AP PGECET 2024 answer key, response sheet out at cets.apsche.ap.gov.in: Direct links here
Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati has released the AP PGECET 2024 answer key for the Andhra Pradesh Post Graduate Engineering Entrance Test (AP PGECET). Candidates can download it from the official website.
Thundershowers lash many parts of AP
Visakhapatnam : Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning lashed parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh on Friday night. The thunderstorms brought down the maximum temperatures by 3 C to 5 C on Saturday. A man was killed while over 15 goats and four bullocks died when lightning struck them in Thotakura Padu village under Hukumpeta mandal in ASR district. The thunderstorms brought the state respite from heat conditions. Weather reports said not a single location in the state experienced heat wave on Saturday. It may be recalled that heatwave prevailed in Bapatla, Kavali and Ongole on Friday and Kavali and Jangamaheswarapuram on Thursday. On Saturday, Tirupati recorded the maximum temperature of 43.4 C followed by Nellore 42.6C, Kadapa 41.8C, Nandyal 41C, Kurnool 41C and Kavali 40C. The remaining parts of the state recorded maximum temperatures between 34C and 39C on Saturday. The IMD-Amaravati forecast that heavy rain is likely at isolated places over north coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam and Rayalaseema on Sunday while thunderstorm accompanied with lightning and gusty winds with speed of 30-40 kmph is likely over coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam and Rayalaseema. Thunderstorms accompanied with lightning and gusty winds with speed of 30-40 kmph is likely over coastal Andhra Pradesh (CAP) and Rayalaseema till June 5. The report added that two days after the Southwest monsoon made its onset over Kerala, widespread rains lashed several parts of Kerala on Saturday. The conditions are favourable for further advancement of Southwest monsoon into some more parts of the central Arabian Sea, remaining parts of south Arabian Sea, Lakshadweep and Kerala, some parts of Karnataka and Rayalaseema, some more parts of Tamil Nadu and Southwest Bay of Bengal by Tuesday.
Southwest monsoon expected to stick to its annual schedule, enter A.P. by June 5
Conditions are favourable for it to enter some parts of Rayalaseema in the next couple of days; part of State likely to witness heavy rainfall on Sunday due to pre-monsoon weather conditions
Southwest monsoon expected to stick to its annual schedule, enter A.P. by June 5 - The Hindu
Southwest monsoon expected to stick to its annual schedule, enter A.P. by June 5 The Hindu
The Hindu FIC-AM/NS cricket coaching camp concludes at VDCA Stadium
Five players who played in IPL 2024 and nine from the Andhra Women Under-19 team were groomed by VDCA, says vice-president D.S. Varma, while emphasising the significance of the summer camp
AP Reorganisation Act 2014 Brought Marquee Edu Institutes to AP
VISHAKHAPATNAM: The Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act 2014 is a significant legislation passed by Parliament. This Act divides the state of united Andhra Pradesh into two separate states: Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The Act designates Hyderabad as the common capital of both AP and Telangana for ten years. The central government promised to provide Andhra Pradesh with several national-level institutes in this Act. As per the split Act, the following eight national institutions are being set up in Andhra Pradesh: IIT (Indian Institute of Technology), NIT (National Institute of Technology), IIM (Indian Institute of Management), IISER (Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research) Central University, Petroleum University, Agricultural University, IIIT (Indian Institutes of Information Technology). On July 19, 2022, the Union government announced that it had taken steps to establish educational institutions of national importance in the successor state of Andhra Pradesh as per the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014. Union Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan responded to questions raised by then-sitting MPs Pocha Brahmananda Reddy and Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu in the Lok Sabha regarding the steps taken to set up educational institutions of national importance in the state as per the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014. Minister Dharmendra Pradhan stated that eight national institutions, including IIT, NIT, IIM, IISER, Central University, Petroleum University, Agricultural University, and IIIT, are being established in the AP State. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Tirupati, started functioning in 2015-16, and the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Tadepalligudem, also started functioning in 2015. In 2015-16, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Visakhapatnam, started functioning, while in the same academic year, the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Tirupati, began. In 2018-19, the Central University in Anantapur started functioning, and* the Indian Institute of Petroleum and Energy, Visakhapatnam, has been functioning from 2016-17. Apart from these educational institutes, the central government established the Central Tribal University of Andhra Pradesh (CTUAP) under the thirteenth schedule of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014. CTUAP is located in Marrivalasa, Vizianagaram district and started in 2021. It operates from a transit campus, and its final location is yet to be finalised. In the agricultural sector, Acharya NG Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU) started in Guntur in 2014. ANGRAU was fully established with headquarters, colleges, institutional facilities and ANGRAU has been accredited by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The Indian Institute of Information Technology Design and Manufacturing in Kurnool started functioning in 2015-16. Under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act 2014, the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) established its southern campus in Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh. The NIDM Southern Campus was inaugurated by then Vice President of India, M Venkaiah Naidu and is expected to be operational by March 2024.
Womans body found in isolated area in Anakapalli district
VPA handles record cargo in May 2024
The accomplishments reflect our commitment to excellence and operational efficiency. We aim to continue setting new benchmarks in the maritime industry, says Chairman Madhaiyaan Angamuthu
Counting will officially begin at 8 a.m. and names of winning candidates likely to be announced at around 9 p.m.
All arrangements made for the poll counting on June 4, says Visakhapatnam District Collector Mallikarjuna The Hindu
10 factory workers fall ill after smelling unidentified odour at aluminium industry near Tirupati
There is no sign of any gas leakage in the factory, says District Fire Officer
LS poll: Preparations finalized for counting in Tirupati, tight security measures in place
The News Mill
Ahead of counting, Amit Shah visits Tirumala temple
TIRUMALA : Union Home Minister Amit Shah offered prayers at Tirumala temple on Friday, ahead of counting on June 4. After visiting the temple, he took to social media platform X, and posted, Fortunate to have offered prayers at Tirupati temple in Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh. May the grace of Sri Venkateswara Swami fill everyones life with good health and prosperity. Accompanied by his wife Sonal Shah, the Union Minister reached the temple around 8 am and spent half-an-hour there, participating in rituals. Temple officials said Amit Shah participated in Abhishekam ritual performed to the Lord every Friday. Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams Executive Officer AV Dharma Reddy and other officials received the Home Minister at the temple entrance, and conducted him into the temple. Later, Amita Shah was given Veda Ashirvadam by the temple priests, and presented with a portrait of Lord Venkateswara, Sesha Vastram, a diary, ayurvedic products, Srivari Prasadam. Later, Amit Shah had breakfast at Padamavathi Guest House, and left for Rajkot, Gujarat. Vaidyanathan Krishnamoorthy Trust Board member also accompanied Amith Shah during his visit to the hill shrine.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Andhra Pradesh
Tirupati: Union Home Minister Amit Shah offers prayers during his visit to Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple at Tirumala, in Tirupati district. (PTI Photo) Tirupati: Union Home Minister Amit Shah being greeted by devotees during his visit to Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple at Tirumala, in Tirupati district. (PTI Photo) Tirupati: Union Home Minister Amit Shah 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 .
Over 4kg Gold, Rs 1.6 Crore Cash Seized in Crackdown on Highway Smuggling
Tirupati: In a crackdown on gold smuggling on the highways, the police seized over 4.3kg of crude gold and confiscated Rs 1.61 crore in cash from gangs illegally transporting these in Nellore and Prakasam districts. The seizures were made at different locations on Wednesday and Thursday. Acting on a tip-off about a smuggling racket transporting gold from Chennai to Miryalaguda, Nellore district's Kavali Rural PS circle inspector Srinivasa Rao led a team to conduct vehicle inspections at the Musunuru Toll Plaza in the early hours of Thursday morning. During the search operation, five women T Sumati, E Tejashree, Shaik Parvin, D Yadamma and B Shivamma were arrested with over `1.61 crore in cash from a Chennai-bound bus. They were on their way to purchase gold, police said. On the same day, two persons -- B Mohan from Ongole and P Prabhakar from Vijayawada -- were caught red-handed while transporting 1.497kg of gold biscuits worth around `1 crore from Chennai to Miryalaguda by car. They were arrested and the gold seized. On Wednesday night at the Venkatachalam Toll Plaza in Nellore district, CI Ankama Rao and his team seized 1.658 kg of gold from a car coming from Chennai, as the consignment did not have proper documentation. Its occupants, Vanshi and Raja, hailing from Telangana, were detained. In a separate operation in Prakasam district, police conducted vehicle inspections at the Tangutur Toll Plaza on Thursday night. They seized over 1kg of gold and `58,000 in cash from a car without proper documents. A couple, M Mallesh and Chandrakala, who were transporting the gold to Miryalaguda, failed to give satisfactory explanation when questioned, the police claimed. The seized gold and cash are secured as evidence. The detained/arrested individuals are undergoing interrogation, a senior police officer said.
AP reeling again under heat wave
Visakhapatnam: Many parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema reeled under heat wave conditions on Friday with Kavali and Ongole recording a maximum temperature of 45 C each. Bapatla sizzled at 44.8C, followed by Jangamaheswarapuram at 44.5C, Amaravati 44.2C, Nandigama 44.1C, Nellore 44.1C, Tirupati 43.9C, Nandyal 42.5C, Gannavaram 42.1C, Kurnool 42C and Kadapa 42C. The rest of the state recorded maximum temperatures between 35C and 40C. The heat wave conditions prevailed in Bapatla, Kavali and Ongole. In the agency area of ASR district, Lambasinghi recorded 38.1 degrees. AP recorded eight heat wave days in May-2024. Vizag city and the surrounding coastal districts experienced humid weather conditions due to moisture incursion in the atmosphere. The relative humidity oscillated between 70 to 80 per cent in parts of the CAP. The humidity levels are expected to reduce after the onset of the monsoon. A report from IMD-Amaravati said parts of CAP may experience hot and humid weather conditions for two more days. Meanwhile, the southwest monsoon has advanced into remaining parts of northeast Bay of Bengal and some parts of northwest Bay of Bengal, remaining parts of Tripura, Meghalaya and Assam and most parts of Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim. The weather office said conditions are favorable for further advancement of southwest monsoon into some more parts of central Arabian Sea, remaining parts of south Arabian Sea, Lakshadweep area and Kerala, some parts of Karnataka, some more parts of Tamil Nadu and Southwest Bay of Bengal by Monday.
Chittoor Prepares for Vote Counting, Nagari Result Expected First
Tirupati: Excitement is building in erstwhile Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh with the crucial assembly election results expected on June 4. All eyes are on results the 14 assembly constituencies in the undivided district are going to yield, amidst speculation that Nagari could be the first constituency to declare its outcome. While Nagari had 229 polling stations, only seven candidates are on the contestants list. Though Chittoor and Thamballapalle had fewer polling stations, 13 candidates are in fray from these constituencies. With the vote counting process spanning 17 rounds in the three segments, it is believed Nagari result will be our first, followed by Chittoor and Thamballapalle. Counting in the erstwhile Chittoor district will commence at 8 a.m., with postal ballots being counted first. Counting votes from EVMs will start from 8:30 a.m. Each constituency will have a minimum 14 counting tables. The number of counting tables may increase based on factors like number of polling booths and candidates. According to official sources, the count in Kuppam is estimated to be completed in under 19 rounds. Punganur, Madanapalle and GD Nellore will require 19 rounds of counting. Tirupati and Satyavedu count may stretch to 20. Counting in Srikalahasti, Piler, Palamaner and keenly-watched Chandragiri (395 polling booths) is likely to be wrapped in the 21st round. Officials estimate that each round of counting will take 25 minutes. Thus, 45 rounds are expected to be completed by 10:3011 a.m., giving a fair indication of potential winners. Final results, however, will be available only after tallying the VVPAT slips against the EVM counts. The Returning Officer will thereafter issue the coveted certificate to the winning candidates. Chittoor collector and district election officer Sagili Shanmohan pointed out that depending on the turnout in a constituency, EVM vote counting will be spread over 17 to 21 rounds.
