<p>The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) hit out at Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Sunday for skipping Prime Minister Narendra Modi&rsquo;s official engagements in the state, and alleged that his absence was deliberate and politically motivated.</p>
<p>Launching a scathing attack on CM for skipping PM&rsquo;s official programme in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai accused Stalin of &ldquo;insulting&rdquo; Prime Minister Modi.<br>Stalin was in Udhagamandalam (Ooty) to unveil a government hospital and said he had informed the PM about his inability to attend the latter&rsquo;s programme in Rameswaram.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read |<span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-is-rahul-gandhi-opposing-offshore-drilling-economic-benefits-vs-politics-8910893" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Why is Rahul Gandhi opposing offshore mining? Economic benefits vs politics</a></strong></p>
<p>PM Modi inaugurated the new Pamban Bridge at Rameswaram, besides launching other initiatives worth over ₹8,000 crore.<br>&ldquo;We have sought an appointment to present the memorandum on the delimitation... Since I am taking part in this government function, I have conveyed to the PM about my inability to take part in his meeting and deputed our Ministers Thangam Thennarasu and Raja Kannappan,&rdquo; Stalin said.<br>&ldquo;Through this meeting and through you, I hereby seek the Prime Minister to allay the fears of delimitation,&rdquo; Stalin said earlier in the day.</p>
<h2>&lsquo;CM has failed in his constitutional duty&rsquo;: Annamalai</h2>
<p>Annamalai said it was a matter of regret that CM Stalin was not present at the PM&rsquo;s event.</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Our Hon PM Thiru <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> avl today inaugurated India&rsquo;s first vertical-lift sea bridge in Pamban and also inaugurated various developmental projects in Tamil Nadu after arriving here after a successful state visit in Sri Lanka. <br><br>Instead of attending this significant event,&hellip;</p>
&mdash; K.Annamalai (@annamalai_k) <a href="https://twitter.com/annamalai_k/status/1908849794182738038?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p>&ldquo;The reason given by him (CM) is not acceptable. He knows about PM&rsquo;s arrival, as the discussions were happening for long.&rdquo;<br>&ldquo;The Prime Minister did not go to New Delhi directly from Sri Lanka but came here to dedicate projects. That being the case, it is the primary duty of the CM to welcome the PM,&rdquo; Annamalai said at a press briefing.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read |<span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/better-to-split-up-bangladesh-than-northeast-leaders-response-to-yunus-remark-8913690" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&lsquo;Better to split up Bangladesh than&hellip;&rsquo;: Northeast leader&rsquo;s response to Yunus remark</a></strong></p>
<p>&ldquo;The chief minister has failed in his constitutional duty. He has insulted the Prime Minister, who came to Tamil Nadu with the intention of launching development works for the benefit of the people. He should apologise to the people of Tamil Nadu,&rdquo; the BJP leader said.</p>
<p>The BJP &ldquo;strongly condemns&rdquo; the CM skipping the event, he said while accusing Stalin of doing politics.<br>&ldquo;He went to Ooty since it is hot in Rameswaram, and he can&rsquo;t bear the heat,&rdquo; he said.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read |<span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-making-a-u-turn-ex-maoist-guerrilla-leads-fight-for-return-of-monarchy-hindu-nation-8911280" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Nepal making a U-turn? Ex-Maoist guerrilla leads fight for return of monarchy, Hindu nation</a></strong></p>
<p>Annamalai also dismissed Stalin&rsquo;s concern over the delimitation process as &ldquo;drama&rdquo; and accused him of doing politics even during a central event meant for public welfare. The BJP said the Centre has shown unwavering commitment to Tamil Nadu&rsquo;s development, and Stalin&rsquo;s absence was a disrespect to that effort.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

