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Kerala Government Under Fire for Borrowing ₹7,721 Crore Using NPS as Leverage; Employees Allege Betrayal

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Kerala Government Under Fire for Borrowing ₹7,721 Crore Using NPS as Leverage; Employees Allege Betrayal

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Left Democratic Front (LDF) government in Kerala has landed in a major controversy following revelations that it borrowed approximately ₹7,721.62 crore from the Central Government by leveraging the National Pension System (NPS). While the government came to power promising to scrap the contributory pension scheme, critics and employee unions now allege that the administration is maintaining the status quo solely to exploit borrowing loopholes.

​According to latest reports, the Kerala government utilized a central provision that allows states to borrow additional funds—a percentage of their Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP)—provided they strictly adhere to NPS contribution norms. Since 2022, the state has consistently tapped into this “bonus” borrowing capacity:

  • ​2022-23: ₹1,755.34 crore
  • ​2023-24: ₹1,967.86 crore
  • ​2024-25: ₹1,998.42 crore
  • ​2025-26 (Estimated): ₹2,000 crore

​Diversion of Funds and Employee Discontent

The primary grievance of government employees is that the borrowed capital, intended as an incentive for pension security, is being diverted to cover the state’s day-to-day revenue expenditures. While neighboring Tamil Nadu has made strides in pension reforms under the Stalin administration, Kerala’s official committee report on withdrawing NPS remains in “cold storage” years after submission.

​Employees argue that the Finance Department is hesitant to scrap NPS because doing so would immediately disqualify the state from accessing these massive annual loans, which are vital for managing the state’s ongoing fiscal crisis.

​Key Allegations Against the Government:

  1. ​Low Contribution Rates: While the Central Government raised its NPS contribution to 14%, Kerala continues to pay only 10%, citing financial constraints.
  2. ​Denial of Benefits: Thousands of employees under the NPS are being denied Death-cum-Retirement Gratuity (DCRG) benefits.
  3. ​The “Debt Trap”: Unions allege the government is “selling” the future security of its workforce to sustain current spending.

​As the 2026 Budget approaches, there are whispers of a possible hike in the government’s pension contribution. However, for many government employees who were promised a return to the Statutory Pension Scheme, these “loan figures” represent a breach of trust by the state leadership.

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan Appears Dejected: IAS Officer’s Remarks Spark Talk

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Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan Appears Dejected: IAS Officer’s Remarks Spark Talk

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Following a significant setback in the recent local body elections, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan appears to be in a state of deep despondency, according to reports from within the State Secretariat. Observers and high-ranking officials have noted that the Chief Minister, once known for his commanding presence and stern authority, seems to have lost his characteristic vigor amidst a rising tide of anti-incumbency and recent controversies.

​The shift in the Chief Minister’s body language became a major talking point during a high-level meeting of Department Secretaries held yesterday. Addressing the IAS officers, the Chief Minister reportedly spoke in a subdued tone, signaling a sense of impending departure.

​”The Model Code of Conduct will come into effect within a month and a half. We have very little time left. Everyone must cooperate to ensure that announced projects are completed as quickly as possible,” the Chief Minister told the officers. He also hinted that the upcoming budget would contain new announcements but reminded the officials that the government’s powers would be limited once the election notification is issued.

​The change in his demeanor—traditionally marked by confidence and gravity—reportedly left many officers surprised. Following the meeting, a senior IAS officer was overhead remarking to a colleague, “The Chief Minister has lost his radiance and energy (Ojas and Thejas).”

​The political atmosphere in Kerala has become increasingly tense for the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF). The combination of the local body election defeat, the Sabarimala gold theft controversy, and a general sentiment of anti-incumbency has put the government on the defensive. While the opposition appears re-energized and ready for the upcoming Assembly elections, the Chief Minister’s recent behavior suggests a “farewell mood,” indicating that the leadership may be bracing for a difficult electoral battle ahead.

Kerala Tourism Named Destination Partner for 70th Filmfare Awards South; Government Sanctions ₹4.6 Crore

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Kerala Tourism Named Destination Partner for 70th Filmfare Awards South; Government Sanctions ₹4.6 Crore

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – In a significant move to boost the state’s global travel profile, the Government of Kerala has officially issued an order to partner with the prestigious 70th Filmfare Awards South. Under this partnership, the Kerala Tourism Department will serve as the “Destination Partner” for the landmark event, which celebrates the best of Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada cinema.

​According to the Government Order (G.O. Rt No. 14/2026/TSM) dated January 5, 2026, administrative sanction has been accorded for an amount of ₹4,60,20,000 (Four Crores Sixty Lakhs and Twenty Thousand Rupees), including GST, for the partnership. The decision follows a proposal submitted by the Director of Tourism and subsequent approval by the Departmental Working Group on Plan Schemes.

