Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday laid the foundation stone, inaugurated, and dedicated multiple development projects worth over Rs 4,900 crore to the nation during a public event in Tamil Nadu’s Tuticorin. In line with his commitment to developing world-class air infrastructure and enhancing connectivity, the Prime Minister inaugurated the New Terminal Building at Tuticorin Airport, developed at a cost of approximately Rs 450 crore, designed to meet the growing aviation demands of the southern region. The Prime Minister undertook a walkthrough of the new terminal building at Tuticorin Airport.&nbsp;Spread across 17,340 square metres, the terminal will be equipped to handle 1,350 passengers during peak hours and 20 lakh passengers annually, with future expansion capacity to accommodate up to 1,800 peak-hour passengers and 25 lakh passengers annually. With 100 per cent LED lighting, energy-efficient electrical and mechanical (E&amp;M) systems, and treated water reuse through an on-site Sewage Treatment Plant, the terminal has been built to achieve a GRIHA-4 sustainability rating. This modern infrastructure is expected to significantly enhance regional air connectivity and stimulate tourism, trade, and investment in southern Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;In the road infrastructure sector, Prime Minister dedicated to the nation two strategically significant highway projects.&nbsp;The first is the 4-laning of the 50 km Sethiyathope-Cholapuram stretch of NH-36, developed at more than Rs 2,350 crore under the Vikravandi-Thanjavur corridor. It includes three bypasses, a 1-km four-lane bridge over the Kollidam River, four major bridges, seven flyovers, and several underpasses, reducing travel time by 45 minutes between Sethiyathope-Cholapuram and boosting connectivity to Delta region's cultural and agricultural hubs. The second project is the 6-laning of the 5.16 km NH-138 Tuticorin Port Road, built at around Rs 200 crore. Featuring underpasses and bridges, it will ease cargo flow, cut logistics costs, and support port-led industrial growth around VO Chidambaranar Port.&nbsp;In a major boost to augment port infrastructure and clean energy initiatives, the Prime Minister inaugurated North Cargo Berth-III with a cargo handling capacity of 6.96 MMTPA at V.O. Chidambaranar Port worth around Rs 285 crore. Prime Minister dedicated three key railway infrastructure projects in southern Tamil Nadu to boost sustainable and efficient connectivity. The electrification of the 90 km Madurai Bodinayakkanur line will promote eco-friendly transport and support tourism and commuting in Madurai and Theni.&nbsp;The Rs 650 crore doubling of the 21 km Nagercoil Town-Kanniyakumari section, part of the Thiruvananthapuram-Kanniyakumari project, will strengthen links between Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Additionally, the doubling of the Aralvaymozhi-Nagercoil Junction (12.87 km) and Tirunelveli-Melappalayam (3.6 km) sections will reduce travel time on major southern routes like Chennai-Kanyakumari and enhance regional economic integration by improving passenger and freight capacity.&nbsp;

PM Modi dedicated three key railway infrastructure projects in southern Tamil Nadu to boost sustainable and efficient connectivity. The electrification of the 90km Madurai Bodinayakkanur line will promote eco-friendly transport and support tourism and commuting in Madurai and Theni. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday laid the foundation stone, inaugurated, and dedicated multiple development projects worth over Rs 4,900 crore to the nation during a public event in Tamil Nadu’s Tuticorin. In line with his commitment to developing world-class air infrastructure and enhancing connectivity, the Prime Minister inaugurated the New Terminal Building at Tuticorin Airport, developed at a cost of approximately Rs 450 crore, designed to meet the growing aviation demands of the southern region. The Prime Minister undertook a walkthrough of the new terminal building at Tuticorin Airport. Spread across 17,340 square metres, the terminal will be equipped to handle 1,350 passengers during peak hours and 20 lakh passengers annually, with future expansion capacity to accommodate up to 1,800 peak-hour passengers and 25 lakh passengers annually. With 100 per cent LED lighting, energy-efficient electrical and mechanical (E&M) systems, and treated water reuse through an on-site Sewage Treatment Plant, the terminal has been built to achieve a GRIHA-4 sustainability rating. This modern infrastructure is expected to significantly enhance regional air connectivity and stimulate tourism, trade, and investment in southern Tamil Nadu. In the road infrastructure sector, Prime Minister dedicated to the nation two strategically significant highway projects. The first is the 4-laning of the 50 km Sethiyathope-Cholapuram stretch of NH-36, developed at more than Rs 2,350 crore under the Vikravandi-Thanjavur corridor. It includes three bypasses, a 1-km four-lane bridge over the Kollidam River, four major bridges, seven flyovers, and several underpasses, reducing travel time by 45 minutes between Sethiyathope-Cholapuram and boosting connectivity to Delta region's cultural and agricultural hubs. The second project is the 6-laning of the 5.16 km NH-138 Tuticorin Port Road, built at around Rs 200 crore. Featuring underpasses and bridges, it will ease cargo flow, cut logistics costs, and support port-led industrial growth around VO Chidambaranar Port. In a major boost to augment port infrastructure and clean energy initiatives, the Prime Minister inaugurated North Cargo Berth-III with a cargo handling capacity of 6.96 MMTPA at V.O. Chidambaranar Port worth around Rs 285 crore. Prime Minister dedicated three key railway infrastructure projects in southern Tamil Nadu to boost sustainable and efficient connectivity. The electrification of the 90 km Madurai Bodinayakkanur line will promote eco-friendly transport and support tourism and commuting in Madurai and Theni. The Rs 650 crore doubling of the 21 km Nagercoil Town-Kanniyakumari section, part of the Thiruvananthapuram-Kanniyakumari project, will strengthen links between Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Additionally, the doubling of the Aralvaymozhi-Nagercoil Junction (12.87 km) and Tirunelveli-Melappalayam (3.6 km) sections will reduce travel time on major southern routes like Chennai-Kanyakumari and enhance regional economic integration by improving passenger and freight capacity.

