Indian Army Chief General (Retd.) Shankar Roy Chowdhury expressed sorrow over the shocking demise of India's 1st Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat and recalled his time with the lost soul.

Ex-Army Chief General (Retd.) Shankar Roy Chowdhury: Very unfortunate that India lost its first CDS

The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold meeting with Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) to discuss the situation arising out of the crash of a military helicopter with Chief of defence staff Gen Bipin Rawat and several other officers on board on Wednesday near Coonoor in Tamil Nadu.

Indian PM Modi to hold Cabinet security meet over IAF helicopter crash

Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat passed away when an Indian Air Force helicopter met with an accident near Coonoor in Tamil Nadu.

Breaking News: Indian CDS General Bipin Rawat dies in IAF helicopter crash in Coonoor

An Indian Air Force Mi-17V5 helicopter carrying Chief Defence of Staff General Bipin Rawat, his wife, and military personnel crashed near Coonoor in Tamil Nadu. IAF’s Mi-17V5 helicopter is a saviour designed Russian helicopter. The chopper is one of the world’s most advanced transport helicopters. WION tells you more about the Mi-17V5 helicopter.

Indian Air Force Chopper Crash: All about the helicopter that crashed carrying CDS Gen Bipin Rawat

An Indian Air Force helicopter carrying Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat and 13 others crashed near Coonoor in Tamil Nadu. The condition of Rawat was uncertain. General Rawat is currently undergoing treatment at a military hospital in Wellington.

Chopper with CDS Bipin Rawat on board crashes in Coonoor, rescue operation underway

Indian Defence minister Rajnath Singh has briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the country's Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat's chopper crash. His brief included details of the crash and response measures taken. Sources from the defence minister's office said Rajnath Singh is monitoring the situation.

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh briefs PM Modi on Gen Bipin Rawat's chopper crash

Five bodies were recovered and three injured people were rescued after an IAF Mi-17V5 helicopter carrying India's Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat crashed in the Coonoor area of the Southern State of Tamil Nadu, today.

CDS Gen Bipin Rawat onboard chopper crashes; five bodies recovered, three injured rescued | Breaking

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has reached General Bipin Rawat's residence, to brief the family on the chopper crash. The CDS along with his wife Madhulika Rawat, and other staff, was in the Indian Air Force chopper that crashed near Coonoor in Tamil Nadu.

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visits CDS Bipin Rawat's residence, to brief on chopper crash

Four bodies were recovered and three injured people were rescued after an IAF Mi-17V5 helicopter carrying India's Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat crashed in the Coonoor area of the Southern State of Tamil Nadu, today.

India: Four bodies recovered after chopper carrying CDS Gen Bipin Rawat crashes in Tamil Nadu

Heavy rainfall lashes the island nation of Sri Lanka resulting in severe flash floods as the low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal is likely to turn into a depression; at least 16 people were killed, many are set to be missing.

Heavy rainfall in Sri Lanka, depression to reach North Tamil Nadu coast

Vedanta’s Sterlite Copper Smelter in Tuticorin that has been operational since May 2021&nbsp;under special permission from Tamil Nadu government&nbsp;has despatched over 542.92 metric tonnes&nbsp;of liquid medical oxygen to help the country deal with Covid.

This is in addition to 265 oxygen gas cylinders to meet the needs of Covid patients and hospitals.&nbsp;

According to the company, they have provided the critical resource to over 16 districts across Tamil Nadu and are focused on ramping up facilities to aid those in need.&nbsp;

The plant has so far produced and dispatched medical oxygen to southern and western districts of Tamil Nadu.

Besides the home district of Tuticorin where the plant is located, Sterlite has supplied to Tirunelveli, Madurai, Thanjavur, Sivagangai, Namakkalm Kanyakumari, Theni, Virudhunagar, Tenkasi, Dharmapuri, Ranipet, Krishnagiri, Ramanathapuram, Karur, Salemand Dindigul.&nbsp;

It was in late April that the once-shuttered Vedanta Sterlite Copper Smelter Plant was permitted to function by the Tamil Nadu government&nbsp;for the production of medical oxygen alone.

With the consensus of major political parties in the state, Sterlite had been permitted to service and operate their oxygen plant for four&nbsp;months, using electricity provided by the state government. The parties also added that based on the COVID-19 situation and the requirement of oxygen, this time period may be extended.&nbsp;

This decision to permit the plant’s operation comes with several conditions - no other unit within the plant will be allowed to operate, electricity will be suspended after the stipulated period and copper or other products cannot be manufactured during these four months. In addition, Sterlite will not be permitted to use its power generation unit.&nbsp;

In terms of security arrangements and confidence building among the local population, the government had said that a team under the leadership of the district collector and police officials, along with government experts in oxygen manufacturing, local people, anti-Sterlite protestors, NGOs, and environmental experts will be deciding and monitoring oxygen production at the plant.&nbsp;

At the start of the medical oxygen crisis is India, it was Sterlite which made an offer in the Supreme Court to provide for free nearly 1000 metric tonnes&nbsp;oxygen from the Tuticorin plant. However, the state government had then objected to it, much to the chagrin of the Chief justice who pointed out the dire situation of oxygen shortage in parts of the country.

The 4,00,000 tonne per annum Sterlite copper smelter plant has been operating in Tuticorin for over 25 years with a cumulative investment of about Rs 3,000 crore. However, from the very start, the Sterlite copper smelter plant has been facing protests from the local people who allege that it pollutes the environment and affects their life.

The state government ordered the closure of the copper smelter plant in 2018, following a violent protest that led to the death of 13 persons in police firing. The Supreme Court is hearing the an appeal filed by the company against the Madras High Court's refusal to reopen the plant.&nbsp;

Vedanta’s Sterlite Copper Smelter in Tuticorin that has been operational since May 2021 under special permission from Tamil Nadu government has despatched over 542.

Vedanta’s Sterlite Copper Smelter in Tuticorin that has been operational since May 2021 under special permission from Tamil Nadu government has despatched over 542.92 metric tonnes of liquid medical oxygen to help the country deal with Covid. This is in addition to 265 oxygen gas cylinders to meet the needs of Covid patients and hospitals. According to the company, they have provided the critical resource to over 16 districts across Tamil Nadu and are focused on ramping up facilities to aid those in need. The plant has so far produced and dispatched medical oxygen to southern and western districts of Tamil Nadu. Besides the home district of Tuticorin where the plant is located, Sterlite has supplied to Tirunelveli, Madurai, Thanjavur, Sivagangai, Namakkalm Kanyakumari, Theni, Virudhunagar, Tenkasi, Dharmapuri, Ranipet, Krishnagiri, Ramanathapuram, Karur, Salemand Dindigul. It was in late April that the once-shuttered Vedanta Sterlite Copper Smelter Plant was permitted to function by the Tamil Nadu government for the production of medical oxygen alone. With the consensus of major political parties in the state, Sterlite had been permitted to service and operate their oxygen plant for four months, using electricity provided by the state government. The parties also added that based on the COVID-19 situation and the requirement of oxygen, this time period may be extended. This decision to permit the plant’s operation comes with several conditions - no other unit within the plant will be allowed to operate, electricity will be suspended after the stipulated period and copper or other products cannot be manufactured during these four months. In addition, Sterlite will not be permitted to use its power generation unit. In terms of security arrangements and confidence building among the local population, the government had said that a team under the leadership of the district collector and police officials, along with government experts in oxygen manufacturing, local people, anti-Sterlite protestors, NGOs, and environmental experts will be deciding and monitoring oxygen production at the plant. At the start of the medical oxygen crisis is India, it was Sterlite which made an offer in the Supreme Court to provide for free nearly 1000 metric tonnes oxygen from the Tuticorin plant. However, the state government had then objected to it, much to the chagrin of the Chief justice who pointed out the dire situation of oxygen shortage in parts of the country. The 4,00,000 tonne per annum Sterlite copper smelter plant has been operating in Tuticorin for over 25 years with a cumulative investment of about Rs 3,000 crore. However, from the very start, the Sterlite copper smelter plant has been facing protests from the local people who allege that it pollutes the environment and affects their life. The state government ordered the closure of the copper smelter plant in 2018, following a violent protest that led to the death of 13 persons in police firing. The Supreme Court is hearing the an appeal filed by the company against the Madras High Court's refusal to reopen the plant.

COVID-19: Sterlite claims to have produced over 542MT of liquid medical oxygen for Tamil Nadu

Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu is witnessing an overall decline in Covid-19 cases, but still the state’s daily caseload is the highest in the country. While cases are on gradual decline in northern districts including capital city Chennai, western and southern districts are witnessing high daily caseloads. The state government on Saturday extended the lockdown till June 14th, with new relaxations. The lockdown will be in effect till 6 am on that day.

Following relaxations are due to come into effect from June 7. The new set of district-specific guidelines have been issued keeping in mind 11 hotspot districts and the rest of Tamil Nadu.

