YSRCs multiple capitals decision foolish: Nara Lokesh

GUNTUR: Establishing multiple cities as capitals is one of the most foolish decisions of the YSRC government, TDP general secretary Nara Lokesh said in an interview with TNIE. Exuding confidence that he will win the Mangalagiri Assembly seat, the former IT minister said he implemented 29 welfare and development schemes for the people of the constituency in the past four years and 11 months. On lessons learnt after the 2019 defeat, Lokesh said the TDP began aggressively countering YSRCs false propaganda. Stating that the ruling party has failed to maintain a balance between welfare and development, he assured that the TDP will provide 20 lakh jobs to the youth, which will in turn improve the economy of the State by two-and-a-half times. With only a few weeks left for the elections, how is your election campaign in Mangalagiri? I covered 3,132 km as part of my Yuva Galam Padayatra across the State to know the peoples problems. Now, I am fully concentrated on my own Assembly constituency to reach out to the people. I am going on a Statewide tour next week to interact with the youth. Since the inception of Mangalagiri constituency, the TDP won the seat in 1983 and 1985 only. What made you choose Mangalagiri to contest in the first place? I am a third generation politician. I did not want to go for a safe seat. I always believe that one should take a tough seat, fight hard and win to prove oneself. I failed in my first attempt as I did not have enough time and I was not able to win the trust of people of Mangalagiri in 2019. Since the day I lost, Ive been working hard and serving the people of Mangalagiri to win their trust for the past four-years-and-11-months. I am confident that they elect me with a huge majority this time. After the 2019 defeat, what changes did you make in your election strategy? We are now able to aggressively counter the false propaganda unleashed by the ruling dispensation against us. They are very good at false propaganda. Well that is something probably we need to learn from them. How to tell a lie and convince people so effectively. When former minister YS Vivenkananda Reddy was assassinated, the TDP was blamed for it. When the CBI began inquiry, it is Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddys own family member YS Avinash Reddy, who is again contesting from Kadapa as an MP, was named in the chargesheet. Jagan has destroyed the State economically. There are no employment opportunities. Youth have become disillusioned and they are not able to focus on things. If you observe, the ganja menace has gone up substantially. There is a need to get them out of its influence, and provide a good ecosystem to the youth of Andhra Pradesh, reintegrate back and they will definitely get jobs and thats what we are aiming to do now. The YSRC has fielded Murugudu Lavanya, who hails from the weaver community, against you. How confident are you to win against the YSRC candidate? I have served all the sections of people in Mangalagiri without any discrimination. In the last four years, I have implemented 29 welfare and development schemes in the constituency with my own funds. I believe that I have reached out to the people, cutting across the caste and religious lines. The people will certainly give their massive mandate to me this time. What about the influence of local factor in the election? At the end of the day, it is a matter of fact that I was not born here. I was born and brought up in Hyderabad. Post bifurcation of the State, I shifted to Mangalagiri. I have been living here for the last eight years. My vote and my entire familys votes are registered here. So, Im as much local as everyone else in the constituency know. Actually, I believe that people will observe who has served them not local or local. What are the major issues of the people you observed at the ground level during your Yuva Galam Padayatra? The peoples answer to my question what are you expecting from the government? is Provide us jobs. Do whatever it takes to give us jobs. So, if you look at the promises we have given, our first promise in the manifesto is to create 20 lakh jobs, both in the private and public sector. Number two is, lack of basic infrastructure in every constituency. The YSRC government has completely neglected drinking water, roads and drainage system. When I was the Panchayat Raj and Rural Development Minister, CC roads were laid to a length of 25,000 km across the State. We will create better infrastructure everywhere to improve the quality of living. Third is the prevalence of ganja. It has destroyed families. Now, Andhra Pradesh has become the net exporter of ganja to other States. If ganja is found in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and other States, it has come from Andhra Pradesh. We will put an end to ganja menace in the first 100 days of our government. These are the three major issues that Ive noticed. You are saying that job creation will be your top priority. If we take the IT sector, many companies are laying off their employees. In this scenario, do you think is it possible to create more jobs in IT sector? IT is one of many sectors. If you look at Andhra Pradesh, it is clearly a large State. Coastal based economy can be promoted in a big way. Each district has a focus area. If you look at Anantapur, automobiles is its focus area, electronics manufacturing in Chittoor, renewable energy and cement in Kurnool, like that. Every district has a focus area and IT is probably focused in Visakhapatnam. So, we believe that we have the ecosystem already in place. A lot of companies got seated in our term and we can create a spin off companies in the entire ecosystem. We will create both blue and white collar jobs. It is not just focused on IT alone. There are huge opportunities in pharma sector in North Andhra. In IT, new jobs are being created through AI. Big Data is again a big sector. If you look at it, we had a specific policy for data centers and thats what we got Adanis for. We signed a project with them, unfortunately, it didnt go forward due to the current government. Thats the project, Im eager to restart, when the government changes. I think such sectors, if we focus on new sectors, we can create more jobs. After accusing YSRC of spending more money on welfare schemes and neglecting development of the State, the TDP has announced Super 6 and promised to double the allocation for the welfare schemes, which are very similar to what are already being implemented by the government. Is it correct? If you closely look at it, you know the difference. The monthly support that we promised to women, is not part of any current scheme. Provision of three free LPG cylinders a year is not part of any existing scheme. We have come up with our own manifesto after seeing the suffering of the people at the grass root level. The first of Super Six is to create 20 lakh jobs. That will enhance the economy by two-and-a-half times. What we are criticising this government is that it is making debts to spend on welfare. That is hurting the people. It is creating an inflation problem. Power charges have increased, taxes have gone up. Everything is going up. It should not be not like that. There should be a balance between welfare and development, and the TDP is known for it. If you look at the Deepam scheme, it was originally introduced by the TDP. Considering the existing financial position of the State, do you think balancing both welfare and development is practically possible? We had the same problem in 1995. In 1995, the State was in a huge debt. But the then Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, with his growth vision and planning was able to turn around the State. We are more than capable of doing it and people have seen it. Is there still any friction among leaders and cadres of TDP, BJP and Jana Sena Party? It is very common that small issues crop up in a family time and again. But, as the head of the family, the father and the mother sit together and resolve the issues. Similarly, all the leaders of three parties will sit and resolve the issues if any. I am not saying every marriage is perfect. In fact, lets put it in the other way, no marriage is perfect. Every marriage has its issues. Again it all depends on how you resolve the issues. Minor issues keep coming, small clashes and differences, but at the end of the day, we resolve these issues and move on. Because our agenda is very clear, and it is to develop the State. If we have to develop the State, it is only possible with the tripartite alliance. In the present political scenario, do you think the vote transfer will occur as successfully as expected? One 100%. We expect 100% vote transfer to avoid split in anti-incumbency vote to ensure the YSRCs defeat in the elections. Because, all the three parties are motivating their cadres explaining to them the importance and making sure even one vote doesnt go outside of the alliance. Unlike in other States, politicians in our State are using inflammatory language in their election speeches and even TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu. What is the need for it? I dont believe that Chandrababu Naidu is using inflammatory language, fundamentally. In fact, if you notice, he is one of the most balanced politicians in the country. He never takes anything for granted. There are certain brand annotations for every leader. For Jagan Mohan Reddy, it has been psycho as his brand annotation. And its because of his erratic behaviour. The three capital proposal is an erratic behaviour. Because you promised only one capital. While you were entering this premises, you saw Praja Vedika that had been destroyed by his government. It was legal, it was legally constructed, and he destroyed it. Because he is not of a stable mind. If you look at his policies, if you look at his behaviour, thats what we are explaining to the people. So, we are not using any inflammatory language during our electioneering to create a rift between castes, regions and religions. Thats not something the TDP is into. With elections just a few weeks away, when can we expect the joint manifesto from the tripartite alliance? Thats something we are working on. All of us are committed to Babus Super Six policy. Thats something and thats related after the discussions with JSP chief Pawan Kalyan. We have come together to discuss it. Subsequently, we had a detailed discussion with the BJP. Thats the cornerstone of our election manifesto and we are going to announce it soon. If TDP comes to power, would you like to serve as IT Minister for the second time, or are you interested in any other ministry? Ill leave it to the tripartite alliance leadership. The alliance leadership has to decide it. Its not for me to comment on that. My job is to serve the people. In power or out of power, we are trained by Mr Naidu to do one thing, serve the people. Even during the Covid-19 pandemic also, we were busy serving the people. That is what we are hardwired to do and we will continue to do. We are going to remain very focused. As Lokesh, Im very focused on serving Mangalagiri people, people of Andhra Pradesh and Telugu people at large. That is the motto of TDP. Watch the full video of the interview on TNIE Videos on YouTube

Jagan Starts 3.0 Campaign With Barbs at TD Chief

Tirupati: Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy on Sunday cautioned voters not to place faith in opposition leader Nara Chandrababu Naidu, as it will be a perilous act of putting one's head in a tiger's mouth. The YSRC chief employed vivid analogies, likening voting for Naidu to awakening Chandramukhi, a renowned demonic figure from Indian cinema. Buoyed by his Memanta Siddham bus yatra, the ruling party president commenced his next phase of campaign from Tadipatri in Anantapur district on Sunday, redoubling the pitch of implementing his partys 2024. Later, the CM also participated in public rallies in Venkatagiri and Kandukur constituencies. Addressing charged crowds, Jagan Mohan Reddy asserted that the YSRC government has delivered on its promises made in its 2019 manifesto, which he referred to as a holy book. He described the upcoming elections as a crucial choice between continuing his government's transformative welfare agenda or its dismantling by an opposition regime. This election is not about electing MPs and MLAs. It is about deciding whether the life-changing initiatives for the poor will continue for another five years or wither away. Our schemes will continue uninterrupted if you reaffirm your faith in YSRC. However, be prepared for the untimely demise of these schemes if you succumb to Chandrababu's mirage of fictional promises, warned the YSRC chief. He accused the TD chief of rehashing unrealistic pledges to suck the blood of poor, like a Chandramukhi. He reminded people that the TD-Jana Sena-BJP combines Super 6 guarantees are to deceive the people once again in 2024, like the alliance did in 2014. Contrarily, he claimed, his government has treated its 2019 manifesto commitments as sacrosanct, directly transferring over 2.7 lakh crore to beneficiaries through 130 types of welfare payments. Jagan Mohan Reddy said: As elections are drawing near, non-locals are coming to our state. However, be assured; these opportunists will quickly return to Hyderabad once they face defeat. Chandrababu's alliance is merely a non-local kitty party group with no genuine interest in the welfare of our people, or the development of our state. CM pauses speech during namaz While addressing public at his meeting in Kandukur, he paused his speech on hearing the call from nearby masjid for Muslims to pray. Highlighting his tenure's achievements, he said the village / ward secretariat system brought governance to the people's doorsteps, along with initiatives like revamped schools, village clinics, and transparent financial assistance schemes. On education, Jagan cited digital classrooms, free textbooks and meals, English teaching via the IB curriculum, and online certification courses as major reforms. He listed pro-farmer measures like interest-free crop loans, free electricity, input subsidies, crop insurance, and assured procurement at MSPs. He also highlighted women's empowerment and caste-based quotas in nominated positions and ministries. The YSRC chief pointed out that the TD regime not only deceived farmers on loan waivers, but also failed to waive a single rupee of DWCRA loans.

Heat Wave Sweeps Rayalaseema, Rains Lash ASR District

Commuters cover themselves with scarves to escape the heat wave in Nellore (Photo: Deccan Chronicle) Visakhapatnam : Some parts in Rayalaseema region of AP suffered searing heat conditions for the second time in the season on Sunday. ASR district, however, witnessed thunderstorms, which lashed Paderu and Chintapalli for the second day. Visakhapatnam region remained cool as the sky remained overcast for the entire day. Visakhapatnam registered a temperature of 35.4 degrees Celsius while Kalingapatnam recorded 35.1 degrees Celsius, making it the coldest place in the state for the day. A report from IMD Amaravati said two places in AP recorded more than 45 degree Celsius temperatures on Sunday, the first time in April this year. People across the state felt the pinch of the rise in mercury levels, compelling many people to remain indoors for the entire day. On Sunday (April 28), Nandyal was the hottest in the state with 45.6C, followed by Kurnool (45.2C), Anantapur (44.1C), Jangamaheswarapuram (44C), Kadapa (43.6C), Nandigama (43C), Tirupati (42.9C) and Amaravati (42.2C). The remaining parts of the state recorded maximum temperatures between 39C and 41C. On Saturday (April 27), Nandyal was the hottest in the state with 44.9C, followed by Kurnool (44.5C), Anantapur (43.7C), Kadapa (43.4C), Jangamaheswarapuram (43.2C) and Tirupati (42.9C). Mercury levels are likely to rise above 45C at many places in Rayalaseema region and in some parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh during the first week of May, said Dr. S. Karuna Sagar, scientist at IMD Amaravati. Many political leaders rescheduled their campaign timing from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. However, in north coastal Andhra, the campaign went on for the entire day, as the temperature remained moderate.

Jagan will secure bigger majority in Pulivendula: Bharathi

Anantapur: Y.S. Bharathi, the spouse of Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, exuded confidence on Sunday, stating that Jagan's upcoming victory in Pulivendula would surpass previous election results. Amidst a fervent campaign in Kadapa district, Bharathi engaged with diverse segments of the populace, witnessing overwhelming support for Jagan across the constituency. She emphasized Jagan's commitment to delivering on manifesto pledges, contrasting his approach with Chandrababu Naidu's history of unfulfilled promises. Bharathi reaffirmed her unwavering support for Jagan, continuing a tradition established by her late father-in-law, Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy and reiterated her dedication to serving the electorate.

58 mandals in Andhra Pradesh to reel under severe heatwave today

VIJAYAWADA: As many as 58 mandals in the State are likely to reel under severe heatwave, while 148 mandals are likely to experience heatwave-like conditions on Sunday. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty wind speeds reaching 30 -40 kmph likely at isolated places over North Coastal Andhra Pradesh (NCAP) on Sunday and Monday. Heatwave likely at isolated places over Rayalaseema for the same period. Further, hot, humid, and discomfort weather is likely at isolated places across the State. On Saturday, AP largely experienced hot and humid conditions with daytime temperatures being above 400 C at most places. APSDMA in its daily bulletin said on Saturday that 77 mandals experienced severe heatwave, and 98 mandals reported heatwave. Chagalamarri in the Nandyal recorded the highest daytime temperature of 45.90 C followed by Renigunta in Tirupati at 45.70 C, Khajipeta in YSR, Salur in Paravatipuram Manaym at 45.20 C, Gajapathinagaram in Vizianagaram and Kodumur in Kurnool at 44.80 C , Tadipatri in Anantapur at 44.40 C , Burju in Srikakulam and Macherla in Palnadu at 44.20 C , Dendulur in Eluru 44.10 C and Peddamandyam at 440 C.

Andhra Pradesh Sizzles As Temperatures Spike

There is a severe water crisis. She had gone to fetch water, where she felt giddy and collapsed, said the deceased's uncle, as quoted in a report. (Representational image) There is a severe water crisis. She had gone to fetch water, where she felt giddy and collapsed, said the deceased's uncle, as quoted in a report. (Representational image) Visakhapatnam: Andhra Pradesh witnessed a scorching Saturday as Nandyal became the first location in the state to record a scorching 45C. This intense heat forced many residents across the state to seek refuge indoors.The India Meteorological Departments (IMD) Amaravati branch reported that other cities and towns were not far behind, with Kurnool reaching 44.5C, Anantapur at 43.7C, Kadapa at 43.4C, Jangamaheswarapuram at 43.2C, and Tirupati at 42.9C. The rest of the state experienced highs ranging from 39C to 41C. Theres a possibility of mercury levels exceeding 45C in many Rayalaseema areas and some coastal Andhra Pradesh (CAP) locations during the first week of May, warned Dr S. Karuna Sagar, a scientist at IMD-Amaravati. More locations in Rayalaseema and CAP are expected to be gripped by heat waves starting today due to persistent dry winds, Karunasagar added. The intense heat and humidity resulted in deserted streets in several parts of Rayalaseema and CAP, particularly in Nandyal, Kurnool, and a few other Rayalaseema towns.The IMD forecasts a continuation of heat wave conditions in Rayalaseema from April 28th to May 1st. Meanwhile, CAP can expect hot and humid weather with a slight chance of evening thunderstorms during the same period. With scorching temperatures and high humidity prevailing across most of the state, the IMD advises residents to avoid venturing outdoors between 11 am and 3 pm.