Lok Sabha Polls: Amit Shah along with wife offers prayers at Tirupati Balaji Temple ahead of 7th phase voting
Amit Shah in Tirupati to seek blessings before poll results
Union Home Minister Amit Shah and his wife Sonal Shah offered prayers at the Tirupati Balaji Temple. Shah sought blessing ahead of Lok Sabha poll results. People will vote in the final phase of the Lok Sabha elections on June 1.
Amit Shah offers prayers at Sri Venkateswara temple in Tirupati
Tirupati: Union Home Minister Amit Shah offered prayers at Lord Venkateswara temple here on Friday, said an official. Accompanied by his wife Sonal Shah, the BJP leader reached the temple at around 8 am and spent half an hour there, participating in the rituals. Also ReadYogi Adityanath eliminated both mosquitoes and mafia from UP: Amit 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 .
Amit Shah offers prayers at Lord Sri Venkateswara Swamy in Tirumala
Tirumala: A day after concluding a high-pitched Lok Sabha election campaign, Union Home Minister Amit Shah offered prayers at Tirumala along with his family members on Friday morning. Shah and his family members first landed at Renigunta airport and later reached Tirumala by road. In the morning during VIP break darshan, he and his family had darshan of Lord Sri Venkateswara Swamy. He was accorded a customary welcome amid chanting of Vedic hymns by the high priests, who escorted him to the sanctum sanctorum along with top temple functionaries from the main entrance. Shah also paid his obeisance to the sacred golden altar and the golden holy mast (Dwajastambham) in front of the silver doors inside the temple. After offering worship, Shah was honoured with a sacred silk cloth besides being offered Laddu prasadam at the sprawling Ranga Mandapam in the temple. The priests also invoked celestial blessings on Shah. In the wake of Shahs visit, the Tirupati district police intensified checking from Tirupati to Tirumala including Alipiri and the ghat road. Prime Minister and Shah extensively toured various States separately and took part in the election campaign highlighting the achievements of the NDA government in the last 10 years in the country.
Daytime temperatures hover above 40C in Andhra Pradesh
VIJAYAWADA : Mercury levels in the State continue to stay above the 40-degree Celsius mark in several places on Thursday. The weatherman predicted that severe heatwave conditions are likely to be recorded in one mandal of Alluri Sitarama Raju district and heatwave conditions are likely in 145 mandals across the State on Friday. As per the real-time data with the planning department, at 4 pm on Thursday, as many as 320 places have reported daytime temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. In as many as 14 places, mercury levels were over 44 degrees Celsius. The highest daytime temperatures of 44.8 degrees Celsus was reported in Pamuru of Praksam district followed by Ibrahimpatnam in NTR district, and Narasaraopet in Palandu district at 44.7 degrees Celsius, Renigunta in Tirupati district at 44.6, Kodur in Krishna district at 44.5, Manubolu in Nellore district at 44.4, Kunavaram in ASR district at 44.3, and Tulluru in Guntur district at 44.1. According to APSDMA, severe heatwave conditions were experienced in one mandal in each of the Parvathipuram-Manyam and Anakapalli districts, while 45 mandals across the State reported heatwave conditions. Vizianagaram district has the maximum number of mandals that reported heatwave conditions. A total of 14 mandals experienced a heatwave in this district. Meanwhile, IMD forecasted that thunderstorms accompanied by lightning were likely at Isolated places over Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema. Strong winds with speeds of 30-40 kmph are likely across the State on Friday and Saturday. IMD said that the southwest monsoon has set in over Kerala and advanced into most parts of Northeast India on May 30. Lower tropospheric westerly winds prevail over AP and the onset of the monsoon is expected in the first half of next week.
Amit Shah in Tirumala to Seek Divine Blessings Ahead of Poll Results
Tirupati: Ahead of the June 4 vote counting, Union Home Minister Amit Shah arrived in the holy town of Tirumala on Thursday evening to offer prayers at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple. After wrapping up his months-long extensive election campaign for the BJP, Shah landed at the Renigunta airport from Tiruchi. He travelled by road to Tirumala hills and received a warm welcome from TTD Executive Officer A.V. Dharma Reddy, and other officials at the Vakulamatha Nilayam. He stayed there for the night. On Friday around 8.30 am, Shah will worship and seek blessings from Lord Venkateswara at the hill temple. In anticipation of Shah's visit, the TTD made elaborate arrangements to ensure a smooth and secure darshan experience for the VIP. Tight security was evident in and around the temple town. Shah's visit to Tirumala just days before the election results gained significant media attention. It is felt that the senior BJP leader aimed to seek divine blessings for himself and the party at this crucial juncture. State BJP leaders and local party cadre converged at Renigunta airport and the Vakulamata Nilayam in Tirumala to welcome Shah. After completing the religious rituals on Friday morning, Amit Shah would return to Delhi.
TS HC tells Nalsar to withhold seats in BA-LLB
Hyderabad: A two-judge vacation panel of the Telangana High Court directed the National Academy of Legal Studies and Research (Nalsar) to withhold a seat in five five-year degree courses (BA-LLB). The panel comprising Justice B. Vijaysen Reddy and Justice Lakshminarayana Alisetty is dealing with a writ plea filed by M. Karthik, a resident of Tirupati. It is the case of the petitioner that he scored All India Rank 871 and Nalsar failed to consider his domicile status thereby proceeded to insert his candidature at Serial No. 78 of Provisional Fifth List CLAT 2024 UG. The petitioner contended that such an action of the respondents is contrary to Section 95 of The Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act 2014 which provides for, Equal opportunities for quality higher education to all students. In order to ensure equal opportunities for quality higher education to all students in the successor states, the existing admission quotas in all government or private, aided or unaided, institutions of higher, technical, and medical education in so far as it is provided under Article 371D of the Constitution, shall continue as such for a period of 10 years during which the existing common admission process shall continue. The panel after considering the arguments directed Nalsar to hold a seat in the BA-LLB course and posted the matter after vacation. The panel also directed the respondent authorities to file their counters. No interim orders on Gandhamguda lands Justice J. Anil Kumar sitting in a vacation court refused to grant any interim orders in a writ plea challenging notice issued by District Collector, Rangareddy, with regard to lands in Sy No. 51 of Gandhamguda village Gandipet Mandal, Rangareddy district. The judge is dealing with a writ plea filed by Sabia Sultana and 13 others. It is the case of the petitioner that the District Collector issued notice on May 18 at the instance of Mohammed Shareef in respect of the alleged succession to the land admeasuring 9.36 acres at Gandhamguda village without appreciating the decision of the Special Tribunal and the High Court. The petitioner alleged that the authorities proceeded to pass final orders without affording any proper opportunity for a personal hearing and acted in haste to demolish the fencing. Petitioners also moved a lunch motion with regard to alleged illegal demolition which took place on May 29. The petitioner contended that the High Court, in an earlier writ petition, directed District Collector to denotify the land taking into consideration the order passed by the Special Tribunal, Rangareddy district, which is stated to be attained finality, and thereafter, the registering authority i.e., tahsildar, was directed to entertain, register and release the sale deeds that may be executed and presented by the petitioners or their power of attorney holder subject to the compliance of provisions of the Indian Registration Act, 1908 and the Indian Stamp Act, 1899. Senior Counsel appearing for the petitioner Vedula Venkatramana argued that such action of the authorities is without jurisdiction or any authority of law. On the other hand, the government pleader objected to the said contentions and argued that the title over the said lands have to be adjudicated. The judge however refused to grant any interim order and posted the matter after vacation.
Ex-colleague sexually assaults woman in 20s
Tirupati: A former colleague sexually assaulted a 20-year-old woman near Damaraya village in Sullurpet mandal of Tirupati district late on Tuesday night. The incident came to light on Thursday after the victim approached Sriharikota police station and lodged a complaint. Sub-inspector M. Raghunath said the victim, working in a private company and living with her boyfriend Subramanyam in Sullurpet, hails from Nellore district On Tuesday morning, Subramanyam consumed alcohol with the woman's former colleagues Balaji and Edumalai in Sullurpet town. Later that night around 9:30 p.m., Balaji and Edumalai met the couple when the woman alighted from her company bus at the Y-Junction in Sullurpet. Learning that it was the woman's birthday the next day, the duo convinced the couple to visit the nearby Shivalayam Temple and seek blessings. However, Balaji and Edumalai took the couple to an isolated area near Damaraya, close to the Pulicat Lake. There, they beat up Subramanyam and tied him up. They forcibly took Subramanyam's mobile phone and transferred money from his account to themselves via UPI payment. Later, while Balaji kept a watch over tied up Subramanyam, Edumalai took the woman aside. He threatened that he would harm her boyfriend if she resisted. He then sexually assaulted the woman and stole her cash and mobile phone. Balaji and Edumalai then fled from the area, the SI stated. The victims, along with their family members, filed a complaint at the Sriharikota police station. Police have registered a case and are investigating.
TTD Deputy EE Among Four Held for Attempt to Murder
Tirupati: Alipiri police have arrested four individuals, including a deputy executive engineer (EE) of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), on Wednesday in connection with an attempt to murder near NGOs Colony Park in Tirupati city on May 25. The accused have been identified as Tippana Gireesh Chandra Reddy (47), his wife Sri Lakshmi (49), who is TTDs deputy EE, Machavaram Korlagunta Ramesh (36) and Tadavam Dharmalingam Keshavan (41). According to deputy superintendent of police (DSP) A. Ravi Manoharachari, the quartet conspired to kill N. Venkata Shiva Reddy (65), a resident of the same apartment complex as Gireesh. Revealing the motive behind the crime, the DSP said Gireesh has allegedly been involved in cheating cases. He started harbouring a grudge against Shiva Reddy for advising people who had been cheated by Gireesh to file police complaints. Driven by anger and a desire for revenge, Gireesh, along with his wife Sri Lakshmi, hatched a plan to eliminate Shiva Reddy. They offered Ramesh and Keshavan money to carry out the murder. Following this, Keshavan's brother-in-law Sai Ganesh and an accomplice Balaji attacked Shiva Reddy with a knife on the morning of May 25, leaving him critically injured, the DSP stated. Following the attack, circle inspector Ramu Rao, and sub-inspectors Rajasekhar and Ramaswamy investigated the case under the supervision of additional SP P. Kulasekhar and SP V. Harshavardhan Raju and arrested the four accused near the Alipiri Balaji Link Bus Stand on Monday. They have subsequently been remanded to judicial custody.
