Every part of India has its unique characteristics, some of which are also known for their religious places. One such state is Andhra Pradesh of South India where you will get to see one or the other temple at every nook and corner. Here you will find temples of all the revered gods and goddesses of Hindu religion. Along with religious faith, the temples here are also known for their architecture. These temples built centuries ago are now known for tourism and even foreigners come here to see them. Today in this episode, we are going to tell you about some popular temples of Andhra Pradesh, which are visited by lakhs of devotees from almost every corner of the country and you should also visit once. Let us know about these temples... Kanaka Durga Temple Indrakeeladri is a very beautiful hill in Vijayawada city of Andhra Pradesh. The holy Krishna river flows along this hill and the Kanaka Durga temple of Maa Durga is built on its banks. Special worship is done here during Navratri. People have great faith in this temple of Goddess Durga. There is a large gathering of devotees here. There is a huge celebration here on the day of Dussehra and on this day pilgrims take a holy dip in the Krishna river. Kanak Durga Temple in Andhra Pradesh is one of the many Shaktipeeths located in the country. The goddess is installed here in her Mahishasuramardini form, along with the idol of the slain demon king Mahishasura is also present here. People believe in this temple that the wishes of every devotee who comes here are fulfilled. That's why thousands of devotees come here every year to have darshan. Venkateswara Temple Tirupati Tirupati Balaji Temple, located on the Tirumala hill in Tirupati in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, is one of the major temples and religious places of Andhra Pradesh where lakhs of devotees come every year to have darshan of Venkateshwara and fulfill their wishes. Tirupati Balaji Temple is highly recognized among the people of Hindu religion. The glory of this temple is immense. It is said that by visiting Tirupati once in life, life becomes successful. Built at a height of 853 feet above Sumrdi level, this temple is also called the Temple of Seven Hills because of the seven peaks on the hill. This is the richest temple in the country in terms of charity and religion. Every year crores of rupees are donated to this temple. Every day 50 thousand to 1 lakh devotees reach the temple to have darshan of Venkateswara, while on special occasions the number of pilgrims goes up to 5 lakh. Lepakshi Temple Lepakshi Temple is a major tourist destination in Andhra Pradesh. Lepakshi Temple, located in the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh, is also known as Veerabhadra Temple and Hanging Temple. Lepakshi Temple is famous for its mysterious stories as well as the Hanging Pillars. It is said that a glimpse of the history of the Vijayanagara Empire can also be seen in this temple. Here you will also see the footprints of Mother Sita. Apart from architectural importance, the temple is also an important pilgrimage site of Lord Shiva as per Skanda Purana. Lepakshi is a temple which attracts not only pilgrims but also art lovers. Srikalahasti Temple Srikalahasti Temple is located in Chittoor district of Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh. The temple of Srikalahasti is extremely popular among the devotees who visit this temple along with the Tirupati temple. This temple is 36 km from Tirupati. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva which holds immense religious importance for Hindus and was built in the year 1516 by King Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagara Empire. The entrance to the temple offers stunning views and has intricate carvings of many mythological paintings. This magnificent temple is often referred to as Kailasa and Kashi of the South. The temple represents one of the five elements and that is air. Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is built on the Nallamala hills of Srisailam in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. These huge hills are considered to be the abode of God. It is said that Shiva is everywhere here. This temple is also one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, hence this place has special significance. Lord Rama himself had established the Sahasralinga here, while the Pandavas had established the Panchapandava Linga in the courtyard of the temple. Ranganath Temple Situated on the banks of Pennar River in Nellore, Ranganatha Temple is one of the most revered temples of Andhra Pradesh. Ranganatha Temple, dedicated to Ranganathaswami Swami, is considered to be the oldest temple in the area and attracts a large number of devotees. Let us tell you that along with its religious activities, this temple is also known for its beautiful architecture and exquisite carvings, which make it a very special place for devotees as well as art lovers and tourists. Whenever you come here, you will be able to see the idol of Lord Sri Ranganathaswamy, the presiding deity of the temple, as well as a hall decorated with intricate carvings in which seven gold vessels are kept. Kolanu Bharati Temple Kolanu Bharati Temple in Andhra Pradesh is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati and is a very sacred pilgrimage site. An ancient Shivalinga is also present in this temple complex, for whose darshan thousands of tourists come every day. Apart from this, there is a statue of Kaal Bhairav in this temple complex which is considered a very sacred statue. The age-old tradition of Aksharashim is still followed in this ancient temple. The temple complex also has a Shivalinga, known as Sapta Linga Kshetra, and an idol of Kaal Bhairava that guards the area. (PC: Lifeberrys)
Be wary of TDPs impractical promises: Andhra CM Jagan
VIJAYAWADA: Kick-starting his third phase of campaigning for the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections, YSRC president and Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Sunday urged people to vote for his party to ensure continuity of welfare schemes and development projects. However, he cautioned them against voting for Chandrababu Naidu and his TDP, claiming that he will only end welfare and development measures that being implemented now. Addressing election rallies at Tadipatri, Venkatagiri, and Kandukur, Jagan reiterated that he only made promises which he could implement, unlike TDP which does exactly the opposite. The TDP has no intention to keep any of the promises it makes. They will come out with impractical promises to deceive the people, he said. In Kandukur of Nellore district, he said Opposition leader Chandrababu Naidu, his foster son Pawan Kalyan, and sister-in-law Daggubati Purandeswari are outsiders as they live in Hyderabad. These kitty party non-local leaders are the New East India Company members who are here to loot and share the spoils among themselves, he said and urged people to reject such leaders. In Venkatagiri of Tirupati district, Jagan criticised Naidu for his inability to claim one scheme or project as his achievement in his 14-year-long stint as chief minister. Unlike Chandrababu Naidu who failed in delivering on his promises, we have implemented welfare schemes which included YSR Cheyutha, Aasara, Jagananna Chedodu, financial assistance to farmers, Jagananna Thodu, Kapu Nestam, and EBC Nestham in a transparent manner, he pointed out and challenged Naidu to try and stop any of the schemes. The Chief Minister also asked Naidu whether TDP will restore the Janmabhoomi committees by suspending the volunteer system if they come to power. You (Naidu) have served as chief minister for 14 years, whereas my tenure was for 58 months. Despite this, when it comes to the welfare schemes, your approach seems to consist solely of duplicating my efforts and amplifying them to sway voters during the election, the YSRC president claimed. In Tadipatri, referring to the movie characters and their famous punch lines like Chandramukhi (Laka Laka Laka) and Pasupathi (Vadala Bhomali Ninu Vadala), the Chief Minister said Naidu will be like these characters who do not leave people until they satiate their thirst to plunder the State. Dont be misled by his assurances, Jagan cautioned the people. He said the YSRC considers the manifesto a holy book like the Bible, Quran, and Bhagavad Gita. Reiterating that he has fulfilled all the assurances he had made in 2019, he promised to do so, if elected again. I have pressed the button 130 times to credit Rs 2.70 lakh crore to the bank accounts of the beneficiaries, he said and promised the establishment of an Agriculture College in Tadipatri constituency. Jagan highlighted the revolutionary measures taken by his government like revamping government schools, village clinics, and Aarogya Suraksha for doorstep delivery of health services, and financial assistance without corruption and in a transparent manner.
Rahul Gandhi has suddenly become a communist: Vishweshwar Reddy
BJP Chevella candidate Konda Vishweshwar Reddy says that redistribution of wealth is a communist ideology that has failed economically throughout the world. Speaking to a TNIE team, the former MP one of the richest candidates in this LS elections noted that despite what Rahul Gandhi says, banking data shows that Congress governments used to give a significant chunk of loans to the wealthy. He says that Modis philosophy is the exact opposite and points out that since 201617, loans given to those at the bottom of the pyramid has increased 20 times. Excerpts from the interview How is your campaign going on? Ranjith Reddy is the incumbent MP. Now he has joined the Congress. It is going on well. In fact, I started the campaign almost six months ago. We started with cultural events, Bhajana competitions in 600 villages... Much before my candidature was announced, one round of campaigning was over. Most of my campaigning is focused on rural areas where, in the Assembly polls, the results were very poor. Our ally Jana Sena got 4,000 votes. My target is 60,000 to one lakh. 65% of my time and efforts go into rural areas. The BJP is anyway strong in the city. One of the major issues is inflation. How are the people receiving it? How are you explaining the role of the Modi government to the people? In certain items, there is inflation. But is the inflation beyond income rise? In rural areas, it is not. In villages, before 2014, there used to be 10 to 15 motorcycles. Now every household has one. In rural areas, people are now going beyond basic necessities. They are going to Tirupati, and other yatras like never before. Yes, there is inflation. But India has controlled inflation better than any other country. Take LPG cylinders for instance, the Modi government has ensured that price rise doesnt affect the bottom-most layer. Inflation is an issue but no country has controlled it as well as India. And it is showing in rural spending. There is a huge surge in consumer goods sales than ever before in rural areas. They predicted this after PV Narasimha Rao revived the economy it is really happening now. Do you accept that the BRS government was successful in increasing the purchasing power of the people, at least partly? In the last 10 years, living standards have improved. But who does the credit go to? Does it go to those who made the state bankrupt? Whatever little that comes is directly because of Prime Minister Modis and BJPs policies the Antyodaya story. Im especially talking about the rural areas 5 kg free rice, minimum support price. Urea, Rs 2,400 a bag, is given to farmers at Rs 270, almost a 90% subsidy. The Congress is talking about an increase in petrol prices from Rs 70 to Rs 100. But they are not talking about an increase in MNREGA amount from Rs 150 to Rs 300. Incomes have doubled while inflation increased by 20%. This is what I have been seeing in rural areas, the boom in FMCG sales. Development has occurred in Telangana and all over India. It happened despite KCR and his rule. You recently asked parties to refrain from exploiting caste divisions for short-term political gains? One of the most astute caste politicians India has ever produced is KCR. And the BJP is totally against it. KCRs policies reaffirmed that India is a caste-based system, from the policy side too. If you belong to certain communities, you were given sheep. Why cant an SC become a shepherd? And why cant a shepherd become a computer engineer or doctor? Only if he grazes sheep would he have benefitted from KCRs schemes. Let us look at the other extreme the first time in India ever, a policy was introduced that suppresses expression of caste-related vocations. It is the Centres Vishwakarma Yojana. It is a scheme that promotes skills and gives loans for anybody who is doing work with their hands a carpenter or a barber or a mestri. But how does the BJP define a barber? Not by his caste. The scheme is available not just for the Mangala community but for Hindus, Muslims, Christians and anyone who wants to set up a saloon. The BJP wants to suppress caste. This is what Dr Ambedkar wanted. However the BJP leadership has been accused of using religious divisions to get votes. It is not just the BJP, the DMK has also been accused of doing so. Othering some community, whatever that community might be, is it necessary for electoral success? In all parties, there are wise men. There are also absolute fools in all parties. One guy making a comment doesnt change the policy of the BJP. We are against religion-based policies. If you take any policy of the BJP, Vishwakarma Yojana or Mudra or free rice, it goes to everyone. In fact, it is the Congress that is highly communal. They are doing false propaganda and radicalising educated Muslim youth both men and women. One of the examples is CAA. The CAA is not against excluding anybody, it is about including people. Look at the Congress candidates here. They are openly announcing that we have four lakh Muslims votes and two lakh Christian votes in our constituency. Is that not communalising politics? Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, recently in Telangana, spoke about redistribution of wealth. The PM is saying that Congress is out to take away your mangalsutras. Rahul Gandhi has suddenly become a communist. Redistribution of wealth is a communist ideology that has failed economically throughout the world, has led to collapsing of economies. Whose wealth does he want to redistribute? Does he want to create or redistribute wealth? Has India reached a ceiling and the only way to uplift the poor is to become a Robin Hood? Does he know economics? He might have meant he will tax the ultra-rich, like you. That is already being done. Very high taxation increases black money, which is what happened during the Congress era. This ruined the country. There were times when 80% of the income was taxed. And what was happening? None of the Indian companies were owned fully by Indians. His fathers guardian Swraj Paul came as a corporate raider and wanted to take over all Indian companies. PSUs like SBI and LIC owned shares of these companies. He bought Rs 1 shares and SBI and LIC supported him in grabbing these companies. Black money has now come down significantly and that is reflected in tax collections. That is because of this governments economic policy, which reflects ancient wisdom the RSS, BJP philosophy of Antyodaya which the Centre and Modi follow. This is very contradictory to the ideas of Raghuram Rajan, an out-and-out capitalist. I happened to be on the select committee of Parliament on FRDI. The Congress policy, if you look at the banking data, was to give a significant chunk of the loans to the wealthy. In Chevella constituency, all the banks together, when I was the MP, were supposed to give at least Rs 2,000 crore to rural areas for smaller loans. They gave only 10% of that. Prior to 201617, the loans given to those at the bottom of the pyramid was tiny. It increased by 20-fold, not 20%, but 20-fold. Congress theory was giving it to the top guys to the industrialists, who build factories hoping it would reach those at the bottom. Modis was exactly opposite. And its reinforced by theories of Amartya Sen and modern economists Rahul Gandhi is more or less saying the same thing. He can say anything. But did he give them? They have no direction. The proof of the pudding is looking at the bank data. What do you think of KCRs marathon TV interview on a news channel, particularly regarding Kaleshwaram? He said Rs 150 crore is enough for repairs and making it operational. I am campaigning and am not watching television. Kaleshwaram is the worlds biggest engineering failure. It has a number of components including Medigadda and the other barrages, the canals, the tunnels, etc. Every component is a problem. But if you fix every one of them, it is an even bigger problem. There is a systemic design problem. That was the primary reason I left the TRS. I was given the greatest respect in TRS that nobody else got not even KK. I was initially impressed by KCR because he had the geography and topology of Telangana at the back of his head. However, he is not an engineer and he cannot design it. But he designed the project himself. He undermined anybody who spoke against it. The Kaleshwaram design goes against all engineering fields and weather sciences too. KCR used barrages to store water. These structures are built on sand. When you use it to store water for more than a few weeks, water starts seeping into the sand. One occupational hazard of a politician is that we lose touch with reality as soon as we get power, no matter how sane we are. If I had that many people calling me Telangana jathipitha or Telangana mahatma, then I will probably be a worse demon than KCR. KCR played with Telangana like a child with a toy, he could not handle power. Is Kaleshwaram project of any use or not? If the government repairs the barrages, can it be used? Everyone in the Congress are good friends. The first thing I did was meet [Irrigation Minister] Uttam Kumar Reddy. It so happened that L&T guys were there and they were discussing repairing Medigadda. I told them that it is technically and politically wrong for you to even repair Medigadda. Technically wrong because the barrage cannot be used as a reservoir. Politically wrong because by repairing something that is useless, you are reaffirming that KCRs design was correct and by chance, three pillars sank. It took them time to understand it but they still didnt get it. Nobody in the Congress knows about irrigation as much as KCR but he doesnt know engineering. How is Revanth Reddy implementing the six guarantees? Recently, he said that he will implement farm loan waiver by August 15. He said December initially and now August. August, but not which year. Telangana is bankrupt. He has no money. At one time, Congress used to consult several senior leaders before coming up with a manifesto. This time, I dont think the Telangana Congress or Revanth Reddy had any role or say in the six guarantees. Delhi Congress has brilliant people in its various committees. I know one of them, Prof Rajeev Gowda. The guarantees are not decided by any of them but by the paid election strategist. It is a pity to see the Congress fall to such a level. In all the 17 LS seats in TG, Chevella stands apart. Out of the seven Assembly segments here, four are in rural areas, three are in urban areas. Without any doubt, Chevella is the most diverse segment in the entire country. The most developed part of India is part of this segment and the most backward part too. There are about 1.4 lakh voters speaking Rajasthani, 60K to 70K voters who speak Kannada, we have another 30,000 voters who speak Marathi, they have been here for 400 years. We have a huge Urdu-speaking population. Then because of IT (sector), there are 25,000 people from every linguistic community in the constituency. I was born and brought up here. I hail from a rural background, but I never lost touch. As part of Musi Riverfront Development Project, the Central government has agreed to give Rs 700 crore for the setting up of 39 Sewerage Treatment Plants (STPs). Musi is the stupidest priority. The cost is half of Kaleshwaram, Rs 50,000 crore. I am going to oppose the Centres move. First, you run your STPs fully. All the STPs are running at 1020% capacity. Money should not be released until existing STPs are running at least above 80% capacity And how will you clean Musi before cleaning Tank Bund? The Tank Bund sewage goes into Musi. TNIE team: Kalyan Tholeti, Prasanna RS, VV Balakrishna, S Bachan Jeet Singh, Manda Ravinder Reddy, Navya Parvathy and Ajay Tomar
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.
