BDA moves to curtail illegal constructions in Dr Shivarama Karanth layout extension

BENGALURU: The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has recently instructed the Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (BESCOM) to withhold power connections to illegal buildings emerging in areas marked for acquisition under the Dr Shivarama Karanth Layout extension project. Additionally, it has directed Block Development Officers of Gram Panchayats not to issue Khata certificates for such constructions. Letters to this effect have been issued by Executive Engineers to the concerned organisations in an attempt to tackle the growing problem of unauthorised structures in the region. A senior BDA official explained, The layout has already been developed with 34,000 regular sites and 4,500 corner sites across 3,546 acres of land. It spans 17 villages between Doddaballapur and Hesaraghatta. Earlier this year, BDA proposed to expand the layout by an additional 2,095 acres. Property owners, aware of this proposal, have been rapidly constructing illegal buildings since March to prevent the acquisition of their land. To counter this trend, BDA is conducting demolitions three times a week, the official revealed. However, given the vastness of the area, new constructions continue to appear. If a family obtains a power connection or Khata certificate, it becomes extremely challenging to remove them from the property. Therefore, our engineers are employing a different strategycutting off access to electricity. When people realise power connections are denied, those planning illegal constructions might also be discouraged, the official added. The New Indian Express has accessed a copy of the BDAs letter, which highlights that land parcels in Avalahalli, Anantapura, Ramagondanahalli, Allasandra, Rajanakunte, Judicial Layout, Yelahanka, and Rajanakunte are among the areas identified for extension. The letter further notes, In some cases, areas designated for parks and other civic amenities in our proposed plan have been sold off by owners to unsuspecting buyers. The Justice A. V. Chandrashekhar Committee has overseen the layouts development, which was completed by December 2023. However, the project awaits approval from the High Court to proceed with allotments.

Depression in Bay likely on Nov 25: IMD

Visakhapatnam :A low pressure area over southeast Bay of Bengal is likely to be formed on November 23, said a report issued by IMD, amaravathi on Tuesday. The report said an upper air cyclonic circulation is likely to form over South Andaman Sea and adjoining areas around November 21. It is likely to move west-northwestwards and become a low pressure area over southeast Bay of Bengal around November 23. Thereafter, it is likely to continue to move west-northwestwards and intensify into a depression over southwest Bay of Bengal during subsequent two days. A continuous watch is being maintained for further intensification and movement of the system towards Tamil Nadu - Sri Lanka coasts, the report said. Under the influence of the low pressure system, moderate to heavy rains with isolated very heavy rains likely to occur over South coastal AP (Nellore, Prakasam) and Rayalaseema(Tirupati, Annamayya, Chittoor SSS, Anantapur, YSR) and light to moderate rains likely over remaining parts of AP during November 26 to November 29. Light to moderate rains are likely to continue over south coastal AP and Rayalaseema till December 1. The IMD asked the farmers to take precautionary measures and harvest crops before November 25.

SC issues notice to Y.S. Avinash

Anantapur: The Supreme Court has issued notices to Kadapa MP Y.S. Avinash Reddy in connection with a petition filed by Dr. Sunitha, seeking the cancellation of his bail in the murder case of her father, former MP Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy. A bench led by Chief Justice Sanjeev Khanna examined the petition in which Dr. Sunitha alleged that Y.S. Avinash Reddy and his associates were threatening witnesses in the case. Siddartha Luthra, representing the deceaseds daughter, informed the Supreme Court that YS Avinash Reddy, who is accused and listed as A-8 in the murder case, played a key role in the crime. Luthra further highlighted that Dr. Chaitanya Reddy, the son of another accused, Shivashankar Reddy, visited the district prison under the guise of conducting health check-ups for prisoners. During this visit, he allegedly threatened Sheik Dastagiri, who had turned approver in the case, urging him to give a statement against the CBI. When the Supreme Court bench questioned whether Dr. Chaitanya Reddy was a regular doctor at the prison, Luthra clarified that he was not, and his visit had been unauthorized, violating prison norms. Luthra urged the bench to include Dr. Chaitanya Reddy and the state government as respondents in the case. The bench agreed and issued notices to both YS Avinash Reddy and Dr. Chaitanya Reddy. The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing for the first week of March 2025.

US NSF director to attend Satya Sai varsity convocation

Anantapur: Dr. Sethuraman Panchanathan, Director of the U.S. National Science Foundation, will be the chief guest at the 43rd Annual Convocation of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (Deemed to be University) on November 22. The convocation will take place at the Poornachandra Auditorium in Prasanthi Nilayam, Satya Sai district, as part of the celebrations for the 99th birth anniversary of Saibaba.According to sources from the Sathya Sai Central Trust, Vice-Chancellor Prof. B. Raghavendra Prasad will deliver the inaugural address. The Chancellor, Sri K. Chakravarthi, will preside over the ceremony, which will see the awarding of degrees to students in undergraduate, postgraduate, professional, and doctoral research programs. In the evening, students will present a convocation drama titled Tat Twam Asi , which will be streamed live from the Sai Kulwant Hall at Prasanthi Mandir on the official YouTube channel. As part of the ongoing birth anniversary celebrations, International Womens Day was also observed at Sai Kulwant Hall on Tuesday, following a tradition established by Baba to mark the occasion on November 19 every year.

