Tamilnadu News Archive: May 2005

30% from Bajaj Electricals
Tuesday, May 31, 2005 | AY

Bajaj Electricals has recommended a dividend of 30 per cent for the year ended March 31, 2005 against 10 per cent in the previous year. Revenue from operations was higher at Rs. 650 crore against Rs. 507 crore in the previous year, a growth of 28.2 per cent. The operating profit has spurted to Rs. 22.57 crore from Rs. 5.02 crore. The net profit is higher at Rs. 13.66 crore against Rs. 10.31 crore in the corresponding period last year.

More time needed to rectify mistakes-DMK Chief
Tuesday, May 31, 2005 | AY

The DMK President, M Karunanidhi, today asked the Election Commission to extend the time limit by a month to 'rectify' the mistakes in the electoral rolls, as many names had been found omitted. He said th etime given was not enough since 'lakhs and lakhs of names' had been omitted in several constituencies like Erode, Modakurichi, Vellakoil, Namakkal and Tiruchengode. He added that the ruling party with the support of revenue and police officials had 'wantonly' done this mistake in order to benefit the ruling party in the election.

Privileges on booking Emirates Airline
Tuesday, May 31, 2005 | AY

Emirates Airlines has gone one step further – announcing exclusive privileges for regular Indian travellers to Dubai for the online booking category. The innovative programme – Go Further – offers additional Skyward miles, as much as 150 percent more, to every Indian traveller flying on Emirates to Dubai or destinations beyond irrespective of the class of travel. The points, which a passenger will earn with each mile when he/she flies from India, include 2.5 Skywards miles for the First Class; 2.0 Skywards miles for the Business Class and 1.5 Skyward miles for the Economy Class. As an add-on advantage, passengers can even earn a free trip to Dubai by purchasing a ticket online to destinations like Europe, Australia and the USA. Other benefits to Skywards members include flight upgrade, complimentary stays at world-class hotels and leisure and lifestyle awards.

New secretary to the Governor
Tuesday, May 31, 2005 | AY

Senior IAS officer Ms M Sheela Priya who has served as Secretary to the State Governor for more than a decade is being replaced by senior woman IAS officer C K Gariyali, according to an order issued by State Chief Secretary N Narayanan late last night. The sudden transfer of Ms Priya, who has served as many as six Governors and seen two regime changes without any interruption, is considered to be significant in bureaucratic circles.

JISL and Terra join hands
Tuesday, May 31, 2005 | AY

Jain Irrigation Systems Ltd (JISL)and Coimbatore-based Terra Agro Technologies Ltd will be merging in the next 6-9 months subject to compliances and requisite approvals. Terra promoted by Vijay Mohan is involved in the business of growing and processing of vegetables and also has a manufacturing plant situated at Udmalpet taluk in Coimbatore. This acquisition will add new product line - vegetable and nutraceutical processing and dehydration to the food processing division. It will also allow the company to increase its banana tissue culture market penetration in Tamil Nadu and Kerala as well as some of the adjoining districts of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.

IP office will function soon in the city
Monday, May 30, 2005 | AY

Final touches are being given to the Rs 10 crore Intellectual Property (IP)office, for the whole of South India, having all the state-of-the-art infrastructure needed for a world-class IP office.
The main features of the set-up would include a Patent Office, a unit for trade marking, and an IPR tribunal. The target objectives of modernised infrastructure, extensive computerisation, re-engineering of procedures and integration of Information Technology, human resource technology, digitisation of records, efficiency, transparency and operational environment of global standards will all be met at the new office.

A tribute to Mother Teressa
Monday, May 30, 2005 | AY

The first-ever Church in Tamil Nadu in memory of Nobel laureate Mother Teresa was consecrated today. The consecration mass for the St Teresa Church at Manaalanvayal Village in Thiruvadanai taluk in the southern Ramanathapuram district was held by Bishop Rev Edward Francis of Sivaganga. The idea to have a church in the village gathered enough steam with the poor villagers pooling in their resources to raise Rs 10,000 and handed it over to a Parish priest Singarayar, who in turn persuaded the Bishop of Sivaganga to contribute Rs 40,000. The idea was well received and people of all faiths contributed generously and soon the Church building fund swelled to Rs four lakh and it was consecrated today.

Allergies and irregular periods are linked
Monday, May 30, 2005 | AY

In a survey of more than 8,500 women, aged 25-42, it has been found that rates of asthma and allergy were far higher in women who had irregular rather than regular periods. The study points to metabolic problems, such as insulin resistance, as an underlying cause for both. The team say their findings add further evidence to the argument that female hormones might play a role in allergic diseases. They said irregular periods were often caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) - a condition where the ovaries have abnormal cysts. PCOS has been linked to a disturbance of the normal metabolism that can be treated with drugs such as metformin to aid the processing of sugars in the body.

Tobacco is a killer of mankind
Monday, May 30, 2005 | AY

As the world celebrates yet another No Tobacco Day on May 31, it is time to remember that we have to completely get rid of this habot which kills millions all over the world. Each time a cigarette is lit almost 4,000 harmful chemicals are released. There is an alarming incidence of pre-cancers of the mouth amongst the tobacco chewing and smoking population. A pre-cancer is a stage where the pre-malignant cells are abnormal, but they are not yet cancer. If left untreated, 40 percent of people with it are likely to develop cancer. The damage that the body undergoes each time one takes a puff is beyond comprehension. It affects practically every part. It damages the eyes as the chemicals inhaled can lead to irreversible damages of the eyes. Oral, laryngeal, nasal, lung and throat cancer, a plethora of ENT problems, damage to the eye - these are only some of the ill effects of tobacco.

Rains in TN, Pondicherry
Monday, May 30, 2005 | AY

Light to moderate rain is likely to occur at a few places all over Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry in the next 48 hours. The weather in Chennai is expected to be generally cloudy. There is a possibility of a shower or thundershower in some areas. Maximum temperature will be around 37 degree Celsius.

Kaadhal Seiyya Virumbu
Sunday, May 29, 2005 | AY

"Kaadhal Seiyya Virumbu" about how love changes its face according to the people in love. Santosh who is a college student in love with classmate Srisha is a nice person in all aspect but when he tries to be physical with Srisha, she breaks up with him. Flash back of Santosh who behaves very oddly goes to his love interest of that time Aswitha who when tried to be physical with him, he had refused which eneded up in she marrying someone else. Newcomer Santosh gives a commendable performance. "Kaadhal Seiyya Virumbu" is good in part and lacklustre in part.

Boycott against IOC
Sunday, May 29, 2005 | AY

Petroleum Minister Mani Shankar Aiyar Saturday drew flak from his constituency in Tamil Nadu for failure to stop the Indian oil Corp's truck with the new owner of Union Carbide - Dow Chemical. Indian Oil (IOC), a state oil company, has entered into an agreement with the US multinational Dow to source Union Carbide's technology for mono-ethylene glycol production at its naphtha refinery in Panipat, Haryana. It was one union carbide pesticide plant in bhopal which killed 20,000 people in 1984. The International Campaign for Justice in Bhopal launched a nation-wide boycott of IOC, calling for the company to give up plans to do business with Union Carbide and its new owner.

Homeopathy for spine disorders
Sunday, May 29, 2005 | AY

Neck which is a main part of our body has many important functions like holding our head which has the brain, pathway of the nerves which emerge from the brain to supply the parts of the body and blood vessels from the heart to supply the brain. Even though many things in the neck could cause neck pain, the thing which often goes wrong is the spine due to overuse or misuse or non-use. The spine made of supportive small bones help us to stay erect. As age advance they will have natural degeneration due to friction on movement. There are two types of cervical problems, one is inflammatory and the other is degenerative due to ageing or disease or arthritis. The results of Homoeopathy in managing cervical spondylitis or spondylosis will be marvellous and dramatic compared to other system of medicines or surgical interventions. Homeopathy can relieve congestion of the spine and compression of the nerves, if there is no fixation of bones.

Accidental death occurs in Dalmia Cements
Sunday, May 29, 2005 | AY

Following the collapse of a concrete conveyor belt gallery structure from a height of 25 metres at a private cement factory at Dalmiapuram yesterday killed 12 construction workers, including five women. Dalmia Cements, one of the largest cement producers in this part of the State, was engaged in setting up a second plant with a production capacity of 1.5 million tonnes per annum and construction work in this regard was underway at a rapid pace inside the complex. Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa has announced Rs 50,000 each to the family of all the 12 workers killed in the accident.

New courses introduced
Sunday, May 29, 2005 | AY

The Gandhihgram University is launching a series of innovative courses for promoting professionalism in the rural sector. Four MBA programmes--rural project Management, Small Business Management, Cooperative Management and Rural Industries-- have been announced. An innovative B.Tech Habitat Technology is being introduced for the first time in the country to produce engineers who could plan for various infrastructural physical connectivity, cost effective buildings, commercial structures, energy and communication aspects in a region. The third set of PG Diploma courses are based on computer technology.

Wealth case postponed to June 4
Sunday, May 29, 2005 | AY

The Prosecution pointed out to the special court to reject the application filed by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa and others for amalagamation of two disproportionate asset cases for being tried as a single case, charging that the accused were making an attempt to "protract the proceedings. Acharya said that being to seperate cases with seperate offences should be having a seperate trial. He apprehended that amalgamation of cases would pave way for de novo trial, as the accused No 2 to 4 (Shashikala, Sudhakaran and Ilvarasi) are not party to the conspiracy in the London Hotel case. The judge adjourned the hearing to June four.

Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu
Saturday, May 28, 2005 | AY

There was a small break before the start of 'Vettaiyaadi Vilaiyaadu" which will resume on June 1 having Kamal in the lead, since he has started acting in the Telugu version of 'Sathi Leelavathi". The former whose major part involves shooting in the US will be a high budget film with direction by Gautam and cinematography by Jeeva. Jyotika is paired with Kamal. They are on the lookout for a new face to play the second heroine. Music direction is by Harris Jeyaraj. Producer is Kajamoideen of Roja Combines.

Mandiran
Saturday, May 28, 2005 | AY

Ravichandran is all set to direct a new film where he wants to cast his son Amsavardhan in it who doesnt have many good releases to his credit. Story, dialogue, production and direction all to be done by Ravichandran in "Mandiran" which will have Misha and Swati as the love interest of the hero. Hope the father can give the son a much needed break.

Ayurvedic remedy
Saturday, May 28, 2005 | AY

There is a glad news for all women out there who are tired of trying out various beauty techniques and yet not able to get a beautiful skin. Solving all problems for the skin, face, hair and hand & foot treatment, Sowkhya, claimed to be India's first-ever Ayurvedic cosmetology unit for women, opened at Adyar in Chennai recently. Treatment at Sowkhya broadly empcompasses head massage, hair treatment, facials, manicure and pedicure and body massage. The medicines used will vary depending upon the ailment and body constitution of each person and will treat the body from inside out. Their prog'rammes include carefully selected and customised Panchakarma therapy, Ayurvedic herbal medicines to enhance the ojus and practice of selected yoga postures and pranayama.