PM Modi dedicated three key railway infrastructure projects in southern Tamil Nadu to boost sustainable and efficient connectivity. The electrification of the 90km Madurai Bodinayakkanur line will promote eco-friendly transport and support tourism and commuting in Madurai and Theni.&nbsp;

PM Modi inaugurates new terminal of Thoothukudi airport among projects worth over Rs 4,900 crore

In India's Tamil Nadu on Tuesday (Jul 8), two school students were killed after their school bus was hit by a speeding train this morning, around 7:45 am, said police officials from Cuddalore district . The school bus carrying four students attempted to cross the Railway level crossing gate when it was hit by Train No. 56813. Based on preliminary information, railway authorities say that the bus driver insisted on allowing the vehicle to pass through the railway gate as the railway gatekeeper proceeded to close it.&nbsp;The bus driver and two students are undergoing treatment at the Cuddalore Government Hospital, officials said. Railway doctors are also monitoring the victims, and if required, they would be moved to the JIPMER hospital in the adjoining Puducherry Union territory, it is said.&nbsp;A committee of officers from the safety, operation and engineering branches are investigating the incident, said a railway statement. A railway relief train with a medical relief van has been dispatched to the site. The Divisional Railway Manager(DRM) and Branch Officers are proceeding to the spot, it was added.&nbsp;Railway authorities have revealed that their gatekeeper opened the gate on the insistence of the bus driver, who wished to reach the school early. "He should not have opened the gate as per the safety rules of Railway train operations. As gatekeeper violated safety rules, he has been suspended and process is initiated to remove from service as per procedure," Southern Railway said.&nbsp;Railways have announced an ex gratia of Rs.5 lakh to the bereaved families, Rs.2.5 lakh to kin of those grievously injured and Rs.50,000 for others.&nbsp;(This is a developing story)

The bus driver and two students are undergoing treatment at the Cuddalore Government Hospital, officials said. Railway doctors are also monitoring the victims, and if required, they would be moved to the JIPMER hospital in the adjoining Puducherry Union territory, it is said. 

In India's Tamil Nadu on Tuesday (Jul 8), two school students were killed after their school bus was hit by a speeding train this morning, around 7:45 am, said police officials from Cuddalore district . The school bus carrying four students attempted to cross the Railway level crossing gate when it was hit by Train No. 56813. Based on preliminary information, railway authorities say that the bus driver insisted on allowing the vehicle to pass through the railway gate as the railway gatekeeper proceeded to close it. The bus driver and two students are undergoing treatment at the Cuddalore Government Hospital, officials said. Railway doctors are also monitoring the victims, and if required, they would be moved to the JIPMER hospital in the adjoining Puducherry Union territory, it is said. A committee of officers from the safety, operation and engineering branches are investigating the incident, said a railway statement. A railway relief train with a medical relief van has been dispatched to the site. The Divisional Railway Manager(DRM) and Branch Officers are proceeding to the spot, it was added. Railway authorities have revealed that their gatekeeper opened the gate on the insistence of the bus driver, who wished to reach the school early. "He should not have opened the gate as per the safety rules of Railway train operations. As gatekeeper violated safety rules, he has been suspended and process is initiated to remove from service as per procedure," Southern Railway said. Railways have announced an ex gratia of Rs.5 lakh to the bereaved families, Rs.2.5 lakh to kin of those grievously injured and Rs.50,000 for others. (This is a developing story)

The bus driver and two students are undergoing treatment at the Cuddalore Government Hospital, officials said. Railway doctors are also monitoring the victims, and if required, they would be moved to the JIPMER hospital in the adjoining Puducherry Union territory, it is said.&nbsp;

2 dead, 3 injured as train hits school bus in Cudalore, Tamil Nadu

Actor-politician Vijay reaffirmed his fledgling political party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK)’s stance of not allying with either the BJP, which is ruling at the Centre, or the DMK, which is ruling Tamil Nadu. “Our party is firm that we will not have an overt or covert alliance with divisive forces. If our party forms an alliance, we will lead it. Our alliance will oppose both DMK and BJP,” said Vijay, at his political outfit’s executive committee meeting. The assembly polls in the Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu are less than 10 months away, and so far Vijay’s party has not firmed up any electoral alliance. An actor for three decades, Vijay is banking on his fan following and the young voters to propel his political journey.&nbsp;In April this year, the state opposition party AIADMK and the BJP, which rules at the Centre, announced their alliance and vowed to take on the DMK-led alliance, which is looking to win a second term in power.&nbsp;In 2021, then Leader of Opposition MK Stalin led the DMK to victory, ousting the AIADMK. This would be the second election for MK Stalin, where he is contesting for the Chief Minister’s post. Under Stalin’s leadership, the DMK-led alliance swept the 2019 and 2024 Lok Sabha polls in Tamil Nadu, while also winning the 2021 Assembly poll with a thumping majority.&nbsp;While announcing his party resolutions, Vijay accused the BJP of dividing the people of India on religious lines and promoting differences. He expressed confidently that BJP’s tactics would succeed anywhere, but not in Tamil Nadu, which he said is a land of social justice and brotherhood. Vijay added that BJP will not succeed in its attempts to denigrate legacy leaders who have been part of Tamil Nadu’s political landscape. “We are not like DMK or AIADMK that would tie up with the BJP for political gains and selfish reasons,” Vijay stated firmly, affirming his party’s political stance.&nbsp;Training his guns on Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK president MK Stalin, Vijay read out the contents of a letter which he said he wrote to Stalin, regarding the controversy and farmers’ protests over the proposed Parandur airport that is meant to come up near Chennai. “As residents and farmers of Parandur have been protesting against the proposed airport, I went and met them on behalf of my party TVK. The very next day after my meeting, your Government issued a statement that the airport would be established without affecting the 1,000 families residing there. Are 1,000 families and 15,000 people so insignificant for you? Aren’t they our people? Are you concerned about people when you are in the opposition?,” Vijay questioned.&nbsp;&nbsp;“What is the necessity to build an airport after destroying hundreds of acres of agricultural land, massive water bodies, thousands of homes,” Vijay asked in the letter. The actor-politician also quoted the civil aviation minister as having said that Stalin’s DMK government chose the specific Parandur site for the proposed airport. Vijay also asked why the Chief Minister hadn’t met the protesting residents of Parandur. Further, Vijay urged MK Stalin to meet the protesters and farmers of Parandur, and assure them that an airport would not be built there.&nbsp;“If you don’t meet them and wish to move on from this issue, I myself will bring the protesters (Parandur residents and farmers) to the Secretariat and meet you there. I believe you won’t create such a situation, but if such a situation arises, I am ready to face it.”&nbsp;We are not against development and airport, only the chosen site is wrong, Vijay said, quoting aviation experts. He also raised concerns that building the entire airport infrastructure on waterbodies would end up flooding Chennai city during the monsoon.