Can Chandrababu Naidu stop any scheme I implemented: CM Jagan
Venkatagiri: YSRCP chief and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy on Sunday challenged TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu to try and stop any single scheme he has implemented over the past five years. The YSRCP chief issued this challenge at Venkatagiri in Tirupati district during a public meeting on the first day 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 .
PM likely to inaugurate basic food lab in Visakhapatnam
Vijayawada: Commissioner of Food Safety, Dr Salijamala Venkateswar, announced that the food safety department has concluded an MoU with FSSAI, New Delhi, and secured `80 crore in funds for establishing food labs, mobile food labs, and enhancing the food safety ecosystem in Andhra Pradesh. The commissioner informed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to inaugurate the basic food lab in Visakhapatnam will be functional by June/July, with a microbiology laboratory in Vizag. He future mentioned that three food labs, located in Visakhapatnam, Guntur, and Tirupati, will be operational by December 2024 and the Mobile Food Testing Labs will commence operations soon. Venkateswar instructed to take stringent action against the use of banned food colours, synthetic food colours, and the reuse of cooking oil multiple times due to their cancer-causing properties. He also mentioned that regular review meetings will be conducted for the effective implementation of the Food Safety Act 2006 across the state. A focused approach will be implemented to reduce the use of repeatedly boiled cooking oil and to ensure effective implementation of food safety rules and regulations. Venkateswar stated that programmes such as hygiene ratings, Eat Right Schools, Eat Right Campus, clean food hubs, and clean vegetable hubs will be carried out regularly. He informed that more than 300 cases were booked against the use of repeatedly heated cooking oil across the state.
Tirupati Rallies Erupt in Violence
Violent clashes during rival political rallies in Tirupati spark accusations and confrontations between YSRC and TD-Jana Sena-BJP camps
Septuagenarians ready for ballot battle in Andhra Pradesh
A cohort of septuagenarians are in the poll fray to continue the stranglehold on their respective Lok Sabha and Assembly constituencies in Andhra Pradesh. With their rich political experience, these veterans are expected to be the guiding force for the young brigade in the development of AP on all fronts. A look at the veterans of ballot battles. Nara Chandrababu Naidu, 74 The TDP supremo is contesting for the record 10th time to the Andhra Pradesh State Assembly. The former Chief Minister ventured into politics during his college days and first contested as an MLA from Chandragiri in 1978 on Congress ticket and won. He lost the election in 1983. Later, he joined the TDP and contested the election from Kuppam Assembly constituency in 1989. Since then, he has remained undefeated. He served as Chief Minister of AP thrice. He is contesting from Kuppam constituency for the eighth consecutive time. Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy, 71 The Energy Minister is also contesting for the record 10th time to the State Assembly. He first contested as an MLA from Piler on Janata Party ticket, but lost, In 1985, he contested the same seat on Congress ticket and lost. He entered the Assembly for the first time from Piler in 1989. In 2009, he won from Punganur. In 2014, he won from the same Assembly seat on YSRC ticket. He has remained undefeated since then, and is now contesting for the fourth consecutive time from Punganur. Magunta Srinivasulu Reddy, 70 He entered politics at a very young age and won the elections in 1998, 2004 and 2009 from Ongole Lok Sabha seat on Congress ticket. In 2014, he contested as Ongole MP on TDP ticket and lost. He won the poll on YSRC ticket in 2019. In February, he rejoined the TDP. Now, he is in the poll fray from Ongole Lok Sabha seat. Simhadri Chandrasekhar Rao, 70 The renowned oncologist is making his electoral debut from Machilipatnam Lok Sabha constituency on YSRC ticket. Son of renowned lawyer and former MP Simhadri Satyanarayana, who held portfolios of Endowments and Commercial Taxes in the Cabinets of NT Rama Rao and N Chandrababu Naidu, he was initially made YSRC incharge of Avanigadda Assembly constituency. Later, the YSRC leadership had changed its decision and fielded him from Machilipatnam Lok Sabha seat. Adala Prabhakar Reddy, 75 In his 25 year political career, he won on TDP, Congress and YSRC tickets. After quitting the TDP, he joined Congress and won from Sarvepalle constituency in 2004 and 2009. Later, he joined the YSRC and won from Nellore Lok Sabha constituency. Now, he is contesting from Nellore Rural against K Sridhar Reddy of TDP. Anam Ramanarayana Reddy, 71 He started his political career by contesting from Nellore Assembly seat in 1983 on TDP ticket, and became a minister in NTRs first cabinet. In 1985, he won from Rapur. In 1991, he joined the Congress. He served as a minister for four times. In 2018, he joined the YSRC and won from Venkatagiri. In 2023, he was suspended from the YSRC. The six-time MLA, is contesting for the 10th time on TDP ticket, from Atmakur. Gorantla Butchaiah Chowdary, 78 The veteran Telugu Desam leader won from Rajahmundry Assembly constituency for the first time in 1983. He lost in 1989, but won the subsequent two elections. However, he lost the next two Assembly elections. In 2014, he shifted to Rajahmundry Rural Assembly constituency and won. He has been the general secretary of the TDP. He served as the civil supplies minister in NT Rama Raos cabinet. He retained the Assembly seat in 2019. He is in the election fray for the 10th time, and contesting from Rajahmundry Rural segment. Velagapalli Varaprasad, 71 After taking voluntary retirement as an IAS officer, he joined Praja Rajyam Party and contested from Tirupati Lok Sabha constituency in the 2009 elections and lost. Later, he joined the YSRC and contested from Tirupati Lok Sabha seat and won. In the 2019 elections, he contested from Gudur Assembly constituency and won. He quit the YSRC on March 24, 2024 and joined the BJP. Now, he is in the fray from Tirupati Lok Sabha constituency on BJP ticket
AP: 503 nominations for 25 Lok Sabha seats; 2,705 for 175 Assembly seats okayed
VIJAYAWADA: In all, 503 nominations for 25 Lok Sabha constituencies and 2,705 papers for 175 Assembly segments in the State have been approved after scrutiny, informed Chief Electoral Officer Mukesh Kumar Meena on Saturday. The last date for withdrawal of nominations is April 29. The final list of candidates in the fray for the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections will be out after the withdrawal of nominations. As many as 686 nominations were filed for 25 Lok Sabha constituencies, and 3,644 for 175 Assembly seats. The CEO informed that 183 nominations for parliamentary constituencies and 939 papers for Assembly segments were rejected in scrutiny. The highest number of 47 nominations were filed for Guntur parliamentary constituency and the lowest number of 16 for Srikakulam. The highest number of 36 nominations were approved for Nandyal Lok Sabha constituency and the lowest number of 12 for Rajahmundry. While the highest number of 52 nominations were filed for Tirupati Assembly constituency, Chodavaram got the low number of eight. The highest number of 48 nominations were approved for Tirupati Assembly segment, and the lowest number of six for Chodavaram, the CEO added.
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.
Trial Run for Vande Metro and Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains To Start Soon: Reports
The Vande Metro trains will connect approximately 124 cities, including Lucknow-Kanpur, Agra-Mathura, Delhi-Rewari, Bhubaneswar-Balasore, and Tirupati-Chennai.
Atmakur Witnessing Mekapati or Anam Dynastic Tussle
Tirupati: The electoral battle in Atmakur Assembly constituency is a litmus test for two powerful dynasties Mekapatis and Anams with the long-pending Somasila High Level Canal becoming a decisive issue. Ruling YSRCs incumbent MLAMekapati Vikram Reddy is seeking re-election for a second term. He faces a formidable challenge from the opposition National Democratic Alliance (NDA) candidate Anam Ramanarayana Reddy, a former minister and YSRC rebel. Ramanarayana Reddy had previously won from Atmakur in 2009. Vikram had won the Atmakur seat in the 2022 by-poll, after his brother and former minister Goutham Reddy's demise. The Mekapati clan wields considerable clout in the region, while Anam boasts of a robust cadre built over the years in the constituency. As the D-day approaches, campaigning has hit a feverish pitch with no-holds-barred rhetoric from both camps. A core electoral issue is Somasila reservoir's potential to meet irrigation and drinking needs of Atmakur. This need has remained a need due to delays in making the Somasila High Level Canal (SHLC) a reality. Atmakur's farmers are staring at ruin due to water scarcity. The incumbent YSRC government has not demonstrated sincerity in completing this project and irrigating the parched lands, charges Ramanarayana Reddy. Speaking about the time (2014 to 2024) subsequent to his departure from the constituency, during which Atmakur has stayed under the control of Mekapati family, the TDP candidate describes the period as a dark phase, characterised by stagnation and lack of progress on the developmental front. Ramanarayana Reddy terms Mekapatis Atmakur Development Forum (ADF) a decorative tin cover which conceals the failures in development. Vikram Reddy, however, remains unfazed. He is vigorously campaigning around ADF's blueprint of upgrading civic amenities through public-private partnership models. The agenda of ADF encompasses sprucing up healthcare, education, roads and drainage infrastructure through collective action involving community leaders, experts, individuals and corporates through CSR initiatives. ADF will catalyse inclusive growth by bringing all stakeholders on board, the YSRC MLA claims. Vikram has unveiled a manifesto tailored specifically for Atmakur, detailing strategies for industrial growth, infrastructure enhancement, employment generation and turning Atmakur town into a municipality. Our manifesto pledges to set up factories at the Narampet industrial park, creating over 5,000 job opportunities. Additionally, YSRC plans to earmark 419 crore to finalise the SHLC project and enhance irrigation canals in the area. This will ensure effective water management and boost agricultural output, the MLA stated.