Post-poll violence: 141 arrested, 54 history sheets opened in Tirupati
In preparation for counting day, police have set up a three-tier security system around the counting centre and 25 check-posts along the route leading up to the centre
Post-poll violence: 141 arrested, 54 history sheets opened in Tirupati - The Hindu
Post-poll violence: 141 arrested, 54 history sheets opened in Tirupati The Hindu
90-110 resident jumbos in Chittoor forests
Tirupati: The three-day synchronised elephant census conducted in the forest areas of Chittoor East and West, Kuppam, Palamaner and other ranges of the Chittoor district has quantified the current number of resident jumbos between 90 and 110. To this is added an equivalent number of migrants. Amid increasing human-elephant conflicts and elephant movement into human areas, the southern states had established an Interstate Coordination Committee (ICC). In a meeting at the Bandipur National Park on March 10, the ICC signed a charter mandating synchronised elephant population estimates across state borders. This approach aims to gain insights into population dynamics, potential conflict scenarios and facilitate holistic conflict management, officials said. The synchronised elephant population estimation exercise was conducted from May 23 to May 25 in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu as part of an effort towards designing conflict management strategies. It was led by district forest officer Chaitanya Kumar Reddy. The systematic three-day approach covered over 66 forest blocks in the district. We undertook the block-count and transect methods of survey and a special watch at the water bodies and wetland areas in the forest ranges. Factors such as dung, footprints and carcass were analysed to determine elephant presence, the DFO stated. Notably, the Wildlife Institute of India's 2023 report Elephant Corridors of India had listed 150 elephant corridors, with AP hosting two crucial passages the Rayala elephant reserve corridor (linking the Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary to SV National Park) and the tri-junction corridor in the erstwhile Chittoor district. Surveys noted a rise in jumbo numbers in this region annually. Though the Koundinya wildlife sanctuary is located in Chittoor district, it is connected to the forests of Karnataka and TN, where several herds keep crisscrossing the region. The forest officials in the neighbouring states also conducted simultaneous drives for an accurate census. The findings of these surveys were shared between the states and a detailed report will be ready soon, the DFO said. However, the census highlighted significant conservation challenges, particularly concerning human-elephant conflicts. Major threats are electrocution and road accidents, especially in forested villages abutting the Koundinya Sanctuary where sagging power lines and unprotected transformers heightened the risks. Illegal electric fences by farmers worsen these dangers. Key migration corridors like Rayala and tri-junction corridors face threats from highways. To address the threats, the forest department proposed constructing 3.5 km long underpasses along the Palamaner-Mogili ghat section of the Tirupati-Bengaluru highway to safeguard wild animals from accidents. Proposals for underpasses on the ghat section have been sent to the central highways and forest authorities. The works will start soon. Among these passes, a 1.9 km long underpass, probably the longest in India, is coming up in this ghat section, which might curb accidents and deaths of wild animals in this section, the DFO revealed.
Tirupati- Villupuram Express train cancelled partially - The Times of India
Tirupati- Villupuram Express train cancelled partially The Times of India
Terror Grips Villages as Elephant Menace Escalates, Mango Trees are Uprooted
Tirupati : Inhabitants of villages close to the Koundinya wildlife sanctuary and other forests in Chittoor district are living in constant fear of elephant attacks. Incidents of elephant herds raiding agricultural lands and residential areas have become alarmingly frequent. The menace severely impacted the farming community that has suffered losses in crores due to widespread destruction of crops. Mandals like Pulicherla, Sadum, Somala, Bangarupalem and Irala in the region have borne the brunt. Curiously, the menace has been most unbearable in the Punganur Assembly segment represented by forest minister Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy. Elephants are increasingly straying out of forests into villages and farms, poaching on crops, destroying property and taking human lives. The loss to farmers was compounded by the poor mango yield this year. The yield fell to 20 per cent of normal levels due to the erratic weather. Mango prices have skyrocketed, though. Elephants have destroyed over 150 tonnes of mangoes worth around Rs.1 crore across mandals like Pulicherla, Sadum and Somala. Hundreds of trees have been uprooted in these areas. Elephant herds have also ravaged 55 acres of tomato crop in Somala, Sadum, Pulicherla and other mandals of Punganur segment, where agriculture is the main means of income. Incidents of farmers, farm labourers and shepherds being injured or even killed in elephant attacks have increased in mandals like Punganur, Puthalapattu, Peddapanjani, Palamaner, V Kota and Kuppam. Aggrieved farmers allege that the government has turned a blind eye to their plight and did not take remedial steps. Nor did it provide adequate compensation for their losses. Farmers want immediate action from the forest department and district administration to address their issues and provide relief commensurate with the actual losses they incurred. We must be paid compensation based on current crop prices, rather than offering a nominal compensation, they said.
Food Business to be Under Scanner in AP
Vijayawada: The food business in Andhra Pradesh will soon be under the scanner. As many as 14 mobile food labs - one each for a district and one for the Chief Ministers Office - will be pressed into service shortly. Central funds under the aegis of the Food Safety and Standards Authority are being used for the launch of these mobile food labs. One lab will be allotted to each of the erstwhile 13 districts. Each lab can conduct as many as 80 types of tests. Any food product or item, either raw or cooked that fall under the ambit of Food Safety and Standards Act, will be tested on the spot in the mobile lab. In case further tests are required, the samples will be sent to the forensic labs for detailed examination. The staff on the mobile labs can impose on-the-spot fines. They can test cooking oils, dals, pulses and other household cooking items. This apart, the petty food business units selling items like idly, dosa, vada and snacks in the streets or at busy enclosures will also come under the purview of the mobile labs. In case any lapse is found vis-a-vis quality or hygiene, the labs can impose fines on them, on the spot. The food safety department said it was receiving complaints on sale of adulterated food items like oils, dals and pulses etc by traders/shops, and of cooked food items. Eateries are using rotten meat, repeatedly boiled oil, banned colours etc that harm the health of consumers. Such outlets/shops will be taken to task. Food safety director in-charge Poornachandra Rao said, The labs will ascertain the quality of food items, both raw and cooked, across the state. The food safety authority intends to carry out an awareness drive on food safety to ensure that food business operators follow standard norms while selling food items. Meanwhile, the state food lab is getting ready in Visakhapatnam. It would function in a full-fledged manner in addition to the regional food labs in Guntur and Tirupati, all of which would keep a close tab on the quality of food items sold in the state.
TD Candidate Somireddy Booked for Distributing Cash to Voters
Tirupati : Podalakuru police have registered a case against Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy, Telugu Desam Party's candidate from Sarvepalli assembly constituency, for allegedly distributing cash to women during his election campaign, which is in violation of the Model Code of Conduct. Videos had surfaced on social media that allegedly showed Somireddy and his son Rajagopal Reddy distributing cash to tribal women in Cherlopalli village on April 12. The TD candidates rival, Kakani Govardhan Reddy, YSR Congress nominee from Sarvepalli constituency, filed a complaint regarding the incident with the election authorities. Somireddy had claimed that money had been given to assist tribal women out of humanitarian considerations. Election officials had initially set aside the complaint based on a local inquiry. Subsequently, district election officer M. Hari Narayanan ordered the returning officer to initiate legal action based on Kakani's complaint. Thus, Podalakuru police have filed a case against the TD candidate under sections 171-E of the Indian Penal Code and 123 (1) of the Representation of People Act relating to bribery during elections.
Monsoon to set in early in Rayalaseema
Visakhapatnam : The Southwest Monsoon might set in early in the Rayalaseema region. In normal conditions, the scheduled arrival is on June 4. Last year, it landed on June 19. IMD Amaravati said El Nino is being neutralised and conditions were favorable for the monsoon to set in over Kerala on May 31, and in Rayalaseema two days later. IMD scientist S .Karunasagar said there would be a gap for the rains after its arrival. In the interim, the temperature might shoot up in coastal AP and Rayalaseema. Currently, the temperature has risen by two degrees Celsius in many parts of the state due to the flow of dry winds from north-western India towards the east. Ongole on Tuesday registered the highest temperature of 41.6 degrees Celsius, followed by Tirupati 41.5, Bapatla 38.4 and Visakhapatnam 38.8. The temperature rose by 2.8 degrees in Bapatla and 2.4 degrees in Visakhapatnam. Heat conditions would prevail over coastal AP and Rayalaseema in June, when heat waves are likely. The temperature would come down in July and August due to continuous rain as per IMDs latest report. An earlier report too mentioned that the state would get above-normal rainfall. The excess rainfall would be in July and August. As for the current status, the IMD report said the southwest monsoon has further advanced into more parts of the south Arabian Sea and the Maldives area. The conditions are favourable for further advancement into more parts of south Arabian Sea, the remaining parts of Maldives and Comorin area; some parts of Lakshadweep area, Kerala, more parts southwest and central Bay of Bengal, northeast Bay of Bengal and some parts of North-Eastern states during the same period.
Chandragiri Region of Tirupati Turning a Hotspot for Road Accidents
Tirupati: Safety concerns have emerged after Chandragiri area of Tirupati district has turned into a hotspot for road accidents. Since the beginning of this year, 25 people have lost their lives in accidents in the area, while numerous others have sustained injuries. In particular, the national highway passing through the area, specifically the Puthalapattu-Naidupeta stretch, has become a notorious accident-prone zone. Motorists over-speed in this section. Night travel is perilous. Drowsy drivers are being cited as a primary reason for accidents. A road mishap on Monday near M. Kongaravaripalli in Chandragiri mandal claimed four lives. It left two others critically injured. However, accidents are not limited to highways. They have spread to the rural roads due to their serpentine nature. Locals point to a growing sense of unease navigating the winding roads, such as from Thondavada to Kottasanambatla, Nagalamma Circle to Nagalacheruvu, Itepalli-Kotal Road, RF Road to Nagayyagari Palem, and Chandragiri RF Road to Srinivasa Mangapuram. Noticing the increasing trend of accidents, transport authorities have deployed signage, asking motorists to exercise utmost caution and strictly adhere to traffic regulations. We are implementing awareness campaigns to promote responsible driving, deploying additional traffic personnel, and installing speed-detection cameras, a road safety official stated. Commuters are demanding stricter enforcement of traffic laws to curb the alarming tide of accidents plaguing the region. Authorities had earlier introduced a Face Wash and Go programme on national and state highways in the district from 1 a.m. to 4:30 a.m. They halted vehicles and instructed drowsy drivers to freshen up. This initiative is not under implementation currently, though it had helped lower accident rates. Reintroducing this measure could help check the increasing accidents, said Rajendra Kumar, a motorist frequently passing through the area.
Officials examine over 1,000 videos, CCTV footage to identify accused in poll violence cases in A.P.
Incidents were reported in Palnadu, Guntur, Tirupati, Nandyal, Anantapur, and Chittoor among other districts
Nuapada: Driver Killed, Helper Critical In Road Mishap
Nuapada: The driver of a freight truck was killed while the helper sustained critical injuries after the truck was hit by another vehicle in Nuapada district on Tuesday. The deceased has been identified as Tirupati Kumar Singh of Mandbishi village under Kashipur police station in Koraput district. And the injured helper is Kailash Dhangada Majhi. [] The post Nuapada: Driver Killed, Helper Critical In Road Mishap appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
WorthIT| Here's How The World's Richest Hindu Temple Tirupati Balaji Makes Its Money ttownmedia.com
Windfall for Chittoor tomato farmers as prices surge
Tirupati: Cultivators of tomato in erstwhile Chittoor district are enjoying a windfall as prices of the fruit have nearly doubled in just two weeks. Until mid-May, farmers sold a 15-kg box of tomatoes in Punganur, Palamaner, Madanapalle and other markets for 110 to 210. However, a supply crunch and surge in demand have pushed the prices up to 520 per box. Prices have shot through the roof this week, with traders from Tamil Nadu and Karnataka thronging our markets, said Ramaiah, a farmer from Punganur. He had earlier been ruing as prices of tomato had been below 10 a kg. The western region of former Chittoor district, including Madanapalle, Punganur and Palamaner, is renowned for tomato cultivation. It attracts traders from across Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala and Telangana. Encouraged by last year's remunerative prices, farmers took up tomato cultivation on a large scale this season. However, unseasonal rains and adverse weather delayed arrival of the new crop in the market. In Punganur, daily arrivals are currently just 400500 tonnes, compared to 900 tonnes during the same period last year. With traders from other states arriving to pick up the product, prices are likely to stay up firmly in the coming weeks, explained Rajendra Reddy, a commission agent. At Madanapalle, Asia's largest tomato market, prices of superior quality produce have peaked, with rates of a 25-kg crate ranging from 575 to a staggering 1,100.
