minister, Veena George, convened an emergency meeting to assess the situation and said that Nipah protocols have been activated in the affected districts.&nbsp;“We have already strengthened preventive measures in line with Nipah protocol,” said George, adding, “Twenty-six special teams have been formed in each district to carry out contact tracing, monitor symptoms, and inform the public.”&nbsp;Police assistance has been sought to help identify individuals who may have come into contact with the suspected patients, while containment zones are being prepared under the supervision of district collectors.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Stay vigilant,’ public cautioned</h2>&nbsp;Officials are also scanning local records for any unnatural or unexplained deaths in the recent weeks. Helplines are being set up for the public, and awareness campaigns are being rolled out in the three districts.&nbsp;&nbsp;Officials are using loudspeaker announcements and media outreach to inform people about symptoms and preventive steps. A high-level review meeting is scheduled for Friday evening to monitor the evolving situation.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Past Nipah outbreaks in Kerala</h2>&nbsp;Kerala has witnessed many outbreaks of the Nipah virus in the recent years, most notably in 2018 and 2021, both of which led to fatalities and large-scale containment efforts. The virus, which can spread from animals to humans and also between people, has a high fatality rate and no known cure.&nbsp;Earlier in May, a Nipah virus case was confirmed in Malappuram after a 42-year-old woman from the Valanchery municipality area tested positive. Later, the health minister declared the sole Nipah virus patient infection-free, after the patient tested negative in two consecutive samples.&nbsp;<h2>What is Nipah virus? How does it spread?&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;The WHO identifies Nipah virus (NiV) as a zoonotic virus (it is transmitted from animals to humans). Nipah virus can be transmitted to humans from bats or pigs, or contaminated foods and can also be transmitted directly from human-to-human.&nbsp;<h2>What are the symptoms?</h2>&nbsp;Nipah virus (NiV) infection can cause a range of symptoms, from mild to severe, including fever, headache, muscle pain, and respiratory issues like cough and sore throat. In severe cases, it can progress to encephalitis, causing drowsiness, disorientation, and mental confusion, potentially leading to coma and death.&nbsp;The infection progresses rapidly and can lead to coma within 24-48 hours.&nbsp;<h2>Mortality rate and long-term effects</h2>&nbsp;The mortality rate of Nipah infection varies between 40% and 75%, depending on the virus strain. Some survivors may experience long-term side effects like persistent convulsions and personality changes.&nbsp;Fruit bats of the Pteropodidae family are the natural host of Nipah virus.There is no treatment or vaccine available for either people or animals. The primary treatment for humans is supportive care.

Police assistance has been sought to help identify individuals who may have come into contact with the suspected patients, while containment zones are being prepared under the supervision of district collectors. 

Three districts in India’s southern state of Kerala are on high alert after two people were found with suspected symptoms of the deadly Nipah virus, reviving fears of an outbreak that the state has battled in the past. The Kerala state health authorities sounded an alert in Kozhikode, Malappuram, and Palakkad after routine surveillance flagged the Nipah infection during testing at government medical colleges in Kozhikode and Malappuram. Samples from the patients have been sent to the National Institute of Virology in Pune for confirmation, Kerala health officials said on Friday. Nipah protocols activated, special teams deployed Kerala’s health minister, Veena George, convened an emergency meeting to assess the situation and said that Nipah protocols have been activated in the affected districts. “We have already strengthened preventive measures in line with Nipah protocol,” said George, adding, “Twenty-six special teams have been formed in each district to carry out contact tracing, monitor symptoms, and inform the public.” Police assistance has been sought to help identify individuals who may have come into contact with the suspected patients, while containment zones are being prepared under the supervision of district collectors. ‘Stay vigilant,’ public cautioned Officials are also scanning local records for any unnatural or unexplained deaths in the recent weeks. Helplines are being set up for the public, and awareness campaigns are being rolled out in the three districts. Officials are using loudspeaker announcements and media outreach to inform people about symptoms and preventive steps. A high-level review meeting is scheduled for Friday evening to monitor the evolving situation. Past Nipah outbreaks in Kerala Kerala has witnessed many outbreaks of the Nipah virus in the recent years, most notably in 2018 and 2021, both of which led to fatalities and large-scale containment efforts. The virus, which can spread from animals to humans and also between people, has a high fatality rate and no known cure. Earlier in May, a Nipah virus case was confirmed in Malappuram after a 42-year-old woman from the Valanchery municipality area tested positive. Later, the health minister declared the sole Nipah virus patient infection-free, after the patient tested negative in two consecutive samples. What is Nipah virus? How does it spread? The WHO identifies Nipah virus (NiV) as a zoonotic virus (it is transmitted from animals to humans). Nipah virus can be transmitted to humans from bats or pigs, or contaminated foods and can also be transmitted directly from human-to-human. What are the symptoms? Nipah virus (NiV) infection can cause a range of symptoms, from mild to severe, including fever, headache, muscle pain, and respiratory issues like cough and sore throat. In severe cases, it can progress to encephalitis, causing drowsiness, disorientation, and mental confusion, potentially leading to coma and death. The infection progresses rapidly and can lead to coma within 24-48 hours. Mortality rate and long-term effects The mortality rate of Nipah infection varies between 40% and 75%, depending on the virus strain. Some survivors may experience long-term side effects like persistent convulsions and personality changes. Fruit bats of the Pteropodidae family are the natural host of Nipah virus. There is no treatment or vaccine available for either people or animals. The primary treatment for humans is supportive care.

