#Tamilnadu

Wanderlust

Tamil Nadu Makes Waves in Tourism With Its First Floating Restaurant!

Tamil Nadu has made waves—literally—with the launch of its first-ever floating restaurant, Seanz Cruise! This dazzling new attraction takes luxury dining to the next level, offering guests a front-row seat to the serene beauty of the backwaters. With a whopping Rs 5 crore investment, this innovative project—a collaboration between the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) and Cochin-based Grandeur Marine International—delivers a one-of-a-kind experience that seamlessly blends world-class cuisine, vibrant entertainment, and breathtaking scenic views.The Seanz Cruise is a double-decker floating marvel, measuring 125 feet in length and 25 feet in width. Its state-of-the-art design includes air-conditioned interiors, ensuring guests’ comfort throughout the journey. With a dining capacity for 100 people, the restaurant’s lower deck is perfect for formal dining and events, featuring a stage, DJ zone, changing rooms, and a high-quality sound system. The upper deck, on the other hand, offers an open-air banquet area with panoramic views, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a mesmerizing sunset while savoring a meal.The restaurant specializes in Indian cuisine with a buffet system, but the menu is adaptable to cater to international guests’ tastes. Diners can indulge in a variety of flavors while soaking in the serene beauty of the backwaters.Source: Google Images The cruise operates daily from 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Additionally, guests can enjoy a scenic 3 km boat ride from the boathouse toward Old Mahabalipuram Road.Tailored for Special OccasionsAdvance reservations make Seanz Cruise an exclusive venue for weddings, corporate events, family gatherings, and product launches. To elevate the experience, the cruise offers entertainment options such as DJ performances, dance shows, and magic acts. According to a TTDC official, “This cruise restaurant is not just about food; it’s an experience blending scenic beauty, modern amenities, and Tamil Nadu’s renowned hospitality. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or corporate event, this one-of-a-kind venue promises unforgettable memories.”Safety and Comfort Above AllSafety is a top priority on Seanz Cruise. The vessel is equipped with lifeboats and firefighting equipment to ensure a secure experience for all guests. The meticulous planning behind this project reflects Tamil Nadu’s commitment to promoting innovative tourism initiatives while maintaining the highest safety standards.Seanz Cruise is more than just a restaurant; it’s a statement of Tamil Nadu’s evolving tourism landscape. With its unique blend of culinary delights, modern amenities, and beauty of the backwaters, this floating restaurant is poised to become a must-visit destination.

24 Jan 2025

Wanderlust

A Hidden Oasis of Wonder Lies Tucked Away in the Mystical Realm of Therikaadu

Prepare for an adventure that will awaken your senses and ignite your wanderlust. Theri Kaadu invites you to indulge in its mysterious allure, to witness the juxtaposition of arid beauty against the coastal landscape. Nestled in the Thoothukudi district of Tamil Nadu, Theri Kaadu also known as the Red Sand Desert, boasts a breathtaking coastal landscape. In Tamil, the red dunes are referred to as "Theri," and their distinctive crimson hue adds to the allure of this unique destination. Formed over millions of years through marine deposits, these red dunes cover an expansive area of 1200 acres. Theri Kaadu experiences a warm coastal climate, enriched by a generous annual rainfall that supports the growth of palmyra palms and thorny scrub vegetation. The best time to visit this awe-inspiring desert is between May and September. To beat the scorching heat, it is advisable to explore Theri Kaadu before 9 am or after 5 pm. The theris, or red dunes, exhibit low water and nutrient retention capacities, making them susceptible to aerodynamic lift. These geological formations were shaped over time by the migration and accumulation of sand grains, driven by high-velocity winds from the Western Ghats. The desert also thrives with flora and fauna like the fan throated lizard, green bee-eaters, blue-faced Malkoha, grey francolins among others. Today, the desert also stands as a proof of the powerful forces of nature and the impact of deforestation on wind erosion. Theri Kaadu, with its vibrant red dunes and intriguing geological formations, presents an enchanting landscape that captivates the imagination. Step into this mystical realm where nature's artistry is on full display, ready to ignite your sense of adventure like never before.