Relaxations for all districts

<ul>
	<li>Standalone shops selling grocery, vegetables, fish, meat etc. can be run from 6am to 5pm.</li>
	<li>Pavement vendors selling fruits, vegetables, flowers can function from 6am to 5pm.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Fish markets will be open only for wholesale sales. District administrations have been ordered to set up more than one such market in open spaces.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Slaughterhouses will be permitted to sell on wholesale scale.</li>
	<li>Government offices can function with 30 percent staff&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Document registration will be permitted by issuing 50% capacity tokens&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Matchstick industry can function with 50 percent staff .</li>
	<li>Sales of vegetables, fruits at the doorstep via vehicles will continue in every district.</li>
	<li>The public is requested to walk to nearby stores for shopping, and avoid taking two and four-wheeler vehicles.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Relaxations applicable to all districts (except 11 Covid hotspot Districts namely Coimbatore, Nilgiris, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, Karur, Namakkal, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai)</li>
	<li>Private security companies, housekeeping services in large housing complexes will be permitted with e-Registration</li>
	<li>Electricians, Plumbers, Computer and other technicians will be allowed to function between 6am to 5pm with e-Registration</li>
	<li>Shops selling electrical goods, bulbs, cables, switches, wires can function from 6am to 5pm&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Bicycle and two-wheeler service outlets will be allowed to function from 6am to 5pm&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Hardware stores will be allowed to remain open from 6am to 5pm&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Stores selling educational books, stationery can function from 6am to 5pm&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Service centers for vehicles can function from 6am to 5pm&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Passengers allowed to travel in rental vehicles, cabs, autos after e-registration&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Driver plus 3 passengers in Taxi; Driver plus 2 passengers in Auto&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

General&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>E-pass from district collector will be compulsory for emergency travel to Nilgiris, Kodaikanal, Yercaud, Yelagiri</li>
	<li>Export firms in Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Salem, Karur, Erode, Namakkal, Trichy and their suppliers can function with 10 percent staff if they have export orders, to send samples.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu is witnessing an overall decline in Covid-19 cases, but still the state’s daily caseload is the highest in the country. While cases are on gradual decline in northern districts including capital city Chennai, western and southern districts are witnessing high daily caseloads.

Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu is witnessing an overall decline in Covid-19 cases, but still the state’s daily caseload is the highest in the country. While cases are on gradual decline in northern districts including capital city Chennai, western and southern districts are witnessing high daily caseloads. The state government on Saturday extended the lockdown till June 14th, with new relaxations. The lockdown will be in effect till 6 am on that day. Following relaxations are due to come into effect from June 7. The new set of district-specific guidelines have been issued keeping in mind 11 hotspot districts and the rest of Tamil Nadu. Relaxations for all districts Standalone shops selling grocery, vegetables, fish, meat etc. can be run from 6am to 5pm. Pavement vendors selling fruits, vegetables, flowers can function from 6am to 5pm. Fish markets will be open only for wholesale sales. District administrations have been ordered to set up more than one such market in open spaces. Slaughterhouses will be permitted to sell on wholesale scale. Government offices can function with 30 percent staff Document registration will be permitted by issuing 50% capacity tokens Matchstick industry can function with 50 percent staff . Sales of vegetables, fruits at the doorstep via vehicles will continue in every district. The public is requested to walk to nearby stores for shopping, and avoid taking two and four-wheeler vehicles. Relaxations applicable to all districts (except 11 Covid hotspot Districts namely Coimbatore, Nilgiris, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, Karur, Namakkal, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai) Private security companies, housekeeping services in large housing complexes will be permitted with e-Registration Electricians, Plumbers, Computer and other technicians will be allowed to function between 6am to 5pm with e-Registration Shops selling electrical goods, bulbs, cables, switches, wires can function from 6am to 5pm Bicycle and two-wheeler service outlets will be allowed to function from 6am to 5pm Hardware stores will be allowed to remain open from 6am to 5pm Stores selling educational books, stationery can function from 6am to 5pm Service centers for vehicles can function from 6am to 5pm Passengers allowed to travel in rental vehicles, cabs, autos after e-registration Driver plus 3 passengers in Taxi; Driver plus 2 passengers in Auto General E-pass from district collector will be compulsory for emergency travel to Nilgiris, Kodaikanal, Yercaud, Yelagiri Export firms in Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Salem, Karur, Erode, Namakkal, Trichy and their suppliers can function with 10 percent staff if they have export orders, to send samples.

Tamil Nadu: Lockdown extended till June 14th with district-specific relaxations 

Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India's aviation watchdog on Monday de-rostered flight crew of SpiceJet plane that was chartered&nbsp;as a wedding destination in the sky. A counple got married in the plane with more than 100 attendees onboard. The images of the 'ceremony' have gone viral on the social media.

"Crew members are off rostered. Airline directed to lodge a complaint against those not following COVID-19 appropriate behaviour with relevant authorities," a DGCA official told ANI.

Pictures of a Madurai-based couple’s wedding that took place on board a chartered commercial aircraft that flew between Madurai and Tuticorin, have gone viral on social media.

What’s caught netizens’ attention is the manner in which the family and wedding attendees are seen blatantly violating COVID-19 norms, with very few wearing masks and the others not wearing them at all or wearing it improperly. This comes at a time when Tamil Nadu is witnessing the peak of COVID-19 with nearly 36,000 daily cases and is in the midst of a state government-ordered Lockdown. &nbsp;

It is said that the couple, who are based out of Goripalayam in Madurai, had tied the knot sometime last week, with limited guests as per the 50-attendee cap set by the government.

However, as the state government announced temporary relaxations to lockdown restrictions on Saturday and Sunday, the families seem to have arranged a chartered flight to have a special wedding with more attendees. It is said that the wedding guests were all tested RT-PCR negative. However the claim has not been verified.&nbsp;

Going by the pictures and videos of this wedding, there are over 100 people seated in the flight, with hardly any adherence to prevalent COVID-19 norms in the Indian Aviation sector. Generally, those taking domestic flights in India have to be temperature checked, masked, are provided face shields, sanitizers, etc to ensure safety of all on board.&nbsp;

WION had reached out to the concerned airline for a clarification and has understood that their plane, a Boeing 737 was chartered by a Madurai travel agent for a group that wanted a post-wedding joy ride. “The client was clearly briefed on Covid guidelines to be followed and denied permission or any activity to be performed on board. The approval for this flight was taken as joy ride for the wedding group,” read the statement from SpiceJet.&nbsp;

According to the airline, the agent and passengers were repeatedly briefed in detail on the Covid safety norms at the airport and in-flight, and also about the DGCA protocols restricting photography and videography.

“Despite repeated requests and reminders the passengers did not follow Covid guidelines and the airline is taking appropriate action as per rules,” the airline added.

For one week from Monday, Tamil Nadu is in a total lockdown, where even grocery and vegetable shops would be shut. Vegetables and fruits would be sold on carts and vehicles that are authorised to do so by the civic bodies of respective districts. Only medical shops, fuel stations, ATMs and essential government offices will be open, while banks can function with one-third staff. E-commerce deliveries can operate from 8 am until 6 pm. Hotels will function from 6 am to 10 am, 12 noon to 3 pm and 6 pm to 9 pm and provide only takeaways, during which food delivery services can function.&nbsp;

However, the latest government order issued pertaining to this lockdown does not provide information on whether weddings are permitted and the crowd restrictions, crowd restrictions at funerals, etc. It also does not make a mention on availability of cabs, autos, permissions required for traveling to vaccination centres, etc. There is also confusion over whether customers can visit banks, since the banks themselves can function with 1/3rd staff.&nbsp;

Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India's aviation watchdog on Monday de-rostered flight crew of SpiceJet plane that was chartered as a wedding destination in the sky.

Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India's aviation watchdog on Monday de-rostered flight crew of SpiceJet plane that was chartered as a wedding destination in the sky. A counple got married in the plane with more than 100 attendees onboard. The images of the 'ceremony' have gone viral on the social media. "Crew members are off rostered. Airline directed to lodge a complaint against those not following COVID-19 appropriate behaviour with relevant authorities," a DGCA official told ANI. Pictures of a Madurai-based couple’s wedding that took place on board a chartered commercial aircraft that flew between Madurai and Tuticorin, have gone viral on social media. What’s caught netizens’ attention is the manner in which the family and wedding attendees are seen blatantly violating COVID-19 norms, with very few wearing masks and the others not wearing them at all or wearing it improperly. This comes at a time when Tamil Nadu is witnessing the peak of COVID-19 with nearly 36,000 daily cases and is in the midst of a state government-ordered Lockdown. It is said that the couple, who are based out of Goripalayam in Madurai, had tied the knot sometime last week, with limited guests as per the 50-attendee cap set by the government. However, as the state government announced temporary relaxations to lockdown restrictions on Saturday and Sunday, the families seem to have arranged a chartered flight to have a special wedding with more attendees. It is said that the wedding guests were all tested RT-PCR negative. However the claim has not been verified. Going by the pictures and videos of this wedding, there are over 100 people seated in the flight, with hardly any adherence to prevalent COVID-19 norms in the Indian Aviation sector. Generally, those taking domestic flights in India have to be temperature checked, masked, are provided face shields, sanitizers, etc to ensure safety of all on board. WION had reached out to the concerned airline for a clarification and has understood that their plane, a Boeing 737 was chartered by a Madurai travel agent for a group that wanted a post-wedding joy ride. “The client was clearly briefed on Covid guidelines to be followed and denied permission or any activity to be performed on board. The approval for this flight was taken as joy ride for the wedding group,” read the statement from SpiceJet. According to the airline, the agent and passengers were repeatedly briefed in detail on the Covid safety norms at the airport and in-flight, and also about the DGCA protocols restricting photography and videography. “Despite repeated requests and reminders the passengers did not follow Covid guidelines and the airline is taking appropriate action as per rules,” the airline added. For one week from Monday, Tamil Nadu is in a total lockdown, where even grocery and vegetable shops would be shut. Vegetables and fruits would be sold on carts and vehicles that are authorised to do so by the civic bodies of respective districts. Only medical shops, fuel stations, ATMs and essential government offices will be open, while banks can function with one-third staff. E-commerce deliveries can operate from 8 am until 6 pm. Hotels will function from 6 am to 10 am, 12 noon to 3 pm and 6 pm to 9 pm and provide only takeaways, during which food delivery services can function. However, the latest government order issued pertaining to this lockdown does not provide information on whether weddings are permitted and the crowd restrictions, crowd restrictions at funerals, etc. It also does not make a mention on availability of cabs, autos, permissions required for traveling to vaccination centres, etc. There is also confusion over whether customers can visit banks, since the banks themselves can function with 1/3rd staff.

Tamil Nadu: Couple’s sky-high wedding creates problem, DGCA takes flight crew off duty

As daily COVID-19 cases cross&nbsp;the 36,000 mark and active cases&nbsp;near&nbsp;the 300,000&nbsp;mark, Tamil Nadu government has intensified the prevailing lockdown and extended it upto May 31.