The assembly polls in the Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu are less than 10 months away, and so far Vijay’s party has not firmed up any electoral alliance. An actor for three decades, Vijay is banking on his fan following and the young voters to propel his political journey.

Actor-politician Vijay reaffirmed his fledgling political party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK)’s stance of not allying with either the BJP, which is ruling at the Centre, or the DMK, which is ruling Tamil Nadu. “Our party is firm that we will not have an overt or covert alliance with divisive forces. If our party forms an alliance, we will lead it. Our alliance will oppose both DMK and BJP,” said Vijay, at his political outfit’s executive committee meeting. The assembly polls in the Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu are less than 10 months away, and so far Vijay’s party has not firmed up any electoral alliance. An actor for three decades, Vijay is banking on his fan following and the young voters to propel his political journey. In April this year, the state opposition party AIADMK and the BJP, which rules at the Centre, announced their alliance and vowed to take on the DMK-led alliance, which is looking to win a second term in power. In 2021, then Leader of Opposition MK Stalin led the DMK to victory, ousting the AIADMK. This would be the second election for MK Stalin, where he is contesting for the Chief Minister’s post. Under Stalin’s leadership, the DMK-led alliance swept the 2019 and 2024 Lok Sabha polls in Tamil Nadu, while also winning the 2021 Assembly poll with a thumping majority. While announcing his party resolutions, Vijay accused the BJP of dividing the people of India on religious lines and promoting differences. He expressed confidently that BJP’s tactics would succeed anywhere, but not in Tamil Nadu, which he said is a land of social justice and brotherhood. Vijay added that BJP will not succeed in its attempts to denigrate legacy leaders who have been part of Tamil Nadu’s political landscape. “We are not like DMK or AIADMK that would tie up with the BJP for political gains and selfish reasons,” Vijay stated firmly, affirming his party’s political stance. Training his guns on Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK president MK Stalin, Vijay read out the contents of a letter which he said he wrote to Stalin, regarding the controversy and farmers’ protests over the proposed Parandur airport that is meant to come up near Chennai. “As residents and farmers of Parandur have been protesting against the proposed airport, I went and met them on behalf of my party TVK. The very next day after my meeting, your Government issued a statement that the airport would be established without affecting the 1,000 families residing there. Are 1,000 families and 15,000 people so insignificant for you? Aren’t they our people? Are you concerned about people when you are in the opposition?,” Vijay questioned. “What is the necessity to build an airport after destroying hundreds of acres of agricultural land, massive water bodies, thousands of homes,” Vijay asked in the letter. The actor-politician also quoted the civil aviation minister as having said that Stalin’s DMK government chose the specific Parandur site for the proposed airport. Vijay also asked why the Chief Minister hadn’t met the protesting residents of Parandur. Further, Vijay urged MK Stalin to meet the protesters and farmers of Parandur, and assure them that an airport would not be built there. “If you don’t meet them and wish to move on from this issue, I myself will bring the protesters (Parandur residents and farmers) to the Secretariat and meet you there. I believe you won’t create such a situation, but if such a situation arises, I am ready to face it.” We are not against development and airport, only the chosen site is wrong, Vijay said, quoting aviation experts. He also raised concerns that building the entire airport infrastructure on waterbodies would end up flooding Chennai city during the monsoon.

The assembly polls in the Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu are less than 10 months away, and so far Vijay’s party has not firmed up any electoral alliance. An actor for three decades, Vijay is banking on his fan following and the young voters to propel his political journey.

