TVS Crosses 5 Lakh Milestone

For the first time in its history, TVS Motor crossed the five lakh monthly sales mark, registering 509,536 units, up 30% year-on-year.

• Domestic sales: 368,862 units (+28%)

• Exports: 121,926 units (+36%)

This puts TVS in the exclusive half-million club, joining Hero MotoCorp and Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI).

Royal Enfield’s 55% Surge

Eicher Motors-owned Royal Enfield reported a stunning 55% growth, selling 114,002 motorcycles in August 2025.

• Domestic sales: 102,876 units (+57%)

• Exports: 11,126 units (+39%)

CEO B. Govindarajan credited the momentum to festive demand and strong response to new launches like the Hunter 350 and Guerrilla 450.

Industry Peers

• Hero MotoCorp: 553,727 units (+8%)

• HMSI: 534,861 units (flat growth)

GST Uncertainty Looms

The stellar performance comes as the GST Council prepares to discuss two-wheeler taxation in its September 3–4 meeting.

• Current rate: 28% GST on all two-wheelers; +3% cess on >350cc bikes.

• Proposal: 18% GST on <350cc bikes, 40% slab on >350cc bikes.

Royal Enfield has urged the government to maintain a uniform GST across all capacities to safeguard India’s growing mid-capacity motorcycle segment. Executive Chairman Siddhartha Lal warned that higher taxes could shrink domestic demand and stall global competitiveness.

Hero MotoCorp’s Pawan Munjal meanwhile stressed that lower GST would boost affordability, especially for rural and semi-urban buyers, where two-wheelers remain the backbone of personal mobility.

Outlook

With festive season tailwinds and policy changes on the horizon, India’s two-wheeler market is at a crossroads — balancing domestic affordability, global competitiveness, and sustainable growth.

The plant, with an investment of ₹2,345 crore, is designed as a sustainability-first facility, aiming to set new standards in green steel manufacturing. It will operate on a zero liquid, solid, and gaseous discharge model, with over 95% of its energy needs met through renewable sources.

Expansion Plans

The new facility will boost MSSSL’s production to 7 lakh tonnes per annum, with the first phase expected to begin operations by early 2028. The integrated plant will include:

• Iron making

• Steel making

• Blooming mill facilities

Future expansions will integrate hydrogen-ready infrastructure and carbon capture technologies to support MSSSL’s commitment to achieving net-zero steel manufacturing by 2050.

Focus on Sustainability & Innovation

The project emphasises flexibility, automation, and digital integration to deliver consistent quality while optimising energy use.

“The new facility will allow us to serve growing demand with greater efficiency, quality, and environmental responsibility. It is a step forward in realising our shared vision of creating a world-class, sustainable special steel enterprise,” said Vipul Mashruwala, President, MSSSL.

This landmark investment not only strengthens Karnataka’s industrial base but also reinforces India’s push toward green and sustainable manufacturing.

Big-ticket Investments

• Knorr-Bremse, the Munich-headquartered braking systems giant, will invest ₹2,000 crore to set up a railway doors and braking systems facility in Tamil Nadu. The project is expected to create 3,500 jobs, enhancing the state’s supply-chain ecosystem in the rail components sector, a crucial area as India modernises passenger and freight corridors.

• In the renewable sector, Hamburg-based Nordex Group committed ₹1,000 crore to expand its operations in Tamil Nadu, generating 2,500 jobs. This move consolidates the state’s status as India’s leading wind-turbine manufacturing hub, aligning with its green industrialisation goals.

• Ebm-papst, a global leader in energy-efficient motors, announced a ₹201 crore expansion plan over the next five years. The investment will grow its Global Capability Centre and manufacturing footprint, creating 250 jobs in HVAC, automotive, and industrial applications.

Push for Future Mobility

During discussions with executives from BMW Group, Chief Minister Stalin highlighted Tamil Nadu’s electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem as an ideal platform for the company’s future investments. BMW already assembles cars in the state for the Indian market and reiterated its long-term commitment to India through Tamil Nadu.

A Stronger Global Footprint

These investment pledges underscore Tamil Nadu’s rising importance on the global stage as a preferred destination for high-tech manufacturing, renewable energy, and mobility innovations. With thousands of jobs being created across key sectors, the state is cementing its reputation as a growth engine for India’s industrial future.

What the Study Found

The team, led by Professor Himanshu Sinha and PhD scholar Srijith Sasikumar from IIT-Madras, in collaboration with Danish scientists, discovered that some genes interact in unexpected ways, triggering significant changes in how cells behave.