Nine killed, seven injured in three separate road accidents in Andhra Pradesh
Four members of a family die as car collides with a lorry after jumping a road divider in Krishna district; four pilgrims succumb to injuries as car rams into culvert wall near Tirupati
Four pilgrims from Nellore killed in road accident near Tirupati
The car in which they were travelling rammed into a culvert wall on the Tirupati-Bengaluru National Highway
Four pilgrims from Nellore killed in road accident near Tirupati - The Hindu
Four pilgrims from Nellore killed in road accident near Tirupati The Hindu
Mohan Babu University opens Admissions for B.Tech in CSE AI and ML
Tirupati: Mohan Babu University announces the commencement of admissions for the 2024-2025 academic year for its B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering (Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning) program. Renowned for its strong academics offered through Fully-Flexible Credit System, and industry collaborations with leaders such as IBM, the program offers students with valuable practical experience through projects and internships, exemplifying the universitys commitment to innovative and forward-thinking engineering education. The futuristic students can evolve into successful personalities in varied career prospects like Machine Learning Engineer, Data Engineer, AI Software Engineer, AI DevOps Engineer, Computer Vision Engineer, Natural Language Processing (NLP) Engineer, AI Solutions Architect and many others. The program is designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and skills at the intersection of Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning Technologies, thereby shaping the future of the digital age. The Program offers a blend of theoretical foundations and developing hands-on applications. Students are trained to use cutting-edge technologies relevant to Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Computer Vision, and other technologies relevant to applications of Machine Learning. The Practical experience is further enhanced through capstone projects and internships with leading companies, preparing graduates to navigate the dynamic challenges and opportunities in AI&ML and emerge as pioneers in the field. Mohan Babu University prides itself on its research-based pedagogy and dedication to educational excellence. The university's track record of publications, patents, copyrights by its competent faculty, recognition from esteemed bodies like AICTE and NAE, USA, and Collaborations with reputed foreign universities reflects the commitment to academic distinction. Institutional placements further underscore this dedication, with a 20% growth in packages and offers from over 110+ multinational corporations for the Year 2022 23. Eligibility Criteria for B.Tech CSE (AIML): The applicant should be a Resident / Non-Resident Indian National / PIO / OCI. Minimum 60% Aggregate in PCM: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Education: Passed or appeared in the Diploma/Higher Secondary Examination (10+2 pattern) in the current academic year. Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects. Boards: State boards within India, CBSE, ISCE, Matriculation, or NIOS. NIOS Students: Must have completed the 10th standard from regular schooling or vice versa. International Schools: GCE A-level or International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma or certificate with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects. The last date for admissions to the B.Tech in CSE (AIML) is 31st July, 2024.
AP police ask politicians to maintain restraint on June 4 in view of counting
Anakapalle: In the wake of post-poll violence, the police department asked leaders of various political parties to maintain restraint on the counting day on June 4. The department made a request in this regard following information that violence might break out on June 4. The exit poll results would be released on June 1 followed by counting on June 4. The police categorically informed the leaders that stern action would be initiated against those who indulge in violence as the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is still in vogue. In an interactive session convened with political parties on Monday, Anakapalle Superintendent of Police KV Murali Krishna appealed to leaders to maintain restraint on June 4. He thanked them for extending cooperation for conducting elections peacefully in the district on May 13. We request your support in the similar manner on the counting day as well, he said. The department is making elaborate security arrangements at all the sensitive areas in the State to prevent any untoward incident during counting. It is maintaining a constant vigil on trouble-mongers and history sheets were also opened against those who indulged in post-poll violence. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has taken a serious notice of the violent incidents that took place in Narasaraopet, Palnadu, Chandragiri in Tirupati, Tadipatri and other areas during and after polling in Andhra Pradesh from May 13 and asked the department to initiate stringent action against culprits.
8 die in two separate road accidents on highways in AP
Krishna/Tirupati: Eight persons died in separate road accidents that took place in Chandragiri in Tirupati and Bapulapadu in Krishna district in Andhra Pradesh on Monday morning. In the first incident, four persons died on the spot while two others suffered injuries when the car in which they were travelling rammed into a central median on Poothalapatu and Naidupeta highway in M Kondavaripalli mandal in Chandragiri early on Monday. The accident occurred when the car was heading towards Vellore from Nellore, according to police. In the second incident, four persons died after the car in which they were traveling first rammed into a road divider before hitting a lorry on Chennai-Kolkata highway at Bapulapadu in Krishna district today morning. The accident happened when the car was going to Tamil Nadu from Kovvur. The four deceased have been identified as Swaminathan, Rakesh, Radhapriya and Gopi. One more person, who suffered serious injuries, was rushed to a hospital in Vijayawada, the police said. Responding to two major accidents, former Chief Minister and TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu expressed grief over the incidents and requested the State government to ensure proper treatment to the injured.
MCC halts works to combat animal threat at Tirumala
TIRUMALA: Of the total Rs 3.75 crore allocated by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) to take measures for protection of devotees from wildlife, only Rs 75 lakh has been utilised so far. It has been learnt that works were stalled after the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) was imposed in the State. Forest Department officials asserted that works will be resumed with the remaining Rs 3 crore, once the code is lifted on June 6. The Srivari temple Trust allocated the fund following the rise in man-animal conflicts on the trekking paths. It may be recalled that a six-year-old girl was mauled to death by a leopard along the Alipiri footpath last year. Subsequently, a team of experts visited Tirumala forest region and recommended certain measures to prevent such issues. The TTD and the forest department, took steps to implement the recommendations and also allocated Rs 3.75 crore for the same. As part of the efforts to address the issue, designated wings of the TTD and the forest department extracted footage from the 500-odd closed circuit cameras which were installed at various vulnerable points in the forest area, particularly along both the footpaths leading to the hill shrine. The footage showed the movements of leopards, sloth bears, and other wildlife in the forest and vicinity of the pedestrian paths. As per the recommendation of the central committee, comprising officials from the Central Zoological Authority (CZA), certain proposals were approved and the required equipment was being procured. Necessary staff have already been deployed and veterinary experts, too, have been camping regularly at vulnerable points along the footpaths. Since May 15, when the pilgrims rush to the holy hill shrine started increasing, leopards were spotted five times and sloth bears twice. Recently, an incident of two leopards attacking deer near the G&C toll gate in Tirumala was reported, reinforcing the need for the early completion of the measures to avoid man-animal conflicts. When the issue was brought to the notice of N Nageswara Rao, the Chief Conservator, Wildlife Management, Tirupati circle, he maintained that the works were stopped due to the election code. We have stopped the procurement of equipment needed for the project, he said. Forest department officials said once the equipment is procured, it will be handed over to the personnel deployed for the project, particularly to man the command control rooms either at Alipiri or at Gali Gopuram. TTD forest wing officer Srinivasulu said the two teams entrusted with the task of safeguarding the devotees trekking to Tirumala on both the footpaths are active and have been reporting daily developments to the temple executive officer.
Kakani accuses district election officer of TD bias
Tirupati: Agriculture minister Kakani Govardhan Reddy levelled serious allegations against district collector and election officer of Nellore M. Hari Narayanan, accusing him of displaying partisan behaviour towards the Telugu Desam (TD) and failing to conduct the elections in a fair manner. Addressing a press conference in Nellore on Sunday, Kakani claimed that even when presented with video evidence of the TDs Sarvepalli candidate Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy distributing money, Narayanan brushed it off, stating they did so out of humanity. The minister asserted that such a justification had no precedent in the history of the state or the nation. The district election officer acted in a blatantly biased manner. He completely failed to provide even basic facilities to voters and election staff on polling day. In my entire political career, I have never witnessed such an officer, the minister alleged. The agriculture minister further demanded the appointment of a special observer for the counting process scheduled for June 4 in Nellore district. He expressed apprehensions about potential irregularities if collector Narayanan continues as the district election officer during the counting. He vowed to present evidence substantiating all his allegations against Narayanan
Tirupati Prepares Grand Hanuman Jayanti Celebrations - Deccan Chronicle
Tirupati Prepares Grand Hanuman Jayanti Celebrations Deccan Chronicle
Tirupati Prepares Grand Hanuman Jayanti Celebrations
TTD plans grand Hanuman Jayanti celebrations from June 1-5 in Tirumala with spiritual events, cultural programmes, and daily Abhishekam rituals
Naxal problem will be over in next 2-3 years: Home Minister Amit Shah
New Delhi, May 26: Union Home Minister Amit Shah has said the Naxal problem in the country will end in the next two-to-three years, and except for a small pocket in Chhattisgarh the whole country is now free from the menace. In an interview with PTI late Saturday, Shah also said that there is no presence of the Maoists in the so-called Naxal corridor from Pashupatinath to Tirupati. Naxals were eliminated from all over the country. Once some people [] The post Naxal problem will be over in next 2-3 years: Home Minister Amit Shah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Cyber crime: Tirupati police refund Rs 1.42 lakh to victim in 20 minutes
TIRUPATI: Tirupati Cyber Crime Police successfully resolved a case of cyber fraud and facilitated the refund of Rs 1,42,545 to the victim within just 20 minutes of receiving the complaint. The complainant, Raju from Tirupati, fell victim to a scam on May 24. He reportedly received a call from someone posing as a representative from IndusInd Banks customer care, claiming that his KYC details needed to be updated to prevent his credit card from expiring. Trusting the caller, Raju shared the OTP, which led to an unauthorised debit of Rs 1.42 lakh from his credit card. On realising, Raju alerted the Cyber Crime Police Station. Police identified that the fraudulent transaction had been directed to housing.com. The cyber crime team registered the complaint on the NCRP and with coordinated efforts, the fraudulent transaction was cancelled, and the amount was refunded to Raju.
58 police officers deployed for counting in Andhra Pradesh
VIJAYAWADA: As many as 58 police officers have been appointed for 24 districts to ensure the smooth conduct of counting on June 4. DGP Harish Kumar Gupta issued orders on Saturday allotting election duties for the 58 police officers of various ranks working in different wings. Considering Palnadu as the most sensitive, the DGP allotted eight officers for the district, four officers each to BR Ambedkar Konaseema and Kakinada, three officers each to Guntur, Krishna, Anantapur, Prakasam and Tirupati. The special officers will play a crucial role in controlling law and order in the problematic areas. The police officers have been directed to report to the respective SPs and Commissioners immediately.