B. Tech Ravi says he is poorer than Jagan DC

Anantapur: Telugu Desam candidate from Pulivendula assembly constituency B. Tech Ravi has objected to Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy and YSRC candidate from Pulivendula repeatedly claiming that the present polls are a fight between the poor and the rich sections. The TD candidate pointed out that Jagan Mohan Reddys assets are about 750 crore as per his election affidavit. How can he repeatedly claim at every public meeting that he is poor, Ravi asked. The TD candidate claimed that comparatively, he is very poor, as his total assets are worth about 80 lakh. He called on voters to decide who is poor and rich before voting.

Cross-voting fear looms over MP candidates in Anantapur, Hindupur LS constituencies

ANANTAPUR: The ruling YSRC and opposition TDP-JSP-BJP alliance are facing a peculiar problem in Anantapur and Hindupur Lok Sabha constituencies of the undivided Anantapur district where anxiety over potential cross-voting looms over MP candidates. Amidst the campaign fervour, supporters of the MLA candidates are conspicuously rallying solely for their respective contenders, without endorsing any MP candidates. During campaigns across various Assembly segments, voters, too, have expressed reluctance to support MP candidates for various reasons. Interestingly, MLA candidates have refrained from refuting this stance and instead urging voters to back them while leaving their MP vote choice open-ended. Loyalists commit to voting solely for their partys MLA nominees, considering factors like caste, locality, and past performance when considering the MP candidate. Adding complexity to the electoral landscape, three out of the four MP contenders of YSRC and the alliance parties are non-locals. The incumbent Penukonda MLA and former minister M Shankar Narayana is YSRCs MP candidate from Anantapur, Ambica Lakshmi Narayana, who hails from Hindupur, represents the TDP. For Hindupur, Jolada Rashi Shantamma from Ballari in Karnataka, is the YSRC candidate, while former Penukonda MLA BK Parthasarathi represents the TDP. Shankar Narayana, hailing from Dharmavaram but victorious in Penukonda, faces opposition from a faction of party leaders in his constituency over allegation of mistreatment of party workers. Similarly, Ambica Lakshmi Narayana, considered an outsider due to his Hindupur origins, encounters resistance as he contests from Anantapur. Shantamma, also perceived as an outsider, has been fueling discontent against her candidature. As party leaders and their supporters seek votes solely for their MLA contenders, the silence regarding support for their partys MP candidates raises speculations of potential cross-voting. The non-local factor, coupled with local dynamics, hints at a complex electoral scenario in the two parliamentary constituencies. Resolving election issues in Apur dist A command control room has been established at the Anantapur Collectorate, while control rooms have been set up in all Assembly constituencies for the registration of election-related complaints Command Control Centre 18004258802 (OR) 08554-234122, 18004258803 (OR) 08554-239822, 18004258804 (OR) 08554-231722

Andhra Pradesh: Pupils with special needs pick computers over scribes

VIJAYAWADA : Persevering several obstacles, 11 visually impaired and two orthopedically impaired students stood tall in the SSC results. It is worth mentioning that these students undertook the examination without the assistance of a scribe, relying instead on specially designed computer software. All the students were trained on Computers at Rural Development Trust (RDT), Ananthapuram. Government Exams director D Devananda Reddy said that nearly 3,000 students with special needs appeared for the exam, of them around 1,000 students utilised the scribe facility. He affirmed their readiness to facilitate scribe-less exams by offering digital paper to any student with special needs. Among the top performers, Ramannagari Bhargavi from Tenegallu village of Anantapur, an orthopaedically impaired student, emerged as the highest scorer, securing an impressive 429 out of 500 with an overall percentage of 85.8% in this category. Bhargavis outstanding performance was marked by exemplary scores in each subject, with notable achievements in Telugu (87), English (90), Mathematics (83), Science (91), and Social Studies (78). Her consistent excellence underscores her dedication and academic prowess, earning her recognition as one of the top achievers in the examination. Following closely behind, Kuruba Deepika from Madapuram village in Sri Sathya Sai district, a visually challenged girl, showcased exceptional resilience by securing an impressive 415 marks (83%). In addition to Bhargavi and Deepika, several visually impaired students achieved remarkable success in the SSC exams. Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan Senior Advisor Ram Kamal emphasised that scribes cannot read the minds of visually impaired students, and relying on them may hinder students ability to secure future employment opportunities. He advocated for every student to transition from the conventional scribe system to computers. Visually challenged students Arava Ravi Eswar (387), Challa Nirmala (376) from Ramasagaram village of Sri Satya Sai district, Joharapuram Sainath (361) from Nagaruru of Kurnool district, Bestha Meghana (356) from Kuntimaddi village of Sri Satya Sai district, Gatlu Sravani (353), Vadde Naveen Kumar (352), Kattubadi Mallika(334) from Shabhaspuram village of Kurnool district, Nagarajugari Suma (319) from Kurnool district, Patan Madiha (300) from Kadiri village of Sri Satya Sai district and Sajjala Dileep (262) from Anantapur and Anubolu Guruswamy (274), an orthopaedically impaired, demonstrated commendable performance in the exams showcasing their unwavering commitment to academic excellence. Speaking to TNIE, Commissioner of School Education S Suresh Kumar expressed his satisfaction with the remarkable achievements of children with special needs, highlighting their perseverance, determination, and unwavering commitment to academic excellence. He emphasised that initiatives aimed at fostering self-confidence among these students are crucial and represent a significant step forward in encouraging and providing facilities to support their education. He assured that they would be encouraged to appear for Intermediate exams on computers.

Andhra Pradesh: Six Lok Sabha Seats Never Saw Female Contestant

Visakhapatnam: Since independence, no major political party in Andhra Pradesh has fielded women candidates for the Lok Sabha seats of Anantapur, Guntur, Hindupur, Machilipatnam, Nandyala and Ongole. No woman candidate ever won the polls from these constituencies. From Narasapur and Ongole, two women from lesser-known parties tried for the seats, but failed. Andhra Pradesh has 25 Lok Sabha seats. Four of these are reserved for SC (Scheduled Caste) and one for ST (Scheduled Tribe) candidates. The remaining 20 seats are unreserved. The Election Commissions data shows AP has an electorate of 3,99,84,868, with female voters outnumbering males at 2,02,21,455 and 1,97,59,489 respectively. Women voters have a significant presence in each constituency. However, this presence is not reflected in the Lok Sabha. No woman from Anantapur, Guntur, Hindupur, Machilipatnam, Nandyala and Ongole has ever been elected. Parliament represents the aspirations and concerns of its citizens. However, there have been instances of women candidates entering the fray in other constituencies. In Rajampet and Tirupati, the BJP and TD fielded women candidates, albeit only once. In 2014, Rajampet YSRC contestant PV Midhun Reddy was challenged by Daggupati Purandeswari, representing BJP. She secured 426990 votes but lost the battle. In 1996, TD gave Tirupatis Lok Sabha ticket to Gali Rajasree, who secured 292406 votes but was defeated by Nelavala Subrahmanyam of the Congress. In Narasapur, no major political party has given ticket to women since independence. However, Ganji Purnima, representing the Republican Party Of India (A), contested the polls there, got 865 votes and stood as the 14th runner-up. Similarly, for the Ongole Lok Sabha seat, Gogineni Bharati Devi, representing the SWA party, contested and secured 104703 votes but was defeated by P Ankineedu Prasada Rao of the Congress, who secured 284597 votes. Andhra Pradesh still faces challenges in ensuring adequate representation of women candidates in Lok Sabha elections. Efforts to promote gender equality and encourage womens participation remain crucial for a more balanced political landscape.

64 mandals in Andhra Pradesh likely to experience severe heatwave conditions today

VISAKHAPATNAM : Dry weather conditions persist in the State as severe heatwaves grip multiple mandals across various districts. On Saturday, 64 mandals, including three in Alluri Sitarama Raju, six in Anakapalli, two each in East Godavari and Eluru, one in Kakinada, 13 in Parvathipuram Manyam, 15 in Srikakulam, and 22 in Vizianagaram, are expected to experience severe heat waves, while 183 mandals are forecast to encounter heatwave conditions. The India Meteorological Departments Amaravati Centre reports that isolated places in Rayalaseema are likely to witness heatwaves on Saturday. Additionally, hot, humid weather is expected at isolated locations in North Coastal Andhra Pradesh (NCAP), Yanam, and South Coastal Andhra Pradesh (SCAP). Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph are also predicted in isolated parts of NCAP and Yanam. The heatwave conditions are expected to persist until April 30, with isolated places in Rayalaseema likely to experience heatwaves. Discomforting weather conditions are anticipated at isolated locations in NCAP, Yanam, and SCAP. On Friday, 41 mandals reported severe heatwaves, while 116 mandals recorded heatwave conditions. Nandyala registered the highest maximum temperature at 44.6 degrees Celsius, followed closely by Kurnool at 44, Anantapur at 43.4, Kadapa at 43.2, and Tirupati at 43.3 degrees Celsius. According to the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority, since April 1, four districtsAlluri Sitarama Raju, Nandyal, Parvathipuram Manyam, and Nellorehave reported the highest temperature of 45.8 degrees Celsius. Additionally, 26 other locations throughout the State have recorded temperatures exceeding 42 degrees Celsius.

Woman suffers cardiac arrest in a polling booth, doctor saves her

BENGALURU: A woman in her fifties, who suffered a cardiac arrest in a polling booth in the city on Friday, was saved by a doctor who was waiting in a queue there to exercise his franchise. The incident occurred at the government school in Jumbo Savari Dinne, JP Nagar, 8th Phase. The woman collapsed in front of Dr Ganesh Srinivasa Prasad in the booth (No 210) around 9am. Dr Prasad immediately resorted to Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and saved her life. Dr Prasad, 36, hails from Anantapur in Andhra Pradesh. He works as a nephrologist at Narayana Health Centre in Bommasandra. The woman collapsed while taking water from a can at the booth. I checked her pulse but did not feel it. She was gasping for breath and I immediately resorted to CPR till her condition improved, Dr Prasad told TNIE. Netizens praise doc who saved woman She would have lost her life had there been a delay in attending to her, Dr Prasad said. He said, Vasovagal Syncope could have triggered the cardiac arrest. Her heart had stopped beating when I checked. Many factors, including anxiety, heat stroke or even fear when injections are given can cause the condition. Dr Prasad studied MBBS in Andhra Pradesh and completed Doctorate in National Board (DrNB) Nephrology at Narayana Health Centre. He worked in Tumakuru for two years. He joined Narayana Health Centre two years ago. The incident went viral after the doctor posted the videos on X. Many responded to the posts by him and TNIE . Most of them lauded Dr Prasad and stressed the need for people to learn CPR.

Foolproof System of Delivering Schemes Helps Jagan Big Time

Anantapur : It is not just the direct benefit transfer (DBT) schemes paid out welfare money but also developing a foolproof system for their effective delivery at the beneficiaries doorstep, besides offering numerous other services through the village and ward secretariats, that has endeared Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy to the people. However, the narrowing down of the YSRC voter base to these beneficiaries is a cause of concern to the ruling party contestants from the two erstwhile Rayalaseema districts of Anantapur and Kurnool, which have a combined strength of 26 Assembly segments and four Lok Sabha seats. In the absence of any wave for or against the government, a keen contest is on cards in many of these seats. My mother waited for five years during Telugu Desam rule and never got pension. She used to make the rounds of government offices. After the change of government in 2019, she was granted pension within three months and availed it for a few months before she died with a sense of satisfaction, said Padma, owner of a roadside hotel. This summed up the success of saturation mode adopted by the YSRC government for the disbursal of old age pensions. This was against restricted release of pensions by the previous government, Padma added. While the men gathered at her hotel spoke ill of the taste of liquor they get these days, that too at an exorbitant price, and some of whom even condemned the arrest of Telugu Desam president N. Chandrababu Naidu at such an old age, another woman, a shopkeeper adjacent to the hotel, extended her wholehearted support to Jagananna. The reason, she said, pointing to her school-going daughter, was the payment of Rs 15,000 under Amma Vodi a scheme to discourage school drop-outs. The beneficiaries were happy over the volunteers delivering the pension amount at their doorstep which they said was helpful to the elderly and the differently-abled. Last month, old people suffered because they had to walk all the way to the offices to collect their pension, complained Kondappagari Krishna Reddy, resident of Bondireddypalli, once a faction-ridden village near Raptadu in Anantapur district. The village secretariats helped the ruling party enhance its image by seamlessly offering a whopping 545 state-related services and another 200 of the Central government. Earlier, we had to go all the way to mandal office and wait for days or months to get caste certificates or land records. Now if we apply through Mee Seva, volunteers are delivering even adangal and 1B certificates at the doorstep, said Obulayya, a farmer. But, the ruling party contestants were also wary of the party heavily depending on the beneficiaries and distancing itself from the others. We lost sections that solidly stood behind us, for instance, government employees. We no longer enjoy strong support among the OCs. We also could have more effectively countered the narrative built by the Opposition that Jagan did nothing except pressing the button to pass on the DBT amounts, said a contestant on condition of anonymity. Echoing the fears of the ruling party leaders, Sanjeevappa, a resident of Bukkarayasamudram near Anantapur, says he and his wife would definitely vote for Jagan Mohan Reddy but his daughter and son-in-law, private company employees, were unhappy over the state government ignoring development and in particular not succeeding in getting industries.

Six RTC passengers injured seriously

Anantapur: At least six passengers of an APSRTC bus belonging to the Kalyandurg depot suffered serious injuries when the bus overturned near Mallikarjunapalli in Kalyandurg mandal of the district on Friday evening. Kalyandurg circle inspector Harinath said the bus with 50 passengers had been coming from Bellary district headquarters of Karnataka to Kalyandurg. When the bus reached Mallikarjunapalle. the driver noticed a buffalo suddenly crossing the road. While trying to avoid the animal, the driver lost control, leading to the bus falling on the left side of the road. Six passengers suffered serious injuries and have been shifted to the Kalyandurg hospital.

Doctor saves woman who suffered cardiac arrest while voting in Bengaluru

BENGALURU: A woman in her fifties turned out to be extremely lucky on Friday morning when she visited the government school at Jumbo Savari Dinne in JP Nagar 8th Phase to cast her vote in the Lok Sabha elections. She suffered a cardiac arrest, Dr Ganesh Srinivasa Prasad, who was also waiting in the queue at the booth to cast his vote, plunged into the rescue act by administering Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and saved her life. Dr Prasad (36), a native of Anantapur in Andhra Pradesh, works as a Nephrologist at Narayana Health Centre, Bommasandra. The woman was trying to take water from a can placed near the queue of voters. She suddenly felt dizzy and began to fall, but was caught by the doctor and another person in the queue. Dr. Prasad told TNIE, Upon checking her pulse, I observed it was very low. Her eyes rolled upwards, and her body exhibited no response, with gasping breaths. Acting swiftly, I initiated CPR, resulting in a notable improvement in her condition. Election duty personnel promptly provided her with juice, and an ambulance was summoned, arriving within five minutes to rush her to the hospital. We might have even lost her if there had been a delay he added. As I was waiting in queue....one lady had syncope and cardiac arrest in front of me There was no pulse and I started immediate CPR ... luckily she got ROSC within minutes #LokSabhaElections2024 @ECISVEEP @SpokespersonECI @Lolita_TNIE @chetanabelagere https://t.co/NFN5GVWaaR pic.twitter.com/azcH4Su2aD Dr Ganesh Srinivasa Prasad ( ) (@thisis_drgsp) April 26, 2024 Dr Prasad added, Vasovagal Syncope could have triggered the cardiac arrest. Her heart had stopped beating when I checked. Many factors, including anxiety, heat stroke or even sudden fear when injections are administered can cause the condition. The doctor tweeted the incident with accompanying videos and it went viral on X- social media platform. After the fulsome praise and the celebrity status, the Nephrologist returned to work at his hospital.