​Showcasing ‘God’s Own Country’ to the World

​This marks a historic moment as it is the first time the Filmfare South Awards will be hosted in Kerala. The event is expected to draw the biggest superstars, filmmakers, and technicians from the South Indian film fraternity, providing a massive platform for Kerala to showcase its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

​The government aims to leverage the event’s high viewership and celebrity presence to promote Kerala as a premier destination for film tourism and luxury travel. The funds for the partnership will be drawn from various accounts, including the “Development of Eco-tourism Products” and “Marketing and Promotion” heads.

​Key Details of the Order:

  • ​Official Status: Kerala Tourism designated as the official “Destination Partner.”
  • ​Financial Sanction: ₹4.60 Crore total budget approved.
  • ​Execution: The Director of Tourism is authorized to execute the project and sign necessary agreements with the organizers.
  • ​Objective: To utilize the event’s popularity to highlight Kerala’s tourism offerings to a national and international audience.

​The 70th edition of the Filmfare Awards South is anticipated to be one of the most glamorous celebrations of Indian cinema this year. By aligning with such a high-profile brand, the Kerala Tourism Department expects a significant surge in domestic and international interest in the state’s tourism sector.

Change of Guard Imminent? Top Kerala Officer Set to Quit for Mumbai Business Venture Amid Political Shifting

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Change of Guard Imminent? Top Kerala Officer Set to Quit for Mumbai Business Venture Amid Political Shifting

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The corridors of the Kerala Secretariat are abuzz with reports of a senior official, long considered a close confidant of the Pinarayi Vijayan-led LDF government, preparing to resign and relocate to Mumbai.

​According to sources, the official’s sudden decision follows the LDF’s poor performance in the recent local body elections. With the upcoming Assembly elections casting a shadow of uncertainty over the current government’s continuity, the officer reportedly fears potential investigations and legal scrutiny into past administrative decisions should a new government take power.

​The move is being viewed by many in the Secretariat as a proactive measure to avoid future litigation. Reports suggest the official plans to launch a private business in Mumbai, a transition for which preparations were allegedly already underway. As the political climate in Kerala shifts, the exit of such a key administrative figure has sparked intense debate within political and bureaucratic circles.

​’Go Tell Him I’m Terrified’!: Viral Photo Captures CM Pinarayi’s Car Passing LoP V.D. Satheesan’s Challenging Poster

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​’Go Tell Him I’m Terrified’!: Viral Photo Captures CM Pinarayi’s Car Passing LoP V.D. Satheesan’s Challenging Poster

Thiruvananthapuram: In the midst of escalating political friction in Kerala, a striking photograph capturing a symbolic face-off between the ruling and opposition fronts has gone viral on social media. The image shows Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s official ‘No. 1’ vehicle passing directly in front of a massive flex board featuring Leader of the Opposition (LoP) V.D. Satheesan at the main gate of the Kerala Secretariat.

​The poster, installed by the Kerala Secretariat Association, depicts a defiant V.D. Satheesan pointing forward with the bold caption: “Tell them I got scared…” (a sarcastic retort often used in Kerala politics to signal fearlessness). 

​The perfectly timed shot was captured by renowned photographer K.B. Jayachandran around 1:00 PM yesterday as the Chief Minister was returning home from the Secretariat.

​Political observers view the placement of the board as a direct challenge to the Chief Minister, especially as the opposition intensifies its attack over various corruption allegations and recent investigative reports. As debates over the “Punarjani” case and election post-mortems heat up, this image has become a powerful tool for opposition supporters, circulating widely across platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook as a symbol of political defiance.

Jana Nayagan Budget: Vijay’s Salary and Mamitha Baiju Remuneration Revealed

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Jana Nayagan Budget: Vijay’s Salary and Mamitha Baiju Remuneration Revealed

Chennai: The stage is set for one of the biggest cinematic spectacles in Indian history. As Thalapathy Vijay prepares to bid farewell to his illustrious acting career with his final film, Jana Nayagan, the excitement has reached a fever pitch. Directed by H. Vinoth, this political action thriller is not just a movie; it is an emotional milestone for millions of fans. Recent reports have now pulled back the curtain on the staggering financial scale of the project, revealing a budget that reflects Vijay’s unmatched superstardom.

​A Massive Budget for a Grand Exit

​According to industry reports, Jana Nayagan is being produced with a colossal budget of approximately ₹380 crore. Out of this, a significant portion—nearly ₹272.6 crore—has been allocated solely for the remuneration of the star-studded cast, while the core production costs are estimated at around ₹80 crore. This massive investment underscores the production house KVN Productions’ commitment to giving the actor a legendary send-off.

