Sandra Thomas runs for president of producers association; wears 'purdah' to file nomination
Kochi, Jul 26 (PTI): Noted woman producer Sandra Thomas on Saturday filed her nomination to contest for the post of president in the Kerala Film Producers' Association (KFPA).
Thomas, who arrived wearing a 'purdah' at the KFPA office here, told reporters she was contesting for the post of president as changes are required in the association, which has been continuing as "a monopoly" of a few individuals.
She said that she decided to wear a 'purdah' to the office of the KFPA for filing her nomination as she felt it was the most appropriate attire in view of her past experience with those in the organisation.
"It is also a mark of protest against the fact that the four persons against whom I lodged a complaint and who have been named in a chargesheet submitted in court by the police, are still continuing as office bearers of the organisation and are contesting for the executive committee posts," she claimed.
She also alleged that the association was not a safe place for women and the 'purdah' was the best attire to wear to the KFPA.
Thomas alleged that those at the helm of affairs at the association were not fit to lead it as they were only concerned with using the KFPA for their personal gains and not for the benefit of its members.
She said that if she wins, she will ensure that all those producers, in the association, who have not got a chance to make a movie till now, get the opportunity to do so.
Thomas said if changes occur in the producers association, it will indirectly bring a change to the entire film industry.
Thomas was expelled from the KFPA in November last year on charges of breaching organisational discipline and norms, but the association's decision was put on hold by an Ernakulam court in December 2024.
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Indian Defence forces committed to adapting to changing environment: CDS General Chauhan
Hyderabad (PTI): Asserting that war and warfare is at the cusp of a major revolution, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan on Saturday said the Indian Defence forces are committed to adapting to changing environment and imbibing reforms to remain ready and relevant.
Addressing the Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) of 216 Course held at the Air Force Academy at Dundigal near here, General Chauhan said India's strength rests on robust institutions, democratic stability, and unwavering professionalism of our Armed Forces.
He said the intensity of operations may have ebbed, but Operation Sindoor continues.
"You (new officers) also join the Air Force at a moment when a new normal has firmly taken shape. An era defined by a high degree of operational preparedness, 24-7, 365 days. The intensity of operations may have ebbed, but Operation Sindhur continues," he said.
He further said the newly trained officers are entering the Indian Air Force during a phase of deep transformation of the Indian Armed Forces.
Integrated structures, joint operations, and national pursuit of Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence are shaping the future of India's military strength, he said.
"Your journey ahead will be accordingly guided by Jai, the first word of Jai Hind, that's victory. 'J' stands for jointness, fighting as one nation, one force. 'A' stands for Atmanirbhar Bharat, trusted platforms and systems made not just for India but for the world. And finally, 'I' for innovation, daring to think ahead and to be ahead of the curve," he explained.
General Chauhan further said battles in the older domains will always remain contested, often brutal. But in the new domains, they will be smart, swift, and shaped by intellect, innovation, and initiative. The force that masters new frontiers is more likely to prevail in future conflicts.
