Kerala Bans All Sresan Pharmaceuticals Medicines From Sale Following Tamil Nadu License Cancellation

Kerala (Thiruvananthapuram): Health Minister Veena George has announced a ban on all medicines manufactured by Sresan Pharmaceuticals, a company based in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. This decision follows the cancellation of the company’s manufacturing license by the Tamil Nadu Drugs Controller. Consequently, these medicines are prohibited from distribution and sale within Kerala.

In a related development, the Gujarat Drugs Controller reported that Respifresh TR syrup (60ml, Batch No. R01GL2523), produced by Rednex Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd., Ahmedabad, failed to meet required quality standards. In response, the Kerala Drugs Control Department has immediately halted the distribution and sale of this medicine throughout the state. The syrup had been distributed by five suppliers in Kerala, all of whom have now been instructed to stop its distribution. Strict action will be taken against anyone found selling the drug illegally.

The public has been advised not to use this medicine if they currently possess it. The Health Minister clarified that these banned medicines are not supplied through government hospitals. Additionally, strict action will be taken against establishments that provide this medicine to children under 12 years of age without a prescription from a registered doctor.

Earlier, following the death of at least 14 children after consuming Coldrif syrup in Madhya Pradesh’s Chhindwara, the Kerala government constituted a committee to submit a report on the management of pediatric cough syrups. On Tuesday, Kerala Health Minister Veena George stated that the State Drugs Controller has imposed a ban on the specific cough syrup Coldrif, and the Kerala Medical Services Corporation Limited (KMSCL) does not supply this syrup to government hospitals.

Speaking to ANI, Minister Veena George said, “It’s unfortunate that 16 children died after consuming the cough syrup Coldrif. The Government of India has issued an advisory regarding the consumption of cough syrup. In Kerala, the Drugs Controller has issued a notification banning the sale of this particular cough syrup Coldrif in all pharmacies across the state.”

She further emphasized, “ColdRif is not included in our essential drugs list. It is not provided by KMSCL, which supplies medicines to government hospitals. However, we are ensuring that the sale of this syrup is completely stopped in private hospitals and pharmacies.”

The Minister noted that the committee on pediatric cough syrups will soon submit its report to the Kerala Government. “We have previously taken similar strict enforcement actions regarding antibiotics within the state. This committee specifically focuses on the management of pediatric cough, ensuring irrelevant combinations are not present in syrups. We plan to issue comprehensive guidelines concerning pediatric cough management, which is crucial,” she explained.

Minister Veena George also raised concerns about medical prescriptions saying, “Doctors have been prescribing cough syrups to children under the age of two years, which is neither advisable nor scientific. We do have protocols in place prohibiting cough syrup administration to children under two.”

She added, “This incident highlights the disregard for these protocols. The Kerala Health Department has instructed the Drugs Controller to issue notices to pharmacies prohibiting the sale of pediatric drugs without a doctor’s prescription.”

The Kerala government remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of children by strictly regulating the distribution and sale of pediatric medicines across the state.

*(This article has been auto-generated from an agency feed and has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team, except for the headline.)*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/kerala-bans-all-sresan-pharmaceuticals-medicines-from-sale-following-tamil-nadu-license-cancellation

Pakistan: At Least 19 TTP Militants, 11 Soldiers Killed Intelligence Based Operation In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

**Peshawar:** At least 19 militants of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) group were killed in a clash with the Pakistan military in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Orakzai district on Wednesday, October 8. The area borders Afghanistan.

Meanwhile, 11 Pakistani soldiers also lost their lives during the intelligence-based operation against terrorists belonging to “Fitna al-Khawarij.” According to a statement by the military’s media wing, among the deceased soldiers were a Lieutenant Colonel and a Major.

The names of the fallen soldiers have been disclosed as follows: Lieutenant Colonel Junaid Arif, Major Tayyab Rahat, Naib Subedar Azam Gul, Havildar Adil Hussain, Naik Gul Ameer, Lance Naik Talish Faraz, Lance Naik Sher Khan, Lance Naik Irshad Hussain, Sepoy Tufail, Sepoy Muhammad Zahid, and Sepoy Aqib Ali.