Nanis provocative actions led to unrest in Tirupati: Chevireddy
TIRUPATI: YSRC leader Chevireddy Bhaskar Reddy on Saturday responded to allegations made against him by Pulivarthi Venkata Mani Prasad (Nani), TDP candidate of Chandragiri Assembly segment. Nani accused Chevireddy of involving in the post-poll violence in the district. Addressing the media, Chevireddy attributed the unrest in Tirupati to Nanis provocative actions. The sitting Chandragiri MLA made it clear that though he and Nani are political rivals, he holds no personal animosity towards him. Terming the allegations against him baseless, Chevireddy said they were aimed at discrediting him. Pulivarthi Nanis dramas have led to the disturbance of peace in the constituency. If anyone has evidence that I have been involved in physical assaults against my political rivals in the last five years, they can provide it, he challenged. He questioned the validity of the 88 cases filed against him, suggesting they were politically motivated. If I was involved in unlawful acts, the previous TDP regime should not remain silent, he said. Emphasising his grassroots background, Chevireddy highlighted his long-standing commitment to fighting for his party and the peoples cause. He noted that he had faced multiple incarcerations for standing up for justice, but had never engaged in illegal activities. My political career has been about serving the people, not attacking my opponents, he asserted. Chevireddy expressed distress over personal attacks from Nani and his family, specifically mentioning the derogatory remarks made by Nanis wife. Despite these provocations, he maintained restraint. Even during my student days, I never spoke inappropriately about women. But today, they are using such language against me. What should I do? he asked. Chevireddy condemned the derogatory language and unfounded allegations against him, reiterating his commitment to respectful political discourse. I only wish to do as much good as I can, humiliating others is not my nature, the Ongole Lok Sabha candidate added.
Rains likely in several parts of Andhra Pradesh under influence of Remal
VIJAYAWADA: According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast, the depression in east-central Bay of Bengal will intensify into Cyclone Remal on Saturday night, move northward and further intensify on Sunday morning. The cyclone is expected to cross the coast between Sagar Island and Khepupara, near the Bangladesh and West Bengal coasts, at midnight. In a release on Saturday, APSDMA MD Ronanki Kurmanath said the gyration has extended to an average of 5.8 km above sea level in the vicinity of South Kerala, with another circulation extending near northeast Madhya Pradesh. Due to these effects, light to moderate rains are likely in the districts of Parvathipuram-Manyam, Alluri Sitarama Raju, Anakapalle, Annamayya, Chittoor, Tirupati and Godavari districts on Sunday. On Saturday, highest rainfall of 38.5 mm was recorded in Rayadurgam of Anantapur district.
Tamil Nadu cop dismissed for role in multicrore international wildlife trafficking racket
CHENNAI: A police constable attached to the Tamil Nadu special police battalion has been dismissed from service for his possible role as the lynchpin in a multicrore international exotic species smuggling racket busted recently by the Chennai Customs authorities. S Ravikumar (41), havildar number 4938 of the TSP VI battalion in Madurai, was dismissed from service on May 11, a senior police official said. According to sources, Ravikumar is suspected to have made more than 10 trips to foreign countries including Malaysia and Thailand over the last three years. The value of wildlife species smuggled in by him in recent times would be around Rs 5 crore, investigators said. Marmoset monkeys, red-tailed guenon (monkey), Tegu lizards, and several varieties of ball python and Fennec fox were among the host of exotic animals that were suspected to have been smuggled into the country. Ravikumar was arrested by customs officials outside the Chennai international airport on April 12 after he allegedly received 484 red-eared slider turtles and nine African spurred tortoises from Mohammed Mubeen, a passenger from Bangkok. Investigation revealed that Ravikumar got involved in the racket after running an aquarium in Kolathur under his wifes name. He never took the approval of his superiors, as mandated by service rules, for his foreign trips, sources said. He was earlier arrested by the Andhra Pradesh Special Enforcement Bureau for illegal possession, transportation, and trading of Indian star tortoise in the Venkatagiri forest range near Tirupati in 2022. He was attached to the TSPs III battalion in Veerapuram and had received two suspension orders. The central agency had written to Tamil Nadu police detailing Ravikumars alleged role in the wildlife smuggling racket for which Chennai airport has been identified as a global hub. Currently Ravikumar is out on bail, and the case against him is being investigated by Customs and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB). Arrested outside airport Ravikumar was arrested outside the Chennai international airport after he allegedly received 484 red-eared slider turtles and nine African spurred tortoises from Mohammed Mubeen, a passenger from Bangkok. Investigation revealed that Ravikumar got involved in the racket after running an aquarium in Kolathur under his wifes name.
BCCI Secretary Jay Shah Visits Tirumala Temple
Anantapur : Jay Shah, secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and president of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), visited the famous Tirumala temple in Andhra Pradesh on Saturday. Shah, along with his family members, participated in a special darshan of Lord Venkateswara Swamy. Following the darshan, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) authorities and priests presented him with a traditional welcome, prasadam and a sesha vastram at the Ranganayakula Mandapam.
AP Police Step Up Security for Smooth Counting
Vijayawada : Andhra Pradesh police department has initiated measures to ensure that the process of counting votes on June 4 is smooth. Towards this, AP director general of police (DGP) Harish Kumar Gupta has appointed 56 special officers to supervise counting in all districts of the state. Large-scale violence had erupted on the polling day and thereafter in various districts of AP, particularly the Palnadu region. The AP police department is thus taking measures to ensure law and order around the counting centres. The highest number of eight special officers have been appointed to supervise vote counting in Palnadu district, which had been the worst hit during the poll and post-poll violence. Names of districts and special officers assigned to them are as follows: Palnadu P. Somasekhara Rao, ASP, SEB, E. G.; Ch. Papa Rao, ASP, CID; V. Gopala Krishna, ASP, CID; G.B.R. Madhusudhan Rao, ASP, Marine; Rajasekhara Rao, ASP, CID; D.V. Ramana Murthy, ASP, APPA; D. Laxman Rao, DSP, CID; and A. Laxmi Narayana, DSP, CID. Anantapur Karimulla Sharief, SP (NC) and V&E; D. Srihari Raju, DSP, ACB; and Ch. Vijaya Bhaskar Rao, DSP, Railways. Sri Satya Sai D. Gangadharam, Additional SP, SEB, Srikakulam and K. Venkateswara Rao, DSP, CID. Chittoor K. Eswara Rao SP(NC), V&E, and M. Venkateshwara Rao, ASP, SEB, Guntur. Tirupati K.G.V. Sarita, SP (NC), CID; M. Mahendra, ASP, ACB; and S. Sirisha, DSP, ACB. Annamayya B. Mohan Rao, DSP, Railways, and S.S. Bhaskar Rao, DSP, CID. YSR Kadapa Y. Jessie Prashanti, DSP, ACB, and N. Satyanandam, DSP, ACB. Kurnool K. Sai Prasad, DSP, CID. Nandyal Deva Prasad, ASP, ACB; K.T.T.V. Ramana Rao, DSP, CID; and Shaik Abdul Kareem, DSP, CID. Nellore B. Uma Maheswara Rao, ASP, CID. Prakasam Varma P.V.R.S.S.M.V.R., ASP, CID; D. Himavathi, SP (NC), V&E; and K. Sreelakshmi, ASP, SEB, Kakinada. Bapatla G. Srinivas, DSP, CID and U. Bangara Raju, DSP, ACB. Guntur C. Jayarama Raju, ASP, CID; K. Venu Gopal, DSP, CID; and B. Laxmi Narayana, DSP, CID. Krishna M. Rajani, SP (NC), Marine; A.V. Subbaraju, ASP, SEB, Chittoor; and Ch. Penta Rao, DSP, CID. NTR Police Commissionerate, Vijayawada K. Lavanya Lakshmi, SP (NC), TRANSCO; and Somanna, DSP, CID. Eluru N. Poojitha, ASP, V&E, Kurnool; and L. Ajay Prasad, ASP, CID. West Godavari Sheik Masum Basha, ASP, V&E; and B.V.S. Nageswara Rao, DSP, Railways. East Godavari N. Ramya, DSP, ACB; and Tirupathaiah, DSP, Octopus. Kakinada G. Venkat Ramudu, ASP, SEB, Kadapa; Ch. Ravi Kumar, DSP, CID; Rajendra, ASP, SEB, Tirupati; and T. Narasimha Rao, DSP, Octopus. Anakapalli L. Mohan Rao, DSP, Railways. Ongole N. Surendra, DSP, CID; B. Sri Bhavani Harsha, ASP, V&E. BR Ambedkar Konaseema V. Giridhar, DSP, ACB and Hussain Peera, DSP, PTC. Vizianagaram Appa Rao, DSP, PTC. Parvathipuram Manyam K.S.S. Srinivasa Rao, DSP, Octopus. Srikakulam N. Suryachandra Rao, ASP, SEB.
Large crowds continue at Tirumala temple
Ananthapur: Heavy crowds of devotees persisted at the Tirumala temple in Andhra Pradesh over the weekend. The influx, amplified by summer vacations, resulted in serpentine queues extending to the Batagangamma temple. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) implemented elaborate arrangements to manage the large crowds. Devotees waiting in the free darshan lines, some for up to 20 hours, were provided with essential services. TTD set up 27 water distribution points to keep pilgrims hydrated. Four Annaprasadam distribution points catered to the pilgrims' needs. 25 vigilance guards and three sevaks (volunteers) were deployed at each distribution point in each shift to ensure security and offer assistance. Sources reported that in the past 10 days, approximately 2.6 lakh pilgrims ascended the Tirumala hills via the Alipiri and Srivari Mettu footpaths alone to visit the Venkateswara Swamy temple. As of Saturday evening (5 pm), nearly 46,486 devotees had darshan. For the convenience of devotees, TTD operated free shuttle buses to ferry pilgrims entering the queue lines at the Octopus circle to the Silatoranam circle. Vigilance authorities closely monitored this service to ensure its smooth operation. TTD ensured a steady supply of Annaprasadam and water throughout Tirumala, including the Mata Vaishnavite Art College (MTVAC) area, outside queue lines, and food courts. Senior TTD officials continuously supervised the arrangements to guarantee a smooth and comfortable pilgrimage experience for all devotees.
Chevireddy Lashes Out at Puliverthi Nani
Anantapur : Chandragiri MLA Chevireddy Bhaskar Reddy accused Chandragiri TD candidate Puliverthi Nani of trying to create a drama of being personally attacked at Padmavati Mahila University a few days ago. I condemn the attack on Nanis car on the university premises. But none of the YSRC cadres attacked Nani physically. He has cooked up the story of the attack, Bhaskar Reddy maintained. Speaking to media on Saturday at Tirupati, the Chandragiri MLA regretted that he, his family members and YSRC party are being needlessly blamed for physically attacking the TD candidate Nani. Bhaskar Reddy maintained that he had fielded his son from the Chandragiri assembly segment this time due to his attachment with the people of the area. He wanted his son to continue helping the people of Chandragiri, the MLA maintained. He accused the TD candidate of staging a drama of attack only to gain political mileage.
