Sri Lanka on Saturday (Nov 29) declared a state of emergency and urged the international community for assistance as the death toll from incessant rains and flooding caused by Cyclone Ditwah reached 132, with another 176 still missing. The Cyclone triggered calamity has destroyed more than 15,000 homes, rendering over 78,000 people homeless. The affected are currently living in government-run temporary shelters, according to the Disaster Management Centre (CMC).&nbsp;"We have 132 confirmed dead and another 176 missing," DMC Director-General Sampath Kotuwegoda said, adding that relief efforts had been ramped up with the deployment of the army, navy and air force.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ndrf-deploys-24-teams-as-cyclone-ditwah-begins-to-impact-tamil-nadu-1764416065804">NDRF deploys 24 teams, as Cyclone Ditwah begins to impact Tamil Nadu</a>&nbsp;The military rescued 69 bus passengers on Saturday, including a German tourist, who were marooned in the Anuradhapura district after a 24-hour operation involving a helicopter and naval boats.&nbsp;President Anura Kumara Dissanyake declared a state of emergency, granting him additional powers to mitigate the devastation caused by a week of incessant torrential rains across the country.&nbsp;Stepping forward immediately, India launched ‘Operation Sagar Bandhu' to assist Sri Lanka in its hour of crisis. The first tranche of relief materials was handed over after the consignments were transported by the Indian Navy's aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and frontline ship INS Udaigiri to the island nation.<h2>India braces for Impact</h2>Indian authorities on Saturday intensified their preparation for the impact of Cyclone Ditwah, taking emergency measures including deployment of National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF) and SDRF teams, building temporary shelters, and emergency evacuations, as it made its way up the southwest Bay of Bengal, bringing stronger winds, a longer spell of rains in Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry.&nbsp;Chennai airport has cancelled 54 flights as the slow-moving Cyclone is expected to approach the southern state. By Friday evening, Cyclone Ditwah was positioned around 450 km south of Chennai, moving north–northwest at 7 km/h.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-braces-for-cyclone-ditwah-origin-of-name-landfall-time-all-you-need-to-know-1764329443476">India braces for Cyclone Ditwah: Origin of name, landfall time – All you need to know</a>&nbsp;The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert and forecasted "Heavy to Very Heavy Rainfall with isolated Extremely Heavy Rainfall very likely at isolated places over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry &amp; Karaikal on Saturday."&nbsp;&nbsp;"The Cyclonic storm over the southwest Bay of Bengal is moving north-northwest and is expected near the North Tamil Nadu–Puducherry–South Andhra Pradesh coast by early Nov 30," it added.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Cyclone Ditwah strengthened its impact on Tamil Nadu on Saturday, leading to school closures, cancellation of 54 flights, suspension of sea-bridge rail services, and the evacuation of residents in coastal areas.

Sri Lanka on Saturday (Nov 29) declared a state of emergency and urged the international community for assistance as the death toll from incessant rains and flooding caused by Cyclone Ditwah reached 132, with another 176 still missing. The Cyclone triggered calamity has destroyed more than 15,000 homes, rendering over 78,000 people homeless. The affected are currently living in government-run temporary shelters, according to the Disaster Management Centre (CMC). "We have 132 confirmed dead and another 176 missing," DMC Director-General Sampath Kotuwegoda said, adding that relief efforts had been ramped up with the deployment of the army, navy and air force. Also Read: NDRF deploys 24 teams, as Cyclone Ditwah begins to impact Tamil Nadu The military rescued 69 bus passengers on Saturday, including a German tourist, who were marooned in the Anuradhapura district after a 24-hour operation involving a helicopter and naval boats. President Anura Kumara Dissanyake declared a state of emergency, granting him additional powers to mitigate the devastation caused by a week of incessant torrential rains across the country. Stepping forward immediately, India launched ‘Operation Sagar Bandhu' to assist Sri Lanka in its hour of crisis. The first tranche of relief materials was handed over after the consignments were transported by the Indian Navy's aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and frontline ship INS Udaigiri to the island nation. India braces for Impact Indian authorities on Saturday intensified their preparation for the impact of Cyclone Ditwah, taking emergency measures including deployment of National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF) and SDRF teams, building temporary shelters, and emergency evacuations, as it made its way up the southwest Bay of Bengal, bringing stronger winds, a longer spell of rains in Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry. Chennai airport has cancelled 54 flights as the slow-moving Cyclone is expected to approach the southern state. By Friday evening, Cyclone Ditwah was positioned around 450 km south of Chennai, moving north–northwest at 7 km/h. Also Read: India braces for Cyclone Ditwah: Origin of name, landfall time – All you need to know The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert and forecasted "Heavy to Very Heavy Rainfall with isolated Extremely Heavy Rainfall very likely at isolated places over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry & Karaikal on Saturday." "The Cyclonic storm over the southwest Bay of Bengal is moving north-northwest and is expected near the North Tamil Nadu–Puducherry–South Andhra Pradesh coast by early Nov 30," it added.