A sanitisation operation is currently underway to eliminate any remaining terrorists in the area, the military statement added.

In a related development, some reports claimed that 11 Pakistan security personnel were killed in an ambush by the TTP in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Kurram district on the same day. According to these reports, a convoy of paramilitary soldiers was first targeted by bombs, followed by intense gunfire from a large number of terrorists.

The TTP, in a statement to Reuters, confirmed that their fighters attacked the convoy.

Over the past few years, Pakistan has experienced a surge in militant attacks, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, after the banned TTP called off its ceasefire with the government in November 2022.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was the worst-hit region in the country during the third quarter of 2025. According to the latest statistics issued by the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS) and reported by PTI, the region suffered nearly 71 percent (638) of the total violence-linked fatalities and over 67 percent (221) of the incidents of violence nationwide.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/world/breaking-news-11-pakistan-army-soldiers-killed-in-ambush-by-ttp-in-khyber-pakhtunkhwas-kurram-district

EXCLUSIVE: Karan Singh Chhabra gears up to play an army officer in Pen Movies’ Control

**Karan Singh Chhabra to Play Army Officer in Pen Movies’ Upcoming Hindi Film *Control***

Talk show host and actor Karan Singh Chhabra, who recently appeared as himself in the popular TV show *Anupama*, is gearing up for a new and exciting role. He is set to portray an army officer in Pen Movies’ upcoming Hindi film *Control*.

Directed by Safdar Abbas and produced by Jayantilal Gada in association with Abhay Sinha and Pankaj Tiwari, *Control* is a cybercrime thriller scheduled to hit theatres on October 10, 2025.

Known for taking on varied and challenging roles, Karan Singh Chhabra has once again transformed his look for this film. After going completely bald for his role in *Chatrapathi*, he will now be seen in a turbaned avatar in *Control*. This transformation reflects his dedication to exploring diverse characters and appearances.

*Control* delves into the world of digital crime, a topic that resonates strongly in today’s technology-driven era. With its contemporary theme and intense narrative, the film aims to deliver a gripping cinematic experience for viewers.

Sharing his thoughts on the role, Karan expressed his enthusiasm for portraying a disciplined yet emotionally layered character. He noted that the project offers him an opportunity to grow further as an actor.

Backed by a strong production team and a timely subject matter, *Control* is shaping up to be an engaging watch when it releases this October.

Stay tuned for more updates on Bollywood news live.
https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/exclusive-karan-singh-chhabra-gears-play-army-officer-pen-movies-control/

Kharge Confident of Resolving Seat-Sharing Issue for Bihar Assembly Polls

**Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge Confident of Resolving Seat Sharing Issue Ahead of Bihar Assembly Polls**

Bengaluru: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday expressed confidence in resolving the seat sharing issue with alliance partners for the upcoming Bihar Assembly polls. He informed that a meeting of party leaders is scheduled for later in the day, which he will attend virtually.

The much-awaited Bihar Assembly elections, where the opposition bloc led by the RJD and the Congress aims to unseat the ruling NDA, will be held in two phases on November 6 and 11. The votes will be counted on November 14.

“We are going to solve this. Today there is a meeting at 2:30 pm. I’m also attending the meeting virtually. We are sorting it out,” Kharge told reporters in response to questions about the deadlock over seat sharing.

When asked about the number of seats the Congress will contest, he said, “We are not going to reveal how many seats we have decided now itself. In today’s meeting, we will discuss those where we have to compromise and on which there are no differences. After 2:30 pm, it will be known how many will be decided today and how many tomorrow.”

This marked Kharge’s first interaction with the media since his discharge from the hospital, where he underwent a procedure to have a pacemaker implanted last week.
https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/kharge-confident-of-resolving-seat-sharing-issue-for-bihar-assembly-polls-1908710

California Governor Newsom signs law making Diwali an official state holiday

California’s Governor Gavin Newsom announced on Tuesday that the content may be used at his absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/california-governor-newsom-signs-law-making-diwali-an-official-state-holiday-23597714

EXCLUSIVE: Karan Singh Chhabra gears up to play an army officer in Pen Movies’ Control

**Karan Singh Chhabra Gears Up to Play an Army Officer in Pen Movies’ Upcoming Film Control**

Talk show host and actor Karan Singh Chhabra, who recently appeared as himself in the TV show *Anupama*, is all set to take on a new challenging role. He will be seen portraying an army officer in Pen Movies’ upcoming Hindi film *Control*.