In order to permit the people to prepare for the lockdown, the government has permitted all shops to remain open until 9 pm on Saturday and from 6 am to 9 pm on&nbsp;May 23. Outstation buses will be permitted to operate on May 22&nbsp;and 23 . According to the Tamil Nadu government, the COVID-19 second wave is expected to peak by the end of May or early June.

As per the latest guidelines which will come into effect on May 24, essentials such as milk, drinking water, newspapers will be available. Allopathy and traditional medicine shops will also remain open. In addition, vegetables and fruits would be sold in vehicles operated by the respective civic bodies across all districts including Chennai. E-commerce services, too&nbsp;can operate between 8 am and 6 pm.

Besides this, transportation of agricultural goods and produce, movement of essential goods, other cargo will be permitted. Also, hotels will function and provide only takeaway service between 6-10 am, 12 noon-3 pm and 6-9 pm, during which the online food delivery services can also function.&nbsp;

Fuel stations, ATMs, media industry,&nbsp;continuous process industries, industries manufacturing essential commodities, medical equipment can continue to function. Only the essential department in the Secretariat and District Administration will function. For emergencies such as death or medical reasons, inter-district travel will be permitted based on e-registration&nbsp;

As daily COVID-19 cases cross the 36,000 mark and active cases near the 300,000 mark, Tamil Nadu government has intensified the prevailing lockdown and extended it upto May 31.

As daily COVID-19 cases cross the 36,000 mark and active cases near the 300,000 mark, Tamil Nadu government has intensified the prevailing lockdown and extended it upto May 31. In order to permit the people to prepare for the lockdown, the government has permitted all shops to remain open until 9 pm on Saturday and from 6 am to 9 pm on May 23. Outstation buses will be permitted to operate on May 22 and 23 . According to the Tamil Nadu government, the COVID-19 second wave is expected to peak by the end of May or early June. As per the latest guidelines which will come into effect on May 24, essentials such as milk, drinking water, newspapers will be available. Allopathy and traditional medicine shops will also remain open. In addition, vegetables and fruits would be sold in vehicles operated by the respective civic bodies across all districts including Chennai. E-commerce services, too can operate between 8 am and 6 pm. Besides this, transportation of agricultural goods and produce, movement of essential goods, other cargo will be permitted. Also, hotels will function and provide only takeaway service between 6-10 am, 12 noon-3 pm and 6-9 pm, during which the online food delivery services can also function. Fuel stations, ATMs, media industry, continuous process industries, industries manufacturing essential commodities, medical equipment can continue to function. Only the essential department in the Secretariat and District Administration will function. For emergencies such as death or medical reasons, inter-district travel will be permitted based on e-registration

Tamil Nadu’s ongoing lockdown extended until May 31. New guidelines inside

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

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

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

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

After a four-day search and rescue operation involving the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Navy assets, fishing boat Mercedes which set sail on April 6 was located around 370 km&nbsp;from Lakshadweep.

The vessel with 11-crew that had set sail from Thengapattnam harbour in &nbsp;Kanyakumari, was on a 30-day voyage towards Kerala, when it was feared sunk around 597 nautical miles from Goa.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu Fisheries authorities had alerted the Indian Coast Guard on&nbsp;April 24 about debris spotted by other fishing boats, raising suspicion of Mercedes having sunk. Following this, the Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Center (MRCC) of the Indian Coast Guard, Mumbai activated the International Safety Net to alert merchant vessels transiting the region to look out for the said boat.&nbsp;

Simultaneously, ICGS Samudra Prahari was diverted for search, MRCC, Mumbai coordinated with the merchant vessel Maersk Horsburgh to join the search operation along with fishing boats operating in the area. As the reported position was in Pakistan’s Search and Rescue Region, MRCC Karachi was also requested for assistance.&nbsp;

Considering the distance from the mainland, the Indian Navy carried out Long Range Maritime Patrol aircraft. It was also learnt that the fishing boat was not carrying Automatic identification System (which transmits a vessel’s location) or any other transponder which could have assisted in early locating.&nbsp;

After four days of continuous search, amidst challenges posed by distance from mainland and weather, the missing boat was located around 200 miles (around 370 km) from Lakshadweep Islands. An ICG Dornier Aircraft located and corroborated the presence of the boat on Wednesday and MRCC Mumbai established contact via a satellite phone that the vessel was carrying.&nbsp;

In the interim, information was also received from Tamil Nadu fisheries authorities&nbsp;on the crew of fishing vessel Mercedes having called up home via satellite phone to indicate their safe condition.

AN ICG ship deployed near Lakshadweep was diverted to render medical and logistical assistance to the crew and the fishing boat. Under escort of ICG ship, the vessel is expected to return to its home port by May 3.&nbsp;

After a four-day search and rescue operation involving the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Navy assets, fishing boat Mercedes which set sail on April 6 was located around 370 km from Lakshadweep.

After a four-day search and rescue operation involving the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Navy assets, fishing boat Mercedes which set sail on April 6 was located around 370 km from Lakshadweep. The vessel with 11-crew that had set sail from Thengapattnam harbour in Kanyakumari, was on a 30-day voyage towards Kerala, when it was feared sunk around 597 nautical miles from Goa. Tamil Nadu Fisheries authorities had alerted the Indian Coast Guard on April 24 about debris spotted by other fishing boats, raising suspicion of Mercedes having sunk. Following this, the Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Center (MRCC) of the Indian Coast Guard, Mumbai activated the International Safety Net to alert merchant vessels transiting the region to look out for the said boat. Simultaneously, ICGS Samudra Prahari was diverted for search, MRCC, Mumbai coordinated with the merchant vessel Maersk Horsburgh to join the search operation along with fishing boats operating in the area. As the reported position was in Pakistan’s Search and Rescue Region, MRCC Karachi was also requested for assistance. Considering the distance from the mainland, the Indian Navy carried out Long Range Maritime Patrol aircraft. It was also learnt that the fishing boat was not carrying Automatic identification System (which transmits a vessel’s location) or any other transponder which could have assisted in early locating. After four days of continuous search, amidst challenges posed by distance from mainland and weather, the missing boat was located around 200 miles (around 370 km) from Lakshadweep Islands. An ICG Dornier Aircraft located and corroborated the presence of the boat on Wednesday and MRCC Mumbai established contact via a satellite phone that the vessel was carrying. In the interim, information was also received from Tamil Nadu fisheries authorities on the crew of fishing vessel Mercedes having called up home via satellite phone to indicate their safe condition. AN ICG ship deployed near Lakshadweep was diverted to render medical and logistical assistance to the crew and the fishing boat. Under escort of ICG ship, the vessel is expected to return to its home port by May 3.

Tamil Nadu fishing boat feared sunk for 4 days located, 11 crew safe

Tamil Nadu's daily Covid-19 cases breached the 1,000-mark, after months of decline in cases. As per the health bulletin issued on Friday, the state recorded 1,087 new cases, of which 421 were from Chennai, whereas Coimbatore and Chengalpattu also recorded over 100 cases each.&nbsp;

While the rise in cases is in line with a pan-India trend, it is a cause for concern particularly in Tamil Nadu, where the crucial assembly polls are due on April 6th. Currently, the state has 6,690 active cases.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-covid-19-spike-chief-secretary-takes-stock-authorities-asked-to-intensify-efforts-370898">Tamil Nadu Covid-19 spike: Chief secretary takes stock, authorities asked to intensify efforts</a>

Since late 2020, Tamil Nadu had been witnessing a decline in Covid-19 cases and by end of January, the state had eased almost all restrictions and returned to normal, as the daily cases were well below the 400-mark on average.&nbsp;

The current spike in cases has been building up over the last two weeks, where daily case numbers have more than doubled.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, Chief secretary Rajeev Ranjan held a meeting with top officials from the civic authorities, police, health, revenue departments and the district administration.

It was stated that the reasons for the current spike are public and private events, schools, banks etc. where mask-wearing and physical distancing norms are violated, in addition to flouting of home quarantine norms.

To enforce Covid norms and increase efforts towards controlling the pandemic, the chief secretary ordered the violators of Covid protocols be find under the Public health act, it was also added that resumption of temperature screening and availability of sanitizer be ensured at all workplaces, factories and hotels.&nbsp;

Government authorities have been instructed to ensure that the norms are strictly followed across banks, government and private venues, factories, wedding halls, schools, places of worship, tourist places etc.&nbsp;

The health department has been asked to conduct fever camps and devise special strategies for areas reporting many cases or case clusters. Monitoring of home quarantined persons would also continue, in line with the previous year.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu's health secretary&nbsp;Dr. J. Radhakrishnan said on Friday that a large number of cases were family clusters of those who attended functions, events, rather than a widespread outbreak. He also added that the micro-containment zone would be established in case there were three cases in a single block or apartment complex and that detailed contact tracing and testing of contacts would continue.&nbsp;

With nine deaths on Friday, 12,582 persons have lost their battle to the pandemic in Tamil Nadu, whereas 8.45 lakh person has recovered, out of the 8.64 lakh infected persons.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu's daily Covid-19 cases breached the 1,000-mark, after months of decline in cases. As per the health bulletin issued on Friday, the state recorded 1,087 new cases, of which 421 were from Chennai, whereas Coimbatore and Chengalpattu also recorded over 100 cases each.

