&w=3840&q=100)
Stalin renames govt hostels as 'social justice' for harmony among students
He said the change aligns with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government's core principles. 'There won't be any sort of discrimination, including gender or caste, under the DMK rule,' he said, adding that the decision is driven by the principle of social justice and inclusion, as quoted by PTI.
'These reforms are not merely symbolic. They are part of our mission to build a future Tamil society rooted in equality, unity, and social justice,' Stalin said, as quoted by The Times of India.
Hostels managed by various departments across the state — including the Adi Dravidar and Tribal Welfare Department and the Backward Classes and Minority Welfare Department — will adopt the new name. As of now, there are 2,739 government hostels in Tamil Nadu, housing nearly 1.8 lakh students.
The Chief Minister also referred to a decision earlier this year to remove the word 'colony' from government records, as it is often associated with caste-based discrimination. 'Since it has become a symbol of dominance, a symbol of untouchability and a slang word, steps will be taken to remove this word from government documents and public domain,' Stalin said.
Reiterating a previous appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Stalin urged the Centre to consider amending certain SC/ST community names that end with 'N' or 'A' to 'R', stating that such a change would help restore dignity, reported PTI.
He also said that a government order was issued on June 25 by the School Education Department, outlining measures to reduce caste and communal tensions in schools and foster a spirit of harmony among students.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the work of a commission led by retired Justice K Chandru, which was set up to study caste-based conflict in educational institutions. Among its key recommendations was the removal of caste-based prefixes and suffixes from school names — a suggestion that the state government has accepted, the report mentioned.
'These reforms are not merely symbolic. They are part of our mission to build a future Tamil society rooted in equality, unity, and social justice.'

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Flag-hoisting at Ram temple likely in Nov; PM Modi may attend as chief guest
Live Events (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel A flag-hoisting ceremony is set to take place at the Ram temple in Ayodhya in November with thousands of special guests expected to attend and Prime Minister Narendra Modi likely to be the chief official of the temple trust, speaking on the condition of anonymity, told PTI on Monday that the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust has shortlisted two dates in November for this significant event. Preparations for the ceremony are gaining momentum."Prime Minister Narendra Modi might be present as the chief guest on this auspicious occasion," the official to sources within the temple, the Ram flag will be hoisted atop the 161-foot-high spire of the temple. In addition, flags will also be hoisted on the spires of all other temples within the complex, marking a major milestone towards the completion of the temple's Mishra, a trustee of the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra told PTI, "The final programme is still being prepared. As soon as it is ready, it will be shared."Temple sources further told PTI that the flag-hoisting ceremony is expected to be as grand as the consecration of Lord Ram. The trust is preparing an extensive guest list that includes saints, religious leaders, distinguished dignitaries and devotees from across India and abroad. The trust estimates that thousands of guests will witness this second historic occasion following the consecration ceremony of the deity Ram Lalla.A senior official from the Ayodhya administration confirmed that preparations are in full swing to welcome the temple trust and the administrative machinery have started booking rooms in hotels, while arrangements are also being made in major dharamshalas and guest houses across the city, the official to temple sources, astrologers are determining the most auspicious time for the ceremony in November. Discussions are underway to finalise one of the two proposed dates -- November 16 or November flag will be hoisted on the temple spire amid Vedic chants, music and special worship rituals. Several other rituals will also be part of the programme.A Ram Katha may be organised, and renowned musicians and artists from across the country are expected to perform, further enhancing the grandeur of the ceremony.