Task Force Thwarts Red Sanders Smuggling Attempt
Total seizure was 14 tonne and worth of the seized red sanders is Rs 7 crore. Meanwhile, the officials detained four agents and questioned them. DRI had seized 12.42 tonne of red sanders in June, which had sailed to Malaysia. Total seizure was 14 tonne and worth of the seized red sanders is Rs 7 crore. Meanwhile, the officials detained four agents and questioned them. DRI had seized 12.42 tonne of red sanders in June, which had sailed to Malaysia. Anantapur: In a decisive move against red sanders smuggling, a task force team successfully apprehended a four-member gang on Saturday. The team, led by SP P. Srinivas and DSP Chenchubabu, intercepted two suspicious vehicles near the Penchalakona forest in Tirupati district. The vehicles, originating from Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, were spotted moving towards the Eguva Palli reserved forest area.Upon closer inspection, officers observed the smugglers actively loading red sander logs into their vehicle. A swift operation led to the arrest of four individuals - Anbalagan, Asif Bhasha, Muthu, and Selvam - while a few others managed to escape. The task force successfully seized the vehicles involved, a tempo and a car, along with a total of 16 red sander logs. The confiscated property is estimated to be worth Rs. 40 lakh. Efforts are likely underway to apprehend the remaining members of the smuggling gang.
Poll violence: Chevireddy denies role in attack on TDP candidate Pulivarthi Nanis car in Tirupati
Regretting the role of some of his party workers in the incident at SPMVV, the Chandragiri MLA says it was a reaction to the attack on the car of his son and YSRCP candidate Mohith Reddy the previous day
CHENNAI: Some stories lie hidden amid the veils of history, leaving an indelible mark along their path. Such is the story of Lord Ranganatha of Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, nestled in the heart of Tiruchirapalli. Considered one of the largest and most revered Vaishnavite shrines in the world, this sacred site, steeped in centuries-old devotion, holds many tales, but none as remarkable as the 48-year journey of Lord Ranganatha during the Delhi Sultanate invasions in the 14th century. Bringing this history to life in the present is the dramatist and director, Bombay Kannan, with his newly curated documentary titled Arangayanam. In this film, he retraces the footsteps of those who safeguarded the deity, visiting the places where the idol was hidden and uncovering the rich stories that each of the locations holds. The film was shot by J Ganeson, who has directed it as well. To travel through forests, hills, and mountains for forty-eight years with countless deaths and hardships, all with the aim of saving an idol was a unique aspect that caught my interest, and this made me work on this story, says Kannan. The fact that information about these travels is available in scriptures, temple records, and more made it even more fascinating. This documentary, which took over a year and a half to produce, involved extensive research. Kannan explains that inscriptions on temple walls, history books, and historical documents were all crucial sources of information for the film. Despite narrating a story from a tumultuous century marked by the incursions of the Delhi Sultanate into the south, this Tamil documentary includes English subtitles to reach a wider audience, particularly younger generations. The aim is for them to experience a story that is a vital part of their rich heritage and culture. The journey that began in Srirangam was filled with trials and tribulations for the devotees, says Kannan. Documenting this by visiting around 12 actual locations to experience the paths they crossed was a lifetime experience, he adds. Some roads we travelled were difficult to access by car, which made me marvel at the plight and devotion of the devotees who carried Perumal with them, he reflects. The narrative is brought to life through stunning visuals that involve present-day settings from key sanctuaries like the Tirumala hills in Tirupati, Jothiskodi in Madurai, and Thirukkanambi on the Tamil Nadu-Kerala border, among others. These are backed by striking music and expert commentary by Kannan, where he explains the story behind each hideaway and the significance that particular place holds. This documentary, interspersed with historical narratives and insights from the present-day custodians of the temples traditions, creates a profound connection between the past and the present. It illustrates how the legacy of the 48-year journey continues to inspire devotees and history enthusiasts worldwide. More than being just a glimpse into history, this film is a spiritual journey that resonates with the timeless values of faith, resilience, and devotion. By retracing the ancient sacred trail, the team has poured their hearts into curating this production, bridging the gap between Lord Ranganathas timeless legacy and contemporary life. To access the documentary or inquire about public screenings, reach out to Bombay Kannan at 9841153973.
Four sub-teams of SIT to camp in three violence-hit districts till June 4
VIJAYAWADA: Four sub-teams of the Special Investigation Team (SIT), constituted by DGP Harish Kumar Gupta on the directions of Election Commission of India (ECI), have been stationed at four constituencies in three districtsPalnadu, Tirupati and Anantapur till June 4 to monitor the ground situation and guide investigation officers to probe the incidents of election violence. These sub-teams will be headed by additional superintendent of police rank officers. As intelligence reports indicate that there are chances that violence of serious nature may erupt in the three districts, particularly during the vote counting process on June 4, the teams were instructed to camp there till June 4 and ensure no untoward incidents are reported, said SIT head Vineet Brijlal. Based on inputs from the sub-teams on the incidents related to poll violence in three districts of the State, four more cases have been registered and arrest count has surged to 234 from 124, he explained. Additionally, police have been conducting cordon and search operations at 276 problematic locations in the State and registered 24 cases, besides seizing 1,313 vehicles and liquor, diesel and petrol worth Rs 10 lakh. Mob operations mock drills are also being demonstrated at all district headquarters and problematic areas to create awareness among the public. After being set up, the SIT has reviewed 33 cases registered in four constituencies Macherla, Narasaraopet, Tirupati and Tadipatri.
TD Questions Interim Bail for Pinnelli
Tirupati: The Andhra Pradesh High Court's decision to grant conditional anticipatory bail to Macherla MLA Pinnelli Ramakrishna Reddy in the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) vandalism case has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition Telugu Desam (TD) party leaders. Addressing the media after visiting the Tirumala temple on Friday, TD MLC Babu Rajendra Prasad questioned how the Court could issue such an interim order protecting the YSRCs Macherla MLA from arrest until June 6. The court order in the EVM vandalism case has come as a surprise. It is a known fact that the police had intentionally delayed the arrest of Pinnelli only to save him and give him enough time to get a bail, alleged Prasad. The MLC further expressed disbelief that the courts would provide protection to someone accused of tampering with EVMs, calling it an unprecedented judgment in India's history. How did the courts provide protection to the person who damaged EVMs? Prasad asked, urging the higher courts to reconsider the judgment. He stated that people's faith in democracy would only be reinstated if Ramakrishna Reddy is arrested and jailed for the alleged EVM vandalism.
Tirumala Temple Suspends VIP Darshan Due to Pilgrim Influx
TIRUPATI: Following a huge rush of devotees, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has suspended VIP break darshan at the Lord Venkateswara temple till June 30. The surge of pilgrims is attributed to the summer vacations ending in a couple of weeks, conclusion of lok Sabha elections in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana and many other states, and the declaration of examination results. The two queue complexes of Vaikuntam and Narayanagiri were overwhelmed on Friday, with lines stretching nearly four km long all the way to the Outer Ring Roads Octopus building. The TTD announced that devotees entering these queues would face a daunting wait time exceeding 30-40 hours. The suspension of VIP break darshans will continue tentatively until June 30, stated a TTD official. To support the devotees patiently enduring the long queues, we have arranged for toilets, drinking water, anna prasadam, milk and other beverages, he added. Many devotees expressed fatigue but an unwavering determination to have Lord Balaji's darshan. We've been standing for over 12 hours, and my children are exhausted and hungry. But the prospect of Lord Venkateswara's darshan makes every hardship worthwhile, said Ramesh Gupta from Delhi. During weekends, common devotees frequently endure waits of 20-24 hours. However, this season, the waiting times have extended beyond 30 hours, compelling devotees to face significant hardships. My wife and I are saddened to see our two-year-old struggling in this endless line, but we hope to see Lord Venkateswara before returning, said Sanjeev Kumar from Chittoor. Official statistics indicate around 65,416 pilgrims received darshan on Thursday. By 6 pm on Friday, over 56,000 had already concluded prayers, with thousands more awaiting entry into queues stretching far beyond the temple complexes. As a result, the TTD has stopped accepting recommendation letters for VIP darshans.
Cyclone Remal To Bring Rains to Telangana
HYDERABAD: The southwest monsoons might set in over Andhra Pradesh around June 4, said a report from IMD Amaravati on Friday. the rain clouds enter Telangana state a few days later, in the normal course. The monsoon is expected to set in over Kerala on May 31, a day earlier than norm., due to the prevailing weather system in central Bay of Bengal. IMD-Amaravati director S. Stella said that, plus or minus four days, various models had forecast that the monsoon would set in over Kerala on May 31. If conditions favoured , it might set in over Tirupati and other parts of Rayalaseema by June 4. Last year it set in over AP on June 19. An earlier IMD report in April had said the monsoon rain between June and September in the pensinsula would be above normal at 106 per cent of the long period average (LPA). Meanwhile, the first storm of the season Cyclone Remal, meaning sand in Arabic, a name suggested by Oman will intensify into a severe cyclonic storm and move towards Bangladesh. The landfall point will not be very far from the Sunderbans area of West Bengal. During landfall on Sunday, strong winds of up to 135 kmph are expected, according to IMD scientist Monica Sharma. The impact of the cyclone is projected to last for about 24 hours. In Hyderabad, the IMD said the cyclone would bring rain and cooler temperatures. For Hyderabad and the state, the IMD cautioned of 40 kmph winds and heavy rainfall in several districts.
Tragic Bridge Accident Claims Four Lives in Karnataka
Tragic Bridge Accident Claims Four Lives in Karnataka Four people died and six others suffered serious injuries after their car fell off a bridge in the early hours of Friday near Ranebennur town in this district, police said. The car allegedly fell off the bridge and crashed onto the service road, they said, adding that the family members were going to visit Tirupati from Haveri, they said. Former chief minister Basavaraj Bommai said he is deeply saddened by the incident and demanded immediate compensation from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund for the families of the deceased and injured. ''I pray that God rests the soul of the deceased and speedy recovery of the injured. I demand immediate compensation from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund to the families of the deceased and injured,'' he said in a post on social media platform X.
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams cancels VIP break darshan on weekends till June 30
With the summer vacation pilgrim rush reaching its peak, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has cancelled VIP break darshan on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays till June 30.
VIP darshan cancelled on weekends at Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam till June 30 - DTNEXT
VIP darshan cancelled on weekends at Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam till June 30 DTNEXT
TTD Cancels Break Darshans at Tirumala till June 30
Tirupati: Tirumala Tirupati Devastanam (TTD) has cancelled break darshan at Tirumala till June 30 on (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays) due to heavy rush of devotees to the temple following summer vacation, completion of elections and examinations for students. The TTD took the decision to ensure hassle free darshan for devotees and cancelled break darshan till June 30 on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. TTD will not accept the recommendation letters from devotees during this period.
616th Annamacharya birth anniversary celebrated with gaiety
TIRUMALA: The Kalyanam of Srivaru along with Sridevi and Bhudevi was held elegantly in Tallapaka on the occasion of the 616th Jayanthi fete of Saint Poet Sri Tallapaka Annamacharya on Thursday. The celestial marriage of deities was conducted under the supervision of Tirumala temple chief priest Venugopala Deekshitulu. Visakha Sarada Peethadhipathi graced the occasion and said Annamaiah proved that to get salvation by reciting the hymns of Srivaru with total surrender is the best way in Kaliyuga. In the evening, the Annamacharya Project artists rendered sankeertans and Harikatha Parayanam both at Tallpaka and also at the 108-foot-tall statue of the saint poet. Annamacharya Project Director Dr Vibhishana Sharma was also present. Tallapaka Annamacharya Jayanthi was also celebrated grandly at Annmacharya Kalamandiram in Tirupati on Thursday. The Saptagiri Sankeertana Gosti Ganam mesmerised the denizens in a big way. In the evening musical fete by Sri Balakrishna Prasad and Bullemma duo was appreciated by all.
