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Gold Price Hits All-Time High: โ‚น1,000 Hike Today; Sovereign Reaches โ‚น88,560

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Gold Price Hits All-Time High: โ‚น1,000 Hike Today; Sovereign Reaches โ‚น88,560

Kochi: The yellow metal has hit yet another all-time high, with gold prices registering a massive surge today. The price of gold saw an increase of โ‚น125 per gram, pushing the price of one gram to โ‚น11,070.
The price of an eight-gram sovereign (Pavan) saw a steep hike of โ‚น1,000, bringing the price of one sovereign to a record-breaking โ‚น88,560. The price of 18-carat gold rose to โ‚น9,100 per gram, while 14-carat gold increased to โ‚น7,100 per gram.

The historic rally is not confined to the domestic market. In the global market, gold is trading at record levels, crossing the \$3,900 mark per ounce for the first time ever. Gold is currently trading around \$3,922 per ounce. Spot gold prices rose by 0.9\% yesterday, and U.S. gold futures climbed 1\% to reach \$3,947.
Factors Driving the Surge

The surge in gold prices is primarily influenced by the increased likelihood of the U.S. central bank, the Federal Reserve, cutting interest rates, and the continued government shutdown in the U.S. Investors are increasingly turning to gold as a safe-haven asset amidst economic uncertainties, driving up demand and prices.

Over the last 25 years, the price of gold has seen an astonishing increase of 2726\%. On March 31, 2000, the price of one sovereign was a mere โ‚น3,212. The latest peak was registered on October 4, 2025, when the sovereign price touched โ‚น87,560.

Mohanlalโ€™s ‘Lal Salaam’ Honour Event Costs โ‚น2.84 Crore, Sparks Political Row in Kerala

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Mohanlalโ€™s ‘Lal Salaam’ Honour Event Costs โ‚น2.84 Crore, Sparks Political Row in Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala government’s felicitation event for Dadasaheb Phalke Award winner Mohanlal, titled ‘Lal Salaam’ and held on October 4, has snowballed into a major controversy after an official order revealed the event’s cost to be a staggering โ‚น2.84 crore.

โ€‹The Department of Cultural Affairs issued the order, confirming the expenditure of โ‚น2,84,00,000 for the event organised to honour the celebrated actor. The responsibility for the ‘Lal Salaam’ program was jointly handled by the Kerala State Film Development Corporation (KSFDC), the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy, and the Cultural Activists Welfare Fund Board.

โ€‹The event, inaugurated by the Chief Minister, immediately drew criticism, with opponents labelling it a “party program.” The presence of CPI(M) State Secretary M.V. Govindan Master on the dais was cited as evidence that the state-sponsored event had been politicized.

โ€‹Political Intent Alleged by Opposition

โ€‹AICC General Secretary K.C. Venugopal MP strongly criticised the event, alleging that the state government was using the occasion to push its political agenda.

โ€‹”The ceremony organised to honour actor Mohanlal, who won the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, clearly revealed the government’s political objectives,” Venugopal stated. He added that the Congress did not wish to politicise the honour of an artist loved by the people of Kerala, but questioned the organisers: “Should an artist like Mohanlal have been used for such political interests?”

โ€‹Venugopal further alleged that the government was conducting such expensive PR (Public Relations) events to divert public attention and overcome the “hatred people have for the government.” He accused the administration of using the felicitation as a tactic to escape the ongoing controversy surrounding the Sabarimala issue.

Election Heat Rises: Kerala Government Faces Crisis as Employees, Pensioners Protest โ‚น1 Lakh Crore Arrears; VD Satheesan to Inaugurate Assembly March on October 9

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Election Heat Rises: Kerala Government Faces Crisis as Employees, Pensioners Protest โ‚น1 Lakh Crore Arrears; VD Satheesan to Inaugurate Assembly March on October 9

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala state government is grappling with a significant challenge from its employees and pensioners, who are intensifying protests just ahead of the local body elections next month and the crucial Assembly elections in April. The government’s decision to withhold an estimated โ‚น1 Lakh Crore in accumulated benefits and arrears has sparked widespread discontent, threatening to severely impact the ruling front’s electoral prospects.