Clinton programme to train doctors against AIDS
Saturday, May 28, 2005 | AY

Former US President Bill Clinton as an aid to combat against the wildly sprading disease AIDS, has launched a programme which will train 1,50,000 private sector doctors in India in HIV/AIDS care and treatment over the next year. He said that non availability of proper medication and trained doctors and health personnals are the obstacles on the way to effective treatment of AIDS which is a 100% preventive disease. The Clinton Foundation established in 2002 signed an memorandum of Understanding with the Indian government to assist NACO in scaling up the government’s national anti-retroviral treatment programme to approximately 188 centres.

Chennai Welcomes LCB of PNB
Saturday, May 28, 2005 | AY

The Large Corporate Branch (LCB) of Punjab National Bank has been opened in Chennai. It promises to provide timely credit to corporate customers and ensure greater operational flexibility. The LCB will handle accounts of large corporates enjoying credit limits of Rs.25 crore and above. Its branches in mumbai and delhi is proud to have increased the export credit to Rs.4,321 crore while Foreign Exchange Turnover increased to Rs.43,080 crore during the year.

Profit of TN newsprint affected
Saturday, May 28, 2005 | AY

Tamil Nadu Newsprint and Papers has earned a pre-tax profit of Rs. 39.17 crore for the year ended March 31, 2005 against Rs. 68.58 crore after providing Rs. 61.88 crore towards depreciation and Rs. 16.21 crore towards interest and finance charges. The post-tax profit during the year was Rs. 37.95 crore against Rs. 52.81 crore. The profit during the year was affected by stoppage of paper machines for 58 machine days due to water shortage in the river Cauvery and usage of more purchased pulp due to bagasse shortage.

Boon for parents
Saturday, May 28, 2005 | AY

To help parents know about the academic performance of their children through a mere phone call, The Interactive Voice Response System (IVRS), has been introduced at the MPNMJ Engineering College, Chennimalai. Another speciality of the IVRS is that information can be accessed in any of the five languages, viz, Hindi, English, Tamil, Malayalam and Telugu. The system will be updated by a special cell comprising management staff, faculty and HoDs.

Parryware in Tamilnadu
Saturday, May 28, 2005 | AY

Parryware, a division of EID Parry (India) which had forayed into taps and fitting accessories market, last year captured a six per cent market share in these markets. In the next two months, Parryware will be expanding its presence in the Western and Northern markets. The company is in the process of setting up a sanitaryware manufacturing facility with an investment of Rs. 60 crore in Perundurai, near Erode, in Tamil Nadu.

Hitachi works with IBM
Saturday, May 28, 2005 | AY

Hitachi Limited, its wholly owned subsidiary Hitachi Data Systems and IBM have joined hands and signed in an agreement to extend the interoperability and compatibility of their respective storage systems, servers and software thus making it easier for customers to install both Hitachi Data Systems and IBM products in their environments.

CM showers more soaps for auto drivers
Friday, May 27, 2005 | AY

With the assembly elections barely an year away, Cheif Minister Jayalalitha showered a load full of welfare measures for the 'auto drivers' in the Chennai city. The goverment gave permission for 5000 more LPG-fuellled autorickshaws in Chennai with the condition that the owner itfself should be the driver. She also announced a loan of 25,000 rupees for buying new auto rickshaws for owners who will drive them. The green tax which was Rs.500 was reduced to Rs.200 with immediate effect. Another important announcement was that permission will be granted to allow 5 persons inside the auto if they are children of less than 14 years of age. The government will sanction 100 more auto stands in appropriate places in the city.

R V hospitalised
Friday, May 27, 2005 | AY

Former President of India, Mr. R.Venkataraman disclocation of shoulder bone and minor fracture after he slipped and fell in a bathroom in Coimbtore last week. The former President was admitted in a hospital and doctors performed a surgery to correct the dislocated shoulder bone. According to hospital sources, his health condition is stable. Mr.RV as he affectionately called is leading a rest life after his presidency ended in July 1992.

C M extends free books to Class XI and XII also
Friday, May 27, 2005 | AY

The Tamilnadu government has decided to provide free textbooks to all students from Class I to Class XII in government and aided schools in the state of Tamilnadu. Earlier it was not available for students of Class XI and XII. The Cheif Minister, J. Jayalalithaa decided to extend the the free distribution to all the students at an additional expenditure of Rupees 22 crores to the state exchecure. 11 lakhs students will get the extra benifit.

Nagapattinam gets world attention
Friday, May 27, 2005 | AY

The attention of the whole world will be focused to this tiny remote coastal area today as the former U.S.President Bill Clinton steps his feet here in Nagapattinam.Clinton's two-hour trip to the town of Nagapattinam as a UN special envoy will involve a visit to the headquarters of the local administration and a tour of the temporary shelters in Chilladi Nagar, home to 622 tsunami-hit families.The shelters were erected with the funds from aid agencies, including USAID, and the Indian government. The facility includes a fire station, a school and a kindergarten. It also has a makeshift pharmacy which stocks medicines. Clinton, who is seeking to keep the world's attention focused on tsunami recovery to ensure the effort is not forgotten, will meet fisherwomen who lost their boats in the tragedy and have been retrained to make incense sticks. In addition to inspecting relief and rehabilitation work, the former president will also view a photo exhibit of the destruction wreaked by the tsunamis. More than 10,000 tsunami survivours are taking refuge in various temporary shelters in Nagapattinam district, where 6,065 of the Tamil Nadu state's 7,941 recorded tsunami deaths occurred.

Karunanidhi and Stalin chargesheeted in flyover case
Friday, May 27, 2005 | AY

The Tamilnadu police chargesheeted former Cheif Minister and DMK cheif M. Karunanidhi, his son and former Mayor of Chennai M.K.Stalin, former ministers Ko Si Mani, Ponmudi and 11 others alleging certain irregularities in the construction of nine fly overs during the DMK rule in 1996-2001. The chargesheet was submitted to a Chennai court by the Crime Branch -CID. The FIR was filed way back in June 29, 2001. The court will take up the case at an appropriate time.

Beware, Biscuit Bandits Back
Friday, May 27, 2005 | AY

They have struck again. After a lull period they are back in business again. The infamous Biscuit bandits who rob the train travellers after sedating them with medicated biscuites have surfaced again. This time in the Chennai Express from Newdelhi to Chennai. Two persons identified as Sundaram and Saravanan were the latest victims. The two were found lying unconcious when Chennai Express reached Chennai Central on thursday. So train travellers beware of any stranger who befriends you in whatsoever way and lures you to share any eatables with them.

Cliinton to visit Nagapattinam today
Thursday, May 26, 2005 | AY

Former US President, Bill Clinton will visit the 'Tsunami Hit' Nagapattinam today. He is in India as to oversee tsunami relief work in Tamilnadu in his role as special UN envoy for tsunami reconstruction and also to look at work done by the Clinton Foundation that has adopted a few villages. He will have a first hand look at the various reconstruction and relief works carried out in Nagapattinam and surrounding villages which was hit badly by the December 26th Tsunami waves. From India, Clinton goes to Sri Lanka on May 28, followed by a visit to the Maldivian capital Male and the country's Kaafu Guraidhoo islands May 29. In the Maldives, he will focus on the "adopt an island" initiative. Clinton will then leave for Banda Aceh in Indonesia — the worst hit area. This is the third time Mr. Clinton is visiting India.

Chidamparathil Oru Appasamy
Wednesday, May 25, 2005 | AY

Thankar Pachan directs his new movie "Chidamparathil Oru Appasamy" which has a star cast of Thankar panchan himself in the lead role,Navya Nair playing as his wife and mother of two children. Ilayaraja had scored the music. Lyrics were written by, Vaali, Mu.Metha, Muthulingam, Palani Bharathi and Gangai Amaran. Story is a remake of the malayalam movie "'Chintha visheteyaya shyamala'written by Srinivasan. This is a story about a very lazy man, who had forgotten his duties as family man, who has a wife and two children.

Thotta
Wednesday, May 25, 2005 | AY

Director Selva with his new movie "Thotta" will hit the screens soon. Jeevan is the hero of the new action oriented film. He acts as a big dada in this film. Priyamani is the heroine of this movie. Story goes something like a marvadi who expresses his love to priyamani gets rejected by her, who then hires Thotta(played by Jeevan) for 25 lakhs to throw acid on the face of Priya mani. But the story has an interesting twist when Thotta comes to the doorstep of Priyamani's house to carry out his project.

Varapogum sooriyane
Wednesday, May 25, 2005 | AY

Debut director S.K.Sami is on his movie with debut hero and heroine. "Varapogum sooriyane" is the movies title casting Thirivikram and Priyanjali in the lead roles. C.R.Rajan is producing this film on behalf of Dhivyakshethra Films. The background of this story is the blossoming of love between the rich and the poor.

Suspicion of a zoonostic disease spread
Wednesday, May 25, 2005 | AY

Incidence of a new type of fever that affected 66 children at the Ramakrishna orphanage near Tiruchy has caused concern among health workers in the state. Suspicion of a zoonotic disease, a strain that is transmitted from animals to humans, but may or may not produce clinical illness in the animal itself is probable. Originally local doctors suspected it could be malaria,later when antigen-antibody tests for malaria proved negative, a sense of panic rose. Studies are going on to identify the vector or agent.

No pressure on the centre for the Sun tv request
Wednesday, May 25, 2005 | AY

Centre denies the allegations that it was acting under pressure in considering an application by 'Sun Direct TV Pvt ltd' (SDTV) for grant of Direct To Home (DTH) telecast licence. In a counter affidavit in response to a PIL filed in the madras high court by P G Narayanan, AIADMK MP and party leader in the Rajya Sabha, the information and broadcasting ministry said that the allegation is far from the truth and has been made only for the purpose of the writ petition.

LG Korea Quit India -consumer product stockists
Wednesday, May 25, 2005 | AY

The Tamil Nadu Consumer Products Stockists Association (TNCPSA) started an all-India campaign against the Korean electronics and FMCG major LG for going against the contract signed between the company and country’s consumer product stockists. The allegations are that LG had collected crores of rupees from the distributors for allocating distribution rights, but later decided to directly market their products. Many of the distributers have spent their life time savings to buy the LG products for distribution business owing to their faith with the LG Company. Some of them threatened to end their lives in case their investments were wiped off.