Directed by Safdar Abbas and produced by Jayantilal Gada in association with Abhay Sinha and Pankaj Tiwari, *Control* is a cybercrime thriller scheduled to release in theatres on October 10, 2025. The film delves into the world of digital crime, a subject that resonates deeply in today’s technology-driven era.

Known for embracing diverse roles, Karan Singh Chhabra has once again transformed his look for this film. After going completely bald for his role in *Chatrapathi*, he will now appear in a turbaned avatar in *Control*. This transformation highlights his dedication to exploring unique characters and appearances.

Sharing his thoughts on the role, Karan expressed enthusiasm for portraying a disciplined yet emotionally layered army officer. He noted that the project presents an excellent opportunity for him to grow as an actor.

Backed by a strong production team and a timely, contemporary theme, *Control* promises to deliver a gripping cinematic experience. Audiences can look forward to an engaging watch when the film releases in theatres this October.

Stay tuned to Bollywood News Live Updates for more on this and other exciting projects.
https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/exclusive-karan-singh-chhabra-gears-play-army-officer-pen-movies-control/

Maharashtra Rolls Out Rooftop Solar Scheme For Low Users, 90–95% Subsidy To Help Slash Electricity Bills To Zero

**Maharashtra Government Launches Major Rooftop Solar Subsidy Scheme for Low-Income Households**

Mumbai: In a significant move to promote clean energy and reduce electricity costs for disadvantaged families, the Maharashtra government has introduced the Swayampurna Maharashtra Residential Roof Top (SMART) Solar Scheme. This ambitious initiative aims to provide a substantial subsidy of 90 to 95 percent for eligible consumers to install rooftop solar panels, helping them cut their power bills to nearly zero by harnessing solar energy.

### Who Will Benefit from the Scheme?

The SMART Solar Scheme primarily targets Below Poverty Line (BPL), Scheduled Caste (SC), and Scheduled Tribe (ST) households that consume less than 100 units of electricity per month. Under this program, these families will pay only a small fraction of the installation cost, with the central and state governments covering the rest.

For instance, the cost of a 1KW solar system is approximately Rs 50,000. Here’s how the subsidy breaks down:

– **BPL Households:** Central government subsidy of Rs 30,000 + State government subsidy of Rs 17,500, with the consumer paying just Rs 2,500.
– **SC/ST Households:** Total subsidy of Rs 45,000, leaving the consumer responsible for Rs 5,000.
– **Other Low-Usage Consumers (below 100 units, not BPL/SC/ST):** Subsidy of Rs 40,000, with a consumer contribution of Rs 10,000.

### Budget and Implementation Plans

The Maharashtra government has allocated Rs 330 crore for the financial year 2025–26 and Rs 325 crore for 2026–27 to support this scheme. Implementation will be handled by the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL), funded through the state budget.

Officials expect the scheme to benefit at least 5 lakh families, including approximately 1.5 lakh BPL users and 3.5 lakh other low-usage households. After installation, the solar system supplier will manage maintenance for a period of five years, ensuring hassle-free operation for beneficiaries.

### Priority for Remote and Needy Areas

Special emphasis will be placed on remote and tribal regions such as Melghat, Nandurbar, and Gadchiroli, where affordable electricity access remains a challenge. The government hopes that by promoting rooftop solar power in these areas, not only will families receive inexpensive and reliable electricity, but they may also generate additional income by selling surplus solar energy back to the grid.

This initiative marks a critical step toward sustainable energy adoption and economic upliftment for some of Maharashtra’s most vulnerable communities.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/maharashtra-rolls-out-rooftop-solar-scheme-for-low-users-9095-subsidy-to-help-slash-electricity-bills-to-zero

Shabana Azmi becomes first Indian actor to be invited to conduct an acting masterclass at the Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute, New York

The legendary Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute in New York, renowned for training icons like Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, and Robert De Niro, has extended a rare honour to veteran actor Shabana Azmi.