Police assistance has been sought to help identify individuals who may have come into contact with the suspected patients, while containment zones are being prepared under the supervision of district collectors.&nbsp;

High alert in 3 Kerala districts after two suspected Nipah cases trigger alarm

The British F-35B aircraft, which has been stranded at the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport for over two weeks due to technical issues, cannot be repaired and will be transported to the UK after being dismantled, CNN-News18 reported, citing top government sources. The report added that the British Navy will now bring a bigger plane to move the aircraft. They would also pay all dues to India, including parking and hangar costs.&nbsp;The fighter jet experienced a snag in its hydraulic system, which later progressed to the starting system, the source told the news outlet. It is unclear which parts would be dismantled, but a rectification team from the UK was being sent.&nbsp;The F-35B aircraft made an emergency landing at Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram International Airport as it was unable to return to the UK Aircraft Carrier HMS Prince of Wales due to adverse weather conditions. It was planned to take off after refuelling. However, it developed an engineering issue on the ground and has been stationed at Bay No. 4 of the airport since then.&nbsp;After assessing the situation, the engineers from HMS Prince of Wales determined that additional assistance was required from a UK-based engineering team.&nbsp;An official told ANI, “UK F-35B aircraft is awaiting repairs at the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport after developing an engineering issue. The UK has accepted an offer to move the aircraft to the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul facility at the airport.”&nbsp;“The aircraft will be moved to the hangar once UK engineering teams arrive with specialist equipment, thereby ensuring there is minimal disruption to scheduled maintenance of other aircraft,” he said.&nbsp;The British High Commission earlier said in a statement that ground teams were closely working with Indian authorities to ensure that safety and security precautions are maintained as the repairs and safety checks were being planned. The British authorities have also expressed gratitude to India after the aircraft’s emergency landing.

The report added that the British Navy will now bring a bigger plane to move the aircraft. They would also pay all dues to India, including parking and hangar costs.

The British F-35B aircraft, which has been stranded at the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport for over two weeks due to technical issues, cannot be repaired and will be transported to the UK after being dismantled, CNN-News18 reported, citing top government sources. The report added that the British Navy will now bring a bigger plane to move the aircraft. They would also pay all dues to India, including parking and hangar costs. The fighter jet experienced a snag in its hydraulic system, which later progressed to the starting system, the source told the news outlet. It is unclear which parts would be dismantled, but a rectification team from the UK was being sent. The F-35B aircraft made an emergency landing at Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram International Airport as it was unable to return to the UK Aircraft Carrier HMS Prince of Wales due to adverse weather conditions. It was planned to take off after refuelling. However, it developed an engineering issue on the ground and has been stationed at Bay No. 4 of the airport since then. After assessing the situation, the engineers from HMS Prince of Wales determined that additional assistance was required from a UK-based engineering team. An official told ANI, “UK F-35B aircraft is awaiting repairs at the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport after developing an engineering issue. The UK has accepted an offer to move the aircraft to the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul facility at the airport.” “The aircraft will be moved to the hangar once UK engineering teams arrive with specialist equipment, thereby ensuring there is minimal disruption to scheduled maintenance of other aircraft,” he said. The British High Commission earlier said in a statement that ground teams were closely working with Indian authorities to ensure that safety and security precautions are maintained as the repairs and safety checks were being planned. The British authorities have also expressed gratitude to India after the aircraft’s emergency landing.

The report added that the British Navy will now bring a bigger plane to move the aircraft. They would also pay all dues to India, including parking and hangar costs.

UK's stranded F-35 in India to be dismantled, will be flown back for repair: Report

One of the world's most expensive and advanced combat aircraft, the British Royal Navy F-35B fighter jet has been stranded in India's Kerala Thiruvananthapuram International Airport for four days after making an emergency landing.According to reports, the jet suffered a "technical snag", due to which it was grounded. The jet, which is believed to have taken off from an aircraft carrier, landed safely at around 9.30 pm. Airport authorities declared an emergency to ensure a smooth and safe landing, said a source.The fighter jet is worth over $100 million and was part of the UK's HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group.The short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) jet is currently operating in the Indo-Pacific following a series of joint exercises with the Indian Navy.<h2>Jet grounded at Kerala Airport</h2>The jet took from the HMS Prince of Wales which is the UK's flagship aircraft carrier and is currently grounded approximately 100 nautical miles off the Kerala coast.The technicians were airlifted by a Royal Navy helicopter to begin repairs the same night, but according to sources, the aircraft remains grounded due to technical issues.The Indian Air Force (IAF) is handling the issue, however an official update on the F35 jet is still awaited, as per the Indian Defence PRO and Thiruvananthapuram airport officials.“The IAF is fully aware and facilitated the aircraft for flight safety reasons. All assistance is being given, and the IAF is in coordination with all agencies,” said an IAF spokesperson.Earlier, the F-35 was expected to depart by Tuesday morning, however, it got delayed again.The Royal Navy personnel, including the pilot and two technicians, are still in Kerala to finish the repair. Meanwhile, six other technicians returned to HMS Prince of Wales by helicopter on Tuesday afternoon.For safety, an armed detachment of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) is guarding the jet, which is parked in Bay 4 of the airport.

The short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) jet is currently operating in the Indo-Pacific following a series of joint exercises with the Indian Navy.

One of the world's most expensive and advanced combat aircraft, the British Royal Navy F-35B fighter jet has been stranded in India's Kerala Thiruvananthapuram International Airport for four days after making an emergency landing. According to reports, the jet suffered a "technical snag", due to which it was grounded. The jet, which is believed to have taken off from an aircraft carrier, landed safely at around 9.30 pm. Airport authorities declared an emergency to ensure a smooth and safe landing, said a source. The fighter jet is worth over $100 million and was part of the UK's HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group. The short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) jet is currently operating in the Indo-Pacific following a series of joint exercises with the Indian Navy. Jet grounded at Kerala Airport The jet took from the HMS Prince of Wales which is the UK's flagship aircraft carrier and is currently grounded approximately 100 nautical miles off the Kerala coast. The technicians were airlifted by a Royal Navy helicopter to begin repairs the same night, but according to sources, the aircraft remains grounded due to technical issues. The Indian Air Force (IAF) is handling the issue, however an official update on the F35 jet is still awaited, as per the Indian Defence PRO and Thiruvananthapuram airport officials. “The IAF is fully aware and facilitated the aircraft for flight safety reasons. All assistance is being given, and the IAF is in coordination with all agencies,” said an IAF spokesperson. Earlier, the F-35 was expected to depart by Tuesday morning, however, it got delayed again. The Royal Navy personnel, including the pilot and two technicians, are still in Kerala to finish the repair. Meanwhile, six other technicians returned to HMS Prince of Wales by helicopter on Tuesday afternoon. For safety, an armed detachment of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) is guarding the jet, which is parked in Bay 4 of the airport.