India News: Stalin has insulted the Prime Minister, who came to Tamil Nadu with the intention of launching development works for the benefit of the people. He should apologise to the people of Tamil Nadu, said Annamalai.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) hit out at Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Sunday for skipping Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official engagements in the state, and alleged that his absence was deliberate and politically motivated. Launching a scathing attack on CM for skipping PM’s official programme in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai accused Stalin of “insulting” Prime Minister Modi. Stalin was in Udhagamandalam (Ooty) to unveil a government hospital and said he had informed the PM about his inability to attend the latter’s programme in Rameswaram. Also Read | Why is Rahul Gandhi opposing offshore mining? Economic benefits vs politics PM Modi inaugurated the new Pamban Bridge at Rameswaram, besides launching other initiatives worth over ₹8,000 crore. “We have sought an appointment to present the memorandum on the delimitation... Since I am taking part in this government function, I have conveyed to the PM about my inability to take part in his meeting and deputed our Ministers Thangam Thennarasu and Raja Kannappan,” Stalin said. “Through this meeting and through you, I hereby seek the Prime Minister to allay the fears of delimitation,” Stalin said earlier in the day. ‘CM has failed in his constitutional duty’: Annamalai Annamalai said it was a matter of regret that CM Stalin was not present at the PM’s event. Our Hon PM Thiru @narendramodi avl today inaugurated India’s first vertical-lift sea bridge in Pamban and also inaugurated various developmental projects in Tamil Nadu after arriving here after a successful state visit in Sri Lanka. Instead of attending this significant event,… — K.Annamalai (@annamalai_k) April 6, 2025 “The reason given by him (CM) is not acceptable. He knows about PM’s arrival, as the discussions were happening for long.” “The Prime Minister did not go to New Delhi directly from Sri Lanka but came here to dedicate projects. That being the case, it is the primary duty of the CM to welcome the PM,” Annamalai said at a press briefing. Also read | ‘Better to split up Bangladesh than…’: Northeast leader’s response to Yunus remark “The chief minister has failed in his constitutional duty. He has insulted the Prime Minister, who came to Tamil Nadu with the intention of launching development works for the benefit of the people. He should apologise to the people of Tamil Nadu,” the BJP leader said. The BJP “strongly condemns” the CM skipping the event, he said while accusing Stalin of doing politics. “He went to Ooty since it is hot in Rameswaram, and he can’t bear the heat,” he said. Also Read | Nepal making a U-turn? Ex-Maoist guerrilla leads fight for return of monarchy, Hindu nation Annamalai also dismissed Stalin’s concern over the delimitation process as “drama” and accused him of doing politics even during a central event meant for public welfare. The BJP said the Centre has shown unwavering commitment to Tamil Nadu’s development, and Stalin’s absence was a disrespect to that effort. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP slams Stalin, accuses him of insulting PM Modi by skipping Tamil Nadu event

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Jan 20) held a roadshow in Tamil Nadu's Rameswaram ahead of the much-awaited 'Pran Pratishtha' i.e., the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple where people warmly welcomed him and showered flower petals at his cavalcade.</p>

<p>He was in Rameswaram to perform darshan and pooja in Sri Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple.</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, PM Modi took part in a programme at Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu where scholars recited verses from the Kamba Ramayanam.</p>

<p>The Indian prime minister also sought blessings from an elephant named 'Andal' in the temple premises.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Tamil Nadu: An elephant at Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Tiruchirappalli blessed Prime Minister Narendra Modi and played a mouth organ as PM visited the temple to offer prayers.<br />
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PM Narendra Modi is the first prime minister to visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in… <a href="https://t.co/3YI22dO0UM">pic.twitter.com/3YI22dO0UM</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1748593547782357133?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>PM Modi on Saturday worshipped at the temple after taking a holy dip at the 'Agnitheerth' beach.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi offers prayers at Sri Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. The Prime Minister also took a holy dip into the sea here. <a href="https://t.co/v7BCSxdnSk">pic.twitter.com/v7BCSxdnSk</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1748675224806289713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hidden in the Rameswaram island of Tamil Nadu's Ramanathapuram district, the Shiva temple holds a significant connection to the Ramayana, as the Shiva linga here was installed by Lord Ram. &nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="ta">ஶ்ரீ ரங்கநாதசுவாமி கோவிலில் வழிபாடு செய்யும் பாக்கியம் கிடைத்தது. இந்த கோவிலுடனான பிரபு ஶ்ரீராமரின் தொடர்பு நெடியது. பிரபு ஸ்ரீ ராமர் வழிபட்ட கடவுளால் நானும் ஆசீர்வதிக்கப்பட்டதை பாக்கியமாக உணர்கிறேன். <a href="https://t.co/BCeQqDDpnf">pic.twitter.com/BCeQqDDpnf</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1748731682692518296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lord Ram and Sita Devi also prayed here.</p>