9 Jun 2023

Wanderlust

Discovering the Secrets of the Enchanted Hills: A Tale of Adventure

Lush green valleys, cascading waterfalls, and sprawling tea plantations as far as the eye can see. Coonoor, the second largest hill station in the Nilgiri Hills of the Western Ghats, is a paradise on earth. It is the perfect place to experience the sheer beauty of nature in all its glory. As I set out to explore the hills of Coonoor, I was mesmerized by the serene atmosphere and the stunning views of the Nilgiri Hills and Catherine Falls. The trekking expeditions into the Nilgiris were calling out to me, and I couldn't wait to explore Lamb's Rock, one of the most popular trekking locations just 9 km from Coonoor. Perched at an altitude of 1856 m, Coonoor is the second largest hill station in Tamil Nadu in the Nilgiri Hill range. Sim's Park, with its beautiful bird species like bulbuls, babblers, and robins, was a sight to behold. The sound of their chirping was music to my ears in the otherwise silent Coonoor Hills. I made sure to visit Lamb's Rock, Lady Caning's Seat and Dolphin's Nose, the other attractions of Coonoor Hills. The annual Coffee Festival and Fruit & Vegetables events added to the excitement, and I was glad to be a part of them. The Toy Train ride through Coonoor Hills was a mesmerizing experience, providing a kaleidoscopic view of the region to the tourists. As I sipped on the famous Nilgiri tea, I marveled at the history of Coonoor. The place was set up as a summer retreat and sanatorium to treat sick European patients during the early 19th century by John Sullivan, who belonged to the East India Company. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway was also set up to make travel to the hill station easier. I realized that Coonoor is not just a hill station but a place where nature thrives, and history blends seamlessly with modernity. As I bid farewell to this enchanting place, I knew I would be back to experience its beauty and serenity once again.

1 Apr 2023

Wanderlust

Discover the Tranquil Paradise Tucked Away in the Lush Green Valleys and Mountains

Valparai, a small town nestled amidst the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by tourists. Known for its scenic beauty, lush green tea estates, and tranquil atmosphere, Valparai is the perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful getaway. Located at an altitude of 3,500 feet above sea level, Valparai is surrounded by mountains, valleys, and streams, offering breathtaking views and a refreshing climate throughout the year. The town is home to several tea estates, which are a major source of livelihood for the locals. Visitors can take a tour of these estates, learn about the process of tea-making, and sample some of the finest teas. Apart from tea estates, Valparai is also home to several waterfalls, including the Athirapally Falls and the Sholayar Dam. These natural wonders are a treat for the eyes and a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts. Visitors can also indulge in activities like trekking, bird watching, and wildlife safari, as Valparai is home to several wildlife sanctuaries, including the Anaimalai Tiger Reserve. Valparai's charm lies in its simplicity and unspoiled natural beauty. The town is devoid of commercialization and offers a serene environment, making it the perfect place to unwind and rejuvenate. Whether you're traveling solo, with family or friends, Valparai is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