Apollo with more clinics
Wednesday, May 25, 2005 | AY

Apollo Health and Lifestyle Ltd, a fully owned subsidiary of the Apollo Hospital group, has announced to open 30-35 Apollo clinics in non-metro towns and cities across the country this year to provide day-to-day health care services. CEO of the Apollo Health and Lifestyle Ltd, said: “In the next five years, the company plans to set up 250 Apollo clinics, including abroad. As many as 34 Apollo clinics have already started operations across India"

Arindhum Ariyamalum
Tuesday, May 24, 2005 | AY

" Arindhum Ariyamalum " directed by Vishnuwarthan,is a movie where a good side of a 'dada' is potrayed. Story starts with Navdeep coming to chennai for his studies and ends up with two things in mind, his studies and his love for the heroine Samiksha. At some point, he crosses the path of very big Dada Prakash Raj and his adopted son Arya. He sends his goons to settle score with Navdeep. Meanwhile he comes to know that Navdeep is really his own son. Then we get to see both Prakash Raj and his adopted son Aarya showering love on Navdeep and ask him to come and join with them. Navdeep, who got introduced in the film 'Jai ram' has done a good job here so has Aarya who made his debut in this movie. But Prakash Raj beats the two by his performance. All in all its a watchable movie.

Amudey
Tuesday, May 24, 2005 | AY

Amude is definitely different from other love stories of Tamil films. Akash and Madumitha are living in the opposite houses and they are in love with each other. But both their families are dead apart in joining them together. Family members threaten them, that they will die if both of them marry each other. Finally the hero and heroine comes up with a plan of marrying the person to whom their family decideds and then later in life to divorce their patner. Will their paln work out tis the climax of the movie. Dialogues are effective in many places. The song 'Anbe Adhu or Kalam' in the music of new music director Sunil, along with effective camera work by Sivakumar would make the audience to ask for a 'repeat' of the song.

New Archbishop for Madras-Mylapore
Tuesday, May 24, 2005 | AY

Rev A M Chinnappa, Bishop of Vellore, has been installed as the new Archbishop of the Madras-Mylapore Diocese. The 68-year-old new Archbishop, whose appointment was made by late Pope John Paul II during his last days, was administered the oath of office in the presence of Vatican's representative in India Pedro Lopez Quintana at a ceremony. Rev Chinnappa had served the Church in Chennai and Madurai before being appointed the Bishop of Vellore in 1993.

NIFT on the way of being a deemed university
Tuesday, May 24, 2005 | AY

National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) will receive the deemed university status soon. The institute is already is in process of upgrading its course curriculum from diploma to degrees. NIFT has centres in New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Gandhinagar and Hyderabad. NIFT now offers four years, undergraduate and two years postgraduate programmes in the areas of design, management and technology. In the event of this status, all the students being admitted under four year under graduate and two year post graduate programme shall be eligible to receive a bachelor and master degree in design, technology and management.

BPCL marketting ecofriendly diesel
Tuesday, May 24, 2005 | AY

BPCl is marketing `Hi-Speed Diesel` in an effort towards providing value-added service to customers in Madurai. The diesel has already been introduced in Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. The new diesel works on the patented greenburn combustion technology and contains special cleansing additives sourced from Afton Chemical Corporation, US. The diesel would clean the engine as the vehicle is driven, by cleaning the fuel injectors blocked with harmful deposits, and prevent the formation of new deposits.

CBSE exam results
Tuesday, May 24, 2005 | AY

Students from Chennai have broken a 15-year-old record in the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) examinations. The overall success rate of 90 per cent in the region is the highest since 1990-91. The results of the CBSE examination were declared on Monday. Incidentally, the Chennai Region also registered the highest pass percentage in the country. While 91.23 percent of the 14,198 girls emerged successful, the boys trailed them with a 89.04 percent success rate from among 18,167 candidates.

Anand finishes second
Tuesday, May 24, 2005 | AY

Viswanathan Anand ensured a second place finish after he was held to a draw by Hungarian Judit Polgar while local stalwart Veselin Topolov pocketed the title with a fine win over Russian Vladimir Kramnik in the 10th and final round of MTel Masters chess tournament here yesterday. Playing the most popular variation in the opening, Polgar could not quite equalise in the middle game but her defence was quite good especially when her pieces appeared to be a bit passive.

Cataract surgery without scar
Tuesday, May 24, 2005 | AY

Removal of cataract through a 0.7 mm specially designed needle with the technique, 'micro phakonit' invented by Dr.Agarwal was performed for the first time in a private clinic in chennai. The surgery done by Dr Amar Agarwal said that by making the instruments smaller, the size of the incision in cataract surgeries will be less which will help in reducing the scar after a cataract surgery. Two instruments, called the 'needle tip' and the 'irrigation chopper' were inserted into the eye. The cataract was then cut into small pieces and one by one removed from the eye.

6.2
Monday, May 23, 2005 | AY

V Senthilkumar's "6.2" casting Satyaraj, Sunita Varma, Vadivelu, Rajkapoor, Ajay Ratnam, Vincent Ashokan, Ravinder didnt do as well as expected. Story begins when the character James witnesses a murder during his travel in a train back home. He alerts the cops and they ask him to assist in tracking the culprit. The cops also bring in their star informer Aishwarya (Sunita) to coordinate with James. How the motive and the identity of the killer is exposed forms the rest of the script. It's commendable that Satyaraj, despite such a weak script, manages to maintain a consistency in his performance and sports a new look that suits him.

Education programme launched
Monday, May 23, 2005 | AY

Plan a Career Today (PACT), an education company launched a programme that will impart courses offered by Vinayak Mission Research Foundation, Tamil Nadu, in five traditional streams through 30 advantage centres in the city. PACT will run programmes/courses of the foundation in northern india. Company works through more than 50 advantage centres to provide proper learning environment, intellectual capital, delivery of contents by experienced professionals and sufficient practical exposure to the students.

Indian hair sells high
Monday, May 23, 2005 | AY

India exports human hair worth Rs.1,300 crore a year in various colours like black and dark brown, grey, white and brown and is also classified as straight, curly, wavy and silky. Initially it was a small scale business earning 25 to 50 lakhs per year but as time went by, business shooted high with nearly 40 exporters, including 10 big players, engaged in this field in India one of them being exporter and proprietor of Raj Impex (India), Chennai, Benjamin Cherian.

VIT gets foreign accreditation
Monday, May 23, 2005 | AY

The Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) is proud to become the first varsity in India and South Asia to get accreditation from the Institute of Electrical Engineers (IEE) London. With this accreditation, seven undergraduate and 16 post-graduate programmes of the VIT would be recognised as equivalent to B.E. (Hons) and M.Sc. degrees offered by universities in the United Kingdom. The accreditation, valid up to 2009, will apply to the disciplines of mechanical, electrical, electronics, computer science and engineering, computer applications and information technology.

Jayalalitha reacts to the allegations
Monday, May 23, 2005 | AY

Chief Minister Jayalalitha reacted to the reports of LTTE continuing to use Tamil Nadu as a base for smuggling essential items like petrol, diesel and drugs to Sri Lanka as totally baseless, malicious, politically motivated and unwarranted. Jayalalitha, in a letter to Home Minister Shivraj Patil said that uncompromising and firm stand of her government had brought down LTTE activities in the state to a historic low and that due to her effort LTTE continued to particularly target her putting to the highest personal risk. She said these reports appeared to be a carefully orchestrated plan to besmirch the track record of her government.

Tamilians gaining fame in fashion
Sunday, May 22, 2005 | AY

Hasbro, Basics and Genesis are all men's wear brands made by a pair of brothers from Tamil Nadu is gaining popularity is Gulf countries. The Hasbro group sells its designer lines Basics and Genesis through multi-brand outlets in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Kuwait and other Gulf countries. Hasbro expects to achieve a turnover of Rs.500 million by 2006 and to add 15 more outlets by the year-end. With 25 outlets in India, it plans to place its brands in more outlets in the Gulf countries.

Music release of "Kaatrullvarai"
Sunday, May 22, 2005 | AY

The cassette release function of the film 'Kaatrullvarai' was held at Good Luck preview theater yesterday evening. Bharani had scored music for this film. There are five enchanting songs in this film. After the audio of these songs came to an end, cassette was released. Producer of the movie S.Suresh before the function starting conducted the pooja for his next movie 'Kanukkul Vizhundhai'too.

Dass
Sunday, May 22, 2005 | AY

Babu Yougeswaran who is known foe the scripts of many TV serials is now dorecting a new movie called "Dass" which stars 'Jeyam' Ravi, Renuka Menon. This is the first Tamil film for the Kerala actress Renuka Menon. 'Azhagi' film fame Monica is doin a second heroine role in this project. 'Virumandi' fame, 'Peikkaman' Shunmugarajan, has something new to offer in this movie. The songs have attracted all around attention in the music of Yuvan Shankar Raja.

AIDS requires more awareness
Sunday, May 22, 2005 | AY

AIDS is the biggest public health problem facing Indian youth today with 45 per cent of the total 5.1 million cases in the country belonging to the 15-29 age range. Since the prime route of the transmission of the disease was sexual, it affected young sexually active people the most and their ignorance about unprotected sex put them at high risk. There is a growing need to address the issues related to adolescence among students.

Finding a blood donor is very easy
Sunday, May 22, 2005 | AY

Now blood donors can be approached through web. Members of the Chennai group, can be reached through the web site, lionsbloodline.com. Those requiring blood can click on the name of the place where the patient is hospitalised and click on the required blood group and call up the donors and request them to donate blood.

Talks on setting up of a modern airport
Sunday, May 22, 2005 | AY

Union Minister of Communication and Information Technology Dayanidhi Maran has taken up the matter of modernisation of Chennai airport and other airports in Tamil nadu by setting up six aerobridges for domestic terminals and three aerobridges with the capability of handling A-380s in the international terminal in Chennai, with Minister of Civil Aviation Praful Patel.

Making use of renewable energy
Sunday, May 22, 2005 | AY

Chairman of Tamilnadu Energy Development Agency, K Alaudeen, called upon local bodies to make full use of renewable energy to reduce their power bill. They could bring down their electricity bills using solar power for street lights and operating pumps for lifting water. Biomass gassifiers could be installed for generation of electricity to meet the power requirements of villages and panchayats. It has become important to harness renewable energy sources like wind and solar power as reserves of conventional sources of energy like fossil fuels and coal are depleting at an alarming rate.

Religious conversions through force totally repealed
Sunday, May 22, 2005 | AY

Chief Minister Jayalalitha today countered the move from certain quarters to spread that the anti-conversion law introduced by the state in 2002 was still in force. She made it absolutely clear that Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Forcible Conversion of Religion Act has been totally repealed, and as such the law is not in force now. Jayalalithaa said that the law had been brought only to promote harmony and goodwill between various religions, and not to be used against the minorities. She also promised that her government would protect the interests of minorities at any cost.