​Thalapathy Vijay: The Highest-Paid Indian Actor?

​The highlight of the financial breakdown is Thalapathy Vijay’s record-breaking salary. Reports suggest that for his final appearance on the silver screen, the actor has been paid a staggering ₹220 crore to ₹275 crore. This figure potentially places him as the highest-paid actor in Indian cinema, surpassing even the industry’s biggest stalwarts.

​Mamitha Baiju and the Supporting Cast

​The film also features a powerhouse ensemble. Malayalam sensation Mamitha Baiju, who has seen a meteoric rise in popularity, is reportedly receiving a remuneration of ₹60 lakhs for her role in the film. Other lead members, including Pooja Hegde and Bobby Deol, have also received substantial paychecks, with Hegde reportedly commanding around ₹6 crore. Director H. Vinoth, the captain of the ship, is said to have received approximately ₹25 crore for helming this ambitious project.

Anticipation and Controversy

​While the financial figures are awe-inspiring, the film has not been without its share of talk. A recent trailer release sparked intense debate on social media regarding certain technical aspects, but the “Vijay wave” continues to dominate the box office pre-sales. In the UK alone, the film has already shattered records, selling over 12,700 tickets within the first 24 hours of booking.

​As Jana Nayagan hits theaters on January 9, 2026, the world watches to see if this “People’s Hero” will conquer the box office one last time before transitioning into his new role in the political arena.

Mammootty and Nayanthara to Reunite? Big Update on Adoor Gopalakrishnan’s Upcoming Masterpiece

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Mammootty and Nayanthara to Reunite? Big Update on Adoor Gopalakrishnan’s Upcoming Masterpiece

Kochi: The Malayalam film industry is buzzing with excitement as reports emerge of a spectacular casting coup. South Indian “Lady Superstar” Nayanthara is reportedly set to reunite with the legendary Mammootty for his highly anticipated project with master director Adoor Gopalakrishnan.

​This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Indian cinema. While Mammootty and Adoor Gopalakrishnan have previously created classics like Anantaram, Mathilukal, and Vidheyan, this new project ends a 30-year hiatus between the actor and the auteur.

​A New Story Over a Classic Adaptation

Initially, there were whispers that the duo would adapt Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai’s iconic novel Randidangazhi. However, latest updates suggest that Adoor has opted for a contemporary original story penned by himself. The director recently confirmed that Mammootty was his only choice for the lead role, stating, “Mammootty is the perfect match for the character.”

​The Mammootty-Nayanthara Magic

If the casting is finalized, this will mark yet another collaboration for Mammootty and Nayanthara, who have previously shared screen space in hits like Rappakal, Thaskaraveeran, and Bhaskar the Rascal. Interestingly, the duo is also part of Mahesh Narayanan’s 2026 multi-starrer Patriot, which features Mohanlal and Fahadh Faasil.

​Production Details

The film is being produced under the Mammootty Kampany banner, marking its eighth production. Adding to the technical brilliance, Shehnad Jalal (of Bramayugam fame) is in talks to handle the cinematography. The movie is expected to go on floors by the end of January 2026.

​With Adoor Gopalakrishnan returning to the director’s chair after his 2016 film Pinneyum, cinephiles are eagerly waiting to see if this “Dream Team” will deliver another National Award-winning masterpiece.

Tamil Nadu Restores Old Pension Scheme: Will Kerala Follow the ‘Stalin Model’ or Remain in Limbo?

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Tamil Nadu Restores Old Pension Scheme: Will Kerala Follow the ‘Stalin Model’ or Remain in Limbo?

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – In a landmark move for labor rights, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has officially implemented the rollback of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), delivering on a long-standing demand of government employees.

​The decision restores a structured pension system where retirees are guaranteed 50% of their last drawn basic pay. Key highlights of the restored scheme include:

  • ​Inflation Protection: Monthly pensions will now include Dearness Relief (DR) adjustments.
  • ​Enhanced Security: Employees are eligible for Death-cum-Retirement Gratuity (DCRG) benefits of up to ₹20 lakh.

​The implementation comes as a strategic victory for employee unions, who had recently threatened industrial action across Tamil Nadu.

​The Kerala Contrast: A Seven-Year Wait

​While Tamil Nadu moves forward, the neighboring state of Kerala remains stagnant. Despite the first Pinarayi Vijayan government appointing a review committee to study the CPS withdrawal, the resulting 2018 report continues to gather dust.