โ€‹Despite numerous protests over the withheld benefitsโ€”which include salary revision arrears, DA, and leave surrender amountsโ€”the government had previously chosen to overlook the grievances. However, with two major elections looming within eight months, the sustained anger of the nearly 12 lakh employees and pensioners is now a serious concern. Reports indicate that alienating this massive voter base could adversely affect the election results.

โ€‹In response to the government’s inaction, Opposition service organizations are stepping up their agitation. The Secretariat Action Council has announced a massive Legislative Assembly March (Niyamasabha March) on October 9 in Thiruvananthapuram. In a major boost to the protest, Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan is scheduled to inaugurate the march. The unconditional support extended by the entire United Democratic Front (UDF) coalition to the employees and pensioners has put the ruling government on the defensive.

โ€‹Key Demands of the October 9 March

โ€‹The Secretariat Action Council is pressing for the immediate fulfillment of several critical demands:

  1. โ€‹Immediate Implementation of Pay Revision: The long-pending salary revision arrears must be disbursed without further delay.
  2. โ€‹Minimum Interim Relief of โ‚น5,000: Grant an immediate interim relief of at least โ‚น5,000 to mitigate current financial hardships.
  3. โ€‹Disbursement of Withheld Arrears: Release of all accumulated financial benefits, including:
    • โ€‹Six instalments of Dearness Allowance (DA) arrears.
    • โ€‹Six years of Leave Surrender arrears.
    • โ€‹Pay Revision arrears.
    • โ€‹DA arrears pending from January 2020 onwards.
  4. โ€‹Restore Old Pension Scheme (OPS): Withdraw the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) and immediately reinstate the more secure Old Pension Scheme (OPS).
  5. โ€‹Revoke Promotional Bar on Union Leaders: Withdraw the administrative action to withhold the promotions of service organization leaders, which protestors view as an attempt to stifle democratic dissent.
  6. โ€‹Implement MEDISEP with Government Share: Effectively implement the MEDISEP (Mediclaim Scheme) with the necessary government contribution.
  7. โ€‹Protect Compassionate Appointment Rights: Safeguard the rights of compassionate appointments for dependents of deceased employees.

โ€‹The October 9 Assembly March, fueled by these critical financial and policy demands, is expected to draw immense public attention in the state capital. This powerful movement poses a serious political challenge to the state government and is likely to generate significant political momentum in the coming days.

Gold or Copper? Sabarimala Gate Cover Controversy Deepens as Proof of Gold Plating Emerges

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Gold or Copper? Sabarimala Gate Cover Controversy Deepens as Proof of Gold Plating Emerges

Thiruvananthapuram: The controversy surrounding the door guard (Dwarapalaka) idols’ covers at the Sabarimala Sannidhanam has taken a new turn, with evidence emerging that the covers were, in fact, gold-plated. Mathrubhumi News released images from March 2019 that clearly show the Dwarapalaka idols with a bright, golden covering.

The images were taken when the new gold-plated door was being installed at the Sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum) in March 2019. The pictures show the Dwarapalaka idols on either side of the door radiating a golden sheen. These were the same covers that were gold-plated by Vijay Mallya in 1998. The images suggest that despite being 20 years old, the panels did not appear to need immediate repair and were sparkling like new.

A crucial point of contention is that these seemingly gold-plated covers were handed over to Unnikrishnan Potti just four months later, in July 2019, for replating. However, the Devaswom Board’s letter of authorization to Potti listed them as “12 copper plates.” The discrepancy has raised serious questions about how the gold-plated covers of March could turn into simple copper plates by July.

Adding to the mystery, representatives of the company Smart Creations, where Potti eventually took the panels for gold electroplating after 39 days, claim they received original pure copper sheets. They stated that their electroplating machines cannot be used on old, gold-plated, or tarnished copper; they only use pure copper sheets for plating before sending them back to the temple.