The short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) jet is currently operating in the Indo-Pacific following a series of joint exercises with the Indian Navy.

Why world's most expensive fighter jet F-35B is GROUNDED in India? Know its price

A British F-35 fighter jet made an emergency landing at Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) on Saturday after running low on fuel, the airport officials said.&nbsp;&nbsp;The jet took off from an aircraft carrier stationed approximately 100 nautical miles off the coast. Later. as it landed at 9:28 safely at the Kerala airport, its refuelling was completed.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, there’s something else that can also be done if a jet runs out of fuel mid-air. This F-35 made an emergency landing, but a viral video shows the jet can get refuelled mid-air.&nbsp;&nbsp;Last year, a video went viral showing the process of refuelling a jet. The stunning showcasing of how this process is done sparked curiosity among netizens.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">This is how jets refuel in midair.<a href="https://t.co/yJR11vfsR5">pic.twitter.com/yJR11vfsR5</a>&mdash; Wonder of Science (@wonderofscience) <a href="https://twitter.com/wonderofscience/status/1836761913910333498?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In the video, a jet plane is seen flying high in the sky, showing a spectacular process of how the refuelling is being done. As shown, a pipe comes out from the plane with a suction valve. After it gets closer to another aircraft, the two planes connect with another pipe, making it easy to share fuel while in the air.&nbsp;&nbsp;The video was captioned, “This is how jets refuel in midair.”&nbsp;&nbsp;This happened first time in 2021 when the US Navy refuelled a F/A-18 Super Hornet using the unnamed drone MQ-25 T1.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/british-fighter-jet-makes-emergency-landing-in-thiruvananthapuram-1749968258108">Also read: British fighter jet makes emergency landing in Thiruvananthapuram</a>&nbsp;This marks a huge step up in aerial refuelling technology as we witness the advancement in technology.&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier today, as the jet sought permission from the airport authorities for an emergency landing, the authorities declared an emergency to ensure a safe landing for the jet.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The jet is currently at the airport and the re-fuelling has been completed. It will be allowed to depart after requisite permission from the Indian authorities,” the official said.

This happened first time in 2021 when the US Navy refuelled a F/A-18 Super Hornet using the unnamed drone MQ-25 T1. 

A British F-35 fighter jet made an emergency landing at Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) on Saturday after running low on fuel, the airport officials said. The jet took off from an aircraft carrier stationed approximately 100 nautical miles off the coast. Later. as it landed at 9:28 safely at the Kerala airport, its refuelling was completed. However, there’s something else that can also be done if a jet runs out of fuel mid-air. This F-35 made an emergency landing, but a viral video shows the jet can get refuelled mid-air. Last year, a video went viral showing the process of refuelling a jet. The stunning showcasing of how this process is done sparked curiosity among netizens.

This happened first time in 2021 when the US Navy refuelled a F/A-18 Super Hornet using the unnamed drone MQ-25 T1.

What happens if a jet runs out of fuel mid-air? Know as British F-35 makes emergency landing in Kerala -WATCH

India’s southern state, Kerala, is set to welcome the defending world champions, Argentina, late this year for a friendly football game, with global superstar and record eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi also visiting the country. In massive news for all football enthusiasts, Messi will come to India for the one-off match, confirms the state’s Sports Minister V Abdurahiman.&nbsp;As reported by several publications, Messi’s Argentina will arrive sometime around October or November later this year, receiving the state guest status. The Kerala government will manage their security, accommodation and other necessary arrangements. Meanwhile, Abdurahiman’s statement came after reports of Argentina cancelling their Kerala visit due to alleged contract breaches by sponsors began surfacing.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-portuguese-great-cristiano-ronaldo-drops-bombshell-on-his-fifa-club-world-cup-availability-transfer-rumour-1749299920806">Portuguese great Cristiano Ronaldo drops bombshell on his Club World Cup availability</a> &nbsp;Both the sports minister and the Reporter Broadcasting Company dismissed such reports, maintaining their earlier stance that world champions will indeed be visiting India for a one-off friendly game. Abdurahiman, however, confirmed the developments via a social media post on Facebook, writing, ‘Messi will come.’ &nbsp;Addressing the media on Saturday (June 7), Kerala’s sports minister revealed that all sponsor-related payments are clear and there are no hindrances.&nbsp; &nbsp;"The sponsor has completed the payment. No other hindrances exist. FIFA's window for world teams to participate in such events falls in October-November. We expect to be allocated the same timeframe," he said.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, as per an agreement between the sponsor and the Argentina Football Association (AFA), the team will arrive in the country upon receiving the match fee, with the date and further details to be announced via a joint statement.&nbsp; &nbsp;Speaking more on this, Abdurahiman confirmed that the sponsors had informed the government of the fee payment, now only awaiting confirmation from Argentina’s team management. &nbsp;"The sponsors have confirmed settling the pre-match contract amount. The government isn't involved in any financial transactions. The contract exists between the sponsor and team management," he clarified.&nbsp; &nbsp;Moreover, the Greenfield Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, the only one that meets international standards, will stage the friendly match.

Lionel Messi to India, HERE WE GO! Kerala Sports Minister confirms Argentina match back on track

India’s southern state, Kerala, is set to welcome the defending world champions, Argentina, late this year for a friendly football game, with global superstar and record eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi also visiting the country. In massive news for all football enthusiasts, Messi will come to India for the one-off match, confirms the state’s Sports Minister V Abdurahiman. As reported by several publications, Messi’s Argentina will arrive sometime around October or November later this year, receiving the state guest status. The Kerala government will manage their security, accommodation and other necessary arrangements. Meanwhile, Abdurahiman’s statement came after reports of Argentina cancelling their Kerala visit due to alleged contract breaches by sponsors began surfacing. Also read | Portuguese great Cristiano Ronaldo drops bombshell on his Club World Cup availability Both the sports minister and the Reporter Broadcasting Company dismissed such reports, maintaining their earlier stance that world champions will indeed be visiting India for a one-off friendly game. Abdurahiman, however, confirmed the developments via a social media post on Facebook, writing, ‘Messi will come.’ Addressing the media on Saturday (June 7), Kerala’s sports minister revealed that all sponsor-related payments are clear and there are no hindrances. "The sponsor has completed the payment. No other hindrances exist. FIFA's window for world teams to participate in such events falls in October-November. We expect to be allocated the same timeframe," he said. Meanwhile, as per an agreement between the sponsor and the Argentina Football Association (AFA), the team will arrive in the country upon receiving the match fee, with the date and further details to be announced via a joint statement. Speaking more on this, Abdurahiman confirmed that the sponsors had informed the government of the fee payment, now only awaiting confirmation from Argentina’s team management. "The sponsors have confirmed settling the pre-match contract amount. The government isn't involved in any financial transactions. The contract exists between the sponsor and team management," he clarified. Moreover, the Greenfield Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, the only one that meets international standards, will stage the friendly match.