Tamil Nadu's daily Covid-19 cases breached the 1,000-mark, after months of decline in cases. As per the health bulletin issued on Friday, the state recorded 1,087 new cases, of which 421 were from Chennai, whereas Coimbatore and Chengalpattu also recorded over 100 cases each. While the rise in cases is in line with a pan-India trend, it is a cause for concern particularly in Tamil Nadu, where the crucial assembly polls are due on April 6th. Currently, the state has 6,690 active cases. Also read | Tamil Nadu Covid-19 spike: Chief secretary takes stock, authorities asked to intensify efforts Since late 2020, Tamil Nadu had been witnessing a decline in Covid-19 cases and by end of January, the state had eased almost all restrictions and returned to normal, as the daily cases were well below the 400-mark on average. The current spike in cases has been building up over the last two weeks, where daily case numbers have more than doubled. Earlier this week, Chief secretary Rajeev Ranjan held a meeting with top officials from the civic authorities, police, health, revenue departments and the district administration. It was stated that the reasons for the current spike are public and private events, schools, banks etc. where mask-wearing and physical distancing norms are violated, in addition to flouting of home quarantine norms. To enforce Covid norms and increase efforts towards controlling the pandemic, the chief secretary ordered the violators of Covid protocols be find under the Public health act, it was also added that resumption of temperature screening and availability of sanitizer be ensured at all workplaces, factories and hotels. Government authorities have been instructed to ensure that the norms are strictly followed across banks, government and private venues, factories, wedding halls, schools, places of worship, tourist places etc. The health department has been asked to conduct fever camps and devise special strategies for areas reporting many cases or case clusters. Monitoring of home quarantined persons would also continue, in line with the previous year. Tamil Nadu's health secretary Dr. J. Radhakrishnan said on Friday that a large number of cases were family clusters of those who attended functions, events, rather than a widespread outbreak. He also added that the micro-containment zone would be established in case there were three cases in a single block or apartment complex and that detailed contact tracing and testing of contacts would continue. With nine deaths on Friday, 12,582 persons have lost their battle to the pandemic in Tamil Nadu, whereas 8.45 lakh person has recovered, out of the 8.64 lakh infected persons.

After months of decline, daily Covid-19 cases breach 1,000 in Tamil Nadu

With election-bound southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu also reporting a significant spike in Covid-19 cases over the last 10 days, its chief secretary has asked authorities to intensify prevention efforts and to&nbsp;crack down on violators of mask-wearing and related Covid-19 safety norms.&nbsp;

Chief secretary Rajeev Ranjan held a meeting with top officials from civic authorities, police, health, revenue departments and the district administration. The reasons for the current spike are public and private events, schools, banks etc,&nbsp;where mask-wearing and physical distancing norms are violated, in addition to flouting of home quarantine norms.

To enforce Covid norms and increase efforts towards controlling the pandemic, the chief secretary ordered that the violators of Covid protocols be fined under the Public Health Act. Resumption of temperature screening and availability of sanitiser be ensured at all workplaces, factories and hotels, it was recommended.&nbsp;

Government authorities have been instructed to ensure that the norms are strictly followed across banks, government and private venues, factories, wedding halls, schools, places of worship and tourist places.&nbsp;

The health department has been asked to conduct fever camps and devise special strategies for areas reporting many cases or case clusters. Monitoring of home quarantined persons would also continue, in line with the previous year.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu reported 836 Covid-19 cases on Monday, which took the active cases to 5,149. A total of 8.60 lakh persons have tested positive and 8.42 lakh persons have been discharged following treatment to date.&nbsp;

According to the government, the test positivity rate in the state had been brought below 1% in January and February, but now it has risen to 1.2%.&nbsp;

However, in big cities such as Chennai and Coimbatore, the test positivity rate has gone past 2%, this is at a time when the average daily testing is around 65,000.

With election-bound southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu also reporting a significant spike in Covid-19 cases over the last 10 days, its chief secretary has asked authorities to intensify prevention efforts and to crack down on violators of mask-wearing and related Covid-19 safety norms.

With election-bound southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu also reporting a significant spike in Covid-19 cases over the last 10 days, its chief secretary has asked authorities to intensify prevention efforts and to crack down on violators of mask-wearing and related Covid-19 safety norms. Chief secretary Rajeev Ranjan held a meeting with top officials from civic authorities, police, health, revenue departments and the district administration. The reasons for the current spike are public and private events, schools, banks etc, where mask-wearing and physical distancing norms are violated, in addition to flouting of home quarantine norms. To enforce Covid norms and increase efforts towards controlling the pandemic, the chief secretary ordered that the violators of Covid protocols be fined under the Public Health Act. Resumption of temperature screening and availability of sanitiser be ensured at all workplaces, factories and hotels, it was recommended. Government authorities have been instructed to ensure that the norms are strictly followed across banks, government and private venues, factories, wedding halls, schools, places of worship and tourist places. The health department has been asked to conduct fever camps and devise special strategies for areas reporting many cases or case clusters. Monitoring of home quarantined persons would also continue, in line with the previous year. Tamil Nadu reported 836 Covid-19 cases on Monday, which took the active cases to 5,149. A total of 8.60 lakh persons have tested positive and 8.42 lakh persons have been discharged following treatment to date. According to the government, the test positivity rate in the state had been brought below 1% in January and February, but now it has risen to 1.2%. However, in big cities such as Chennai and Coimbatore, the test positivity rate has gone past 2%, this is at a time when the average daily testing is around 65,000.

Tamil Nadu Covid-19 spike: Chief secretary takes stock, authorities asked to intensify efforts

VK Sasikala’s sudden announcement to stay away from politics, barely a month after reaching Chennai amid a grand welcome has led to an unexpected twist in Tamil Nadu politics, as this comes in the run-up to the crucial Assembly poll on April 6. On the one hand, while her nephew and AMMK General Secretary TTV Dinakaran has expressed shock and said it would be a setback, the BJP has welcomed the move, via a statement issued by State President Dr. L. Murugan.&nbsp;

The return of the ousted AIADMK General Secretary and late Chief Minister Jayalalithaa’s aide to Chennai on February 8th, following her incarceration, was keenly watched, owing to the impact it would have on the AIADMK and its allies.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/tamil-superstar-kamal-haasan-gets-first-dose-of-covid-vaccine-367366">Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan gets first dose of Covid vaccin</a>e

Aside from the clout she once enjoyed within the party, she also hails from an influential community, which has its strongholds in Southern Tamil Nadu. Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam also belongs to the same community.&nbsp;

The nearly 24-hour drive from Bengaluru to Chennai (which usually takes no longer than 6 hours) and the welcome accorded to her along multiple stops on the way, had created the impression of her impending re-entry into the political arena.&nbsp;

Voices from the opposition DMK’s first family were also among those who predicted trouble for the AIADMK, after Sasikala’s release from the Parappana Agrahara prison. While DMK President MK Stalin had hinted about the things falling into place after someone from Bengaluru arrives, his son Udhayanidhi blatantly said that Sasikala would create trouble for the ruling duo EPS and OPS.&nbsp;

Though AIADMK leaders were initially hesitant to comment on Sasikala’s arrival and the scenario that would follow, later Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami made it clear that there was absolutely no possibility of her re-induction into the party or a possibility of an alliance. The cadre who put up posters hailing Sasikala and welcoming her were also instantly booted out from the party, in a stern message.&nbsp;

In the first week of February, on her way to Chennai, Sasikala had announced to her supporters, about the willingness to re-unite with the AIADMK and defeat the party’s common enemy. She added that she would dedicate the rest of her life to the AIADMK’s progress. In the same vein, she added a veiled threat which said, while she was a slave before the party’s ideology, people’s love and cadres’ affection, she would not fear oppression.&nbsp;

Since reaching her residence in Chennai, there were no major announcements or public appearances by Sasikala, until February 24th when she garlanded late J Jayalalithaa’s photo at her residence, on the occasion of the four-time chief minister’s birth anniversary. Speaking at that event, she told supporters of her plan to meet the public and her followers in due course.&nbsp;

Over the last few days, amid speculation of the BJP making attempts to get AMMK to join hands with the AIADMK, TTV Dinakaran said that they were open to leading an alliance of like-minded parties. It was on the same evening that Sasikala made this surprise announcement to stay away from politics, despite Dinakaran having requested against it.&nbsp;

“Amma's (Jayalalithaa's) loyalists must ensure that evil force DMK doesn't come to power. MGR-Jayalalithaa’s golden rule must continue in Tamil Nadu, cadre should work together as children of the same mother. I've never aspired for power, post or authority. Staying away from politics, I'll always pray to the almighty and Amma for my sister Amma's golden rule to continue” read her statement.&nbsp;

However, Dinakaran has said that he would speak to party functionaries to take stock of the situation and contest the polls. “Her opinion is her’s, I won’t influence. She only wanted Amma’s children to be together, I tried to convince her for 30 mins… but she didn't agree” he told media. Adding that, the AMMK had received over 1300 nominations from prospective candidates and that the candidates list would be announced on March 10th, followed by the alliance announcement.&nbsp;

BJP’s State President Dr. L. Murugan issued a statement welcoming Sasikala’s decision. Hinting at the DMK he said, “this is a big setback to those who wanted to foment trouble and capture power in Tamil Nadu by any means”.&nbsp;

VK Sasikala’s sudden announcement to stay away from politics, barely a month after reaching Chennai amid a grand welcome has led to an unexpected twist in Tamil Nadu politics, as this comes in the run-up to the crucial Assembly poll on April 6.