The research, published in Nature Communications, highlighted not only what changes occur inside cells but also when and how they unfold, providing a clearer picture of disease progression.

Hidden Pathways Unlocked

One key finding was that when two specific gene variants — MKT1(89G) and TAO3(4477C) — occurred together, they switched on a hidden arginine biosynthesis pathway. This shift boosted the cell’s ability to reproduce but also suppressed other functions, creating new cellular dependencies.

This kind of mechanism mirrors how complex diseases often create vulnerabilities — weak spots that could potentially be targeted with new treatments.

Why This Matters

The study paves the way for advancements in personalised medicine, where therapies can be tailored to a person’s unique genetic profile. By understanding these hidden pathways and interactions, doctors may eventually design treatments that are more precise, effective, and targeted.

This breakthrough from IIT-Madras underscores how genetic research is reshaping the future of healthcare, with the potential to tackle some of the world’s most challenging diseases.

Why September is ‘Dravidian Month’

The tradition of marking September as Dravidian Month began a few years ago, as the month coincides with several key milestones — including the birthdays of Periyar E V Ramasamy and C N Annadurai, the founding of the DMK, and the inauguration of Anna Arivalayam, the party headquarters.

Digital-First Celebrations

According to IT Wing advisor Govi Lenin, the initiative is driven by IT wing secretary and minister T R B Rajaa, who is focused on ensuring high-quality, memorable content that resonates with the youth.

Each day of the month-long programme follows a structured schedule:

• 7 AM: AI-generated video on a leader or unsung functionary of the Dravidian movement

• 9 AM: Graphic photo card featuring a Dravidian personality

• 2 PM: Promo video of the day’s speaker

• 8 PM: Live address from leaders, ministers, or experts

• 12 Noon (next day): Highlights of the previous day’s session

Line-Up of Leaders

The campaign plans to introduce 60 leaders and party functionaries over the month. On Day 1, Iyothee Thass was featured as the leader, while Mannai Narayanasamy was highlighted as the functionary.

As in previous years, key speakers include ministers, senior leaders, Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin, and Chief Minister M K Stalin.

Keeping the Ideology Alive

With its AI-driven content and structured outreach, the DMK IT Wing hopes to strengthen awareness of the Dravidian legacy among today’s digital-native generation, while also reinforcing the party’s ideological roots.

Conditional Clearance Amid Staffing and Infrastructure Gaps

The conditional approval follows show cause notices issued in May to 35 out of 36 government medical colleges across the state—including prominent institutions like Stanley Medical College and Omandurar Medical College. The notices cited shortages of faculty, infrastructure deficiencies, and issues related to the Aadhaar-enabled biometric attendance system.

According to official sources, all 35 colleges have now received approval with the condition that they rectify the cited deficiencies within four months.

“All 36 government medical colleges in Tamil Nadu now have NMC approval, but 35 of them must resolve issues such as staffing shortages and attendance system malfunctions,” an official said.

First-Ever Widespread Show Cause Action

This is the first time in the state’s history that almost every government medical college received a show cause notice from the NMC. The colleges were initially given seven days to submit written explanations to avoid denial of approval for the academic year 2025–26.

The NMC began reviewing the submissions in June and started granting approvals on a case-by-case basis. As of Tuesday, all 36 colleges have secured their annual clearance, albeit conditionally for most.

MBBS/BDS Admission Process Set to Begin

The approval from NMC is crucial for initiating the counselling process for MBBS and BDS admissions in Tamil Nadu. The Selection Committee under the Directorate of Medical Education and Research had been waiting for the final nod from NMC before announcing the counselling schedule.

Key Admission Stats:

• Total MBBS seats (Govt colleges): 5,050

• Number of Govt medical colleges: 36

• Total applications received for 2025–26: 72,943

• Last date for application: June 29, 2025

Officials confirmed that the counselling schedule will be announced shortly now that approvals are complete.

Aadhaar-Based Attendance System Being Fixed

Among the issues flagged by the NMC was the non-functioning of the Aadhaar-enabled biometric attendance system, a critical mechanism to ensure accountability and transparency in staffing. Officials stated that efforts are underway to rectify the issue across all affected institutions.

What Happens Next?

The colleges have a four-month deadline to fix all identified deficiencies. Failure to do so could affect their recognition status for the following academic years. Meanwhile, the conditional approval ensures that students applying for MBBS and BDS seats this year won’t face delays or disruption.

Conclusion

The NMC’s move reflects a growing emphasis on accountability and quality control in medical education. While Tamil Nadu continues to be a leading state in healthcare infrastructure, this episode underscores the need for continuous oversight to maintain high standards in medical training.