In massive news for all football enthusiasts in the country, Messi will come to India for the one-off match, confirms the state’s Sports Minister V Abdurahiman.

Debris from the MSC ELSA3 cargo ship that sank off the Kerala coast on May 25 has now reached the coasts of adjoining Tamil Nadu state, raising environmental concerns. The Liberian-flagged cargo vessel with hazardous cargo, more than 640 containers, and over 400 metric tonnes of fuel had sunk about 30 km off Alappuzha, Kerala, following which plastic pellets and shipping containers began washing along the Kerala coast.&nbsp;The Tamil Nadu-headquartered Indian Coast Guard Region East personnel have been keeping a close watch on the situation and coordinating response to tackle the debris, including plastic pellets that have washed ashore along Tamil Nadu coasts at Colachel and Kanyakumari. Besides, a 40-foot shipping container has also washed ashore at the Kodimunai beach.Indian Coast Guard teams have been deputed to these locations for assisting the district administration in the ongoing cleanup operations.&nbsp;On Friday, 30th&nbsp;May, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin held a meeting regarding the safe disposal of the plastic particles and other debris floating along the southern coastal regions of Tamil Nadu. The meeting touched upon the possible impact of the debris on fisheries, and the measures to be taken to protect the environment.&nbsp;Further, the fisheries department has advised that fishing and related activities be avoided in this region, and to check whether marine life has been affected and plastic particles are found in fish.While the Tamil Nadu government said that no hazardous materials have washed up on the state’s coast, it has advised the public and fisherfolk to immediately report any plastic particles, containers, or suspicious items found along the coast.&nbsp;<h2>Kerala declared MSC ELSA 3 shipwreck a state disaster</h2>&nbsp;On 29th May, four days after cargo ship MSC ELSA3 sank off its coast, the government in the southern Indian state of Kerala declared it a state disaster. Through the week, shipping containers and plastic pellets washed ashore along Kerala’s scenic beaches.&nbsp;The maritime incident has raised serious environmental concerns, including the potential for oil spill and drifting of debris, including cargo, along the coastline, said the Kerala government.&nbsp;“Considering the potentially serious environmental, social, and economic impact of the ship wreckage, the Government hereby declares the wreckage of ship M/s ELSA 3 in the Arabian sea 14.6 nautical miles off the Kerala coast as a State-Specific disaster,” read a statement from Kerala’s Disaster Management Department.&nbsp;The declaration of state disaster indicates the severity of the incident, as Kerala is a popular hub for tourists, is rich in marine life and biodiversity, offers wide range of seafood, and has the highest seafood-consuming population in India. This disaster has also occurred at a time when the Southwest monsoon is active in the region, causing rough seas, harsh winds, and heavy rainfall, which can potentially carry the debris far and wide.&nbsp;<h2>Here’s how Indian Coast Guard responded to the environmental disaster</h2>&nbsp;Since the morning hours of Sunday, 25th May, when the Liberian-flagged cargo vessel MSC ELSA3 sank off the Kerala coast, Indian Coast Guard (ICG) assets have been combating the resultant oil spill and marine pollution. Oil spills are major maritime disasters that have the potential to cause serious damage to the economy and biodiversity of the affected region.&nbsp;According to the ICG, within 2-3 hours of the cargo vessel’s sinking, their surveillance aircraft detected the presence of an oil slick at the site, following which ICG ship Saksham, already on standby in Pollution Response (PR) configuration, was immediately deployed to begin counter-pollution operations. In parallel, a Dornier aircraft was launched for aerial assessment and the dispersal of Oil Spill Dispersant (OSD) across a wide area.&nbsp;On Sunday, the oil slick was observed drifting in an east-southeast direction at an estimated speed of 3.6 kmph. The prevailing active Southwest monsoon, with rough seas and strong winds, presented challenging conditions for responders.&nbsp;Despite the adverse conditions, ICG personnel continued their operations with resilience, navigating dangerous waters littered with floating containers and ensuring safe diversion of all merchant traffic away from the affected zone. By Sunday noon, the spill was assessed to have spread over an area of approximately two square kilometres.&nbsp;Further, more than 100 containers were observed floating near the site, with some breaking apart and their contents scattered in adjacent waters. Mariners have been issued advisories to maintain a sharp lookout and exercise caution, as metallic shipping containers coming in contact with a vessel’s propeller or other systems could cause serious damage.&nbsp;ICG continues intensive surveillance and spill mitigation through air operations and deployment of Oil Spill dispersant Chemicals using specialised equipment. Two ICG Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) remain on-site for ongoing monitoring, assessment, and pollution response. In addition, the ICG has mobilised ICG Ship Samudra Prahari, a specialised Pollution Response Vessel carrying significant quantities of oil dispersing chemicals, along with additional OPVs in Pollution Response configuration.&nbsp;On Sunday, a coordination meeting was convened by the Directorate General of Shipping, bringing together key stakeholders including ICG, vessel owners, managers, Kerala state authorities, and others to implement an integrated response strategy. Ship managing firm MSC has appointed T&amp;T Salvage for the cleanup and recovery operations, including container and cargo retrieval and oil removal from the wreck.&nbsp;As per directives under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958, the Mercantile Marine Department (MMD), Kochi, has issued a warning to the sunken vessel’s owners regarding pollution liability. The ICG has also advised the state administration to prepare for shoreline clean-up operations and to caution local communities against handling any debris or cargo that may wash ashore.