Cyclone Ditwah strengthened its impact on Tamil Nadu on Saturday, leading to school closures, cancellation of 54 flights, suspension of sea-bridge rail services, and the evacuation of residents in coastal areas.

Cyclone Ditwah: Sri Lanka declares emergency as death toll rises to 132; India braces for impact

Authorities have issued warnings for residents to stay indoors as disaster response teams are placed on standby. This precautionary measure comes amid concerns of natural hazards or emergencies in the area. Residents are advised to follow safety guidelines, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay updated through official channels. The preparedness of response teams ensures that emergency services can act swiftly in case the situation escalates.

Tamil Nadu: Residents Warned to Stay Indoors as Disaster Response Teams on Standby

Heavy rainfall is lashing large parts of Tamil Nadu today, prompting authorities to shut schools in several districts. The India Meteorological Department has issued a rain alert, and disaster response teams are on standby. Due to persistent downpours, the Tamil Nadu government has declared a holiday for schools in multiple districts.


India: Rain lashes Tamil Nadu, classes suspended 

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Chennai and adjacent districts in Tamil Nadu, warning residents of continuing heavy rainfall in the coming days. Several areas have already experienced waterlogging due to intense downpours, impacting daily life and traffic. Authorities have advised caution and preparedness as localized flooding may worsen with sustained rainfall. 


Tamil Nadu Braces for More Rainfall:  IMD Issues Yellow Alert for Chennai 

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister has called an all-party meeting after the tragic stampede at actor Vijay’s September rally, which left 41 people dead and hundreds injured. The government is now reviewing safety and crowd-control guidelines for future public rallies and political events.