VK Sasikala’s sudden announcement to stay away from politics, barely a month after reaching Chennai amid a grand welcome has led to an unexpected twist in Tamil Nadu politics, as this comes in the run-up to the crucial Assembly poll on April 6. On the one hand, while her nephew and AMMK General Secretary TTV Dinakaran has expressed shock and said it would be a setback, the BJP has welcomed the move, via a statement issued by State President Dr. L. Murugan. The return of the ousted AIADMK General Secretary and late Chief Minister Jayalalithaa’s aide to Chennai on February 8th, following her incarceration, was keenly watched, owing to the impact it would have on the AIADMK and its allies. Also read | Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan gets first dose of Covid vaccine Aside from the clout she once enjoyed within the party, she also hails from an influential community, which has its strongholds in Southern Tamil Nadu. Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam also belongs to the same community. The nearly 24-hour drive from Bengaluru to Chennai (which usually takes no longer than 6 hours) and the welcome accorded to her along multiple stops on the way, had created the impression of her impending re-entry into the political arena. Voices from the opposition DMK’s first family were also among those who predicted trouble for the AIADMK, after Sasikala’s release from the Parappana Agrahara prison. While DMK President MK Stalin had hinted about the things falling into place after someone from Bengaluru arrives, his son Udhayanidhi blatantly said that Sasikala would create trouble for the ruling duo EPS and OPS. Though AIADMK leaders were initially hesitant to comment on Sasikala’s arrival and the scenario that would follow, later Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami made it clear that there was absolutely no possibility of her re-induction into the party or a possibility of an alliance. The cadre who put up posters hailing Sasikala and welcoming her were also instantly booted out from the party, in a stern message. In the first week of February, on her way to Chennai, Sasikala had announced to her supporters, about the willingness to re-unite with the AIADMK and defeat the party’s common enemy. She added that she would dedicate the rest of her life to the AIADMK’s progress. In the same vein, she added a veiled threat which said, while she was a slave before the party’s ideology, people’s love and cadres’ affection, she would not fear oppression. Since reaching her residence in Chennai, there were no major announcements or public appearances by Sasikala, until February 24th when she garlanded late J Jayalalithaa’s photo at her residence, on the occasion of the four-time chief minister’s birth anniversary. Speaking at that event, she told supporters of her plan to meet the public and her followers in due course. Over the last few days, amid speculation of the BJP making attempts to get AMMK to join hands with the AIADMK, TTV Dinakaran said that they were open to leading an alliance of like-minded parties. It was on the same evening that Sasikala made this surprise announcement to stay away from politics, despite Dinakaran having requested against it. “Amma's (Jayalalithaa's) loyalists must ensure that evil force DMK doesn't come to power. MGR-Jayalalithaa’s golden rule must continue in Tamil Nadu, cadre should work together as children of the same mother. I've never aspired for power, post or authority. Staying away from politics, I'll always pray to the almighty and Amma for my sister Amma's golden rule to continue” read her statement. However, Dinakaran has said that he would speak to party functionaries to take stock of the situation and contest the polls. “Her opinion is her’s, I won’t influence. She only wanted Amma’s children to be together, I tried to convince her for 30 mins… but she didn't agree” he told media. Adding that, the AMMK had received over 1300 nominations from prospective candidates and that the candidates list would be announced on March 10th, followed by the alliance announcement. BJP’s State President Dr. L. Murugan issued a statement welcoming Sasikala’s decision. Hinting at the DMK he said, “this is a big setback to those who wanted to foment trouble and capture power in Tamil Nadu by any means”.

Sasikala quits politics; nephew TTV expresses shock, BJP welcomes move

Actor-filmmaker and president of newly formed political party Makkal Needhi Maiam President Kamal Haasan received the first does of the Covid19&nbsp;vaccine in Chennai on Tuesday in the second phase of India's vaccine drive.&nbsp; 
 
The Indian government has expanded the vaccine drive to include people above 60 years of age and those above 45 with comorbidities.&nbsp;

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Actor and Makkal Needhi Maiam President Kamal Haasan receives the first dose of COVID19 vaccine at Chennai <a href="https://t.co/50KOp7pzl6">pic.twitter.com/50KOp7pzl6</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1366653125432500224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Haasan, 66, is reportedly going to be contesting for the upcoming Tamil Nadu assembly elections from a Chennai seat. He is likely to begin the campaign on Wednesday. A day earlier, he was clicked getting the first jab of the Covid vaccine.&nbsp; 
 
Haasan is perhaps the first Indian actor to have gotten vaccinated. So far prominent politicians and Union Ministers have received the first dose of the vaccine in the second phase which kickstarted with PM Narendra Modi receiving the first jab.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/Narendra-Modi-first-dose-coronavirus-take-the-vaccine-pm-modi-takes-first-dose-of-coronavirus-vaccine-at-aiims-delhi-366946" hreflang="en">'Take the vaccine': PM Modi takes first dose of coronavirus vaccine at AIIMS</a> 
 
In addition to this, the Indian cricket team's head coach Ravi Shastri also received the first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine at a city hospital in Ahmedabad.

Actor-filmmaker and president of newly formed political party Makkal Needhi Maiam President Kamal Haasan received the first does of the Covid19 vaccine in Chennai on Tuesday in the second phase of India's vaccine drive.

Actor-filmmaker and president of newly formed political party Makkal Needhi Maiam President Kamal Haasan received the first does of the Covid19 vaccine in Chennai on Tuesday in the second phase of India's vaccine drive. The Indian government has expanded the vaccine drive to include people above 60 years of age and those above 45 with comorbidities. Actor and Makkal Needhi Maiam President Kamal Haasan receives the first dose of COVID19 vaccine at Chennai pic.twitter.com/50KOp7pzl6 — ANI (@ANI) March 2, 2021 × Haasan, 66, is reportedly going to be contesting for the upcoming Tamil Nadu assembly elections from a Chennai seat. He is likely to begin the campaign on Wednesday. A day earlier, he was clicked getting the first jab of the Covid vaccine. Haasan is perhaps the first Indian actor to have gotten vaccinated. So far prominent politicians and Union Ministers have received the first dose of the vaccine in the second phase which kickstarted with PM Narendra Modi receiving the first jab. 'Take the vaccine': PM Modi takes first dose of coronavirus vaccine at AIIMS In addition to this, the Indian cricket team's head coach Ravi Shastri also received the first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine at a city hospital in Ahmedabad.

Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan gets first dose of Covid vaccine

Ronaldo, who used to entertain tourists and wildlife enthusiasts from many decades at a sanctuary in Indian state of Tamil Nadu died in a dastardly attack which later became a fatal injury. WION brings you a report.

Elephant dies after dastardly attack in Tamil Nadu, two arrested

A video displaying inhumane nature and brutality has emerged from the buffer zone of Mudumalai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu. Few persons at a private homestay cum farm, in Mavanallah, are seen hurling a large burning piece of cloth on a tusker (already hurt) that had wandered inside the property. The video is said to be of an incident that had taken place a few weeks back.&nbsp;

In the first part of the video, an individual holding a burning log is seen chasing the elephant. As the horror unfolds, at least three persons are heard speaking in the background. “That’s it, burn and die” an individual is heard saying towards the end of the video, as the elephant trumpets in fear and runs away.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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Absolutely horrific. The people running a private resort throw a lit-tyre on a 50-year-old <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/elephant?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#elephant</a> in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nilgiris?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nilgiris</a>, that died as a result of the injuries it suffered. <a href="https://twitter.com/SanctuaryAsia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SanctuaryAsia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/nehaa_sinha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nehaa_sinha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/elephantfamily?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elephantfamily</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Mugilan__C?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Mugilan__C</a> <a href="https://t.co/YE8UI8dBIi">pic.twitter.com/YE8UI8dBIi</a>
— Rohan Premkumar (@ThinBrownDuke26) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThinBrownDuke26/status/1352565590712487943?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Forest officials have confirmed that this was the same tusker that died earlier this week&nbsp;on January 19. “The death is caused by an earlier injury and a festering wound, which was a few months old. We had been providing treatment for the wild tusker, but this setting ablaze incident happened after that” KK Kaushal, Field Director, Mudumalai Tiger reserve told Zee Media.&nbsp;

Srikanth, Deputy Director of Mudumalai Tiger reserve has said, based on investigation they have arrested Prasath and Raymond Dean, whereas a search is on for Ricky Rayan, who is currently not in station.&nbsp;

Forest department officials say that the wild elephant nicknamed “Ronaldo” or “SI”was always spotted in and around Masinagudi-bokkapuram area. It was about two months back that the officials got to know of an injury on the elephant’s back and started observing the elephant’s movements, following which they deputed a team to feed, care for it.&nbsp;

“Our watchers noticed a deep hole(injury) in its back and thereafter we started feeding it fruits embedded with medicines. Once we tranquilized the elephant and treated it with antibiotics. There was some progress in the elephant’s condition gradually, but it always kept coming close to habitations and blocking the highways, without causing any harm” Srikanth, had earlier told Zee Media.&nbsp;

He added the their team had found the elephant to be very weak, a couple of days ago, after which they decided to tranquilize it and move it to the elephant camp for further treatment. It was when the elephant was being loaded onto a truck and taken to the camp that it collapsed and died, on Tuesday.&nbsp;

“Post mortem report has revealed that the deep injury in the back had led to puss formation in the lungs. The wound could have been from sharp bamboo edges and the injury was in an area that cannot be reached by the trunk” Srikanth said.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

A video displaying inhumane nature and brutality has emerged from the buffer zone of Mudumalai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu. Few persons at a private homestay cum farm, in Mavanallah, are seen hurling a large burning piece of cloth on a tusker (already hurt) that had wandered inside the property.

A video displaying inhumane nature and brutality has emerged from the buffer zone of Mudumalai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu. Few persons at a private homestay cum farm, in Mavanallah, are seen hurling a large burning piece of cloth on a tusker (already hurt) that had wandered inside the property. The video is said to be of an incident that had taken place a few weeks back. In the first part of the video, an individual holding a burning log is seen chasing the elephant. As the horror unfolds, at least three persons are heard speaking in the background. “That’s it, burn and die” an individual is heard saying towards the end of the video, as the elephant trumpets in fear and runs away. Watch | Absolutely horrific. The people running a private resort throw a lit-tyre on a 50-year-old #elephant in the #Nilgiris, that died as a result of the injuries it suffered. @SanctuaryAsia @nehaa_sinha @elephantfamily @Mugilan__C pic.twitter.com/YE8UI8dBIi — Rohan Premkumar (@ThinBrownDuke26) January 22, 2021 × Forest officials have confirmed that this was the same tusker that died earlier this week on January 19. “The death is caused by an earlier injury and a festering wound, which was a few months old. We had been providing treatment for the wild tusker, but this setting ablaze incident happened after that” KK Kaushal, Field Director, Mudumalai Tiger reserve told Zee Media. Srikanth, Deputy Director of Mudumalai Tiger reserve has said, based on investigation they have arrested Prasath and Raymond Dean, whereas a search is on for Ricky Rayan, who is currently not in station. Forest department officials say that the wild elephant nicknamed “Ronaldo” or “SI”was always spotted in and around Masinagudi-bokkapuram area. It was about two months back that the officials got to know of an injury on the elephant’s back and started observing the elephant’s movements, following which they deputed a team to feed, care for it. “Our watchers noticed a deep hole(injury) in its back and thereafter we started feeding it fruits embedded with medicines. Once we tranquilized the elephant and treated it with antibiotics. There was some progress in the elephant’s condition gradually, but it always kept coming close to habitations and blocking the highways, without causing any harm” Srikanth, had earlier told Zee Media. He added the their team had found the elephant to be very weak, a couple of days ago, after which they decided to tranquilize it and move it to the elephant camp for further treatment. It was when the elephant was being loaded onto a truck and taken to the camp that it collapsed and died, on Tuesday. “Post mortem report has revealed that the deep injury in the back had led to puss formation in the lungs. The wound could have been from sharp bamboo edges and the injury was in an area that cannot be reached by the trunk” Srikanth said.