This disaster has occurred at a time when the Southwest monsoon is active in the region, causing rough seas, harsh winds, and heavy rainfall, which can potentially carry the debris far and wide.

Debris from the MSC ELSA3 cargo ship that sank off the Kerala coast on May 25 has now reached the coasts of adjoining Tamil Nadu state, raising environmental concerns. The Liberian-flagged cargo vessel with hazardous cargo, more than 640 containers, and over 400 metric tonnes of fuel had sunk about 30 km off Alappuzha, Kerala, following which plastic pellets and shipping containers began washing along the Kerala coast. The Tamil Nadu-headquartered Indian Coast Guard Region East personnel have been keeping a close watch on the situation and coordinating response to tackle the debris, including plastic pellets that have washed ashore along Tamil Nadu coasts at Colachel and Kanyakumari. Besides, a 40-foot shipping container has also washed ashore at the Kodimunai beach. Indian Coast Guard teams have been deputed to these locations for assisting the district administration in the ongoing cleanup operations. On Friday, 30th May, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin held a meeting regarding the safe disposal of the plastic particles and other debris floating along the southern coastal regions of Tamil Nadu. The meeting touched upon the possible impact of the debris on fisheries, and the measures to be taken to protect the environment. Further, the fisheries department has advised that fishing and related activities be avoided in this region, and to check whether marine life has been affected and plastic particles are found in fish. While the Tamil Nadu government said that no hazardous materials have washed up on the state’s coast, it has advised the public and fisherfolk to immediately report any plastic particles, containers, or suspicious items found along the coast. Kerala declared MSC ELSA 3 shipwreck a state disaster On 29th May, four days after cargo ship MSC ELSA3 sank off its coast, the government in the southern Indian state of Kerala declared it a state disaster. Through the week, shipping containers and plastic pellets washed ashore along Kerala’s scenic beaches. The maritime incident has raised serious environmental concerns, including the potential for oil spill and drifting of debris, including cargo, along the coastline, said the Kerala government. “Considering the potentially serious environmental, social, and economic impact of the ship wreckage, the Government hereby declares the wreckage of ship M/s ELSA 3 in the Arabian sea 14.6 nautical miles off the Kerala coast as a State-Specific disaster,” read a statement from Kerala’s Disaster Management Department. The declaration of state disaster indicates the severity of the incident, as Kerala is a popular hub for tourists, is rich in marine life and biodiversity, offers wide range of seafood, and has the highest seafood-consuming population in India. This disaster has also occurred at a time when the Southwest monsoon is active in the region, causing rough seas, harsh winds, and heavy rainfall, which can potentially carry the debris far and wide. Here’s how Indian Coast Guard responded to the environmental disaster Since the morning hours of Sunday, 25th May, when the Liberian-flagged cargo vessel MSC ELSA3 sank off the Kerala coast, Indian Coast Guard (ICG) assets have been combating the resultant oil spill and marine pollution. Oil spills are major maritime disasters that have the potential to cause serious damage to the economy and biodiversity of the affected region. According to the ICG, within 2-3 hours of the cargo vessel’s sinking, their surveillance aircraft detected the presence of an oil slick at the site, following which ICG ship Saksham, already on standby in Pollution Response (PR) configuration, was immediately deployed to begin counter-pollution operations. In parallel, a Dornier aircraft was launched for aerial assessment and the dispersal of Oil Spill Dispersant (OSD) across a wide area. On Sunday, the oil slick was observed drifting in an east-southeast direction at an estimated speed of 3.6 kmph. The prevailing active Southwest monsoon, with rough seas and strong winds, presented challenging conditions for responders. Despite the adverse conditions, ICG personnel continued their operations with resilience, navigating dangerous waters littered with floating containers and ensuring safe diversion of all merchant traffic away from the affected zone. By Sunday noon, the spill was assessed to have spread over an area of approximately two square kilometres. Further, more than 100 containers were observed floating near the site, with some breaking apart and their contents scattered in adjacent waters. Mariners have been issued advisories to maintain a sharp lookout and exercise caution, as metallic shipping containers coming in contact with a vessel’s propeller or other systems could cause serious damage. ICG continues intensive surveillance and spill mitigation through air operations and deployment of Oil Spill dispersant Chemicals using specialised equipment. Two ICG Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) remain on-site for ongoing monitoring, assessment, and pollution response. In addition, the ICG has mobilised ICG Ship Samudra Prahari, a specialised Pollution Response Vessel carrying significant quantities of oil dispersing chemicals, along with additional OPVs in Pollution Response configuration. On Sunday, a coordination meeting was convened by the Directorate General of Shipping, bringing together key stakeholders including ICG, vessel owners, managers, Kerala state authorities, and others to implement an integrated response strategy. Ship managing firm MSC has appointed T&T Salvage for the cleanup and recovery operations, including container and cargo retrieval and oil removal from the wreck. As per directives under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958, the Mercantile Marine Department (MMD), Kochi, has issued a warning to the sunken vessel’s owners regarding pollution liability. The ICG has also advised the state administration to prepare for shoreline clean-up operations and to caution local communities against handling any debris or cargo that may wash ashore.

This disaster has occurred at a time when the Southwest monsoon is active in the region, causing rough seas, harsh winds, and heavy rainfall, which can potentially carry the debris far and wide.