​Critics point out that while the Central Government and several other states have extended DCRG benefits to CPS employees, Kerala has remained firm in its refusal. Former Finance Minister T.M. Thomas Isaac and current Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal have consistently maintained in the Legislative Assembly that such benefits are not mandatory for those under the contributory system.

​Fiscal Concerns and Pending Files

​Financial data reveals that since 2022, the Kerala government has been borrowing approximately ₹2,000 crore annually specifically to cover contributory pension liabilities. Despite this mounting financial pressure, the file containing the review committee’s recommendations has reportedly been sitting on Minister Balagopal’s desk since July 2021.

​As Tamil Nadu sets a new precedent with the “Stalin Model,” the pressure is mounting on the LDF government in Kerala. Employees are now asking: Will Kerala honor the 2018 recommendations, or will the state continue to delay action as pension liabilities grow?

​”God Created Man from Soil”: VD Satheesan Recalls Biblical Parables, Demands Unconditional Land Titles for Kerala Farmers

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​”God Created Man from Soil”: VD Satheesan Recalls Biblical Parables, Demands Unconditional Land Titles for Kerala Farmers

KATTAPPANA: In a powerful show of solidarity with the farming community, Leader of the Opposition VD Satheesan called upon the Kerala government to immediately grant unconditional land titles (upadhi-rahitha pattayam) to the state’s struggling farmers.

​Speaking at the inauguration of the Silver Jubilee celebrations of the Indian Farmers Movement (INFAM) in Kattappana on Saturday, Satheesan emphasized that no society can progress by ignoring those who till the land.

​Spiritual Reflection on Farming

​The Opposition Leader, known for his deep-rooted oratory, drew inspiration from biblical teachings to highlight the dignity of labor. Quoting the seventh proclamation of Christ, he reminded the audience: “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener.”

​Satheesan noted that Christ’s parables were often centered around farming and shepherding, reflecting a deep connection to the earth. “We must all realize that man was created from the soil in the image of God. Therefore, the struggles of the farmer are the struggles of humanity,” he stated.

​A Call for Action on Land Titles

​Beyond the spiritual reflections, Satheesan’s speech took a sharp political turn as he addressed the long-standing grievance regarding land titles in the high ranges. He urged the state government to stop imposing restrictive conditions on farmers and instead provide them with the legal right to their land without hurdles.

​”A society can only be happy when its farmers are happy,” Satheesan remarked, pledging the United Democratic Front’s (UDF) unwavering support for INFAM’s ongoing crusade for farmers’ rights.

​Warm Reception

​The event saw a massive turnout, with organizers welcoming Satheesan as a “Prince of Firm Stands” and a leader who understands the essence of both modern politics and traditional wisdom. His detailed analysis of the agrarian crisis was met with widespread applause from the delegates and farming families present at the jubilee meet.

​As INFAM marks 25 years of advocacy, the call for unconditional land titles is expected to become a central theme in the upcoming political discourse in Kerala.

BTS is Back! Global Icons Confirm Official Comeback Date for March 20, 2026

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BTS is Back! Global Icons Confirm Official Comeback Date for March 20, 2026

SEOUL – The long-awaited “Spring Day” for millions of fans worldwide has finally been given a date. Global pop juggernauts BTS have officially confirmed they will make their grand return to the music scene on March 20, 2026.

​The announcement, which sent shockwaves through social media, marks the end of a nearly four-year hiatus for the group. This break saw all seven members—RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—successfully complete their mandatory South Korean military service while also dominating global charts with successful solo projects.

​A Personal Reveal for ARMY

​In a move that touched the hearts of their global fanbase, known as ARMY, the news was first teased through personal, handwritten New Year letters sent to fan-club members. The letters featured a sleek new logo and the significant date: 2026.03.20.

​BigHit Music later solidified the news with an official statement, confirming that the group will release a brand-new album on that date. This will be their first collective project since the anthology album Proof was released in June 2022.

​What to Expect: New Album and World Tour

​While the title and concept of the upcoming album remain a closely guarded secret, the members have hinted at a deeply personal project. In his letter, group leader RM shared, “I’ve been waiting for this moment more desperately than anyone.”

​The comeback is not just limited to the studio. Reports suggest that BTS is preparing for a massive world tour in 2026, rumored to include over 60 dates across North America, Europe, and Asia. Indian fans are particularly excited, as recent teasers have sparked hope that India might finally be a stop on the group’s global map.

​The Countdown Begins

​As the members reunite at their headquarters in Seoul, the industry is bracing for what is expected to be one of the biggest musical events of the decade. With the members now fully discharged from duty, the “Kings of K-pop” are ready to reclaim their throne.

​For now, the countdown to March 20 has officially begun. As Jimin wrote in his note to fans: “Finally, the year we meet again is here.”

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