YSRCs Navaratnalu Plus focuses on welfare & growth
VIJAYAWADA: Enhanced aid under Amma Vodi, Rythu Bharosa and social security pensions are some of the key promises in YSRCs manifesto Jagananna Navaratnalu Plus. Additionally, the party has also promised to set up a Skill University in Tirupati, skill colleges in 26 districts, and integrated skill hubs in 175 constituencies. YSRC president and Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy released the manifesto on Saturday and reiterated that his assurances will be practical. Speaking to reporters at the CMs camp office, Jagan said, I dont want to compete with TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu in spewing lies. I will only make promises that can be kept. In 2019, we introduced various schemes as part of Navaratanalu and implemented 99.4% of them. Elaborating on the initiatives taken by his government in the last 58 months, he pointed out, Weve deposited Rs 2.68 lakh crore directly into beneficiaries accounts through DBT (direct benefit transfer) and Rs 1.78 lakh crore through non-DBT methods. Despite the challenges posed by the Covid pandemic and revenue losses that happened thereafter, we never made any excuses and meticulously executed our manifesto with a smile. Drawing a comparison between the current government and the previous TDP regime, the YSRC chief said facts and figures speak for themselves, as to who was sincere in fulfilling the promises. He announced key assurances under each of the nine categories: social security, development, education, health, agriculture, higher education, Nadu-Nedu, housing for the poor, and women empowerment. Terming Amma Vodi his pet project, Jagan announced that mothers of school-going children will receive Rs 17,000, up from Rs 15,000 previously. The revised amount will also include Rs 2,000 school and toilet maintenance fund. Social security pensions will be hiked to Rs 3,500 from the current Rs 3,000. As it would take time for the financial situation to stabilise and to ensure growth, pensions will initially be enhanced to Rs 3,250 in 2028 and to Rs 3,500 in 2029, he explained. Emphasising that his government has spent Rs 88,650 crore in the past five years towards social security pensions with an average annual expenditure of Rs 24,000 crore, he pointed out that no other State government has given such a high amount of pension to such a large number of beneficiaries. Noting that agriculture is the mainstay of the States economy and that his government has always been committed to the welfare of farmers, agriculture and allied sectors, Jagan announced that aid under Rythu Bharosa will be enhanced to Rs 16,000 from Rs 13,500 per annum. In the 2019 manifesto, we promised to give Rs 50,000 to the farmers over a period of five years, but extended Rs 67,500 (Rs 13,500 per year). In the next five years, we will disburse Rs 80,000, he said. The amount will be paid in three installments Rs 8,000 at the time of Kharif crop commencement, Rs 4,000 during harvesting, and Rs 4,000 during Pongal. Further, he said Vahana Mitra scheme will be extended to those who own and operate trucks and tippers. He added those who take bank loans to purchase auto, taxi, and lorry will only have to pay 6% interest for up to Rs 3 lakh and the remaining interest will be borne by the government. Additionally, he announced that outsourced, Anganwadi and Asha workers, who earn up to Rs 25,000 per month, will be eligible for all Navaratnalu schemes related to health, education, and housing. Jagan said hamlets with 50% SC population and having more than 500 houses, belonging to SCs, will be made special village panchayats. He assured that the construction of the Polavaram irrigation project, 17 medical colleges, four ports, 10 fishing harbours, six fish landing centres and Bhogapuram International Airport will be completed in the next five years. On the issue of the capital city, Jagan made it clear that once he forms government after the elections, Visakhapatnam will be the executive capital and the State will be administered from there. Visakhapatnam will be developed as a growth engine. Amaravati will be developed as the legislative capital and Kurnool as the judiciary capital, he asserted. The YSRC chief also announced that key welfare schemes such as YSR Cheyutha, Kapu Nestam, EBC Nestam, Aasara, Zero Interest Loans to self-help groups, Kalyanamastu, Shaadi Tohfa, Matsyakara Bharosa, Law Nestham, Nethanna Nestam, Naadu Nedu in education and health sector will be implemented the way they have been for the last five years. Welfare Amma Vodi hiked to Rs 17,000 from Rs 15,000 Rythu Bharosa increased to Rs 16,000 from Rs 13,500/ year Pension Kanuka hiked to Rs 3,500 from Rs 3,000 per month Loan limit under Jagananna Thodu increased to Rs 15,000 from Rs 10,000 Rs 5 lakh insurance for families of gig workers in event of accidental death Infrastructure Industrial Park to be established in each district via PPP model World-class sports stadium to be set up in Visakhapatnam Bhogapuram Intl Airport to be completed with outlay of Rs 4,592 cr Rs 2,000 cr initial investment to transform headquarter in each district as a modern Smart City MIG layouts to be built in urban areas with initial corpus of Rs 2k cr Vizag to be elevated into a world-class mega city, positioning it as a premier finance & fintech hub of India & the world
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.
Fists Fly as Poll Campaigning Turns Ugly in Tirupati
Tirupati : The holy city of Tirupati witnessed unsavoury scenes on Saturday as campaigning for the upcoming elections descended into violence, with party workers from rival groups exchanging blows in full public view. Chaos erupted in the Giripuram colony when campaigners from the ruling YSRC and the opposition Telugu Desam-Jana Sena-BJP alliance held parallel rallies in the same area, leading to a confrontation as the two groups crossed paths. According to eyewitnesses, the NDA candidate Arani Srinivasulu was in the midst of a door-to-door campaign trail along with supporters when they encountered an equally large contingent of youth, believed to be YSRC activists, who were campaigning in the colony. The two groups confronted each other and tempers flared, with workers eventually resorting to fisticuffs and exchanging blows. Srinivasulu's security team had to intervene to rescue him from the attacks. This is the second such violent incident reported in Tirupati in recent times after a previous face-off at Doddapuram Street. The Tirupati Poura Samajam group strongly condemned the violence and sought strict action against the perpetrators, stating This is a spiritual township, and we won't allow such rowdyism and lawlessness at any cost. Both the YSRC and NDA camps traded accusations, with each claiming the other side initiated the aggression. YSRC leaders accused Srinivasulu's Chittoor goons of attacking their workers, while Srinivasulu warned of stronger retaliation if such attacks persisted, alleging the YSRC was trying to derail the poll process through violence and intimidation. Both the parties also questioned how the police granted permission for both groups to campaign simultaneously in the same area. Srinivasulu's team accused the on-duty officers of turning a blind eye and raised the issue with the district election officer.
Jagans Navaratnalu Plus Manifesto Ups Sops Under Many Schemes
Vijayawada : Chief Minister and YSRC president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has unveiled the highly anticipated YSRC Manifesto 2024 Navaratnalu Plus on Saturday, promising to increase Amma Vodi amount from 15,000 to 17,000 per year, at his Camp Office in Tadepalli. He has continued with enhanced allotments or increased sops schemes like Kapu Nestham, zero interest loans, social security pensions, Rythu Bharosa, YSR Cheyutha, YSR Kapu Nestham, Shadi Tohfa, Housing Scheme and Aarogyasri. Interestingly, to attract Kapu and BC women, Jagan Mohan Reddy announced that 60,000 will be given in eight instalments under Kapu Nestham. He hiked Jagananna Amma Vodi to 85,000 over the next five years under which every mother from an underprivileged background who ensures that her children are attending school will now receive 17,000 per annum, unlike 15,000 per annum previously. Further, the Chief Minister has increased the flagship YSR Pension Kanuka from 3,000 to 3,500 per month, which will be delivered to the doorstep of all elderly, widows and disabled every month. Guaranteed income support of 80,000 will be provided to every farmers family for five years under YSR Rythu Bharosa at the rate of 16,000 per year, up from the previous 13,500. Under YSR Cheyutha, 4560-year-old BCs, SCs, STs and minority elder sisters will be given 75,000 in four instalments over the next five years. Under YSR EBC Nestam, 4560-year-old elder sisters belonging to economically backward classes will be given 60,000 in four instalments over the next five years. YSR Sunna Vaddi, YSR Kalyanamasthu and YSR Shaadi Tohfa schemes will continue as is for the next five years. YSR Free Crop Insurance, Sunna Vaddi Panta Runalu, Input Subsidy, and nine hours of free power supply per day will continue. Construction of food processing units will continue in all 26 districts, along with godowns and cold storages at the assembly constituency-level as per need. Aqua farmers with less than 10 acres land in the aqua zone will continue to avail power at only 1.5 per unit. The financial assistance under Jagananna Chedodu will continue to be 50,000. For employment and skill development of youth in AP, there will be a state-of-the-art Skill University in Tirupati, skill colleges in all 26 districts, and integrated skill hubs in all 175 constituencies to make youth job-ready. There will be a monthly internship of 2,500 for boys and 3,000 for girls while they undergo skill training in the skill institutions mentioned. A Startup Hub and an International VC Mentorship Cell will be set up in Visakhapatnam to unlock the entrepreneurial potential of the states youth. Notifications for competitive exams like Group 1 and Group 2 will be announced on a regular basis, with the exam being conducted according to a schedule similar to that of the UPSC. Families of ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers, and outsourced employees, who earn up to 25,000, will now be eligible to avail benefits of housing, healthcare and education under the Navaratnalu schemes. Revolutionary schemes like Jagananna Vidya Deevena, Vasati Deevena, Videsi Vidya Deevena, Vidya Kanuka, Jagananna Gorumudda, and measures such as tab distribution, IB curriculum and TOEFL, digital classrooms, and English-medium curriculum will continue. Further, upgradation of school infrastructure will go on through Mana Badi Nadu Nedu programme. Welfare hostels will continue to be constructed, ensuring top-notch infrastructure for students.
EC Rejects 1,122 Nominations Filed in AP During Scrutiny
Viijayawada: AP Chief Electoral Officer Mukesh Kumar Meena said that following the scrutiny of nominations filed for the assembly and Lok Sabha elections in Andhra Pradesh on Friday, 503 nominations for 25 parliamentary constituencies (PCs) and 2,705 nominations for 175 assembly constituencies (ACs) have been found valid. In a media release on Saturday, the CEO stated that 183 nominations from PCs and 939 nominations from ACs have been rejected after scrutiny. Mukesh Kumar said total of 686 nominations had been filed for the 25 parliamentary constituencies and 3,644 nominations filed for the 175 assembly constituencies from April 18 to April 25. With regard to parliament elections, Guntur Lok Sabha seat received the highest number of 47 nominations and Srikakulam the lowest 16 nominations. In terms of assembly, Tirupati constituency received the highest 52 nominations. Chodavaram assembly constituency received the least number of eight nominations. The CEO said the last date of withdrawing nominations is April 29. The number of candidates left after withdrawal of nominations, will be considered as candidates for the elections on May 13.
YSRCP and NDA cadre clash in Tirupati
Alliance leaders conspiring to spread fear and violence on polling day, alleges Tirupati MLA Bhumana
Arun access healthcare CMD donates Rs 1 crore to Tirupati trust for Chennai temple construction The Times of India
Sanskrit, sacred conduit to spirituality: Jagdeep Dhankhar
TIRUPATI : Vice-President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar emphasised Sanskrits role as a language of divinity, serving as a sacred conduit to spirituality. Speaking at the third convocation of the National Sanskrit University in Tirupati, he highlighted its pivotal position as a cultural anchor in the modern world. Dhankhar stressed the importance of institutions like the National Sanskrit University in bridging the gap between Sanskrits rich heritage and contemporary academic needs. He called for the development of innovative curricula and interdisciplinary research to ensure Sanskrits preservation for future generations. Encouraging students to view Sanskrit education as a journey of self-discovery, he urged them to become ambassadors for its legacy. Dhankhar underscored the need for utilising digital technologies in preserving ancient manuscripts. Despite the extensive literary corpus of Sanskrit, its integration into mainstream education remains limited. Dhankhar attributed this challenge to a colonialist mindset that overlooks Indian knowledge systems. V-P offers prayers at Tirumala temple Vice-President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar along with his spouse Sudhesh Dhankar, on his maiden visit to Tirumala, offered prayers at Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple on Friday. Earlier, he was received at the temple Mahadwaram by Archakas, TTD Chairman Bhumana Karunakar Reddy and EO AV Dharma Reddy, with ceremonial welcome
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.
Spiritual Tirupati to see spirited 3-corner fight for LS seat
Venkateshwara Swamy Temple in Tirumala (Photo: DC archives) Venkateshwara Swamy Temple in Tirumala (Photo: DC archives) TIRUPATI: Tirupati Lok Sabha constituency will witness an intense three-cornered contest between ruling YSR Congress Party's sitting MP Dr. Maddila Gurumurthy, Bharatiya Janata Party's V. Varaprasad, who recently quit YSRC, and veteran former Congress MP Chinta Mohan. YSRC candidates V. Varaprasad and Balli Durga Prasad Rao respectively had won the 2014 and 2019 parliamentary general elections. Durga Prasads death in September 2020 following the Covid-19 attack necessitated the 2021 Tirupati by-election, which had also been won by YSRCs Dr. Gurumurthy. Historically, Telugu Desam Party has found no success in Tirupati constituency since 1984. TDP has repeatedly lost the seat despite alliances, including three times with BJP. In 2024 elections, the ruling party has re-nominated its sitting MP Dr. Gurumurthy from the Tirupati Lok Sabha constituency. The doctor-turned politician has shed his low-profile academic image and recast himself as a strong development activist. Having brought several infrastructure projects in the Tirupati region, the YSRC candidate hopes to win a full term from the constituency he had won in a by-election. In a surprise move, BJP has picked up as its candidate Varaprasad, who recently left YSRC. He won the Tirupati LS seat YSRC ticket in 2014. He moved to Gudur assembly seat in 2019. After being denied a ticket in 2024 polls, Varaprasad quit YSRC and immediately joined BJP. The saffron party hopes his organisational experience and support from its allies TD and Jana Sena will help Varaprasad win the seat. YSRC is, however, describing Varaprasad as an opportunist for changing parties just to get a ticket. Six-time Tirupati MP Chinta Mohan is the Congress candidate. He is seeking to recapture his old bastion that he had last won in 2009. Though the share of Congress vote has dwindled after APs bifurcation, the seasoned campaigner remains active in the constituency. He hopes his experience will compensate for his partys fading footprint. While the main battle is between the three contestants, there are smaller parties in fray, like the Liberation Congress Party, represented by former civil servant G.S.R.K. Vijaya Kumar. In other words, Tirupati parliamentary seat is continuing to witness traditional triangular fights with a sprinkling of other players.
Nellores Muslim Vote an X-Factor in a Tight Assembly Contest
Election Commission's Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP). Election Commission's Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP). Tirupati: As the campaigning is intensifying for Nellore City assembly seat, the spotlight has turned to the 53,000-strong Muslim electorate out of a total 2.37 lakh voters. This electorate could be decisive in the triangular fight for the constituency between ruling YSR Congress, opposition Telugu Desam, and the CPM nominee of INDIA alliance. Incumbent city deputy mayor Mohammed Khaleel Ahmed, a prominent Muslim face, is the YSRC candidate. His community's support is crucial for him, so that YSRC could retain the seat. However, the entry of CPM's Mulam Ramesh has threatened to split the Muslim vote bank in areas like Gurralamadugu Sangam, Sundaraiah Nagar, Janda street and Mansur Nagar, where the Left still has ideological support. CPM candidate's presence is an interesting twist in the traditional YSRC-TD battle. Though the two parties are main contenders, the CPM candidate could take votes from both parties, especially in Muslim areas, notes a political observer. For TD, winning the Nellore City seat is crucial. Its candidate, ex-minister Dr. P. Narayana, narrowly lost in 2019 despite polling 46 per cent of votes. This time, certain ruling YSRC leaders have shifted to the Telugu Desam. The opposition party also has the backing of the influential Anam family. The YSRC candidate could also face a challenge from ex-Nellore mayor Sk. Abdul Aziz, who could sway Muslims towards the TD. Another risk factor for the ruling party candidate is Roop Kumar Yadav, who has defected from YSRC and is backing TD's MP nominee Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy.