Tamil Nadu: Public rally & meet guidelines in focus after TVK rally tragedy

All-party meeting convened by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK leader MK Stalin on Sunday decided to move the Supreme Court against the second phase of the Special Intensive Revision of the voter list in 12 States and Union Territories, including Tamil Nadu. Sharing an X post, MK Stalin announced the resolution and alleged that the intent behind the SIR exercise is to snatch away the voting rights of the people. He wrote, "It is the duty of all parties to unite and raise their voices against the SIR being hastily implemented with the intent of snatching away the voting rights of the people of Tamil Nadu and murdering democracy." "Regarding the confusions and doubts in the voter list revisions - since our demand that they should be conducted after the 2026 general elections with adequate time and without any issues has not been accepted by the ECI, we have passed a resolution in today's all-party meeting to approach the Supreme Court," he added. Stalin also thanked the 49 parties which participated in the meeting to “protect democracy.” "I express my thanks to the leaders of the 49 parties who participated in the all-party meeting and registered their feelings. I request those who did not participate in this meeting to discuss SIR in their parties and take initiatives to protect democracy," the X post read. DMK leader RS Bharathi called the SIR an exercise to "indirectly" do a National Register of Citizens (NRC). He said, “We are opposing this because it is being implemented with an ulterior motive. This is not SIR. This is indirectly getting into the NRC. We are moving to the Supreme Court.” Hitting at the parties that did not participate in the meeting, Bharathi called them “the BJP's alliance.” "We don't care for them. They are all in the BJP alliance. Therefore, they didn't come," he said. DMK spokesperson TKS Elangovan said, “Let the court issue its final order. After that, they can proceed with the SIR. That is what we wanted, and this is the resolution. The purpose of the resolution is that the election commissioners should not act on their own in SIR...” Slamming Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) for not attending the all-party meeting, he said, “What can we do? We had called the TVK, but they didn't come. Many parties had come, but a few didn't want to antagonise the BJP. Maybe that's why they didn't come.” CPI(M) Polit Bureau Member U Vasuki lauded the "democratic process" to draft the resolution. He said, “The original draft of the resolution was corrected after hearing the opinions and comments of other political parties. So that was a very democratic process. Through the Supreme Court, we will wage a legal battle, and we will also go to the people, because without the people's participation, nothing can be stopped. So we will approach people as part of our campaign against this.” "They have already made a decision. The BJP and AIADMK are in the same alliance. If TVK doesn't turn up for this meeting, we can understand what their political position is," she added. While the TVK did not attend the meeting, the party issued a statement, condemning the SIR exercise. "The Election Commission of India has announced that a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls will be carried out in Tamil Nadu. Earlier, when a similar announcement was made in Bihar, Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) strongly opposed it and warned about its hidden motives. Just as we cautioned then, names of lakhs of voters were removed from the rolls in Bihar, with opposition parties alleging that the deletions targeted certain communities, including religious minorities. Moreover, a case related to the special intensive revision is currently pending before the Supreme Court of India," TVK said in the statement. TVK hit back at DMK for not passing a Kerala-like resolution in the Assembly against the SIR of the electoral roll in Tamil Nadu. "The Kerala Government, our neighbouring state, has passed a resolution in the Legislative Assembly opposing the special intensive revision -- a move that reflects its commitment to protecting citizens' rights. However, despite claiming to strongly oppose the SIR, the DMK has not passed any such resolution in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly. Why is that?" TVK asked. The Election Commission of India (ECI) will conduct the second phase of Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls across 12 States and Union Territories, with the final voter list to be published on February 7, 2026, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar said.The exercise will cover Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Lakshadweep, Madhya Pradesh, Puducherry, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court is hearing a case against the first phase of SIR in Bihar ahead of the Assembly elections in the State.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin and 49 parties resolved to move the Supreme Court against the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists in 12 states, alleging it aims to "snatch away voting rights." 

All-party meeting convened by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK leader MK Stalin on Sunday decided to move the Supreme Court against the second phase of the Special Intensive Revision of the voter list in 12 States and Union Territories, including Tamil Nadu. Sharing an X post, MK Stalin announced the resolution and alleged that the intent behind the SIR exercise is to snatch away the voting rights of the people. He wrote, "It is the duty of all parties to unite and raise their voices against the SIR being hastily implemented with the intent of snatching away the voting rights of the people of Tamil Nadu and murdering democracy." "Regarding the confusions and doubts in the voter list revisions - since our demand that they should be conducted after the 2026 general elections with adequate time and without any issues has not been accepted by the ECI, we have passed a resolution in today's all-party meeting to approach the Supreme Court," he added. Stalin also thanked the 49 parties which participated in the meeting to “protect democracy.” "I express my thanks to the leaders of the 49 parties who participated in the all-party meeting and registered their feelings. I request those who did not participate in this meeting to discuss SIR in their parties and take initiatives to protect democracy," the X post read. DMK leader RS Bharathi called the SIR an exercise to "indirectly" do a National Register of Citizens (NRC). He said, “We are opposing this because it is being implemented with an ulterior motive. This is not SIR. This is indirectly getting into the NRC. We are moving to the Supreme Court.” Hitting at the parties that did not participate in the meeting, Bharathi called them “the BJP's alliance.” "We don't care for them. They are all in the BJP alliance. Therefore, they didn't come," he said. DMK spokesperson TKS Elangovan said, “Let the court issue its final order. After that, they can proceed with the SIR. That is what we wanted, and this is the resolution. The purpose of the resolution is that the election commissioners should not act on their own in SIR...” Slamming Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) for not attending the all-party meeting, he said, “What can we do? We had called the TVK, but they didn't come. Many parties had come, but a few didn't want to antagonise the BJP. Maybe that's why they didn't come.” CPI(M) Polit Bureau Member U Vasuki lauded the "democratic process" to draft the resolution. He said, “The original draft of the resolution was corrected after hearing the opinions and comments of other political parties. So that was a very democratic process. Through the Supreme Court, we will wage a legal battle, and we will also go to the people, because without the people's participation, nothing can be stopped. So we will approach people as part of our campaign against this.” "They have already made a decision. The BJP and AIADMK are in the same alliance. If TVK doesn't turn up for this meeting, we can understand what their political position is," she added. While the TVK did not attend the meeting, the party issued a statement, condemning the SIR exercise. "The Election Commission of India has announced that a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls will be carried out in Tamil Nadu. Earlier, when a similar announcement was made in Bihar, Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) strongly opposed it and warned about its hidden motives. Just as we cautioned then, names of lakhs of voters were removed from the rolls in Bihar, with opposition parties alleging that the deletions targeted certain communities, including religious minorities. Moreover, a case related to the special intensive revision is currently pending before the Supreme Court of India," TVK said in the statement. TVK hit back at DMK for not passing a Kerala-like resolution in the Assembly against the SIR of the electoral roll in Tamil Nadu. "The Kerala Government, our neighbouring state, has passed a resolution in the Legislative Assembly opposing the special intensive revision -- a move that reflects its commitment to protecting citizens' rights. However, despite claiming to strongly oppose the SIR, the DMK has not passed any such resolution in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly. Why is that?" TVK asked. The Election Commission of India (ECI) will conduct the second phase of Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls across 12 States and Union Territories, with the final voter list to be published on February 7, 2026, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar said. The exercise will cover Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Lakshadweep, Madhya Pradesh, Puducherry, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court is hearing a case against the first phase of SIR in Bihar ahead of the Assembly elections in the State. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin and 49 parties resolved to move the Supreme Court against the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists in 12 states, alleging it aims to "snatch away voting rights."&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin to approach Supreme Court against Special Intensive Revision of voter list

