a kumaran

India and Vietnam have agreed to elevate their relationship to an Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, setting an ambitious trade target of $25 billion by 2030. The pact includes expanded cooperation in defense, technology, and digital services, alongside efforts to boost agricultural trade and supply chain resilience.

The Tamil Film Producers Council has responded to the Nadigar Sangam regarding profit-sharing decisions. Producers state discussions have been ongoing since August 2024. They announced a token strike from May 2 due to financial pressure. The council insists on immediate talks to reconsider the strike. Decisions were made for the industry's welfare.

The South Indian Artistes Association has slammed the Tamil Film Producers Council's decision to call for a one-day strike. Nadigar Sangam expressed shock, stating there was no official communication regarding revenue-sharing issues and that actors' bodies were unfairly blamed. They urged the TFPC to withdraw the strike and suggested a post-election meeting for constructive dialogue.

Despite high-profile BJP visits to Tamil Nadu, Rahul Gandhi's absence is downplayed by the DMK-led front, who deny any rift. The VCK leader clarifies his withdrawal from assembly polls was strategic, not due to DMK pressure, and defends fielding family members, asserting it's not dynastic politics. He also predicts BJP's weakening of AIADMK and dismisses actor Vijay as a spoiler.

Despite high-profile BJP visits to Tamil Nadu, Rahul Gandhi's absence is downplayed by the DMK-led front, who deny any rift. The VCK leader clarifies his withdrawal from assembly polls was strategic, not due to DMK pressure, and defends fielding family members, asserting it's not dynastic politics. He also predicts BJP's weakening of AIADMK and dismisses actor Vijay as a spoiler.

Among those named is G K M Tamil Kumaran, son of PMK floor leader in TN assembly G K Mani, who joined the Congress last Saturday. He has been fielded from the vanniyar-dominated Pennagaram constituency.

The Congress has released its candidate list for the Tamil Nadu assembly elections, retaining 12 of its 17 sitting MLAs. TNCC president K Selvaperunthagai announced his intention to step down after the polls to focus on his constituency. Candidate selections have sparked discontent in some areas, with allegations of newcomers being favored over long-serving party members.

Ahead of the Assembly elections, state-run schools and Greater Chennai Corporation facilities are undergoing essential upgrades. Returning officers are inspecting polling stations, prioritizing adequate water, power, and accessible ramps. While preparations are underway, school heads are urging for post-poll cleanup assistance to restore classrooms to their original condition.

On March 31, President Murmu will attend the second convocation of Nalanda University at its newly established Rajgir campus. This momentous occasion celebrates the inaugural event at the permanent site, where the President will address graduates, confer degrees, and unveil a state-of-the-art auditorium.