✅ Kollam local bodies get plan amendments approval

The District Planning Committee (Ad-hoc) approved annual Plan amendments for all 85 local self-government institutions in Kollam district. This covers 68 grama panchayats, 11 block panchayats, four municipalities, the district panchayat, and the Kollam Corporation. The committee directed authorities to reduce liabilities for 2026–27 projects, prioritizing areas like ABC and special needs scholarships. Local institutions must fix insufficient funding for the Jeevanam project in the next amendment cycle. Furthermore, DPC-cleared projects need immediate technical vetting before implementation begins.

🏛️ Fadnavis orders audit over temple donation controversy

A political storm erupted regarding the Siddhivinayak Temple's donations after MNS chief Raj Thackeray alleged misappropriation of around ₹18 crore annually. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis subsequently ordered a comprehensive probe into the temple's finances. This audit is set to cover the last five years of the temple's records. The controversy is ongoing, especially after temple employees faced arrests related to theft accusations. The investigation will scrutinize the temple's accounts to clarify the donation claims.

🏛️ Kerala Pension Shift Sparks Debate

Former Kerala Finance Minister T.M. Thomas Isaac demanded the immediate rollback of the UDF government's decision to move welfare pension distribution fully to DBT. He stated this was done despite 23 lakh beneficiaries opting for the DTH mode through cooperative sector institutions. Previously, the LDF government used DBT for 8 lakh beneficiaries receiving a Central share. Isaac claimed the state government's claim about losing Central financial assistance is baseless and unconsulted. He urged the government to resolve distribution issues through discussion instead of denying service. 💰

🛡️ IAF Officer Arrested Over Military Info Leak

An Indian Air Force officer has been detained following allegations of leaking sensitive military information. The incident involves the officer being honey-trapped by an operative from Pakistani intelligence. The breach reportedly occurred sometime before the current date, involving classified defense data. This espionage case highlights the security risks within military institutions. Authorities are currently investigating the extent of the compromised information. 🛡️

🚇 Namma Metro gets nod for new signalling system

The Railway Board has given in-principle approval for the CBTC signalling system for Namma Metro's Pink Line and the entire Blue Line. This clearance covers the Pink Line between Kalena Agrahara and Tavarekere, and the Blue Line from Central Silk Board to Kempegowda International Airport. The approval clears a pending milestone for the Pink Line and allows for early testing of the Blue Line. BMRCL will now complete interim speed certification, statutory inspections, and trial runs for the Pink Line. The metro aims to finalize these remaining steps to open the lines for the public soon. 🚇

🏛️ Chidambaram demands protection for Tamil Nadu's seats

O.P. Chidambaram has strongly stated that the parliamentary representation of Tamil Nadu must be protected against any changes. He made these remarks while addressing the ongoing delimitation row across the country. The issue pertains to the redrawing of constituencies, with specific focus on Tamil Nadu's political voice. Chidambaram emphasized the need to safeguard the state's interests during this process. He is calling for a review to ensure Tamil Nadu maintains its rightful standing in the Lok Sabha.

😢 Tragic school shooting rocks Thailand 💔

A deadly school shooting incident took place in Thailand, causing significant alarm across the nation. The attack occurred at a school campus, resulting in multiple casualties. Reports indicate that as of the incident, several students and staff were injured or killed. Authorities are currently investigating the motives behind this brutal act of violence. The focus now shifts to providing support to the affected community and ensuring safety measures are reviewed.

🏏 Trent Rockets smash MI London to reach knockouts

Trent Rockets secured their spot in The Hundred knockouts by defeating MI London at The Oval. The Rockets, led by Sciver-Brunt, won by nine wickets after chasing 122 for victory. Sciver-Brunt scored a stylish unbeaten 67 off 36 balls, marking her 11th The Hundred fifty. This win puts the Rockets four points above Southern Brave, who they face next Monday. With a better net run-rate, the Rockets seem positioned for the final. 🏆

🔬 200-Year Lifespan Possible? Cell Damage is the Hurdle

Researchers suggest that human lifespan could potentially reach close to 200 years. This possibility stems from ongoing scientific studies into human biology. Specific details regarding the research scope or dates were not provided in the source material. However, accumulated cellular damage is identified as the primary limiting factor in longevity. Future research will likely focus on mitigating this cellular degradation to extend human life.

💰 Andhra Pradesh spent ₹2.83 lakh crore on welfare

The Andhra Pradesh government spent a massive ₹1.49 lakh crore on public welfare and ₹1.34 lakh crore on development activities. Social Welfare Minister Dola Sree Bala Veeranjaneya Swamy announced this while at Paletipadu village in Prakasam district. During this two-year period, the state attracted over ₹23 lakh crore in investments. The current administration also cleared ₹19,357 crore in pending bills from the previous government. This spending aims to show the development path under the current leadership. 📈

🏏 Padikkal shines, eyeing No. 3 spot in Tests 🏏

Devdutt Padikkal scored a century in the tour match against Sri Lanka Cricket XI at NCC. He played for India, facing immediate pressure after Yashasvi Jaiswal's early dismissal. This innings featured 103 runs off 121 balls and a subsequent knock, showcasing great awareness. His recent domestic dominance includes 556 runs in the 2023-24 Ranji Trophy. With Sai Sudharsan out, Padikkal presents a compelling, ready replacement for the team management.