Background of the Case

Actor Srikanth was arrested on June 23, and Krishna on June 26, after their names surfaced during the investigation into a drug trafficking case led by the Nungambakkam Police. The arrests were reportedly based on the confession of the prime accused, Pradeep Kumar, who is already in custody.

Initially, both actors’ bail applications were rejected by the Special Court for NDPS cases, leading them to approach the Madras High Court for relief.

High Court Grants Conditional Bail

Justice M. Nirmal Kumar, hearing the bail petitions, granted conditional bail to both Srikanth and Krishna. As part of the bail conditions, the actors are required to:

• Appear regularly at the Nungambakkam police station

• Cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation

• Comply with any further conditions imposed by the court

The court has instructed that this arrangement will remain until further orders.

No Seizure or Drug Use Proven, Say Actors

In their defense, the actors argued that their arrests were solely based on the statement of the main accused, and that there was no independent evidence linking them to drug use or possession:

• Srikanth submitted that no contraband was recovered from him at the time of arrest.

• Krishna stated that medical tests did not confirm any drug consumption.

Their counsel emphasized that the arrests were speculative and unsupported by direct evidence.

What This Means

The case has attracted significant media attention due to the involvement of celebrities. The granting of conditional bail does not signal an end to the investigation; instead, it allows the actors to remain out of custody while they comply with the legal process.

Legal experts note that the NDPS Act carries stringent provisions, and any allegations under it must be backed by solid forensic and procedural evidence.

Conclusion

As the Chennai drug case unfolds, the conditional bail granted to actors Srikanth and Krishna highlights the need for careful legal scrutiny in high-profile arrests. While the court has offered temporary relief, the investigation continues, and the final outcome will depend on the evidence presented in court.

A Milestone for Tamil Nadu’s Economic Competitiveness

The latest EIU report, part of the globally respected Economist Group, assesses states based on factors such as policy effectiveness, infrastructure, investment climate, regulatory environment, and inclusive development. Tamil Nadu’s rise to the top demonstrates its ability to balance rapid industrial growth with social welfare.

Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu, responding to the report, highlighted the state’s unparalleled growth in key economic areas:

“This recognition reflects Tamil Nadu’s unmatched progress — from record FDI inflows to thriving industries across sectors. It’s a validation of the state's transformation into a national leader in economic competitiveness.”

Industries Minister Credits the Dravidian Model

Industries Minister TRB Rajaa attributed the achievement to the Dravidian model of governance, which blends social inclusivity with economic ambition. He called the EIU recognition a validation of Tamil Nadu’s unique policy direction:

“This is the Dravidian model in action — where a business-friendly atmosphere, visionary leadership, effective policy, and relentless execution come together. We don’t just focus on profits, but on people.”

The Dravidian model, which has guided Tamil Nadu’s development for decades, prioritizes inclusive growth, education, industrial innovation, and welfare-driven governance — a framework now being recognized on the global stage.

Key Drivers of Tamil Nadu’s Business Environment Success

Some of the key contributors to the state’s rise in the EIU rankings include:

• Record-breaking FDI inflows across electronics, automotive, and renewable energy

• Robust industrial base, from MSMEs to global manufacturing giants

• Progressive labour and investment policies attracting long-term investors

• Digital infrastructure and e-governance reforms

• Strong transport, logistics, and power infrastructure

Tamil Nadu has consistently ranked among India’s top states in Ease of Doing Business (EoDB), and the EIU’s latest ranking only cements its reputation.

What This Means for Investors and Entrepreneurs

The top EIU ranking positions Tamil Nadu as an ideal destination for domestic and international investment. With a stable political climate, skilled workforce, and forward-thinking leadership, the state offers an ecosystem that encourages entrepreneurship, fosters innovation, and promotes sustainable growth.

Conclusion

Tamil Nadu’s recognition by the Economist Intelligence Unit is more than a ranking — it’s a statement of intent and capability. It affirms the state’s commitment to building a business-friendly and socially inclusive economy, setting a powerful example for the rest of India.

As global investors look for reliable and dynamic markets, Tamil Nadu is clearly emerging as the front-runner in shaping India’s economic future.

Strike Backed by Major Trade Unions

The strike, called by 10 national trade unions, is being held to protest against what they call the "anti-people" and "anti-labour" policies of the Union government. Among the unions supporting the strike are:

• Labour Progressive Front (LPF) – affiliated with the ruling DMK

• Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC) – affiliated with the Congress

• Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) – affiliated with the CPI(M)

• All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) – affiliated with the CPI

The Joint Action Council of Tamil Nadu Teachers Organisations and Government Employees Organisations (JACTTO-GEO) has also extended its support to the strike.