950 candidates to race for 17 MP posts from Telangana
Tirupati district as political parties are accusing their rivals of manipulations in the electoral rolls for the 2024 general elections. (Representational DC Image) Tirupati district as political parties are accusing their rivals of manipulations in the electoral rolls for the 2024 general elections. (Representational DC Image) Hyderabad: The returning officers on Friday allowed the nominations of around 950 candidates, which include those filed by candidates belonging to major political parties. They rejected the nominations of at least 400 candidates till 11 pm on Friday. Scrutiny of nominations is still going on. As many as 1,488 candidates have filed nominations in 17 Lok Sabha constituencies in Telangana. Out of 114 nominations were filed in Adilabad, 91 nominations were accepted and 23 were rejected. Key contestants are Congress candidate Athram Suguna, BJP candidate G Nagesh and BRS candidate Athram Sukku. In Chevella, 88 nominations were filed. Out of which, 10 nominations were accepted by the ROs. In Bhongir, a total of 114 nominations were filed. Out of this, 91 were allowed and 23 rejected. The key candidates are Congress candidate Chamala Kiran Kumar Reddy, BJP candidate Boora Narsaiah Goud and BRS candidate Kyama Mallesh. In Hyderabad, a total 85 nominations were filed. While 58 of them were accepted, 27 were rejected. Congress candidate Mohammed Waliullah Sameer, BJP candidate Madhavi Latha and AIMIM candidate Asaduddin Owaisi are key contestants. In Karimnagar, 94 nominations were filed. Of which, 64 nominations were allowed and 30 nominations were rejected. In Khammam, 56 nominations out of a total 72 were accepted, while 16 were rejected. In Malkajgiri, RO received 177 nominations. Of which, 62 were accepted and 92 were rejected. In Secunderabad, a total of 75 nominations were filed. Sixty-two nominations were accepted and 13 were rejected. In Nalgonda, 63 nominations were accepted and 51 nominations were rejected. The total nominations received in this constituency stood at 114.
Are you craving a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life? Perhaps it's time to embark on a spiritual journey to some of the most breathtaking temples. As summer approaches, the weather becomes ideal for exploration and introspection. Here are some must-visit pilgrimage destinations where you can immerse yourself in tranquility and spirituality. 1. Varanasi: The Spiritual Heart of India Varanasi, also known as Kashi, holds a special place in Hinduism. Situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges River, this ancient city is revered for its ghats, where pilgrims gather to perform rituals and seek blessings. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a highlight of any visit to Varanasi. 2. Rishikesh: Yoga Capital of the World Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh is renowned for its ashrams and yoga centers. The city attracts spiritual seekers from around the globe who come to meditate, practice yoga, and seek enlightenment. The Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, amidst lush greenery, offers a tranquil setting for introspection. 3. Amarnath: A Journey to the Ice Lingam For devotees of Lord Shiva, the Amarnath Cave Temple in Jammu and Kashmir is a sacred pilgrimage site. Accessible only during the summer months, the temple is nestled in the Himalayas and houses an ice lingam, which forms naturally inside the cave. The trek to Amarnath is not just a physical journey but also a test of one's faith and endurance. 4. Puri: Land of Jagannath Rath Yatra Puri, located on the eastern coast of India, is famous for the Jagannath Temple and its annual Rath Yatra, or chariot festival. The temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and attracts millions of devotees every year. The pristine beaches of Puri offer a serene backdrop for spiritual contemplation. 5. Tirupati: Seek Blessings at the Venkateswara Temple Tirupati, nestled in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh, is home to the renowned Venkateswara Temple. Dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, this temple is one of the wealthiest and most visited religious sites in the world. The divine atmosphere and stunning architecture make it a must-visit destination for devotees. 6. Badrinath: Gateway to Salvation Located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, Badrinath is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites. The Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is nestled amidst the snow-capped Himalayas and is believed to be the abode of Lord Badrinath during the summer months. The tranquil surroundings and spiritual aura make it a haven for seekers of divine blessings. 7. Kedarnath: Serenity Amidst the Mountains Another gem of the Char Dham circuit, Kedarnath is situated at an altitude of 3,583 meters in the Himalayas. The Kedarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is surrounded by breathtaking peaks and is accessible via a challenging trek or helicopter ride. The journey to Kedarnath is not just a physical endeavor but also a soul-stirring experience. 8. Dwarka: City of Lord Krishna Dwarka, located on the western coast of India in Gujarat, is believed to be the ancient kingdom of Lord Krishna. The Dwarkadhish Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, stands as a testament to the city's rich heritage and spiritual significance. The serene beaches and vibrant culture of Dwarka attract devotees and tourists alike. Make Your Plans Today: Embrace the Spiritual Journey As the summer sun beckons, why not embark on a pilgrimage to these sacred temples? Whether you seek solace, enlightenment, or simply a break from routine, these destinations offer a perfect blend of spirituality and tranquility. So pack your bags, prepare your prayers, and set out on a journey of self-discovery and divine connection. People of this zodiac sign will be worried today due to children or education, know your horoscope Your day is going to start like this today, know your horoscope Today is going to be like this for Gemini, know your horoscope....
How the world's richest Hindu temple earns and spends money
Despite a steep surge in the price of the precious yellow metal, devotees remain undeterred when it comes to extending gold as donation to Tirupati Balaji at Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) , the world's richest Hindu temple.
Special trains to be operated between Tirupati and Srikakulam, Kochuveli and Baruani to clear summer rush The Hindu
YSRC, TDP cadres clash, pelt stones in Tirupati
TIRUPATI : Tension prevailed in Tirupati as cadres of the ruling YSRC and Opposition TDP clashed outside the Revenue Divisional Officers (RDO) office in Tirupati on Thursday when candidates of both parties arrived one after the other to file their nomination papers to contest from Chandragiri Assembly constituency. Chaos ensued when workers of both parties started pelting stones at each other. Police personnel intervened to disperse the clashing groups and restore order. While the YSRC has fielded Chevireddy Mohith Reddy, son of two-time Chandragiri MLA Chevireddy Bhaskar Reddy, the TDP has nominated Pulivarthi Nani. The contenders arrived at the RDO office simultaneously, accompanied by large groups of party activists, despite restrictions on large gatherings near the nomination venue. According to eyewitnesses, Nani arrived on a motorcycle just as Mohith and his father were leaving from the RDO office. Clashes reportedly erupted when Bhaskar Reddys car was allegedly blocked by TDP workers, leading to stone pelting between the two sides. Later, Mohith Reddy accused TDP workers of orchestrating violence to deceive the public. He stated that YSRC does not engage in such tactics to disrupt peaceful elections. Dismissing the allegations, Nani charged the YSRC workers with attempting to obstruct him from filing his nomination. He asserted that the TDP activists will continue to strive for his victory without fearing the conspiracies by Bhaskar Reddy. Internal strife worsens in Sullurpeta In another instance, internal rivalry within the ruling YSRC in the Sullurpeta segment came to the fore when two leaders clashed in front of sitting MLA Kiliveti Sanjeevaiah during his election rally in Sullurpeta town. The incident occurred when Sanjeevaiah arrived in Sullurupeta to file his nomination papers. As he was travelling in his campaign vehicle, local leader Kalathuru Shekhar Reddy boarded the vehicle and demanded Nellore District Cooperative Central Bank (NDCCB) chairman Kamireddy Satyanarayana Reddy to step down. Tensions flared as Shekhar Reddy confronted Satyanarayana Reddy. A two-time MLA, Sanjeevaiah is vying for a hat-trick victory in Sullurpeta. Recently, internal rivalry in the constituency has become a worrying factor for the ruling party. Satyanarayna Reddy has been accused of alienating key party leaders. Pointing out past differences between Satyanarayana Reddy and Sanjeevaiah, party workers and the public are questioning whether the NDCCB chairman is actually loyal to the party or acting out of personal vendetta.
TTD Completes Exchange of Rs 3.2 cr Worth Demonetized Rs 2,000 Notes
Tirupati: The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), which manages the world-renowned Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala, has successfully exchanged demonetized Rs 2,000 notes worth Rs 3.2 crore with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). According to sources on Thursday, the exchange process took place in five phases, starting from October 8, 2023 and continued till March 22, 2024, following the RBI's decision to discontinue the exchange of Rs 2,000 notes from October 7, 2023. Despite the RBI's move, devotees continued to deposit Rs 2,000 notes in the temple's sacred hundi. Recognizing the significance of these offerings, the TTD approached the RBI authorities, requesting them to facilitate the exchange of the demonetized notes. Responding favourably to the TTD's request, the RBI representatives worked closely with the temple authorities to ensure a smooth exchange process. Over the course of five phases, the TTD exchanged a total of Rs 3.2 crore worth of Rs 2,000 notes, which had been deposited by devotees in the hundi.
Clashes erupt as rival candidates file nominations in Chandragiri
Tirupati: Violence erupted as candidates of the Telugu Desam and YSRC arrived at the RDO office on Thursday to file their nominations for the Assembly polls in Chandragiri. Tension mounted outside the office when the TDs candidate Pulivarthi Nani and YSRC's Chevireddy Mohith Reddy reached the RDO office around the same time to the accompaniment of large groups of their supporters. Despite EC restrictions on large gatherings near the nomination venue, the police could not stop the swelling crowds of political activists from approaching the RDO office. Verbal arguments between rival sides quickly escalated into stone-pelting and clashes between TD and YSRC workers. According to eyewitnesses, Nani and his supporters arrived on motorcycles just as vehicles carrying Mohith and his father Chevireddy Bhaskar Reddy were leaving the spot after filing the nomination papers. Bhaskar Reddy's car was reportedly blocked by TD workers after Mohith Reddy completed the process. This led to stone-pelting between the two sides. Mohith later alleged that the TD workers resorted to violence. The development work done by chief minister Jagan Reddy has brought us closer to the people. The YSRC does not have to indulge in violence to gain the upper hand in polls, he stressed. Nani refuted the allegations. He claimed that YSRC workers tried to stop him from filing his nomination. No matter what the threats, our workers will work hard without fear, he said, dismissing the allegations of a conspiracy by the TD to start a clash. Meanwhile, in Sullurpet, rifts within the YSRC spilled over to the streets. Two leaders clashed during MLA Kiliveti Sanjeevaiah's nomination rally. It started when YSRC leader Kalathuru Sekhar Reddy boarded Sanjeevaiah's campaign vehicle and entered into a verbal altercation with NDCCB chairman Kamireddy Satyanarayana Reddy, demanding his resignation from the party. Sanjeevaiah had a tough time pacifying both leaders.
YSRC, TD hold mammoth poll rallies in Chandragiri
Tirupati: The Chandragiri Assembly constituency in this district experienced a show of strength as candidates of the YSRC and Telugu Desam took out large rallies ahead of their nomination-filing process on Thursday. Thousands of party supporters thronged the streets as YSRC's Chevireddy Mohith Reddy and TD's Pulivarthi Nani led separate rallies through the city before submitting their nominations. Mohith Reddy, son of two-time Chandragiri MLA Chevireddy Bhaskar Reddy, was accompanied by senior YSRC leaders including TTD chairman Bhumana Karunakar Reddy, tourism minister R.K. Roja and sitting MLA Bhaskar Reddy. For Nani, facing Mohith Reddy, the rally saw participation from TD's Chittoor LS candidate Daggumalla Prasad Rao and TD leader Badi Sudha Yadav among others. The high-decibel campaign underscores the prestige the battle holds for the two parties in this constituency, which has been a YSRC stronghold. While Mohith Reddy is making his electoral debut, his father Bhaskar Reddy had defeated Nani with a record margin of 41,755 votes in 2019. Chandragiri holds great significance for the TD too. This is party president Chandrababu Naidus home turf. His native Naravaripalle village is located here. However, the party has attempted to make inroads into the Congress and YSRC support centres. Naidu had won this seat on a Congress ticket in 1978 but shifted base to Kuppam after losing the polls there in 1983. Since then, Chandragiri has largely remained a Congress bastion until the YSRC captured the seat. As nominations closed, both Mohith Reddy and Nani exuded confidence about their win. While the YSRC banked on the party's welfare agenda and the Jagan Reddy governments performance, Nani anchored his hopes on anti-incumbency factor and the promise of TD's super six sops to win votes. Political observers view the Chandragiri battle as a litmus test for the Chevireddy family, which is keen on continuing its hold over the constituency. For the TD, wresting it from the YSRC would be a symbolic victory in Naidu's home turf.
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.
Focus of young voters is on employment, healthcare and equal development
Not satisfied with the quality of healthcare being provided at hospitals: Tirupati, a 25-year-old student.
