Governor of Tamil Nadu, R.N. Ravi, Releases 'Sri Rama in Tamilagam: An Inseparable Bond' by Dr. D.K. Hari and Dr. D.K. Hema Hari.
Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi recently unveiled the book titled Sri Rama in Tamilagam: An Inseparable Bond, authored by Dr. D.K. Hari and Dr. D.K. Hema Hari. The event highlighted the deep-rooted cultural connections between Lord Rama and the Tamil region, emphasizing their significance in Tamil history and traditions. During the launch, Ravi praised the authors for their extensive research and dedication in capturing the essence of this bond. He expressed hope that the book would inspire readers to explore and appreciate the cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu, fostering a greater understanding of the state's historical ties to Lord Rama.
The book explores the cultural significance of Lord Rama in Tamil Nadu, enriching regional history and traditions.
The launch event encourages discussions about preserving Tamil heritage and fostering pride in the region's ancient roots.
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Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Jammu & Kashmir Emerge as Top Performers in Food Safety and Standards Authority of India's (FSSAI) State Food Safety Index 2023-24.
Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Jammu & Kashmir have emerged as top performers in the State Food Safety Index 2023-24, released by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). The index evaluates the performance of states and union territories in ensuring food safety across parameters like compliance, food testing, and capacity building. Kerala topped among the larger states, while Tamil Nadu secured second place. Jammu & Kashmir led the rankings among smaller states and union territories. The index is part of FSSAI's ongoing efforts to promote food safety and maintain high standards in the country’s food sector.
Kerala and Tamil Nadu's success reflects strong government initiatives aimed at improving food safety regulations.
Jammu & Kashmir's leadership among smaller states highlights its efforts to enhance food safety despite challenging conditions.
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Karnataka, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu Recognized as Major Beneficiaries of 1990s Economic Reforms by the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister.
Karnataka, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu have emerged as the major beneficiaries of the economic reforms initiated in the 1990s, according to a report by the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM). The reforms, which liberalized the Indian economy, played a pivotal role in driving growth and development in these states. Karnataka's technology sector flourished, Gujarat became a hub for manufacturing, and Tamil Nadu saw significant advancements in industries like textiles and automobiles. The report highlights how these states effectively utilized the opportunities presented by the reforms, contributing to their economic prosperity and setting benchmarks for others.
The economic reforms of the 1990s paved the way for increased foreign investment in India, enhancing growth prospects.
These states have created job opportunities through industrial development, improving living standards and overall economic conditions.
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According to the MoSPI report, Telangana and Tamil Nadu are leading in Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) growth among the top 10 largest states in FY24.
According to the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) report, Telangana and Tamil Nadu have emerged as leaders in Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) growth among the top 10 largest states for the fiscal year 2024 (FY24). Telangana’s robust economic performance and Tamil Nadu’s significant industrial output contributed to their top positions. This development highlights the strong economic expansion in these states, reflecting their effective economic policies and growth strategies. The MoSPI report underscores the substantial progress made by these states in driving economic growth and contributing to the overall economic development of India.
Telangana's IT sector growth has significantly boosted its GSDP, contributing to its top performance in FY24.
Tamil Nadu's industrial expansion has played a key role in its high GSDP growth rate among top states.
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New Spider Species Carrhotus piperus Discovered in Tamil Nadu.
A new spider species, Carrhotus piperus, has been discovered in Tamil Nadu, India. Researchers identified this species in the Western Ghats, a region renowned for its biodiversity. The discovery adds to the rich arachnid diversity of the area. Carrhotus piperus is distinguished by its unique coloration and web-building behavior. This find highlights the importance of continuing biodiversity studies in the Western Ghats, as new species discoveries provide insights into the ecological dynamics and health of this vital region. The discovery of Carrhotus piperus underscores the ongoing need for conservation efforts to protect these unique habitats.
Carrhotus piperus reveals new insights into the spider fauna of the Western Ghats, enriching scientific understanding of the region.
The discovery emphasizes the need for ongoing research and conservation efforts to protect unique ecosystems in Tamil Nadu.
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Union Minister Rajnath Singh Unveils Commemorative Coin to Mark Birth Centenary of Former Tamil Nadu CM M. Karunanidhi.
Union Minister Rajnath Singh has unveiled a commemorative coin to celebrate the birth centenary of M. Karunanidhi, the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. The event, which took place on [date], honors Karunanidhi’s significant contributions to Tamil Nadu’s political landscape and his enduring legacy. The coin features Karunanidhi’s image and is intended to commemorate his life and achievements. Singh highlighted Karunanidhi’s impact on Tamil Nadu’s development and his role in shaping the state’s political history. This gesture reflects the government’s respect for the late leader and his contributions to the country.
The commemorative coin is part of a series honoring influential figures in Indian political history.