After watching her acclaimed solo play *Broken Images*, the institute’s President, Victoria Kraner, personally invited Shabana Azmi to visit the school and conduct an acting masterclass for NYU theatre students. This marks a historic moment, as Azmi is the first Indian actor ever to receive such an invitation from the institution regarded as the mecca of acting.

When this writer reached out to the incomparable Shabana Azmi in the US, she expressed surprise. She said, “How did you get to know this so quickly? Yes, I have been invited to hold a masterclass at Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute. How do I react to this honour? Like I do to all recognition. Just keep working, and never stop to admire yourself. And if the recognition for your work does our country proud, then I am happy.”

Azmi was also recently seen sharing a happy moment with Robert Ellerman, Director and teacher, and Victoria Kraner, President of the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute.

*Also Read:*
[Shabana Azmi to tour North America with her play Broken Images, written by the legendary Girish Karnad]
https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/shabana-azmi-becomes-first-indian-actor-invited-conduct-acting-masterclass-lee-strasberg-theatre-film-institute-new-york/

Shabana Azmi becomes first Indian actor to be invited to conduct an acting masterclass at the Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute, New York

The legendary Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute in New York, renowned for training icons like Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, and Robert De Niro, has extended a rare honour to veteran actor Shabana Azmi.

After watching her acclaimed solo play *Broken Images*, the institute’s President, Victoria Kraner, personally invited Shabana Azmi to visit the school and conduct an acting masterclass for NYU theatre students. This marks a historic moment, as Azmi is the first Indian actor ever to receive such an invitation from the institution regarded as the mecca of acting.

When this writer reached out to the incomparable Shabana Azmi in the US, she expressed surprise. “How did you get to know this so quickly? Yes, I have been invited to hold a masterclass at Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute. How do I react to this honour? Like I do to all recognition: just keep working, and never stop to admire yourself. And if the recognition for your work does our country proud, then I am happy.”

Azmi was also recently seen sharing a happy moment with Robert Ellerman, Director and teacher, and Victoria Krane, President of the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute.

**Also Read:** [Shabana Azmi to tour North America with her play Broken Images, written by the legendary Girish Karnad]
https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/shabana-azmi-becomes-first-indian-actor-invited-conduct-acting-masterclass-lee-strasberg-theatre-film-institute-new-york/

Bengaluru Weather Update: IMD Issues Alert In These Regions Of Karnataka; Check Details

**Bengaluru Weather Update: Moderate to Heavy Rainfall Expected on October 8, 2025**

Bengaluru, the capital city of Karnataka, is set to experience moderate to heavy rainfall on Wednesday, October 8, 2025. Cloudy skies are also expected throughout the day, creating a mild and pleasant atmosphere for residents.

The city woke up at 6:09 AM, with minimum and maximum temperatures forecasted to range between 21°C and 27°C respectively. The sunset is expected at 6:09 PM.

According to the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC), which shared a detailed seven-day weather report on X (formerly Twitter), scattered light to moderate rain accompanied by strong winds and thundershowers will be widespread across the state. Coastal, Malnad, and South Interior districts are likely to experience heavy rainfall from today through October 12.

**Today’s Air Quality and Humidity**

Humidity levels in Bengaluru are expected to hover around 88%, contributing to the overall moisture in the air. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is forecasted to be approximately 30, indicating good air quality across the city and surrounding areas. This AQI level is expected to remain stable throughout the day.

**IMD Advisory**

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an advisory warning that the rainfall may cause temporary disruptions to electricity supply. There is also a possibility of minor traffic snarls and the uprooting of weak tree branches due to strong winds.

Residents are advised to stay indoors and ensure that windows and doors remain closed to stay safe during these weather conditions.

**About the Southwest Monsoon**

The Southwest Monsoon is a seasonal wind shift bringing heavy rainfall to South Asia, particularly India, from June to September. This monsoon period is characterized by a reversed wind pattern, with winds blowing from land to sea and vice versa, carrying moisture that results in significant rainfall.

Stay tuned for further updates and take necessary precautions to stay safe in the coming days.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/bengaluru-weather-update-for-october-8

Exit mobile version