28 Feb 2023

Wanderlust

Good News

Walking on Air: India’s First Glass Bridge Opens in Tamil Nadu

In a historic leap for Tamil Nadu's tourism sector, Chief Minister M. K. Stalin inaugurated India’s first glass bridge on Monday evening. It connects the iconic Vivekananda Rock Memorial with the towering 133-foot Thiruvalluvar statue off Kanyakumari's coast. This cutting-edge structure blends natural beauty with modern engineering and promises an unforgettable experience for visitors.The inauguration coincided with the silver jubilee of the Thiruvalluvar statue, unveiled 25 years ago by the late Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi. The bridge symbolizes a fusion of the past and the future and is poised to transform Kanyakumari into a global tourist hotspot.A Spectacular Engineering FeatStretching 77 meters in length and 10 meters in width, the glass bridge is a marvel of modern engineering. Its bowstring arch enhances its aesthetic appeal and ensures durability against the corrosive coastal climate. Constructed at a cost of ₹37 crore, with high-strength glass, the bridge offers a unique thrill—walking above the sea while enjoying panoramic views of the monuments and the endless ocean. The transparency of the glass floor adds an adventurous edge. It is a must-visit for those seeking both natural and architectural wonders.A Journey Above the WavesPreviously, tourists relied on ferry services to travel between the Vivekananda Memorial and the Thiruvalluvar statue. The new glass bridge not only eliminates the need for ferries but offers a leisurely and scenic alternative. Walking across the bridge, visitors can marvel at the striking landmarks and the serene beauty of the surrounding seascape.Chief Minister Stalin shared a video of the bridge on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, showcasing its stunning design and breathtaking views. The clip has since captured the attention of thousands towards this architectural wonder.The inauguration of the bridge was a grand event, with Chief Minister Stalin, Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, MP Kanimozhi, and other dignitaries taking a ceremonial walk across the structure. The festivities continued with a laser light show at the Thiruvalluvar statue, illuminating the night sky and adding to the celebration.The bridge serves as a tribute to the region’s cultural legacy, with the Thiruvalluvar statue symbolizing Tamil wisdom and literature and the Vivekananda Rock Memorial reflecting the timeless teachings of Swami Vivekananda. Together, these landmarks embody the rich heritage of Tamil Nadu, now further highlighted by this modern marvel.Beyond its tourism potential, the project is set to benefit the local economy. Increased footfall is likely to boost local businesses, from hotels and restaurants to souvenir shops.Source: Google ImagesKey Features of the Glass BridgeBreathtaking Views: Panoramic vistas of the Vivekananda Memorial, Thiruvalluvar statue, and the expansive sea.Architectural Elegance: A bowstring arch design combining beauty with resilience.Safety and Longevity: High-strength glass and advanced materials to withstand coastal conditions.Cultural Significance: A modern connection between two iconic symbols of Tamil heritage.The inauguration of India’s first glass bridge is a big milestone in tourism. As visitors stroll above the waves, taking in the unparalleled views, they experience the seamless blend of the old and the new, the timeless and the modern.This ₹37-crore marvel not only links two iconic landmarks but also brings people closer to Tamil Nadu's rich heritage. It puts Kanyakumari on the map as a must-visit spot for culture and architecture, inviting the world to experience the future of Indian tourism.

31 Dec 2024

Good News

Celebrating Student Talents: Innovative Magazine Sets a New Standard in Tamil Nadu Education!

The School Education Department of Tamil Nadu (SEDTN) is revolutionizing the learning experience for students in the state with its innovative magazine, 'Thenchittu.' Aimed at nurturing creativity and fostering reading habits, 'Thenchittu' is making a significant impact on young voices across Tamil Nadu. Launched by Chief Minister MK Stalin in October 2022, 'Thenchittu' is part of SEDTN's initiative to provide a platform for students to showcase their talents. The magazine is specifically designed for students in classes 6 to 9, encouraging them to explore their thoughts beyond academics. With each issue containing 24 pages, 'Thenchittu' has become a valuable resource for students to learn and grow. What initially started as a collection of short stories has evolved into a space where students actively contribute their own creative works since March 2023. The magazine has become a platform for students to exhibit their artwork, showcase their talents, and engage with interesting stories that broaden their understanding of various subjects. SEDTN ensures that each section of schools within the state receives a printed copy of 'Thenchittu' through the Education Management Information Systems (EMIS). Students eagerly participate by submitting their creations to the editorial team, with the support of their teachers. Rejecting none of the submissions, the magazine boosts students' morale by acknowledging their contributions. The success of 'Thenchittu' has also captured the attention of private institutions, leading to an extension of the subscription system. Starting from October 2023, private schools can now subscribe to the magazine for Rs 200 per year, further expanding its reach and impact. SEDTN's commitment to empowering young voices through 'Thenchittu' demonstrates the transformative power of creativity and reading in education. By providing students with a platform to express themselves, the magazine is nurturing a generation of individuals who are eager to learn and contribute to society.