<p>PM Modi, who is the first prime minister to have paid a visit to Ranganathaswamy Temple, landed here by an Air Force chopper and was accorded a rousing reception by BJP workers and the local people.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="ta">140 கோடி இந்தியர்களின் ஆரோக்கியம் மற்றும் நல்வாழ்வுக்காக அருள்மிகு ராமநாதசுவாமி கோயிலில் பிரார்த்தனை செய்தேன். <a href="https://t.co/iAzm7xooCu">pic.twitter.com/iAzm7xooCu</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1748731912200585355?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi to visit Ram Setu's origin point in Tamil Nadu</strong></h2>

<p>The Indian prime minister, who is observing an 11-day 'anusthan' (special ritual) ahead of the consecration ceremony is set to visit the Ram Setu's origin point at 9:30 am on Sunday morning (Jan 21).</p>

<p>He will perform a prayer at 10:15 am at Sri Kothandarama Swamy temple.</p>

<p>The temple, whose name stands for Rama with the bow, is s located in Dhanushkodi.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-temple-inauguration-govt-issues-advisory-to-media-social-media-platforms-against-posting-false-content-681876">Ram Temple inauguration: Govt warns media against disturbing communal harmony</a></p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi releases commemorative postage stamps on Ram Temple</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi had earlier, on Thursday, released commemorative postage stamps and a book of stamps dedicated to Lord Ram by countries across the globe.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Ram Mandir Consecration: Stock market to remain shut on January 22&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The components of the design, according to the officials, include the Ram temple, the 'chaupai' (verse) 'Mangal Bhavan Amangal Hari', the sun, Saryu river and sculptures in and around the temple.</p>

<p>The 48-page book included stamps from the countries like USA, New Zealand, Singapore, Canada, and Cambodia, and even organisations like the United Nations.</p>

<p>PM Modi said that the postal stamps were not just pieces of paper or mere artwork but were mediums that would take the historical event to future generations.</p>

<p>"The postal stamps are mediums to take ideas, history and the historical moment (around the opening of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya) to the future generations. Sending postage stamps is like sending a piece of history. These postal stamps are not just pieces of paper or mere artwork. They are miniature epics and artworks in their own right," he said.</p>