Actor-politician Vijay rules out alliance with DMK or BJP

Tata to build Jaguar Land Rover cars in Tamil Nadu starting from 2026Rs 9,000-crore plan brings luxury and EVs under one roof. Tata Motors will invest Rs 9,000 crore over five years to set up a new plant at Ranipet, Tamil Nadu, where it will assemble Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) SUVs from 2026. The factory’s first products will be Range Rover Evoque and Range Rover Velar, built from completely knocked-down (CKD) kits, with an initial capacity of 30,000 units a year. As reported by ET.“This gives us a scalable, future-ready base as JLR expands in India,” said Tata Group CFO P B Balaji. Operations now handled in Pune will shift to the new site.<h2>Avinya Premium EVs are delayed, but will share the same site</h2>The Ranipet complex is also tipped to host Avinya, Tata’s forthcoming global electric vehicle brand. Launch has slipped to 2026 because of “engineering blind spots”, according to Tata Passenger Vehicles MD Shailesh Chandra. Avinya cars will carry no visible Tata badge and will target export markets.Chandra also criticised state incentives that favour hybrids over fully electric cars, warning they “delay wider EV adoption”. Even so, Tata’s other battery models, including Harrier EV and Sierra EV, remain on schedule.<h2>Trade headwinds shape global strategy</h2>Rising US tariffs on UK-built vehicles have hit JLR exports, but Balaji ruled out an American factory, saying Tata “will not overextend”. Instead, JLR will focus on Europe, the Middle East and home demand.Supply chain resilience remains a priority after the 2023 chip shortage. Tata says it has months of rare-earth stock and is sourcing new suppliers outside China.&nbsp;JLR is also looking to strengthen its localisation strategy. With the rising input costs and fluctuating global demand, the move to assemble vehicles in India is seen as both a cost-saving step and a way to serve local customers better. This shift is expected to reduce delivery times and improve component sourcing within the country.&nbsp;Industry experts see this as a major milestone for India’s automobile sector, as Tata becomes one of the few firms to assemble high-end luxury models and electric vehicles under one integrated hub. As India moves towards clean mobility, the project highlights Tata’s commitment to sustainability, domestic manufacturing, and global competitiveness.

Tata Motors will invest Rs 9,000 crore in Ranipet, Tamil Nadu, to build JLR SUVs from 2026. The new plant will produce Range Rover Evoque, Velar, and Avinya EVs. The move boosts local manufacturing and sustainability and reduces delivery times.

Tata to build Jaguar Land Rover cars in Tamil Nadu starting from 2026 Rs 9,000-crore plan brings luxury and EVs under one roof. Tata Motors will invest Rs 9,000 crore over five years to set up a new plant at Ranipet, Tamil Nadu, where it will assemble Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) SUVs from 2026. The factory’s first products will be Range Rover Evoque and Range Rover Velar, built from completely knocked-down (CKD) kits, with an initial capacity of 30,000 units a year. As reported by ET. “This gives us a scalable, future-ready base as JLR expands in India,” said Tata Group CFO P B Balaji. Operations now handled in Pune will shift to the new site. Avinya Premium EVs are delayed, but will share the same site The Ranipet complex is also tipped to host Avinya, Tata’s forthcoming global electric vehicle brand. Launch has slipped to 2026 because of “engineering blind spots”, according to Tata Passenger Vehicles MD Shailesh Chandra. Avinya cars will carry no visible Tata badge and will target export markets. Chandra also criticised state incentives that favour hybrids over fully electric cars, warning they “delay wider EV adoption”. Even so, Tata’s other battery models, including Harrier EV and Sierra EV, remain on schedule. Trade headwinds shape global strategy Rising US tariffs on UK-built vehicles have hit JLR exports, but Balaji ruled out an American factory, saying Tata “will not overextend”. Instead, JLR will focus on Europe, the Middle East and home demand. Supply chain resilience remains a priority after the 2023 chip shortage. Tata says it has months of rare-earth stock and is sourcing new suppliers outside China. JLR is also looking to strengthen its localisation strategy. With the rising input costs and fluctuating global demand, the move to assemble vehicles in India is seen as both a cost-saving step and a way to serve local customers better. This shift is expected to reduce delivery times and improve component sourcing within the country. Industry experts see this as a major milestone for India’s automobile sector, as Tata becomes one of the few firms to assemble high-end luxury models and electric vehicles under one integrated hub. As India moves towards clean mobility, the project highlights Tata’s commitment to sustainability, domestic manufacturing, and global competitiveness.

Tata Motors will invest Rs 9,000 crore in Ranipet, Tamil Nadu, to build JLR SUVs from 2026. The new plant will produce Range Rover Evoque, Velar, and Avinya EVs. The move boosts local manufacturing and sustainability and reduces delivery times.

Tata to assemble Jaguar Land Rover cars in Tamil Nadu starting in 2026

The Indian Government has announced a decision to further extend its financial assistance to the ongoing passenger ferry service between Nagapattinan in the Southern Indian state of&nbsp; Tamil Nadu and Kankesanthurai in the island nation of&nbsp;Sri Lanka. According to the Indian High Commission in Colombo, Sri Lanka, this assistance will be extended for another year and is in line with India's commitment towards enhancing regional connectivity and historic people-to-people ties between the two nations.&nbsp;The financial support is being extended under the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) mechanism, amounting to over LKR 300 million annually(approx $1mn). It is aimed at ensuring the affordability and operational sustainability of the service by covering key logistical and operational costs, on terms similar to the previous year.Since its resumption in&nbsp;August 2024, the four-hour-long ride via the Palk Straits has facilitated the movement of over 15,000 passengers, reinforcing cultural, economic, and social exchanges between India and the neighbouring island nation. This ferry service stands as a key milestone in revitalising maritime connectivity between India and Sri Lanka. Notably, the ferry ticket cost is also considerably more affordable than flight tickets between Chennai, Tamil Nadu and Jaffna, Sri Lanka.The continuation of the financial support for the ferry service also aligns with the shared vision for enhanced maritime connectivity, as reaffirmed during the visit of the Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake's India visit in&nbsp;December 2024, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Sri Lanka visit in&nbsp;April 2025.Future plans include the exploration of additional routes and services that will further expand connectivity and economic collaboration, said the Indian High Commission in Colombo.&nbsp;

India extends financial support for the Nagapattinam-Kankesanthurai passenger ferry service for another year under the Viability Gap Funding scheme, reinforcing affordable regional connectivity, cultural ties, and maritime collaboration with Sri Lanka