Debris from MSC ELSA3 shipwreck off Kerala coast reaches Tamil Nadu shores

Four days after the Liberia-flagged cargo ship MSC ELSA3 sank off its Coast, the Government in the Southern Indian state of Kerala has declared it a State Disaster. The cargo ship, which sank on 25th May, barely 30 km away from the Alappuzha coast, was carrying over 400 metric tons of fuel, more than 643 containers, which included those with hazardous cargo. Throughout this week, shipping containers and plastic pellets have been washed ashore along Kerala's scenic beaches.&nbsp;The maritime incident has raised serious environmental concerns, including the potential for an Oil spill and drifting of debris, including cargo, along Kerala's coastline, said the Kerala Government. "Considering the potentially serious environmental, social, and economic impact of the ship wreckage, the Government hereby declares the wreckage of ship M/s ELSA 3 in the Arabian Sea 14.6 nautical miles off the Kerala coast as a State-Specific disaster," read a statement from Kerala's Disaster Management Department.&nbsp;The declaration of State Disaster indicates the severity of the incident, as Kerala is a popular hub for tourists, is rich in marine life and biodiversity, offers a wide range of seafood, and has among the highest seafood-consuming populations in India. This Disaster has also occurred at a time when the Southwest monsoon is active in the region, causing rough seas, harsh winds and heavy rainfall, which can potentially carry the debris far and wide.&nbsp;<h2>Here's how Indian Coast Guard responded to the environmental Disaster&nbsp;</h2>Since the morning hours of Sunday, 25th May, when the Liberian-flagged cargo vessel MSC ELSA3 sank off the Kerala coast, Indian Coast Guard(ICG) assets have been combating the resultant oil spill and marine pollution. Oil spills are major maritime disasters that have the potential to cause serious damage to the economy, biodiversity of the affected region.&nbsp;According to the ICG, within 2-3 hours of the cargo vessel’s sinking, their surveillance aircraft detected the presence of an oil slick at the site.&nbsp;Following this, ICG ship Saksham, already on standby in Pollution Response (PR) configuration, was immediately deployed to begin counter-pollution operations. In parallel, a Dornier aircraft was launched for aerial assessment and the dispersal of Oil Spill Dispersant (OSD) across a wide area.On Sunday, the oil slick was observed drifting in an east-southeast direction at an estimated speed of 3.6 kmph. The prevailing active Southwest monsoon, with rough seas and strong winds, presented challenging conditions for responders.Despite the adverse conditions, ICG personnel continued their operations with resilience, navigating dangerous waters littered with floating containers and ensuring safe diversion of all merchant traffic away from the affected zone. By Sunday noon, the spill was assessed to have spread over an area of approximately&nbsp;two square kilometres.&nbsp;Further, more than 100 containers were observed floating near the site, with some breaking apart and their contents scattered in adjacent waters. Mariners have been issued advisories to maintain a sharp lookout and exercise caution, as metallic shipping containers coming in contact with a vessel's propeller or other systems could cause serious damage.&nbsp;ICG continues intensive surveillance and spill mitigation through air operations and deployment of Oil Spill dispersant Chemicals using specialised equipment. Two ICG Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) remain on-site for ongoing monitoring, assessment, and pollution response. In addition, the ICG has mobilised ICG Ship Samudra Prahari, a specialised Pollution Response Vessel carrying significant quantities of Oil-dispersing chemicals, along with additional OPVs in Pollution Response configuration.On Sunday, a coordination meeting was convened by the Directorate General of Shipping, bringing together key stakeholders, including ICG, vessel owners, managers, Kerala state authorities, and others to implement an integrated response strategy. Ship managing firm MSC has appointed T&amp;T Salvage for cleanup and recovery operations, including container and cargo retrieval and oil removal from the wreck.As per directives under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958, the Mercantile Marine Department (MMD), Kochi, has issued a warning to the sunken vessel’s owners regarding pollution liability. The ICG has also advised the state administration to prepare for shoreline cleanup operations and to caution local communities against handling any debris or cargo that may wash ashore.

Kerala Government has called the sinking of the cargo MSC ELSA3 ship a serious state disaster, and it has the potential to cause serious damage to the economy, biodiversity

Four days after the Liberia-flagged cargo ship MSC ELSA3 sank off its Coast, the Government in the Southern Indian state of Kerala has declared it a State Disaster. The cargo ship, which sank on 25th May, barely 30 km away from the Alappuzha coast, was carrying over 400 metric tons of fuel, more than 643 containers, which included those with hazardous cargo. Throughout this week, shipping containers and plastic pellets have been washed ashore along Kerala's scenic beaches. The maritime incident has raised serious environmental concerns, including the potential for an Oil spill and drifting of debris, including cargo, along Kerala's coastline, said the Kerala Government. "Considering the potentially serious environmental, social, and economic impact of the ship wreckage, the Government hereby declares the wreckage of ship M/s ELSA 3 in the Arabian Sea 14.6 nautical miles off the Kerala coast as a State-Specific disaster," read a statement from Kerala's Disaster Management Department. The declaration of State Disaster indicates the severity of the incident, as Kerala is a popular hub for tourists, is rich in marine life and biodiversity, offers a wide range of seafood, and has among the highest seafood-consuming populations in India. This Disaster has also occurred at a time when the Southwest monsoon is active in the region, causing rough seas, harsh winds and heavy rainfall, which can potentially carry the debris far and wide. Here's how Indian Coast Guard responded to the environmental Disaster Since the morning hours of Sunday, 25th May, when the Liberian-flagged cargo vessel MSC ELSA3 sank off the Kerala coast, Indian Coast Guard(ICG) assets have been combating the resultant oil spill and marine pollution. Oil spills are major maritime disasters that have the potential to cause serious damage to the economy, biodiversity of the affected region. According to the ICG, within 2-3 hours of the cargo vessel’s sinking, their surveillance aircraft detected the presence of an oil slick at the site. Following this, ICG ship Saksham, already on standby in Pollution Response (PR) configuration, was immediately deployed to begin counter-pollution operations. In parallel, a Dornier aircraft was launched for aerial assessment and the dispersal of Oil Spill Dispersant (OSD) across a wide area. On Sunday, the oil slick was observed drifting in an east-southeast direction at an estimated speed of 3.6 kmph. The prevailing active Southwest monsoon, with rough seas and strong winds, presented challenging conditions for responders. Despite the adverse conditions, ICG personnel continued their operations with resilience, navigating dangerous waters littered with floating containers and ensuring safe diversion of all merchant traffic away from the affected zone. By Sunday noon, the spill was assessed to have spread over an area of approximately two square kilometres. Further, more than 100 containers were observed floating near the site, with some breaking apart and their contents scattered in adjacent waters. Mariners have been issued advisories to maintain a sharp lookout and exercise caution, as metallic shipping containers coming in contact with a vessel's propeller or other systems could cause serious damage. ICG continues intensive surveillance and spill mitigation through air operations and deployment of Oil Spill dispersant Chemicals using specialised equipment. Two ICG Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) remain on-site for ongoing monitoring, assessment, and pollution response. In addition, the ICG has mobilised ICG Ship Samudra Prahari, a specialised Pollution Response Vessel carrying significant quantities of Oil-dispersing chemicals, along with additional OPVs in Pollution Response configuration. On Sunday, a coordination meeting was convened by the Directorate General of Shipping, bringing together key stakeholders, including ICG, vessel owners, managers, Kerala state authorities, and others to implement an integrated response strategy. Ship managing firm MSC has appointed T&T Salvage for cleanup and recovery operations, including container and cargo retrieval and oil removal from the wreck. As per directives under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958, the Mercantile Marine Department (MMD), Kochi, has issued a warning to the sunken vessel’s owners regarding pollution liability. The ICG has also advised the state administration to prepare for shoreline cleanup operations and to caution local communities against handling any debris or cargo that may wash ashore.