<p>The Indian prime minister will attend the ceremony scheduled on Monday (Jan 22) at the temple in Ayodhya, which is expected to open for the public the very next day.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Jan 20) held a roadshow in Tamil Nadu's Rameswaram ahead of the much-awaited 'Pran Pratishtha' i.e., the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple where people warmly welcomed him and showered flower petals at his cavalcade.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Jan 20) held a roadshow in Tamil Nadu's Rameswaram ahead of the much-awaited 'Pran Pratishtha' i.e., the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple where people warmly welcomed him and showered flower petals at his cavalcade. He was in Rameswaram to perform darshan and pooja in Sri Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple. Earlier in the day, PM Modi took part in a programme at Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu where scholars recited verses from the Kamba Ramayanam. The Indian prime minister also sought blessings from an elephant named 'Andal' in the temple premises. #WATCH | Tamil Nadu: An elephant at Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Tiruchirappalli blessed Prime Minister Narendra Modi and played a mouth organ as PM visited the temple to offer prayers. PM Narendra Modi is the first prime minister to visit Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in… pic.twitter.com/3YI22dO0UM — ANI (@ANI) January 20, 2024 × PM Modi on Saturday worshipped at the temple after taking a holy dip at the 'Agnitheerth' beach. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi offers prayers at Sri Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. The Prime Minister also took a holy dip into the sea here. pic.twitter.com/v7BCSxdnSk — ANI (@ANI) January 20, 2024 × Hidden in the Rameswaram island of Tamil Nadu's Ramanathapuram district, the Shiva temple holds a significant connection to the Ramayana, as the Shiva linga here was installed by Lord Ram. ஶ்ரீ ரங்கநாதசுவாமி கோவிலில் வழிபாடு செய்யும் பாக்கியம் கிடைத்தது. இந்த கோவிலுடனான பிரபு ஶ்ரீராமரின் தொடர்பு நெடியது. பிரபு ஸ்ரீ ராமர் வழிபட்ட கடவுளால் நானும் ஆசீர்வதிக்கப்பட்டதை பாக்கியமாக உணர்கிறேன். pic.twitter.com/BCeQqDDpnf — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 20, 2024 × Lord Ram and Sita Devi also prayed here. PM Modi, who is the first prime minister to have paid a visit to Ranganathaswamy Temple, landed here by an Air Force chopper and was accorded a rousing reception by BJP workers and the local people. 140 கோடி இந்தியர்களின் ஆரோக்கியம் மற்றும் நல்வாழ்வுக்காக அருள்மிகு ராமநாதசுவாமி கோயிலில் பிரார்த்தனை செய்தேன். pic.twitter.com/iAzm7xooCu — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 20, 2024 × PM Modi to visit Ram Setu's origin point in Tamil Nadu The Indian prime minister, who is observing an 11-day 'anusthan' (special ritual) ahead of the consecration ceremony is set to visit the Ram Setu's origin point at 9:30 am on Sunday morning (Jan 21). He will perform a prayer at 10:15 am at Sri Kothandarama Swamy temple. The temple, whose name stands for Rama with the bow, is s located in Dhanushkodi. Also read: Ram Temple inauguration: Govt warns media against disturbing communal harmony PM Modi releases commemorative postage stamps on Ram Temple PM Modi had earlier, on Thursday, released commemorative postage stamps and a book of stamps dedicated to Lord Ram by countries across the globe. Watch | Ram Mandir Consecration: Stock market to remain shut on January 22 × The components of the design, according to the officials, include the Ram temple, the 'chaupai' (verse) 'Mangal Bhavan Amangal Hari', the sun, Saryu river and sculptures in and around the temple. The 48-page book included stamps from the countries like USA, New Zealand, Singapore, Canada, and Cambodia, and even organisations like the United Nations. PM Modi said that the postal stamps were not just pieces of paper or mere artwork but were mediums that would take the historical event to future generations. "The postal stamps are mediums to take ideas, history and the historical moment (around the opening of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya) to the future generations. Sending postage stamps is like sending a piece of history. These postal stamps are not just pieces of paper or mere artwork. They are miniature epics and artworks in their own right," he said. The Indian prime minister will attend the ceremony scheduled on Monday (Jan 22) at the temple in Ayodhya, which is expected to open for the public the very next day. (With inputs from agencies)

India: PM Modi holds dynamic roadshow in Tamil Nadu's Rameswaram

<p>According to a report, the Vaan Island, a small strip of land between India and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/11-indian-fishermen-held-off-sri-lankan-coast-for-fishing-in-territorial-waters-277164">Sri Lanka,&nbsp;</a>has been fast disappearing putting the India's&nbsp;biodiversity at risk.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-change-spurs-greening-in-barren-frozen-arctic-278178">Also Read:&nbsp;Climate change spurs greening in barren, frozen Arctic</a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The island which forms part of the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve has a fledgeling marine life with several thousand fish and crab species. The Vaan island was declared a marine biodiversity park in 1986. It is one of the twenty-one islands which is part of the Gulf of Mannar reserve.</p>

<p>The Gulf of Mannar extends from Rameswaram to Kanyakumari.</p>

<p>A report earlier had stated the area of the island has&nbsp;reduced from 16 hectares in 1986 to two hectares in 2014. The Tamil Nadu government a few years ago had resorted to building an artificial reef to protect the island. The area of the island has been consistently submerging since 1973, a study has stated.&nbsp; A report says only just 19 islands remain.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-temple-city-bagan-awarded-unesco-world-heritage-status-233628">UNESCO</a> describes the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve as one of the world’s richest region in marine biodiversity. It has &nbsp;4,223 species of plants and animals making it "one of the richest coastal regions in India." According to UNESCO, the reserve has a "specialized ecosystem" with a unique "large marine ecosystem".</p>

<p>The island is also widely used by Indian fishermen whose livelihood will be at risk if the island disappears. At least eight-four per cent of the island was submerged due to sea-level rise hitting the local tourism and fishing activities.</p>

<p>In a book named Shrinking of Vann Island, researchers had predicted that by 2022 the islands will be completely submerged into the sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Large scale fishing, including rising sea levels have been blamed for the current state of the Vaan islands. Mining of corals has also degraded the island, according to a study by researchers which was finally stopped in 2005. Indian authorities have in the past several years have been trying to rehabilitate the coral vegetation in phases.</p>

<p>Erosion has also seriously affected the islands with the area shrinking rapidly with global climate change also leading to rising sea levels, according to analysts.</p>


According to a report, the Vaan Island, a small strip of land between India and Sri Lanka, has been fast disappearing putting the India's biodiversity at risk. Also Read: Climate change spurs greening in barren, frozen Arctic The island which forms part of the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve has a fledgeling marine life with several thousand fish and crab species.