Devotees Rejoice As Mammoth Wooden Chariot Rolls in Govinda Namam
Tirupati: The ancient Govindaraja Swamy Temple in Tirupati reverberated with spiritual fervour as thousands of devotees participated in the auspicious Rathotsavam (wooden chariot festival) on Thursday. The grand event marked the penultimate day of the annual Brahmotsavam celebrations at the revered shrine. Amid an atmosphere of profound devotion, the towering wooden chariot, exquisitely adorned with vibrant flowers, carried the divine idols of Lord Govindaraja and His consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi. The deities were placed on the mammoth Ratham after being beautifully decorated with ornaments that glinted in the mornings sunlight. The festivities commenced in the early hours of the day as the chariot began its majestic procession around the four mada streets surrounding the temple premises. Devotees thronged the streets, eagerly awaiting glimpses of the divine idols as the chariot moved along Karnala Veedhi, Beri Veedhi, and Gandhi Road. The Rathotsavam holds immense spiritual significance, symbolizing the importance of the Atma in the body represented by the five elements manifested in the Ratham itself. Lord Govindaraja Swamy, revered as the elder brother of Lord Venkateswara, drew multitudes of faithful seeking His divine blessings. The grand procession lasted three to four hours. After this, the utsava idols were given a sacred Snapana Tirumanjanam. As the evening descended, Unjal Seva and the final Aswa Vahana Seva of the Brahmotsavam were performed. The nine-day annual Brahmotsavam festivities will culminate on Friday with the Chakra Snanam.
Heightened security in Tirupati ahead of vote counting
Security personnel maintain a vigil at the Cherlapally Prison on Tuesday. (Photo: P.Surendra) Security personnel maintain a vigil at the Cherlapally Prison on Tuesday. (Photo: P.Surendra) Tirupati: Tirupati district remains on edge ahead of the vote counting on June 4. Fears of violence prompted the district authorities to sound a high alert and beef up security across the region. Sporadic clashes had occurred after the May 13 polling. A potential flare-up of old rivalries between political groups is feared once the results start coming in. Violence was reported on the polling day mainly from Kuchuvaripalle, Ramireddypalle, Pulivartivaripalle and Brahmanakaaluva areas. Even the premises of Sri Padmavati Mahila Viswa Vidyalayam, where EVMs were locked and secured after the polling, witnessed chaotic scenes. Mobs attacked Telugu Desam's Chandragiri candidate Pulivarthi Nani. The district police force drew flak for its inability to prevent such incidents. This led to the suspension of two deputy superintendents and circle inspectors. The district administration headed by collector Pravin Kumar and SP Harshavardhan Raju are trying to ensure a peaceful culmination of the democratic process. A stringent security protocol has been activated, including the imposition of ban orders under Section 144 in sensitive areas, flag marches with the aid of central security forces, intensive frisking and cordon-and-search operations across the district. On Thursday, such operations were carried out in areas under Renigunta, Puttur, Tiruchanoor, Naidupeta and Sullurpeta police stations. The authorities have maintained that the central forces will remain deployed for a fortnight more, after the counting process concludes on June 4. No victory rally or procession will be permitted across the district on the day of counting. Section 144 will be strictly enforced. Only those with prior police permission can hold celebrations in the later days, the SP said. The police have launched a crackdown on potential troublemakers. They are maintaining a vigil on villages with a history of poll-related unrest and monitoring the movement of suspects and strangers. Sale of petrol in bottles and firecrackers too has been prohibited for a period.
Tirupati district authorities gear up to tackle any violence during vote counting
Police conduct flag marches with the help of central security forces, take up intensive frisking and cordon-and-search operations across the district
Two drivers killed, 10 injured in separate accidents
TIRUPATI: The driver of a private travel bus died and 10 passengers sustained severe injuries when the bus travelling on the national highway near Sunnapubatti area of Dagadarthi mandal in Nellore district overturned. According to reports, the sleeper coach bus was en route from Vijayawada to Chennai on Tuesday night when the driver lost control of the vehicle. The bus first rammed into the road divider and then collided with an oncoming lorry. This led to the bus overturning. Bus driver Srinu (41) died on the spot, while 10 passengers suffered serious injuries. Alerted by locals, police rushed to the spot and shifted the injured passengers to a government hospital in Nellore using 108 ambulance services. In another incident near Medarametla in Bapatla district, the driver of an oil tanker rammed his vehicle into a stationary container truck. Due to the impact of the collision, the oil tanker caught fire, trapping the driver inside and charring him to death. The driver has been identified as Srinivasulu from Nellore district.
Telangana CM Revanth visits Tirumala, prays for cordial relations with AP
HYDERABAD/TIRUMALA : After offering prayers at the Srivari temple in Tirumala on Wednesday, Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy said he wished that the two Telugu states resolve all issues amicably and forge ahead on the path of development. He declared that once the new government in Andhra Pradesh is formed, he will work with the states chief minister in this direction. Speaking to reporters in Tirumala, he said, Once the new government is formed in Andhra Pradesh, I will speak with the CM and request him to allow the Telangana government to construct a choultry and a kalyana mandapam in Tirumala for the benefit of pilgrims from Telangana. Stating that he had been planning to have darshan of Lord Venkateswara since taking oath as the chief minister of Telangana, he explained that his visit to Tirumala was delayed due to administrative work and the Lok Sabha elections. However, he said, he was finally able to offer prayers at the Srivari temple along with his family on Wednesday. His grandson also had his Mundan ceremony (first hair tonsure) on the occasion. Revanth and his family had darshan of Lord Venkateswara during the 8:30 am break. Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) executive officer AV Dharma Reddy welcomed the Revanth Reddy at the temple. Later speaking to reporters, Revanth refused to speak about politics, stating that Tirumala is not the place for it. He asserted that under the Congress rule, people of Telangana, especially farmers, were happy. After a drought, the state is witnessing timely rains and water problems are being resolved. I prayed to the Lord for cordial relations with the government to be formed with Andhra Pradesh and development of both Telugu states, he added.
CM Revanth directs MLAs to step up MLC poll campaign
Hyderabad: Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has directed ministers and Congress MLAs from the undivided districts of Khammam, Warangal and Nalgonda to intensify the party's campaigning in the final three days leading up to the bypoll for the Legislative Council graduate constituency scheduled for May 27. Following his return from Tirupati, Revanth Reddy convened an online meeting with ministers and party MLAs on Wednesday, joined by Congress MLC candidate Chintakayala Naveen, also known as Teenmar Mallanna. During the meeting, the CM assessed the election and campaign strategies with ministers and MLAs, highlighting Congress's strong presence in the three districts, boasting seven ministers and 31 MLAs. He pointed out that the Opposition parties, BRS and BJP, were nowhere close to matching Congress's standing. Revanth Reddy urged participants to mobilise party workers and local leaders, emphasising effective micro-level booth management to ensure a higher voter turnout on polling day. He stressed the importance of reaching out to the 4.6 lakh graduate voters, outlining the achievements of the Congress government in addressing youth unemployment within its first 100 days in power and detailing future plans for job creation in both government and private sectors over the next four and a half years. Revanth Reddy instructed MLAs to visit every polling booth in their respective constituencies, with a focus on increasing voter turnout.
VSU Convocation: Governor Nazeer stresses need to ally curricula with needs of society
Tirupati: Governor Justice S. Abdul Nazeer, who is Chancellor of Vikrama Simhapuri University, has stressed the importance of aligning academic curricula with the evolving needs of society and equipping students with the necessary knowledge, skills and values to promote the nation's progress. Presiding over the eighth and ninth annual convocations of VSU on the university campus in Nellore on Wednesday, Governor Nazeer said the nations vision of development mandated a strategic synergy of higher education courses with the evolving exigencies of the society. In order to remain competitive and relevant in this digital age, higher education institutions must embrace digital transformation, technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI), he said. The Governor lauded the VSU for its interdisciplinary research aimed at addressing societal challenges by leveraging the abundant natural resources in its surroundings. He also appreciated the university's efforts in extending the outcomes of its research initiatives to neighbouring villages, thereby contributing to their overall development and well-being. Congratulating the graduates, postgraduates, research scholars and gold medal awardees for their outstanding achievements, the governor urged them to embrace traditional values that emphasize compassion, integrity and respect. He commended the university's commitment to societal welfare through its outreach programmes, including community development, the College-to-Village, the Lab to Land, and the social awareness initiatives. Earlier, vice chancellor Prof. G.M. Sundaravalli presented the university's annual report. G Sateesh Reddy, scientific adviser to the Union defence ministry, as the chief guest, delivered the keynote address. EC Vinay Kumar, senior consultant and coordinator, ENT department at Apollo Hospitals, was conferred the Honoris Causa during the convocation.
Intel inputs prompt AP police to beef up security ahead of counting on June 4
Vijayawada: Ahead of counting of votes on June 4, the Andhra Pradesh police beefed up security in all the sensitive areas especially in erstwhile Anantapur, Guntur and Tirupati district to prevent any untoward incidents. Following inputs from Intelligence department that violence might broke out during and after counting of votes, the police enhanced security arrangements and accordingly started conducting cordon and search operations in the sensitive areas. The police department has identified as many as 301 sensitive areas across the State. Additional police pickets were posted in these areas to instill confidence among the people. Of the total cases registered after the post-poll violence in Andhra Pradesh on May 13, the police identified over 2,790 people. Of them, a majority of the people were already arrested. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted to probe into post-poll violence in several parts of Andhra Pradesh already submitted a detailed report to the Director-General of Police Harish Kumar Gupta on Monday. As part of investigation, the SIT headed by IG Vineet Brijlal inspected the violence-hit areas and collected field-level information to know the factors that contributed to violence. The SIT members spoke to the investigating officers (IOs) in the trouble prone areas in Palnadu, Narsaraopet, Chandragiri in Tirupati and Tadipatri in Anantapur district and collected information on the status of cases that were booked after violence broke out. Feedback of victims was also obtained.
Thunderstorms likely in parts of Andhra for next three days
VISAKHAPATNAM : The State is likely to experience thunderstorms accompanied by lightning at isolated places over the next three days due to a cyclonic circulation over the Southwest Bay of Bengal coast, extending up to 3.1 km above mean sea level. This circulation is likely to lead to the formation of a low-pressure area over the southwest Bay of Bengal by May 22. The low-pressure system is expected to move northeastward and concentrate into a depression over the central parts of the Bay of Bengal by the morning of May 24, with further intensification expected. On Wednesday, light rains with scattered thunderstorms are expected in Vizianagaram, Parvathipuram Manyam, Alluri Sitarama Raju (ASR), Anakapalli, East Godavari, West Godavari, Eluru, Krishna, NTR, Guntur, Bapatla, and Palnadu districts. On Thursday, light to moderate rains with scattered thundershowers are likely in Parvathipuram Manyam, ASR, Kakinada, Konaseema, East Godavari, West Godavari, and Eluru districts. Additionally, light rains with scattered thundershowers are expected in Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, Anakapalli, Krishna, NTR, Guntur, Bapatla, Palnadu, Prakasam, Nellore, Kurnool, Nandyala, Anantapur, Sri Sathya Sai, YSR, Annamaiya, Chittoor, and Tirupati districts. On Friday, light to moderate rains with isolated thundershowers are likely in ASR, Anakapalli, Kakinada, Kurnool, Nandyala, Anantapur, Sri Sathya Sai, YSR, Annamaiya, Chittoor, and Tirupati districts. Also, light rain with scattered thundershowers is expected in Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Parvathipuram Manyam, Visakhapatnam, Konaseema, East Godavari, West Godavari, Eluru, Prakasam, Nellore, Kurnool, and Nandyala districts. On Saturday, light to moderate rains with isolated thundershowers are expected in Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Manyam, ASR, Vizag and Anakapalli districts. Light rain with scattered thundershowers is likely in Kakinada, Sri Sathya Sai, YSR, Annamaiah, Chittoor, and Tirupati districts. The (APSDMA advised the people to remain alert during thunderstorms. Farmers, agricultural labourers, and cattle shepherds are advised to avoid staying under trees and in open places during these conditions. As of 5 pm on Tuesday, rainfall recorded included 26.5 mm in Anantapur district, 22.5 mm in Chittoor, 22 mm in Anantapur, and 21.5 mm Chittoor district. On Tuesday, Kurnool recorded the highest maximum temperature of 390 C.
