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Chief minister-designate VD Satheesan unveiled a 21-member UDF cabinet ahead of Monday’s swearing-in ceremony in Kerala. Fourteen ministers, including Satheesan, are first-timers. The ministry includes two women and two Scheduled Caste members. Congress secured 11 berths, while IUML received five. Satheesan said the entire cabinet would take oath together for the first time in nearly six decades.

AIADMK faces a deepening power struggle as senior leaders and MLAs convene meetings amid electoral setbacks. Factions led by Edappadi K Palaniswami and S P Velumani are vying for legislature party leadership, with competing claims submitted to the pro-tem Speaker. This marks the third major split threat in the party's history.

Early trends for the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections show a significant shift, with the Congress-led UDF projected for a commanding victory, leading in over 100 seats. The ruling LDF faces strong anti-incumbency, while the BJP remains a marginal player. This outcome suggests a return to Kerala's traditional pattern of alternating governments.

Tamil Nadu's high voter turnout signals a crucial election. Chief Minister Stalin's DMK seeks continuity, while the AIADMK aims for a comeback. Actor Vijay's TVK emerges as a significant challenger, particularly among younger voters. Key constituencies like Kolathur and Perambur are witnessing intense multi-cornered contests, setting the stage for a decisive outcome.

Tamil Nadu's intense election campaign has concluded. The M K Stalin-led Secular Progressive Alliance has an edge. Edappadi K Palaniswami's National Democratic Alliance is a contender. Actor Vijay's TVK could influence the outcome. The election hinges on governance, identity, and federalism debates. Voters await the final decision.

Tamil Nadu CM M K Stalin seeks a second consecutive term, campaigning on his 'Dravidian Model 2.0' and highlighting welfare schemes. He frames the election as a Centre vs. state battle, positioning himself as protector of Tamil rights against the BJP.

Chief Minister Stalin launched his campaign in Tiruvarur, targeting the crucial Cauvery delta region. DMK aims to replicate its 2021 success by wooing farmers with promises and fielding strong candidates. However, challenges like factional feuds and opposition alliances may make this election tougher than anticipated for the ruling party.

The makers of director M Rajesh's next full lengthy comedy entertainer, 'Jolliya Irrundha Oruthan', featuring actor Jiiva in the lead, on Saturday announced that shooting for the film had now been wrapped up.

The producer is survived by his survived by wife Kunjamma, children Josy, Mathew, Beena, Ruby and Anu

Writer, critic and biographer, Prof M K Sanu, has been chosen for this year's Ezhuthachan Puraskaram, the highest literary honour given by the Kerala government.