After a two-year hiatus, Kovalam beach is set to enhance New Year's celebrations with various festivities. The police have issued strict guidelines for visitors to leave the beach by 12:30 AM, and extensive security measures, including CCTV surveillance and additional cameras, are in place. Around 400 police officers will patrol the area, and a special control room has been established for real-time information sharing. The Excise Department is vigilant to prevent drug use, and DJ party organizers have been given strict instructions.

A stray dog has been trapped in a 50-foot deep well in Thiruvananthapuram for a week. Despite locals' efforts to feed and rescue the dog, the fire brigade has refused to intervene, citing safety concerns. The incident has drawn criticism towards the fire brigade, while locals, including Krishnakumar, continue to provide food to the dog using a rope. The well, located on private property, has been a point of contention as locals have previously requested it to be covered for safety.

Shanu Varghese, a 26-year-old woman from Thiruvananthapuram, who has been bedridden for 12 years following a severe accident, received an electric wheelchair from an anonymous couple from Pathanamthitta. The couple, moved by Shanu's story, provided the wheelchair worth around 60,000 INR to help her pursue her dreams. Shanu, who earns through crocheting, aspires to learn graphic designing and support her family. The article highlights the community support and assistance Shanu received after her story was featured on Asianet News Online.

Students at Varkala Vettur Government Higher Secondary School organized a biryani challenge to raise funds for the medical treatment of a four-year-old boy suffering from eye cancer. The event, supported by teachers, locals, and parents, exceeded expectations by selling over 2200 biryani packets, raising significant funds. The initiative was led by the school's NSS unit, with additional sponsorships contributing to the cause. The proceeds will be handed over for the child's treatment at Apollo Hospital in Chennai.

A complaint has been raised alleging that organs were donated to a private hospital in Thiruvananthapuram in violation of government norms, which mandate that at least one organ from a brain-dead donor in a private hospital should be given to a government hospital patient. The controversy arose when the liver of a brain-dead patient was allocated to two patients in the same private hospital. Authorities explained that the decision was made due to the critical condition of the recipients and the lack of suitable recipients in other hospitals. The KNOS and State Health Department's guidelines and the role of Dr. Noble Gracious in the allocation process were highlighted.

Madhav Vivek, a one-and-a-half-year-old from Thiruvananthapuram, has been recognized by the India Book of Records for identifying 201 items, including celebrations, vehicles, animals, body parts, flowers, and English alphabets. His parents, Vivek and Sreerama, both educators, noticed his keen interest in books and pictures from a young age and supported his learning. Madhav's achievement has brought pride to his family and community.

A poor family in Venganoor, Thiruvananthapuram, struggling with poverty and illness, has received significant community aid. They have been provided with a ration card and water connection, and steps are being taken to provide electricity. The Philokalia Foundation is set to build them a new house, with construction expected to start soon. The Venganoor Grama Panchayat is assisting with necessary documentation, including Aadhaar cards, to ensure they receive all welfare benefits. The community's response has brought immense relief and joy to the family.

A disabled woman named J. Chithra, who had learned to type using two fingers on each hand, was unable to take a PSC exam due to arriving five minutes late because of traffic. Despite her pleas, the exam authorities did not allow her to enter the exam center. Chithra, a computer science engineering graduate, had previously been included in the LDC rank list but was not selected due to her typing skills. The incident highlights the challenges faced by disabled individuals and the inflexibility of exam authorities.

Arya Prakash, a 21-year-old from Kannur, Kerala, has overcome her congenital blindness to pursue her passion for music. Encouraged by her parents, Arya learned to sing by listening to songs on the radio and YouTube. Her talent was recognized by magician Gopinath Muthukad, who shared her singing video on social media, leading to widespread acclaim. Arya, currently an M.A. Hindi student at Kalady University, has performed at various events, including an international online talent show. She aspires to become a playback singer and meet her favorite artist, K.S. Chithra. Arya's story is a testament to her resilience and the unwavering support of her parents.