The Indian Government has announced a decision to further extend its financial assistance to the ongoing passenger ferry service between Nagapattinan in the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu and Kankesanthurai in the island nation of Sri Lanka. According to the Indian High Commission in Colombo, Sri Lanka, this assistance will be extended for another year and is in line with India's commitment towards enhancing regional connectivity and historic people-to-people ties between the two nations. The financial support is being extended under the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) mechanism, amounting to over LKR 300 million annually(approx $1mn). It is aimed at ensuring the affordability and operational sustainability of the service by covering key logistical and operational costs, on terms similar to the previous year. Since its resumption in August 2024, the four-hour-long ride via the Palk Straits has facilitated the movement of over 15,000 passengers, reinforcing cultural, economic, and social exchanges between India and the neighbouring island nation. This ferry service stands as a key milestone in revitalising maritime connectivity between India and Sri Lanka. Notably, the ferry ticket cost is also considerably more affordable than flight tickets between Chennai, Tamil Nadu and Jaffna, Sri Lanka. The continuation of the financial support for the ferry service also aligns with the shared vision for enhanced maritime connectivity, as reaffirmed during the visit of the Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake's India visit in December 2024, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Sri Lanka visit in April 2025. Future plans include the exploration of additional routes and services that will further expand connectivity and economic collaboration, said the Indian High Commission in Colombo.

India extends financial support for the Nagapattinam-Kankesanthurai passenger ferry service for another year under the Viability Gap Funding scheme, reinforcing affordable regional connectivity, cultural ties, and maritime collaboration with Sri Lanka

India continues financial assistance for Tamil Nadu- Sri Lanka ferry service

Union Home Minister Amit Shah hailed Tamil as one of the greatest languages of India and offered an apology for not knowing it and being unable to convey his message in the language.&nbsp;Addressing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers in Madurai on Sunday, Shah began his speech by apologising for not being able to speak “one of the greatest languages of India”.&nbsp;“I apologise to the party workers of Tamil Nadu as I cannot talk to them in one of the greatest languages of India, Tamil,” Shah said.&nbsp;<h2>‘DMK will be defeated in 2026 polls, NDA would form government’</h2>&nbsp;He also assured the party workers that the DMK will be defeated in 2026 polls and an NDA government of the BJP-AIADMK would form.&nbsp;“The NDA government of the BJP-AIADMK alliance will be formed here in 2026. I live in Delhi, but my ears are always on Tamil Nadu. MK Stalin says that Amit Shah cannot defeat DMK. He is right. It’s not me, but the people of Tamil Nadu will defeat you,” he said.&nbsp;The hailing of Tamil by Shah comes at a time when the MK Stalin-led state government is accusing the Centre of imposing Hindi through the proposed three-language formula under the National Education Policy (NEP).&nbsp;The NEP issue sparked an intense row between the Centre and the Tamil Nadu government in March this year.Chief Minister MK Stalin sparred with Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the implementation of NEP in the state, even alleging that the Centre was holding funds as a form of blackmail.&nbsp;<h2>Union govt sowing seeds of another language war, says Stalin</h2>&nbsp;Stalin said that the Union government was sowing the seeds of another language war. Language has long been an emotive issue for the state that was rocked by anti-Hindi agitation in the 1960s. &nbsp;Pradhan stressed that the NEP “does not advocate the imposition of any language” on states and upholds the principle of linguistic freedom.He appealed to Stalin to rise above political differences and not politicise education. Earlier, Shah offered prayers at the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai.

<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> | Madurai, Tamil Nadu | Union Home Minister Amit Shah says, &quot;...I apologise to the party workers of Tamil Nadu as I cannot talk to them in one of the greatest languages of India, Tamil...&quot; <a href="https://t.co/qUgd2a4S5s">pic.twitter.com/qUgd2a4S5s</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1931678599817421253?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The hailing of Tamil by Shah comes at a time when the MK Stalin-led state government is accusing the Centre of imposing Hindi through the proposed three-language formula under the National Education Policy (NEP).

Union Home Minister Amit Shah hailed Tamil as one of the greatest languages of India and offered an apology for not knowing it and being unable to convey his message in the language. Addressing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers in Madurai on Sunday, Shah began his speech by apologising for not being able to speak “one of the greatest languages of India”. “I apologise to the party workers of Tamil Nadu as I cannot talk to them in one of the greatest languages of India, Tamil,” Shah said. ‘DMK will be defeated in 2026 polls, NDA would form government’ He also assured the party workers that the DMK will be defeated in 2026 polls and an NDA government of the BJP-AIADMK would form. “The NDA government of the BJP-AIADMK alliance will be formed here in 2026. I live in Delhi, but my ears are always on Tamil Nadu. MK Stalin says that Amit Shah cannot defeat DMK. He is right. It’s not me, but the people of Tamil Nadu will defeat you,” he said. The hailing of Tamil by Shah comes at a time when the MK Stalin-led state government is accusing the Centre of imposing Hindi through the proposed three-language formula under the National Education Policy (NEP). The NEP issue sparked an intense row between the Centre and the Tamil Nadu government in March this year. Chief Minister MK Stalin sparred with Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the implementation of NEP in the state, even alleging that the Centre was holding funds as a form of blackmail. Union govt sowing seeds of another language war, says Stalin Stalin said that the Union government was sowing the seeds of another language war. Language has long been an emotive issue for the state that was rocked by anti-Hindi agitation in the 1960s. Pradhan stressed that the NEP “does not advocate the imposition of any language” on states and upholds the principle of linguistic freedom. He appealed to Stalin to rise above political differences and not politicise education. Earlier, Shah offered prayers at the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai.

The hailing of Tamil by Shah comes at a time when the MK Stalin-led state government is accusing the Centre of imposing Hindi through the proposed three-language formula under the National Education Policy (NEP).