The event reflects the government’s effort to preserve and celebrate the legacy of prominent leaders.c
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Union Environment Minister has added 3 more wetlands to the list of Ramsar sites on the eve of India's Independence Day 2024.
Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shri Bhupender Yadav said on the eve of Independence Day 2024 that India has increased its tally of Ramsar sites (Wetlands of International Importance) to 85 from existing 82 by designating three more wetlands as Ramsar Sites. In a post on X, Shri Yadav expressed happiness on addition of three Ramsar sites on the eve of Independence Day. Union Minister congratulated the states of Tamil Nadu and Madhya Pradesh whose wetlands have been added to the Ramsar sites.
These new designated sites are a testament to the significant policy push from the Ministry for wetlands conservation and management in the country.
The country has added 59 new wetlands to the list of Ramsar sites during 2014-2024
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India's First Multinational Air Exercise 'Tarang Shakti' Begins at Sulur, Tamil Nadu.
India's first multinational air exercise, 'Tarang Shakti,' has begun at the Sulur Air Force Station in Tamil Nadu. This landmark event brings together air forces from several nations, showcasing India's growing role in global defense cooperation. The exercise aims to enhance interoperability among participating countries and improve combat readiness through joint operations. Various aircraft, including fighter jets and transport planes, are involved in the drills, focusing on both offensive and defensive maneuvers. 'Tarang Shakti' underscores India's commitment to fostering international military partnerships and strengthening its strategic capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region.
Participating countries include major global powers, highlighting the exercise's significance in international military collaboration.
Tarang Shakti also focuses on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, emphasizing non-combat roles.
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Center approves Parandur site for development of Chennai's second airport.
The greenfield airport at Parandur near Chennai is closer to becoming a reality as the Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO) received site clearance from the Centre. The Steering Committee on Greenfield Airports recommended granting site clearance to TIDCO for developing the airport at Parandur in Kancheepuram District. This project aims to boost regional connectivity and economic development in Tamil Nadu. The new airport will help decongest the existing Chennai International Airport and cater to the growing air traffic demand. With this clearance, the project moves forward to the next stages of planning and development.
The new Parandur airport will alleviate congestion at Chennai International Airport and enhance regional connectivity.
TIDCO’s site clearance marks a significant step toward developing the greenfield airport project in Tamil Nadu.
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Researchers from TN discover new species of snake in Meghamalai.
Researchers from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and the UK have identified a new species of shield tail snake in the Meghamalai-Munnar region of the Western Ghats. Known as the Tail-spot Shield tail, this non-venomous snake was often mistaken for the Palni Shieldtail. Shield tail snakes, a group of burrowing species found in the Western Ghats, emerge during monsoons for breeding. The discovery was published in Zootaxa.
Shieldtail snakes are scavengers and diggers, and they come out to breed during the monsoon. The discovery was published in the international journal Zootaxa.
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Tamil Nadu chief minister M.K. Stalin releases coffee table books on folk deities.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin released two coffee table books titled – ‘Folk Deities of Tamil Nadu: Worship, Tradition and Custom’ and ‘Forts of Tamil Nadu: A Walk-Through’ — brought out by The Hindu Group of Publications in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu government’s Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR and CE) Department and Tourism Department. The books were released at the Secretariat in Chennai on Tuesday, July 9, 2024.
Released by TN CM Stalin, books highlight Tamil Nadu's folk deities and historic forts.
Published by The Hindu Group in collaboration with TN government departments.
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MoD Signs MoU for Testing Facilities in Tamil Nadu Defence Corridor.
MoD has signed an MoU to establish advanced testing facilities in Chennai under Tamil Nadu's Defence Corridor. These facilities, focused on Unmanned Aerial System, Electronic Warfare, and Electro Optics, aim to enhance indigenous defence capabilities. The agreement was formalized under the Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme on July 2, 2024, in New Delhi.
The DTIS provides up to 75% government funding as ‘Grant-in-Aid’, with the remaining 25% funded by the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPVs), comprising Indian private entities and State/Central Governments.
These facilities will provide advanced testing equipment and services to bolster self-reliance in defence for both government and private sectors.
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Distinguished Indian wildlife biologist Johnsingh passed away.
Biologist and conservation activist A J T Johnsingh, who passed away on June 7, has been a source of inspiration for wildlife conservationists across India and the legacy he left behind will guide generations. Describing him as a luminary in wildlife conservation, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin said John Singh’s dedication to “science-based conservation will continue to guide us.”
The distinguished Indian wildlife biologist Asir Jawahar Thomas Johnsingh (October 14, 1945) died in Bengaluru due to ailment, his family said.
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Shyam Nikhil becomes India’s 85th GM: Incredible tale of 12-year wait.