Government's Strict Warning to Employees

Despite political affiliations of some trade unions with the ruling party, the Tamil Nadu government has taken a tough stance against the strike. In a circular issued by Chief Secretary N. Muruganandam, employees have been warned that any absence on July 9 will invite disciplinary action.

Key directives include:

• No Casual Leave or Other Leave (except on medical grounds) will be permitted on the day

• Attendance reports must be submitted by 10:15 a.m. to the government

• Part-time, daily wage, and consolidated pay employees may be discharged from service if absent

• Violation of Conduct Rules 20, 22, and 22-A will lead to action under the Tamil Nadu Government Servants Conduct Rules, 1973

“Participation in strike or any agitation by employees amounts to a serious violation of service conduct rules,” the circular noted.

Political and Legal Ramifications

This move has created a politically sensitive situation, as the LPF—a pro-DMK union—is among the strike's key organizers. However, the government has reiterated that administrative discipline must prevail, regardless of political affiliations.

Legal experts suggest that while employees have a right to protest, government servants are bound by specific codes of conduct, and violations can lead to serious consequences, including loss of pay and termination.

What This Means for Employees and Services

With this strict directive in place, many government employees may be forced to skip the protest. Essential services such as health, transport, and administration are expected to function normally, though mild disruptions cannot be ruled out if a large number of employees defy the order.

Meanwhile, unions have stated that they are committed to the strike and may challenge any disciplinary actions legally.

Conclusion

As tensions rise between employees and the administration, the July 9 strike is expected to be a litmus test for both government resolve and trade union strength. With the Tamil Nadu government holding firm on its "No Work, No Pay" stance, all eyes will be on how public servants respond—and how the day unfolds across the state.

Shocking Scene at Vaiyamalai Palayam School

The incident occurred at a panchayat union primary school in Vaiyamalai Palayam, located in the Trichy district. The teacher in question, Arokiyaraj (45) of Avarampatti, was the only teacher assigned to the school, which serves approximately 20 students and has been operating without a headmaster for months.

Eyewitnesses reported that Arokiyaraj entered the classroom around 3:00 p.m., visibly intoxicated. He began knocking over chairs before collapsing unconscious on the classroom floor. Alarmed students alerted nearby residents, and within minutes, concerned parents rushed to the school to find the teacher lying unconscious.

Official Inquiry and Medical Confirmation

Following the incident, Vaiyampatti Block Educational Officer (BEO) Latha, along with Manapparai DSP Kathiravan and local police, conducted preliminary inquiries at the school. Arokiyaraj was immediately taken to the Manapparai Government Hospital, where doctors confirmed that he was under the influence of alcohol.

Based on the BEO’s report, District Elementary Education Officer (DEEO) Ravichandran issued an immediate suspension order for Arokiyaraj.

"Teachers are expected to uphold discipline and be a role model to students. Such behaviour not only violates professional conduct but also endangers the safety and learning environment of children. We have taken swift action to ensure accountability," said DEEO Ravichandran.

Urgent Steps Taken to Stabilize the School

This school had been functioning with only one teacher and no headmaster, a situation now exacerbated by the suspension. Responding quickly, education authorities have deputed two new teachers to manage the classes and promised to fill the vacant headmaster post in the upcoming counselling session for teacher transfers.

Broader Concerns About Rural Education Staffing

The incident has raised larger questions about the lack of oversight and understaffing in rural schools. With no headmaster and just one teacher handling all students, parents argue that the system left their children vulnerable.

Education activists have demanded a review of single-teacher schools and called for mental health and conduct assessments for teachers in isolated posts.

Conclusion

This unfortunate episode highlights the urgent need for systemic reforms in rural education, especially in teacher deployment, monitoring, and student safety. While swift action was taken against the erring teacher, stakeholders must work together to ensure that schools remain safe, supportive, and disciplined spaces for children.

The directive was issued during a high-level strategy meeting held at the DMK Tiruppur North District office, led by District In-Charge Mayor Dinesh Kumar and City In-Charge Thangaraj. The session brought together key functionaries, booth committee leaders, and regional administrators to align campaign strategies and set timelines for execution.

Senthil Balaji’s Key Directives to Party Cadres

In his address, Senthil Balaji laid out a structured plan to strengthen the DMK’s grassroots presence in both constituencies. The main action points included:

• Complete Booth-Level Survey by December:
  A constituency-wide survey must be conducted to assess voter sentiments, identify weak polling booths, and gather data to refine outreach strategies.