Hassan Imam, a 25-year-old from Bihar, is undertaking a Bharat Yatra in a wheelchair from Kanyakumari to Siachen Glacier to promote accessibility for the differently-abled in public spaces. Despite numerous judicial and governmental initiatives, accessibility remains largely unimplemented. Hassan's journey aims to raise public awareness and drive change. His vehicle, a battery-operated wheelchair-scooter hybrid, was innovated by students from Madras IIT. Hassan emphasizes the necessity of ramps in public places for the differently-abled, pregnant women, and the elderly. He also plans to expand the Accessible India Campaign beyond India after his journey.

The article details the operational methods of the '112' Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) in Thiruvananthapuram, India. It explains how the public can access police services via a toll-free number, text messages, or the '112 India' mobile application. The system is managed by the State Police Headquarters and involves around 60 police officers handling approximately 5,000 calls daily. The article also highlights the integration of various emergency services and the challenges posed by misuse of the service.

A Great Dane named Bash was abandoned and left to starve by its owner in Thiruvananthapuram, India. The dog was found tied to an electric post, unable to move or find food. Local youths informed Sherif, a resident, who rescued the dog and provided it with medical care and nourishment. Despite efforts to locate the original owner through social media, Bash was eventually adopted by Sherif and became a beloved family pet. The community's support and Sherif's dedication helped Bash recover and thrive.

A 49-year-old man named Binu from Thiruvananthapuram has taken it upon himself to clean the Vellayani Lake using a small boat he built during the COVID-19 lockdown. Despite initial setbacks, Binu has successfully removed around 400 kilograms of waste from the lake over two and a half months. He receives support from his family but lacks the expected backing from local authorities. Binu's efforts highlight the importance of maintaining the lake's cleanliness, as it supplies clean water to five panchayats.

Daya Bai, an 81-year-old social activist, is on an indefinite hunger strike demanding better medical facilities and support for Endosulfan victims in Kasargod, Kerala. She accuses the Kerala government of deliberately neglecting the victims and failing to provide promised medical camps since 2017. Despite her prolonged protest, the government has not taken any action. Former Health Minister KK Shailaja cited financial constraints as a reason for the lack of support. Daya Bai's activism has a long history, including significant contributions to tribal communities in Madhya Pradesh.

In Kerala, 282 nurses from the 108 Ambulance Service are actively involved in COVID-19 response efforts, facing both positive and negative experiences. Despite the challenges, including social distancing from their families and inadequate PPE in some districts, they continue their work with dedication. The article highlights their struggles, the support they receive, and their commitment to public health, dedicating their efforts to the memory of their colleague, Dona Varghese.

Srinath S K, a 29-year-old from Thiruvananthapuram, has been creating cement sculptures and 3D mural paintings using self-taught skills since 2012. Initially learning the basics from his grandfather, Somasekharan Nair, Srinath transitioned from paper sculptures to cement works by 2015, making it his profession. Despite initial family opposition, he now receives full support, especially from his brother Harinath. Srinath's work includes custom 3D murals for clients, and he continues to innovate in his art.

Gopinathan and his wife Santha from Thiruvananthapuram have gained attention for creating strong coir from old sarees and plastic sacks. They have been using this homemade coir for all household needs for the past 15 years, eliminating the need to purchase coir from outside. Gopinathan, who started this innovative recycling method after falling ill, claims the coir is so strong that he offers a reward to anyone who can break it. The couple continues to experiment with new methods, demonstrating that age is no barrier to innovation.

Around 80 secondary palliative care patients and their companions from the Kallara Social Health Centre and Palode Family Health Centre participated in a joyful excursion called 'Sneha Yatra' organized by the Vamanapuram Block Panchayat. The group, including stroke victims, individuals with spinal and neck injuries, and children with congenital disabilities, enjoyed a day out on the bus, visiting places like Veli, Vettucaud, and Shanghumugham. The trip included boat rides and sightseeing, providing a temporary respite from their ailments. The event was flagged off by D.K. Murali MLA, and health department staff, including Dr. Ajith and Dr. Sajikumar, supervised the patients' health throughout the day.

Harshan, a 40-year-old artist from Thiruvananthapuram, has created over 500 sand paintings, starting his journey nine years ago at Kovalam beach. Encouraged by friends and supported by his wife Sujitha Lakshmi, Harshan began drawing in sand, initially creating a portrait of his wife. His works include portraits of notable figures like Prithviraj, Ayyankali, Sree Narayana Guru, and Indrans. Harshan's unique art has garnered attention and orders through social media, providing him with a source of income. He now operates from a rented room near Kovalam Lighthouse Beach, with a dream to personally present his portrait of Prithviraj to the actor.

Suma, a 33-year-old woman from Thiruvananthapuram, paralyzed below the waist due to polio, has taken to selling fish from her wheelchair to support her family. Despite her physical limitations and the financial struggles of her household, she remains determined and resilient. Her husband Shankar's income is insufficient, prompting Suma to start this business. She faces challenges such as finding someone to drive her vehicle and managing with limited financial resources, but she continues to persevere.

Rahsana, a student from Thiruvananthapuram, earned the India Book of Records Award for creating leaf art of 22 renowned Indian women within 24 hours. Her work, which includes portraits of figures like Indira Gandhi and Mary Kom, was developed during the COVID-19 lockdown. Rahsana's artistic journey, supported by her college community, has also garnered attention from the Asia Book of Records. She emphasizes the importance of financial independence for women and continues to create commissioned leaf art.

Thiruvananthapuram is hosting a grand Christmas and New Year carnival, highlighted by a giant 50-foot Santa Claus in Varkala. The Santa Claus, which took 19 days to construct using bamboo and screw pine, is the centerpiece of the celebrations organized by a group of youngsters under the leadership of the Sree Sankara Narayana Cultural Center. The event, inspired by the Cochin Carnival, is free to enter and includes cultural programs, attracting visitors from various places. The display of Santa Claus will be available until January 1, allowing for New Year celebrations as well.

Ponmudi, a tourist center in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, has reopened after four months following a landslide closure. The area is experiencing a good amount of visitors, especially during holidays, despite ongoing road renovation work from Kallar to Hilltop. The road conditions are still partially incomplete, with some areas having scattered metal pieces and unfinished concrete work, posing risks to travelers. KSRTC has announced bus service schedules to Ponmudi, and travelers are advised to follow the instructions of eco-tourism guides and authorities during their visit.

A complaint has been filed against Thiruvananthapuram Medical College for allegedly bypassing government directives and making an unauthorized appointment to the post of organ transplant coordinator. The complaint, lodged by Dr. Ganapathi from Kollam Shakthikulangara, claims that the appointment was made without following the proper procedures, which require finding suitable candidates through the Employment Exchange or conducting interviews if such candidates are not available. The controversy surrounds the appointment of an individual who allegedly secured a position in the Nephrology department through unauthorized means. There are demands for the current notification to be canceled and for the appointment to be made through the Employment Exchange.

Dakshinamurthy Krishnakumar, a 42-year-old from Mysore, embarked on a spiritual journey across India with his 73-year-old mother, Choodarathnamma, on a Bajaj Chetak scooter. The journey, which began in August, aims to visit various pilgrimage sites, including those in Thiruvananthapuram. Krishnakumar quit his job to fulfill his mother's wish to visit these places, a desire she couldn't pursue due to household responsibilities. Anand Mahindra gifted them a car for their travels, highlighting the positive reception of their journey.

The Kerala State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (KSOTTO) has been managing an organ donation registry, which is still controlled by a private agency based in Chennai despite the government's decision to handle it through the National Informatics Centre. Concerns have been raised due to the private agency's continued control over the registry containing information of individuals willing to donate organs post-mortem and those awaiting transplants. The government aims to eliminate commercial interests in organ donation and ensure transparency and efficiency through a government-controlled online registry. Dr. Noble Gracious, Executive Director of KSOTTO, assured that the new website, which was delayed, will be launched without further delay.

Manju, a tenth-grade student from Trivandrum, Kerala, studies by a kerosene lamp due to the lack of electricity in her home. Her father, Thangappan, passed away four years ago, leaving the family with only a widow's pension as income. Her mother, Rathnamma, is bedridden following a stroke. The family struggles to pay daily expenses and the outstanding electricity bill, which led to the disconnection of their power supply by KSEB. Despite these challenges, Manju remains determined to become a teacher, relying on a borrowed mobile phone for online classes and charging it at a neighbor's house.