EnglishKaran
Saturday, May 21, 2005 | AY

Director Shakthi Chidhambaram is producing his next venture called "EnglishKaran" with Sathyaraj as the hero after his sucess with "Mahanadigan". The female leads will be Namitha and Madumitha.

New ways for Aids campaign
Saturday, May 21, 2005 | AY

The Tiruvannamalai district has a new technique to campaign against aids. Loaded with publicity material and mounted on a condom-shaped vehicle, the ‘Condom on Wheels’ is creating an impact here. Despite the fact that the awareness on HIV and AIDS are on the increase, many people are still hesistant to buy and use condoms. In order to motivate and realise the usage of condom and safe sexuals habits, the campaign has been launched.

Sethusamudram ship canal project in 3 years
Saturday, May 21, 2005 | AY

The foundation for the Sethusamudram Ship Canal Project (SSCP)which would be laid sometime in the third week of June by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh would be implemented in just three-and-a-half years, in one go with no first phase or second . After commissioning the project, 80 million tonnes of cargo traffic would be achieved during the first year itself and this would generate 80 million man days of employment. Denying reports that the project, cleared by the Union Cabinet yesterday, would have a negative impact on environment, Union Shipping Minister T R Baalu told reporters here that care would be taken not to disturb the ecological balance in the area while implementing it. About the viability of the project he said, some marginal losses can be expected in the first nine years after the project is completed, but SCL will start earning profit from the 13th year.

Clinton in Chennai
Saturday, May 21, 2005 | AY

Former US President Bill Clinton is scheduled to visit the city and Nagapattinam on May 27 in his capacity as the Special Envoy of UN Secretary General for Tsunami Recovery. The visit is expected to provide a boost to the rebuilding efforts of Nagapattinam, which bore the brunt of the December 26 Tsunami killer waves that wrought havoc on the Tamil Nadu coastline.

Vigneswara Cricket Club into next position
Saturday, May 21, 2005 | AY

Vigneswara Cricket Club, formed over two decades ago, affiliated to the Tamilnadu Cricket Association, has gained promotion to the TNCA IV division league after winning the league matches between 'A' zone teams of the V division.

Anand in the lead
Saturday, May 21, 2005 | AY

Viswanathan Anand defeated classical champion Vladimir Kramnik of Russia in the 7th round of the Mtel Masters chess tournament here today. With Ponomariov on 4 points, Anand is next in line at the moment along with Polgar.

Chennai reaches final
Saturday, May 21, 2005 | AY

Chennai-based Padma Sheshadri Bala Bhavan SSS and Santhome Higher Secondary School will meet in the final of the first all-India invitation schools limited over cricket tournament for Kerala Cricket Association Golden Jubilee Trophy here on Sunday. At the conclusion of the three-team league matches, Padma Sheshadri Bala Bhavan and Santhome HSS topped with four points each in Group A and B respectively.

Wonders in education never cease
Saturday, May 21, 2005 | AY

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), a pioneer in distance education, has set up six special study centres in central prisons in Tamil Nadu and over 300 inmates have taken up IGNOU programmes. Courses were taught in Tamil and large majority of the prisoners pursued programmes like Certificate in Food and Nutrition and Certificate in Computing. Nalini, a convict in the former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi assassination case, was pursuing MCA course and another convict in the case Santhan was showing interest in learning literature.

Gold trade fair
Saturday, May 21, 2005 | AY

A three-day gold jewellery trade fair conducted, is expected to attract 6000 jewellers from India and abroad. The fair, to be inaugurated by the Union Finance Minister, P Chidambaram, would be a platform for the jewellers to network with large manufacturers, make new contacts and expand the existing relationships and improve their merchandise for the benefit of the consumers. About 45 per cent of gold demand from India was from the south and therefore, there was need for the industry to come together and give the necessary impetus.

London
Friday, May 20, 2005 | AY

Director Sundar this time comes up with an out and out comedy shot completely in the magical locations of London. Prasanth pairs up with Ankitha from telugu as the lead pair. Vadivelu plays the role of a lawyer while Prasanth is youth from Chennai who happens to be an unemployed youth in London. The story evolves around his fight to stay on top without a job. Manivannan plays a baddie and Mumtaz, Pandiarajan, Vijayakumar, Srividya, Nalini, Delhi Ganesh, Mayilsami, Viswanathan are also in the cast.Imman has scored the music. K S Shiva cranks the camera while stunts are by Thalapthy Dinesh.

French Visa application centre in Chennai
Friday, May 20, 2005 | AY

The Embassy of France has recently announced the opening up of visa application centre in Chennai. the centre will be operational with immediate effect. Applicants for a short-term Schengen Visa who are residing in India can now take an appointment by calling the call centre Chennai and then submit their application at the newly opened France Visa Application Centre. The appointment system ensures that the applicants do not have to wait for long to submit their applications. Applicants can also take an appointment online by logging on to www.vfs-france.co.in. They can also instantly track the status of their application by logging on to www.vfs-france.co.in or by messaging Visa FR - passport number - to 7333 on their Mobile Phones.

Mettur dam may not open on scheduled date
Friday, May 20, 2005 | AY

With only a poor storage of 19 TMC of water against a maximum capacity of 93.5 TMC and very meagre inflows, opening of the Mettur dam for Cauvery delta irrigation seems a remote possibility on the scheduled date of June 12th. The total requirement for 16.05 lakh acres of Cauvery delta is 324 TMC. Of this 205 TMC is to be supplied by Karnataka state as per the interim order of the Cauvery Tribunal which came into force in 1991.

Rajini's new project
Thursday, May 19, 2005 | AY

Rajni Kanth after his superhit Chandramukhi is planning to do a remake based on the hindi movie "Waqt" whish starred Amitabh Bachan and Akshay Kumar. "Waqt" became a huge hit in UK that it got the rare honor of getting the first place in U.K top ten list. In the remake of this film, Rajini may act in Amitabh's Character. 'Jeyam' Ravi, in the role of Akshey Kumar and the director will be his elder brother Raja.

Conditional bail to S A Raja
Thursday, May 19, 2005 | AY

The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has granted conditional bail to educationist S A Raja and three others in connection with the murder of former DMK minister Aladi Aruna and his friend. Aladi Aruna and his friend Prof Ponraj were hacked to death on December 31 last at Alangulam near Tenkasi in Tirunelveli district.

Girls beat Boys
Thursday, May 19, 2005 | AY

Girls of Tamilnadu beat the boys in pass percentage in the plus-two board examinations held this year. From 5.72 lakh students who wrote the exams, pass percentage of girl students was 79.3 per cent, boys accounted for 74.1 per cent. As many as 2,611 students scored centum in mathematics and 1,677 students did so in chemistry.

DMK with ideas to boost IT industry
Thursday, May 19, 2005 | AY

DMK President M Karunanidhi urged the Central Government to boost the already booming IT industry in these regions by introducing bullet trains connecting IT corridors like Chennai, Bangalore and Hyderabad. He also requested the government to get the final award of Cauvery water tribunal released on the dispute between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu on sharing of the inter-state river waters and early implementation of the Rs.1,000 crore desalination plant for Chennai city for augumenting the drinking water supply.

Vidyasagar on top
Thursday, May 19, 2005 | AY

Vidyasagar seems to have hit the charts, his compositions for Rajnikant's "Chandramukhi" have wormed their way into almost every aspect of life in Chennai. He has proved his talent once again in, "Kanaa Kandein". The "Kanaa Kandein" cassette contains only five songs. But the quality makes up for the quantity.

Jaya asks workers to support JD(S)
Wednesday, May 18, 2005 | AY

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and AIADMK General Secretary J Jayalalithaa today asked the Karnataka unit of the party to work for the victory of Janata Dal (Secular) in the June two by-elections to Shimoga Lok Sabha and Samrajpet Assembly seats in the state. She asked the workers to give their full cooperation for the victory of the candidates of Janata Dal(S), led by former Prime Minister H D Dewe Gowda in the two constituencies.

Asthma prevalence rising
Wednesday, May 18, 2005 | AY

Asthma is the most common long-term childhood disease affecting over 6.3 million children. A study by the Asthma Foundation indicated that about 12 per cent of children in urban cities and rural Tamil Nadu suffer from the disease. The rate is rapidly rising in pre-school children, allergy specialists say. There is a strong connection between asthma and other upper respiratory tract allergies, including sinus, rhinitis (common cold) and enlargement of the adenoid glands (in the nasal area). It is difficult to distinguish asthma from other bronchial illness among children. However, any child with recurrent, persistent cough must be treated for asthma, unless otherwise proved," Raj B. Singh, consultant respiratory physician, Apollo Hospitals, said.

Launching of the Tsunami Project
Wednesday, May 18, 2005 | AY

The Tamil Nadu component of the "Emergency Tsunami Reconstruction Project" will be launched on Wednesday by Chief Minister Jayalalitha, at a simple function at the State Secretariat in which senior officals of the World Bank will participate.

TN common entrance dates
Wednesday, May 18, 2005 | AY

The Tamil Nadu Common Entrance Test (TANCET) 2005 for MBA, MCA, M.E, M.Tech and M.Plan Degree programmes would be conducted on May 21 and 22. According to an Anna University release, enquiry centres would be opened at six cities across the State for the benefit of candidates. Anna University, The National Institute of Technology at REC at Tiruchirapalli, Thiagarajar College of Engineering at Madurai, Government College of Engineering at Salem, Government College of Technology at Coimbatore, and Government College of Engineering, Tirunelveli will be the centres.

Homeopathy treats diabetes
Wednesday, May 18, 2005 | AY

Diabetes which is a very common killer disease killing almost 7.20 lakh people in India was mainly treated by Allopathy Medicines. Dr Mukesh Batra, a leading homeopath, claimed that clinical trials had proved that patients need not restrict themselves to allopathy itself due to sweet pills used in homeopathy because they could have aqua-based homeopathic pills where no sugar or alcohol was used to treat. He said over 100 cases of non-insulin dependent diabetics were treated with homeopathy and the blood sugar levels had normalised in 84 per cent of them. The homeopathic medicine could also be taken along with allopathic medicines.

Reema plays off beat roles
Tuesday, May 17, 2005 | AY

Reema Sen,daughter of popular actress Moon Moon Sen is out to do a different kind of role which she thinks will boost her acting skills. In a new movie by Simbhu called "Vallavan", she has accepted to do a negative role. She is one among three heroines in Vallavan, the other two being Nayantara and Sandhya.