Kerala Government has called the sinking of the cargo MSC ELSA3 ship a serious state disaster, and it has the potential to cause serious damage to the economy, biodiversity

Kerala govt declares Liberian cargo shipwreck a state-specific disaster

Since the morning hours of Sunday, 25th May, when the Liberian-flagged cargo vessel MSC ELSA3 sank off the Kerala coast, Indian Coast Guard (ICG) assets have been combating the resultant oil spill and marine pollution. Oil spills are major maritime disasters that have the potential to cause serious damage to the economy and biodiversity of the affected region. Notably, the Kerala coast, which is at direct risk from this marine accident is rich in marine life and is a popular tourist hub.&nbsp;According to the ICG, within 2-3 hours of the cargo vessel’s sinking, their surveillance aircraft detected the presence of an oil slick at the site.Following which, ICG ship Saksham, already on standby in Pollution Response (PR) configuration, was immediately deployed to begin counter-pollution operations. In parallel, a Dornier aircraft was launched for aerial assessment and the dispersal of Oil Spill Dispersant (OSD) across a wide area.&nbsp;As of 11 am Sunday, the oil slick was observed drifting in an east-southeast direction at an estimated speed of 3.6 kmph. The prevailing active Southwest monsoon, with rough seas and strong winds, presented challenging conditions for responders.&nbsp;Despite the adverse conditions, ICG personnel continued their operations with resilience, navigating dangerous waters littered with floating containers and ensuring safe diversion of all merchant traffic away from the affected zone. By 2 pm Sunday, the spill was assessed to have spread over an area of approximately two square kilometres.&nbsp;&nbsp;Further, more than 100 containers were observed floating near the site, with some breaking apart and their contents scattered in adjacent waters. Mariners have been issued advisories to maintain a sharp lookout and exercise caution, as metallic shipping containers coming in contact with a vessel’s propeller or other systems could cause serious damage.&nbsp;ICG continues intensive surveillance and spill mitigation through air operations and deployment of Oil Spill Dispersant Chemicals using specialised equipment. Two ICG Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) remain on-site for ongoing monitoring, assessment, and pollution response. In addition, the ICG has mobilised ICG Ship Samudra Prahari, a specialised Pollution Response Vessel carrying significant quantities of Oil dispersing chemicals, along with additional OPVs in Pollution Response configuration.&nbsp;On Sunday, a coordination meeting was convened by the Directorate General of Shipping, bringing together key stakeholders including ICG, vessel owners, managers, Kerala state authorities, and others to implement an integrated response strategy. Ship managing firm MSC has appointed T&amp;T Salvage for cleanup and recovery operations, including container and cargo retrieval and oil removal from the wreck.As per directives under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958, the Mercantile Marine Department (MMD), Kochi, has issued a warning to the sunken vessel’s owners regarding pollution liability. The ICG has also advised the state administration to prepare for shoreline cleanup operations and to caution local communities against handling any debris or cargo that may wash ashore.

As of 11 am Sunday, the oil slick was observed drifting in an east-southeast direction at an estimated speed of 3.6 kmph. The prevailing active Southwest monsoon, with rough seas and strong winds, presented challenging conditions for responders.

Since the morning hours of Sunday, 25th May, when the Liberian-flagged cargo vessel MSC ELSA3 sank off the Kerala coast, Indian Coast Guard (ICG) assets have been combating the resultant oil spill and marine pollution. Oil spills are major maritime disasters that have the potential to cause serious damage to the economy and biodiversity of the affected region. Notably, the Kerala coast, which is at direct risk from this marine accident is rich in marine life and is a popular tourist hub. According to the ICG, within 2-3 hours of the cargo vessel’s sinking, their surveillance aircraft detected the presence of an oil slick at the site. Following which, ICG ship Saksham, already on standby in Pollution Response (PR) configuration, was immediately deployed to begin counter-pollution operations. In parallel, a Dornier aircraft was launched for aerial assessment and the dispersal of Oil Spill Dispersant (OSD) across a wide area. As of 11 am Sunday, the oil slick was observed drifting in an east-southeast direction at an estimated speed of 3.6 kmph. The prevailing active Southwest monsoon, with rough seas and strong winds, presented challenging conditions for responders. Despite the adverse conditions, ICG personnel continued their operations with resilience, navigating dangerous waters littered with floating containers and ensuring safe diversion of all merchant traffic away from the affected zone. By 2 pm Sunday, the spill was assessed to have spread over an area of approximately two square kilometres. Further, more than 100 containers were observed floating near the site, with some breaking apart and their contents scattered in adjacent waters. Mariners have been issued advisories to maintain a sharp lookout and exercise caution, as metallic shipping containers coming in contact with a vessel’s propeller or other systems could cause serious damage. ICG continues intensive surveillance and spill mitigation through air operations and deployment of Oil Spill Dispersant Chemicals using specialised equipment. Two ICG Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) remain on-site for ongoing monitoring, assessment, and pollution response. In addition, the ICG has mobilised ICG Ship Samudra Prahari, a specialised Pollution Response Vessel carrying significant quantities of Oil dispersing chemicals, along with additional OPVs in Pollution Response configuration. On Sunday, a coordination meeting was convened by the Directorate General of Shipping, bringing together key stakeholders including ICG, vessel owners, managers, Kerala state authorities, and others to implement an integrated response strategy. Ship managing firm MSC has appointed T&T Salvage for cleanup and recovery operations, including container and cargo retrieval and oil removal from the wreck. As per directives under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958, the Mercantile Marine Department (MMD), Kochi, has issued a warning to the sunken vessel’s owners regarding pollution liability. The ICG has also advised the state administration to prepare for shoreline cleanup operations and to caution local communities against handling any debris or cargo that may wash ashore.