The evidence now suggests two possibilities that require investigation: was Potti handed the gold-plated panels, and were new, different copper panels returned to the temple? Or, were the gold-plated panels replaced with copper ones somewhere in the three months between the photo being taken and the covers being handed over for replating?

Star Magic’s Ullas Pandalam Reveals Stroke Scare: Comedian’s Emotional Video Shocks Fans

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Star Magic’s Ullas Pandalam Reveals Stroke Scare: Comedian’s Emotional Video Shocks Fans

Thiruvananthapuram: Malayalam actor and mimicry artist Ullas Pandalam has left his fans in shock after a video of him attending an inaugural event went viral. The video, where he appeared frail and struggled to walk, prompted discussions about his deteriorating health.

Ullas, escorted to the stage by fellow “Star Magic” star Lakshmi Nakshathra, was seen relying heavily on a walking stick and displayed visible weakness in his limbs. Addressing the gathering, the popular comedian revealed that he had suffered a stroke and was currently on the path to recovery. He stated that his health issues were only known to a very close circle of friends until the video surfaced.Ullas Pandalam is a household name in Kerala, known for his unique body language, quick wit, and counter dialogues in various television comedy shows.

However, the recent video, clearly showing the loss of control in his left hand and his difficulty in mobility, has deeply worried his massive fan base.During the event, anchor Lakshmi Nakshathra expressed her wish to perform their usual lively dance routine once Ullas is fully recovered. The video ends on an emotional note, showing Ullas becoming tearful as he attempts to get into his car, with Lakshmi Nakshathra tearfully asking him to “Go with a smile.”

The actor recently got married for the second time, to Divya, an advocate and Panchayat Vice President, following the death of his first wife. The private ceremony drew attention and Ullas faced criticism and accusations online for remarrying soon after his loss. Fans are now praying for his swift return to full health.

Kerala Local Body Elections: State Election Commission Bans Transfer of Government Employees and Staff

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Kerala Local Body Elections: State Election Commission Bans Transfer of Government Employees and Staff

Thiruvananthapuram: In a significant move ahead of the upcoming General Elections to Local Self Government Institutions, the Kerala State Election Commission (SEC) has imposed a complete ban on the transfer of officers and staff across various government departments and institutions. The order (Order No.B2/101/2025-SEC), issued on October 3, 2025, invokes powers under Articles 243 K and 243 ZA of the Constitution of India and directs the immediate restriction of all such transfers.

Key Directives and Institutions Covered:

The transfer restriction is effective from October 3, 2025, and will remain in force until the completion of the entire election process. The ban applies to staff and officers under the control of the Chief Secretary and the Heads of all:

  • Government Departments
  • Local Self Government Institutions (LSGIs)
  • Educational Institutions (including Government and Aided)
  • Public Sector Undertakings, Statutory Boards, Corporations, and Universities
  • Other authorities as specified in the Kerala Panchayat Raj Act, 1994 (Sections 132 and 145) and the Kerala Municipality Act, 1994 (Sections 156 and 202).

Reasoning for the Ban:

The Commission is currently making “expeditious and time-bound preparations” for the conduct of elections, which includes preparing the list of officers and staff to be drafted for election duties. The collection of staff details is currently in progress using the e-drop software system, primarily involving employees of all Government and Aided Educational Institutions for deployment as presiding and polling officials.The Commission noted that the transfer or dislocation of any such officer at this stage would “disturb the whole election process” and is “bound to create serious dislocation and confusion and hence is likely to lead to grave disturbance in the election preparedness”. The order also notes previous instances of frequent transfers, which were frozen by the Commission.

Exemptions and Prior Clearance

The State Election Commission has clarified that in cases where the transfer of an officer is “inevitable on account of administrative exigency,” the concerned Government or Head of the Office/Department must approach the State Election Commission or the District Election Officer for prior clearance with full justification.The order highlights that these directions are issued in furtherance of a free and fair election. The Commission has also appointed Returning Officers from various departments for all levels of Panchayats and Municipal bodies.