Seizures in Andhra Pradesh touch Rs 165.91 crore

VIJAYAWADA: After the announcement of the election schedule, Rs 165.91 crore worth cash, liquor, drugs, precious metals and other articles have been seized in the State, informed Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Mukesh Kumar Meena. In a release issued on Thursday, the CEO said effective vigil is being kept in the State to prevent illegal transportation of cash, liquor and other voter inducements. The State will go to polls on May 13. Continuous surveillance has resulted in seizure of Rs 165.91 crore worth cash, drugs, liquor, gold and silver and other articles, he added. MCC enforcement Rs 8.65 crore worth election inducements seized in 24 hours Rs 36.89 cr cash Rs 20.32 cr worth liquor Rs 2.87 cr worth drugs Rs 91.26 cr worth precious metals Total Rs 165.91 cr The highest seizure of election inducements worth Rs 30.66 cr were seized in Anantapur parliamentary constituency. The least seizure of election inducements worth Rs 1.15 cr was recorded in Narasapuram Lok Sabha segment.

Jagan has 30,000 cash in hand for family

ANANTAPUR : Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has in his affidavit filed along with his nomination papers mentioned that his family, including him, wife and two daughters have 30,000 in cash with them. The CM filed his nomination papers with the returning officer of the Pulivendula Assembly constituency in Kadapa district on Thursday. Jagan Mohan Reddy has mentioned that he has 7,000 cash, while wife Bharathi has 10,022 and elder daughter Harshini has 9,000 and second daughter Varsha Reddy has 6,987 with them. As per the affidavit, the family does not own vehicles on their name, except a bulletproof vehicle registered in the name of Jagan Mohan Reddy following the directive of the home ministry. Though the bullet-proof vehicle is on his name, it is not owned by him, the Chief Minister clarified. Among other details are Jagan Mohan Reddy not owning any gold or diamond jewellery. His wife Bharathi has 6,427.79 grams of gold and diamonds worth 5.29 crore, elder daughter has 4,187.19 grams of gold and diamonds worth of 4.43 crore and younger daughter has 3,457 grams of gold and diamonds worth of 4.46 crore, as per the market value. The CM has paid income tax of 4.65 crore, while Bharathi has under protest paid IT of 1.56 crore. His daughters have paid 10.85 lakh and 10.39 lakh as advance tax. Movable assets of Jagan Mohan Reddy are worth 483.08 crore, while those of Bharathi are 119.38 crore. Harshini has movable assets of 22.94 crore and offshore assets worth 1.31 crore. Varsha has movable assets of 22.39 crore and offshore assets of 1.54 crore. The Idupulapaya land owned by the family is 39.52 acres, whose present worth is 1.54 crore.

Cash, Items of Rs 165.91 Crore Seized in AP After Release of Election Schedule

Vijayawada: Chief Electoral Officer Mukesh Meena has said cash, liquor, drugs, precious metals, free bees and other items worth more than Rs 165.91 crore have been seized since the announcement of the election schedule in AP. He said that as the general elections are slated for May 13 in the state, a strong vigil has been kept on the illegal transportation of cash, liquor, drugs, precious metals etc that might be distributed by candidates or parties to attract voters. Through inter-state as well as other check posts in the state, more than 20 enforcement agencies such as police, excise, income tax, forest, ED, NCB, RPF, customs etc are on constant vigil against illegal transportation of cash and goods for election-related canvassing. Illegally transported assets worth Rs 8.65 crore have been seized in the last 24 hours alone. The highest amount of Rs 30.66 crore was seized in Anantapur LS constituency and the lowest amount of Rs 1.15 crore in Narsapuram LS. The total amount seized till date was Rs 36.89 crore in cash, 6,62,402.65 litres of liquor worth Rs 20.32 crore, 52,28,218.94 grams of drugs worth Rs 2.78 crore, 14,73,734.46 grams of precious metals worth Rs 91.26 crore, 4,88,557 items worth Rs 2.90 crore, Freebies (freebies) and other items worth Rs 11.74 crore were seized, he said. In Tirupati (SC), Rs 19.37 crore was seized; Kakinada Rs 18.18 crore, Elur Rs 13.77 crore, Visakhapatnam Rs 12.50 crore, Rajampet Rs 6.96 crore, Vijayawada Rs 6.75 crore, Nandyala Rs 5.63 crore, Kadapa Rs 5.62 crore, Narasaraopet Rs 4.61 crore, Vizianagaram Rs 4.18 crore, Bapatla (SC) Rs 3.99 crore, Anakapalli Rs 3.72 crore, Rajahmundry Rs 3.62 crore, Srikakulam Rs 3.61 crore, Araku (ST) Rs 3.37 crore, Nellore Rs 3 crore, Machilipatnam Rs 2.87 crore, Guntur Rs 2.75 crore, Kurnool Rs 2.45 crore, Chittoor (SC) Rs 1.94 crore, Ongole Rs 1.93 crore, Hindupur Rs 1.63 crore and in Amalapuram (SC) Rs 1.52 crore.

Developed Tadipatri constituency cries for attention

ANANTAPUR : Tadipatri Assembly constituency, which was once known for violence and faction feuds, has seen significant development over the past decade. However, the voters have often rued that the development has been limited to the urban areas. The constituency comprises Peddavadugur, Tadipatri, Yadiki and Peddapappur mandals. The mineral-rich region also holds the distinction of electing a legislator for six consecutive terms. Sons of JC Nagi Reddy, a prominent freedom fighter and politician from the region, had a stronghold over the constituency. JC Diwakar Reddy first contested the seat in 1985 on Congress ticket and retained it till 2009. While his brother JC Prabhakar Reddy won the seat in 2014 on a TDP ticket, Diwakar Reddy clinched the Anantapur MP seat. However, in 2019, both brothers stepped down giving way for their respective sons Ashmit Reddy and Pawan Kumar Reddy. They both lost. The TDP has once again fielded Ashmit Reddy from the Tadipatri segment, while the ruling YSRC has renominated sitting MLA Kethireddy Pedda Reddy. It may be pointed out that Kethireddy was once a close associate of JC Diwakar Reddy, but they both dont see eye to eye now. Under JC Prabhakar Reddy, Tadipatri Municipality emerged as a model municipality in the country. Residents of Tadipatri say there has been a sea change in the living standards in Tadipatri town. The constituency has high presence of limestone, which resulted in many cement companies such as Ultratech, Penna and Sagar setting up their units. Other minerals that can be found in the region are black stone and soap stone. While iron ore deposits are found in Peddapappur, granite is found in Peddavadugur. However, despite being mineral rich, the region is marred by water and unemployment crisis. Employment opportunities for locals are minimal as 900 of the total 1,200 granite factories and 2,000 black stone units shut shop. Nagaraju of Tadipatri said, Despite one single family holding power for so long, the constituencys problems remain unaddressed. Drinking water is an issue, there is rampant illegal sand mining. Trees are regularly chopped off and the garbage system is abysmal. Peddavadugur is dependent on agriculture. But due to lack of proper irrigation facilities, farmers are forced to bring water in tractors for their crops. They do not even get a good support price for their yield. Where is this so called development. For me it is not visible, Ramanjaneyulu, a farmer in Peddavaduguru, lamented. Of the 15 times that elections have been held in the Tadipatri Assembly constituency, Congress won 10 times, TDP twice, KMPP (Kisan Mazdoor Praja Party) once, YSRC once and an independent candidate once. The constituency has also produced several ministers. Challa Subbarayudu was minister in PV Narasimha Rao and Jalagam Vengala Raos cabinets, while Diwakar Reddy was minister in Marri Chenna Reddy, N Janardhan Reddy, Kotla Vijayabhaskar Reddy, YS Rajasekhara Reddys cabinets. He has also served a protem speaker once.

BJP key leaders to accompany candidates during filing nominations

Union Minister V.K. Singh will be present when BJP national secretary Y. Satya Kumar Yadav will file hisnomination from Dharmavaram Assembly constituency in Anantapur district.

Palegars Faction Feud Turning Old Story in Seema Politics

Anantapur: The centuries-old faction rivalry in Palegar is largely a thing of the past today, with attempts being made by some leaders for compromises and deals with their enemies, so as to eschew violence at various levels in Rayalaseema region. They are following the footsteps of the leaders from faction-hit families, who kept their children away from such practices. Thousands of children with faction backgrounds have changed course, abhorred violence and are now employed as software engineers or are handling white collar jobs in respectable professions. This has prompted the elders too to keep themselves away from faction rivalry during the past decade. Even top leaders like Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy, Kethineni Suryaprathap Reddy, Paritala, Maddelacheruvu Suri, Ramsubba Reddy, Adinarayana Reddy, and the Katasani family shunned faction rivalry and succeeded in persuading their followers to not get involved in faction feud. This changed for the better the lives of hundreds of faction-hit families. Faction violence had its roots in medieval history after the chieftains (palegars) of various villages and forts became independent rulers since 1565. This was after the Talikota battle, when faction rivalries had polluted the political system in the region. Faction leaders turned themselves into political leaders to outwit their rivals. Compromise deals and an urge on the part of some faction leaders to work in the same party along with rival leaders eventually led to a decline in faction feud even in the villages where the rivalries were often hard-edged. Top-level leaders realised that faction feud must be stopped at some level through compromise and this also involved, say, pardoning a rival who killed ones family members. For instance, former chief minister YS Rajasekhar Reddy never encouraged his aides to target those who had brutally killed his father, YS Raja Reddy, two decades ago. Recently, Sathish Reddy, TD leader from Pulivendula, who faced allegations in the case, joined the YSRC in the presence of YS Jagan Mohan Reddy at Pulivendula. The wheel has turned full circle. Jammalamadugu, a hard-core faction-hit area in Kadapa district, is an example of a compromise deal between rival faction leaders. The two and half decades-long rivalry between the families of former minister P Siva Reddy and his adversary Devagudi Sankar Reddy had spawned many violent incidents. P Ramasubba Reddy, a TD leader, had been convicted in a double-murder case during the Congress rule. He was an active leader of the YSRC. Former minister Adinaryana Reddy joined the TD but he is now contesting as the BJP candidate in Jammalamadugu. Kapatralla, a prominent faction village in Kurnool district, was adopted by the police some time ago. It yielded results and faction groups were being weaned away from rivalries. They are now concentrating their energies on the regions development. Dharmavaram MLA, K Venkatrami Reddy, an engineering graduate, had entered politics after his father Sureedu was hacked by rivals at Tadipathri. His uncle K Pedda Reddy, sitting MLA from Tadipathri, who was also maintaining a distance from faction rivalry, said the family had suffered a lot with faction feud in the past, and we will not encourage anyone to continue with such a mindset. The faction feuds in the region had led to the introduction of land mines, TV bombs, car bombs, ice cream bombs and high-end weapons like Ak-47 along with the traditional hunting sickles and crude bombs in the past four decades after such rivalries took on a political colour. The political links were flimsy in a majority of the cases. Factionists developed themselves as constituency level leaders and were elected as MLAs and MPs in course of time. Records say that at least 2000 men from the Congress, TD and other parties had been killed in the last four decades in Rayalaseema region. Analysts say faction culture was majorly suppressed for a decade and such instances are confined to only a few areas now. The elders, mostly Reddys, Kammas and Boyas, woke up to the consequences of faction rivalry and succeeded in providing quality education to their children. Most of them completed engineering graduation and settled in the software industry in Bengaluru or Hyderabad during the past decade. The victims are voluntarily engaging in the spread of awareness against faction fued in the villages. We are conducting such campaigns at all faction-hit villages, stated Appireddy Harinath Reddy, writer. Four children from Tagarakunta Prabhakars faction-hit family from Kanganipalle, completed education and got employment as software engineers. They are away from such activities of the past.

Unkept poll promises rankle Guntakal segment

ANANTAPUR : Once known for its development and hailed as the second Bombay for its textile industries, the Guntakal Assembly constituency is now in dire need of a helping hand for its resurgence. One of the seven Assembly constituencies in Anantapur district, Guntuakal has three mandalsGuntakal, Gooty, and Pamidi. Guntakal is also the railway division headquarters and where Asias largest spinning mill used to exist. The constituency is also famous for its third-century Gooty fort. Even as the other constituencies in the region develop with more industries coming their way and old ones getting revived, there is development taking place in the constituency and it has been regressing day by day. The promises made to the people of the constituencies during elections have not just remained tall talk but empty walk. Guntakal Spinning Mill employed 1,352 people directly and several depended on it indirectly. It was started in 1954 in the cooperative sector and was locked down in 1991. Since then, during every election, promises have been made for its revival, but even after more than three decades, nothing has happened. Even during the runup to the 2019 elections, TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu, Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan, and the current Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy have given assurance for its revival during their election campaign in Guntakal. However, nothing happened, leaving people of the region dejected. Now, yet again people are looking forward to the leaders giving some concrete assurances. It is not just Guntakal Spinning Mill that was locked down, there are several other small and medium industries that were closed down in the constituency in the past several years. They include the sleeper coach unit of the Indian Railway. It went to Mantralayam of Kurnool district. Pamidi mandal of the constituency was famous as the second Bombay and used to provide employment to around 25,000 people directly and indirectly. The government set up a textile park expecting large scale employment. However, due to neglect of the government afterward, the textile park is now on the verge of closure. Gooty fort was constructed during the era of Emperor Ashoka as evidenced by the stone inscriptions. At Yerragudi in Jonnagiri, located 12 km from Gooty, eleven stone inscriptions explain this hill fort, which is one of the biggest in the country. Historical evidence points out that Chalukyan king Vikramaditya-V named the fort at Gutii and in later centuries kings of Vijayanagara fortified it further. There are 101 wells in this hill fort and after the Vijayanagara Empire, it fell into the hands of Qutub Shahis and later came under the reign of Murari Rao Ghorpade. Though promises were made to make the place a tourist hub, no action was forthcoming. Gooty is part of Indian history but lay neglected. Given the proximity to the national highway and railway connectivity, there is a need for it to be developed as an international tourist spot. Greenery has to be increased and MPLADS or MLA funds of Rs 50 lakh be spent on it every year and constructing a ropeway to this hillfort would be an added attraction, opined C Vijaya Bhaskar, founder president of Gooty Fort Conservation Society. Lack of proper drinking water and irrigation water facilities is another major problem for the constituency. Distributary canals from HNSS remain incomplete. Despite the Gooty Branch Canal, water is not provided to its capacity, leading to irrigation difficulties for the farmers of the constituency. Though assurances were given for lift irrigation projects at Kasapuram and Ragulapadu, nothing has materialised. Gaddala Mastanappa of Gooty said they get water once in 15 to 20 days and problems only increased after Gooty became a municipality. We only get empty promises every election, he said in a dejected voice It is a pity that none of the promises made were kept. It is high time the Gooty railway zone is created and water for drinking and irrigation is provided through Handri Neeva Sujala Sravanthi (HNSS) project and own buildings for Guntakal Polytechnic college are given, said G Srinivasulu, a resident of Guntakal. Male 1,34,304 Female 1,35,656 Transgender 76 Total electorate 2,67,036

Vontimitta Bathed in Divine Fervour as Wedding of Rama and Sita Captivates Thousands

Anantapur: Vontimitta reverberated with devotional energy on Monday evening as devotees thronged the temple centre to witness the wedding of Lord Sri Kodandarama Swamy and Goddess Sita. The Kalyana Vedika, transformed into a visual spectacle, overflowed with the vibrant colours and fragrance of four tonnes of flowers. Blue orchids, red anthurium, hydrangeas, and a myriad of other exotic blooms, alongside 30,000 cut flowers, created a breathtaking backdrop for the ceremony. The meticulous work of 200 florists, including a team from the TTD gardens and specialists from Hyderabad, culminated in a stage that mirrored a heavenly abode. Traditional touches like paddy grains, garlands, mangoes, coconut flowers, and banana leaves further accentuated the cultural significance of the event. The sheer number of devotees was a testament to the deep devotion within the community. Every inch of the galleries was filled, and the entire temple complex resonated with the unifying chant of Jai Sri Ram. The sacred ceremony, adhering to the tenets of Pancharatra Agama, commenced at 6:30 pm with Bhagavat Vignapanam and culminated by 8:30 pm. A series of rituals, including Anugna, Sankalpam, and Punyahavachanam, were performed under the guidance of chief priest Rajesh Bhattar. The union unfolded with Raksha Bandhanam, Yagnopaveeth Dharana, Kanyavaranam, and Madhuparkarchanam. Following these rituals, the priests meticulously performed Kanyadanam, reciting the ancestral lineages of both the bride and groom. The chanting of Vedic hymns filled the air as Mangalyasutra Pooja, Mangalyasutra Dharana, and Akshataropanam were carried out with utmost devotion. Nivedana, Veda Swasti, and Mahada Aseervachanam marked the joyous conclusion of the fete. Adding a special touch, the 13 jewels presented to Vontimitta Kodanda Rama by the TTD were displayed and their significance explained by the priests. The traditional Edurukolu, where the bride and groom face each other on separate platforms (Tiruchis), further enriched the ceremony. Every devotee received a Talambralu, Laddus, Kankanams, and Akshatalu kit. Following the wedding, Pulihora and Sweet Pongali prasadam were distributed at designated food counters. Sectoral officers, gallery staff, Srivari Sevaks, and Scouts ensured a smooth and hassle-free distribution process. The ceremony was graced by dignitaries including Special CS Karikalavalavan, Special CS S.S. Ravat, collector Vijayaramaraju, Upalokayukta Judge Justice Rajani, District Judge Justice Sridevi, SP Siddharth Kaushal, TTD EO A.V. Dharma Reddy, JEOs Goutami and Veerabrahmam, Ministers Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy and R.K. Roja, and several other prominent leaders.