29 Dec 2023

Good News

This Tamil Nadu College Students Adopt Ink Pens As the College Strives to Be Plastic-Free

The use and throw ballpoint pens are very convenient and popular among students. However, improper disposal of waste leads to all the plastic including the plastic ballpoint pens accumulating in landfills. A college in Tamil Nadu has taken matters into its own hands to tackle the plastic problem. One unique step is the introduction of fountain pens which has reduced the college’s plastic waste and additionally has helped improve the handwriting of students. The ‘Ink Pen’ Rule The Government Arts College in Tamil Nadu imposed the Ink Pen rule on October 30. The authorities of the college were miffed at the sight of used ballpoint pens strewn in the college premises. After a brainstorming session, they came up with the decision to replace ballpoint pens with fountain pens with effect from October 30. Students are adhering to this rule and teachers admit that they have seen a welcome change in the handwriting of students by using fountain pens. Other Measures The College is very committed to make its premises a plastic-free zone. Plastic cutlery in the college canteen has been replaced by steel ones. Flex banners have been replaced with ones made from cloth. Students and staff are encouraged to use cloth bags. Even plastic identity cards have been replaced by hard and thick paper. This college certainly sets an example on how to eliminate plastic use and if the steps adopted by it are emulated by other colleges throughout India, then that is definitely going to make a big difference.

10 Nov 2019

Good News

This Is the Best Gift an Employer Can Ever Give to His Employees!

When a woman mill worker expressed her helplessness to continue her studies due to financial constraints, it struck a chord with Director of KPR Mills, P Nataraj and his brother K P Ramasamy who then decided to start classes for the employees. The initiative, which began 14 years ago with 15-20 students has now snowballed to around 24,000 women who have completed their X, class XII and graduation as well. Many have taken up job oriented courses in teacher training and yoga. Ideal CSR Initiative KPR Mills is one of the largest apparel manufacturing firms in the country. You will be surprised to know that it has fifty-eight full-time teachers on its roll. The teachers are employed to educate its employees most of them who have now become graduates and postgraduates. Being serious about this initiative, it has tied up with Tamil Nadu Open University and Alagappa University. Uplifting Employees KPR Mills has 22,000 employees of which around 3,500 are pursuing various courses from Class X to Computer Diploma and even Post Graduate degrees. The employees are not expected to stay with it forever and they are encouraged to take up better opportunities that come their way as it will uplift them and their families. The women employees are grateful to the company without whose help they would have remained mill workers for life.

6 Nov 2019

Good News

Students Imbibe Lessons in Honesty With This Out of the Box Initiative

A government school in Tamil Nadu has come up with a novel way of imparting lessons in honesty to students. The initiative has not only transformed children but has also thought them the value of money. Some lessons are best taught to children in a practical way. The Stationary Shop The stationary shop opened at Union Middle School in Pudukkottai sets forth lessons in honesty. A shop has been opened in the school that contains stationary books, pens, pencils etc. which are labeled with price tags, but there is no vendor. Students can take whatever items they want and deposit the appropriate amount of money in a box kept for that purpose. There will be no one at the shop to monitor their transactions. Life Lessons Learnt This initiative is the brainchild of Mekala, a Mathematics teacher who said that the idea is to teach children life-oriented lessons. When they do not have the exact amount for a product, then they learn to get balance amount for it. Thus they also apply what they learn in class at the store. If there is demand for a particular book or any other item, teachers ensure that they keep a stock of it. Every month, there is a sale of Rs 1,000-Rs 1,200 at the store. Parents are happy about the honesty store as it inculcates in their children valuable lessons of truth and honesty. One parent even said that such lessons will help shape their career drastically.

5 Nov 2019

Good News

Know Why This Village in Tamil Nadu Do Not Burst Crackers During Diwali

There is a lesson to learn from the Kollukudipatti village in Tamil Nadu. The village is very sensitive towards nature that its inhabitants no longer burst crackers during festivals so as not to trouble the migratory birds that visit this place. It has become an unwritten rule in the hamlet that people will not burst crackers during Diwali. Vettankudi Bird Sanctuary The Vettankudi bird sanctuary is situated in Kollukudipatti village and it draws hundreds of winter migratory birds. Many indigenous endangered species of birds have also been nesting at this place for decades. The sanctuary spans an area of 38.4 acres and has many vast water bodies that attract more than half a dozen bird species. The birds have been visiting the sanctuary for nesting and breeding since the early 1960s. Variety of Birds The birds that migrate from as far as Europe and North Asia include grey herons, darters, spoonbills, white ibis, black ibis, openbill stork and night herons. Some endangered species like Little Cormorant, little Egret and Flamingos visit the sanctuary between October and March. Some villagers believe that if a large number of birds come to the village, they will be blessed with good rain and a great harvest. So the love for birds in the Vettankudi bird sanctuary has desisted the villagers from bursting crackers during Diwali.