SSC Announces 3,073 Sub-Inspector Vacancies in Delhi Police & CAPFs; Apply by Oct 16

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SSC Announces 3,073 Sub-Inspector Vacancies in Delhi Police & CAPFs; Apply by Oct 16

New Delhi: The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has released the much-awaited notification for the recruitment of Sub-Inspectors (SI) in the Delhi Police and various Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs). A total of 3,073 vacancies have been announced, offering a significant opportunity for graduates aspiring to a career in law enforcement and national security.

The first stage of the selection process, the Computer-Based Examination (Paper-I), is scheduled to be held in November-December 2025. The application window is now open on the official SSC portal, with exam centers available across the country, including seven locations in Kerala.

The last date for submitting online applications is October 16, 2025.

Vacancy Breakdown

The vacancies are distributed between the Delhi Police and five CAPFs, namely CRPF, BSF, ITBP, CISF, and SSB.

  • Total Vacancies: 3,073
  • Sub-Inspector in Delhi Police: 212 (Male – 142, Female – 70)
  • Sub-Inspector in CAPFs: 2,861 (Male – 2,651, Female – 210)
    • CRPF: 1,029
    • BSF: 223
    • ITBP: 233
    • CISF: 1,294
    • SSB: 82

Key Dates and Eligibility

  • Application Deadline: October 16, 2025
  • Last Date for Fee Payment: October 17, 2025 (11 PM)
  • Application Correction Window: October 24 to October 26, 2025
  • Paper-I Exam Date: November-December 2025
  • Pay Scale: Level-6 (โ‚น35,400 – โ‚น1,12,400)
  • Educational Qualification: A Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
  • Driving License: Male candidates applying for the SI post in Delhi Police must possess a valid Driving License for LMV (Motorcycle and Car) before the physical test. This is not mandatory for CAPF posts.
  • Age Limit: 20 to 25 years as of August 1, 2025. Candidates must have been born between August 2, 2000, and August 1, 2005. Age relaxation is applicable for reserved categories.

Selection Process and Exam Pattern

The selection process for the SI posts is a multi-stage procedure:

  1. Paper-I: An objective Computer-Based Examination (CBE) of 200 marks with a 2-hour duration. It covers General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Knowledge & Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension.
  2. Physical Standard Test (PST) & Physical Endurance Test (PET): Candidates who qualify Paper-I will be shortlisted for physical tests.
  3. Paper-II: A 200-mark objective CBE focusing on English Language & Comprehension.
  4. Medical Examination: A detailed medical examination will be conducted for the final selection.
  • Exam Centers in Kerala: Ernakulam, Kannur, Kollam, Kottayam, Kozhikode, Thiruvananthapuram, and Thrissur. A center is also available in Kavaratti, Lakshadweep.

How to Apply

  • Application Mode: Candidates must apply online through the new SSC website https://ssc.gov.in or the mySSC mobile app after completing the mandatory One-Time Registration (OTR).
  • Application Fee: โ‚น100. Women, SC, ST, and Ex-servicemen candidates are exempted from the fee.
  • Photo Requirement: A live photograph and signature must be uploaded during the application process.

SSC Opens Massive Recruitment for 7,565 Delhi Police Constable Posts; Apply by Oct 21

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SSC Opens Massive Recruitment for 7,565 Delhi Police Constable Posts; Apply by Oct 21

New Delhi: The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has published a notification for a major recruitment drive, inviting applications for 7,565 Constable (Executive) positions in the Delhi Police. This is a significant opportunity for 12th-pass candidates, with dedicated vacancies for both male and female aspirants.

The first stage of the selection process, a Computer-Based Examination (CBE), is tentatively scheduled for December 2025 or January 2026. Examination centers will be available across the country, including major cities in Kerala and Kavaratti in Lakshadweep.

The online application process is now live on the new SSC portal and will conclude on October 21, 2025.