A cyclone alert has been issued for Tamil Nadu and other southern states, bringing heavy rainfall that is causing significant waterlogging and traffic disruptions in multiple districts. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely as residents face challenges due to flooding and adverse weather conditions. Stay updated with the latest weather advisories and safety measures.

Tamil Nadu Cyclone Alert: Heavy Rain, Waterlogging & Traffic Disruption

Tamil Nadu is on high alert as a potential cyclone forms over the Bay of Bengal. The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Chennai, Kancheepuram, and Ranipet, warning of heavy rainfall and strong winds in the coming days.


India: Red alert issued for Tamil Nadu's Tiruvallur district

Tamil Nadu is on high alert as the IMD issues a red warning for Villupuram and Thanjavur districts due to expected heavy rainfall and strong winds. A cyclone alert has also been issued for North Tamil Nadu, with authorities urging residents to stay indoors and prepare for severe weather conditions. 


India: IMD issues red alert for Tamil Nadu's Villupuram & Thanjavur 

The Northeast Monsoon is expected to hit Tamil Nadu by October 16, bringing moderate to heavy rainfall, especially in Chennai on Wednesday. This seasonal change is crucial for agriculture and water reservoirs in the region.

Northeast Monsoon to Hit Tamil Nadu by Oct 16 | Heavy Rain Forecast in Chennai | CLIMATE TRACKER

India: Three states ban the cough syrup after children die, allegedly after consuming the product.

At Least 20 Children Dead in MP, Rajasthan Due to Alleged Consumption of Contaminated Cough Syrup 

India: Three states ban the cough syrup after children die, allegedly after consuming the product.


India: Reports Suggest 14 Deaths Linked To Cough Syrups, Immediate Ban Issued

The draft has been formulated in compliance with the Supreme Court's 2014 directive entrusting the government to frame SOPs for road safety and post-trauma care


Karur stampede: Tamil Nadu govt assures no rallies on highways until SOPs ready 

A tragic stampede during a political rally held by TVK Chief and actor Vijay in Tamil Nadu has left 40 people dead and 95 injured. The incident occurred amid a massive crowd turnout, causing chaos and panic. Emergency services responded quickly, and an investigation is underway to determine the cause. The tragedy has raised serious concerns about crowd management and public safety at large political events.


Tamil Nadu stampede: Death toll rises to 40, retired judge-led panel to probe tragedy

A massive rally by Tamil star-turned-politician Vijay’s TVK party in Karur ended in tragedy as a sudden crowd surge triggered a stampede, leaving 36 dead and around 40 injured, forcing him to halt his speech.