1 Nov 2019

Good News

Famous Prasad of Palani Temple in Tami Nadu Gets GI Tag

The Dhandayuthapani Swamy temple in Palani, Tamil Nadu is renowned for its prasad which is also called Palani panchamirtham. Recently, thanks to the efforts of the temple authorities, the Prasad has been bestowed with the GI tag. Panchamirtham Prasadam The prasad is made of five natural ingredients - banana, cow ghee, cardamom, jaggery and honey – which is why the ‘pancha’, meaning five, comes in the name. ‘Amirtham’ translates to delicacy in Tamil, hence the name Panchamirtham. The ingredients are combined in the prescribed proportions to make the much-loved prasad. The prasadam gets an extra flavour by the dates and sugar candies added to it. The preparation of the prasad is automated with due importance given to quality and hygiene. It is certified by the FSSAI. The GI tag limitation extends to the Palani town as well. Geographical Indication (GI) Tag A geographical indication (GI) is a name or sign given to certain products which have its origin in a specific geographical location (e.g. a town, region, or country). Products with GI tag possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin. Some examples of products with GI tag include Kancheepuram silk, Kohapuri footwear, Madhubani Paintings, Darjeeling Tea and Tirupati Laddu. The advantage of the GI tag is that it prevents the misuse of the product. The producer can legally charge anyone not belonging to the GI region trying to use their GI tag and save his reputation from being damaged.

20 Aug 2019

Good News

Star Citizens

Rediscovering Rich Heritage: DHAN Foundation's Transformative Walks

The DHAN Foundation, through its decade-long saga of organizing heritage walks, has been instrumental in preserving and reviving cultural heritage across Madurai and other remote locations in Tamil Nadu. These transformative walks have brought new meaning to mundane things and allowed participants to discover the rich archaeological treasures scattered across the region. Under the guidance of the DHAN Foundation, college student R Eswaran and numerous others have embarked on journeys through heritage villages such as Keezhamattiyam, Thenkarai, Thiruvedagam, Thenur, Kodimangalam, Thuvariman, and Vikramangalam. Retired archaeologist V Vedachalam has lent his voice to these ancient tales, painting a vivid picture of Madurai's bustling past as a trade center that welcomed traders from Varanasi to Kanniyakumari. The success of these heritage walks is attributed to the collaborative efforts of the community, students, and village youth. KP Bharathi, advisor of DHAN Tourism for Development, emphasizes the importance of both tangible and intangible heritage in preserving culture. The foundation has orchestrated over 300 heritage walks in remote locations, transforming historically obscure sites into cultural landmarks. Addressing the erosion of heritage resources due to poverty, the DHAN Foundation has championed public-private-community partnerships, collaborating with organizations such as ASI, State Archaeology, Tourism Department, NABARD, and CSR institutions. Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the foundation has consistently organized heritage walks once a month for the past 10 years. The efforts of the DHAN Foundation extend beyond Madurai, resonating through Thanjavur to Tirunelveli, with contributions from professors S Rajavelu and N Athiyaman from Thanjavur Tamil University's Department of Maritime History and Marine Archaeology. These initiatives have not only preserved heritage but also celebrated it through cultural activities, fostering a sense of pride and appreciation among the younger generation.