Andhra Pradesh: Affidavits reveal affluence of nominees
Gudivada Amarnath, YSRC The IT Minister transitioned from the Congress to the TDP, before joining the YSRC in 2014. Elected from Anakapalle in the 2019 elections, he carries on the political legacy of his father Gurunadha Rao. He is in the fray from Gajuwaka. He and his family assets are worth Rs 10,55,93,572, including Rs 3,64,68,272 movable and Rs 6,91,25,300 immovable. The liabilities of the family are shown at Rs 93,16,395. He has no pending cases against him. Muttamsetti Srinivasa Rao, YSRC An educationalist turned politician, he was elected from Bheemili Assembly constituency for the second time in 2019. He won the seat in 2009 on PRP ticket. Now, he is contesting from the same constituency. He and his family own assets worth Rs 40,93,44,680, including Rs 10,26,91,180 movable and Rs 30,66,53,500 immovable, besides having liabilities of Rs 1,13,32,141. He has no pending cases against him. Chevireddy Bhaskar Reddy, YSRC He is a two time MLA from Chandragiri Assembly constituency in Tirupati district. He is in the poll fray from Ongole Lok Sabha constituency now as part of the YSRC poll strategy to make a clean sweep. His total assets stand at Rs 16,55,37,612, including Rs 7,75,37,612 movable and Rs 8,80,00,000 immovable. His liabilities are shown at Rs 8,57,60,196. He has 11 pending cases registered against him. Nandigam Suresh, YSRC The sitting Bapatla MP was born to a poor agriculture labourer family. A close associate of Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, he is contesting Bapatla (SC reserved) Lok Sabha constituency for the second consecutive time. He and his family assets stand at Rs 2,74,75,236, including Rs 1,07,14,436 movable and Rs 1,67,60,800 immovable. His total liabilities are put at Rs 86,25,319. He has one pending case against him. Tenneti Krishna Prasad, TDP The former DGP is in the fray from Bapatla Lok Sabha constituency. He is said to have aspired for BJP ticket from Warangal. As he failed to get the BJP ticket, the ex-DGP joined the TDP. His family assets are worth Rs 16,11,57,943, including Rs 3,28,82,943 movable and Rs 12,82,75,000 immovable, besides total liabilities of Rs 1,94,00,000. He has no pending cases against him. Poluboina Anil Kumar Yadav, YSRC A two-time YSRC MLA from Nellore City Assembly constituency has been fielded from Narasaraopet Lok Sabha segment. A dentist by profession, he entered politics and unsuccessfully contested in the 2009 elections on Congress ticket. His family assets are worth Rs 11,06,67,086, including Rs 4,54,31,486 movable and Rs 6,52,35,600 immovable, besides liabilities of Rs 2,00,75,212. He has one pending case against him. Nadendla Manohar, JSP An MBA graduate from Osmania University, he won as an MLA from Tenali constituency in 2004 and 2009 elections. He resigned from Congress and joined Jana Sena in 2018, and became the party Political Affairs Committee chairperson. He is in the fray from Tenali again. He owns assets worth Rs 22,85,91,638, including Rs 3,97,36,638 movable and Rs 18,88,55,000 immovable. His liabilities are shown at Rs 43,96,641. He has one pending case against him. Annabathuni Sivakumar, YSRC The sitting MLA is contesting for the third consecutive time from Tenali Assembly segment. Though his father was a former TDP MLA, he joined the YSRC. He lost the election against Alapati Rajendra Prasad of TDP in 2014. In 2019, he defeated the same opponent with a huge majority. He and his family own assets worth Rs 41,68,73,382, including Rs 6,95,49,332 movable and Rs 34,73,24,050 immovable, besides liabilities of Rs 12,46,75,818.
PM Modi to campaign in Andhra Pradesh on May 3, 4
VIJAYAWADA : Giving the much needed boost to the saffron party, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will conduct electioneering for the candidates of the tripartite alliance for two days. BJP State vice-president Vetukuri Suryanarayana Raju said the Prime Minister would tour the State on May 3 and 4. According to party leaders, the itinerary would be planned in the next couple of days by the State leadership. The national leadership has just given us the days when the Prime Ministers programmes could be accommodated. We are chalking out the tour schedule, the leaders said. Sources said the State unit had earlier sent a proposal for the PM to address meetings at four places. The BJP is contesting six MP and 10 MLA seats in the State along with the TDP and JSP. Modi had earlier addressed a public meeting at Chilakaluripet after the alliance was announced. We are planning two or three public meetings and a roadshow of the Prime Minister in which the alliance partners will also participate, the sources said. Modi is likely to campaign in Rajahmundry, Anakapalle and Rajampet where the partys candidates are contesting. He may also campaign in Vijayawada Lok Sabha constituency where TDP candidate Kesineni Sivanath (Chinni) is in the fray. BJPs YS Chowdary is contesting from Vijayawada West constituency. Sources said that the party had initially planned Modis campaign in Tirupati, from where it is contesting and won the Lok Sabha seat earlier, but later favoured Rajampet. The BJP is of the view that Modis campaign in Rajampet would boost the party prospects where Kiran Kumar Reddy is pitted against MP PV Midhun Reddy.
Many file nominations, declare assets
Tirupati district as political parties are accusing their rivals of manipulations in the electoral rolls for the 2024 general elections. (Representational DC Image) Tirupati district as political parties are accusing their rivals of manipulations in the electoral rolls for the 2024 general elections. (Representational DC Image) Hyderabad: With the last date for filing nominations coming to an end on Thursday, many candidates from different political parties filed their nominations on Wednesday along with affidavits declaring their assets. Bhongir Congress candidate Chamala Kiran Kumar Reddy declared his assets, which included assets worth`34 crore, and liabilities to the tune of Rs three crore. This included Rs 22.23 crore worth properties, while his wife had properties worth`12.07 crore. Senior Congress leader K. Jana Reddy filed his nomination for the Nalgonda Lok Sabha seat and declared properties worth Rs 26 crore. Jana Reddy's son K. Raghuveer after filing his nomination declared that he possessed Rs 35 crore worth properties and he had liabilities to the tune of Rs 17 crore. Khammam Congress nominee Ramasahayam Raghuram Reddy filed his nominations and declared that he possessed Rs 40 crore worth properties, while the Congress candidate for the Secunderabad seat Danam Nagender said he possessed Rs 80 crore worth properties. The Hyderabad BJP candidate Madhavi Latha Kompella declared assets worth Rs 264 crore. According to the affidavit, a case was registered against her for her gesture of drawing an imaginary arrow and shooting at a masjid at Siddiamber bazar. While Latha possessed assets worth Rs 38 crore, her businessman-husband Viswanath Kompella possessed assets worth Rs 180 crore. Her three daughters have investments and shares in several companies to the overall tune of 45.84 crore. The Medak BRS candidate P. Venkatram Reddy possessed Rs 62 crore worth properties. While his wife possessed properties worth Rs 24 crore, he had Rs 39 crore worth properties.
TTD Chief Says Tirupati Voters Will Reject NDA Alliance
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) chairman Bhumana Karunakar Reddy Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) chairman Bhumana Karunakar Reddy Tirupati: Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) chairman Bhumana Karunakar Reddy has branded the NDA alliance candidate Arani Srinivasulu as an outsider who wouldn't care about the needs of local residents. Speaking to media on Wednesday, Karunakar Reddy, the sitting MLA from Tirupati, maintained that Srinivasulu is representing an opportunist Telugu Desam-Jana Sena-BJP front, an illegal which has betrayed the people of Tirupati in the past. He maintained that voters are determined not to repeat their mistake this time and elect the YSRC candidate from the Tirupati constituency Bhumana Abhinay Reddy, who is the deputy mayor of Tirupati Municipal Corporation and son of Karunakar Reddy. The TTD chairman praised Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy as saviour who has implemented numerous welfare schemes for the poor. Jagan is the undisputed choice of masses, regardless of attacks on him by his hateful adversaries, he remarked. He said people have had enough of Chandrababu and JS chief Pawan Kalyans derogatory campaign through the yellow media. On polling day, they will teach these power-hungry politicians a crushing lesson, Karunakar Reddy added.
Vice President to visit Tirupati and Hyderabad on April 26
New Delhi: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar will visit Tirupati and Hyderabad on April 26, it was announced on Wednesday. A statement released by his office said that the Vice President will begin his visit to Andhra Pradesh by offering prayers and having darshan at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple at Tirumala, Tirupati. Also ReadExplain Kaleshwaram 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 .
Term turncoat' leads to a war of words in Nellore
Tirupati: The electoral battle between ruling YSR Congress and opposition Telugu Desam in Nellore district has turned incendiary after YSRCs Nellore Lok Sabha candidate V. Vijayasai Reddy used the term urncoats to describe former ruling party leaders Anam Ramanarayana Reddy, Kotamreddy Sridhar Reddy, Mekapati Chandrasekhar Reddy and Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy who have now shifted to the TD in Nellore district. The usage of the term has provoked a sharp rebuttal from Ramanarayana Reddy, formerly a minister and now the Telugu Desam candidate from Atmakur assembly constituency.Ramanarayana Reddy charged that Vijayasai Reddy, as the chartered accountant of late chief minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy, misled YSR's son Jagan Mohan Reddy into entering illegal business dealings through shell companies, precipitating money laundering probes that have destabilised the YSR family.Politicians can switch parties to serve their constituencies' interests. But as a CA, Vijayasai Reddy cannot justify his professional misconduct, Ramanarayana retorted, while defending his shift to the TDP.Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy, TD's Nellore Lok Sabha candidate, has launched an equally scathing counterattack. He complained that even though he had been loyal to the party, YSRC leaderships oppressive control caused him considerable discomfort.YSRC has become a dictatorial party ruled by one individual. Even long-term loyal members like me had no voice in important decisions. They have killed inner-party democracy, he observed. Vemireddy accused YSRC's government of using force against those who disagreed with it. This has institutionalised insecurity among common citizens. He expressed confidence that the victory of TD-led NDA alliance will bring in development.
Snooping Case: Red Corner Notice Issued Against Prabhakar Rao
Hyderabad: State police have issued a red corner notice against former SIB chief T. Prabhakar Rao, the prime accused in the phone tapping case. This is the first red corner notice against any officer or politician from among the names revealed by the four arrested former police officers during their interrogation. As of now the present investigation team, headed by S.M. Vijay Kumar, DCP (west zone), will continue to probe the case, police sources confirmed. Prabhakar Rao was in Tirupati district when Vijay Kumars special team arrested D. Praneeth Rao from his house in Srinagar Colony, Rajanna Sircilla district. Reliable sources disclosed that Prabhakar Rao had in the first week of December instructed Radha Kishan and Praneeth Rao to destroy technical evidence from SIB units in the city, Warangal and Rajanna Sircilla districts. By December 4, over 70 per cent of technical evidence was destroyed from the SIB-SOT war rooms. After getting confirmation that the evidence that could land him in trouble had been destroyed, Prabhakar Rao escaped to the US without informing even his family members, reliable sources pointed out. His mobile phone was switched off. Meanwhile, the investigation teams retrieved data from the dumped and damaged devices from SIB-SOT war rooms. These will be used against the accused during prosecution, reliable police sources said. The teams probing the illegal phone tapping are waiting for Prabhakar Rao to record his statements. All former police officers who have been arrested put the blame on Prabhakar Rao while stating that they had acted on his instructions. As of now we have just oral statements. A suspect or accused can mention any political leaders name in order to save his skin but technically and logically it is very important to prove it during the prosecution, a police officer said. During investigation, the police found that Prabhakar Rao was granted six months visit visa to the US. Two months have lapsed. Where will he go after another four months? He has to return and face charges, said a police officer. Meanwhile, the police have informed US immigration officials in Texas about Prabhakar Raos involvement in criminal cases. His movements in the US are under 24x7 surveillance, sources said.
Fahadh Faasil on difference between Pushpa and Aavesham
Fahadh Faasil, the versatile actor known for his captivating performances, recently discussed the distinctive nature of his films Pushpa 2 and Aavesham. With Aavesham emerging as a blockbuster in Malayalam cinemas, Faasil is actively promoting the film and sharing intriguing insights. In a recent interview, Faasil highlighted the contrast between the two movies. He explained that Pushpa 2 features a universal storyline that can be adapted to various settings, while Aavesham is deeply rooted in the city of Bangalore. Faasil expressed that the narrative of Pushpa: The Rise or The Rule could be transposed to any forest backdrop, whereas Aavesham is intricately linked to Bangalore, making it essential to the story's essence. He highlighted the challenges of accurately depicting the geographical and cultural aspects of a specific location, especially in commercial films like Aavesham. He said, Pushpa 2 boasts a universal story adaptable to any setting. But Aavesham is intrinsically tied to the city of Bangalore. Pushpa: The Rise or The Rule could be told with any forest backdrop, whereas we cant narrate Aavesham without the Bangalore backdrop. Aavesham, though commercial movies, are very tough to make as they need to get the total geography right. However, it's worth noting that red-sander smuggling predominantly occurs in South Indian forests, particularly in Tirupati, making it challenging to envision a different backdrop for Pushpa. Perhaps, Sukumar, the director, didn't delve into the complete storyline of Pushpa with Fahadh Faasil. Many are commenting that since the actor doesn't know the entire story, he expressed himself in that manner. It's evident that the story of Pushpa can only be set against the backdrop of Tirupati. More about Pushpa 2 The sequel to the 2021 film Pushpa: The Rise, titled Pushpa 2: The Rule, features Allu Arjun in the lead role as Sandalwood smuggler Pushparaj. The movie is set to continue the story of Pushparaj and his endeavors, with SP Bhanwar Singh Shekawat IPS hot on his trail. Returning to the cast are actors Fahadh Faasil, Rashmika Mandanna, Sunil, Anasuya Bharadwaj, Rao Ramesh, Dhananjaya, and others reprising their roles from the first installment. Additionally, new additions to the cast include Jagapathi Babu and Prakash Raj in significant roles. Pushpa 2: The Rule boasts a considerable budget, positioning it as one of the most expensive Indian films to date. The movie has already generated significant buzz with record-breaking pre-business deals.
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam Special Tickets For July Now Available | Check Price & Other Details Times Now
Special Darshan Tickets At Tirupati Temple For July Now Open; Heres How To Book
The pilgrims can visit the official website of TTD to book the tickets.
Vice-President to visit Tirupati and Hyderabad on 26th April 2024 - PIB
Vice-President to visit Tirupati and Hyderabad on 26th April 2024 PIB
Discover 7 Hidden Gems In Tirupati Beyond The Usual Temples - India.com
Discover 7 Hidden Gems In Tirupati Beyond The Usual Temples India.com
Summer Vacation Begins for Schools in Telangana
School students play outside the venue for film screening for the 18th International Children's Film Festival, in Hyderabad on Monday. DC/S. Surender Reddy Hyderabad: With the commencement of summer holidays for schools from Wednesday, several students packed their bags in their cupboards and enjoyed with their friends and family members, playing indoor games. The School Education department has announced summer holidays for all the government schools from April 24 and the schools would reopen on June 12. Keeping in view of scorching heat, the family members did not allow children to venture out and rather asked them to stay at home playing indoor games. Since the State government declared holidays, most families planned to go on vacation to visit hill stations to enjoy the cool climate. A few more families planned to visit popular religious places especially Tirupati in two Telugu States, while others are busy in taking part in wedding arrangements of their relatives. Some parents prepared their itinerary in such a manner that their travel schedule should not disturb summer camps of their children.