As of 11 am Sunday, the oil slick was observed drifting in an east-southeast direction at an estimated speed of 3.6 kmph. The prevailing active Southwest monsoon, with rough seas and strong winds, presented challenging conditions for responders.

Here’s how Indian Coast Guard is cleaning up oil spill off Kerala

Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the country&rsquo;s first deepwater transhipment port&mdash;the Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport&mdash;in Kerala to the nation on Friday, in what is being viewed as the first step in making India a global shipping hub.
The Vizhinjam transhipment port project was conceptualised in 1991 but navigated through numerous legal, environmental, logistical, and financial hurdles.
The Kerala government holds a majority stake in the port built under the public-private-partnership mode at the cost of ₹8,900 crore.&nbsp; The port, developed by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd. (APSEZ), is expected to transform India&rsquo;s role in international trade and shipping and could save $220 million in revenue annually.
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<h2>What is a deepwater transhipment port?</h2>
A transhipment port is one that has terminals where cargo containers are shifted from one vessel to another before the ships reach their destinations. These ports are used to process large amounts of international cargo. Until now, India had to rely on big foreign ports like Colombo for this.
The absence of such a port infrastructure in India meant longer transit times and delays for traders.&nbsp;
<h2>How will the seaport help India save millions?</h2>
Since there was no deepwater transhipment port in the country, 75 per cent of India&rsquo;s transhipment cargo used to come through foreign ports like Colombo in Sri Lanka, Singapore, and Jebel Ali in the UAE, leading to longer transit periods and delays for domestic traders, costing them an additional $80 to $100 per container.
India can now generate an additional $220 million a year by serving its own cargo.
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Apart from money, the capacity to handle transhipment cargo would insulate India&rsquo;s supply chains from potential geopolitical shocks.
Located just 10 nautical miles from the international shipping route that connects Europe, the Persian Gulf, and the Far East, Vizhinjam enjoys inherent locational advantages.
Its proximity to the East-West axis provides easy access without deviation for large vessels that form the lifeline of ocean commerce.
As a result, India can service big cargo vessels with a capacity of upwards of 20,000 containers. The location has minimal sand movement along the coast, thus reducing maintenance cost.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-iaf-conducts-take-off-and-landing-exercises-of-rafale-jaguar-on-ganga-expressway-9025452" rel="noopener" target="_blank">WATCH | IAF conducts take-off and landing exercises of Rafale, Jaguar on Ganga Expressway</a>
Gifted by nature with a deep draft of 18 metre close to shore that requires no capital dredging, Vizhinjam can leverage its natural depth to host even ultra-large next-gen container ships requiring 20 metre+ drafts.
The Prime Minister said that the capacity of this transshipment hub will triple in the coming years, enabling the smooth arrival of some of the world&rsquo;s largest cargo ships.
&ldquo;Vizhinjam will bring economic stability to Kerala and India,&rdquo; the PM said.

India News: The port's capacity to handle transhipment cargo would insulate India’s supply chains from potential geopolitical shocks, while its proximity to the East-West axis provides easy access for large vessels.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the country’s first deepwater transhipment port—the Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport—in Kerala to the nation on Friday, in what is being viewed as the first step in making India a global shipping hub. The Vizhinjam transhipment port project was conceptualised in 1991 but navigated through numerous legal, environmental, logistical, and financial hurdles. The Kerala government holds a majority stake in the port built under the public-private-partnership mode at the cost of ₹8,900 crore. The port, developed by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd. (APSEZ), is expected to transform India’s role in international trade and shipping and could save $220 million in revenue annually. Also Read | Starmer vows ‘further and faster’ change after by-election loss; Farage claims Reform now ‘real’ opposition What is a deepwater transhipment port? A transhipment port is one that has terminals where cargo containers are shifted from one vessel to another before the ships reach their destinations. These ports are used to process large amounts of international cargo. Until now, India had to rely on big foreign ports like Colombo for this. The absence of such a port infrastructure in India meant longer transit times and delays for traders. How will the seaport help India save millions? Since there was no deepwater transhipment port in the country, 75 per cent of India’s transhipment cargo used to come through foreign ports like Colombo in Sri Lanka, Singapore, and Jebel Ali in the UAE, leading to longer transit periods and delays for domestic traders, costing them an additional $80 to $100 per container. India can now generate an additional $220 million a year by serving its own cargo. Also Read | Germany’s far-right party AfD labelled as ‘extremist organisation’ by spy agency BfV, ban threat looms Apart from money, the capacity to handle transhipment cargo would insulate India’s supply chains from potential geopolitical shocks. Located just 10 nautical miles from the international shipping route that connects Europe, the Persian Gulf, and the Far East, Vizhinjam enjoys inherent locational advantages. Its proximity to the East-West axis provides easy access without deviation for large vessels that form the lifeline of ocean commerce. As a result, India can service big cargo vessels with a capacity of upwards of 20,000 containers. The location has minimal sand movement along the coast, thus reducing maintenance cost. WATCH | IAF conducts take-off and landing exercises of Rafale, Jaguar on Ganga Expressway Gifted by nature with a deep draft of 18 metre close to shore that requires no capital dredging, Vizhinjam can leverage its natural depth to host even ultra-large next-gen container ships requiring 20 metre+ drafts. The Prime Minister said that the capacity of this transshipment hub will triple in the coming years, enabling the smooth arrival of some of the world’s largest cargo ships. “Vizhinjam will bring economic stability to Kerala and India,” the PM said.

How will Vizhinjam Port save India $220 million yearly, help businesses

Mollywood is setting the box office on fire in 2025, with back-to-back hits like L2: Empuraan and Rekhachithram capturing global attention. From intense thrillers to inspiring sports dramas, Malayalam cinema is proving to be a powerhouse in the Indian and international film industries.

Mollywood dominates 2025 with blockbusters from thrillers to dramas

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