9 Sep 2023

Star Citizens

Panchayat President Takes Underprivileged Students on a Skyward Journey, Fulfilling Dreams Beyond the Skies

In a heartwarming initiative, S. Gnanasekaran, a panchayat president in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, has taken around 400 underprivileged government school students and their parents on their first flight. This life-changing experience has been described by all participants as one "to be cherished forever." Gnanasekaran, who understands the struggles of underprivileged students, having completed his own studies in a government school, was inspired to launch the program after witnessing the joy and thrill in the eyes of kids from an orphanage during a flight in 2016. Since 2019, he has organized multiple one-day flight trips, offering students a memorable journey from Coimbatore to Chennai. The trips include visits to popular landmarks like the Anna Centenary Library, BM Birla Planetarium, and Marina beach, providing a perfect blend of fun and learning for the children and their families. Despite a pause in the trips due to the pandemic, Gnanasekaran resumed the initiative in 2022 and continues to make dreams come true in 2023. Alongside the flight journeys, he also supports single-child families with financial assistance and provides scholarships to SC/ST students in his panchayat. Gnanasekaran's unwavering dedication and commitment to empowering underprivileged students have made him a beloved figure in the village. His ultimate goal is to continue taking these children on flight journeys, igniting their dreams and helping them reach new heights in life.

8 Sep 2023

Star Citizens

Visionary Scholar: 32-Year-Old Software Engineer Empowers Visually Impaired Children in Tamil Nadu with Education Mission

Gomathi K, a 32-year-old software engineer, is on a mission to educate visually impaired children in Tamil Nadu. Gomathi completed her studies from a government school and went on to take a bachelor’s degree in engineering. She is now a successful software engineer based in Germany. Gomathi started her mission by helping visually-impaired children pay their fees, but soon she dug deeper to find out their everyday battles. She took the help of visually-impaired people who were skilled in teaching to assist these dropouts. Eventually, she began to convert important study material for competitive exams, including bank tests and UPSC exams, into audio books. Gomathi even organised health camps and workshops specifically for visually impaired children. With the assistance of her friends and guided volunteers, she has produced over 300 audio recordings to support visually impaired individuals. She is continuously working towards empowering the visually impaired community, especially children. Gomathi and her group of friends are planning on converting more books to audio files. "The ongoing project involves transforming the book ‘India Varalatril Bhagavad Geethai’ into an audio format," says Gomathi. Apart from this, Gomathi is also part of a team called ‘Our Village Our Responsibility,’ which was founded in the USA by a Tamil group. She works as a coordinator for the state of Tamil Nadu to provide financial assistance to students from poor farming communities and support their education. As of now, over 150 students are receiving help from the group. They have also donated 36 cows for the poor and underprivileged farmer families.

27 Jul 2023

Star Citizens

From Desolation to Delight: The Heartwarming Tale of TN's Villupuram Home

Shanthi Nilayam, a shelter for abandoned and runaway children in Villupuram, Tamil Nadu, has been providing a safe haven for over 12,000 children in the last 34 years. Founded by Antony D’Cruz, who himself had a lost childhood, the shelter provides food, shelter, education, and guidance to children who have been abandoned or are in need of support. Many of the children who have found refuge at Shanthi Nilayam were rescued from Villupuram Railway Station, where they were abandoned. The shelter also rescues minors from the clutches of labour exploitation, and its teachers provide free classes even in rural areas and cemeteries near Dalit settlements. Shanthi Nilayam has guided children to enrol in technical education at ITIs and has sent a batch of 100 students between 2000 to 2017. The shelter has given a dignified life to 1,700 children this way. Through the shelter, D’Cruz has helped Dalit residents of Salamedu and Anna Nagar areas to avail financial aid for building houses and higher education. D’Cruz, who no longer keeps kids at the shelter, opens its doors for those who cannot afford tuition. He is committed to working for the rights of children and breaking the shackles of child labour. Shanthi Nilayam continues to be a beacon of hope for children in need of support and guidance, transforming the lives of many abandoned and runaway children.