‘Tamil one of the greatest languages of India,’ says Amit Shah, regrets not knowing it

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin inaugurated the Rs 300 crore (approx. $34 million) AI-based robotic machine parts manufacturing facility of German firm Agile Robotics, near the southern Indian city of Chennai. The German firm describes itself as a provider of next-generation automation solutions. The facility near Chennai provides employment to 300 local engineers and technicians.&nbsp;“We are a German firm driving new industry solutions using AI and Robotics to create the next-gen solutions. Ours is a seven-year-old firm, founded by people from the German Aerospace Institute. We are going to invest heavily here and employ 300 people,” said Rory Sexton, a Board member of Agile Robots.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Chief Minister also inaugurated an Air Separation facility of the Indo-Italian joint venture firm SOL India Private Ltd. at the Ranipet SIPCOT Industrial Park. The firm is involved in the manufacture of industrial and medical oxygen. During the Global Investors Meet hosted by Tamil Nadu, this firm had committed to a cumulative investment of Rs. 300 crore ($34 million). The factory has been set up in line with that commitment.&nbsp;Both inaugurations were done by the chief minister via virtual mode from the State Secretariat in Chennai. He was accompanied by State Industries Minister TRB Rajaa, government officials, and representatives from the respective firms.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tamil Nadu is the second largest state economy in India and is a leading state in manufacturing and exports in various sectors.&nbsp;The Indian Economic Survey for 2024-25 has praised the Tamil Nadu government for its performance in attracting investments and creating a large number of jobs, especially for women. For 2024-25, Tamil Nadu is ranked first in India with an economic growth of 9.69% in 2024-25.

German firm Agile Robotics describes itself as a provider of next-generation automation solutions. Its AI-based robotic machine parts manufacturing facility near the southern Indian city of Chennai provides employment to 300 local engineers and technicians.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin inaugurated the Rs 300 crore (approx. $34 million) AI-based robotic machine parts manufacturing facility of German firm Agile Robotics, near the southern Indian city of Chennai. The German firm describes itself as a provider of next-generation automation solutions. The facility near Chennai provides employment to 300 local engineers and technicians. “We are a German firm driving new industry solutions using AI and Robotics to create the next-gen solutions. Ours is a seven-year-old firm, founded by people from the German Aerospace Institute. We are going to invest heavily here and employ 300 people,” said Rory Sexton, a Board member of Agile Robots. The Chief Minister also inaugurated an Air Separation facility of the Indo-Italian joint venture firm SOL India Private Ltd. at the Ranipet SIPCOT Industrial Park. The firm is involved in the manufacture of industrial and medical oxygen. During the Global Investors Meet hosted by Tamil Nadu, this firm had committed to a cumulative investment of Rs. 300 crore ($34 million). The factory has been set up in line with that commitment. Both inaugurations were done by the chief minister via virtual mode from the State Secretariat in Chennai. He was accompanied by State Industries Minister TRB Rajaa, government officials, and representatives from the respective firms. Tamil Nadu is the second largest state economy in India and is a leading state in manufacturing and exports in various sectors. The Indian Economic Survey for 2024-25 has praised the Tamil Nadu government for its performance in attracting investments and creating a large number of jobs, especially for women. For 2024-25, Tamil Nadu is ranked first in India with an economic growth of 9.69% in 2024-25.

German firm Agile Robotics describes itself as a provider of next-generation automation solutions. Its AI-based robotic machine parts manufacturing facility near the southern Indian city of Chennai provides employment to 300 local engineers and technicians.

European firms invest $68mn in Tamil Nadu; CM Stalin inaugurates factories

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

Kamal Haasan's upcoming starrer Thug Life, scheduled to release on June 5 this year might have a chance of gaining profit in Tamil Nadu after the government has decided to slash the prices of movie tickets. This move comes after the veteran actor had appealed citing the struggles in the film industry.&nbsp;

<h2>Key details of Tamil Nadu reducing prices of movie tickets</h2>

Film Employees Federation of South India has expressed their gratitude to the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, MK Stalin, Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, and Minister for Tamil Development and Information Thiru MP Saminathan.

<h2>Key details of Tamil Nadu reducing prices of movie tickets</h2>Film Employees Federation of South India has expressed their gratitude to the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, MK Stalin, Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, and Minister for Tamil Development and Information Thiru MP Saminathan.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/karnataka-minister-warns-that-all-kamal-haasan-films-will-be-banned-in-the-state-unless-the-actor-apologises-1748661824198">Karnataka Minister warns that all Kamal Haasan films will be banned in the state unless the actor apologises</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">CINEMA TICKET PRICE REDUCED IN TAMIL NADU !! On <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KamalHaasan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KamalHaasan</a> &#39;s request, the Local Body Entertainment Tax (LBET) levied on films has been reduced from 8% to 4% <a href="https://t.co/PBflYuPlRt">pic.twitter.com/PBflYuPlRt</a>&mdash; Quality Pixels (@Quality_Pixels) <a href="https://twitter.com/Quality_Pixels/status/1928432515758387567?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kamal-haasan-s-thug-life-will-not-release-in-karnataka-amid-kannada-tamil-language-row-1748615770805">Kamal Haasan’s Thug Life will NOT release in Karnataka amid Kannada-Tamil language row</a>&nbsp;As per the reduced rates for new Tamil Films, a local body tax of 4 %will be given which was earlier at 8.6%. The move is expected that ticket reduced might get in more number of people at cinemas. Moreover, this would also make changes to the ticket pricing and the profit margin for stakeholders as well.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kamal-haasan-on-kannada-tamil-language-row-i-won-t-apologise-if-i-am-not-wrong-1748595637157">Kamal Haasan on Kannada-Tamil language row: I won’t apologise if I am not wrong</a><h2>Why Kamal Haasan starrer Thug Life won't release in Karnataka?</h2>Recently, at the audio launch of Thug Life, Kamal Haasan made a statement, 'Kannada is born out of Tamil, which has caused widespread backlash and disappointment with many demanding an apology from the star.&nbsp;The KFCC representative told to media that they had decided to ban the film. The film body member also expressed support and solidarity with Rakshana Vedika and other pro-Kannada organisations for their demands. However, Kamal Haasan had said that his remarks were made out of love.&nbsp;Following the complaint, the film chamber gave the actor 24 hours to apologize and announced that the film would be banned if he failed to tender an apology. For the unversed, Thug Life is about Kamal Haasan's early days as a gangster, his strong bond with his son, and how they eventually turn on each other. The film boasts an ensemble star cast that includes Silambarasan STR, Trisha Krishnan, Sanya Malhotra, Pankaj Tripathi, and Ali Fazal.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/shiva-rajkumar-speaks-up-in-defence-of-kamal-haasan-amid-kannada-language-row-1748509674177">Shiva Rajkumar speaks up in defence of Kamal Haasan amid Kannada language row</a>&nbsp;The script for the film was co-written by Mani Ratnam and Kamal Haasan. The music for the movie will be composed by two-time Oscar winner A. R. Rahman. Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam last worked together on the critically acclaimed 1984 gangster drama Nayakan. The movie won three National Awards, including Best Actor for Kamal Haasan. &nbsp;