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam offering July special entry tickets for Rs 300. Check details The Economic Times
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam offering July special entry tickets for Rs 300. Check details
TTD offers special entry tickets for July at Rs 300/-. Booking for various Seva tickets and accommodation opens on April 24, 2024. Devotees can apply through the official website for a glimpse of Lord Venkateshwara.
Celestial bath marks grand finale of Tirumala Vasanthotsavam
Tirupati: The annual three-day Vasanthotsavam festival at Tirumala concluded in grand style on Tuesday with the sacred Snapana Tirumanjanam ceremony. During the ceremony, the nine processional deities were given a celestial bath at the Vasantha Mandapam. Devotees thronged the venue to witness the auspicious event, which marked the culmination of the spring festival celebrations at the renowned Tirumala Venkateswara Temple. As part of the ritual, the utsava murtis (processional deities) of Lord Malayappa Swamy, his consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi, Lord Rama, Lakshmana, Sita, Hanuman, Lord Krishna, and Rukmini Devi were brought in a grand procession to the Vasanthotsava Mandapam. Accompanied by Vedic hymns, priests bathed and adorned the deities during the Snapana Tirumanjanam ceremony, creating a divine spectacle for the thousands of devotees who had gathered for the occasion. The Jeeyar Swamijis of Tirumala personally oversaw the two-hour-long ceremony held in the afternoon. Following the celestial bath, the murtis were carried back to the sanctum sanctorum of the main temple in an elaborate procession atop three golden palanquins, leaving the devotees awestruck. TTD executive officer A.V. Dharma Reddy and other temple officials participated in the grand finale celebrations of the Vasanthotsavam.
Indian Railways introduces Economy Meals at Rs 20 for general passengers
VIJAYAWADA: To provide quality, affordable and hygienic meals to rail passengers, Indian Railways in collaboration with the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has introduced the concept of Economy Meals. Anticipating the surge in passenger traffic during summer, rail passengers, particularly for those travelling in general coaches, are provided with two types of meals at an affordable cost. These meal counters are now operational at over 100 stations across Indian Railways. On South Central Railway, economy meals are being served at 23 counters in 12 railway stations. These stations include Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Renigunta, Guntakal, Tirupati, Rajahmundry, Vikarabad, Pakala, Dhone, Nandyal, Purna and Aurangabad railway stations. Over Vijayawada Division, the meals are being sold at Vijayawada and Rajahmundry Station Refreshment Rooms and Jan Ahaar units. The initiative offers a two-pronged approach. One can avail Economy Meals, which is priced at Rs 20, providing a satisfying and affordable for passengers on the go. If one seeks a lighter bite, one can opt for Snack Meals priced at Rs 50. Vijayawada DRM Narendra A Patil said these meals are available at counters conveniently located near general second-class (GS) coaches on platforms. He said that the initiative aims to cater to passengers dietary needs while ensuring convenience and affordability during their journey. Earlier, this service was successfully piloted at about 51 stations last year across Indian Railways.
Fire breaks out at plastic godown in Andhra Pradesh's Tirupati
Fire breaks out at plastic godown in Andhra Pradesh's Tirupati A fire broke out at a plastic godown near Renigunta in Andhra Pradesh's Tirupati district during the early hours of Wednesday. Upon receiving the information, fire tenders rushed to the spot and started the fire extinguishing operations. A thick plume of smoke could be seen billowing into the air. It is immediately not known what caused the fire. More details are awaited. (ANI)
SCR and IRCTC launch affordable meal counters across key stations
HYDERABAD: As a part of an Indian Railways initiative, the SCR, along with IRCTC, is providing meals at affordable prices across 23 counters at 12 stations, including Hyderabad and Vikarabad stations. The meals have been named economy and snack meals. While the former is priced at Rs 20, the latter costs Rs 50. These meals, along with water facilities, are available at counters located near general second-class (GS) coaches on platforms. The zone is also providing the meals at Vijayawada, Renigunta, Guntakal, Tirupati, Rajahmundry, Pakala, Dhone, Nandyal, Purna, and Aurangabad railway stations. Based on the success of a pilot project across around 51 stations last year, the Indian Railways decided to expand the programme, with counters operational at over 100 stations and nearly 150 counters in total. The initiative is slated for further growth, encompassing even more stations in the near future.
Andhra Pradesh: Fire breaks out at plastic godown in Tirupati
Tirupati: A fire broke out at a plastic godown near Renigunta in Andhra Pradeshs Tirupati district during the early hours of Wednesday. Upon receiving the information, fire tenders rushed to the spot and started the fire extinguishing operations. A thick plume of smoke could be seen billowing into the air. It is immediately not known 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 .
Family First: Women power takes centre stage in Nellore
Rural Assembly constituency of Pollachi has the most number of women voters Rural Assembly constituency of Pollachi has the most number of women voters Tirupati: Women voters are poised to play a pivotal role in the assembly and Lok Sabha elections in Nellore district. Hence, political parties are pulling out all the stops to woo this critical vote bank. A key strategy they employ is the deployment of women from the candidates' families for door-to-door campaign, aimed at striking a personal chord with the female voters. The district boasts over 9.88 lakh female voters, outnumbering their male counterparts by 41,335. This gender skew has spurred parties to actively involve candidates wives, daughters, daughters-in-laws, and other women relatives onto the campaign front. One such example is Somireddy Sruthi Reddy, daughter-in-law of Telugu Desam party's Sarvepalli candidate Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy. Her oratorial skills and campaign videos that went viral on social media have struck a chord with voters, giving Chandramohans campaign a much-needed boost in his battle against arch-rival and incumbent MLA Kakani Govardhan Reddy. Similarly, Neelima Reddy, daughter of Vemireddy Prashanthi Reddy, TD's Kovur candidate, and Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy, the party's Nellore Lok Sabha candidate, is campaigning extensively in various villages, seeking votes for her parents' victory. In Nellore City, Ponguru Sindhoori and Sharani are actively campaigning for their father P Narayana, the TD candidate, through door-to-door visits and interactions with voters. Likewise, Kotamreddy Sridhar Reddy, the rural segment candidate from the same party, is trying to gain the women's vote with the support of his wife Sujitha and daughters Lakshmi Haindhavi and Sai Vaishnavi. The trend, however, is not limited to any single party. The YSRCs Sarvepalli candidate Kakani Govardhan Reddy has his daughter K Pujitha actively canvassing for his re-election. Nellore Lok Sabha YSRC contender V Vijayasai Reddy has also enlisted the support of his wife Sunanda Reddy in his tough battle against TD candidate Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy. Involving family, especially women, isn't new but this has renewed importance in this election. Earlier, it was mostly the Left parties doing this, noted Dr Ramana Murthy, a political analyst, adding, But now, with winning being a litmus test for Telugu Desam and YSRC, candidates have roped in their wives, daughters and even granddaughters from abroad into the campaigning. Except for one or two constituencies in the district, most candidates have roped in women family members for campaigning. These women relatives can be seen making appeals to female voters to vote for their kin in the electoral fray. Despite their lack of familiarity with local issues or the names of villages, they are campaigning door-to-door in sweltering heat, meeting voters, establishing personal connections and seeking support.
YSRC Leader Quits Party in Udayagiri
Tirupati : A key YSRC leader from Udayagiri constituency, Mettukuru Chiranjeevi Reddy, resigned from the party and his post as chairman of the AP State Police Housing Corporation on Tuesday. Citing personal reasons, Chiranjeevi Reddy announced his resignation from the the YSRC primary membership in his letter addressed to party chief and Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy. The resignation comes as a shock for the YSRC in the Udayagiri constituency of Nellore district where Chiranjeevi Reddy wields a significant influence. Sources close to the former APSPHC chairman revealed that his decision to quit the party stemmed from being denied the Udayagiri Assembly ticket for the upcoming elections. In the last elections, Chiranjeevi Reddy had actively sought the Udayagiri seat, but the ticket went to Chandrasekhar Reddy from the influential Mekapati family instead. To pacify Chiranjeevi Reddy at that time, Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy appointed him as the chairman of the AP State Police Housing Corporation, a position he held for a few years. However, Chiranjeevi Reddy reportedly keen on contesting from Udayagiri this time around, but was denied a ticket once again resulting in his exit from the party.
Jana Sena's Arani Sreenivasulu files nomination at the Tirupati assembly seat
Candidates take out massive rallies before filing nominations across Rayalaseema districts
Candidates from various parties conducted rallies before filing nominations. Arani Sreenivasulu filed in Tirupati. GD Nellore candidate filed. Katasani Ram filed in Kurnool. Adala Prabhakar Reddy filed in Nellore rural.
Indian Railways Introduces Affordable Economy Meals at Select Stations
Hyderabad: The railways will provideeconomymeals at affordable pricesto rail passengersin the summer. The facility will be available at 12stationsnear the general coaches, a statement said. There are two categories, the economy meal which costs `20 and thesnackmeal which comes at `50. Passengers can buy their refreshments directly from these counters, eliminating the need to search for vendors or venture outside the station In the South Central Railway (SCR) zone, the facility will be available atHyderabadandVikarabad in Telangana; Vijayawada, Renigunta, Guntakal, Tirupati, Pakala, Rajahmundry, Dhone and Nandyal in Andhra Pradesh and Purna and Aurangabadin Maharashtra. SCR General ManagerArun Kumar Jainsaid a pilot project of the servicewasrunsuccessfully at 51 stations last year acrosstheIndian Railways. Overall, these meal counters are operational at over 100 stations and nearly 150 counters across Indian Railways, and the facility will be expanded further.
Railway authorities kick-off initiative to keep passengers hydrated amid heat wave in Tirupati
Railway authorities kick-off initiative to keep passengers hydrated amid heat wave in Tirupati The Hindu
Farmers Demand Action As Elephants Rampage Through Chittoor Farms
The elephants were reported to have roamed near the Hosur border on Sunday night, prompting forest officials to issue a high alert in the border villages of Kuppam. (Representational Photo: AFP) The elephants were reported to have roamed near the Hosur border on Sunday night, prompting forest officials to issue a high alert in the border villages of Kuppam. (Representational Photo: AFP) Tirupati: A herd of elephants has turned into a recurring nightmare for farmers in Chittoor district. The massive animals are leaving a path of destruction in their wake, trampling crops and irrigation systems, leaving farmers struggling to protect their livelihoods. Despite desperate pleas and attempts to deter the elephants, the problem persists. Just recently, four elephants caused panic in S. Gollapalli village, Ramakuppam mandal. Fields and vital drip irrigation setups were destroyed, and terrified villagers could only watch helplessly as their precious harvests were devoured and crushed. The forest department seems to turn a blind eye to our plight, lamented a distraught farmer. These elephants roam freely through our fields, and nothing is done to stop them. Exhausted from the backbreaking labour of cultivating their crops, only to see them destroyed, farmers are furious with the authorities. The lack of effective measures to deter the elephants, coupled with the absence of compensation for losses, is pushing them towards a breaking point. With their livelihoods hanging by a thread after each elephant raid, farmers are demanding urgent action before they face even more devastating consequences.
1031 kg Gold offering from devotees worth Rs 773 crore
Ayodhya is not a poll factor in Jammu, the city of temples
JAMMU: The city of temples Jammu will vote in the second phase of polling on April 26. Going by the campaigning of various parties, the issues of development, Article 370 abrogation, peaceful border, taking away of statehood, unemployment are the key factors in the election. The consecration of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya has not found much traction in the ongoing parliamentary polls. The Jammu Lok Sabha seat is spread over four districts of Jammu, Samba, Reasi and an assembly constituency of Rajouri district. As many as 22 candidates are in the fray, but the main contest is between the BJP MP Jugal Kishore and Jammu and Kashmir Congress working president Raman Bhalla. The key contenders are busy organising small street-corner meetings to reach out to the common man. A total of 17,80,738 voters, including 9,21,053 men and 8,59,657 women are eligible to vote for in the constituency. Jammu & Kashmir: High number, yet women fail to make a cut in nomination The BJP has focused its campaign on the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A, the developmental works and public welfare schemes launched post Article 370 repeal, peaceful borders, the decline in militancy, and the end to stone-pelting. The Ram temple issue has also been raised by the party leaders during their campaigns but not very stridently. This is despite the fact that Jammu is known as the city of temples and temples can be found everywhere. We have focused on development. A lot of public-oriented development has taken place in Jammu and Poonch and people are happy. Their problems are being solved. People know that only Prime Minister Narendra Modi can take the country forward and make India Viksit Bharat (developed country), said BJP MP and candidate for Jammu seat Jugal Kishore. On construction of Ram Mandir, he said sentiments of people were associated with the Ayodhya temple and people also remember the construction of it, as well as the scrapping of triple talaq and repeal of Article 370. The Prime Minister inaugurated the Ram temple in Ayodhya in January this year. In 2019, the Supreme Court gave land to Hindus after a protracted legal battle followed by Babri Masjids demolition. The Congress, on the other hand, is focusing its campaign on the fallout of Article 370 abrogation including the snatching of statehood, rise in unemployment and crime. Our campaign focuses on the restoration of statehood, corruption during these years, unemployment and crime, said Congress spokesman Ravindra Sharma. A college teacher, Pankaj Kumar, said religion and politics should not be linked. The construction of Ram temple is very dear to us. It is our religious issue but the polls are not contested on religious lines but contested for roads, electricity, drinking water, development, and job generation, he said. BJP unlikely to contest 3 Valley seats, Shah drops broad hint at Jammu rally We want jobs for our youth. The government that comes into power should evolve such a system that provides employment to the unemployed youth so that they can live a decent life, Kumar added. Rohit Kumar said Jammu comprises a mixed population. Muslims and Hindus have been living in harmony for years and we dont want to hurt this relationship by unnecessarily giving hype to religious issues. He said no doubt the construction of Ram temple is a very historic development and sentiments of Hindu of every part of the country, including Jammu Muslims, are associated with it. When the Ram temple was built, the puja was held here in every area and Muslims also contributed in setting up of pandals and raised our religious flags on their homes to express solidarity with us, Rohit said. According to locals here, even during the land row agitation in 2008, there was communal harmony among Muslims and Hindus in Jammu. It is not the time to play politics on religion. We want our new MP to focus on eliminating the threat of drug addiction and crime by providing jobs to the youth. Jammu was marred by anti-government protests in the past three years, which dented the BJPs image. There were protests by job aspirants after at least three recruitment lists came under the scanner for reported scams. Rising electricity charges and the installation of faulty smart meters also sparked protests. However, the BJPs move to set up a Tirupati Balaji temple amid the scenic Shivalik forests in Majeen, Jammu, and running direct fast trains to Katra, which houses the famous Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, is perceived to have won back some Hindu votes.