25 Jul 2023

Star Citizens

Meet the Birdman of India Who Is on a Mission to Save India's Sparrows From Extinction

Sharavanan Krishnamoorthy, also known as the "Sparrow Man of Sirkazhi," has dedicated his life to protecting and conserving the sparrow population in his hometown in Tamil Nadu, India. He is a 45-year-old civil engineer, who has been working to promote sparrow conservation for over a decade. Krishnamoorthy's efforts have included building hundreds of sparrow nests, educating local school children about the importance of sparrow conservation, and conducting sparrow census surveys in his community. He and his team of carpenters have made over 900 birdhouses in the past five years and distributed them across the country. The birdhouses are made of plywood and are non-toxic, also having a slot for wall mounting. The sparrow population in India has been in decline in recent years, with habitat loss and pollution among the major factors contributing to their dwindling numbers. Krishnamoorthy's work has helped to raise awareness about the importance of protecting these birds and preserving their habitats. As Krishnamoorthy continues his efforts to protect and conserve the sparrow population in Sirkazhi, he serves as an inspiration to others to take action and make a difference in their communities. His work is a reminder of the importance of preserving the natural world and protecting the biodiversity that sustains us all.

25 Mar 2023

Star Citizens

This Tamil Nadu Farmer Earns 1.5 Crore per Year. Know How

As a farmer, earning a yearly income of Rs 1.5 crore may seem like a far-fetched dream. However, for one farmer in India, this dream has become a reality thanks to a machine that turns banana waste into rope. P M Murugesan, a farmer from the village of Kottur in Tamil Nadu, India, has developed a machine that turns banana waste into rope. This innovative solution not only helps to reduce waste but also creates a new source of income for Murugesan, who earns approximately Rs 1.5 crore (approximately $204,000) per year from the sale of the rope. The machine, which was developed with the help of local engineers, works by shredding the banana waste and then using heat and pressure to turn it into a dense, strong rope. The process is environmentally friendly and helps to reduce the amount of banana waste that ends up in landfills. Murugesan's success with the banana waste rope machine has inspired other farmers in the region to adopt similar waste management techniques. In addition to earning a significant income from the sale of the rope, Murugesan's machine has also helped to improve the overall health and sanitation of the village by reducing waste and improving the local environment. Murugesan's innovative solution is a great example of how entrepreneurs can find new and innovative ways to turn waste into valuable resources, while also helping to improve the environment and the quality of life in their communities.

19 Dec 2022

Star Citizens

A Teacher in Tamil Nadu Builds Toilets so That Girls Don’t Have to Skip School

A teacher in a government school in Tamil Nadu was shocked to know that girls don’t use toilets in school as they are in a very poor and unhygienic condition. The girls therefore skip school during their periods and on other days control their bladder as they have no proper toilets. Satheesh Kumar , a teacher at Poovalur Government Higher Secondary school in Tiruchy was very concerned for the hapless girls and decided to help them out. He initially geared up to make repairs and renovations to the existing toilets, but soon found that his efforts are in vain as 135 students had only one toilet with four cubicles. Kumar realized that the girls used toilets at home just before coming to school at 8 am and would relieve themselves only after going home at 4 pm. He decided to build a new toilet with the award money of Rs 50,000 which he had recently won for best teacher. Many people pitched in with funds to help. He resorted to crowdfunding and received donations from people all over in India. Thanks to his dedicated efforts, the school this month inaugurated a swanky new toilet for girls and female staff which was built at a cost of 10.50 lakhs. The construction of the toilet began in January 2019 and it was ready in November. There are 14 toilets for the girls and four toilets for teachers while one toilet is for the differently-abled. The toilet which is built on an 820-sq. ft area is equipped with a washbasin, napkin vending machines and incinerators. The sensitive and compassionate nature of Satheesh Kumar led him to do a noble act. The girls of the government schools are happy beyond measure. One girl exclaimed that the new toilet is a huge relief for them as they no longer have to control their bladder for eight hours and can henceforth, regularly attend school.

17 Dec 2019

Star Citizens

This 80 Year Old Grandmother Prepares and Sells Idlis for Just Re 1!