According to a report, the Vaan Island, a small strip of land between India and Sri Lanka, has been fast disappearing putting the India's biodiversity at risk. Also Read: Climate change spurs greening in barren, frozen Arctic The island which forms part of the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve has a fledgeling marine life with several thousand fish and crab species. The Vaan island was declared a marine biodiversity park in 1986. It is one of the twenty-one islands which is part of the Gulf of Mannar reserve. The Gulf of Mannar extends from Rameswaram to Kanyakumari. A report earlier had stated the area of the island has reduced from 16 hectares in 1986 to two hectares in 2014. The Tamil Nadu government a few years ago had resorted to building an artificial reef to protect the island. The area of the island has been consistently submerging since 1973, a study has stated. A report says only just 19 islands remain. UNESCO describes the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve as one of the world’s richest region in marine biodiversity. It has 4,223 species of plants and animals making it "one of the richest coastal regions in India." According to UNESCO, the reserve has a "specialized ecosystem" with a unique "large marine ecosystem". The island is also widely used by Indian fishermen whose livelihood will be at risk if the island disappears. At least eight-four per cent of the island was submerged due to sea-level rise hitting the local tourism and fishing activities. In a book named Shrinking of Vann Island, researchers had predicted that by 2022 the islands will be completely submerged into the sea. Large scale fishing, including rising sea levels have been blamed for the current state of the Vaan islands. Mining of corals has also degraded the island, according to a study by researchers which was finally stopped in 2005. Indian authorities have in the past several years have been trying to rehabilitate the coral vegetation in phases. Erosion has also seriously affected the islands with the area shrinking rapidly with global climate change also leading to rising sea levels, according to analysts.

'Disappearing' Vaan Island puts India's biodiversity at risk, hits local tourism

<p>At 70 where most are executing their retirement plans, this woman in Tamil Nadu with unmatchable grit is serving the poor.</p>

<p>Rani, runs an idli shop near Agni Tirtham in Rameswaram and serves free food to the needy.</p>

<p>Donning a bright smile on her face, she works relentlessly and earns her own livelihood.</p>

<p>Where she provides poor for free, she charges a minimum amount from the rest of her customers.</p>

<p>Rani owns at a makeshift shop at Rameswaram's Agni Thirtham seashore and uses the traditional wooden stove to prepares the food.</p>

<p>Assisted by a temporary labourer, she works throughout the year to serve idli at the cost Rs 30 in a city where, the residents say, a plate of idli costs at least Rs 60.</p>

<p>Speaking to ANI amid customers thronging her shop on a Sunday morning, Rani said people come to her shop only because she showers love on them and considers all as family.</p>

<p>"I do not have a proper shop what I have a temporary makeshift arrangement. People come to me only because of the love I shower on them. I never treat them as my customers rather I consider them as a member of my family," she said and added, "Although I am old, I earn my livelihood."</p>

<p>Rani said she still uses the traditional wooden stove to prepare her food because it is "economical".</p>

<p>Rakku, who works at her idli shop, said the shop provides temporary employment to her.</p>

<p>"I hail from a fisherman family. When we do not go to fishing, I work here," she told ANI.</p>

<p>She said that Rani does not insist on money if anyone is not able to pay for the food.</p>

<p>"So many people are our daily customers. We do not insist on the money. Even if anyone does not have money, you serve them the food and do not insist for payment," Rakku said.</p>

<p>Rani's roadside shop is famous amongst the locals and tourists alike.</p>

<p>"In Rameswaram, If you visit any hotel and have food, it will cost you at least Rs 60 but this shop offers food in just Rs 30. The most important thing is even on this age she works and maintains the old methods to prepare the food," Nagendran, a customer, told ANI.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


At 70 where most are executing their retirement plans, this woman in Tamil Nadu with unmatchable grit is serving the poor. Rani, runs an idli shop near Agni Tirtham in Rameswaram and serves free food to the needy.