Tamil Nadu has reduced the movie ticket prices. This move comes after Kamal Haasan had appealed citing struggles in the film industry.

Kamal Haasan's upcoming starrer Thug Life, scheduled to release on June 5 this year might have a chance of gaining profit in Tamil Nadu after the government has decided to slash the prices of movie tickets. This move comes after the veteran actor had appealed citing the struggles in the film industry.

Tamil Nadu has reduced the movie ticket prices. This move comes after Kamal Haasan had appealed citing struggles in the film industry.

Ahead of Kamal Haasan's Thug Life release, Tamil Nadu reduces ticket prices; Key details

In a surprising incident at Naduvattam Police Station in Tamil Nadu's Nilgiris, a leopard casually strolled through the premises, captured on CCTV footage.

Caught On Camera: Leopard Strolls Through Police Station In Tamil Nadu, India

The government in the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu approved its Space Industrial Policy, positioning the state as a hub for space innovation, high-value manufacturing and tech-driven job creation.

India: Tamil Nadu unveils Space Industrial Policy 2025, eyes ₹10,000 crore investment and jobs

Ahead of the Tamil New Year, the celestial wedding of Lord Ram and Sita was performed as part of the celebrations. And as per Hindu mythology, Lord Ram tied the knot with Sita on the full moon day of the last month on the Tamil calendar. Watch in for more details!

Tamil Nadu: 'Thirukalyanam' celebrated with fervour; celestial wedding rituals performed by priests

#GRAVITAS | The South Indian state of Tamil Nadu has achieved the highest real economic growth rate in India for 2024-25, outperforming other states in the country. The state grew at 9.69% which is the best figure in the country and the highest for Tamil Nadu in the past 10 years. Watch this video to find out more

Tamil Nadu achieves record 9.69% economic growth in 2024-25

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday inaugurated the 2.08 km New Pamban Bridge - the country's first vertical-lift sea bridge - in Tamil Nadu on the occasion of Ram Navami.

India: PM Modi's historic bridge inauguration in Rameshwaram post Sri Lanka visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday targeted Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin during the ongoing language debate, remarking that while he often receives letters from leaders in the state, none of them are signed in Tamil. He added that if they genuinely take pride in their language, they should at least sign their names in Tamil.

Language row: PM Modi takes a swipe at Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin

India: PM Modi inaugurates Pamban bridge in Rameshwaram

In India, a fresh political showdown is unfolding between the ruling party and the opposition over the issue of redrawing legislative constituencies. Taking the lead on this issue is the ruling DMK in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, which hosted a meeting of like-minded parties. Watch in for more details!

India: Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin chairs anti-delimitation meet

A large flock of flamingos have arrived in coastal areas of Tuticorin in Tamil Nadu. Attracted by the brackish water bodies and salt pans that provide a suitable environment for these migratory birds, the birds, known for their striking pink plumage, are here to breed and feed, taking advantage of the region's rich resources.

India: Large Flock Of Flamingos Arrive In Coastal Areas Of Tamil Nadu's Thoothukudi

Further escalating the row with the NDA-led Centre, the DMK government in Tamil Nadu on Thursday released the logo for its budget for the year 2025-26, which replaced the Indian Rupee symbol with a Tamil letter. TN Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu is scheduled to table the budget for 2025-26 on Friday. Now, Andhra Pradesh deputy CM is questioning the Tamil Nadu Government for dubbing Tamil movies in Hindi for revenue. Watch to know more!

India: Andhra Pradesh deputy CM Kalyan questions Tamil Nadu's stance on Hindi

Further escalating the row with the NDA-led Centre, the DMK government in Tamil Nadu on Thursday released the logo for its budget for the year 2025-26, which replaced the Indian Rupee symbol with a Tamil letter. Watch this report for more details!

Rupee Symbol Row: Tamil Nadu govt replaces Rupee symbol in state budget logo

A major political clash has erupted between the BJP and DMK over the issue of Hindi imposition in Tamil Nadu. Union Minister accused the DMK of ruining students' futures, while Chief Minister Stalin fired back, calling it an act of "entitled bigots." The debate has intensified in Parliament, fueling tensions between the two parties.

India language row: DMK changes Rupee symbol on budget logo

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin dubbed the National Education Policy (NEP) a “Hindutva policy” aimed at promoting Hindi, rather than focusing on India’s overall development.

Tamil Nadu CM Stalin: NEP aimed at promoting Hindi

Tamil Nadu CM Stalin terms NEP a Hindutva policy

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan called Tamil Nadu government 'dishonest' and accused it of 'ruining the future of the students' in the state. Watch this report for more details!