Words fall short to describe the caring grandmother who at the age of 80, makes and sells fluffy idlis, chutney and sambhar for just Re 1 per piece. Meet K Kamalathal, a grandmother from Vadivelampalayam in Tamil Nadu at whose house people flock early in the morning to devour her delicious idlis. Kamalathal belongs to a family of farmers and every day she would get bored when her family went to work on the farm. She decided to make idlis and serve them to the hungry and needy at a very low price. Majority of workers who throng the place are daily wage workers who are able to save their hard-earned money by eating breakfast at her place. Kamalthal says that a plate of idli cost Rs 25-30 outside and there may be only 4-5 idlis which may not suffice as most of them are daily wage workers who toil very hard to earn a living. So by paying per piece, the customer can eat till s/he is sated. Kamalathal wakes up before sunrise an goes to the farm to collect vegetables for sambhar. She herself makes the coconut chutney and the delicious sambhar. She cooks with firewood and never uses wet grinder, but herself prepares the batter for idlis in the evening by grinding the soaked urad dal and rice in a stone grinder which takes four hours. The batter gets fermented by next day morning and she prepares soft fresh idlis with the fresh batter. Many people advise Kamalathal to increase the rate of breakfast, but she wouldn’t do so as her aim is to feed the hungry. She is a great multitasker who very deftly serves the idlis to the crowd of people who wait in a queue to have a healthy and filling breakfast. The use of the stone grinder and mud stove impart a traditional and authentic taste to the morning meal. Although her children insist that she stop cooking and take care of her health, Kamalathal who has been selling idlis for 30 years, continues her service out of love for the people who come daily to partake of a healthy breakfast.

12 Sep 2019

Star Citizens

Act of Kindness: A Tamil Nadu Couple is the Reason Behind Several Smiles

How many times have you come forward and extended a helping hand towards those who need assistance the most? How often have you gone out of your way to do something for someone? And how many times have you pacified a hungry soul? Well! A couple from Tamil Nadu has done it innumerable times. The Philanthropic Act Several patients at the government Erode hospital have taken a sigh of relief as V Venkatraman and his wife’s philanthropic act has put a smile on their faces. The couple who owns a restaurant near the hospital, distributes food to its patients and their attendants for just Re 1 only. They make it a point to feed at least 70 people in a day. Indian Express reported that at the start of the day, the couple gives out 60 to 70 tokens. And depending on the needs of the patients and their attendants’, they provide breakfast, lunch or dinner. It was 12 years ago when Venkatraman learned that the patients at the hospital needed utmost care and that’s when he decided to offer them assistance in order to see them happy. Indian Express also reported that after finding out the other common needs of the people at the government hospital, they even started supplying plates, blankets, footwear, and toiletries. Venkatraman and his wife have been the reason behind numerous smiles which has left us wondered how beautiful this world would be if more such people come into the picture. Image Courtesy: DT Next

30 Jul 2019

Star Citizens

Positive Reads

Opening New Worlds: Know How Chennai's Anna Centenary Library Empowers the Visually Impaired

The Anna Centenary Library in Chennai has taken a remarkable step towards empowering visually impaired researchers and students preparing for competitive exams with its special Braille section. Spread over eight acres, the library offers a vast collection of books and facilities that make people with disabilities feel at home. This section of the library is equipped with superior technology, including computers with non-visual desktop access, digital collections of books for competitive examinations in both Tamil and English, Braille typewriters, audio-enabled scan reading, and more. The Braille section of the library currently boasts a collection of 2,000 books related to competitive examinations, and it also enables readers to copy the books to their pen drives or other storage devices. The regular collection extends to 3,500 books, encompassing various subjects like literature, public administration, economics, sociology, mathematics, engineering, science, medical history, political science, geography, and more. The volunteers here support the visually impaired job seekers to apply for competitive examinations. The library also facilitates book releases with a 60% discount and provides an auditorium for special meetings. The primary aim of the library is to guide research scholars and provide them with appropriate resources. The Braille section extends its volunteer services to visually impaired students who are preparing for competitive exams such as TNPSC, UPSC, staff selection, banking, RRB, UGC-NET & JRF, among others. The visually impaired readers can also access daily newspapers in Tamil and English scanned by the library staff and e-mailed to them. The library offers a supportive and nurturing environment for visually impaired students, making knowledge accessible to all.

2 Aug 2023

Positive Reads