Breaking | Tamil Nadu stampede: CM Stalin announces ₹10 lakh compensation 

A massive rally by Tamil star-turned-politician Vijay’s TVK party in Karur ended in tragedy as a sudden crowd surge triggered a stampede, leaving 31 dead and around 40 injured, forcing him to halt his speech.


Breaking: CM Stalin orders immediate medical care for victims of stampede

A massive campaign rally by Tamil actor-turned-politician Vijay’s party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), ended in tragedy on Saturday, September 27, evening when a sudden crowd surge left at least 10 people dead and more than 30 others injured in Karur district in the western part of the state.


Breaking: At least 10 dead at actor-politician Vijay's rally in Tamil Nadu after stampede

The Indian government's shipbuilding hub that is to be established in the Thoothukudi district of the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu would be capable of constructing naval warships or cargo ships, based on demand, said Sarbananda Sonowal, the country's Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways. He elaborated that the shipbuilding hub would be capable of building Very Large Crude Carriers(VLCC), which are ships that can carry almost two million barrels of crude oil. The Minister was speaking at the Government-run Indian Maritime University's(IMU) 10th Convocation, which saw over 2,100 students graduatingRecently, the Indian Government announced that its defence firms Cochin Shipyard Limited(CSL) and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited(MDL) have inked MoUs with the Tamil Nadu Government to invest a total of Rs 30,000 crore ($3.4bn) for establishing a shipbuilding hub in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, about 600 km south of the capital city Chennai. On the specifics of the project, it was mentioned that the Detailed Project Report(DPR) is to be prepared. A DPR is a comprehensive document that outlines a project's technical, financial, economic, legal, and environmental aspects.CSL is the builder of India's first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, which has been serving the Indian Navy since 2022. CSL also builds a wide range of commercial ships and tugs for foreign Governments and private entities. MDL is known for building under license the French-origin Scorpene diesel-electric stealth submarines that are in service with the Indian Navy. MDL has also built India's frontline destroyer warships of the Kolkata-class and Visakhapatnam-class, among others.Addressing the Convocation, Minister Sonowal said that India's prosperity and security are linked to the seas, and that investment in the maritime sector is being scaled up to 80 lakh crores(over $90bn). "Today, 9 of our ports rank in the Top 100 ports of the world, our port's turnaround time of 0.9 days is better than advanced maritime nations. We are constructing one of the largest container ports of the world at Vadhawan, north of Mumbai, Maharashtra," he said.Referring to India's share in the seafaring profession, the Minister said that India had 1.25 lakh seafarers a decade ago, and today that number has grown to more than 3 lakhs. "India now ranks among the top three nations in the supply of the highest number of seafarers."Emphasising the need for building and repairing cargo ships in India, the Minister stated that only about 5percent of the Export-Import cargo is carried on Indian owned/Indian-flagged vessels, resulting in Rs 6 lakh crores being paid annually to foreign sea freight service providers.Via virtual mode, the Minister also inaugurated the Rs 305cr India Ship Technology Centre(ISTC) at the Visakhapatnam IMU campus, which will be responsible for the overall development of the capabilities of the Indian shipbuilding sector. The centre is meant to provide a common platform for the Indian shipbuilding industry by providing access to common facilities, skilling of future personnel, providing an ecosystem for ship design, R&amp;D, engineering capabilities, among others. The facility is expected to foster collaborations between IMU, shipyards, research institutions, Government bodies, and create an ecosystem for knowledge exchange.

Addressing the Convocation, Minister Sonowal said that India's prosperity and security are linked to the seas, and that investment in the maritime sector is being scaled up to 80 lakh crores(over $90bn).