One Set of Nominations Filed on Behalf of YS Jagan from Pulivendula

Anantapur: Pulivendula municipal vice chairman Y.S. Manohar Reddy filed a set of nomination papers on behalf of the Chief Minister and YSRC chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy as a candidate from Pulivendula assembly segment on Monday. The nomination was filed at the Puilivendula tahsildar office in Kadapa district. Accompanied by Pulivendula municipal chairman Varaprasada Reddy and other leaders, YS Manohar Reddy submitted a set of nomination papers. He said the CM will file another set of nominations on April 25 after leading a big rally that day. Manohar Reddy said the CMs Memantha Siddam Bus Yatra covered 21 districts so far. Manohar Reddy said the people of Pulivendula were eager to elect Jagan Mohan Reddy as their MLA and see him as CM of the state again. D Ravi Shankar, candidate of Jai Bharath National Party, submitted his nomination papers for the Puilivendula assembly segment. Meanwhile, G Rameswar Reddy filed nomination papers as candidate of Pyramid Party of India from Pulivendula on Monday. Bellam Kumar filed his nomination papers as the candidate of the BSP in Pulivendula. Meanwhile, Dastagiri, who is an approver in the Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy murder case, alleged that the police were resisting his attempt to file nominations as Jai Bheem party candidate on April 25. The authorities directed him to file the papers on another day as CM Jagan Reddy will be filing the papers that day. He stressed that there was no such rule for a candidate vis-a-vis filing of the nomination papers.

Tension in Madakasira, Rebel Candidate Files Nomination

Anantapur: A tense situation developed at Madakasira where TD cadres supporting the rebel candidate attacked vehicles of the Lok Sabha candidate BK Parthasarathi, Madakasira assembly candidate MS Raju and others on Monday. They were expressing their anger at the party high command over candidate selections. Dr Sunil Kumar, who was formerly announced as the party candidate by Nara Chandrababu Naidu and Nara Lokesh had filed one set of nominations as TD candidate three days ago. He received a shock when Naidu changed the candidate at the last minute and issued B-Form to the partys SC cell president MS Raju. This irritated Kumars supporters in the party. A major group of TD workers and leaders extended their support to Sunil Kumar. He took out a huge procession on Monday to file a second set of nominations as the TD rebel candidate. The rally of Sunil Kumar created a sensation in the town. TD cadres were seen beating the faces of Chandrababu and Lokesh on flexi boards with their slippers. They also set ablaze a few flexis and banners by shouting slogans against the party high command. The rebels gave an ultimatum to Naidu against fielding the non-local candidate. The vehicles of TDs Hindupur Lok Sabha candidate Parthasarathi and Madakasira candidate Raju were coming from the opposite side. A tense situation arose. Angry TD cadres damaged these vehicles and shouted at the party candidates to go back. Sunil Kumar filed his nominations as a rebel candidate and told the media, TD chief Chandrababu Naidu should realise that he hurt the sentiments of the Madakasira people. We are hoping that Naidu would change decision by respecting out sentiments and sense of self-respect. If not, the people are ready to teach a lesson to Naidu by giving a big electoral victory to me, he claimed. TD cadres lamented that the Madakasira constituency was to have an easy win for the TD but the change of candidate by Naidu turned matters upside down. This might help Congress candidate Dr Sudhakar, who was a former MLA and has strong links with all the villages and enjoys the support of AICC member N Raghuveera Reddy.

Police intensify surveillance at border check-posts in Anantapur

Police intensify surveillance at border check-posts in Anantapur - The Hindu

Police intensify surveillance at border check-posts in Anantapur The Hindu

AICC Announces Candidates for Nine MP Seats in Andhra Pradesh

Vijayawada: AICC has in its latest list on Sunday announced the names of Congress candidates who will be contesting from nine Lok Sabha constituencies in Andhra Pradesh. AICC general secretary K.C. Venugopal released the list for AP as well as Jharkhand states. The constituencies and names of Congress candidates are Srikakulam Dr. Pedada Parameswara Rao, Vizianagaram Bobbili Srinu, Amalapuram-SC Janga Goutham, Machilipatnam Gollu Krishna, Vijayawada Valluru Bhargav, Ongole Eda Sudhakara Reddy, Nandyal Jangiti Lakshmi Narasimha Yadav, Anantapur Malikarjun Vajjala, and Hindupur B.A. Samad Shaheen.

Heat Conditions in AP Continue Despite Rains

Visakhapatnam: Heat conditions are continuing in Rayalaseema and coastal Andhra Pradesh despite the light rains that lashed the state during the last 24 hours. Several locations in Rayalaseema recorded above 42C on Sunday, though many parts of the state had overcast skies but no significant rain. IMA Amaravati senior scientist Dr. S. Karuna Sagar said Kurnool and Tirupati stations recorded 42.6C, the highest temperature in the state, followed by Kadapa 42.5C, Jangamaheswarapuram 42.5C, Nandigama 42.4C, Nandyal 42.2C, Anantapur 42C, Nellore 41.7C, Gannavaram 41.6C and Amaravati 41C. People of Kurnool and a few other places in Rayalaseema experienced heatwave conditions on Sunday, while the remaining parts of the state remained hot and humid. From Monday to April 25, IMD has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds with a speed of 4050 kmph likely at isolated places over north coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam. Hot, humid, and uncomfortable weather conditions will prevail over coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema during the same period. Thundershowers accompanied by lightning lashed a few parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema region on Saturday night. People in Paderu of ASR district got relief from hot weather conditions after Paderu recorded one cm of rainfall.

Congress announces candidates for 9 more Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh

Congress announces candidates for 9 more Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh The Congress party on Sunday announced the names of candidates for nine more Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh for the upcoming elections. The Central Election Committee of the party announced candidates for Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Amalapuram (SC), Machilipatnam, Vijayawada, Ongole, Nandyala, Anantapur and Hindupur constituencies. According to an All India Congress Committee (AICC) press release, Jagna Goutham will contest from Amalapuram (SC), Valluru Bhargav (Vijayawada) and B A Samad Shaheen (Hindupur), among others. The Communist Party of India (CPI), Congress and CPI (M) are INDIA alliance partners in Andhra Pradesh. Congress has announced the names of candidates for 126 Assembly and 20 Lok Sabha seats. The grand old party has struck a seat-sharing deal with the CPM and CPI. The left parties are set to contest in one Lok Sabha and eight Assembly seats each. Elections for the 175-member Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh are scheduled on May 13 and the counting of votes is slated for June 4.

TD cadres of Madakasira Up in Arms over Rajus Nomination

Anantapur: Telugu Desam high commands sudden decision on Sunday to issue its B form for Madakasira to former MRPS leader and TD SC cell president M.S. Raju has made party cadres of the constituency reserved for scheduled castes see red. TDP leadership had two months ago announced that Dr. Sunil Kumar, a medical doctor by profession, will be its candidate from the Madakasira SC seat. Consequently, he had started campaigning in the constituency 60 days ago. He went on to file a set of nomination papers on April 18. He planned to file the second set of papers along with the party B-form on Monday. Significantly, Dr. Sunil Kumar candidature had been announced by TDP chief N. Chandrababu Naidu as well as Lokesh during their campaigning in Madakasira area. However, the party high command announced on Sunday a change in candidate from the constituency and issued the B form to TD SC cell president Raju, a non-local as far as Madakasira is concerned. Protests with the Telugu Desam started almost the moment the choice of candidate became public. TD cadres from Madakasira held a meeting at Gudibanda and started criticising Chandrababu Naidu and Lokesh for going back on their word. The went on to burn flexi posters of the two top leaders, accusing them of selling the ticket. We have been with the Telugu Desam Party since 1983. We had always been ready to drink even poison if Naidu had offered it to us for a worthy cause, observed a senior leader from Amarapuram. He made it clear that party workers will not at all support a non-local candidate with a history of corruption. Another leader from Gudibanda said Dr. Sunil Kumar had spent a huge amount of money in campaigning on behalf of the Telugu Desam Party. In addition, for the past five years, he has been protecting party cadres from the onslaught of the ruling YSRC leaders, the leader pointed out. The assembled TD leaders declared that Dr. Sunil Kumar will file his nomination as an independent candidate from the Madakasira SC constituency after leading a huge procession on Monday. Analysts say the TD high command has unnecessarily caused a massive damage to itself by its hasty decision of insulting a young doctor. They pointed out that the Congress candidate from the constituency is Dr. Sudhakar, also a medico, who has the backing of AICC member N. Raghuveera Reddy. What could have been a win for TDP is now going to help parties that the NDA alliance is opposing at the state and national levels, the analysts remarked.

Tragic Deaths in Anantapur District

Anantapur: A woman and her three children were found deceased in Galiveedu mandal of Annamayya district following a domestic dispute. The deceased have been identified as Vemula Nagamani, 30, and her children Navyasri, 10, Dinesh, 6, and Jahnavi, 3. Police are investigating the incident. According to initial reports, there was a disagreement between Nagamani and her husband, Vemula Vikram, on Friday evening. The cause of the deaths is under investigation.

Anantapur SP calls for special vigil on border check posts

Anantapur police rescue B.Tech student from suicide bid

Anantapur police rescue B.Tech student from suicide bid - The Hindu

Anantapur police rescue B.Tech student from suicide bid The Hindu

Hyderabad IT employees, TDP cadres celebrate Naidus 74th birthday

Amaravati: Telugu Desam Party (TDP) national President N. Chandrababu Naidu had a grand birthday celebration by party cadres across the state, as he turned 74 on Saturday. The former Chief Minister, who is campaigning for next months elections in Anantapur district, celebrated his birthday in the Rayadurg constituency. He cut a cake along with a Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

TDP MLA Balayya files nomination from Hindupur

Anantapur: Aiming for a hat-trick win from Hindupur constituency, film star and sitting MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna of Telugu Desam filed his nomination from the Hindupur Assembly segment on Friday. Balakrishna is aiming for a victory for the third consecutive time from Hindupur, a home turf of TD founder and late Chief Minister N.T. Rama Rao's family since 1985. Before filing his nomination, Balakrishna offered pooja at the historic Lord Hanuman temple at Sugur, on the outskirts of the Hindupur town. Accompanied by Hindupur Lok Sabha TD candidate B.K. Parthasarathi, he then proceeded to tahasildar office with a huge rally. Party leaders and cadres from Hindupur area gathered in large numbers. Meanwhile, a total of 18 nominations were received in seven Assembly segments of Satya Sai district on Friday. Madakasira TD candidate Sunil Kumar, Kadiri YSRC candidate Maqbul, TD candidate Kandikunta Prasad, Rapthadu YSRC candidate T Prakash Reddy and others filed their nominations. In Kadapa district, sitting MP YS Avinash Reddy filed his nomination papers for Kadapa Lok Sabha segment at Kadapa collectorate on Friday. A total of 14 nominations received from Kadapa district.

Jagan is a traitor of Rayalaseema: Naidu

VIJAYAWADA: TDP national president N Chandrababu Naidu criticised Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy for miserably failing to provide basic amenities to the people of Andhra Pradesh. Speaking at Praja Galam meetings held at Rayadurgam and Alur in Anantapur and Kurnool districts respectively, Naidu lashed at YSRC for not supplying water to agricultural fields, not providing jobs to the youth, and not laying roads in rural areas. I came here to assure people that the NDA alliance will provide all facilities to the public, he added. Calling Jagan a traitor of Rayalaseema for doing nothing for the region, Naidu highlighted the increase of prices of essential commodities, cement, sand, and iron during the regime of Jagan. Further, the people of Andhra Pradesh are facing an extra burden of Rs 1 lakh every year because of the increased petrol and diesel prices, he added. The TDP chief reiterated that if he wins the upcoming elections, he will increase the old age pension to Rs 4,000 from the present Rs 3,000 and will disburse the increased amount from April itself. Naidu also slammed Jagan for using his power for personal gains. Jagan is behaving like he wants everyone in the State to be his slaves. Power is an opportunity given to serve the people. There should be accountability. With ego, Jagan has misused this power, he alleged. Stating that Jagan has looted the State and its people by increasing alcohol prices, Naidu slammed the CM for deceiving the public in the name of prohibition of alcohol in AP. Highlighting the alarming Rs 13 lakh crore of debt on the State, he said, This election is crucial. It will change the future of the people and the State. We need the support of the Centre. This is the reason why TDP, JSP, and BJP teamed up.

Govt failed to complete irrigation projects in Rayalaseema, says Naidu

Kurnool, Anantapur: Telugu Desam chief Nara Chandrababu Naidu has accused Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy of failure to complete any irrigation project in Rayalaseema, despite his big promises. Naidu criticised the CM's style of governance, labeling him the 'J-Gun Reddy' for his alleged acts of mismanagement. Despite winning power, Jagan Mohan Reddy is allegedly dismantling systems and neglecting the poor by not settling the pending Aarogyasri bills. If elected, I pledge to clear all pending bills for sarpanchs and allocate funds for all schemes, Naidu said while addressing the public during TDs Prajagalam in Alur on Friday. The TD chief highlighted the state's mounting debt of Rs 13 lakh crore and lamented the irregular salary payments. He assured the people he would to steer the state towards development with central governments cooperation and raise the lifestyles of all. Naidu affirmed the Telugu Desam's legacy of empowering individuals from the middle and lower-middle classes and assured the Madasi Kuruba community of Scheduled Tribe status. He emphasised that the upcoming elections were crucial in shaping the people's future. The former CM urged voters to keep Jagan Mohan Reddy out of the state for the next five years by voting the TD to power. The alliance's goal is to develop the state and support the youth during challenging times, with assistance from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He promised to issue the Mega DSC notification soon after assuring power. Naidu explained the importance of minority support for the alliance, and affirmed the Telugu Desam's commitment to their progress. He encouraged village and ward volunteers to unite with the Telugu Desam, promising them a bright future and a monthly payment of `10,000 upon TD assuming power. Local LS candidate B. Nagaraju, Assembly candidate B. Veerabhadra Gowd, TD parliament segment in-charge P. Thikka Reddy and others attended the event. At the road show in Kanekal of Rayadurg Assembly segment in Anantapur district, Naidu made it clear that the TD and its allies BJP and JS - are never against Muslims. The YSRC and its media were passing critical comments against TD and are branding the party as anti-Muslim, he said. The YSRC did nothing for welfare of Muslims, BCs and other sections for the past few years, Naidu alleged. TD candidate Kalava Sreenivasulu and several other leaders were present. Naidu was staying in Rayadurg segment on Friday night.