Wounded tusker set ablaze in Tamil Nadu, dies later; video emerges

After being slammed by many for increasing seating capacity of theatres and cinema halls from 50% to 100%, Tamil Nadu government has got a notice from The Ministry of Home Affairs on Wednesday. The Centre has asked Tamil Nadu government to "immediately issue necessary order" to bring their guidelines in line with the MHA guidelines issued for Covid-19 containment.

In a statement, MHA said, "Government of Tamil Nadu order of permitting increase the seating capacity of Cinema/theaters/ multiplexes from existing 50% to 100% is a dilution of MHA order. States and UT shall not dilute guidelines issued under DM act in any manner.”

"Govt of Tamil Nadu is requested to immediately issue necessary order to bring their Guidelines in line with the MHA guidelines dated 28 December 2020 and inform compliance to this Ministry," the ministry further said.

Home secretary wrote to Tamil Nadu Chief secretary to issue orders aligned to MHA guidelines, allowing multiplexes to operate outside containment zones with up to 50% occupancy.

On Monday, Tamil Nadu government had permitted to increase the seating capacity of cinemas, theatres and said,“The seating capacity of Cinemas/theatres/Multiplexes shall be permitted to increase from existing 0% to 100% by following the Standard Operating Procedure issued already. Further, in order to create awareness among the spectators, the precautionary measures for Covid 19 shall also be screened during the showtime.”

The changes were made after actors and theatre owners requested Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami to allow theatres to function at their full capacity.&nbsp;

After being slammed by many for increasing seating capacity of theatres and cinema halls from 50% to 100%, Tamil Nadu government has got a notice from The Ministry of Home Affairs on Wednesday.

After being slammed by many for increasing seating capacity of theatres and cinema halls from 50% to 100%, Tamil Nadu government has got a notice from The Ministry of Home Affairs on Wednesday. The Centre has asked Tamil Nadu government to "immediately issue necessary order" to bring their guidelines in line with the MHA guidelines issued for Covid-19 containment. In a statement, MHA said, "Government of Tamil Nadu order of permitting increase the seating capacity of Cinema/theaters/ multiplexes from existing 50% to 100% is a dilution of MHA order. States and UT shall not dilute guidelines issued under DM act in any manner.” "Govt of Tamil Nadu is requested to immediately issue necessary order to bring their Guidelines in line with the MHA guidelines dated 28 December 2020 and inform compliance to this Ministry," the ministry further said. Home secretary wrote to Tamil Nadu Chief secretary to issue orders aligned to MHA guidelines, allowing multiplexes to operate outside containment zones with up to 50% occupancy. On Monday, Tamil Nadu government had permitted to increase the seating capacity of cinemas, theatres and said,“The seating capacity of Cinemas/theatres/Multiplexes shall be permitted to increase from existing 0% to 100% by following the Standard Operating Procedure issued already. Further, in order to create awareness among the spectators, the precautionary measures for Covid 19 shall also be screened during the showtime.” The changes were made after actors and theatre owners requested Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami to allow theatres to function at their full capacity.

Home Ministry asks Tamil Nadu government to 'immediately' take back 100% theatre occupancy order

Tamil Nadu has made significant progress in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic as the state surpassed 8 lakh (8,00,429) recoveries on Sunday. The active cases in the state stand at 8,127( 1% of total reported cases), which is among the lowest when compared with the worst hit states in India.&nbsp;

However, a recent cluster that has emerged in some of the upscale hotels in Chennai city has been a cause for concern, at a time when the state has opened up almost entirely. 4392 staff of star hotels and other hotels were tested and 125 of those samples returned positive, 2014 returned negative, while 491 results are awaited.&nbsp;

Of the 2226 employees of star hotels in the city, 1303 employees were tested and 114 have returned positive. In the case of other category hotels there are 4190 staff, of which 11 tested positive, from the 1417 tests conducted.&nbsp;

According to Tamil Nadu Health Secretary Dr. J. Radhakrishnan, such routine testing would be carried out over the next three weeks, as a measure of abundant precaution. Testing of staff would be carried out at hotels that have banquet halls, marriage halls, hostels, colleges, hostels for working men and women etc.

Recently, another cluster had emerged in the IIT-Madras campus, largely owing to a common dining area that catered to over 700 persons. Following inspections on campus, it was decided to provide food in the student's rooms.

On Sunday, the state health bulletin reported 867 new cases, of which, 236 were from Chennai. Ten deaths were added, thus taking the death toll to 12,156.&nbsp;

Of the nearly 2300 persons who travelled into the state from the UK, between November 25th and December 23rd, 21,146 persons have been traced. 44 of them have tested positive as on Sunday and the results of seven persons are awaited.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu has made significant progress in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic as the state surpassed 8 lakh (8,00,429) recoveries on Sunday. The active cases in the state stand at 8,127( 1% of total reported cases), which is among the lowest when compared with the worst hit states in India.

Tamil Nadu has made significant progress in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic as the state surpassed 8 lakh (8,00,429) recoveries on Sunday. The active cases in the state stand at 8,127( 1% of total reported cases), which is among the lowest when compared with the worst hit states in India. However, a recent cluster that has emerged in some of the upscale hotels in Chennai city has been a cause for concern, at a time when the state has opened up almost entirely. 4392 staff of star hotels and other hotels were tested and 125 of those samples returned positive, 2014 returned negative, while 491 results are awaited. Of the 2226 employees of star hotels in the city, 1303 employees were tested and 114 have returned positive. In the case of other category hotels there are 4190 staff, of which 11 tested positive, from the 1417 tests conducted. According to Tamil Nadu Health Secretary Dr. J. Radhakrishnan, such routine testing would be carried out over the next three weeks, as a measure of abundant precaution. Testing of staff would be carried out at hotels that have banquet halls, marriage halls, hostels, colleges, hostels for working men and women etc. Recently, another cluster had emerged in the IIT-Madras campus, largely owing to a common dining area that catered to over 700 persons. Following inspections on campus, it was decided to provide food in the student's rooms. On Sunday, the state health bulletin reported 867 new cases, of which, 236 were from Chennai. Ten deaths were added, thus taking the death toll to 12,156. Of the nearly 2300 persons who travelled into the state from the UK, between November 25th and December 23rd, 21,146 persons have been traced. 44 of them have tested positive as on Sunday and the results of seven persons are awaited.

Tamil Nadu gets past 8 lakh COVID-19 recoveries; new cluster emerges in Chennai hotels

Income Tax searches at the premises of a civil contractor for government works has led to the seizure of Rs.21 cr (about USD 3 million) unaccounted cash and detection fo Rs.700 cr (over USD 951 million) unaccounted income.&nbsp;

According to the department, the searches were carried out on December 14 and at 15 in Chennai and Erode premises. The searched group specialises in erecting seawall breaks along the coast and diversified into bus transport, running marriage halls and cooking masala business.&nbsp;

“It was found that the group indulges in inflation of purchases and other work contract expenses. Such inflated payments made to the suppliers and subcontractors are received back in cash regularly” read the statement from the Central Board of Direct taxes.&nbsp;

It also added that the Rs.700 crore unaccounted income is ploughed back into real estate investments and business expansion and that the assessee admitted to having an undisclosed income of Rs.150 cr (over 20 million) so far.&nbsp;

Income Tax searches at the premises of a civil contractor for government works has led to the seizure of Rs.21 cr (about USD 3 million) unaccounted cash and detection fo Rs.

Income Tax searches at the premises of a civil contractor for government works has led to the seizure of Rs.21 cr (about USD 3 million) unaccounted cash and detection fo Rs.700 cr (over USD 951 million) unaccounted income. According to the department, the searches were carried out on December 14 and at 15 in Chennai and Erode premises. The searched group specialises in erecting seawall breaks along the coast and diversified into bus transport, running marriage halls and cooking masala business. “It was found that the group indulges in inflation of purchases and other work contract expenses. Such inflated payments made to the suppliers and subcontractors are received back in cash regularly” read the statement from the Central Board of Direct taxes. It also added that the Rs.700 crore unaccounted income is ploughed back into real estate investments and business expansion and that the assessee admitted to having an undisclosed income of Rs.150 cr (over 20 million) so far.

Tamil Nadu: Over USD 950 million unaccounted income detected at govt contractor's premises

Cyclone Burevi that brought heavy rain to parts of southern India and neighbouring Sri Lanka has weakened into a "practically stationary" deep depression, India's weather office said on Friday.

Tamil Nadu had earlier declared a government holiday in some areas and urged people to stay at home ahead of the cyclone.

"(A) deep depression over Gulf of Mannar...is close to Ramanathapuram district coast, remained practically stationary," the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said in a statement, referring to the state's southeast.

The last week killed 23, uprooting trees and cutting power and communication links.

In addition, the Met department has withdrawn the red alert issued for Cyclone Burevi and rains in the seven southernmost districts of the state.