Economic Times
an hour ago
- Economic Times
Tariff news: Chaos incoming? Stocks crash, allies rattled, and Trump clueless — clock ticks on 48-hour countdown
Synopsis Trump Tariff Deadline is shaking up global markets as the July 9 cutoff forces countries to finalize trade deals or face higher tariffs. President Donald Trump has warned nations, including BRICS countries, of steep tariffs unless they act fast. Only the UK and Vietnam have struck preliminary agreements so far, but even those include high rates. With investors on edge and many economies at risk, the next 48 hours could define U.S. trade policy. PTI Trump's July 9 tariff deadline forces nations to act fast or face steep trade penalties. With only two countries securing deals, tensions rise globally as Trump's aggressive trade policy pushes markets, partners, and economies into uncertain, high-stakes negotiations. Trump Tariff Deadline Sparks Global Anxiety as U.S. Pushes Hard on Trade Deals- President Donald Trump is again raising pressure on America's foreign trading partners as the July 9 tariff deadline nears, with major economic and diplomatic stakes riding on how countries respond. After a 90-day pause on sweeping tariffs announced in April, Trump's administration is now preparing to send formal tariff notifications to dozens of countries—potentially reshaping global trade relations overnight. With only Britain and Vietnam having reached preliminary trade agreements, most other countries could soon face higher U.S. tariffs, including a flat 10% rate or more. Some levies may climb as high as 46%, unless last-minute deals are struck. However, there are hints that the actual tariff implementation could be delayed until August 1. President Donald Trump's 'Liberation Day' tariff pause—announced 90 days ago—is officially expiring on Tuesday, July 9. This pause was intended to give trading partners time to negotiate better deals or face new tariffs as high as 70% on imports, especially targeting BRICS nations like China, India, and Brazil. Although official tariff letters have reportedly been sent to these countries, the White House has now delayed the implementation until August 1, leaving a few more weeks for diplomatic wrangling. Despite the delay, uncertainty is flooding the markets. So far, only the United Kingdom and Vietnam have reached handshake trade deals, allowing them to avoid the full brunt of the tariffs. But details are scarce, and even those countries still face tariffs—10% for the UK, and 20% for Vietnam, down from the initially threatened 46%. Trump's strategy appears to be driving urgency. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Monday, 'We've had a lot of people change their tune... my mailbox was full last night with new proposals.' Several trade announcements are expected in the next 48 hours. YChina has struck a limited trade deal with the U.S., helping it sidestep the worst of the looming tariff hikes. But unlike the UK and Vietnam, which received clear terms (10% and 20% tariffs respectively), China's deal remains murky in detail. Framework agreement : China and the U.S. reached a partial agreement that reportedly avoids the full brunt of Trump's 70% tariff threat. This was the result of quiet negotiations in Geneva and London. : China and the U.S. reached a partial agreement that reportedly avoids the full brunt of Trump's 70% tariff threat. This was the result of quiet negotiations in Geneva and London. Strategic concessions : China agreed to resume key exports—especially rare earth minerals and magnets. In return, the U.S. allowed the export of certain chip-design software, jet engines, and ethane to China. : China agreed to resume key exports—especially rare earth minerals and magnets. In return, the U.S. allowed the export of certain chip-design software, jet engines, and ethane to China. Tariff reduction: Tariffs on Chinese imports were cut from highs near 145% to 30%, while China reportedly dropped its retaliatory tariffs to 10% on select U.S. goods. Exact scope : Unlike the UK or Vietnam deals, China's agreement does not outline which products are covered or which sectors benefit most. : Unlike the UK or Vietnam deals, China's agreement does not outline which products are covered or which sectors benefit most. Implementation timeline : China says rare earth shipments have resumed, but broader trade enforcement is still unfolding. : China says rare earth shipments have resumed, but broader trade enforcement is still unfolding. Stability concerns: Officials on both sides describe the agreement as a "delicate truce"—more of a stopgap than a long-term fix. While the July 9 deadline looms, Trump officials have sent mixed signals. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said Sunday, 'Tariffs go into effect Aug. 1. But the president is setting the rates, and the deals, right now.' That could mean an additional three-week cushion for negotiators. Still, on July 7 at noon ET, the U.S. began sending out letters outlining the tariff rates to foreign governments. According to Bessent, 'It's not an ultimatum… It's a welcome letter with the tariff rate—unless you want to come back and renegotiate.' Despite this softer tone, investors aren't reassured. On Monday, stocks dipped as the Dow fell 158 points, the S&P 500 dropped 0.4%, and the Nasdaq Composite slid 0.6%. The market is reacting to uncertainty over whether Trump will follow through with severe tariffs or back down again. Countries without agreements are on thin ice. The president has even threatened an additional 10% tariff on BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—accusing them of 'anti-American policies.' Nations like South Korea, Malaysia, Switzerland, and Lesotho have reportedly tried to strike deals, but most negotiations remain incomplete. For big economies like the EU and Japan, major sticking points remain. Both are resisting pressure to open their markets to U.S. agriculture, and worry about tariffs on automobiles, steel, and pharmaceuticals. Even those with deals in place aren't out of the woods. Trump's team has signaled that new sector-specific tariffs—possibly targeting electronics, pharmaceuticals, and automotive goods—could follow, regardless of overall deals. While Trump's advisers claim that tariffs are creating leverage, economic data tells a mixed story. According to S&P Global Market Intelligence, U.S. factory construction has declined since Trump took office. Employment in manufacturing has also dropped in recent months—even though overall job numbers remain strong due to growth in sectors like health care. Import-heavy industries like footwear, which