DMK ruining future of students of Tamil Nadu: Union Education Minister

BJP vs DMK: Heated clash over Hindi imposition in Tamil Nadu

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Thoothukudi as heavy rains lash parts of Tamil Nadu and Kerala due to cyclonic circulations. Several districts, including Kanyakumari, Madurai, and Salem, are expected to receive more rainfall, impacting daily life and industries like salt production.

Tamil Nadu, Kerala experience rains due to cyclonic circulations

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an &lsquo;orange alert&rsquo; for heavy rainfall in the Thoothukudi district of Tamil Nadu on March 12 amid downpours over the last few days.
The unseasonal showers have severely impacted the salt production in the region, which had resumed only a few days ago. Incessant rainfall over the past two days has brought the operations to a halt, impacting local producers.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-cm-stalin-urges-newlywed-couples-to-give-birth-immediately-amid-delimitation-concerns-8774235">Tamil Nadu CM Stalin urges newlywed couples to &lsquo;give birth immediately&rsquo; amid delimitation concerns</a>
The fishing boats have also been docked as a precautionary measure amid the heavy rainfall warnings. The IMD has forecast light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning in several districts, including Ramanathapuram, Tirunelveli, Kanyakumari, Virudhunagar, Tenkasi, Madurai, Theni, Erode, Salem, and Namakkal.
Authorities have warned about waterlogging and slippery roads in some areas. Traffic may also be affected in several regions due to rainfall.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/narcotics-worth-38mn-seized-on-way-to-maldives-from-tamil-nadu-8834198">Narcotics worth $3.8mn seized on way to Maldives from Tamil Nadu</a>
<h2>Fishermen warning</h2>
The IMD has also advised fishermen not to venture into the affected places. &ldquo;Squally weather with wind speed 35 kmph to 45 kmph gusting to 55 kmph likely to prevail over along and off south Kerala coast and adjoining Lakshadweep, Maldives; Comorin areas,&rdquo; said IMD.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-gold-smuggling-dri-arrests-bengaluru-hoteliers-grandson-as-ranya-rao-remains-in-custody-8843602">Ranya Rao gold smuggling case: DRI arrests Bengaluru hotelier's grandson</a>
<h2>Forecast for other regions</h2>
According to the weather department, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim are likely to witness thunderstorms today. Similar weather conditions have also been predicted for Assam and Meghalaya from March 12 to 15. The IMD further said Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura are likely to experience rain from March 12 to 16.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/argentina-port-city-destroyed-by-massive-rainstorm-13-dead-8835403">Argentina port city 'destroyed' by massive rainstorm, 13 dead</a>
The IMD predicted a partly cloudy sky, with mist in the morning and surface winds throughout the day for New Delhi. The maximum temperature is expected to remain between 32 and 34 degrees Celsius, while the minimum may hover between 16 and 18 degrees Celsius in the national capital.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | The unseasonal showers have severely impacted the salt production in the region, which had resumed only a few days ago, affecting local producers.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an ‘orange alert’ for heavy rainfall in the Thoothukudi district of Tamil Nadu on March 12 amid downpours over the last few days. The unseasonal showers have severely impacted the salt production in the region, which had resumed only a few days ago. Incessant rainfall over the past two days has brought the operations to a halt, impacting local producers. Also read | Tamil Nadu CM Stalin urges newlywed couples to ‘give birth immediately’ amid delimitation concerns The fishing boats have also been docked as a precautionary measure amid the heavy rainfall warnings. The IMD has forecast light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning in several districts, including Ramanathapuram, Tirunelveli, Kanyakumari, Virudhunagar, Tenkasi, Madurai, Theni, Erode, Salem, and Namakkal. Authorities have warned about waterlogging and slippery roads in some areas. Traffic may also be affected in several regions due to rainfall. Also read | Narcotics worth $3.8mn seized on way to Maldives from Tamil Nadu Fishermen warning The IMD has also advised fishermen not to venture into the affected places. “Squally weather with wind speed 35 kmph to 45 kmph gusting to 55 kmph likely to prevail over along and off south Kerala coast and adjoining Lakshadweep, Maldives; Comorin areas,” said IMD. Also read | Ranya Rao gold smuggling case: DRI arrests Bengaluru hotelier's grandson Forecast for other regions According to the weather department, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim are likely to witness thunderstorms today. Similar weather conditions have also been predicted for Assam and Meghalaya from March 12 to 15. The IMD further said Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura are likely to experience rain from March 12 to 16. Also read | Argentina port city 'destroyed' by massive rainstorm, 13 dead The IMD predicted a partly cloudy sky, with mist in the morning and surface winds throughout the day for New Delhi. The maximum temperature is expected to remain between 32 and 34 degrees Celsius, while the minimum may hover between 16 and 18 degrees Celsius in the national capital. (With inputs from agencies)

IMD issues orange alert for Tamil Nadu’s Thoothukudi; heavy rains hit salt production

Many parts of Tamil Nadu received heavy rainfall on Tuesday following an orange alert issued by the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai. Several areas in Chennai witnessed mild showers.

Tamil Nadu to receive heavy rainfall, Chennai issues orange alert

The ongoing war of words between the ruling BJP and DMK led to disruptions in the Lok Sabha Monday, with Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan forced to withdraw a word from his remarks following protests by Tamil Nadu MPs. Watch this report for more details!

Centre vs Tamil Nadu's ruling party war of words in Parliament

Tamil Nadu will not tolerate 'Hindi colonialism' replacing British colonialism, Chief Minister M K Stalin said on Friday and accused Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan of provoking the state by threatening it to accept Hindi imposition.

Tamil Nadu CM Stalin: Hindi colonialism replacing British colonialism

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, has urged all political parties to participate in the all-party meeting convened by the DMK on the fifth of March to discuss the issue of delimitation. Watch this report for more details!

Tamil Nadu CM Stalin to chair all party meet on delimitation

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