Chennai Lister Laboratory coming up
Tuesday, May 17, 2005 | AY

A leading corporate chain of diagnostics centres across India,"Metropolis Health Services (I) Pvt Ltd" in the plan to expand its infrastructure is investing Rs 11 crore for setting up a Lister Laboratory in Chennai. Metropolis provides over 1,200 specialised tests under a single roof, ranging from oncology to genetics, molecular biology and immunoassays using best-of-breed and latest diagnostic equipment. Metropolis is a preferred referral centre for more than 1,100 laboratories, hospitals and research institutions across the nation. Metropolis aims at developing its Mumbai and Chennai units as centres of excellence.

Crown Prince into tuning music
Tuesday, May 17, 2005 | AY

Asif Ali, the Crown Prince of Arcot has decided to step into the life of a music director. Having worked for a Hindi movie, Ali is now working for a Tamil film 'Shanmugha'. Asif Ali has composed music for numbers penned by lyricists Pa Vijay, Snekan, Muthuvijay and film Director Yuvan himself. Playback singers for the film include Tipu, Srinivas, Anuradha Sriram, Srilekha and Sai Sundar. The music is said to be a mixture of Classical, Carnatic, Western and Hindustani.

Victory for AIADMK
Tuesday, May 17, 2005 | AY

The ruling AIADMK nominee Mythili Thirunavukarasu was declared elected to the Kancheepuram assembly seat while AIADMK candidate K S Vijayakumar retained the Gummidipoondi assembly constituency in the bypolls held on May 14. AIADMK nominee Mythili Thirunavukarasu defeated her nearest DMK rival M Kumar by a margin of 17,770 votes. AIADMK candidate K S Vijayakumar defeated his nearest DMK rival M Venkatachalapathy with an impressive margin of 27,162 votes.

Elnet Technologies on a new project
Tuesday, May 17, 2005 | AY

Elnet Technologies Ltd, a joint venture between Electronics Corporation of Tamil Nadu and New Era Investments plans to promote Elnet Software City Ltd - for the development of Elnet software parks.
Elnet Technologies also plans to transfer the business development rights of 2.44-lakh sq ft to Elnet Software for a consideration of Rs 16.90 crore to be paid by means of fully paid-up equity shares of Elnet Software.

Thodamale
Monday, May 16, 2005 | AY

"Thodamale" a film directed by debutant Rajendra Kumar.Itstars Uma, Naren, a student from Mumbai Film Institute and also Vishwakanth playing the role of a parallel hero. S.A.Rajkumar scores the music and Jaquar Thangam is the stunt master. Pa.Vijay, Yugabharathi and Muthukumar pens the lyrics. Pugalmani writes the story and screenplay. Trivikramkumar produces the film under the banner Govinda Studio.

IVF Twins
Monday, May 16, 2005 | AY

The Sri Ramachandra Medical Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SMART) through a team effort by gynaecologists, embryologists, geneticists and social workers, had their first batch of test tube or IVF (invitro fertilisations) cycle in June 2004. The first six pregnancies are being celebrated, two of whom were delivered in March 2005 resulting in two pairs of healthy twin babies. Infertility is a threat many couples are facing nowadays due to environmental factors or the stress in life. But the need of every parent to have a child born to their blood cannot be disputed.

Sun Stroke goes fatal
Monday, May 16, 2005 | AY

With the mercury surging to higher levels, one person died of sunstroke in the city. The underlying cause of heat stroke is connected to the sometimes sudden inability to dissipate body heat through perspiration, especially after strenuous physical activity. This accounts for the excessive rise in body temperature and it is the high fever which can cause permanent damage to internal organs and sometimes death.

Leprosy under control
Monday, May 16, 2005 | AY

Number of leprosy patients has come down drastically in Tamil Nadu and there are only 5503 leprosy patients all over the state at present as against eight lakh 25 years ago. Due to continous efforts by the government and by implementing many health care programmes and rehabilitation centres, this disease was brought under control.But the saddening part of the whole achievement is that,even though the disease was brought under control, disease of the mind still remained. Thousands who had been cured, are still living in isolation, due to their discrimination by the society.

A natural barrier against Tsunami
Monday, May 16, 2005 | AY

Department of Ocean Development of Madurai Kamaraj University,after a series of studies conducted in the Gulf of Mannar came into a conclusion that construction of a sea wall as suggested by the Tamilnadu government to guard against disasters like Tsunami, was not enough since the wall itself can cause more serious damage and a meer wall cannot withstand the force of a tsunami wave. So in their opinion a natural barrier coral reef along the coastline would be a far greater safety measure and would help both coastal areas and the fishermen. Corals could be rehabilitated, a measure which would help the coastal population by boosting fish production.

Maja
Sunday, May 15, 2005 | AY

Vikram will be starring in the new movie called "Maja",a remake of the Malyalam super hit 'Thommanum Makklaum'. Asin is acting as the lead pair for Vikram in 'Maja'. Manirathnam is acting as his father. Pasupathi is acting as his elder brother. The same director, who had directed the Malayalam film 'Thommanum Makkalum', will also be directing 'its' Tamil Version 'Maja'.

Tribute to late Gemini Ganesan
Sunday, May 15, 2005 | AY

Paying tribute to the late Gemini Ganesan, A three-day festival, called 'Kadal Mannan" is organized organised by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, held at the Siri Fort Auditorium in Delhi. The five films to be shown at the festival are 'Penn', 'Missiamma', 'Mayabazaar', 'Parthiban-Kanavu' and 'Konjum-Salangai'.

MIOT bags award
Sunday, May 15, 2005 | AY

The Chennai-based MIOT hospitals, a multi-specialty unit for orthopaedic and trauma was awarded the Niryat Shree Bandhu Gold Trophy instituted by the Federation of Indian Exports Organisation for excellence in export. Hospital has earned Rs.22.4 crore as foreign exchange for 2002-03, thus becoming the first hospital in the country to be honoured for its "outstanding export performance." The hospitals, which had now grown into a multi-specialty unit, treats nearly 27,000 patients annually, with a turnover of Rs.48 crore annually.

T N tops in Wind Energy Production
Sunday, May 15, 2005 | AY

Wind power major Vestas RRB India Ltd aims to add 210-240 MW generation capacity this year to double its turnover from Rs.5.8 billion to Rs.10 billion. With 1,111 MW capacity addition last year, India not only recorded the highest addition of power generation from wind in one year but also helped reach the fourth position globally overtaking Denmark. Tamil Nadu currently leads among the states with highest wind energy production and supply to the national power grid. Seeing more investor confidence in India's proven technology prowess in the field of wind energy, Bakshi,MD of Vestas RRB India, is confident that this year India would see a capacity addition of about 1,500 MW up from 1,111 MW last year.

Tamil Nadu under threat of Virus
Sunday, May 15, 2005 | AY

The Tamil Nadu Public Health department today warned that immunising all children below five years was vital due to the presence of the wild polio virus in the environment. Polio vaccine is safer and effective and it can be given any number of times. All children covered during the first round last month, should be given polio drops in the second round tomorrow. Newborn children could also be given polio drops on campaign days and even if a child was immunised recently under the routine immunisation schedule, the child should be given polio drops on the campaign days too. Polio drops given on pulse polio campaign days are not an alternative to routine immunisation. They are supplementary doses.

Anand ends in draw with Kramnik
Sunday, May 15, 2005 | AY

Viswanathan Anand played out an effortless draw with black pieces with Classical champion Vladimir Kramnik in the second round of the MTel Masters tournament. After the draw, Kramnik retained the sole lead, gained from the victory over Ponomariov in his first round game. The middle game was on expected lines as Anand sacrificed a pawn to get all his pieces to exert pressure on the weak white central pawns. Kramnik tried hard to keep his materia advantage but Anand skillfully countered his plans to win back the pawn. There are eight more rounds to come in this biggest event ever held in Bulgaria.

Ponmeghalai
Saturday, May 14, 2005 | AY

"Ponmeghalai" directed by Sakthi Chithran casts Abhinay, Nithya Das, Charanraj, Charuhasan, Vijayan, T S Raghavendra. Movie mainly tells about a series of accidental encounters that Meghalai(Nithya Das) had, and her overhearing conversations she shouldn't have, that lands her to different kinds of trouble each time. Beginning its shown the hero Abhinay finds a wounded, bloodied Meghalai(Nithya Das) on a railway track and takes her to the hospital. After a lot of bungling by all, more so by the director, the film finally comes to a merciful end. Music is credited to Ilayaraja.

A new academy for film making
Saturday, May 14, 2005 | AY

Prasad Group, Asia's largest provider of post-production services, has announced the launch of L.V.Prasad Film & TV Academy. Academy offers a two-year, full-time, postgraduate diploma programme in film and television in the four different streams of direction, cinematography, sound recording and editing. During the two years of study, each student, as part of a team, will produce many short films: from documentaries to fiction, from computerised animation to music videos. The academy also plans to conduct an international film festival devoted exclusively for the films made by students all over the world, recognisng their efforts and giving them a platform to exhibit their talents.

Rainwater harvesting saved wild life
Saturday, May 14, 2005 | AY

When some parts of the city are still experiencing water crisis,tourist spot, "The Guindy national park", under the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, are having happy days owing to rainwater harvesting. The wildlife in the Park has been through the worst ordeal due to severe water crisis since the last three years. Now they said all the five lakes in the park have adequate water, also the north east monsoon in October, which adequately recharged the ground water has also helped the park to ragain the ''Green look''.

Tamil Nadu tops in donating blood
Saturday, May 14, 2005 | AY

Tamil Nadu is in the lead collecting about 85 per cent of its demand for blood through voluntary donors. Tamil Nadu requires annually around 4.20 lakh units of blood (a unit is 350 cc) to supply to hospitals which undertake surgeries. The state now collects around 3.70 lakh units, mostly through donors in the age group of 18 to 60, though the prime age group of donors are between 18 and 35 years. President of the Association of Voluntary Blood Donors (AVBD), Tamil Nadu, R Rajkumar, told reporters that in India nearly nine million units of blood are collected annually from several thousands of voluntary donors, constituting 60 per cent of the requirements. There are 225 blood banks in Tamil nadu - 85 government-owned and 140 run by the private bodies.

Jayalalitha into the fifth year
Saturday, May 14, 2005 | AY

The AIADMK Government completes its four years of roller coaster ride and steps into the fifth year. When she assumed office, she was forced to demit within a couple of months after the Supreme Court ruled that her appointment as Chief Minister was null and void as she had been convicted and sentenced to two years’ imprisonment. But Jayalalitha not being a quitter became the Chief Minister again following her landslide victory in the byelections to the State Assembly from Andipatti. Jayalalithaa had been forced to introduce some measures in order to bring up the state’s economy, which she said had been left bankrupt by the DMK. Information Technology sector received a boost during this period with several IT industries evincing interest in setting up units. Killing of Veerappan,the anti-religious conversion law withdrawn, free power scheme for the farmers reintroduced and the hike in the bus fares and power tariff reduced are some of the achievemsnts of the government.