Key Dates to Remember

  • Online Application Window: September 22, 2025, to October 21, 2025 (11 PM)
  • Last Date for Fee Payment: October 22, 2025 (11 PM)
  • Application Correction Window: October 29 to October 31, 2025
  • Tentative Exam Date: December 2025 / January 2026

Vacancy Details

A total of 7,565 vacancies have been announced, with the following distribution:

  • Constable (Exe.) – Male: 4,408
  • Constable (Exe.) – Female: 2,496
  • Constable (Exe.) – Male (Ex-Servicemen – Commando): 376
  • Constable (Exe.) – Male (Ex-Servicemen – Others): 285

Eligibility Criteria

  • Pay Scale: Level-3 (โ‚น21,700 – โ‚น69,100)
  • Age Limit: 18 to 25 years. Candidates must have been born between July 2, 2000, and July 1, 2007. Age relaxation is applicable for SC/ST (5 years), OBC (3 years), and other categories as per rules.
  • Educational Qualification: Candidates must have passed 10+2 (Senior Secondary) from a recognized board.
  • Driving License (Male Candidates Only): Must possess a valid driving license for LMV (Motorcycle or Car) before the Physical Endurance & Measurement Test (PE&MT). A learner’s license is not acceptable.
  • Physical Standards:
    • Male: Minimum height of 170 cm and chest of 81 cm (with 4 cm expansion).
    • Female: Minimum height of 157 cm.
    • Relaxations in physical standards are applicable for specific categories.

Selection Process & Exam Pattern

The selection will be based on a multi-stage process:

  1. Computer-Based Examination (CBE):
    • An objective-type test with 100 questions for 100 marks, with a duration of 90 minutes.
    • Subjects: General Knowledge/Current Affairs (50 marks), Reasoning (25), Numerical Ability (15), and Computer Knowledge (10).
    • Negative Marking: 0.25 marks will be deducted for each wrong answer.
    • Bonus Marks: NCC certificate holders will receive bonus marks.
  2. Physical Endurance and Measurement Test (PE&MT): Candidates who qualify the CBE (approximately 12 times the number of vacancies) will be called for the PE&MT, which includes a 1600m run, long jump, and high jump.
  3. Medical Examination: Final selection is subject to medical fitness.

How to Apply

  • Application Mode: Candidates must apply online through the new SSC website: https://ssc.gov.in. One-Time Registration (OTR) is mandatory.
  • Application Fee: โ‚น100. Women, SC, ST, and Ex-servicemen candidates are exempted from the fee.
  • Photo Requirement: A live photograph must be captured and uploaded during the application process.

SSC Announces 552 Head Constable Vacancies in Delhi Police; Apply by Oct 15

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SSC Announces 552 Head Constable Vacancies in Delhi Police; Apply by Oct 15

New Delhi: The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has released an official notification for the recruitment of 552 Head Constables (Assistant Wireless Operator/Tele-printer Operator) in the Delhi Police. This recruitment drive offers a significant opportunity for both male and female candidates, with 182 posts reserved for women.

The selection process involves a computer-based examination, physical tests, and trade tests. Examination centers will be available across the country, including major cities in Kerala (Ernakulam, Kollam, Kottayam, Kozhikode, Thiruvananthapuram, Thrissur, Kannur) and Kavaratti in Lakshadweep.

The deadline for submitting online applications is October 15, 2025.

Vacancy Distribution

  • Total Posts: 552
  • Male Candidates: 370 (General-158, EWS-37, OBC-94, SC-48, ST-33)
  • Female Candidates: 182 (General-78, EWS-18, OBC-47, SC-23, ST-16)

Pay Scale and Eligibility Criteria

  • Pay Scale: Level-4 (โ‚น25,500 – โ‚น81,100)
  • Age Limit: 18 to 27 years as of July 1, 2025. Candidates must have been born not before July 2, 1998, and not later than July 1, 2007. Age relaxation is applicable for SC/ST (5 years), OBC (3 years), and other specified categories.
  • Educational Qualification:
    • A pass in 10+2 (Senior Secondary) with Science and Mathematics as subjects.
    • OR a National Trade Certificate (NTC) in the trade of Mechanic-cum-Operator Electronic Communication System.
    • Basic computer knowledge is also required.
  • Physical Standards:
    • Height: 170 cm for males and 157 cm for females.
    • Chest (Males only): 81 cm with a minimum expansion of 4 cm (81-85 cm).