The Indian government's shipbuilding hub that is to be established in the Thoothukudi district of the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu would be capable of constructing naval warships or cargo ships, based on demand, said Sarbananda Sonowal, the country's Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways. He elaborated that the shipbuilding hub would be capable of building Very Large Crude Carriers(VLCC), which are ships that can carry almost two million barrels of crude oil. The Minister was speaking at the Government-run Indian Maritime University's(IMU) 10th Convocation, which saw over 2,100 students graduating Recently, the Indian Government announced that its defence firms Cochin Shipyard Limited(CSL) and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited(MDL) have inked MoUs with the Tamil Nadu Government to invest a total of Rs 30,000 crore ($3.4bn) for establishing a shipbuilding hub in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, about 600 km south of the capital city Chennai. On the specifics of the project, it was mentioned that the Detailed Project Report(DPR) is to be prepared. A DPR is a comprehensive document that outlines a project's technical, financial, economic, legal, and environmental aspects. CSL is the builder of India's first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, which has been serving the Indian Navy since 2022. CSL also builds a wide range of commercial ships and tugs for foreign Governments and private entities. MDL is known for building under license the French-origin Scorpene diesel-electric stealth submarines that are in service with the Indian Navy. MDL has also built India's frontline destroyer warships of the Kolkata-class and Visakhapatnam-class, among others. Addressing the Convocation, Minister Sonowal said that India's prosperity and security are linked to the seas, and that investment in the maritime sector is being scaled up to 80 lakh crores(over $90bn). "Today, 9 of our ports rank in the Top 100 ports of the world, our port's turnaround time of 0.9 days is better than advanced maritime nations. We are constructing one of the largest container ports of the world at Vadhawan, north of Mumbai, Maharashtra," he said. Referring to India's share in the seafaring profession, the Minister said that India had 1.25 lakh seafarers a decade ago, and today that number has grown to more than 3 lakhs. "India now ranks among the top three nations in the supply of the highest number of seafarers." Emphasising the need for building and repairing cargo ships in India, the Minister stated that only about 5percent of the Export-Import cargo is carried on Indian owned/Indian-flagged vessels, resulting in Rs 6 lakh crores being paid annually to foreign sea freight service providers. Via virtual mode, the Minister also inaugurated the Rs 305cr India Ship Technology Centre(ISTC) at the Visakhapatnam IMU campus, which will be responsible for the overall development of the capabilities of the Indian shipbuilding sector. The centre is meant to provide a common platform for the Indian shipbuilding industry by providing access to common facilities, skilling of future personnel, providing an ecosystem for ship design, R&D, engineering capabilities, among others. The facility is expected to foster collaborations between IMU, shipyards, research institutions, Government bodies, and create an ecosystem for knowledge exchange.

Addressing the Convocation, Minister Sonowal said that India's prosperity and security are linked to the seas, and that investment in the maritime sector is being scaled up to 80 lakh crores(over $90bn).

$3.4bn shipyard in Tamil Nadu to build naval, cargo ships: Govt

A host of European firms from across sectors inked 33 MoUs expressing their interest to invest in the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, said chief minister MK Stalin. The total value of these MoUs is Rs.15,516 crore ($1.75bn) and they have the potential to generate over 17,600 jobs, chief minister Stalin said in Chennai immediately after returning from his week-long Europe visit that covered Germany and UK.&nbsp;&nbsp;Expressing faith in Tamil Nadu, 10 new firms have come forward to establish in the state, six firms have agreed to collaborate with us in the field of higher education and small industries. Seventeen firms have chosen to expand their operations in Tamil Nadu, Stalin added. The Chief Minister's foreign tour has also come under fire from the opposition, which said that the same MoUs could have been inked with the India-based entities of the respective foreign firms without having to undertake overseas travel. The opposition AIADMK also made attacks that these visits of the Chief Minister were personal in nature.&nbsp;&nbsp;Responding to this criticism, Stalin said that the Investors meet in Germany had seen the participation of several German firms, many of whom were made aware about the Southern Indian state's potential. Referring to his meetings with foreign government officials, Stalin said that the visit was also meant to establish a direct contact and rapport with counterparts in Germany and UK.&nbsp;&nbsp;Further, he said that several firms that are already established in Tamil Nadu could potentially choose to invest and expand presence in other states, but such visits and meetings with businesses help get assurances that they would continue to expand their operations in Tamil Nadu. The single largest investment MoU inked during this visit is with the UK-based Hinduja group for a potential investment of Rs.7500 crore ($850mn) in businesses related to cell and battery manufacturing for EVs, Battery Energy Storage System(BESS) and EV charging stations, that would support India's growing EV ecosystem.&nbsp;

Investment MoUs worth $1.76bn inked during Europe visit: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin

A host of European firms from across sectors inked 33 MoUs expressing their interest to invest in the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, said chief minister MK Stalin. The total value of these MoUs is Rs.15,516 crore ($1.75bn) and they have the potential to generate over 17,600 jobs, chief minister Stalin said in Chennai immediately after returning from his week-long Europe visit that covered Germany and UK. Expressing faith in Tamil Nadu, 10 new firms have come forward to establish in the state, six firms have agreed to collaborate with us in the field of higher education and small industries. Seventeen firms have chosen to expand their operations in Tamil Nadu, Stalin added. The Chief Minister's foreign tour has also come under fire from the opposition, which said that the same MoUs could have been inked with the India-based entities of the respective foreign firms without having to undertake overseas travel. The opposition AIADMK also made attacks that these visits of the Chief Minister were personal in nature. Responding to this criticism, Stalin said that the Investors meet in Germany had seen the participation of several German firms, many of whom were made aware about the Southern Indian state's potential. Referring to his meetings with foreign government officials, Stalin said that the visit was also meant to establish a direct contact and rapport with counterparts in Germany and UK. Further, he said that several firms that are already established in Tamil Nadu could potentially choose to invest and expand presence in other states, but such visits and meetings with businesses help get assurances that they would continue to expand their operations in Tamil Nadu. The single largest investment MoU inked during this visit is with the UK-based Hinduja group for a potential investment of Rs.7500 crore ($850mn) in businesses related to cell and battery manufacturing for EVs, Battery Energy Storage System(BESS) and EV charging stations, that would support India's growing EV ecosystem.

The total value of these MoUs is Rs.15,516 crore ($1.75bn) and they have the potential to generate over 17,600 jobs

With six months to got for the polls, differences emerging from within the AIADMK top brass is not an encouraging sign for the state opposition party and the overall NDA alliance


India: Only six months left for Tamil Nadu assembly elections 

With barely six months to go for the Assembly elections in the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, a storm is brewing within the principal opposition party AIADMK. On Friday (September 5), senior AIADMK leader and former minister&nbsp;Sengottaiyan publicly expressed the urgent need for the party to re-induct its leaders who were expelled in recent years, in order to improve the party's prospects in the 2026 summer polls. He has also set a 10-day deadline for the re-induction of ousted leaders. The AIADMK, once a formidable political force in the state, has been facing a leadership crisis since the demise of then chief minister and party supremo J Jayalalithaa, in 2016.&nbsp;&nbsp;Recalling the party's legacy and its winning spree under founder MGR and later under MGR's political successor J Jayalalithaa, Sengottaiyan emphasised that such a political movement must not get disintegrated. He also candidly admitted that the party is presently in a weak condition and that there is an urgent need to re-admit ousted leaders. Though he has not specified who the ousted leaders are, it is widely regarded that he is referring to VK Sasikala, a close aide of J Jayalalithaa, and O Panneerselvam, a former chief minister and senior AIADMK leader.&nbsp;&nbsp;Elaborating on the internal discussions that took place within their party, Sengottaiyan said that he and a handful of senior leaders had approached party general secretary and Opposition leader Edappadi Palaniswami, with their request to re-unite the party by welcoming ousted leaders. Further, he stated that Palaniswami was not willing to accept it.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Palaniswami can decide whom to reunite... those who have been ousted from AIADMK were in important posts... I feel that they should be reunited...Only then can we accomplish a victory.. Party will be strong only when everyone comes together.. This should be done urgently...," Sengottaiyan said. He also made it clear that if this did not happen within a 10-day deadline, there are like-minded people who are willing to do so for the party. Citing precedent, he touched upon the need to "forgive and forget" in the interest of the party. &nbsp;Both ousted AIADMK leaders O Panneerselvam and VK Sasikala came out in support of veteran leader Sengottaiyan and his bid to reunite the party.&nbsp;<h2>AIADMK-BJP alliance for 2026 Tamil Nadu polls</h2>In April this year, the AIADMK and BJP announced their pre-poll alliance for the 2026 Assembly polls. After having fought and losing the 2021 Tamil Nadu assembly polls under the NDA alliance, both AIADMK and BJP went their separate ways and fought the 2024 Parliamentary polls alone. In 2021, the DMK under MK Stalin came to power, defeating incumbent AIADMK. Bettering the 2021 state poll performance, DMK and its allies swept all seats in Tamil Nadu in the 2024 Parliamentary polls. The then estranged allies AIADMK and BJP have now joined hands to take on the incumbent DMK-led combine.&nbsp;&nbsp;With six months to got for the polls, differences emerging from within the AIADMK top brass is not an encouraging sign for the state opposition party and the overall NDA alliance. Further, smaller parties such as TTV Dinakaran's AMMK have announced their decision to quit the NDA. Earlier, O Panneerselvam too announced his decision to move out of the NDA. PMK, a former ally of the NDA now faces an internal leadership struggle between the father-son duo that are the prominent faces of the party. DMDK, a former NDA ally and the party of Late actor-politician Vijayakant is now signalling its intentions to join the DMK-led front.&nbsp;