Delta Airlines landed in trouble
Saturday, May 14, 2005 | AY

Delta Airlines, which had launched its maiden flight from Chennai to New York on May 11, has landed in trouble with Immigration authorities asking its three-member dance troupe from UK to leave the country within 72 hours for violating visa norms. The charge against them was that since they had come to the country on tourist visa and not on a a job visa, they are not given the right to perform stage shows. They were specially flown from UK on Delta to perform on the maiden flight launch function. The charge against the hotel authorities and the event managers is that they abetted the visa violation.

41 Students involved in answer paper fraud
Saturday, May 14, 2005 | AY

Involvement 41 students have been traced by the Anna University in the answer paper scam. The students belong to Crescent Engineering College, Tagore Engineering College, Bharat Engineering College, SRM Engineering College and Valliammai Engineering College. The CCB(central crime branch) has recovered Rs 90,000 from the bank account of Thomas, a daily wager of Anna University in police custody.

Special trains
Saturday, May 14, 2005 | AY

Southern Railway will operate weekly special trains between Chennai and Madurai to clear the extra rush of passengers. The trains will stop at Kodaikanal Road, Dindigul, Tiruchirapalli, Vriddhachalam, Villupuram, Chengalpattu, Tambaram and Mambalam. Reservation for the above trains will commence on May 14.

Chidamparathil Oru Appasamy
Friday, May 13, 2005 | AY

Thankar Pachan is directing a new movie named 'Chidamparathil Oru Appasamy'. He himself plays the hero. Malayalam actress Navya Nair is playing the heroine. In the movie she is acting as mother of two kids. The inside grapewine says, Navya agreed to do the role after many leading female stars refused to play the mother of two charecter. The ground works are going on and the movie will take the shape soon.

Public holiday declared on 14
Thursday, May 12, 2005 | AY

The government of Tamil nadu has declared May 14 as public holiday under the Negotiable Instruments Act in line with the by-elections in Kancheepuram and Gummidipundi. Chief Electoral Officer Naresh Gupta said all government offices including industrial establishments of the government and government controlled bodies and all the educational institutions throughout the areas in these two constituencies would remain closed on polling day. Stating that there may be number of electors residing in these constituencies and working in some nearby areas, Gupta said these persons were entitled to a paid holiday on the day of the poll under the Section 135B of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

Ammend Hindu marriage act, DMK
Thursday, May 12, 2005 | AY

Former Cheif Minister and DMK cheif M. Karunanidhi send a letter to th ePrime Minister urging him to ammend the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955. He said the act should be ammended in lines of the "self-respect marriages", practised in Tamil Nadu, which is done in a simple manner without priests or rituals. Karunanidhi said he would ask DMK MPs to meet him "to get suggestions on this matter". He said the copy of the letter will be send to Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath Chatterjee and Union Law Minister H R Bharadwaj.

Gold sales hit record on Akshaya theertha
Thursday, May 12, 2005 | AY

Aggressive marketing strategies by the Gold Jewllers hit bulls eye as the state recorded a massive 25 to 30 tonnes of gold purchase on a single day yesterday. The speciality was yestrday being the 'akshaya theertha' which is an auspicious day according to Hindu calendar for buying home something precious and dear. The Jewellers pounced on the oppurtunity and started to aggresively market this day as a day to buy gold. The day gained prominence only a few a years back when the Gold Council decided to cash in on the sentiments of the masses.

Chennai-Newyork Delta flight
Thursday, May 12, 2005 | AY

Delta Airlines the second largest airline in terms of number of passengers had its first take off from the Chennai International Airport yesterday to Newyok carrying 120 passnegers. Delta became the first US airline to offer non stop flight in the Chennai Newyork sector."Tamil Nadu region is showing strong economic growth and rising prosperity. It is key for trade and the gateway to south India. Chennai has an incredible market, which remains largely untapped", Delta's senior vice-president, in-flight service, Paulette Corbin, told reporters in Chennai.the tariff of Chennai-Paris-Chennai sector is Rs 26,500 while it is Rs 44,500 on Chennai-New York-Chennai sector.

Sneha- True South Indian
Wednesday, May 11, 2005 | AY

Sneha had recently refused a role which was offered to her from bollywood, she believes that she is made for doing only family characters, and that in bollywood more importance is being given to glamour,which she is not interested in carrying out.

Telugu Actress in Tamil
Wednesday, May 11, 2005 | AY

Aarthi Agarwal, the Telugu actress who had escaped from the clutches of death after consuming poison, is coming into the Tamil film field. She had attempted to end her life because of the love affair with the son of ex-actress Roja Ramani, Tharun.

MERF with new cochlear implants
Wednesday, May 11, 2005 | AY

The Madras ENT Research Foundation (MERF), pioneers in cochlear implants in the city, yesterday implanted 'nucleas freedom',in two children, aged between two and six years."Nucleas freedom" the most advanced cochlear implant developed by Cochlear Corporation of Australia, a government company, and the world leaders in cochlear technology incorporates several new features including vastly improved hearing by which even a whisper can be heard by the recipient.Costing over Rs nine lakh, the Nucleas Freedom also offered protection from rain and perspiration and was free from 'MRI' disturbances.

DMk chief lashes at AIADMK for murdering democracy
Wednesday, May 11, 2005 | AY

Addressing election rallies in support of M Kumar (DMK) for the May 14 by-lection, DMK chief Karunanidhi said it was inconsequential who won or lost, but the values of democracy should not be lost and made allegations that AIADMK have murdered democracy.He also added by saying that victory is not a permanent thing nor defeat, the loser always wrested victory from the winner in the next round.

H5N1 strain in poultry workers
Wednesday, May 11, 2005 | AY

Scientists from a laboratory in Chennai’s King Institute of Preventive Medicine which is a patner of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) have found the first signs of an avian influenza virus in three workers from a poultry farm near Chennai.
Specific protein signatures of the ‘‘highly pathogenic’’ H5N1 strain were spotted at the laboratory, the H5N1 strain normally infects only birds—in poultry it causes epidemics—but now since it has been found to jump species and infect humans, it is really a matter to worry about. WHO Regional Representative to India, Dr Salim Habayeb says there is no reason to panic as India has adequate mechanisms for control of disease outbreaks, citing the effective handling of the SARS incident.

Surya's new school
Tuesday, May 10, 2005 | AY

Actor Surya launched 'Dreamcast School of entertainment' in Chennai. It is the first of its kind which trains and promotes people in the field of modelling, acting, DJ ing, VJing, dance & RJ ing. The launch was attended by top DJs, Models, Film makers and other leading entertainment personalities.

Rajnikanth applauded by Health Minister
Tuesday, May 10, 2005 | AY

The Union Health Minister Dr Anbumani, son of Dr Ramdoss, has congratulated our Superstar Rajnikanth for “avoiding smoking scenes" in Chandramukhi. Dr Anbumani said that his ministry was working towards creating awareness among the youth about the dangers of smoking and tobacco chewing. And Rajnikanth by “not smoking on screen” had helped the health ministry to create awareness. Rajni had tanked the Minister for the good words.

Two new movies by Nayan Thara
Tuesday, May 10, 2005 | AY

After starring in `Chandramukhi', Nayantara is now getting ready to act in two new Tamil films. Both films are with `Surya's.`Kalvanin Kaadhali' a film by SJ Surya is her next project. The other tamil film which she has is with the young actor Surya. The shooting of these films will begin simultaneously. Nayantara plans to complete both the films before September this year.

Karka Kasadara
Tuesday, May 10, 2005 | AY

R.V.Udaya Kumar, after a series of flops has come back with "Karka Kasadara " with an all new star cast produced by Smartline pictures. Lead roles are played by Vikraanth(cousin of actor Vijay), Laxmi Roy, Diya, Manorama,Vadivel. The movie has lot of glamour, action, sentiments, songs and is mainly a triangular love story. Udayakumar is introducing a new music composer Prayog, whose debut venture in Kannada fetched him a State award.

Amuthe
Tuesday, May 10, 2005 | AY

S.Ezhil has come up with his fifth film produced by Aim Productions, called "Amuthe". Lead roles are played by Jai Akash, Madhumita and Delhi Ganesh. Story mainly revolves around the problems the hero and heroine faces after marriage. Sunil Zavier an assistant of S.A.Rajkumar has tuned five songs in the film and a major portion of Amuthe was shot in locations of Kerala like Alapuzha, Munnar, Kuttanad, Chalakudy and Vazhachal.

Delta AIirlines direct link to chennai
Tuesday, May 10, 2005 | AY

Delta Airlines has launched daily direct services from New York to Chennai. Delta's senior vice president for in-flight service Paulette Corbin, praised Chennai by saying that Chennai and the Tamil Nadu region showed strong economic growth and rising prosperity, as well as for being a key center for trade and the gateway to South India. She also added that they are really excited about offering customers this new international travel option and being the only US carrier with a direct link to this important southern Indian city, Chennai.

Tamil in Russia
Tuesday, May 10, 2005 | AY

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will be signed soon between the University of Madras and the Moscow State University, Russia, to facilitate exchange of scholars between the two countries to promote research in Tamil. At least eight students study Indian languages in Moscow University every year and the Tamil department in Moscow University was doing its best to promote Tamil. Alexander M Dubianski, professor of Tamil language and literature at the Moscow University, said, ‘‘Tamil literature does not belong only to Tamils but to all humanity. Tamil scholars all over the world should get together to showcase it to the world and the government should provide the necessary facilities for it.

Chennai in the lead
Monday, May 9, 2005 | AY

13 BPOs who have operations in Chennai are among the best managed 50 outsourcing vendors for 2005. Leading the pack from the city is Accenture at number two, behind IBM Global Daksha, the number one outsourcing vendor in the world. The rankings are based on parameters such as customer and employee satisfaction surveys, comparison with other independent vendors, ratings of client performance and reports from global consulting firms.

New device for Glaucoma
Monday, May 9, 2005 | AY

With Diabetes and Glaucaoma which is seen to threaten India the most, a new diagnostic device has come as a boon for quality eye care, particularly for diabetics. 'Stratus OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography)-3000', a German-made equipment, a non-contact non-invasive device, provides a real time high resolution cross sectional images similar to obtaining histopathological sections. OCT for the eye could be compared to Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) done for the brain and the resolution and accuracy was twice as that of MRI. OCT when compared to ultrasound which travels 500 miles per second,
OCT can travel three lakh km per second.

Plea for a highway by MP
Monday, May 9, 2005 | AY

Senior Congress leader S K Karventhan, MP representing Palani in the Lok Sabha has appealed to Union Transport and Highways Ministry to upgrade the highway between Karur in Tamil Nadu and Palghat in Kerala as National Highway. Karur was known for its textile exports, Pollachi near Palghat in Kerala, was famous for coconut production and allied products. The upgrading of the highway would help benefit all the places on the route and lead to their overall development.