Dynasties: Children of Senior Politicians Testing Luck in AP Elections

Vijayawada: More than 30 political heirs are testing their fortunes in the 2024 polls under the banner of various parties in Andhra Pradesh. Leading the pack are Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, Nara Lokesh and Daggubati Purandeswari. They span parties like the YSRC, Telugu Desam, Congress, Jana Sena and BJP. Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy continuing the legacy of his father Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy, his uncle Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy and his mother Y.S. Vijayalakshmi who won the Pulivendula MLA seat, is contesting from Pulivendula for the third time. TD chief Chandrababu's son Nara Lokesh entered the ring once again in Mangalagiri of Guntur district. Lokesh lost to YSRC candidate Alla Ramakrishna Reddy in the last election. Political heiress Murugudu Lavanya, daughter of former MLA Kandru Kamala and daughter-in-law of former MLA Murugudu Hanumantha Rao, is contesting the polls on behalf of YSRC against Lokesh. Sirisha, daughter of former MLA Gauthu Shyamsundara Shivaji, is contesting under the TD banner from Palasa in Srikakulam district. In Rajam, former TD MLA Tale Bhadraiah's son Dr Rajesh is making his political debut on behalf of YSRC. Former Union Minister Pusapati Ashok Gajapathiraju's daughter Aditi is contesting on behalf of TD in Vizianagaram, which was earlier won by Ashok twice and one time by Vijayarama Gajapathi. JC Asmit Reddy, son of former MLA JC Prabhakar Reddy, is contesting on behalf of TD in Tadipatri of Anantapur district, a seat that was won by Prabhakar Reddy one time and JC Diwakar Reddy six times. Tenali has two political successors in the ring. Former chief minister Nadendla Bhaskara Rao's son Nadendla Manohar is contesting on behalf of the Jana Sena. Annabatuni Sivakumar, son of former minister Annabatuni Satyanarayana, is contesting for the YSRC. Manohar won the Tenali seat twice and his father Bhaskar Rao one time. Similarly, Siva Kumar won the seat in the 2019 elections and his father Satyanarayana won this seat two times. Two-times Guntur East MLA Md Mustafa has pressed his daughter Noori Fathima into the poll fray. Putta Pratap Reddy, son of former MLA Putta Narasimha Reddy is contesting the elections from Kamalapuram, Kadapa district. Ravindranath Reddy, uncle of chief minister Jagan Reddy, is contesting here on behalf of YSRC. In Pedana of Krishna district, former minister Kagita Venkata Rao's son Krishnaprasad is contesting as TD nominee. Uppala Ramu, son of YSRC's late senior leader Uppala Ram Prasad, is in the fray on behalf of YSRC. In Machilipatnam, MLA Perni Nani's son Perni Kittu is contesting on behalf of the YSRC, while ex-minister Nadakuditi Narasimha Rao's son-in-law and ex-minister Kollu Ravindra is contesting from TD. Varla Kumar Raja, son of TD senior leader Varla Ramaiah, is contesting the Pamarru MLA seat. Yanamala Ramakrishnadu's daughter Yanamala Divya is contesting in Tuni on a TD ticket in the Eluru parliamentary constituency. Minister Karumuri Nageswara Raos son Sunil is contesting the polls from the YSRC and TD leader Putta Sudhakar Yadav's son Putta Mahesh is in Eluru LS fray. Sudhakar Yadav is contesting from Maidukuru. In Kurnool, former MP TG Venkatesh's son TG Bharat is the TD nominee. Former deputy CM KE Krishnamurthy's son KE Shyambabu is contesting from TD in Pattikonda. Former MP Mekapati Rajamohan Reddy's son Mekapati Vikram Reddy is contesting from YSRC in Atmakur. Bojjala Sudhir Reddy, son of former minister Bojjala Gopalakrishna Reddy, is in the fray in Srikalahasti. Mohit Reddy, son of current YSRC MLA Chevireddy Bhaskara Reddy, is in the field in Chandragiri. In Tirupati, Bhumana Abhinay Reddy, son of current MLA Bhumana Karunakar Reddy, is fighting the polls.

Lok Sabha Polls: 20 File Nominations in Kadapa and Anantapur

Anantapur: At least 20 nominations were filed by candidates of political parties in Kadapa and Anantapur districts on the first day on Thursday. Among them, Kadapa Lok Sabha candidates of the YSRC, Mithun Reddy, TD candidate C Bhupesh Reddy, Jammalamadugu BJP candidate Adinarayana Reddy, Mydukur YSRC candidate Raghurami Reddy, Uravakonda TD candidate Payyavula Kesav, Anantapur urban YSRC candidate Ananta Venkatrami Reddy and several independents and other parties filed their nominations on Thursday. As candidates felt this was an auspicious day, a majority of them filed their nominations though their spouses and family members and they are planning to file another set of nominations alongside a huge rally on other days. Sources said the first nomination was filed in the state in the name of Uravakonda assembly TD candidate Payyavula Kesav by his wife at the Tahasildar office of Uravakonda in the district.

Tension flares in Anantapur after clash between YSRCP, TDP cadres

No mention of YS Viveka case during campaign: Kadapa court tells parties

ANANTAPUR : A Kadapa district court on Thursday issued ad-interim injunction and instructed leaders of the Opposition not to make any mention of the Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy murder case now with the CBI court during the ongoing election campaign. This followed a petition by YSRC Kadapa district president K. Suresh Babu. The Opposition parties including APCC chief Y.S. Sharmila and Vivekananda Reddys daughter Dr Suneetha Nareddy along with TD, JS and BJP leaders were blaming and defaming Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy and Kadapa MP Y.S. Avinash Reddy, by citing this case, the petitioner complained. Kadapa Principal District Judge G. Sreedevi issued the ad-interim injunction orders. The YSRC leader, in his petition, mentioned seven persons N. Chandrababu Naidu and Nara Lokesh of the TD, Pawan Kalyan of the Jana Sena, APCC chief Y.S. Sharmila, Vivekananda Reddys daughter Dr Narreddy Suneetha, BJP state chief D. Purandeswari and Pulivendula TD candidate Ravindranath Reddy (B. Tech Ravi) who were accusing even the CM though he was in no way connected to the case. The court emphasised that such accusations were prejudicial to the ongoing legal proceedings and violated the fundamental principles of justice. The court's decision followed an analysis of the documents filed by the petitioners/plaintiffs, particularly videos and newspaper cuttings from social media platforms, print and electronic media. It was observed unsubstantiated claims were being made on Avinash Reddy's alleged involvement in the murder of his uncle Vivekananda Reddy, and there were accusations of the Chief Minister shielding him. This court is of considered opinion that when a case is pending before a competent court for adjudication, no one is entitled to step into the shoes of the court with no authorisation and give their verdict and term any of the persons so involved in such case as murderer/guilty person according to their whims and fancies. the court stated. The court highlighted concerns regarding the interference of political parties and media in legal matters, stating that they have assumed the role of a 'public court' (janata adalat), thereby jeopardising the presumption of innocence until proven guilty and the principle of 'guilt beyond reasonable doubt'. The court warned against the dangers of media trials and underscored the importance of upholding the integrity of the justice system. As the Vivekananda Reddy murder case is pending before the CBI court in Nampally, the Kadapa district court restrained any propagation labelling Avinash Reddy as the murderer of his uncle and any assertions regarding Jagan Mohan Reddy shielding him through any medium, including print, electronic, and social media platforms. The respondents/defendants were directed to remove objectionable remarks made against the YSRC, Jagan Mohan Reddy and Avinash Reddy from electronic and social media platforms immediately. They were also instructed to refrain from personal attacks or criticisms based on allegations or distortions regarding pending cases in competent courts of law, adhering strictly to the prevailing Election Code of Conduct in AP as issued by the Election Commission. This ad-interim injunction will remain in force until April 30.

Relief From Heat Wave Forecast for AP

VISAKHAPATNAM : Thunderstorms lashed Anantapur and surrounding areas on Thursday, giving a temporary respite from the heat wave, which had been tormenting people of the state for the past three days. According to an IMD Amaravati report issued on Thursday, thunderstorms accompanied with lightning and gusty winds with speed of 3040 kmph are likely at isolated places over north coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, south coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema. Hot, humid and uncomfortable weather is also likely in these areas till April 22. As per the IMD, hot conditions will continue to prevail in the state. But the departure from maximum temperature will be just one or two degrees Celsius. On Thursday, Nandyal recorded the highest temperature of 44. 7 degrees Celsius, with departure of 4.2 degrees Celsius, followed by Anantapur 42.7 degrees with departure of 3.2 degrees, Kurnool 44.6 with departure of 3.9 degrees, Tirupati 42.8 degrees with departure of 3.6 degrees and Nandigam 42.2 degrees Celsius with a departure of 3.2 degrees.

APCC Chief targets Naidu and CM for not completing HNSS works in combined Anantapur district

Sharmila criticizes Naidu, Jagan for HNSS project delay, unfulfilled promises, lack of industrial growth, urges support for Congress. Viveka's daughter campaigns for Sharmila in Pulivendula, seeking votes against YSRCP candidates linked to her father's murder.

Kodandarama Brahmotsavam Starts with Dhwajarohanam at Vontimitta

Anantapur : The annual Brahmotsavam started on a grand scale at the ancient Sri Kodanda Ramalayam in Vontimitta on Wednesday with the traditional Dwajarohanam ceremony. Amid priests chanting the sacred Pancharatra Agama Vedic mantras, the Dhwajapatam bearing the emblem of Lord Garuda got hoisted atop the golden flag post inside the Ramalayam during the sacred Mithuna Lagnam time. Priests through their melodious renditions of Ragas and Talas invoked various deities, including Asta Dikpalakas, Vishwaksena and Panchabhutas, to grace the religious event. Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) joint executive officer V. Veerabrahmam said elaborate arrangements have been made for offering Annaprasadam, buttermilk and water to devotees in coordination with the district administration. Veerabrahmam explained that TTD will serve delicious breakfast prasadam at 7 a.m., followed by a full meal with rice, sambar, rasam, buttermilk, curry and sweet pongal from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The meal will be served again from 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. German sheds and coolers have been arranged on the premises to protect devotees from the scorching sun. Arrangements are underway for the celestial Sita Rama Kalyanam on April 22 between 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Executive engineer Krishna Reddy, deputy executive officers Natesh Babu and Siva Prasad, and other officials, archakas and devotees were present.

Kadapa MP Avinash Defends Self in Vivekas Murder

Anantapur: Kadapa MP Y.S. Avinash Reddy on Tuesday made it clear that he is not involved in any criminal activity related to the murder of former MP Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy. I rushed to the spot only after receiving a phone call from Sivaprakash Reddy, brother-in-law of Vivekananda Reddy, he underlined. Addressing a press conference in Kadapa, Avinash said he had remained silent during the past few days even though APCC president Y.S. Sharmila and Dr. N. Sunitha, daughter of Vivekananda, kept targeting him. He maintained that he is now talking about the case, as evidence is being fabricated against him. The MP pointed out that Vivekananda Reddy had campaigned for him a day before he had been murdered. He disclosed that the murdered former MP had wanted to do justice for his second family by selling his properties diamonds and immovable assets. He made it clear that he has faith in the judiciary and will come out clean, as he has no role in the case at any level.

Former top cops and civil servants turn to Andhra Politics in upcoming elections

VV Lakshminarayana Vasagiri Venkata Lakshminarayana, popularly known as JD Lakshmi Narayana, is a retired police officer, who served as joint director of CBI before taking voluntary retirement. He has led investigation in high-profile cases such as the Obulapuram Mining Company scandal, YS Jagan Mohan Reddys disproportionate assets case and Satyam scandal. After taking a plunge into politics, he joined the Jana Sena Party and unsuccessfully contested the Visakhapatnam Lok Sabha seat in 2019. He left the JSP in 2020 and launched his political outfit Jai Bharat National Party in December-2023. He will contest the Vizag North Assembly seat Audimulapu Suresh A former civil servant, Suresh has a doctorate in Computer Science Engineering. He was selected for Indian Railway Accounts Service in 1989 and held different posts. After serving as a bureaucrat for 20 years, he took VRS in 2009 and joined the Congress. He successfully contested from Yerragondapalem. In 2014, he switched over to the YSRC and won the Santhanutalapadum Assembly seat. In 2019, he won from Yerragondapalem again and was inducted into Jagans cabinet. Now, he will be contesting the Kondepi Assembly constituency in Prakasam AMD Imtiaz A senior IAS officer, Imtiaz took voluntary retirement from service and joined the YSRC recently. He is set to contest the Kurnool Assembly constituency. A native of Kurnool, Imtiaz has served in different capacities. He has worked as Krishna district collector and special secretary for Department of Minority Welfare. He was working as additional chief commissioner of land administration before taking VRS Velagapalli Varaprasada Rao An IAS officer of the 1983 batch of Tamil Nadu cadre, Rao took voluntary retirement to enter politics in 2009. A native of Krishna district in Andhra Pradesh, he joined the Praja Rajyam Party and contested the Tirupati Lok Sabha constituency, but lost. Later, he joined YSRC. In 2014, he successfully contested the Tirupati Parliament seat on YSRC ticket. In 2019, he won the Gudur Assembly seat. On being denied a ticket, he joined the BJP. He will once again contest the Tirupati Lok Sabha segment Deva Varaprasad A retired IAS officer, who has worked in various departments of Andhra Pradesh, Varaprasad joined the Jana Sena Party in June-2022. A native of Dindi village, he was nominated for Razole Assembly constituency. He has served in different capacities for 30 years and retired as secretary-level officer. Known as a sincere and honest officer, Varaprasad has been active in the JSP and strived for the success of the Jana Vani programme Talari Rangaiah A Group-1 officer, Rangaiah took voluntary retirement from service to join politics. A double postgraduate, Rangaiah belongs to the Boya (Valmiki) community. He became prominent among people while serving as project director of different departments. He was serving as the additional director of Handloom and Textile department when he took VRS in 2017 and joined the YSRC in 2018. He won the Anantapur Lok Sabha constituency in 2019 with a margin of one lakh votes. This time, YSRC president and Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has decided to field him from Kalyandurg Assembly constituency T Krishna Prasad A retired IPS officer of the 1986 batch, Krishna Prasad was chairman of the Road Safety Authority of Telangana. An alumni of NIT Warangal and IIM Ahmedabad, he joined the BJP two years ago and aspired to contest from Telangana in the general elections. However, he was roped in by the TDP, an NDA partner, for the Bapatla Lok Sabha segment in Andhra Pradesh

Andhra: Speeding Car Hits Biker, Travels 18 Km With Rider's Body on Roof In Anantapur

The driver of the car continued for approximately 18 kilometres without stopping, eventually coming to a halt at Hanimireddypalli before fleeing the scene

Severe heatwave likely to hit 63 mandals of AP today

VISAKHAPATNAM : The prevailing hot weather conditions across the State are likely to persist, with a heatwave expected to be recorded for the next three days. According to the India Meteorological Department Amaravati Centre forecast, isolated places in North Coastal AP (NCAP), Yanam, and South Coastal AP (SCAP) are likely to experience heatwave conditions, while Rayalaseema may face hot, humid, and discomforting weather. The Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) has identified 63 mandals, including three in Alluri Sitarama Raju, four in Anakapalle, two in East Godavari, one in Eluru, three in Kakinada, 13 in Parvathipuram-Manyam, 15 in Srikakulam, and 22 in Vizianagaram, are likely to record severe heatwave conditions. Additionally, 130 mandals are expected to experience heatwave conditions. As many as 38 mandals recorded severe heatwaves and 75 mandals recorded heatwaves on Monday. Nandyal recorded the highest maximum temperature of 43 degrees Celsius, followed by Kurnool at 41.8 degrees Celsius, Nandigama at 40.8, Jangamaheshwarapuram at 40.6, Tirupati and Kadapa at 40.4, and Anantapur at 40.3 degrees Celsius. IMD forecasts above-normal southwest monsoon The IMD has released its long-range forecast for the southwest monsoon, predicting above-normal rainfall for Andhra Pradesh from June to September. This forecast attributes the anticipated rainfall to moderate El Nio conditions currently prevailing over the equatorial Pacific region. Climate models suggest a transition to neutral conditions at the beginning of the monsoon season, followed by La Nia conditions in second half of the season. Nandyal records highest temp of 43C As many as 38 mandals recorded severe heatwaves and 75 mandals recorded heatwaves on Monday. Nandyal recorded the highest temperature of 43C, followed by Kurnool at 41.8, Nandigama at 40.8, Jangamaheshwarapuram at 40.6, Tirupati at 40.4C

AP: SUV carries mans body on top for 18 kilometers

ANANTAPUR : In a shocking incident, an SUV reportedly hit a man and carried the body on its roof for at least 18 km in Anantapur district late Sunday night. The driver of the SUV drove with the body on the vehicle till passersby raised an alarm. According to Atmakur SI Muneer Ahmed, the victim, J Erraswamy of Cholasamudram village in Kuderu mandal, visited his in-laws house on Sunday and was returning home on his two-wheeler when a speeding Innova vehicle coming in the opposite direction reportedly hit his bike. With the impact of the collision, Erraswamy flung into the air and fell on the vehicle top. However, the SUV driver did not stop and continued to travel 18 km. When the vehicle reached Hanimireddi Palli in Beluguppa mandal, passersby alerted the SUV driver about the body on his vehicle. A case has been registered and manhunt underway to find accused at large.