The IMD issued a yellow alert for 10 districts of the state.

In a bulletin released on Friday morning, the IMD said the deep depression is likely to move slowly west- southwestwards and cross Ramanathapuram and adjoining Thoothukudi districts in Tamil Nadu during the next six hours with wind speed of 50-60 gusting to 70 kmph.

"It is very likely to weaken further into a depression (wind speed 45-55 kmph gusting to 65 kmph) during next 12 hours," IMD said.

It has issued yellow alerts for the districts of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad and Malappuram.

Meanwhile, the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport has rescheduled nine flights scheduled for Friday.

The state has also opened over 2,000 relief camps to face any contingencies as heavy rains were expected when cyclone Burevi made landfall.

A deep depression over southwest Bay of Bengal had intensified into a cyclonic storm 'Burevi' and the IMD had predicted heavy rains and wind in the seven southern districts of the state from December 3 to 5.

Cyclone Burevi that brought heavy rain to parts of southern India and neighbouring Sri Lanka has weakened into a "practically stationary" deep depression, India's weather office said on Friday.

Cyclone Burevi that brought heavy rain to parts of southern India and neighbouring Sri Lanka has weakened into a "practically stationary" deep depression, India's weather office said on Friday. Tamil Nadu had earlier declared a government holiday in some areas and urged people to stay at home ahead of the cyclone. "(A) deep depression over Gulf of Mannar...is close to Ramanathapuram district coast, remained practically stationary," the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said in a statement, referring to the state's southeast. The last week killed 23, uprooting trees and cutting power and communication links. In addition, the Met department has withdrawn the red alert issued for Cyclone Burevi and rains in the seven southernmost districts of the state. The IMD issued a yellow alert for 10 districts of the state. In a bulletin released on Friday morning, the IMD said the deep depression is likely to move slowly west- southwestwards and cross Ramanathapuram and adjoining Thoothukudi districts in Tamil Nadu during the next six hours with wind speed of 50-60 gusting to 70 kmph. "It is very likely to weaken further into a depression (wind speed 45-55 kmph gusting to 65 kmph) during next 12 hours," IMD said. It has issued yellow alerts for the districts of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad and Malappuram. Meanwhile, the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport has rescheduled nine flights scheduled for Friday. The state has also opened over 2,000 relief camps to face any contingencies as heavy rains were expected when cyclone Burevi made landfall. A deep depression over southwest Bay of Bengal had intensified into a cyclonic storm 'Burevi' and the IMD had predicted heavy rains and wind in the seven southern districts of the state from December 3 to 5.

Cyclone Burevi weakens after bringing rain to southern India

Shortly after tweeting about floating his political party in January, actor Rajinikanth spoke to the media and emphasized his earlier message that political change in Tamil Nadu was imperative and that he is someone who never went back on his words.&nbsp;

Rajini recalled his 2017 event, where he made an announcement regarding starting a political party and facing the Assembly polls and contesting all 234 constituencies in Tamil Nadu. He also added that Covid-19 had spoilt his plans of meeting the public after his press meet in March this year, where he had spoken of an uprising among the masses which would propel his political movement.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/suspense-continues-will-reveal-my-decision-asap-says-rajinikanth-on-political-foray-346403">Suspense continues: 'Will reveal my decision ASAP', says Rajinikanth on political foray</a>

The actor acknowledged that he was medically at risk owing to Covid-19 as he had undergone a kidney transplant and has very low immunity.&nbsp;

“When I was hospitalized in Singapore, the prayers of Tamil people brought me back to life. Doctors advised me about Covid-19 being a huge risk, but now even if I lose my life for the benefit of the people, there won’t be anybody as happy as me”.&nbsp;

The actor also said that it was time to change the fate of Tamil Nadu and expressed hope that they would be able to change everything, with the thought that it was now or never.&nbsp;

“I am just a small instrument in the change. If I win then it is people’s victory,” he added, urging for support from people.&nbsp;

Rajini also said that he would complete the 40 per cent shooting of his current project Annaathe that remains pending.&nbsp;

Shortly after tweeting about floating his political party in January, actor Rajinikanth spoke to the media and emphasized his earlier message that political change in Tamil Nadu was imperative and that he is someone who never went back on his words.

Shortly after tweeting about floating his political party in January, actor Rajinikanth spoke to the media and emphasized his earlier message that political change in Tamil Nadu was imperative and that he is someone who never went back on his words. Rajini recalled his 2017 event, where he made an announcement regarding starting a political party and facing the Assembly polls and contesting all 234 constituencies in Tamil Nadu. He also added that Covid-19 had spoilt his plans of meeting the public after his press meet in March this year, where he had spoken of an uprising among the masses which would propel his political movement. Also read | Suspense continues: 'Will reveal my decision ASAP', says Rajinikanth on political foray The actor acknowledged that he was medically at risk owing to Covid-19 as he had undergone a kidney transplant and has very low immunity. “When I was hospitalized in Singapore, the prayers of Tamil people brought me back to life. Doctors advised me about Covid-19 being a huge risk, but now even if I lose my life for the benefit of the people, there won’t be anybody as happy as me”. The actor also said that it was time to change the fate of Tamil Nadu and expressed hope that they would be able to change everything, with the thought that it was now or never. “I am just a small instrument in the change. If I win then it is people’s victory,” he added, urging for support from people. Rajini also said that he would complete the 40 per cent shooting of his current project Annaathe that remains pending.

Time has come to change the fate of Tamil Nadu, says Rajinikanth

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday announced that a cyclone brewing in the Bay of Bengal is likely to affect Tamil Nadu and Kerala, less than a week after cyclone Nivar wreaked havoc in the southern states. 
 
The cyclone will cross the Sri Lanka coast on December 2 and bring heavy rain over Tamil Nadu and Kerala, it said in the bulletin. Fishermen out at sea are advised to return to the coast by Monday. 
 
The depression in southeast Bay of Bengal is very likely to intensify into a deep depression during next 12 hours and into a cyclonic storm during subsequent 24 hours. "It is very likely to move west-northwestwards and cross the Sri Lanka coast during evening or night of 2nd December," the IMD said. 
 
The cyclone is very like to move nearly westwards thereafter and emerge into Comorin area on December 3 morning, it added. Once it attains strength, it will be called `Burevi`. 
 
It will bring isolated extremely heavy falls over south Tamil Nadu in Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Tenkasi, Ramanathapuram and Sivaganga areas on December 2 and 3. In south Kerala, it will bring showers at Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta and Alappuzah areas on December 3. 
 
Fishermen are advised not to venture into southeast Bay of Bengal from November 30 to December 1, southwest Bay of Bengal and along and off east Sri Lanka coast from December 1 to 3. 
 
They have been asked not to venture into Comorin area, Gulf of Mannar and south Tamil Nadu-Kerala coasts from December 2 to 4 and over Lakshadweep-Maldives area and adjoining southeast Arabian Sea from December 3 to 4. The IMD advised total suspension of fishing operation during November 30 to December 4 over the areas. 
 
On November 25, severe cyclone Nivar had hit near Karaikal and brought along extremely heavy rain over Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and coastal Andhra Pradesh.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday announced that a cyclone brewing in the Bay of Bengal is likely to affect Tamil Nadu and Kerala, less than a week after cyclone Nivar wreaked havoc in the southern states.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday announced that a cyclone brewing in the Bay of Bengal is likely to affect Tamil Nadu and Kerala, less than a week after cyclone Nivar wreaked havoc in the southern states. The cyclone will cross the Sri Lanka coast on December 2 and bring heavy rain over Tamil Nadu and Kerala, it said in the bulletin. Fishermen out at sea are advised to return to the coast by Monday. The depression in southeast Bay of Bengal is very likely to intensify into a deep depression during next 12 hours and into a cyclonic storm during subsequent 24 hours. "It is very likely to move west-northwestwards and cross the Sri Lanka coast during evening or night of 2nd December," the IMD said. The cyclone is very like to move nearly westwards thereafter and emerge into Comorin area on December 3 morning, it added. Once it attains strength, it will be called `Burevi`. It will bring isolated extremely heavy falls over south Tamil Nadu in Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Tenkasi, Ramanathapuram and Sivaganga areas on December 2 and 3. In south Kerala, it will bring showers at Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta and Alappuzah areas on December 3. Fishermen are advised not to venture into southeast Bay of Bengal from November 30 to December 1, southwest Bay of Bengal and along and off east Sri Lanka coast from December 1 to 3. They have been asked not to venture into Comorin area, Gulf of Mannar and south Tamil Nadu-Kerala coasts from December 2 to 4 and over Lakshadweep-Maldives area and adjoining southeast Arabian Sea from December 3 to 4. The IMD advised total suspension of fishing operation during November 30 to December 4 over the areas. On November 25, severe cyclone Nivar had hit near Karaikal and brought along extremely heavy rain over Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and coastal Andhra Pradesh.

After Nivar, cyclone 'Burevi' to hit Tamil Nadu, Kerala

A more than 12-hour-long operation was able to rescue an elephant who fell into a well in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

Forest officials on Friday said a crane was used to successfully pull out the elephant from the well, as reported by news agency Reuters.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zimbabwe-finds-more-elephant-carcasses-death-toll-at-22-324824#:~:text=Zimbabwe's%20wildlife%20agency%20said%20on,22%2C%20double%20the%20initial%20figure.">Zimbabwe finds more elephant carcasses, death toll at 22</a>

Rajkumar, the district forest officer said the elephant was roaming around a village bordering Dharampuri district when it fell down to the well that was covered with bushes and did not have any boundary around it.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-curbs-see-elephant-idols-shrunk-for-ganesh-chaturthi-322390">COVID-19 curbs see elephant idols shrunk for Ganesh Chaturthi</a>

"It was a deep and narrow well," said the forest officer.&nbsp;

"We were informed by locals early on Thursday and were able to retrieve the elephant only late in the night."

