
NGT panel to ascertain damage to Meenachil’s ecology
The Hindu
Row between authorities and environmentalists over the proposed flood risk management in the river
The clash between authorities and environmentalists over the proposed flood risk management works in the Meenachil river has taken a new turn with the Southern Zone Bench of the National Green Tribunal appointing a joint committee to ascertain the alleged damage caused to the riverine environment. Considering a petition filed by the Kottayam Nature Society (KNS), the Bench has ordered the constitution of a committee to inspect the area and submit a report. It comprises a senior officer from the regional office of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in Bengaluru, a senior scientist from the Kerala State Biodivesrity Board, Assistant Conservator of forest, Executive Engineer of the Major Irrigation Department, Kottayam, and the Kottayam Collector. The Forest Department has been appointed as the nodal agency for co-ordinating the study.
Dakshina Kannada groundwater levels in ‘safe’ category, only 45% utilised: Union Jal Shakti Ministry
Dakshina Kannada's groundwater levels remain safe, with only 45% of extractable resources currently utilized for various needs.

Inspired by deeply personal memories, says maker of Telugu short selected for Sundance Film Festival
Telugu short film "O’sey Balamma," inspired by childhood memories, selected for Sundance Film Festival 2026, says creator Nimmala Raman.

The Union and State governments provided support in several ways to the needy people, but private institutions should also extend help, especially to those requiring medical assistance, said C.P. Rajkumar, Managing Director, Nalam Multispeciality Hospital, here on Saturday. Speaking at a function to honour Inspector General of Police V. Balakrishnan and neurologist S. Meenakshisundaram with C. Palaniappan Memorial Award for their contribution to society and Nalam Kappom medical adoption of Type-1 diabetic children, he said the governments implemented numerous welfare programmes, but the timely help by a private hospital or a doctor in the neighbourhood to the people in need would go a long way in safeguarding their lives.