Seven-year-old Rescued After Getting Stuck Between Walls

Anantapur: A swift response from Tadipatri rural police and the fire department saved a seven-year-old girl, who was trapped between walls in in Avula Thippapalli village of Anantapur district on Monday. Avanthika, playing with friends, got stuck in a narrow gap between two houses, reportedly due to construction constraints related to vastu. Villagers alerted authorities after they were unable to free her themselves. The Tadipatri rural circle inspector, Laksmikantha Reddy, along with fire department inspector Mohan Babu and their teams, rushed to the scene upon receiving the call. Initial attempts to extricate Avanthika proved unsuccessful. Faced with this challenge, the rescue teams made the difficult decision to break a small section of a nearby wall. Thankfully, this approach proved successful, and Avanthika was safely pulled out from the gap. Medical personnel provided immediate care to Avanthika before reuniting her with her relieved parents, Bhagya Lakshmi and Nagaraju. Villagers expressed their appreciation for the swift and decisive actions of the police and fire department personnel. Anantapur district SP Amith Bardar commended the rescue teams for their professionalism and dedication in freeing Avanthika's safely.

Vontimitta Brahmotsavams begin on April 16 with more preparations

Anantapur: The stage is set for the grand Sri Rama Navami Brahmotsavam celebrations at the Lord Kodandarama Swamy temple in Vontimitta, commencing Tuesday. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has pulled out all the stops for this years festivities. The temple premises and surrounding Mada Streets have been adorned with vibrant decorations, creating an atmosphere of devotion. TTD has implemented several improvements based on insights from previous years' Brahmotsavams. To ensure a comfortable experience for devotees, a state-of-the-art shed with German technology has been erected in front of the Ramalayam. TTD has also set up Annadanam counters to provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the festivities. Expert cooks and teams from Tirumala have been specifically deputed to prepare the 'anna prasadam' for the devotees. Following feedback from last year, TTD and the Kadapa district administration have taken joint initiatives to address shortcomings, particularly at the Kalyana Vedika of Lord Kodandarama Swamy. This year, meticulous arrangements have been made to ensure a smooth and seamless experience for devotees attending the celestial wedding ceremony scheduled for April 22 night. Additional infrastructure upgrades include a dedicated kitchen to prepare prasadam specifically for the Kalyanotsavam. For the convenience of devotees, underground electricity supply, a separate sump for drinking water, and a new road leading from the railway station to the Kalyana Mandapam have all been established.

Karnataka-Andhra railway line stalled

The Rayadurg-Tumakuru project aims to provide an alternative train route from Bengaluru to Guntakal and Ballari. Presently, due to heavy train movement on the Bengaluru-Anantapur-Guntakal route, some trains take a detour around Ballari.

Vijayamma Leaves for US Amid Turf War Within YSR Family

Anantapur: With no possibility of any reconciliation between her two children Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy and APCC president Y.S. Sharmila Vijayamma, spouse of late chief minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy, has left for the US to be with her grandson. Her departure comes when the bitterness within the YSR family has peaked ahead of the forthcoming assembly and Lok Sabha general elections in Andhra Pradesh. The division within the family has come in the wake of the murder of Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy and the case has dragged on through the full term of Jagan Mohan Reddys rule. On one side are APCC chief Sharmila and Vivekanandas daughter Dr. Sunita, who are critical of the AP Chief Minister for not using his good offices in resolving the case. They are doubly upset that Jagan Mohan Reddy has gone on to give the YSRC ticket from Kadapa Lok Sabha constituency to Y.S. Avinash Reddy, sitting MP from Kadapa, who is one of the accused in the Vivekananda Reddy murder case. Presently, Avinash Reddys father Y.S. Bhaskar Reddy is in judicial custody in the murder case, while Avinash Reddy is on bail, facing charges of playing a role in Vivekanandas murder for political gain. Vijayamma had been under tremendous pressure as on one side her son and CM Jagan Mohan Reddy is contesting from Pulivendula , while her daughter Sharmila is heading the Congress party in AP, which is fighting against Jagans rule. Moreover, Sharmila is also contesting from the Kadapa Lok Sabha constituency against her cousin and sitting MP Avinash Reddy. Pulivendula is part of the Kadapa parliament seat. Vijayamma had offered prayers for both Jagan Mohan Reddy and Sharmila at the YSR Ghat in Idupulapaya when they launched their election campaigns from there. While Sharmila and Sunitha are targeting Avinash Reddy unequivocally asking voters not to elect those involved in criminal activities to Lok Sabha, their aunt and sister of late CM Rajasekhar Reddy Vimala Reddy has pulled up the cousin sisters for tarnishing the image of YSR family and campaigning against their younger brother Avinash. The fight within the YSR family has raised the hopes of Telugu Desam, which is hoping to benefit from division of votes within the Chief Ministers family.

Kadapa Police Develop AI tool to Scan Through Data on Polls

Anantapur : The Kadapa police have developed an Artificial Intelligence tool titled Election Mitra ( www.electionmitra.in ) to provide assistance at all levels to the ongoing election process. Kadapa SP, Siddarth Kaushal, who initiated the efforts to make use of AI for the general elections won praise from the Election Commission. Those seeking information on the poll process would zero in on it from the thousands of pages of election related literature in a fast, user-friendly and authentic manner. It would allow them to interact with the database in natural human language, the SP claimed here on Sunday. The AI tool scans information contained in more than 25,750 pages of source literature in the form of election manuals, handbooks, compendiums, circulars, press notes, notifications, MCC code etc. It also incorporates aspects like the various major criminal laws (IPC,CrPC, IEA etc.), the AP Police Manual and draft SOPs for police investigation. The proposal for such an AI based tool was first mooted in the review meeting conducted by the ECI with district election officers and district superintendents of police on Jan 9. The Kadapa SP developed the tool. It is not possible for officials engaged in election duty to remember all election-related information. The ElectionMitra tool helps one obtain any required information any time from this database. Users with authenticated login credentials can access the tool via a web portal, which is both desktop and mobile friendly. Users can simply start asking questions in natural human language and the system will generate responses based on the data that it has, the SP explained. The tool can be useful to officials engaged in election management like returning officers, police officers, election observers, senior district level officers, various nodal officers for different election related functions, legal advisers etc. Data protection and Data sovereignty: Unlike other AI-based tools, all data processing of ElectionMitra is done in India-based servers and at no point does the user data leave Indian jurisdiction, unlike chat GPT, Copilot etc. This has been developed by Kadapa district police in collaboration with Eva Daytechmercial, a Hyderabad-based startup funded by the Union Department of Science & Technology & Meta Corporation that owns Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp etc.

Fire mishap at warehouse in Anantapur

Fire mishap at warehouse in Anantapur - The Hindu

Fire mishap at warehouse in Anantapur The Hindu

Anantapur: Real womens empowerment

In the erstwhile undivided Anantapur district, which has Anantapur and Hindupur Lok Sabha constituencies and 14 Assembly segments, as many as seven women candidates are in the election fray from the YSRC and the TDP-JSP-BJP alliance. Anantapur also happens to be fielding the highest number of women candidates in the 2024 elections, resulting in political empowerment Paritala Sunitha Former minister and senior TDP leader is contesting from Raptadu Assembly constituency. She became an MLA for the first time in 2005 byelection, following the assassination of her husband Paritala Ravi. Later, she successfully contested from Penukonda in 2009 and 2014 elections Palle Sindhura Reddy TDP candidate from Puttaparthi Assembly constituency is the daughter-in-law of former minister Palle Raghunath Reddy. A Postgraduate in Nanotechnology from Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, she is the daughter of an former DGP of Kerala. She is married to Palle Venkata Krishna Kishore Reddy Bandaru Sravani Sree TDP candidate from Singanala Assembly constituency is a Postgraduate in Journalism. She joined the TDP in 2015. She contested for the first time from Singanamala Assembly constituency in 2019, but lost the election S Savitha S Savitha She is the TDP candidate from Penukonda. She belongs to the Kuruba community, which is one of the dominant castes in Anantapur district. She is the organising secretary of TDP, and is engaged in social work through her SRR Charitable Trust. She hails from a political family and her father S Ramachandra Reddy was a minister in NT Rama Raos cabinet Joladarasi Shantamma YSRC candidate for Hindupur Lok Sabha seat, is a former MP from Bellary in Karnataka. She had contested that seat on BJP ticket. A couple of months ago, she joined YSRC in the presence of Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, who later named her the MP candidate of Hindupur Joladarasi Shantamma KV Ushashri Charan The Minister for Women and Child Welfare, is an incumbent from Kalyandurgam Assembly constituency. A Postgraduate in Environmental Science, she is currently pursuing her PhD at Sri Krishnadevaraya University. On the directions of YSRC chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, she is contesting the elections from Penukonda Assembly constituency Deepika Venu Reddy YSRC candidate from Hindupur Assembly constituency is a Postgraduate in Computer Science. She worked as a faculty member at Bangalore University. She is contesting the election for the first time. Her husband Venu Reddy has been active in the Congress since 2003. He joined YSRC at the inception of the party Deepika Venu Reddy

Balayya Launches Bus Yatra

Anantapur : Film star and Hindupur MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna kick started his Cycle Ravali Bus Yatra for the forthcoming assembly and Lok Sabha elections in the state by first performing pooja at Lord Narasimha Swamy Temple in Kadiri. Addressing a public meeting in the town on the occasion, Balayya came down heavily on Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy over poor development in the Rayalaseema region. He cautioned people against falling into the YSRC chiefs trap once again. The Hindupur MLA observed that all systems have collapsed under Jagan Mohan Reddys rule. He said though many projects and developmental activities had been taken up during TD regime of both NTR and Chandrababu Naidu, YSRC has neglected them all. Balakrishna cautioned that the state will adversely suffer if another chance is given to YSRC. He pointed out that middle class and weaker sections are finding it difficult to eke out a decent living. On the first day of his yatra, the film star covered Kadiri, Puttaparthi and Anantapur assembly segments. He will campaign in Singanamala and Tadipatri constituencies in Anantapur district on Sunday.

Heat wave over AP to resume tomorrow

VISAKHAPATNAM : After a brief lull, the heatwave in Andhra Pradesh is likely to revive itself from April 15. India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday predicted a fresh spell of heatwave conditions over isolated parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh (CAP) and Yanam for three days, beginning Monday, April 15. Heatwave will continue to prevail over Srikakulam, Manyam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, ASR, Anakapalli, Kakinada and East Godavari districts till April 17. Maximum temperature in parts of CAP is expected to be over 42 degrees Celsius. Rayalaseema region in the state will experience hot, humid and uncomfortable weather during the same period. On Saturday, April 13, Anantapur and Nandyal in Rayalaseema recorded the highest maximum temperature of 40.4 degree Celsius. Weather office said rainfall occurred at one or two places over CAP, while dry weather prevailed over Rayalaseema on Saturday. The first heatwave conditions over AP started on April 4 and continued till April 7, providing some respite from April 8.

Heat Wave to Resume from April 15

Visakhapatnam: After a brief lull, the heat wave is likely to revive from April 15. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday predicted a fresh spell of heat wave conditions over isolated parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh (CAP) and Yanam for three days, beginning from Monday (April 15). Maximum temperature in parts of the CAP is expected to be over 42 degrees Celsius. The Rayalaseema region in the state will experience hot, humid and uncomfortable weather during the same period. On Saturday (April 13), the highest maximum temperature of 40.4 degree Celsius was recorded at Anantapur and Nandyal in Rayalaseema. The weathermen said rainfall occurred at one or two places over CAP and dry weather prevailed over Rayalaseema on Saturday. The IMD predicted that heat wave conditions are most likely to prevail over Srikakulam, Manyam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, ASR, Anakapalle, Kakinada and East Godavari districts from April 15 to 17. Andhra Pradesh has seen this seasons first heat wave conditions on April 4 and it continued till April 7. There was some respite from April 8.

Balayya to Launch 'Cycle Ravali' Bus Yatra from Kadiri Tomorrow

Anantapur: Film star and Hindupur TD MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna is scheduled to launch his Cycle Ravali Bus Yatra across the state from Friday, April 12. Party sources said Balakrishna, who is contesting from Hindupur assembly segment for the third time, is targeting a hat trick of victories from Hindupur, which has been the home turf of NTR family since 1985. The super star will campaign for candidates of Telugu Desam and allied parties across several parts of the state. Balayya will offer poojas at Lord Narasimha Swamy Temple in Kadiri town of Satya Sai district on Friday before starting on his Cycle Ravali Bus Yatra. He will cover Kadiri, Puttaparthi and Anantapur assembly segments on April 12. The next day, he will campaign in Singanamala and Tadipatri assembly constituencies of Anantapur district. The film star will enter Nandyal district at Banaganapalli on April 14 and tour Allagadda and Nandyal assembly segments. The yatra will enter the Panyam assembly constituency on April 15 and cover Nandikotkur and Kurnool segments in Kurnool district on the same day. On April 16, Balakrishnas bus yatra will enter Kodumur assembly constituency and cover the mandal headquarters and major towns of Kodumur, Yemmiganur and Mantralayam. He will continue his yatra in Pattikonda and Alur in Kurnool district and enter Rayadurg of Anantapur district on April 17.

Former IGP, YSRC MLC Iqbal Joins TDP

Anantapur : Former IGP of Rayalaseema Md. Iqbal, who has three more years of tenure as a YSRC MLC, resigned as MLC and from the ruling party as well on Wednesday. The same day, he joined the Telugu Desam Party in presence of its chief N. Chandrababu Naidu. Soon after his retirement as IGP, Iqbal had joined YSRC. The ruling party made him in-charge of Hindupur assembly constituency. YSRC went on to field Iqbal as its candidate against sitting MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna in 2019 elections, when many other leaders had been aspiring to contest from Hindupur. Iqbal lost the contest from Hindupur, a constituency that has been a stronghold of TDP from the time of NTR, who got elected thrice from this constituency. However, Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy compensated him by making him an MLC, while retaining him as Hindupur in-charge. Yet, Iqbal faced difficulties from various YSRC leaders within the Hindupur constituency, including APIDC chairman Naveen Nischal. The party high command led by regional coordinator Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy reviewed the situation and nominated K. Deepika as party in-charge of Hindupur assembly constituency. This led to protests from supporters of Iqbal, who decided to shift to Hyderabad and stay away from politics. Thus, his resignation as MLC and from YSRC, and joining Telugu Desam in presence of Chandrababu Naidu has come as a surprise, though Iqbal had blamed Jagan Mohan Reddy for ignoring minorities a couple of days ago. Political analyst Ramana observed that being in police and politics are altogether different. He points out that the political career of another police officer Gorantla Madhav, who had gone on to become an MP, has also come to a halt. It is to be seen how Iqbals move of joining the Telugu Desam is going to help him.

IMD issues weather warnings for Andhra Pradesh

Visakhapatnam : The weather department has warned of uncomfortable weather conditions and potential thunderstorms across Andhra Pradesh and Yanam for the next five days. According to the IMD's Amaravati Meteorological Centre, hot, humid and uncomfortable weather conditions are expected in isolated areas of North Coastal Andhra Pradesh (NCAP), Yanam, South Coastal Andhra Pradesh (SCAP) and Rayalaseema over the next two days, April 10 and 11. Starting from April 12, there is a chance of thunderstorms with lightning at isolated places in these same regions. These thunderstorm conditions are expected to persist for the following three days, April 12 to 14. The forecast indicates the possibility of moderate to heavy showers with thunderstorms in some areas. While maximum temperatures have dropped by about 4 degrees Celsius in the last two days, Rayalaseema districts continue to experience scorching heat. Anantapur recorded the highest temperature of 40.3 degrees C, followed by Nandyal at 40 degrees C. Visakhapatnam recorded the lowest temperature at 35.4. The weather advisory comes after hail storms hit parts of Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday. Severe hailstorm warnings have been issued for 11 mandals, while 134 mandals have been advised to be cautious against hailstorms.