Ahead of 2026 polls, storm brews in Tamil Nadu's opposition party AIADMK

With barely six months to go for the Assembly elections in the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, a storm is brewing within the principal opposition party AIADMK. On Friday (September 5), senior AIADMK leader and former minister Sengottaiyan publicly expressed the urgent need for the party to re-induct its leaders who were expelled in recent years, in order to improve the party's prospects in the 2026 summer polls. He has also set a 10-day deadline for the re-induction of ousted leaders. The AIADMK, once a formidable political force in the state, has been facing a leadership crisis since the demise of then chief minister and party supremo J Jayalalithaa, in 2016. Recalling the party's legacy and its winning spree under founder MGR and later under MGR's political successor J Jayalalithaa, Sengottaiyan emphasised that such a political movement must not get disintegrated. He also candidly admitted that the party is presently in a weak condition and that there is an urgent need to re-admit ousted leaders. Though he has not specified who the ousted leaders are, it is widely regarded that he is referring to VK Sasikala, a close aide of J Jayalalithaa, and O Panneerselvam, a former chief minister and senior AIADMK leader. Elaborating on the internal discussions that took place within their party, Sengottaiyan said that he and a handful of senior leaders had approached party general secretary and Opposition leader Edappadi Palaniswami, with their request to re-unite the party by welcoming ousted leaders. Further, he stated that Palaniswami was not willing to accept it. "Palaniswami can decide whom to reunite... those who have been ousted from AIADMK were in important posts... I feel that they should be reunited...Only then can we accomplish a victory.. Party will be strong only when everyone comes together.. This should be done urgently...," Sengottaiyan said. He also made it clear that if this did not happen within a 10-day deadline, there are like-minded people who are willing to do so for the party. Citing precedent, he touched upon the need to "forgive and forget" in the interest of the party. Both ousted AIADMK leaders O Panneerselvam and VK Sasikala came out in support of veteran leader Sengottaiyan and his bid to reunite the party. AIADMK-BJP alliance for 2026 Tamil Nadu polls In April this year, the AIADMK and BJP announced their pre-poll alliance for the 2026 Assembly polls. After having fought and losing the 2021 Tamil Nadu assembly polls under the NDA alliance, both AIADMK and BJP went their separate ways and fought the 2024 Parliamentary polls alone. In 2021, the DMK under MK Stalin came to power, defeating incumbent AIADMK. Bettering the 2021 state poll performance, DMK and its allies swept all seats in Tamil Nadu in the 2024 Parliamentary polls. The then estranged allies AIADMK and BJP have now joined hands to take on the incumbent DMK-led combine. With six months to got for the polls, differences emerging from within the AIADMK top brass is not an encouraging sign for the state opposition party and the overall NDA alliance. Further, smaller parties such as TTV Dinakaran's AMMK have announced their decision to quit the NDA. Earlier, O Panneerselvam too announced his decision to move out of the NDA. PMK, a former ally of the NDA now faces an internal leadership struggle between the father-son duo that are the prominent faces of the party. DMDK, a former NDA ally and the party of Late actor-politician Vijayakant is now signalling its intentions to join the DMK-led front.

With six months to got for the polls, differences emerging from within the AIADMK top brass is not an encouraging sign for the state opposition party and the overall NDA alliance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Actor-politician Vijay rules out alliance with DMK or BJP

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Madurai, Tamil Nadu | Union Home Minister Amit Shah says, &quot;...I apologise to the party workers of Tamil Nadu as I cannot talk to them in one of the greatest languages of India, Tamil...&quot; <a href="https://t.co/qUgd2a4S5s">pic.twitter.com/qUgd2a4S5s</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1931678599817421253?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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