At 70 where most are executing their retirement plans, this woman in Tamil Nadu with unmatchable grit is serving the poor. Rani, runs an idli shop near Agni Tirtham in Rameswaram and serves free food to the needy. Donning a bright smile on her face, she works relentlessly and earns her own livelihood. Where she provides poor for free, she charges a minimum amount from the rest of her customers. Rani owns at a makeshift shop at Rameswaram's Agni Thirtham seashore and uses the traditional wooden stove to prepares the food. Assisted by a temporary labourer, she works throughout the year to serve idli at the cost Rs 30 in a city where, the residents say, a plate of idli costs at least Rs 60. Speaking to ANI amid customers thronging her shop on a Sunday morning, Rani said people come to her shop only because she showers love on them and considers all as family. "I do not have a proper shop what I have a temporary makeshift arrangement. People come to me only because of the love I shower on them. I never treat them as my customers rather I consider them as a member of my family," she said and added, "Although I am old, I earn my livelihood." Rani said she still uses the traditional wooden stove to prepare her food because it is "economical". Rakku, who works at her idli shop, said the shop provides temporary employment to her. "I hail from a fisherman family. When we do not go to fishing, I work here," she told ANI. She said that Rani does not insist on money if anyone is not able to pay for the food. "So many people are our daily customers. We do not insist on the money. Even if anyone does not have money, you serve them the food and do not insist for payment," Rakku said. Rani's roadside shop is famous amongst the locals and tourists alike. "In Rameswaram, If you visit any hotel and have food, it will cost you at least Rs 60 but this shop offers food in just Rs 30. The most important thing is even on this age she works and maintains the old methods to prepare the food," Nagendran, a customer, told ANI.

70-year-old Tamil Nadu woman serves idlis to poor for free

 7-feel-long Carcass washed ashore at Rameswaram beach 

<p>Electricity connection at former President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam's alma mater 'Mandapam Panchayat union middle school' in Rameswaram has been cut off by electricity board after the school management failed to pay the electricity bill for two years.</p>

<p>The school authorities, however, said that they stopped paying the electricity bill after the state government took up the responsibility. &nbsp;</p>

<p>''Earlier we used to pay the bill but stopped doing that after state govt took up responsibility for it. Now pending bills are more than Rs 10,000. We contacted the Electricity Board and they have agreed to provide electricity only for 5 more days,'' said village education committee president.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Earlier we used to pay bill but stopped doing that after state govt took up responsibility for it. Now pending bills are more than Rs 10,000. We contacted the Electricity Board and they have agreed to provide electricity only for 5 more days: Village Education Committee President <a href="https://t.co/f70GtBm3SL">pic.twitter.com/f70GtBm3SL</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/986938977423802368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The school authorities, however, said that they stopped paying the electricity bill after the state government took up the responsibility.

Electricity connection at former President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam's alma mater 'Mandapam Panchayat union middle school' in Rameswaram has been cut off by electricity board after the school management failed to pay the electricity bill for two years. The school authorities, however, said that they stopped paying the electricity bill after the state government took up the responsibility. ''Earlier we used to pay the bill but stopped doing that after state govt took up responsibility for it. Now pending bills are more than Rs 10,000. We contacted the Electricity Board and they have agreed to provide electricity only for 5 more days,'' said village education committee president. Earlier we used to pay bill but stopped doing that after state govt took up responsibility for it. Now pending bills are more than Rs 10,000. We contacted the Electricity Board and they have agreed to provide electricity only for 5 more days: Village Education Committee President pic.twitter.com/f70GtBm3SL — ANI (@ANI) April 19, 2018 ×

Power supply to former president Dr APJ Abdul Kalam's alma mater snapped

<p>Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan has invited people to &#39;create a new era&#39; even as he gears up to launch his political party on Wednesday in Madurai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Haasan began his political journey from the house of former President APJ Abdul Kalam. Hours before launching his political party, he visited the residence of Kalam&nbsp;and interacted with his family members.</p>

<p>Haasan was warmly received by the family members of the former President.&nbsp;The actor slightly tweaked his schedule for the day, cancelling his visit to a school, after the local administration reportedly denied him permission to visit it.</p>