Transplants can do without immunosuppressants
Monday, May 9, 2005 | AY

Creating immune tolerance was the key to successful transplants. Dr Ravichandran Head and Chief Consultant, Nephrology and Transplantion, Kidney Diseases and Institute of Organ Transplantation (KIOT), St Thomas Hospital, Chennai said that if the patient's immunity was conditioned before transplantation, then the importance of finding a matching donor was less. If stem cells from the donor were infused in adequate numbers into the recipient of organ transplants like the kidney or the liver, immune tolerance could be created, which meant that organs from one person could work in another without immunosuppressants. Combined with the latest stem cell techniques, a time would come when anybody could donate to anybody.

IMA with more colleges
Monday, May 9, 2005 | AY

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) by co-ordinating with Central and respective state governments decided to start Medical colleges in various parts of the country with an aim to provide quality education and eradicate several unethical systems prevailing in the medical education, including collection of capitation fees. The West Bengal and Mizoram governments have evinced interests in starting the colleges.

Rural people efficeint as urban in IT
Sunday, May 8, 2005 | AY

Lason India has taken BPO to a village – Kizhanur located 52 km away from Chennai.The centre, Chida Soft, which has five workstations, essentially involves capturing data from legal documents from the USA and coding them appropriately. Lason India assures that quality and productivity of this centre are on par with its urban centres.Taking BPO to villages has its advantages and disadvantages. Lower attrition is a big plus, in addition to lower investments and salaries. The salaries at Keezhanur centre starts from Rs 2,000. However, connectivity is a problem faced here.

No tie up with DMK or AIADMK - Naidu
Sunday, May 8, 2005 | AY

BJP Vice-President, M Venkaiah Naidu having taken up the challenge to go it alone for the assembly elections scheduled in 2006 said that there is no chance for any alliance with the two major combinations (DMK and AIADMK) for Tamil Nadu assembly. He also said that they want to put an end to the present politics of animosity and vengeance and to bring Tamil Nadu to its original position of healthy debates. As a programme to strengthen the party, senior party leader, Arun Jaitley would visit Chennai on May 14 to discuss strategy.

Anna University does it again
Sunday, May 8, 2005 | AY

Anna University which has over 200 affliated colleges, has decided to extend the placement programmes by covering the post-graduate students with a target of minimum 10,000 placements during this academic year. More than 650 BE students both from interior and rural areas have had the distinction of being selected by companies such as Wipro, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Cognizant Technology Solutions (CTS) and Satyam under the programme. Programme is planning to cover ME, MCA and MBA students from this year and to place at least 10,000 in leading companies.

Aloe Vera -Prospectus for Indian Economy
Sunday, May 8, 2005 | AY

The southern districts of Tamilnadu which has large stretches of barren lands could turn into a gold mine once the cultivation of Aloe Vera, the main raw material in some drugs and cosmetics worth $110 billion manufactured throughout the world, picks up. Ramasamy, a member of the International Aloe Science council, says that aloe is easy to raise and that it could be raised even without a fertilizer. Regarding pulp yield, 1kg of pulp will yield 2 litres of juice, which can be used in medicines and cosmetics. The cultivation of aloe-vera and making value added products, brings bright prospects for the export of aloe vera from India, where there are vast stretches of waste land.

DMK catches C M violating the code
Sunday, May 8, 2005 | AY

The DMK has made allegations to the Election Commission against Chief Minsiter J Jayalalithaa for violating the model code of conduct. As an evidence DMK’s organisation secretary T K S Elangovan presented few pictures, where the Chief Minister is giving Rs 100 notes to a child during her campaign at Kanchi.

Ambika Soni meets DMK chief
Sunday, May 8, 2005 | AY

All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary Ambika Soni, who is in charge of the party affairs in Tamilnadu,called DMK president M Karunanidhi at his residence. She said that DMK was an important constituent of the UPA Government at the Centre.When asked about inviting Karunanidhi for the rally to mark the one-year in office of the UPA Government,she said if at all rally is held, there is no question of leaving Karunanidhi out.

AIDS awareness rising in TN and Pondy
Saturday, May 7, 2005 | AY

Behavioural Surveillance Survey conducted by the AIDS Prevention And Control Project and voluntary health services revealed that knowledge of two acceptable ways to prevent HIV/sexually transmitted diseases was above 90 per cent across all population groups surveyed.The use of condoms among commercial sex workers and their clients in Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry has increased from 56 per cent in 1996 to 85.9 per cent in 2004.

SC notice on Kanchi Seer transfer plea
Saturday, May 7, 2005 | AY

The Supreme Court sent notice to Tamil Nadu government, the main approver Ravi Subramaniam and all the other accused, for transfer of the Sankararaman murder case outside the state in response to transfer petition filed by Kanchi Shankaracharya. The counsel for the Sankracharya alleged surcharged atmosphere in the trial court and absence of fair trial. Senior advocate F.S. Nariman acused the state police of their involvement in preparing a malafide case against the Sankaracharya.

Rao acts strict
Saturday, May 7, 2005 | AY

The Central Election Commission’s poll observer K J Rao who monitored the campaign of the by-polls, ordered the removal of hoardings, banners and festoons that were causing hindrance to the public, promised to look into the complaints of poll violations lodged by the public and various political parties and said that reports of violations of the moral code of conduct will be sent to the Central Election Commission.

Indian Airlines offer special fares
Saturday, May 7, 2005 | AY

Special fares for travel to Bangkok from Chennai, Coimbatore, Trichy and Madurai has been announced by the Indian Airlines. The fare is capped at Rs 10,478 and the package would include breakfast, sight-seeing, transfers from airport to hotel and back and all taxes. The move is aimed to bring in more passengers in this sector who are on holiday to Bangkok.

Two more institutions under the H B N I
Saturday, May 7, 2005 | AY

Under the administartion of the Department of Atomic Energy, two premier institutions, the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Energy (IGCAR) in Kalpakkam and the Institute of Mathematical Sciences (IMSc) in Taramani, Chennai - will henceforth function as constituent units of the Homi Bhabha National Institute(HBNI),Mumbai, which has Deemed University status.IGCAR is engaged in scientific research and advanced engineering whereas the IMSc admits students for higher education in Phd programme and supports a vibrant visiting Scientist Scheme.

High Court qaushes Govt. order
Friday, May 6, 2005 | AY

The Madras highcourt quashed the Tamilnadu Government order which detained the Kachipuram Mutt accountant under the Goondas Act in connection with sankararaman case. The judges held that the detention order passed by the detaining authority on the grounds that the detenus action was prejudicial to the maintenance of public order, was without any material whatsoever. The bench cleared Shankar Iyer and 10 others booked under Goondas Act by the tamilnadu government order. The bench passed the order after allowing the 'Habeas Corpus' filed by the relatives of Iyer and others. The court observed that the Police had neither collected nor placed any material before the detaining authority to arrive at subjective satisfaction that due to the September 3, 2004, murder of Sankararaman, there was disturbance to public order or that the tempo of life had been greatly affected.

Tamil Nadu still a base for LTTE
Thursday, May 5, 2005 | AY

According to the latest report of Union Home Ministry, he banned LTTE continues to use Tamil Nadu as a base for carrying out smuggling of essential items like petrol, diesel and drugs to Sri Lanka. The report for 2004-05, which was released recently, said notwithstanding the current peace process, the LTTE was yet to give up violence as a means to achieve its goal of establishing a separate homeland for Tamils. "The LTTE continues to use the state of Tamil Nadu as a base for carrying out smuggling of essential items like petrol, diesel besides drugs to Sri Lanka," the report said. The report termed LTTE as an "extremely potent, most lethal and well-organised terrorist force in Sri Lanka" having strong connections in Tamil Nadu and certain pockets of southern India.

President arrives in Chennai.
Thursday, May 5, 2005 | AY

President of India Dr.A.P.J.Abdul Kalam arrived in Chennai on Wednesday by a special IAF aircraft.Law Minister D Jayakumar, Chief Secretary N Narayanan and Director General of Police A X Alexander received him at the Chennai Airport. He then went to Sriharikota, where he dedicated to the nation the Indian Space Research Organisation’s second launchpad. The President is expected to be present in the ceremony to launch PSLV-C6 on Thursday. PSLV-C6 will carry indegeneously made satalite CARTOSAT-I to the orbit.

Solli Adippen
Thursday, May 5, 2005 | AY

Solli Adippen is directed by the noted art director Ramki. This is his directorial debut. Vivek plays the hero while Chaya Singh is the heroine. The movie is produced by Krishnakanth. the film shooting was disrupted for a long time in between due to some problems. Others in the cast include Tejashri, Asish Vidyarthi, Delhi Ganesh, Chinni Jayanth and Mayilsamy. Deva is scoring the music to the lyrics of Pa Vijay and Kalaikumar. Dinesh is in-charge of choreography, while 'Jaguar' Thangam handles the stunts. Vivek said , he acting as hero in Solli Adippen doesnt mean he will stop doing comedy roles all together. He hopes his debut as hero will bring in more name and accolades.

Pudhupettai
Thursday, May 5, 2005 | AY

Director Selvaraghavan is coming to the rescue of his brother Dhanush with a new movie Pudhupettai. The hero Dhanush sports a new look in this movie. Sonia Agrawal is the female lead with Sneha also in another important role. The movie is produced by Lakshmi Movie Makers. The cinematography is by Aravindh Krishna and music by Yuvan Shankar Raja. Dhanush's earlier movie with his brother was both big hits, Thulluvatho Illamai and Kadhal Kondein.

Jithan
Thursday, May 5, 2005 | AY

Aysha:
R.B.Choudhary's son, Ramesh makes his debut as actor in the movie produced by two big banners, Radaan and Super Good Films. Vincent Selva is the director and he handles the screen play as well. The story is confined to the happenings of one week. The movie was shot in Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangkok and 30 different locations. Pooja is the female lead and Sharath Kumar plays a guest role. Kalabhavan Mani, S Ve Shekher, Livingstone, Nalini and Mukesh are in the supporting cast. The story is by Ramgopal Verma; music by Srikanth Deva; editing by Sadagopan Ramesh and stunt by Anal Arasu. The inside reports say the movie will be a overall entertainer.

Cartosat-I to help town planning
Wednesday, May 4, 2005 | AY

Aysha:

The launch of PSLV C6 with its remote sensing satellite Cartosat-I, can pinpoint areas of air pollution, water contamination and other environment hazards thus contributing to environment protection and bio-conservation. It can obtain high-resolution photographs of places , assess the intensity of pollution, can provide three-dimensional maps,also it will help in proper town planning process which inturn will ensure laying of more effective sewerage systems.