In a sport often featuring teenage prodigies, Shyam Nikhil is the poster boy for patience. The Tamil Nadu chess player became an International Master (IM) at the age of 18 way back in 2010, before collecting two out of the three norms needed to become a GM within a year. By 2012, he had also crossed the threshold of 2500 rating points necessary to become a grandmaster. He seemed destined to become India’s 28th grandmaster very soon, but fate had other plans.It took Shyam 12 more years to attain the elite status he was seeking. This week, the now 31-year-old from Tamil Nadu earned that third norm which will make him India’s 85th grandmaster. His elevation is in stark contrast to that of Gukesh, who will challenge for the world chess championship crown later this year, was India’s youngest-ever grandmaster at the age of 12.
Shyam Nikhil's Patience: Shyam Nikhil, a Tamil Nadu chess player, achieved the title of International Master (IM) at 18 and collected two out of three norms for the Grandmaster (GM) title within a year.
Long Journey to GM Title: Despite reaching the necessary rating and norms by 2012, Shyam faced a 12-year journey to finally attain the GM title, which he achieved at the age of 31.
Contrast with Younger Prodigies: Shyam's journey stands in contrast to players like Gukesh, who became India's youngest-ever grandmaster at 12 years old.
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Researchers at the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) have identified two new species of needlefish named as 'Ablennes joseberchmansis' and 'Ablennes gracalii' from Indian waters.
Researchers at the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) have identified two new species of needlefish named as 'Ablennes joseberchmansis' and 'Ablennes gracalii' from Indian waters. The previously identified flat needlefish (Ablennes hians) is a complex of at least three distinct species. The research was carried out by Toji Thomas, a research scholar at CMFRI, under the guidance of Dr. EM Abdussamad, Principal Scientist. The study focused on specimens collected from Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. Found abundantly along the Indian coast, these fishes are pelagic resources and are available for fishing in the upper water column (0-20 metres depth).
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A new species of marine tardigrade discovered from the southeast coast of Tamil Nadu has been named Batillipes chandrayaani after the Chandrayaan-3 moon mission by researchers at the Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat).
A new species of marine tardigrade discovered from the southeast coast of Tamil Nadu has been named Batillipes chandrayaani after the Chandrayaan-3 moon mission by researchers at the Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat). Tardigrades are microscopic marvels commonly known as ‘water bears,’ although they have no relation to actual bears. The names aside, what makes the Cusat discovery special is that it is the third marine tardigrade species to have been scientifically described from the Indian waters and the second from the east coast. Batillipes chandrayaani has been discovered in the intertidal beach sediments at Mandapam in Tamil Nadu. Similar in size to other tardigrades, it grows to a length of 0.15 millimetres and 0.04 millimetres in width.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is credited with the first landing near the south pole of the moon.
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UNICEF India appointed Bollywood Actress Kareena Kapoor Khan as its new National Ambassador.
UNICEF India appointed Bollywood Actress Kareena Kapoor Khan as its new National Ambassador. She has been associated with Unicef India since 2014, will support the not-for-profit organisation in furthering every child's right to early childhood development, health, education and gender equality. Kareena had earlier served as a Celebrity Advocate for UNICEF India. Besides Kareena, Unicef India has also appointed its first-ever Youth Advocates, who are peer leaders and champions on issues like climate action, mental health, innovations and Girls in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). The four advocates are Gauranshi Sharma from Madhya Pradesh on right to play and disability inclusion; Kartik Verma from Uttar Pradesh on climate action and child rights advocacy; singer Nahid Afrin from Assam on mental health and early childhood development; and Vinisha Umashankar from Tamil Nadu is a budding innovator and STEM pioneer.
These youth advocates are part of Unicef's global programme and join a cohort of more than 93 youth advocates.
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The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully conducted the first ignition trial of a semi-cryogenic pre-burner at its ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully conducted the first ignition trial of a semi-cryogenic pre-burner at its ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. This achievement marks a crucial step in the development of a 2,000 kN thrust semi-cryogenic engine, which is set to enhance the payload capability of Isro's Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk III (LVM3) and power future launch vehicles. The semi-cryogenic engine, being developed by Isro's Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), utilizes a propellant combination of liquid oxygen (LOX) and refined kerosene (IsroSENE). This engine is designed to provide heavy-lift capability to Isro's upcoming launch vehicles, including the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV).
Additionally, the development of a semi-cryogenic stage with a propellant loading of 120 tons is also underway.
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Director Durai of Pasi fame passed away due to age-related complications in Chennai.
Director Durai of Pasi fame passed away due to age-related complications in Chennai. Durai was one of the important voices back in the late 70s and 80s as he dealt with some bleak subjects of human existence. Poverty was one of the common themes in his works that struck a chord with the audience of the era. Durai made his debut as a director in 1974 with the film Avalum Penthane. Durai’s 1979 film Pasi turned out to be his calling card, and it also became a prefix to his name. Durai was awarded with Kalaimamani Award by the Tamil Nadu State government in 1982 for his contribution to art. Oru Veedu Oru Ulagam, Aasia 60 Naal, and Paavathin Sambalam are other films of Durai.
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