• Focus on Weak Areas:
  Special attention must be given to polling booths where DMK’s influence has been historically low. Balaji urged cadres to focus resources here to increase voter engagement and improve vote share.

• Promote Government Welfare Schemes:
  Booth agents and local representatives were instructed to actively communicate the state government’s welfare initiatives. Explaining how these schemes benefit local communities is crucial to winning voter trust.

• Counter Opposition Influence:
  Balaji discussed targeted strategies to counter the strongholds of AIADMK and BJP, advising booth-level interventions to reduce the opposition's voter base in select areas.

• Finish Preparations Before February 2026:
  With the election announcement expected in February, all critical activities — including booth planning, voter data collection, and field mobilization — must be finalized by December 2025.

Laying the Groundwork for a Focused Campaign

The meeting signals the launch of an intensive campaign phase in Western Tamil Nadu. Senthil Balaji’s focus on early preparation underscores the DMK’s commitment to securing a stronghold in Tiruppur North and Avinashi, both viewed as key constituencies in the 2026 elections.

By prioritizing fieldwork, targeted communication, and early identification of weaknesses, the DMK aims to create a solid organizational framework to outperform its rivals.

Conclusion

With a December deadline firmly in place, the DMK’s election machinery in Tiruppur and Avinashi is now operating on a defined timeline. Senthil Balaji’s leadership and strategic clarity are driving early action, giving the party a critical advantage as it prepares for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly polls. From data-driven surveys to booth-level mobilization, the groundwork laid in 2025 could prove pivotal to the DMK’s performance in the coming election.

What Happened?

The incident occurred at Tasmac outlet No. 1990 located on Sharmian Shakib Street, near the Kalaignar Karunanidhi Central Bus Stand in Tiruppur. On Wednesday morning, local traders noticed that the lock of the outlet had been broken and its doors left wide open. They immediately informed the Tiruppur South Police.

Soon after, police and Tasmac officials arrived at the scene. Upon inspection, it was found that while liquor bottles worth ₹9,000 had been stolen, the ₹3.76 lakh in cash from the previous day’s sales, which was stored securely in the outlet’s cash box, had not been touched.

Surveillance Footage Provides Clues

A police officer stated, “We reviewed the surveillance camera footage, which revealed that the theft took place between 1:30 AM and 2:00 AM on Wednesday. The thief tied up the liquor bottles in a bundle and carried them away. It’s possible he did not even notice the cash in the box.”

Investigation Underway

Police have registered a case and are currently analyzing CCTV footage to identify and apprehend the suspect. The unusual nature of the crime — ignoring a huge stash of cash while stealing only liquor — has left both the police and the public puzzled.

Final Thoughts

While burglaries are unfortunately not uncommon, this case has caught attention for its odd choice of loot. Whether it was a crime of opportunity, a deliberate act, or simply lack of awareness, the Tiruppur liquor thief left behind more questions than answers — and a lot of cash.

Water Bells to Ring in Better Health

The Directorate of Private Schools (DPS) in Chennai has issued a circular to all District Educational Officers (DEOs), mandating immediate implementation of the water bell system in private schools. The circular emphasizes:

• Students must bring water bottles from home

• Teachers should explain the importance of hydration during morning assemblies

• Dedicated water bells (distinct from regular school bells) should ring at fixed times, such as 11 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM

• Students are allowed 2–3 minutes to drink water in class, without disrupting lessons

The aim is to make hydration a habit and prevent dehydration-related health issues in children.

Welcomed by Parents and Educators

The move has received strong support from parents and educationists alike.
K. Saravanababu, a parent from Coimbatore, praised the initiative, sharing how his Class 3 daughter often returned home tired and dehydrated. He believes the water bell will encourage children to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Educationist K. Leninbharathi, who had previously petitioned the government to implement this system in all schools, said regular water intake significantly improves student focus, concentration, and physical health. He urged DEOs to closely monitor implementation in private institutions.

Already in Practice in Some Schools

According to R. Nandakumar, General Secretary of the Tamil Nadu Nursery, Matriculation and CBSE Schools Association, many private schools had already introduced the water bell system voluntarily. He emphasized its practical benefits and expressed confidence that full-scale implementation would greatly enhance student wellbeing across the board.

Final Thoughts

The introduction of the Water Bell System in private schools is a simple yet impactful measure that promotes healthy habits among children. As Tamil Nadu takes proactive steps to prioritize student health, this initiative is a great example of how small policy changes can lead to big improvements in school environments.