Yogi Vemana University cultivates 12,000 red sanders saplings
KADAPA : In a pioneering conservation effort, Yogi Vemana University (YVU) is cultivating and conserving 12,000 endangered red sanders (Pterocarpus Santalinus) saplings, as part of a state-sanctioned project. Found primarily in the Seshachalam hill ranges, these trees are threatened by rampant smuggling and are nearing endangered stage according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). In 2021, the Andhra Pradesh State Biodiversity Board sanctioned a conservation project for red sanders to Yogi Vemana University. Under this project, the university is cultivating and conserving 12,000 red sanders saplings in an extent of 5 acres in its botanical gardena first-of-its-kind initiative among Indian universities on such a large scale. Shortly after the projects approval, under the supervision of YVU vice-chancellor Prof Chinta Sudhakar, Professor of Botany Dr A Madhusudhan Reddy, and his team of research scholars initiated field visits and surveys with permission from the Forest Department. They conducted surveys on red sanders and associated flora in the forest areas of Palkonda, Guvvalachervu, Rajampet, Railway Kodur, Talakona, Sannipai, Lankamala, Tirumala hills, Kadapa, Annamayya, Prakasam, Nellore, Tirupati, Nandyal, and Chittoor districts within the Seshachalam and Nallamala forest regions. The aim of the survey is to gather comprehensive data on the distribution, population, and ecological aspects of the tree. By undertaking this extensive field research, the team hopes to generate crucial insights that will aid in the conservation and sustainable management of red sanders and its associated ecosystems within the regions forests. In June, 2022, around 5,000 red sanders saplings were planted in three plots near the botanical garden using drip irrigation. Another 7,000 saplings were planted in August, 2023. Proper cultivation, monitoring, and maintenance are being carried out, with a 100% survival rate for the planted saplings. It is estimated that after 30-40 years, the sale of these trees could generate a revenue of around `500 crore for the university, enabling self-reliance. The demand for red sanders wood is high in countries like China, Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Canada, the UK, the USA, and the Gulf nations. The wood is used in cosmetics, jewellery, chess pieces, medicines, paintings, and classical furniture making. To involve local communities, the university has formed 20 Biodiversity Monitoring Committees (BMCs) in nearby villages. Awareness programmes are being held for BMCs, students, and the public on planting and conserving red sanders trees. The project is being carried out successfully under the guidance of the universitys V-C and with support from the Andhra Pradesh Biodiversity Board Chairman BMK Reddy, and member secretary Krishnamurthy.
SIT Report on Poll Violence Sent to ECI
Vijayawada : The special investigation teams primary report on poll-related violence in AP was sent to the Election Commission and the states higher officials are waiting for its response. Chief secretary Jawahar Reddy held a meeting with DGP Harish Gupta at the state secretariat on Tuesday and discussed the SIT report. According to official sources, the SIT team formed on the orders of the Election Commission exposed the failure of the police to control the violence. The teams toured major violence-hit Palnadu, Tirupati and Anantapur districts for two days and examined 33 police cases in six constituencies. SIT chief Vineet Brijlal and SP Rama Devi handed over the 150-page report to DGP Harish Gupta on Monday evening and this was forwarded to EC on Tuesday. The sources said the SIT identified numerous lapses in the police investigation of these cases and asked the investigation officers for compliance at the earliest. In strong actions, the state government has already transferred Palnadu Collector and Tirupati SP, while the SPs of Palnadu and Anantapur districts and 12 police officers were suspended for their alleged failure to control poll violence. The CS and the DGP discussed the SIT in detail at Tuesdays meeting, reviewed the situation and are now awaiting EC guidance for the follow-up actions.
Revanth Reddy visits Tirumala for Lord Venkateswara darshan
TIRUPATI : Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, along with his family members, arrived in the holy town of Tirumala on Tuesday night for darshan of Lord Venkateswara, his first visit after assuming office. Revanth Reddy and his family landed at Renigunta airport by a special flight from Hyderabad in the evening. They travelled by road to Tirumala, where they were accorded a warm welcome by A.V. Dharma Reddy, TTD executive officer, and other officials at the Rachana Guest House. The Chief Minister and his family will stay overnight in Tirumala and have darshan on Wednesday morning.It was reported that Revanth Reddy's grandson's tonsuring ceremony will take place at Tirumala during their visit. TTD authorities have made elaborate arrangements to ensure a smooth darshan for Revanth Reddy and his family and tight security measures are in place. Revanth Reddy Is scheduled to return to Hyderabad later on Wednesday.
Men don womens attire to honour Gangamma in Tirupatis Ganga Jatara
With its origins in ancient folk lore, the practice is prevalant on the last day of the annual festival
BYJUS starts new batches in 240 centres across India
BYJU'S Tuition Centres (BTCs), India's largest and strongest network of learning centres, have started batches for the 2024-25 academic session in full swing across their 240 locations. BTCs provide classroom-based programs for K-12 students, complemented by access to BYJU'S entire digital learning universe. For the current academic year, BYJU'S has dropped the annual fee for BTCs to just INR 36,000, making it more affordable than even neighbourhood tuition classes, while offering a far superior quality of curriculum, pedagogy, and delivery. BYJU'S has also seen a strong inbound interest for the role of teachers, receiving nearly 1200 applications per day over the last two months. On May 19th, Byju Raveendran, Founder and CEO of BYJU'S, addressed all BTC centre heads and shared an innovative new business model, based on intrapreneurship. I want you to see yourselves as part-owners of these centres, not just managers, he said. Under this model, BTC centre heads will receive a share of profits from their centre's operations, provided they meet minimum thresholds for admissions and quality over a one-year period. We have invested crores of rupees in each centre. And you get to part-own it, free of cost! There is a floor we have prepared for you. But there is no ceiling. How much you want to grow is up to you, he added. The heads have also been empowered to hire their own teams and even rehire former BYJU'S employees. BTCs have huge potential to transform the supplementary education experience for millions of students across India, said Byju Raveendran. With the right programs, dedicated teachers, enabling technology and a sustainable financial model, I believe we can take BTCs to remarkable heights in terms of both scale and impact. The 240 hybrid learning centres of BTC, with the 300 plus centres of Aakash, make the BYJU'S group one of the largest networks of learning centres across India with presence across diverse locations like Bilaspur, Kharar, Dibrugarh, Vapi, Latur, Asansol, Dhule, and Tirupati, taking quality education to the deepest parts of India.
Tirupati Gangamma Jatara Ends on a grand note
Every year, the fair is organized for seven days in the month of May. Thousands of devotees from different places flock to this fair
YSRC makes representation to SIT chief on poll violence
VIJAYAWADA: A YSRC delegation made a representation to Special Investigation Team chief Vineet Brijlal on Monday, pertaining to poll violence. The delegation comprising ministers Ambati Rambabu and Jogi Ramesh, former ministers Perni Nani and Ravela Kishore Babu, MLAs Malladi Vishnu and K Anil Kumar, MLC Lella Appi Reddy, and party legal cell president Manohar Reddy, submitted two representations to the SIT chief, one regarding violence in Macherla, and the other on violence at several places in the State. Speaking to the media, Ambati said some police officials had colluded with the TDP, which resulted in violence on the polling day and the aftermath in Tirupati, Palnadu and Anantapur districts. He reiterated that acting on the complaints of State BJP chief D Purandeswari and TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu, the ECI transferred the police officials without conducting proper inquiry into the matter. But unfortunately, even after the transfer of police officials, violence took place in those districts. What was the need for changing the police officials, who were already aware of the situation, and quite capable of dealing with it? he questioned. Pointing out that police personnel destroyed CCTV cameras in the house of YSRC MLA Kethireddy Pedda Reddy in Tadipatri, and vandalised his house, Ambati said it was evident that the police and the TDP were hand in glove. In several violence-hit villages, normalcy is yet to be restored. Police are foisting false cases against YSRC leaders, he said, demanding an inquiry into the call data of the CIs in the strife-torn areas on the polling day and the day after. Accusing TDP leaders of resorting to violence, Ramesh said police were either helping them or remaining mute spectators.
Andhra Pradesh: CS submits SIT report to ECI, 33 cases booked in three districts
VIJAYAWADA: Chief Secretary KS Jawahar Reddy on Monday submitted the preliminary report of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) that probed the incidents of violence reported on the day of polling (May 13) and the aftermath in the districts of Palnadu, Tirupati and Sri Sathya Sai to the Election Commission of India (ECI). During its two-day investigation, the 13-member SIT found that many of these offences were extremely serious in nature because a multitude of miscreants brazenly participated in the offences as two groups, pelting stones indiscriminately, which potentially could lead to serious injury or even death. The SIT also identified many lapses in the investigation and gave clear instructions to investigation officers to submit a compliance report at the earliest. In the 150-page report, SIT head Vineet Brijlal mentioned that a total of 1,370 people were named as accused in 33 cases registered in the three districts in connection with poll related violence. The SIT sub-teams thoroughly reviewed the cases filed and the investigation done so far by going through the records, visiting the scene of offences, interacting with investigation officers and aggrieved parties, verifying the physical evidence collected, witness statements, whether appropriate sections of law were applied or not, whether all incidents were registered as cases or not and whether accused identified were arrested or not. Poll violence 22 cases in Palnadu 4 Tirupati 7 Anantapur Accused cited in FIRs 1,370 731 identified 639 yet to be identified 124 arrested 94 given notices Officials told to complete pending arrests soon In all the 33 cases, a total of 1,370 people were cited as accused and 124 among them were arrested, and notices under Section 41A of CrPC were served on 94 persons. The investigation officers concerned have been asked to complete the pending arrests of the accused at the earliest, reads the report. Special teams were formed to identify and apprehend the pending accused at the district level and investigation officers were instructed to file memos in the respective courts for adding appropriate sections of the law. Vineet Brijlal submitted the report to the DGP, who in turn submitted the same to the Chief Secretary and the ECI. After getting the SIT report, the DGP directed the district SPs concerned to complete the investigation in coordination with SIT sub-teams. It is learnt that the ECI may initiate action against the errant officials based on the preliminary report of SIT, for their failure to prevent the poll violence and lapses in case investigation. It may be recalled that the DGP constituted the SIT to review the cases filed and status of investigation pertaining to incidents of violence reported on the day of polling and the aftermath in the State, as per the directions of the ECI.
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Cancellation of flight irks passengers at Tirupati airport - The Hindu
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