Published Jun 19, 2025 | 7:44 PM ⚊ Updated Jun 19, 2025 | 7:44 PM
Kozhikode aims for record-breaking anti-drug pledge on international anti-drug day (Wikimedia Commons)
Synopsis: The Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights has launched Radio Nellikka, a 24×7 online radio station dedicated to child rights and wellbeing. To mark 75 years since the Constitution’s enactment, the Kerala Legislative Assembly has completed the first Malayalam translation of Constituent Assembly debates
Kozhikode is set to script history by bringing together 20 lakh people for an anti-drug pledge on June 26, observed as International Anti-Drug Day. The initiative, titled Two Million Pledge, is being spearheaded by the Kozhikode District Panchayat as part of its Laharimukta (Anti-Drug) Kozhikode campaign aimed at raising public awareness and resistance against drug abuse.
The public pledge will be held at 11:30 am across the district, with the participation of schools, government offices, clubs, voluntary groups, and the general public.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan lauded the initiative during a press meet in Thiruvananthapuram, held to announce the fifth phase of the state’s anti-drug drive.
He praised local self-government bodies and citizens’ groups for their active role in combating the drug menace through sustained, collective efforts. The government hopes this mass pledge will reinforce Kerala’s fight against narcotics.
Radio Nellikka
In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights has launched Radio Nellikka, an internet radio platform dedicated to children.
Aimed at promoting child rights awareness and addressing rising concerns like mental health issues, cyber addiction, and drug abuse among children, the radio promises round-the-clock streaming accessible globally.
Initially airing four hours of curated content from Monday to Friday, programmes like Right Turn, Immini Balya Karyam, Akashadoot, and Uncle Boss will engage children, parents, and teachers alike.
The Commission targets to reach 25 lakh families through 15,397 schools, 29,202 Balasabhas, 33,120 Anganwadis, 464 child care homes, and resident associations.
Listeners can tune in via the Radio Nellikka app, website, car Bluetooth, or AUX.
Children and parents are encouraged to share stories and experiences through WhatsApp, email, and live calls, making it a truly participative platform for young voices via email (radionellikka@gmail.com) or WhatsApp (9993338602).
In a historic first, the Kerala Legislative Assembly has completed the Malayalam translation of the first volume of the Constituent Assembly proceedings, marking the 75th anniversary of the Constitution’s enactment. Speaker A N Shamseer called it a proud moment, noting that Kerala’s Assembly continues to be a model for legislatures nationwide.
The translation covers the first 21 days of debates from December 9, 1946, to May 2, 1947 — capturing the vision and deliberations of India’s constitutional architects. Designed as an accessible reference for citizens, public servants, and researchers, the initiative aims to bridge language barriers and pass constitutional values to future generations.
The original Constituent Assembly report, spanning 6377 pages in 12 volumes, was published in English and Hindi in 1950. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will officially release the Malayalam translation on June 24 at the Legislative Assembly complex in Thiruvananthapuram.
Shaikh Hassan Khan, a mountaineer from Kerala who was stranded on Alaska’s Mount Denali, has been found safe along with his Tamil Nadu-based climbing partner, officials confirmed.
The duo, caught in a snowstorm near Camp V, are now descending on their own with ranger support. The update was shared by the Alaska Governor’s office with India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
Earlier, Khan had alerted friends via satellite phone, prompting urgent appeals from Congress MP Shashi Tharoor and Kerala Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal for MEA intervention. Khan, a finance department officer, was on an expedition named ‘Operation Sindoor’ to promote peace and honour Indian armed forces.
Shaikh Hassan Khan
Veteran director Sibi Malayil, one of Malayalam cinema’s most cherished filmmakers, is celebrating 40 years in the industry. His debut film Mutharamkunnu P O was released on June 21, 1985
To commemorate the milestone, a grand event will be held in Kochi on June 21, attended by prominent figures including Mohanlal, Suresh Gopi, Dileep, and screen legends like Sreenivasan, Jagadish, and Mukesh. The celebration is being organised by his protégés—directors Sundardas, Jose Thomas, and Thomas Sebastian.
Reflecting on his career, Sibi Malayil called it a blessed journey, highlighting films like Thaniavarthanam, Kireedam, Akashadoothu, and Bharatham among his most cherished works.
Sibi Malayil