rely on countries like Vietnam, warn that the 20% tariff could drive up prices for American consumers. Business groups say that constant uncertainty is discouraging investment, slowing hiring, and undermining long-term planning. Critics argue that while tariffs might extract short-term concessions, they are disrupting supply chains and causing broader market unease. Even allies like Canada only shifted positions—such as dropping a digital services tax—after being directly threatened by Trump. As the July 9 Trump tariff deadline approaches, global markets are on edge. With the possibility of massive tariff hikes looming, investors are bracing for impact—and early signs of volatility are already showing up in U.S. and global stock performance.U.S. markets opened in the red on Monday, signaling investor jitters. Here's how major indices are performing: S&P 500 : Down around 0.3% : Down around Dow Jones : Dropped 96 points (~0.2%) : Dropped (~0.2%) Nasdaq: Fell nearly 0.5%, led by tech and consumer discretionary stocks Globally, Asian and European markets also turned lower, as fears of trade disruptions spooked investors. The risk-off mood sent safe-haven assets like U.S. Treasuries higher, while the U.S. dollar gained far, tech stocks and global manufacturers have taken the biggest hit. Companies with heavy exposure to international supply chains—like Apple, Tesla, and Caterpillar—saw pre-market weakness. In the ETF space: SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (SPY) traded around $623.20 , down slightly from the previous close. traded around , down slightly from the previous close. Volume spiked over 9 million early in the session, suggesting high investor activity and concern. Investors are watching to see if defensive sectors like utilities and healthcare hold up better in the face of trade turmoil. This wouldn't be the first time tariffs spooked markets. Back in April 2025, when Trump first unveiled his aggressive tariff plan, stocks tanked: S&P 500 lost 10% in a single week (April 2–9) in a single week (April 2–9) Volatility surged, and global indices tumbled before rebounding when Trump announced the temporary pause Analysts now worry that if the July 9 deadline passes without new deals, or if countries retaliate, the market could face another sharp correction—especially if tariffs begin hitting in August. That's a real risk. While some countries have yielded under pressure, others are preparing retaliation. The European Union, for example, has drawn up packages of tariffs on U.S. exports it may impose if hit by new levies. The Trump administration is also facing legal challenges at home. U.S. courts are reviewing the legality of the April global tariff package. If struck down, officials say they'll pivot to other legal justifications to enforce tariffs. Economists say deals could change fast. John Raines of S&P Global noted that Trump has a history of reversing tariffs quickly when markets react badly or if talks progress. 'Tariffs may last only days or weeks,' he wrote. Still, with so many countries in limbo and negotiations stretched thin, confusion reigns. Wendy Cutler, a former U.S. trade negotiator, noted, 'People are just extremely stretched.' In the next 48 hours, expect a flurry of announcements. Treasury Secretary Bessent says major deals are still possible, and that even China may come to the table in coming weeks. 'I think there are things for us to do together if the Chinese want to do it,' he told CNBC. But questions remain. Is Trump more interested in securing deals or maintaining pressure with high tariffs? His public statements suggest the latter. On July 4, speaking on Air Force One, he said, 'I've been looking at it for many years. Frankly, I think it's ridiculous that countries were able to get away with so much.' With the August 1 implementation date now in play, time is running out. The next few weeks may decide whether Trump's tariff strategy results in a rebalanced playing field—or sets off another round of global economic friction. Q1: What is Trump's tariff deadline and how does it impact global trade? Trump's tariff deadline is July 9, pressuring countries to make trade deals or face higher U.S. tariffs. Q2: Which countries have trade deals with Trump to avoid higher tariffs? So far, only the UK and Vietnam have made early trade deals with Trump's administration to avoid steeper tariffs.


News18
2 hours ago
- News18
Bihar Police Identify Shooter In Gopal Khemka Murder Case, Official Announcement Soon: Sources
Last Updated: Patna Police have arrested Umesh, the shooter in the Gopal Khemka case. Khemka, linked to the BJP, was shot dead on July 4. Seven people have been detained. In a significant development, the Patna Police have arrested the shooter involved in the Gopal Khemka case, according to top police sources. The shooter has been identified as Umesh, a resident of the Patna City area. While official confirmation is still pending, sources indicate that the police may make an official announcement regarding the arrest soon. So far, a total of seven people have been picked up by the STF (Special Task Force), and interrogation in the case is ongoing. According to sources, three accused allegedly gathered near a tea stall in Patna's Daldali area before carrying out the crime in the Gopal Khemka case. After having tea, one of the accused went to Khemka's residence. Khemka, who was reportedly associated with the Bharatiya Janata Party, was shot dead by an unidentified armed assailant outside his house in Gandhi Maidan locality at 11.40 pm on July 4 as he was about to alight from his car. Khemka's last rites were performed at Gulbi Ghat in Patna on July 6, where his body was cremated amidst a large gathering of businessmen and industrialists who paid their respects. A CCTV video of the incident showing the moment when Gopal Khemka was shot dead has also surfaced. 'A delegation met me. I have assured them of appropriate security as per norms. Some of them have also asked for arms licences, which in any case is given to businessmen," Meena told news agency PTI. Bihar Chamber of Commerce and Industries (BCCI) Vice-President Ashish Shankar alleged that though Khemka was shot dead near Gandhi Maidan police station, it took several hours for the police to reach the spot. 'It's shocking. It reminds us of the days of Jungle Raj. The BCCI and BIA will soon sit together and chalk out a detailed plan concerning security aspects of businessmen and industrialists, which will be discussed with the authorities concerned in the government," Shankar told PTI on Sunday. First Published: July 07, 2025, 20:35 IST