Weather Forecast: Thunderstorms Across Andhra Pradesh, says IMD

IMD said very heavy rainfall would occur in north Telangana on Monday. Nasa also said that cloud top temperatures were as low as -53 degrees Celsius and had potential for heavy rainfall. (Photo: DC/File) IMD said very heavy rainfall would occur in north Telangana on Monday. Nasa also said that cloud top temperatures were as low as -53 degrees Celsius and had potential for heavy rainfall. (Photo: DC/File) Visakhapatnam: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of uncomfortable weather conditions and potential thunderstorms across Andhra Pradesh and Yanam for the next five days. According to the IMD's Amaravati Meteorological Centre, hot, humid, and uncomfortable conditions are expected in isolated areas of North Coastal Andhra Pradesh (NCAP), Yanam, South Coastal Andhra Pradesh (SCAP), and Rayalaseema over the next two days, April 10th and 11th, 2024. Starting from April 12th, there is a chance of thunderstorms with lightning at isolated places in these same regions. These thunderstorm warnings are expected to persist for the following three days, April 12th to 14th. The forecast indicates the possibility of moderate to heavy showers with thunderstorms in some areas. While maximum temperatures have dropped by about four degrees Celsius in the last two days, Rayalaseema districts continue to experience scorching heat. Anantapur recorded the highest temperature of 40.3 degrees Celsius, followed by Nandyal at 40 degrees Celsius. Visakhapatnam recorded the lowest temperature at 35.4 degrees Celsius. The weather advisory comes after severe hailstorms hit parts of Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday. Severe hailstorm warnings have been issued for 11 mandals, while 134 mandals have been advised to be cautious of potential hailstorms.

Balakrishna to Visit Nandyal, Kurnool from April 14

Nandamuri Balakrishna filed his nomination as TD candidate for Hindupur Assembly segment Wednesday. He was spotted at the Hindupur airport on April 16. Kurnool: Telugu Desam leader and Hindupur MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna will tour Nandyal and Kurnool districts from April 14 to 17. He will address the public at various constituency headquarters during his visit. On April 14, he will visit Banaganapalle, Allagadda, and Nandyal; on April 15, Panyam, Nandikotkur, and Kurnool; on April 16, Kodumur, Yemmiganur, and Mantralayam; and on April 17, Pathikonda and Alur. Further, he will enter Rayadurg constituency in Anantapur.

Temporary Respite From Heat Wave in AP Continues

Picture used for representational purpose. (Photo: PTI) Picture used for representational purpose. (Photo: PTI) Visakhapatnam: The temporary respite from the heat wave continued in Rayalaseema and coastal Andhra Pradesh for the second day on Tuesday. People of these two regions were subjected to sizzling heat and heatwave-like conditions for the last one week. The temperatures fell by four degrees on Tuesday. The majority of the locations in the state recorded below 40 degrees Celsius. Anantapur was the hottest in the state on Tuesday with 40.3 C followed by Nandyal at 40 C. The highest departure of 3.9 degree Celsius was in Visakhapatnam where the temperature was 35.4 degrees Celsius. A report from IMD Amaravathi said there would be no heat wave conditions for three to four days in the state but hot, humid and discomfort weather was likely at isolated places over north coastal Andhra Pradesh (NCAP), Yanam, south coastal Andhra Pradesh (SCAP) and Rayalaseema for Wednesday (April 10). The IMD forecast thunderstorms accompanied with lightning likely at isolated places over NCAP and Yanam on Thursday (April 11) and hot humid and uncomfortable weather likely at isolated places over Rayalaseema. The report said thundershower activities may spread to Rayalaseema region and continue for another two days (April 12 and 13) which will abate the hot and sweltering condition. .The IMD attributed the turn in weather to a trough or wind discontinuity from north coastal Andhra Pradesh to south Tamil Nadu.

Devuni Gadapa Witnesses Muslims Women During Ugadi

Anantapur : A large number of Muslim devotees, mostly women, offered traditional offerings to Goddess Nancharamma and Lord Venkateswara Swamy at Devuni Gadapa Temple in Kadapa on occasion of the Ugadi festival on Tuesday. Muslim women from Kadapa and its surrounding offering sari and essential commodities to the Goddess treating her as Beebi Nancharamma, wife of Lord Venkateswara Swamy, is a centuries-old tradition being followed during Ugadi at Devuni Gadapa every year. Sri Lakshmi Venkateswara Temple, bearing the Vijayanagara architecture, witnessed large queues of devotees, mostly Muslim women wearing burquas, waiting patiently with offerings of rice, green gram, jaggery and other essential commodities at the temple. Temple priests offered Archana and Harathi to the Lord with the devotees. According to the legend, the idol of Lord Venkateswara Temple at Devuni Kadapa had been established by Kripacharya. The name Devuni Kadapa finds mention in Puranas as Kripavathi Kshetram. It is said that Tallapaka Annamacharya and Kshetrayya visited this place, apart from all Sankaracharyas of the Advaita Mutt. Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams is administering the temple.

Viveka's murder: SC issues notice to Shivashankar Reddy

YS Vivekananda Reddy. YS Vivekananda Reddy. ANANTAPUR: A bench of the Supreme Court on Monday served notices to Devineni Shivashankar Reddy and others following a petition by Y.S. Vivekananda Reddys daughter Dr Sunitha seeking cancellation of bail granted by the Telangana High Court to him, who was accused in the murder case of her father. She challenged Shivashankars bail plea as he was influencing the witnesses in the case. The hearing was postponed to July 22. Meanwhile, Dastagiri, the approver in the Vivekananda Reddys murder case, lodged a complaint with the State Election Commission against the TD and APCC chief Y.S. Sharmila and Vivekananda Reddys daughter Sunitha alleging that during the election campaign, they were repeatedly making derogatory comments against him in connection with the murder case flouting the ECI guidelines and in the violation of Model Code of Conduct. He said he was contesting in the MLA elections from the Jai Bheem party from Pulivendula. He pleaded with the State Election Commissioner Meena to instruct the parties and leaders not to make any such comments against him again.

Rayalaseema Facing Extreme Heat, Humid Weather

Anantapur: The Rayalaseema region and this district in particular are experiencing high temperatures since the past few days, with hot, humid weather making life miserable. The maximum temperature recorded at 44.5 degree Celsius at Singanamala in Anantapur district was highest in the state for the second consecutive day on Sunday. Heat waves swept through a majority of the mandals of Anantapur, Satya Sai, Kurnool, Kadapa and Nandyal districts on Sunday. The weatherman has warned that the hot climate will continue for five more days. Most of the mandals recorded temperatures of more than 40 degrees, including areas that are generally known for their cool climate along the Karnataka borders and stretches closer to Bengaluru. The Parigi mandal head quarters of Satya Sai district, located closer to Madhugiri taluk, witnessed 43.4 degree C on Sunday. Similarly, Tadipathri town recorded about 44 degree C followed by Putlur and Yellanur with more than 43 degrees. The abnormal rise in mercury levels impacted the Rayalaseema region adversely during the present season. Heat waves are likely at Isolated places over Rayalaseema. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are likely at isolated places in the region on Monday. Hot, humid weather is likely at isolated places in Rayalaseema. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are likely at isolated places over NCAP, Yanam and Rayalaseema for five more days. Hot, humid weather as also thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are likely at isolated places over NCAP and Yanam, SCAP and Rayalaseema, he stated. The hot climate along with poor storage of water in tanks, bunds and canals is causing a drinking water crisis for animals. A leopard reportedly died, likely due to lack of drinking water leading to dehydration in the district a couple of days ago.

Thunderstorms Likely for Ugadi

Visakhapatnam: Parts of Rayalaseema and coastal Andhra Pradesh continued to remain under the grip of heat wave conditions with some places in the state registering above 7 degrees Celsius on Sunday. The temperature rose by 7 degrees C in Kaval where 42.5 degrees was registered on Sunday. IMD warned that heat wave conditions are likely at isolated places over districts of Anantapur, Sri Sathya Sai, Kurnool, Nandyal and YSR Kadapa of Rayalaseema region on Monday. The temperature in north coastal Andhra Pradesh (NCAP) districts is likely to decrease in some places but thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are likely at isolated places over NCAP and Yanam from Monday to Wednesday. Hot, humid and uncomfortable weather is likely at isolated places over south coastal Andhra Pradesh (SCAP). Head of the IMD Amaravati, S Stella, said Anantapur in AP recorded the hottest day (44.5C) on Sunday, followed by Nandyal (43.5C), Jangamaheswarapuram (43.4C), Kurnool (43.3C), Kadapa (42.8C), Tirupati (42.8C) and Kavali (42.4C). The remaining parts of the state recorded the maximum temperatures between 35C and 41C. Anantapur and Kavali experienced severe heat wave conditions on Sunday and the remaining parts in the Rayalaseema and CAP experienced very hot and humid conditions. Though IMD has not issued any forecast of heat waves for Tuesday, hot and humid weather conditions will continue in parts of the Rayalaseema and CAP. IMD said the heat index was around 40-50C at many places of Rayalaseema and coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam on Sunday. Sundays highest minimum temperature of 29.2C was recorded in Kurnool. Visakhapatnam city recorded 33.6 degrees Celsius, 2.1 degrees above normal and Visakhapatnam airport area 38.2, 3.2 degrees above normal. Though Visakhapatnam City recorded 33.6 degrees hot and humid weather, it sent people indoors throughout the day. Even popular resorts wore a deserted look. Ravikamatam in Anakapalli district also recorded 44.5 degrees C and normal life went out of gear in the rural areas. Sources in the ASR district said Lambasinghi, which has the lowest temperature in winter, recorded 38 degrees on Sunday.

Collector, SP hold poll preparedness meet in Anantapur

Top priority should be given to mapping critical polling stations and vulnerable polling centres, says SP Amit Bardar

Anantapur police intensify checks at border checkposts and RTC bus stations ahead of polls

Superintendent of Police Amit Bardar conducts surprise inspection at Kambadur checkpost on the Andhra Pradesh-Karnataka border

AP: CPI Announced Candidates for Lok Sabha Elections

Vijayawada: Communist Party of India (CPI), state secretary K. Ramakrishna released the party candidates list for contesting in Lok Sabha (Guntur) and eight Assembly Constituencies here on Saturday. As per the seat-sharing with the Congress, CPI will be contesting from Guntur Lok Sabha constituency. Ramakrishna said that CPI Guntur district secretary Jangala Ajay Kumar was the CPI candidate for the Guntur LS from the INDIA bloc. For the state assembly, his party would be contesting from the eight segments, he added. Ramakrishna stated that Attili Vimala's name was finalised for Visakhapatnam West. CPI Vijayawada City secretary G. Koteswara Rao is contesting from the Vijayawada West constituency, he said. Similarly, Bandi Venkateswara Rao is CPI candidate for Eluru Assembly seat, C. Jafar for Anantapur Urban, P. Ramachandraiah for Pathikonda, P. Murali for Tirupati, Bhukya Viswanath Naik for Rajampet and Gali Chandra for Kamalapuram are the contesting candidates, he said.

AP Polls: YS Avinash reacts to Sharmila's comments

AP Polls: YS Avinash reacts to Sharmila's comments Kadapa MP Y.S. Avinash Reddy on Saturday reacted to the series of remarks and allegations that APCC chief Y.S. Sharmila made against him in the former MP Y.S. Vivekananda Reddys murder case. The MP, whom Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has re-nominated from the Kadapa Lok Sabha seat, said, Rivals can speak anything. I believe the best thing is to leave their comments to their wisdom. Sharmila, during her campaign, has been targeting Avinash Reddy for his role in Viveka murder. She has asked people to be cautious and not vote for Avinash Reddy, so that politics of criAP Polls: YS Avinash reacts to Sharmila's comments Anantapur: Kadapa MP Y.S. Avinash Reddy on Saturday reacted to the series of remarks and allegations that APCC chief Y.S. Sharmila made against him in the former MP Y.S. Vivekananda Reddys murder case. The MP, whom Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has re-nominated from the Kadapa Lok Sabha seat, said, Rivals can speak anything. I believe the best thing is to leave their comments to their wisdom. Sharmila, during her campaign, has been targeting Avinash Reddy for his role in Viveka murder. She has asked people to be cautious and not vote for Avinash Reddy, so that politics of criminality in Kadapa district could be wiped out. Avinash Reddy said Sharmila has levelled some horrible allegations and her words are harsh and terrible. He felt the best thing is not to respond to each and every baseless allegation. Otherwise, mudslinging will go on every day, he remarked.minality in Kadapa district could be wiped out. Avinash Reddy said Sharmila has levelled some horrible allegations and her words are harsh and terrible. He felt the best thing is not to respond to each and every baseless allegation. Otherwise, mudslinging will go on every day, he remarked.

AP in Grip of Heat Wave; Nandyal, Kurnool Cross 44C

VISAKHAPATNAM : Andhra Pradesh is reeling under severe heatwave conditions, with mercury touching 44.5 degrees Celsius mark at Nandyal and Kurnool districts, while crossing 40 degrees in most places of the state on Saturday. Nandyal in Andhra Pradesh recorded its hottest day (44.5C) of the current summer, with the maximum temperature going four degrees above the normal temperature at this time. It is blistering 44.4C heat in Anantapur, five degrees above normal, followed by Kurnool 44.3C, Nandigama 43.6C, Jangamaheswarapuram 43.5C, Kadapa 43.2C, Tirupati 42.4C, Amaravati 41.8C, Kavali 41.6C, Gannavaram and Tuni 40.7C, Nellore 40.5C and Arogyavaram 40C. Remaining parts of the state recorded the maximum temperature between 35C and 40C on Saturday. Majority of the places virtually turned furnaces on Saturday. People struggled to cope with the hot and humid conditions. Comparatively, temperature remained low at Visakhapatnam (33.6 degrees) and Kalingapatnam in Srikakulam district (35.6 degrees). Senior scientist at IMD Amaravati Dr. S. Karuna Sagar said the heatwave has been sweeping the state for past three days (April 4 to April 6) consecutively. Though the IMD has not issued any heatwave warning for Sunday (April 7), hot and humid weather conditions will continue in the state. There will be some respite from the scorching heat from Monday, as thunderstorms accompanied with lightning are likely at isolated places over north coastal Andhra Pradesh from April 8 to April 10, Karuna Sagar stated. He advised public to take additional precautions, stay hydrated and drink sufficient water even if not feeling thirsty to avoid dehydration.

AP Polls: YS Sharmila Seeks Blessings from Kadapa Voters

Anantapur: APCC chief Y.S. Sharmila on Friday continued her tirade against her brother and Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, alleging that the latter is supporting the accused in the Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy murder case. He (Jagan) has also allotted the Kadapa MP seat to Y.S. Avinash Reddy, who is among those accused in the murder case, she pointed out. Sharmila went on to plead people of Kadapa to defeat Avinash Reddy in the Lok Sabha elections, showing they are against criminal politics. This is the best tribute you can pay to the slain Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy, she told people who had attended her public meeting. The APCC president, along with Vivekananda Reddys daughter Dr. N. Sunitha, is on a bus yatra of the Kadapa area. Addressing people at Amagampalli in Kasinayana mandal of Kadapa district, the APCC chief accused Jagan Mohan Reddy of doing nothing for the development of Kadapa district during the past five years The Chief Minister has made no progress on the long-pending steel plant in Kadapa. Had Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy been alive, the steel plant would have taken full shape by now, Sharmila remarked. She appealed to the people of Kadapa to do justice for Sunitha by defeating Y.S. Avinash Reddy. My contest against Avinash Reddy is only to fight against the criminal politics in the district, she underlined. On the day, former union minister Killi Kruparani joined the Congress in presence of Sharmila during her bus yatra in Kadapa district on Friday. Kruparani had quit YSRC a couple of days ago. She arrived in Kadapa on Friday and joined the Congress party. Addressing the public meeting on the occasion, she called on people of Kadapa to bless Sharmila, who is fighting for genuine issues of the state. Only Congress party can do justice to the state by conferring on it the special category status, the former union minister said.