Selection Process

The recruitment process will consist of multiple stages:

  1. Computer-Based Examination (CBE): A 100-mark objective test with a duration of 90 minutes. The exam, scheduled for December 2025 or January 2026, will cover General Awareness, General Science, Mathematics, Reasoning, and Computer Fundamentals.
  2. Physical Endurance & Measurement Test (PE&MT): Candidates qualifying the CBE will be called for physical tests.
  3. Trade Test: To assess proficiency in the required trade.
  4. English Word Processing Test: To evaluate computer typing skills.

Note: The CBE will be held at various centers, but all subsequent tests (PE&MT, Trade Test, etc.) will be conducted in Delhi.

How to Apply and Important Dates

  • Application Mode: Candidates must apply online through the official SSC website, https://ssc.gov.in, after completing the One-Time Registration (OTR) process.
  • Application Fee: โ‚น100. Women candidates and candidates belonging to SC, ST, and Ex-servicemen categories are exempted from payment.
  • Application Deadline: October 15, 2025
  • Last Date for Fee Payment: October 16, 2025
  • Application Correction Window: October 23 to October 25, 2025 (charges apply).

HUDCO Recruiting 79 Managers and Trainee Officers; Exam Center in Thiruvananthapuram

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HUDCO Recruiting 79 Managers and Trainee Officers; Exam Center in Thiruvananthapuram

New Delhi: The Housing and Urban Development Corporation (HUDCO) has announced a recruitment drive to fill 79 vacancies for various managerial and officer positions. The public sector undertaking is offering opportunities for both fresh graduates and experienced professionals in fields like Engineering, Finance, Law, and Human Resources.

Of the total openings, 42 are for the post of Trainee Officer, making it an excellent opportunity for freshers to start their careers. For the Trainee Officer position, a computer-based test will be conducted at various centers, including Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala.

Interested candidates must submit their applications online through the official HUDCO website by the deadline of October 17, 2025.

Opportunities for Freshers: Trainee Officer (42 Posts)

This entry-level position is ideal for young graduates looking to enter the public sector.

  • Pay Scale: โ‚น40,000 – โ‚น1,40,000
  • Age Limit: Should not exceed 28 years (age relaxation applicable for reserved categories).
  • Vacancy Breakdown:
    • Projects: 16
    • Finance: 15
    • Law: 4
    • Human Resource Management & Admin: 2
    • Information Technology: 2
    • Economics: 2
    • Official Language (Hindi): 1
  • Qualifications: A relevant degree with 60% marks, such as B.E./B.Tech, LLB, MBA/PGD (HR/PM/IR)/MHRM, or MA (Economics/Business Economics/Hindi).

Positions for Experienced Professionals (37 Posts)

HUDCO is also seeking experienced individuals for various managerial roles to strengthen its leadership and operational teams.

  • Deputy General Manager: 10 vacancies
  • Assistant General Manager: 5 vacancies
  • Senior Manager: 13 vacancies
  • Manager: 8 vacancies
  • Deputy Manager: 1 vacancy

Note: Detailed eligibility criteria for these experienced posts are available in the official notification.

Selection Process for Trainee Officers

The selection for the Trainee Officer post will be a two-stage process:

  1. Computer-Based Test (CBT): A 150-mark objective test with a duration of two hours. The medium of the exam will be English and Hindi.
  2. Interview: Candidates who qualify in the CBT will be shortlisted for a personal interview.

How to Apply

The application process is entirely online.

  • Application Fee:
    • Trainee Officer: โ‚น1000
    • Other Managerial Posts: โ‚น1500
    • SC and ST candidates are exempted from paying the application fee.
  • Official Website: For detailed notification and to apply, candidates must visit www.hudco.org.in.
  • Deadline: The last date for submitting the online application is October 17, 2025.
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