Caste polarisation deepens in Tirupati ahead of elections
After Balijas, Yadava and Brahmin leaders extend their support to the TDP-BJP-JSP alliance
VASANTHOTSAVAM BEGINS: TTD, Tirupati - AIMA Media
VASANTHOTSAVAM BEGINS: TTD, Tirupati AIMA Media
Three-Day Vasanthotsavam celebrates spring at Tirumala Temple
Tirupati: The annual three-day Vasanthotsavam festival commenced with religious fervour at the Tirumala temple on Sunday. Traditionally observed on auspicious days in the Chaitra month (March/April), Vasanthotsavam, also known as the Spring Festival, marks the arrival of spring. Legend attributes the festival's inception to King Achyutaraya in the 1460s. It's believed he introduced the fete to celebrate the spring season. Over the three days, Lord Malayappa and his divine consorts receive an aromatic bath, symbolizing a soothing relief from the approaching summer heat. The festivities began with a grand procession carrying the processional deities of Lord Malayappa Swamy and his consorts, Sridevi and Bhudevi, to the beautifully decorated Vasantha Mandapam. Here, the deities received the Snapana Tirumanjanam, a holy bath with aromatic ingredients. As part of the Vasanthotsavam celebrations, the TTD will hold the Swarna Rathotsavam (Golden Chariot procession) on Monday. The event was graced by Tirumala Pedda Jeeyar Swamy, Chinna Jeeyar Swamy, Executive Officer A.V. Dharma Reddy, and other dignitaries.
Tirupati Folk Festival Rescheduled Due to Elections
Tirupati: Ganga Jatara, a folk festival that the state government celebrates annually in Tirupati to honour the local folk Goddess Thataiahagunta Gangamma, younger sister of Lord Venkateswara, has been rescheduled this year due to general elections. The state festival had been originally scheduled from May 7 to May 15, with the key programme being on May 13, when a huge clay idol built in front of the temple is demolished. The festival has been postponed as one of its dates coincides with the polling day in Andhra Pradesh. As per the revised dates issued by Thataiahagunta Gangamma Devasthanam authorities, the nine-day Jatara will instead start on May 14 and conclude on May 22.
All set for Kalyanotsavam of Lord Kodandarama Swamy and Goddess Sitha
Anantapur: Elaborate arrangements were made for the Kalyanotsavam of Lord Kodandarama Swamy and Goddess Sitha at Vontimitta in Kadapa district, it being a state-sponsored event, on Monday. As part of the annual Srirama Navami Brahmotsavalu at Vontimitta, the celestial marriage of lord will be held in full moon light at night, unlike in other temples including at Bhadrachalam. Traffic will be diverted at Vontimitta and the High Way road. Only vehicles carrying the devotees would be allowed in on Monday. Kadapa SP Siddarth Kausal said traffic diversion will be effective from 6am till the completion of celestial marriage at night. Vehicles from Kadapa to Tirupati will be diverted from Alamkhanpalle Junction via Utukur Circle and Rayachoti towards Tirupati. Vehicles coming from Tirupati towards Kadapa will be diverted from Renigunta through Rayachoti, instead of Vontimitta road. Heavy vehicles from Rajampet will be diverted through Rayachoti and motorcycles route will be diverted via Salabad, Ibrahimpet and Madhavaram to avoid traffic problems at Vontimitta temple. The SP said a total of 15 parking places were set up in and around the Vontimitta temple premises for the use of devotees. About five special parking places were set up near Salabad while 10 plots were readied for parking in the places around the venue of Kalyanotsavam. TTD has been conducting the annual brahmotsavalu since 2015 -- after state bifurcation. Vontmitta was recognised as the official venue for the celestial marriage of Lord Srirama after Bhadrachalam was made a part of Telangana. As huge crowds are expected for the celestial marriage of the Lord, TTD and Kadapa district administration have made the necessary arrangements. TTD and state government officials will present traditional silk clothes and talambralu to the lord during the fete.
TTD Scales Financial High With Record Rs 1,161 Cr FDs in FY-2023-24
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). Tirupati: Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), the governing body of the world-renowned Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple atop Tirumala Hills, has set new financial records in the fiscal year 2023-24. The temple trust has made its highest ever fixed deposits of Rs 1,161 crore and received a staggering 1,031 kg gold offering worth around Rs 773 crore from devotees during the fiscal. According to sources, the trust has parked Rs 1,161.08 crore in fixed deposits during 2023-24 - eclipsing its previous highest of Rs 1,153.26 crore set in 2015-16. The TTD's cumulative fixed deposits across banks stand at Rs 13,287.62 crore as of March 31. Over the past 12 years, from 2013 to 2024, barring the Covid-impacted years of 2021 (Rs 270 crore) and 2022 (Rs 274 crore) along with 2019 (Rs 285 crore), TTD has consistently made fixed deposits exceeding Rs 500 crore annually - Rs 608 crore (2013), Rs 970 crore (2014), Rs 961 crore (2015), Rs 1,153 crore (2016), Rs 774 crore (2017), Rs 501 crore (2018), Rs 753 crore (2020) and Rs 757 crore (2023). Meanwhile, various trusts of TTD amassed Rs 5,529.51 crore from devotee contributions till March 31. The interest earnings from them amount to over Rs 1,600 crore per annum. Now the total investments, including fixed deposits and donations received to various trusts together have reached Rs 18,817.13 crore as on March 31,2024. The sacred hill temple premises were also showered with gold offerings touching new peaks in 2023-24. TTD made its highest ever yearly gold deposit of 1,031.30 kg worth approximately Rs773 crore in just 2023 from 'hundi' donations. With this bullion bounty, the temple body's cumulative gold reserves have swelled to 11,329.67 kg, valued at over Rs 8,400 crore at current rates. These financial figures have been made possible by the seemingly endless flow of offerings from devotees into the sacred 'hundi'. On average, the temple receives Rs 1,600 crore in cash donations every year, with monthly cash 'hundi' collections routinely exceeding Rs 100 crore. After meeting all expenditures, the surplus amounts are invested in scheduled banks, said a senior TTD official. Fixed deposits with banks: Up to March 31,2023 Fixed deposits: Rs 12,126.54 crore Trust: Rs 4,670.84 crore Total: Rs 16,797.38 crore Investment during FY 2023-24 Fixed deposits: Rs 1,161.08 crore Trust: Rs 858.67 crore Total: Rs 2,019.75 crore Total investment as on March 31,2024 Fixed deposits: Rs 13,287.62 crore Trust: Rs 5,529.51 crore Total: Rs 18,817.13 crore TTDs gold investments with banks Up to March 31,2023: 10,298.37 kg Investment during FY 2023-24: 1,031.30 kg Total investment as on March 31,2024: 11,329.67 kg 1,031 kg gold takes cumulative gold reserves to 11,329.67 kg
Gold investment scheme: Techie defrauds 13 in Hyderabad
HYDERABAD: A Kondapur-based techie defrauded 13 of his colleagues and their family members to the tune of Rs 6.12 crore by promising them gold at lower rates. Cyberabads Economic Offences Wing (EOW) busted the fraud racket and arrested the accused, Ganta Sreedhar, 40, on charges of cheating and criminal breach of trust. Sreedhars scam came to light after a 62-year-old businessman, Narender Reddy, who lost Rs 1.48 crore in the fraud, complained to the police. According to Narender, Sreedhar worked in a private company at Madhapur for over 12 years and gained the confidence of his colleagues and their family members over the time. Narender got acquainted with Sreedhar at an office party in 2018 and ever since, they have been regularly in contact with each other. Although Sreedhar kept telling Narender about receiving high returns on investing in gold and land, he never wanted to invest in these schemes. However, after seeing the rate of gold increase rapidly in recent times, Narender and his wife wanted to invest in Sreedhars scheme. Immediately, Sreedhar shared a message informing them that if they were going to send money through online bank transactions to either of the two jewellery stores he mentioned, they would get gold at the rate of Rs 5,950 per gram on purchase of gold between 100 and 200 grams and at Rs 5,850 per gram on purchase of 300-500 gm of gold. Sreedhar promised them that their purchased gold would be delivered to them in 25 (+/-) 2 days. However, when the victims started approaching Sreedhar for their gold, he promised to deliver it to them on March 22. But he left the city claiming there was a land issue that he needed to resolve at Tirupati. Thereafter, the victims found that he had vacated his house and switched off his phone. In his official complaint, Narender claimed that there could be more victims to the investment scheme. The EOW police have arrested Sreedhar and are investigating the case for further details.
World's richest Hindu temple, Tirumala Tirupati trust's cash reserves go up to staggering Rs 18817 crore The Times of India
VIJAYAWADA: Life was no bed of roses for Seelam Sandeep Kumar, who was abandoned by his parents at the age of six. What kept him going was his dream of some day working in the bank that he looked at every day while scavenging for food from a dustbin near a restaurant in Vijayawada. His mother, Parvathi was from Kadapa district. She married Sunil, a native of Kolkata. Sandeep was born in Mumbai and raised in Kolkata. However, his mother brought him back to Kadapa when he was just 3, due to harassment by her husband. Parvathi handed over a six-year-old Sandeep to her relatives and left without a word. Sandeep had faced abandonment, rejection and neglect at a very young age. His relatives refused to send him to school, citing financial constraints. He then resolved to earn money to pay for his education. He boarded a train to Tirupati, climbed the Alipiri steps, and ate prasadam distributed by other devotees for sustenance. Language was a challenge as Sandeep was fluent in both Marathi and Bengali and not Telugu. He earned money by selling coconuts at the Dwajasthambam in Tirumala. Unfortunately, it was stolen while he was asleep. After having starved for three days, a devotee offered him a free meal token for Anna Prasadams at the temple. He came to Vijayawada on learning that the Navajeevan Bala Bhavan in the city provided accommodation to orphans. He then began working at a hotel near the railway station. Sandeep found himself right back at square one after the person he entrusted his earnings with fled the orphanage. He then began working with labourers near Eluru canal. He had sustained injuries in a road accident and was admitted to a hospital for treatment. Following this, he joined an Orphan School in Pezzonipet with the help of Thomas Kaushy, founder of Navajeevan. He excelled in the Class X exams at RCM High School. During his free time, he swept train carriages and collected plastic as a ragpicker. Sometimes, he also had to beg to make ends meet. He was able to join Sarada College for intermediate education. Unfortunately, he failed the exams. While dealing with the curveballs life threw at him, Sandeep learnt how to dance. This helped him earn money as he began teaching dance. When a film director encouraged him to test his luck in the film industry, he went to Hyderabad and became an assistant to a dance master in Hyderabad. As Sandeep did not find any success even three years after working in the film industry, he returned to Vijayawada from Hyderabad. As he began settling down in life, he met Rajeswari and later married her, but not without facing challenges. Rajeswaris parents refused to get her married to an orphan. To prove that he was not an orphan, he searched for his mother across the country and luckily found her in Salem, Tamil Nadu. He thus gained the approval of Rajeswaris parents and married her. They are now parents of two children, Sahasra and Harshi. After getting married, he pursued an MBA through distance education while working part-time and gaining knowledge of the stock market. He secured a job at Kotak Bank (Securities wing) in Vijayawada. Reflecting on his journey, the 37-year-old reminisces, Now, as I gaze through the banks windows, I can see the spot near Sweet Magic where I once scavenged for discarded cakes In a bid to give back to the society, Sandeep, along with his friends from Navajeevan, formed a WhatsApp group titled Fruits from Navajeevan to support orphans like him. Sandeep told TNIE, We have mobilised funds to provide support to those facing challenges like we did. We are committed to ensuring that no child is deprived of education due to financial constraints.
Techie held in Hyderabad for cheating in the name of gold investment
Hyderabad: The Cyberabad police arrested a techie for defrauding people in the name of investment into gold to the tune of Rs 6.12 crore. The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) police station of Cyberabad busted the racket and arrested Ganta Sreedhar, a software employee hailing from Andhra Pradeshs Tirupati district and residing in Hyderabad. The police 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 .
Poll Affidavit Lays Bare Peddireddy Family's Assets
Tirupati : As Andhra Pradesh is gearing up for the assembly and Lok Sabha elections, affidavits filed by key candidates indicate a steep rise in the assets of senior minister Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy and his spouse over the past five years. A cabinet minister from the ruling YSR Congress party, Ramachandra Reddy is contesting again from Punganur. He has declared total assets worth 235.4 crore for himself and wife G. Swarna Latha as of 2024. This marks a massive 79.72 per cent jump from the 130.97 crore the couple had disclosed during the previous polls in 2019. The sharp increase is driven primarily by the swelling value of their immovable assets like property and land holdings. The ministers immovable assets have surged from 80.47 crore in 2019 to 114.25 crore currently. His spouse's immovable wealth has skyrocketed from 29.21 crore to 96 crore over the same period. In contrast, the couple's movable assets like cash, jewellery and investments have seen a relatively modest rise, going up from 21.28 crore in 2019 to 25.15 crore in 2024. Peddireddy himself owns movable assets worth 10.59 crore, a slight dip from 11.27 crore last time, while his wife's movable assets have increased to 14.55 crore from 10.01 crore previously. The affidavit also reveals that the couple's liabilities have increased. Reddy's outstanding loans have risen to 18.50 crore from 18.20 crore in 2019. However, Swarna Latha's liabilities have jumped sharply to 34.74 crore currently from just 2.17 crore earlier. Interestingly, neither the 10-time MLA from Punganur, nor his wife, own any motor vehicles. They have declared that they possess 50 grams and 1,500 grams of jewellery respectively. Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy : Movable Assets: 10,59,43,266 (2024); 11,27,42,106 (2019) Immovable Assets: 114,25,00,000 (2024): 80,47,64,000 (2019) Liabilities: 18,50,96,345 (2024); 18,20,78,192 (2019) G. Swarna Latha: Movable Assets: 14,55,71,623 (2024); 10,01,27,821 (2019) Immovable Assets: 96,00,00,000 (2024); 29,21,50,000 (2019) Liabilities: 34,74,66,514 (2024); 2,17,84,302 (2019)
Chandrababu Naidu promises free bus travel for women
Tirupati: Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president N. Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday promised free bus travel for women if TDP-JSP-BJP alliance comes to power in Andhra Pradesh in the next months elections. Interacting with women on the occasion of his birthday at Gudur in Tirupati district, the former chief minister said women would be provided with 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 .