CM Jagan to Whirlwind Election Campaign After MSBY

Vijayawada: Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has decided to intensify the election campaign in four to six Assembly constituencies per day after the completion of the ongoing Memantha Siddham Bus Yatra (MSBY). He reviewed the Memantha Siddham Bus Yatra and public meetings in the Yatra camp with YSRC leaders at Chintareddypalem in the Nellore district on Friday. He discussed the salient points of the YSRC manifesto that is likely to be released on Telugu New Year Ugadi. Only schemes that are possible will be included in the manifesto, he said. The Memantha Siddham Bus yatra has already been successfully conducted in YSR Kadapa, Nandyal, Kurnool, Anantapur, Sri Sathya Sai, Annamayya, Chittoor and Tirupati districts and it entered the Nellore district. Jagan Mohan Reddy gave a break to the Yatra on Friday and reviewed the 2024 election atmosphere. He started the Siddham election campaign on March 27 at Idupulapaya and continued the mega campaigns, interactions and public meetings in eight districts of Rayalaseema region. Jagan Mohan Reddy planned to tour 21 districts under MSBY excluding the rest of districts where Siddham mega meetings were conducted. He has to tour another 13 districts in the coming days. According to party sources, as soon as the bus tour is over across the state, whirlwind tours are going to be undertaken by the CM in the rest of the constituencies. Jagan Mohan Reddy would take part in face-to-face interactions with the people in the constituencies he was visiting. Along with this, a huge public meeting will be held at the end of the campaign every day till the completion of the election rounds by the CM. Before the 2019 elections, Jagan Mohan Reddy toured all the constituencies in the name of Praja Sankalpa Yatra. The problems and aspirations of the people in the respective constituencies were identified. Now, the CM would visit four to six constituencies every day and participate in the interactions, group discussions and public meetings. He is likely to tour the districts in a special helicopter. During the review meeting, party leaders told the CM that asking the beneficiaries to go to the bank and check their bank statements to know about the benefits they received from the YSRC government through DBT schemes has been turned into a big weapon in the election campaign. The bank statements are showing the extent of benefits each beneficiary got, they said.

MLC Iqbal quits YSRC

Anantapur: MLC Md Iqbal, who was formerly YSRC incharge of Hindupur assembly segment in Anantapur district, tendered his resignation to the party and also quit the MLC post on Friday. Md Iqbal, a former IG of Rayalaseema, contested on a YSRC ticket from Hindupur assembly segment against film star and sitting MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna of TD in the last general elections. Though he faced defeat, the YSRC encouraged him by providing him an MLC seat in the nomination category. Iqbal developed differences with local leaders of the YSRC and failed to lead the party even as he was MLC. Rayalaseema regional coordinator Peddireddy Ramachandra brought K. Deepika as incharge of Hindupur assembly segment a few weeks ago and the party later announced her as its candidate from Hindupur. However, Iqbal, who reportedly tried to gain support from the minorities and other sections of people in Hindupur, announced that he would be away from active politics for a few months and shifted his base to Hyderabad. In his resignation letter, Iqbal said he was quitting party for personal reasons. Speculations were rife that he got an invitation from TD to support Balakrishna in Hindupur.

ECI Appoints 3 DEOs, One IG, Five SPs in Andhra Pradesh

Vijayawada: The Election Commission of India has appointed three district election officers and one inspector general of police and five superintendents of police in AP on Thursday. The DEOs are: D.K. Balaji for Krishna, Dr V. Vinod Kumar for Anantapur and Pravin Kumar for Tirupati. With regard to police officers, Sarvashresta Tripathi has been appointed as IG, Guntur Range, followed by Garud Sumit Sunil as SP, Prakasam; Bindu Madhav Gaikipati as SP, Palnadu; V.N. Manikanta Chandola as SP, Chittoor and K. Arif Hafiz as SP, Nellore. The ECI asked all the officers to take charge immediately and submit compliance by 8 pm on Thursday. The ECI principal secretary Avinash Kumar said the Commission has acceded to the posting of the officers. On April 2, the ECI transferred three district magistrates, an IG and five SPs and it replaced all the vacancies by posting new officers.

INDIA alliance partner CPI to contest 1 Lok Sabha, 8 Assembly seats in Andhra Pradesh

INDIA alliance partner CPI to contest 1 Lok Sabha, 8 Assembly seats in Andhra Pradesh INDIA alliance partners Congress and CPI in Andhra Pradesh have struck a seat sharing deal for the ensuing simultaneous polls, entailing the CPI to contest one Lok Sabha and eight Assembly seats. As per the agreement reached on Thursday, CPI will contest the Guntur Lok Sabha constituency, while the Assembly segments include Vijayawada West, Visakhapatnam West, Anantapur and Pattikonda. Other Assembly constituencies allocated to the CPI are Tirupati, Rajampet, Eluru and Kamalapuram. Congress party will leave one Parliament constituency, namely Guntur to the CPI to contest. Congress party will leave the following eight Assembly constituencies to CPI to contest, the Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) said in a press release on Thursday night. YS Sharmila Reddy, president, APCC, held a series of consultations with Ramakrishna, secretary, CPI, on sharing of seats between Indian National Congress and CPI for the upcoming elections to Parliament and Assembly in Andhra Pradesh, it said. However, the names of the CPI candidates were not revealed in the press release. On April 2, Sharmila had announced the names of candidates for five Lok Sabha and 114 Assembly seats from the Congress party. With the announcement of the seat sharing deal between the Congress and CPI, clarity on the INDIA alliance candidates has emerged for six Lok Sabha and 122 Assembly seats in the southern state. Further details on another 19 Lok Sabha and 53 Assembly seats are awaited. The Communist Party of India (CPI), Congress and CPI (M) are INDIA alliance partners in Andhra Pradesh. Elections for the 175-member Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh are scheduled on May 13 and the counting of votes is slated for June 4.

IMD Issues Alert for Heat Wave in Rayalaseema and Coastal Andhra

VISHAKHAPATNAM: Andhra Pradesh experienced its first wave with sizzling temperatures recorded in Kaval in Nellore district and Anantapur in Rayalaseema region on Thursday. The IMD, Amaravathi has predicted a possible heat wave in parts of Rayalaseema and coastal Andhra Pradesh for the next two days (Friday and Saturday). The maximum temperature at Kavali was recorded at 40.1 degrees Celsius on Thursday, four degrees above normal, against 39 C a day earlier. Similarly, the maximum temperature at Anantapur was recorded at 43.3C, four degrees above normal on Thursday. Senior scientist Dr S Karuna Sagar at IMD, Amaravati said a heat wave is declared when the maximum temperature is above 40C and 4.5 degrees above the seasons normal maximum temperature. Two places in the state experienced heat waves on Thursday. According to the IMD-Amaravati reports, Anantapur was the hottest station in the state on Thursday at 43.3C. Kurnool and Nandyal followed with maximum temperatures settling at 43.2C and 43C, respectively. Kadapa recorded 42.6C on Thursday while Tirupati recorded 41.4C, Jangamaheswarapuram (40.2C), Kavali (40.1C ) and Nandigama (40.1C). Visakhapatnam and Kalingapatnam in Srikakulam registered lowest temperatures in the State with 32.2 degrees Celsius and 32.4 degrees. Due to prevailing mainly south-westerly dry air and high solar insolation, consequently maximum temperature (Day Temperature) likely to be more than 40C at many places over the districts of Rayalaseema and south coastal Andhra Pradesh (SCAP) and likely to be above normal by 2 to 4C on April 5 and 6. The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Friday and Saturday as heat wave conditions very likely to occur at one or two places over the districts of Kurnool, Nandyal, Kadapa, Anantapur, Sri Sathya Sai,Nellore ,Prakasam, Palnadu. Hot, humid and discomfort weather likely at isolated places over the remaining districts, Karuna Sagar added. Medical officials across the state issued advisory to the people, mostly elderly and children, to remain indoors during the day time and consume enough water.

Fourth leopard found dead in erstwhile Anantapur district in two months

No signs of poaching found on the big cats carcass; officials suspect severe shortage of water sources in the forests to be the cause of the deaths

Mercury crosses 43 degrees Celsius in Rayalaseema

ANANTAPUR : Rayalaseema region is reeling under a scorching sun even through it is early April. Mercury levels have crossed 43 degrees Celsius at four locations in Anantapur and Kurnool areas on Wednesday. Panyam mandal headquarters recorded 43.4 degrees Celsius followed by Atmakur in Nandyal district, which recorded 43.36 degrees Celsius. Laddagiri in Kodumur mandal of Kurnool district has registered 43.29 degrees Celsius temperature. Tarimela in Singanamala mandal of Anantapur district recorded 43.14 degrees Celsius, followed by 43.10 degree Celsius in Tadipatri town. About 10 locations recorded more than 42 degrees Celsius for the first time in the past few decades. Mercury levels touched 42.42 degrees in Guntakal town, 42 degrees in Singanamala, 42.87 degrees in Koilakuntla, 42.74 degrees in Rudravaram, 42.71 degrees in Sirvel and 42.14 degrees in CK Palli mandal headquarters. IMD officials observed that failure of the South West monsoon in the early stage and rain deficit in later stages has led to an alarming rise in mercury levels during the present season. Most of the tanks and river beds are empty. Projects have also reached dead storage levels.

Vijayamma Blesses Jagan and Sharmila at Idupulapaya

Anantapur: With former AP chief minister late Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddys both children Jagan Mohan Reddy and Sharmila are contesting from different parties in the forthcoming twin elections in Andhra Pradesh, people are wondering about the role Vijayalakshmi, spouse of the late CM and mother of Jagan Mohan Reddy and Sharmila, could play as the electoral tempo picks up in the coming weeks. Popular as Vijayamma, Vijayalakshmi herself is an ex-MLA from Pulivendula, the stronghold of the YSR family, and the former honorary president of YSRC. Playing a delicate role, Vijayamma blessed her son and Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy on May 27, the day he launched his Memantha Siddham Bus Yatra from Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy Ghat in Idupulapaya in Pulivendula Assembly constituency, from where the CM is seeking re-election. Vijayamma also blessed at the same place AP Congress Committee (APCC) president Y.S. Sharmila, who is contesting as the Congress candidate from the Kadapa Lok Sabha constituency of which Pulivendula is an Assembly segment. Sharmila went on to take a dig against her brother Jagan and cousin Y.S. Avinash Reddy, who is the YSRC candidate from the Kadapa Lok Sabha constituency. Vijayalakshmi, who blessed her son YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on the day of launching Memantha Siddham Bus Yatra at YSR Ghat in Idupulapaya in Pulivendula segment in Kadapa district on March 27, wished Jagan. Vijayamma offered special prayers at YSR Ghat seeking blessings from the Lord for a successful bus yatra of her son, who is committed to serve the people of Andhra Pradesh. Subsequently, Vijayamma also offered special prayers for her daughter Sharmila on Tuesday evening at the YSR Ghat in Idupulapaya, when the APCC chief announced the first list of Congress candidates. Vijayammas blessings for both son and daughter has gained attention from all sections of people in the state, particularly in Kadapa district. Both Jagan and Sharmila are opposing each other now, following differences between them over the past few years, including the way the murder of former MP Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy has been handled by the state government over the past five years. YSRC LS nominee from Kadapa Avinash Reddy and his father Y.S. Bhaskar Reddy are among the accused in the murder of Vivekananda Reddy. Bhaskar Reddy had been arrested by CBI last year. Sharmila is supporting Vivekananda Reddys daughter Dr. N. Sunitha, who is fighting for justice in the murder case. Both Sharmila and Sunitha have accused Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy of not only failing to do justice for the victim's family in the murder case, but supporting the accused. Interestingly, the TD and BJP leaders are hoping to gain from the triangular fight in Kadapa Lok Sabha constituency, as Sharmila was targeting Avinash Reddy and also Jagan Mohan Reddy for the injustice done in the murder case of her uncle. Pulivendula TD candidate B. Tech Ravi has demanded that Avinash Reddy keep away from Kadapa Lok Sabha polls, because slain Y.S. Vivekananda Reddys last wish had been to make Y.S. Sharmila the Kadapa MP.

AP HC Relief for Sunitha, Husband in Viveka Case

Anantapur: The Andhra Pradesh High Court has provided relief to former MP Y.S. Vivekananda Reddys daughter N. Sunitha, her husband Rajasekhar Reddy and former investigation officer of CBI Ram Singh. The court asked police not to take any action against them for four weeks and posted the matter to April 29. Pulivendula police had filed a case against Sunitha, her husband Rajasekhar Reddy and CBI officer Ram Singh following a complaint by Krishna Reddy, former PA of murdered Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy. Krishna Reddy complained that the three are trying to impact witnesses in the Vivekananda Reddy murder case. Sunitha, Rajasekhar Reddy and Ram Singh then approached the High Court. The High Court directed the police not to take any action in the issue for four weeks and posted the case to April 29.

YSRC Leaders and Cadre Excited After Jagans successful Bus Yatra in Rayalaseema

Anantapur: The YSRC leaders and cadre are excited after the good response Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy got during his bus yatra in the Rayalaseema region. Large numbers of TD leaders and cadres joined the YSRC in the presence of the chief minister in all the districts. The third list of candidates released by the TD reportedly led to resentment in the partys rank and file in key segments in the region. The party chose several candidates with no party background. They were traders and businessmen, or money bags, while senior leaders were allegedly ignored. Though TD chief Nara Chandrababu Naidu toured the Rayalaseema region, covering Anantapur, Kurnool and Kadapa areas for the past week, the party failed to pacify the leaders who failed to get the tickets. Notably, the YSRC too had faced a similar situation but the leadership took care to assuage the hurt feelings of those who failed to get the tickets. TD incharge Umamaheswar Naidu from Kalyandurg Assembly segment quit theTD after the party offered a seat to a contractor who was in no way connected to the party. Uma lamented that the party ignored him even as he was the TD incharge of the segment for the past five years. Accusing the TD high command of selling the party ticket to a contractor, he joined the YSRC in the presence of Jagan Mohan Reddy during the CMs visit at Pathikonda. Another former MLA Athar Chand Bhasha of Kadiri Assembly segment also joined the YSRC in the CMs presence at Kadiri on Monday night. A former police officer hoped to get the Puttaparthi ticket from the TD and then joined the YSRC after he was denied the TD ticket. Several leaders from Hindupur, Puttaparthi and Kadapa districts joined the YSRC after quitting the TD during the past five days of the bus yatra. The TD was still facing a disturbed situation in Anantapur Urban Assembly segment as also in Anantapur LS and Guntakal. The party announced the name of former YSRC minister G. Jayaram from Kurnool district while the cadres from Guntakal opposed the choice. They recalled that Chandrababu Naidu himself accused Jayaram of being a gambler and involved in liquor mafia, but allotted the party ticket to him soon after he quit the YSRC. During public meetings, Naidu targeted Jagan Mohan Reddy, saying the present government ignored the irrigation sector as also industrial development of Rayalaseema region during the past five years. The major irrigation project, HNSS, was badly neglected and the government failed to complete the pending works in time, he alleged. Meanwhile, Jagan Mohan Reddy concentrated on the successful implementation of the welfare schemes in a way that the benefits reached the doorsteps of every poor family without any corruption and irregularities during the past five years, claim YSRC leaders.

EC transfers three DCs, four SPs and IG in AP

Election Commission told the Bombay High Court on Tuesday that it would derecognise those political parties which use children in election campaign or poll-related work. (Photo: PTI/File) Election Commission told the Bombay High Court on Tuesday that it would derecognise those political parties which use children in election campaign or poll-related work. (Photo: PTI/File) Vijayawada: The Election Commission has issued transfer orders to three district collectors, four SPs and one IG of police. They will not be assigned any election duty until completion of the present elections. The officials were district collectors from Krishna, Anantapur and Tirupati and the SPs from Prakasam, Palnadu, Chittoor, Anantapur and Nellore districts and one IGP from Guntur Range. The ECI, in a release issued on Tuesday stated that the decision was part of a regular review by the commission during a meeting chaired by the Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar and other election commissioners. All the transferred officials were asked to hand over the charge to their immediate junior officer. The ECI asked the AP government to send a panel of IAS and IPS officers to the commission.

Andhra Pradesh polls: EC orders transfer of 6 IPS, 3 IAS officers

Amaravati: The Election Commission on Tuesday ordered the transfer of three district collectors, five superintendents of police and an inspector general of police, with immediate effect, in Andhra Pradesh where elections to the assembly and Lok Sabha will be held simultaneously on May 13. Tirupati Collector G Lakshmisha, Anantapuramu Collector M Gowthami and Krishna Collector Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .