Top News

. Overseas Citizen of India cards were issued to over 200,000 applicants thus far.

. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh affirmed that the security and welfare of NRIs is a top priority of the country's diplomatic missions.

. Government to announce the introduction of an India Development Fund. The fund will channel contributions from NRIs towards philanthropic activities.

. India will launch a 24/7 toll free helpline (1800 11 3090) where NRI Overseas workers can voice their concerns on exploitation or neglect from anywhere in the world.

. Tata Motors launch its Rs 1 lac (US$ 2,500) Car named Tata Nano. It meets all the safety and environment norms and can carry 5 persons.

. A tsunami museum, the first of its kind in India, has been opened at Alappad village in Kerala's Kollam district.

. Air India Express will soon start daily services between Doha and Kerala.

. An ancient city excavated on Kerala's Malabar Coast had trade links with many key centres around the world as far back as 500 BC.

. Kerala's rubber growers may encounter some problems in the coming months with the country's import of natural rubber going up.

. The UAE will keep the dirham's 30-year link to the dollar after completing a review of its currency regime, said it's central bank Governor.

. Job-seekers who wish to come to the UAE to look for employment opportunities can opt for a 'Mission Visa', instead of a visit visa. UAE Ministry of Labour will grant short term work permits of a total period of six months starting from January 2

. The surge in gold prices is impacting the sales of Kerala jewellers even as the wedding season is around for the state.

. The way has been cleared for the Sabarimala railway link to the base of the hilltop Sabarimala shrine in Kerala.