Telangana Schools to Shut for Summer Holidays From April 24
Hyderabad: It's good news for children to enjoy their summer vacation as the School Education department has announced summer holidays for all the government schools from April 24. The schools would reopen on June 12, confirmed School Education department Additional Director (Coordination) K Lingaiah. Holidays for CBSE schools also started from April 20. With the announcement of holidays, several families planned their travel schedule to enjoy their vacation with the family members, relatives and friends to visit mostly hill stations to enjoy the climate. Some families scheduled their plans to attend weddings, while others planned to visit religious places especially Tirupati, Shirdi and other prominent places. In spite of non-availability of train tickets, most families are planning to travel on their own vehicle or hire private vehicles to reach their destination. Some families already prepared their itinerary and purchased flight tickets to reach their tourist place to enjoy their vacation.
Naidu Familys Riches Rise by 40 per Cent in Five Years, Cross Rs 900 Crore
Tirupati: An affidavit submitted to the Election Commission on Friday showed a major rise in the assets of Telugu Desam chief Nara Chandrababu Naidu and his wife Nara Bhuvaneswari. The couple's combined assets rose by around 40 per cent - from Rs 668.57 crore in 2019 to Rs 931.83 crore in 2024. The revelation came as Bhuvaneswari filed her husband's nomination papers for Kuppam Assembly constituency in Chittoor district on Friday. According to the affidavit, the Telugu Desam chiefs movable assets declined to Rs 4.80 lakh from Rs 47.38 lakh, while his wife's movable assets swelled from Rs 573.84 crore in 2019 to Rs 810.37 crore in 2024. Their immovable asset holdings witnessed an equally meteoric rise - from Rs 19.96 crore and RS 74.29 crore in 2019 to RS 36.31 crore and Rs 85.10 crore now. The former CM's immovable riches include non-agricultural land in Kuppam, residential buildings in Hyderabad and his native Naravaripalle. The value of these holdings surged by Rs 16.35 crore, reaching Rs 36.31 crore now from Rs 19.96 crore in 2019. Naidu owns a 1994 Ambassador car valued at Rs 2.22 lakh. However, it is Bhuvaneswari who emerged wealthier, with her personal assets surging from Rs 648.13 crore in 2019 to Rs 895.47 crore in 2024 - a staggering increase of Rs 247.34 crore. She currently holds 2.26 crore shares of Heritage Foods worth Rs 763.93 crore, up from 1.06 crore shares valued at Rs 545.76 crore five years ago. Additionally, she possesses around 41.5 kg of silver and 3.4 kg of gold bullion. The couple's liabilities have decreased slightly, with Naidu currently showing Rs 3.48 crore as a joint housing loan with his son - down from Rs 5.24 crore in 2019. Bhuvaneswari's liabilities dipped to Rs 6.83 crore from Rs 10.07 crore previously. Meanwhile, Naidu was booked in FIR No.79/2023 and 56/2023 by Mudiveedu and Mulakalacheruvu police citing charges like conspiring and instigating TD cadres to attack YSRC activists and promoting enmity. He also faces FIR No.43/2023 and 41/2023 from Anaparthi and Bikkavolu police for disobeying orders and threatening officials to hold public gatherings. The former chief minister faces CID FIR No. 18/2023 and 19/2023 over irregularities in fixing fees, granting distilleries/brands, and free sand policy causing losses to the state exchequer. CID Amaravati also booked him for irregularities in AP capital master plan and inner ring road alignment to benefit some people. CID Mangalagiri filed FIR No. 24/2021 against Naidu for violating e-procurement rules by awarding contracts to Tera Software through AP FiberNet. He also faces FIR No. 15/2020 for wrongfully benefiting relatives/associates by misusing official position. The Arundalpet (FIR 230/2021) and Suryaraopet (FIR 94/2021) police stations booked Naidu for remarks on COVID-19 second wave and vaccine shortage causing fear and mental stress among the people. Narasaraopet II Town (FIR 88/2021) and Kurnool I Town (FIR 80/2021) police registered cases over his comments on 440K variant spread. Kalyandurg police in Anantapur booked him in FIR 75/2022 over his post on platform X on a girl's death during a minister's roadshow. Yerpedu, Vizag Airport, and Patamata police also booked him in preventive arrest cases. * Nara Chandrababu Naidu - Movable Assets: Rs 4,80,438 (2024); Rs 47,38,067 (2019) - Immovable Assets: Rs 36,31,00,481 (2024): Rs 19,96,95,474 (2019) - Liabilities: Rs 3,48,81,937 (2024); Rs 5,24,96,605 (2019) * Nara Bhuvaneswari - Movable Assets: Rs 810,37,08,883; Rs 573,84,17,434 (2019) - Immovable Assets: Rs 85,10,41,128 (2024); Rs 74,29,00,000 (2019) - Liabilities: Rs 6,83,19,895 (2024); Rs10,07,98,182 (2019)
Edited Huge liquor haul in Nagari as nominations kick off in state
Tirupati: A huge consignment of illegally smuggled liquor from Karnataka was seized by Narayanavanam police in Nagari constituency late on Thursday, the very day nomination process for the upcoming Assembly and Lok Sabha elections kicked off in the state. Acting on a tip-off, a police team led by sub-inspector D. Lakshmi Narayana intercepted an auto-rickshaw transporting 43 cases of Karnataka-made liquor near Govindapalem on Puttur bypass road during a raid conducted late on Thursday night. Upon interrogating, they received information about a large liquor dump stashed in a godown close to a private degree college in Puttur. The subsequent raid at the premises led to the seizure of 286 liquor cases of 180ml, containing a total of 13,728 bottles, valued at over Rs 17 lakh in the state's grey market. Three persons M. Subramanyam Thirunavukkarasu (42), V. Leela Krishna (25), and Krishnamurthy Siva (42) were arrested by Narayanavanam police during the raid. SI Lakshmi Narayana said efforts were on to nab another accused in the case, C.S. Dileep. Opposition parties have cried foul, alleging that the ruling YSRC party leaders had smuggled the liquor from Karnataka to distribute among the party workers and locals during tourism minister R.K. Roja's nomination rally in Puttur on Friday. YSRC leaders vehemently denied any links to the illicit liquor haul.
TD, YSRC Candidates Declare Huge Assets in High-Stakes Chittoor Polls
Tirupati: As nominations opened for the Chittoor Assembly constituency, the two leading candidates have declared massive assets worth hundreds of crores. Their affidavits also listed the criminal cases they or their families are involved in. M.C. Vijayananda Reddy of the YSRC and G.C. Jagan Mohan of the Telugu Desam along with their wives have assets totaling over Rs 275 crore of this, the much larger share for the TD candidate and his wife. Vijayananda Reddy is facing trial in cases linked to alleged red sanders smuggling, poll code violations, and supply of spurious liquor. His nomination papers mention 12 cases of alleged red sanders smuggling across Chittoor district between 2013 and 2015. He also faces a case of illegal liquor transportation in Hyderabad from 2014, and a recent case of violation of the election code in Chittoor. However, Reddy termed these charges politically motivated. As per the affidavit of the businessman-turned-politician and his wife, they have movable assets worth over Rs 18 crore and Rs 15 crore respectively, including cash, jewelry, vehicles, and investments. Their immovable assets are valued at around Rs 18 crore and these include agricultural lands and residential properties. The couple also have liabilities of over Rs 18 crore in the form of loans from public financial institutions and government bodies. TD's Jagan Mohan is facing a case in Bengalurus Whitefield -- citing criminal intimidation, insult, and trespass. He stated in the affidavit that the case was under investigation and no charge sheet had been filed. The realtor-turned-politician and his wife have declared movable assets worth over Rs 17.5 crore and immovable assets valued at Rs 125 crore. However, they have liabilities of over Rs 37 crore in loans from financial institutions, the government, and other sources, as per their affidavits.
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.
Congress MP candidates file nominations for Nellore, Tirupati Lok Sabha seats
Tirumala Tirupati received 1,031 kg of gold in 2023 even as prices soar to all time high
TTD receives increasing gold donations despite high prices. Trust holds 11,329 kg gold worth Rs 8,496 crore. Global prices surge amid tensions. Gold at Rs 73,950 per 10g. High rates impact investments, risk recession.
Lord Rama in Venugana Alankaram blesses devotees at Vontimitta temple
TIRUPATI : As part of the ongoing Sri Kodanda Rama Swamy Brahmotsavams at Vontimitta in Annamayya district, Lord Sri Rama decked in Venugana Alankaram gave darshan to His devotees along the four Mada streets of the temple on the second day. While groups of artistes glorified the procession with colourful chekka bhajana and kolatams, the Lord was taken on a procession along the streets with majesty blessing devotees on Thursday morning. Later, Snapana Tirumanjanam ceremony was held in the temple. In this, milk, curd, honey, turmeric, coconut water and sandalwood paste was offered to the Utsava Murthies while performing Abhishekam. Temple Deputy EO Natesh Babu, superintendent Hanumanthaiah, Temple inspector Naveen and others participated in the procession. Meanwhile in Tirupati, a grand procession of Muthyala Talambaralu was held on Thursday in connection with Sri Sitaram Kalyanam at Sri Kodanda Ramalayam. The pearls were brought in a procession on paraphernalia led by elephants and handed over the Mutyala Talambralu to Temple Chief Priest Sri Ananda Kumara Dikshitulu. The procession reached the temple through Theertha Katta Street, Gandhi Road, Sri Govindarajaswami Temple, Dakshina Mada Street, and Bazaar Street.
Over 80 mandals in AP reel under severe heatwave
VIJAYAWADA: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday issued a heatwave alert at isolated pockets across the State on Friday. On Thursday, the State largely experienced hot and humid conditions with daytime temperatures being above 40 degrees Celsius at most places. The highest daytime temperature of 45.8 degrees Celsius was recorded at Yerrampeta of Alluri Sitarama Raju, Komarada of Parvathipuram Manyam district, followed by 45.6 degrees Celsius at Nandavaram of Nandyal district, 45.5 degrees Celsius at Jami of Vizianagaram district, 45.4 degrees Celsius at Kovilam of Srikakulam district, Kongalaveedu of YSR district, 45.3 degrees at Renigunta of Tirupati, Darimadugu of Prakasam districts. According to APSDMA, 84 mandals in the State experienced severe heatwave conditions, while 120 mandals experienced heatwave conditions on Thursday. It is forecasted that severe heatwave conditions are likely in 91 mandals and heatwave conditions in 245 mandals on Friday. The public is advised to avoid outdoor activities during the daytime between 11 am and 3 pm. The IMD emphasised the significant risks of elevated temperatures during heatwaves, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Additionally, prolonged periods of extreme heat can lead to dehydration and strain key infrastructures.
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.
Nomination filing kicks off in Chittoor, Nellore regions
Tirupati district as political parties are accusing their rivals of manipulations in the electoral rolls for the 2024 general elections. (Representational DC Image) Tirupati district as political parties are accusing their rivals of manipulations in the electoral rolls for the 2024 general elections. (Representational DC Image) Tirupati: Battle lines are being drawn in the erstwhile Chittoor and Nellore districts as the nomination process for the assembly and Lok Sabha elections kicked off on Thursday with the issuance of a gazette notification. Prominent candidates across the political spectrum were busy with the process of filing their nominations, setting the stage for an intense multi-cornered contest in these regions. In Nellore district, sitting MLAs and YSRC candidates Ramireddy Pratap Kumar Reddy and Nallapureddy Prasanna Kumar Reddy submitted their papers from Kavali and Kovur constituencies respectively. Another sitting legislator Kotamreddy Sridhar, contesting on the TD-JS-BJP alliance ticket, also filed his nomination from Nellore Rural. Other key nominees in Nellore included Vemireddy Prashanthi Reddy of TD from Kovur and Gunji Venkateswarlu of the Bahujan Samaj Party from Kavali. For the Nellore LS, Sk. Mehaboob Basha of the Republican Party of India filed his papers. In the erstwhile Chittoor district, Bhumana Abhinay accompanied by Mayor Sirisha filed his YSRC nomination for the Tirupati assembly segment. Among the other YSRC candidates filing their papers on day one were MC Vijayananda Reddy (Chittoor), Nukathoti Rajesh (Satyavedu), N Venkate Gowda (Palamaner), Sanjeevaiah Kiliveti (Sullurpet), Peddireddy Dwarakanath Reddy (Tamballapalle) and Nedurumalli Ram Kumar (Venkatagiri). The NDA saw nominations from Gali Bhanu Prakash (Nagari), Gandhi Rathnavel (GD Nellore), GC Jagan Mohan (Chittoor), Pulivarthi Venkata Mani Prasad (Chandragiri) and Bojjala Venkata Sudhir Reddy (Srikalahasti). The Congress fielded Balaguruvan Babu from Satyavedu. For Punganur, nominations came from Challa Ramachandra Reddy (TD) and G Murali Mohan (Congress). Prasada Rao Daggumalla of the alliance also filed his nomination for the Chittoor (SC) Lok Sabha seat.