<p>The actor will take out a rally from the house of&nbsp;Kalam&nbsp;at Rameswaram, culminating in Madurai where he will address a rally to announce the party&rsquo;s name and launch its flag. According to sources close to the actor Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to attend the rally; Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan and Bihar CM Nitish Kumar too have been invited, however, they could send video messages as they could not reach Madurai.</p>

<p>People in Tamil Nadu are waiting for to know who are the other party key members and whether the actor will announce their names at the meeting in Madurai today. While some source said that the actor will announce the list of office bearers including party&rsquo;s district committees at the rally in Madurai, other reports suggested that the actor likely to follow the path of late chief minister J Jayalalithaa, who was the single power centre in the party she ran until her death and unlikely project anyone. &nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="et">Tamil Nadu: Kamal Haasan visits APJ Abdul Kalam&#39;s house in Rameswaram. <a href="https://t.co/fp10vi4atL">pic.twitter.com/fp10vi4atL</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/966135845685288960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&ldquo;There are intellectuals, activists and anti-corruption groups guiding and advising him, but he is unlikely to project a second leader next to him in the initial stages,&rdquo; reports said quoting a source. The party will be in the line of &nbsp; Aam Aadmi Party and similar anti-corruption movements in Tamil Nadu. The party&#39;s name may not include words such as &lsquo;Dravida&rsquo; or &lsquo;Kazhagam&rsquo;. Some of the final designs selected for the flag are simple ones in two or three colours.&rdquo;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="tl">Tamil Nadu: Kamal Haasan leaves after visiting APJ Abdul Kalam&#39;s house in Rameswaram. <a href="https://t.co/m8NxR8V8he">pic.twitter.com/m8NxR8V8he</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/966141648366440448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Hassan is expected to Ramanathapuram, his hometown, where he will address a gathering that is expected to be of 2,000 or more people</p>

<p>He will meet people at two more places on the way to Madurai, in Paramakudi and Manamadurai. Organisers expect a few hundred people in both places and he may also deliver speeches.</p>

<p>On the eve of the party launch, DMK working president M K Stalin ridiculed the actor&rsquo;s political venture. Taking a veiled dig once again at top actors Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan for their political ambitions, DMK Working President M K Stalin likened them to &#39;glamorous paper flowers&#39; which do not spread fragrance.</p>

<p>&quot;Owing to seasonal changes some flowers may suddenly bloom and later wither. Similarly, in Tamil Nadu&#39;s political arena too glamorous paper flowers may bloom,&quot; he said in an apparent reference to top actors Rajinikanth and Haasan&#39;s political entry.</p>

<p>The Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly, in a letter to party cadres said though &quot;such flowers may bloom, they do not spread fragrance,&quot; which is seen as an indication that the duo could not succeed and shine in politics though they could enter the fray.</p>

<p>Kamal Haasan was quick to retort to Stalin&#39;s jibe, telling reporters at Madurai that &quot;I am not a flower, I am a seed, sow me, I will grow.&quot;</p>

<p>Kamal Haasan, who has been meeting senior politicians in the last one week, including DMK&rsquo;s M Karunanidhi and CPI&rsquo;s R Nallakannu, besides Rajinikanth, has also visited Vijayakanth, the film-star who turned politician in 2005.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Asked why he did not meet any leaders of the ruling AIADMK, Kamal Haasan said he does not like this government. &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t want to meet them.&rdquo;</p>


On the eve of the party launch, DMK working president M K Stalin ridiculed the actor’s political venture.

Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan has invited people to 'create a new era' even as he gears up to launch his political party on Wednesday in Madurai. Haasan began his political journey from the house of former President APJ Abdul Kalam. Hours before launching his political party, he visited the residence of Kalam and interacted with his family members. Haasan was warmly received by the family members of the former President. The actor slightly tweaked his schedule for the day, cancelling his visit to a school, after the local administration reportedly denied him permission to visit it. The actor will take out a rally from the house of Kalam at Rameswaram, culminating in Madurai where he will address a rally to announce the party’s name and launch its flag. According to sources close to the actor Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to attend the rally; Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan and Bihar CM Nitish Kumar too have been invited, however, they could send video messages as they could not reach Madurai. People in Tamil Nadu are waiting for to know who are the other party key members and whether the actor will announce their names at the meeting in Madurai today. While some source said that the actor will announce the list of office bearers including party’s district committees at the rally in Madurai, other reports suggested that the actor likely to follow the path of late chief minister J Jayalalithaa, who was the single power centre in the party she ran until her death and unlikely project anyone. Tamil Nadu: Kamal Haasan visits APJ Abdul Kalam's house in Rameswaram. pic.twitter.com/fp10vi4atL — ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2018 × “There are intellectuals, activists and anti-corruption groups guiding and advising him, but he is unlikely to project a second leader next to him in the initial stages,” reports said quoting a source. The party will be in the line of Aam Aadmi Party and similar anti-corruption movements in Tamil Nadu. The party's name may not include words such as ‘Dravida’ or ‘Kazhagam’. Some of the final designs selected for the flag are simple ones in two or three colours.” Tamil Nadu: Kamal Haasan leaves after visiting APJ Abdul Kalam's house in Rameswaram. pic.twitter.com/m8NxR8V8he — ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2018 × Hassan is expected to Ramanathapuram, his hometown, where he will address a gathering that is expected to be of 2,000 or more people He will meet people at two more places on the way to Madurai, in Paramakudi and Manamadurai. Organisers expect a few hundred people in both places and he may also deliver speeches. On the eve of the party launch, DMK working president M K Stalin ridiculed the actor’s political venture. Taking a veiled dig once again at top actors Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan for their political ambitions, DMK Working President M K Stalin likened them to 'glamorous paper flowers' which do not spread fragrance. "Owing to seasonal changes some flowers may suddenly bloom and later wither. Similarly, in Tamil Nadu's political arena too glamorous paper flowers may bloom," he said in an apparent reference to top actors Rajinikanth and Haasan's political entry. The Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly, in a letter to party cadres said though "such flowers may bloom, they do not spread fragrance," which is seen as an indication that the duo could not succeed and shine in politics though they could enter the fray. Kamal Haasan was quick to retort to Stalin's jibe, telling reporters at Madurai that "I am not a flower, I am a seed, sow me, I will grow." Kamal Haasan, who has been meeting senior politicians in the last one week, including DMK’s M Karunanidhi and CPI’s R Nallakannu, besides Rajinikanth, has also visited Vijayakanth, the film-star who turned politician in 2005. Asked why he did not meet any leaders of the ruling AIADMK, Kamal Haasan said he does not like this government. “I don’t want to meet them.”

Kamal Haasan to launch political party today, invites people to 'create a new era'

<p>Ahead of the launch of his political party on Wednesday, Kamal Haasan will be visiting Rameswaram, the hometown of former president APJ Abdul Kalam.</p>

<p>Addressing the press in Madurai, Haasan said, &quot;Tomorrow I will launch my political party but before that in the morning I will visit Rameswaram. In the evening, I will unfurl party flag and declare the ideas and ideology of my political journey.&quot;</p>

<p>The actor will mark the beginning of his political journey with a journey of Kalam`s hometown where he will also be visiting the APJ Kalam School, the alma mater of the late leader.</p>

<p>However, the Hindu Munnani organisation has objected to the `politicisation of school` and has written to the district collector in this regard.</p>

<p>Haasan aims to change the political scenario of Tamil Nadu, which has lately been in turmoil following the death of chief minister J Jayalalithaa.</p>


The actor will mark the beginning of his political journey with a journey of Kalam`s hometown where he will also be visiting the APJ Kalam School, the alma mater of the late leader

Ahead of the launch of his political party on Wednesday, Kamal Haasan will be visiting Rameswaram, the hometown of former president APJ Abdul Kalam. Addressing the press in Madurai, Haasan said, "Tomorrow I will launch my political party but before that in the morning I will visit Rameswaram. In the evening, I will unfurl party flag and declare the ideas and ideology of my political journey." The actor will mark the beginning of his political journey with a journey of Kalam`s hometown where he will also be visiting the APJ Kalam School, the alma mater of the late leader. However, the Hindu Munnani organisation has objected to the `politicisation of school` and has written to the district collector in this regard. Haasan aims to change the political scenario of Tamil Nadu, which has lately been in turmoil following the death of chief minister J Jayalalithaa.

Kamal Haasan set to launch new party, visits Rameswaram

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