The officials first cleared away the bushes around the well and then pumped water out of the well. But the elephant attacked the pipes that were taking out the water.&nbsp;

"Eventually, we sedated the animal with the help of doctors and used a crane to lift it out of the well," he said.

"It was found to be healthy and active when we monitored it for three hours after the rescue."

A more than 12-hour-long operation was able to rescue an elephant who fell into a well in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Forest officials on Friday said a crane was used to successfully pull out the elephant from the well, as reported by news agency Reuters.

A more than 12-hour-long operation was able to rescue an elephant who fell into a well in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Forest officials on Friday said a crane was used to successfully pull out the elephant from the well, as reported by news agency Reuters. Also read | Zimbabwe finds more elephant carcasses, death toll at 22 Rajkumar, the district forest officer said the elephant was roaming around a village bordering Dharampuri district when it fell down to the well that was covered with bushes and did not have any boundary around it. Also read | COVID-19 curbs see elephant idols shrunk for Ganesh Chaturthi "It was a deep and narrow well," said the forest officer. "We were informed by locals early on Thursday and were able to retrieve the elephant only late in the night." The officials first cleared away the bushes around the well and then pumped water out of the well. But the elephant attacked the pipes that were taking out the water. "Eventually, we sedated the animal with the help of doctors and used a crane to lift it out of the well," he said. "It was found to be healthy and active when we monitored it for three hours after the rescue."

Tamil Nadu: Elephant falls into well, rescued after 14-hour operation

Actor-turned politician Kamal Haasan has urged adults from across social strata in Tamil Nadu to get their Voter ID cards or Electoral Photo Identity Cards (EPIC) ready. This message, in the form of a video comes days prior to the camps that the Election Commission would be organizing in Tamil Nadu, where voters can visit voting centers and apply for corrections and changes in their details.&nbsp;

The Election Commission of India on Monday released the draft electoral rolls for Tamil Nadu, which is headed for Assembly polls in 2021.&nbsp;

According to the statistics mentioned in the draft electoral rolls for Tamil Nadu, there are about 6.10crore voters in total and this comprises 3.09crore women, 3.01crore men and 6,385 transgenders. In terms of new electors or first-time voters, there are a total of 2.08lakh voters, which comprises of 1.06lakh females, 1.01lakh males and 132 transgenders.&nbsp;

Special camps will be held at the voting centres where voters can apply for corrections or changes to be made. The first camp will be held on November 21st &amp; 22nd and the next camp will be organized on December 12th and 13th.

Haasan stated that the highest honour of merit a person receives when he/she turns 18, is the right to vote and that the most powerful weapon one could possess was a Voter ID.&nbsp;

“When a society fails to discharge the mandatory duties, people of that society lose whatever is rightfully theirs. The real peril is lurking in the issues that we think are redundant or unrelated to us” he said.&nbsp;

Making a mention of those ranting online about a corrupt system and corrupt politicians, Haasan emphasized that it would be in vain in one didn’t possess a voter ID.&nbsp;

Recalling the Bihar elections where a large number of women voters and homemakers had voted in large numbers, he highlighted the scenario where a candidate had lost with a margin of 12 votes.&nbsp;

“You are not voting for someone. You are voting for yourself. You decide on who should decide for you. Your constant mantra should be &nbsp;-I will change; I will vote" he said in the video&nbsp;

Haasan has been actively prepping his party Makkal Needhi Maiam for the 2021 Assembly Polls in the state and is hopeful that his party emerges as &nbsp;the third front in the state, after the Dravidian majors.&nbsp;

Haasan is expected to announce his campaign tour of the state towards the end of November. &nbsp;Earlier, he had said that the party’s manifesto was getting ready and over one lakh members had joined the party in recent times. He said that his party’s candidates would be people from wide-ranging fields who are known for their good work.&nbsp;

Actor-turned politician Kamal Haasan has urged adults from across social strata in Tamil Nadu to get their Voter ID cards or Electoral Photo Identity Cards (EPIC) ready.

Actor-turned politician Kamal Haasan has urged adults from across social strata in Tamil Nadu to get their Voter ID cards or Electoral Photo Identity Cards (EPIC) ready. This message, in the form of a video comes days prior to the camps that the Election Commission would be organizing in Tamil Nadu, where voters can visit voting centers and apply for corrections and changes in their details. The Election Commission of India on Monday released the draft electoral rolls for Tamil Nadu, which is headed for Assembly polls in 2021. According to the statistics mentioned in the draft electoral rolls for Tamil Nadu, there are about 6.10crore voters in total and this comprises 3.09crore women, 3.01crore men and 6,385 transgenders. In terms of new electors or first-time voters, there are a total of 2.08lakh voters, which comprises of 1.06lakh females, 1.01lakh males and 132 transgenders. Special camps will be held at the voting centres where voters can apply for corrections or changes to be made. The first camp will be held on November 21st & 22nd and the next camp will be organized on December 12th and 13th. Haasan stated that the highest honour of merit a person receives when he/she turns 18, is the right to vote and that the most powerful weapon one could possess was a Voter ID. “When a society fails to discharge the mandatory duties, people of that society lose whatever is rightfully theirs. The real peril is lurking in the issues that we think are redundant or unrelated to us” he said. Making a mention of those ranting online about a corrupt system and corrupt politicians, Haasan emphasized that it would be in vain in one didn’t possess a voter ID. Recalling the Bihar elections where a large number of women voters and homemakers had voted in large numbers, he highlighted the scenario where a candidate had lost with a margin of 12 votes. “You are not voting for someone. You are voting for yourself. You decide on who should decide for you. Your constant mantra should be -I will change; I will vote" he said in the video Haasan has been actively prepping his party Makkal Needhi Maiam for the 2021 Assembly Polls in the state and is hopeful that his party emerges as the third front in the state, after the Dravidian majors. Haasan is expected to announce his campaign tour of the state towards the end of November. Earlier, he had said that the party’s manifesto was getting ready and over one lakh members had joined the party in recent times. He said that his party’s candidates would be people from wide-ranging fields who are known for their good work.

Ahead of TN Polls, Kamal Haasan urges fans to get Voters IDs checked and ready

Tamil Nadu Agriculture Minister R Doraikannu, who was battling Covid-19, has died, the hospital treating him said on Sunday.

The 72 year-old minister breathed his last late on Saturday night, Kauvery Hospital Executive Director Dr Aravdindan Selvaraj said in a medical bulletin.

"With deep grief, we announce the sad demise of Honourable Minister for Agriculture R Doraikannu," on Saturday at 11.15 pm, he said.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the grieving family during this difficult period," he added.

Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit condoled the death of Daoraikannu and said he was saddened to know about the demise of the Minister.

Doraikkannu "was known for his simplicity, humbleness, straightforwardness, governance skills and commitment towards the welfare of farming community..."

"He handled Ministry of Agriculture with full dedication and engraved his strong mark. His untimely demise is an irreparable loss to the people of Tamil Nadu and particularly to the AIADMK party," he said in his condolence message.

Purohit conveyed his deep condolences to the bereaved members of the family and said he prayed to the Almighty God to rest his soul in peace.

Doraikkannu was elected to the Tamil Nadu Assembly from Papanasam in Thanjavur district in 2006, 2011 and 2016, with the late chief minister J Jayalalithaa inducting him in the cabinet in 2016.

The 72-year-old Minister's health had on Sunday suffered a significant deterioration in vital functions.

The hospital had said on Monday that the Minister was being treated for severe COVID pneumonia and its complications.

A CT scan had showed 90 per cent lung involvement vis- a-vis the infection and he was put on ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) and ventilator.

On October 13, the minister experienced unease when he was on his way to attend the funeral of Davusayammal, Chief Minister K Palaniswami's mother, who had died at the age of 93 at Salem.

Doraikkannu, who was travelling in his car, was rushed to the government medical college hospital in Villupuram and from there was shifted to Kauvery hospital the same day.

Tamil Nadu Agriculture Minister R Doraikannu, who was battling Covid-19, has died, the hospital treating him said on Sunday. The 72 year-old minister breathed his last late on Saturday night, Kauvery Hospital Executive Director Dr Aravdindan Selvaraj said in a medical bulletin.

Tamil Nadu Agriculture Minister R Doraikannu, who was battling Covid-19, has died, the hospital treating him said on Sunday. The 72 year-old minister breathed his last late on Saturday night, Kauvery Hospital Executive Director Dr Aravdindan Selvaraj said in a medical bulletin. "With deep grief, we announce the sad demise of Honourable Minister for Agriculture R Doraikannu," on Saturday at 11.15 pm, he said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the grieving family during this difficult period," he added. Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit condoled the death of Daoraikannu and said he was saddened to know about the demise of the Minister. Doraikkannu "was known for his simplicity, humbleness, straightforwardness, governance skills and commitment towards the welfare of farming community..." "He handled Ministry of Agriculture with full dedication and engraved his strong mark. His untimely demise is an irreparable loss to the people of Tamil Nadu and particularly to the AIADMK party," he said in his condolence message. Purohit conveyed his deep condolences to the bereaved members of the family and said he prayed to the Almighty God to rest his soul in peace. Doraikkannu was elected to the Tamil Nadu Assembly from Papanasam in Thanjavur district in 2006, 2011 and 2016, with the late chief minister J Jayalalithaa inducting him in the cabinet in 2016. The 72-year-old Minister's health had on Sunday suffered a significant deterioration in vital functions. The hospital had said on Monday that the Minister was being treated for severe COVID pneumonia and its complications. A CT scan had showed 90 per cent lung involvement vis- a-vis the infection and he was put on ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) and ventilator. On October 13, the minister experienced unease when he was on his way to attend the funeral of Davusayammal, Chief Minister K Palaniswami's mother, who had died at the age of 93 at Salem. Doraikkannu, who was travelling in his car, was rushed to the government medical college hospital in Villupuram and from there was shifted to Kauvery hospital the same day.

Tamil Nadu Agriculture Minister R Doraikannu dies due to COVID-19

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