SC give permission for Jaya Arches
Wednesday, May 4, 2005 | AY

Aysha:

Tamil Nadu Government received notice issued by the Supreme Court giving them permission for the construction of two arches on state highways in commemoration of the 57th birthday of Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa after a petition received by the court stating that construction of the arches on the Thuraiyur-Perambalur road and Thuraimangalam-Bunglow road was violative of the rules and would disrupt traffic.

Take up responsibility, Ramdoss.
Wednesday, May 4, 2005 | AY

Aysha:

Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) founder S Ramadoss urged political parties in Tamil Nadu to fight for the state's rights on issues like Cauvery water. He also made allegations against Chief Minister J.Jayalalithaa for not taking necessary steps during the last 4 years in protecting the interest of the state. He also warned by saying that if responsibilities are not taken up, Tamilnadu would soon turn into a "desert".

Jayalalithaa lashes at DMK
Wednesday, May 4, 2005 | AY

Aysha:

Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa during a campaign trail in Kancheepuram lashed out at the DMK and their allies by saying that these seven parties who are in opposition have made no contribution towards the development of the state, on the contrary they have troubled the people by hiking petrol and diesel prices as many as three times. She also added that despite of the increase in fuel prices AIADMK government had not increased the bus fare. Repeatedly, she called upon the cheering crowds to vote for the AIADMK for the welfare of the state.

Storm hits Tamil nadu.
Wednesday, May 4, 2005 | AY

Aysha:

A freak storm said to be the tail-end of a cyclone, hit Tamil Nadu, especially Chennai city killing five and injuring atleast half a dozen people. Nearly 200 trees and at least 50 hoardings were uprooted and the power supply was disrupted in 70 percent of the areas.

USD 465 mn loan by World Bank
Wednesday, May 4, 2005 | AY

Aysha:

The World Bank, to help the victims of Tsunami in Tamilnadu and Pondicherry released a 465 million US dollar loan for the reconstruction and recovery efforts. The emergency tsunami reconstruction project in addition to assisting with the reconstruction of public buildings, aim at revival of livelihoods in fisheries and agriculture. It also looks forward at all aspects of development to ensure that vulnerabilities are not rebuilt.

"Kanaa Kanden"
Tuesday, May 3, 2005 | AY

Aysha:

Actor Srikanth's next venture is a romantic movie called "Kanaa Kanden" produced by Thenappan and directed by National award winner cinematographer-turned-director K V Anand.Gopika plays the heros love interest.Prithiviraj, is entering Tamil as a villian.Melodious tunes of this movie is by Vidyasagar.Other supporting cast includes Suresh, Ratthan, Vanitha, Geethalakshmi, Amitha, Lavanya, Shalini and Hema.

Anniyan
Tuesday, May 3, 2005 | AY

Aysha:

Director Shankar next movie called "ANNIYAN" stars Vikram , in the lead role.His father's role is played by Nedumudi Venu.Yana Gupta sizzles in an item-number. Sabu Cyril is the art director.All in all the movie has many visual surprises in store.

"Chevalier" award for Balamuralikrishna
Tuesday, May 3, 2005 | AY

Aysha:

Dr M Balamuralikrishna,veteran carnatic musician has been selected for the "Chevalier" award by the French government. He will be the first Carnatic musician and second from South India to get this honour after legendary actor, the late "Sivaji" Ganesan. The award is being conferred on him for his distinguished contribution to the field of arts and music

Tsunami employment scheme
Tuesday, May 3, 2005 | AY

Aysha:

CEETR ,a non governmental organization demanded a Tsunami employment guarantee scheme for the affected persons by the Tamil Nadu government. They said the govt should evolve through self governance and not depend on any private institutions.Main demands were for permenent houses to be built for fishing communities,and a job guarantee of 20 days a month.CEETR also said that there is some flaw in the CM's relief fund and gaps in procedure formulation and policy implementation.

EC appoints special observer for TN bypolls
Tuesday, May 3, 2005 | AY

Aysha:

Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Naresh Gupta said that the Commission had appointed Mr K J Rao as special observer for May 14 by-elections in Kancheepuram and Gummidipoondi. Mr.Rao has been appointed following reports of large scale violation of the model code of conduct,and to ensure steps for free and fair polls .

Union between CAP and NCA
Tuesday, May 3, 2005 | AY

Aysha:

National Cricket Academy has sent two of its coaches to pondicherry organised by the Cricket Association of Pondicherry (CAP)as part of the BCCI's New Areas Development Programme (NADP) .This union between CAP and NCA was not liked by the Pondicherry Cricket Association (PCA), which is a district affiliate of the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA)because of their rivalry.BCCI joint secretary, Gautam Dasgupta, did not see this as a move that validates CAP as a
body and added that our intention is to promote cricket.

M.Tech in Nano Technology
Tuesday, May 3, 2005 | AY

Aysha:

Shanmugha Arts,Science,Technology & Research Academy (SASTRA)sets to offer the first-ever M.Tech in Nano-technology from the forthcoming academic year 2005-06. Academy would shortly sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the University of Arkansas to enter into a collaboration to offer the specialised programme. Candidates with B.Tech in bio-technology, bio-medical engineering and chemical engineering and M.Sc in bio-chemistry are eligible to apply for the 25 seats before June 30

Case is closed for P Nedumaran
Tuesday, May 3, 2005 | AY

Aysha:

Two separate cases booked under anti-terrorism law against Tamil National Movement leaders, including its chief,P Nedumaran is asked to be closed by the state from the the review committee on POTA .Nedumaran and four others were alleged that their speech delivered,amounted to supporting the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, banned under POTA and TNM general secretary Paranthaman for his alleged interview to a private channel criticising the Jayalalitha government for its anti-tigers stand.However, the commitee said the accused persons made the speeches primarily to support the cause of Tamils.

Veyttayadu Vilayadu
Monday, May 2, 2005 | AY

Aysha:
Kamal Hassan has a new movie coming up named "Veyttayadu Vilayadu", where he plays the role of a cop. Jyothika after their last hit Thenali will be teaming up with Kamal in this movie. The movie is directed by Gautham who did 'Kakka kakka'.

Sorry Ennakkku Kalyanam Aayidichu
Monday, May 2, 2005 | AY

Aysha:

Sriman,Swarnamalya and Flora are the cast for this new movie which is a telugu remake. In a nut shell it tells about how far one's friends should be allowed in one's life after marriage.

Actor turned director
Monday, May 2, 2005 | AY

Aysha:
A well known actor,Anand Babu who was one of the leading actors in the 80's has now joined director Charan as an assistant in ‘Idhaya Thirudan’.He entered the film industry as a vilian and was well known for his dancing skills.

Vikram-New Ambassador of Coke
Monday, May 2, 2005 | AY

Aysha:
Vikram has replaced Vijay as the new ambassador of Coke in South India.Since the commercial is targetted for South Indian consumers, Vikram, who has a presence in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh,Kerala have been chosen.

Taxi Driver
Monday, May 2, 2005 | AY

Aysha:

Superstar Prashanth's new release " Taxi Driver " tells about the life and difficulties of a taxi driver. Movie has its share of romance and action. Margan, assistant of Gautham Menon debuts as the director.

Hyundai sets up auto-design facility
Monday, May 2, 2005 | AY

Aysha:
Korean automobile major Hyundai Motor Co which is building a second assembly plant in India through its subsidiary Hyundai Motor India, is looking to set up an automobile design facility in Chennai. The move is part of Hyundai Motor Co's major investment into India, which it regards as one of its key global manufacturing centres.

Unfair play: DMK Chief
Monday, May 2, 2005 | AY

Aysha:
DMK president M Karunanidhi claims that the issue of a new international airport in Chennai got the nod from the centre due to the joint efforts of the ruling and opposition parties in Tamil Nadu. He said he had raised the issue long back with the then Prime Minister A.B Vajpayee in 1998.He claimed that the efforts taken by him and 12 central ministers from state was forgotten and credit of the clearence was taken by Chief Minister Jayalalitha.

Sevvel
Sunday, May 1, 2005 | GP

GPA:

Rajkiran comes back after a while in Sevvel.The story centres on the emotional bonding between father and son. Primose does an all in one by directing, script writing, camera and producing the movie.The script has quite a few flawsbut Primose should be appreciated for making an effort to be different from the routine stuff. Its a movie worth watching.

Mumbai Xpress
Sunday, May 1, 2005 | GP

GPA:
Kamal Hassan comes with out and out comedy in Mumbai Xpress and it is his film all the way. He acts as Avinasi , alias Mumbai Xpress , a deaf stunt man who does dare delivery bike acts.The whole story runs along a kidnap plan. The climax is a rip roaring one.Kamal's dialogues and screenplay deserve special mention as they make you laugh all through. Manisha Koirala , Master Hardhik,Pasupati,Ramesh Arvind, Nasser and Vaiyapuri form the supporting cast. Illayaraja is background score . Cinematography by Siddharth is pacy. All in all a must watch movie if you are a Kamal fan.

Campaigning in Kancheepuram picking up
Sunday, May 1, 2005 | AY

Aysha:
Eight state Ministers are camping in the constituency for campaigning for the AIADMK woman candidate Maithili, wife of late MLA, S S Thirunavukkarasu, while DMK deputy general secretary and party's star campaigner M K Stalin is already here to campaign for DMK's P M Kumar
The by-election had been caused by the death of Thirunavukkarasu of the AIADMK

BJP alone in TN assembly polls, Adwani
Sunday, May 1, 2005 | AY

Aysha:
The BJP will go it alone in next year's assembly elections in Tamil Nadu, its president L K Advani said.The party's parliamentary board, at its meeting two days ago at New Delhi, had taken a decision in this regard, he told the BJP's state-level convention.The decision to go it alone did not mean that the party had lost faith in alliance politics. BJP had aligned with both the major regional parties in the state in the past.

Nano Tech and Nano Sciences centre
Sunday, May 1, 2005 | AY

Aysha:
Giving a priority for programmes in the area of cutting edge Nano Technology and Nano Sciences, Madras University plans to set up a Rs 17 crore Nano Technology and Nano Sciences centre here.A proposal to this effect was awaiting clearance from the Tamil Nadu Government, University.The nano technology and science programmes would be a collaboration with two other oldest universities in the country, Mumbai and Kolkata . Madras University would concentrate on nano biometrics, Kolkata on nano-chemical materials and Mumbai on nano-nuclear materials.

Rose named after Jaya attracts tourists
Sunday, May 1, 2005 | AY

Aysha:
A rare rose variety named after Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa and on display at the main entrance of the famous Botanical Garden in this hill resort town has become a hit with tourists.A large number of tourists, especially from outside Tamil Nadu, are keen to take their photograph alongside the special pink rose named after Jayalalitha.

News Archives 2005 2004 2003 2002