Rathotsavam in Puttaparthi heralds 99th birth anniversary fete of Sathya Sai Baba

ANANTAPUR : Sri Sathya Sai Babas 99th birth anniversary celebrations got off to a grand start with fervour and devotion at Prasanthi Nilayam in the Sathya Sai district on Monday. On the first day of the celebrations, the Lord Venugopala Swamy Rathotsavam started at the Gopuram Gate and headed towards the Sathemma temple in Puttaparthi. Priests offered pooja to Lord Venugopala Swamy and at the Baba Maha Samadhi. The Rathotsavam was organised by the Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust. Its trustee RJ Rathnakar, former minister Palle Raghunath Reddy, Sathya Sai district SP Rathna and several other dignitaries were present. Traffic was diverted at Puttaparthi during the Rathotsavam. The district administration made elaborate arrangements for the birth anniversary events that would last a week. The annual convocation of the Sathya Sai Higher Education Institutes will be held on Nov 22. The birth anniversary events would conclude on Nov 23. RTC is operating special buses to Puttaparthi from various towns in the district.

New TTD Board Resolves to Retire, Transfer Non-Hindu Staff

Anantapur : The newly appointed board of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), at its first meeting presided over by chairman B.R. Naidu at the Annamayya Bhavan in Tirumala on Monday, unanimously resolved to transfer or retire its employees who belong to religions other than Hindu religion. Informing media about the decisions taken by the board, the TTD chairman made it clear that non-Hindu employees will not be permitted to continue working for TTD. They will be given the option of retiring voluntarily or will be transferred to other departments. The resolution we have passed will be sent to the state government for further action, Naidu stated. With regard to other decisions, the chairman pointed out that several VIPs, mostly political leaders of various parties, speak about political issues to media after having darshan of Lord Venkateswara Swamy at Tirumala. He said the board has decided not to allow politics-related press conferences. We will book cases against those who speak politics at the holy pilgrim centre, he declared. Naidu said an expert committee will be formed to examine the use of artificial intelligence to ensure sarva darshan of Lord Venkateswara for devotees within 23 hours, instead of them waiting in long queues for hours together. The first meeting of the newly appointed board took several other key decisions, including cancelling controversial resolutions passed by the previous boards under the previous YSRC government. Accordingly, it will cancel allotment of darshan tickets through the Tourism department. Presently, about 4,000 darshan tickets are allotted to devotees arriving through Tourism departments of various states using different modes of transportation like air and buses. We have noticed misuse of these tickets. Tirumala is not a tourist place, but purely a spiritual centre. Hence, no tickets will be allotted for tourism, the chairman underlined. The board passed a resolution asking the state government to cancel allotment of 20 acres of land near Alipiri to build Mumtaz Hotel, as it is hurting the sentiments of devotees. Following the controversy over Srivani Trust funds being deposited in a separate account, the TTD board announced that the amount will be credited into the main trust account of TTD, while continuing Srivani services. The board has decided to cancel the lease of land given to Sri Sarada Peetham near Gogarbham Dam for violation of norms. The board decided to rename Srinivasa Sethu as Garuda Varadhi. The previous government has changed the name of Garuda Varadhi to Srinivasa Sethu. The original name is thus being restored. The TTD board has proposed to withdraw deposits from private banks and deposit the same in public sector banks. This issue will be discussed in detail at the next board meeting. As per another decision, additional prasadam will be added to the menu of Anna Prasada Bhavanam. executive officer Syamala Rao was present at the meeting. The chairman and EO released TTD calendars on the occasion.

Two electrocuted while loading bananas into vehicle

Anantapur: Two men were electrocuted while loading bananas onto a vehicle in Mahanandi Mandal, Nandyal district, on Sunday. The deceased have been identified as Sheik Nagoor Bhaha from Abbepuram and Raghavendra from Nunepalli. The tragic incident occurred near Thimmapuram, where the duo was unloading bananas into the vehicle. After filling the vehicle, they came into contact with live electrical wires and were electrocuted on the spot. Mahanandi electricity assistant engineer (AE) Prabhakar Reddy confirmed that the accident took place when the victims accidentally touched the live wires while shifting the agricultural produce.

A.R. Rahman participates in Kadapa Dargah Urs celebrations

ANANTAPUR : The Kadapa Ameen Peer Pedda Dargah Urs celebrations began with great fervor on Saturday night, following the Gandothsavam procession. Devotees, led by the Dargah's pontiff Arifulla Hussaini, brought offerings of Mulang and participated in a procession to the dargah. The Gandham ceremony, a key part of the Urusu, was conducted with a procession and the presentation of the Chadar. Bollywood music director AR Rahman also participated in the event, offering a Chadar and prayers at the dargah. Kadapa MLA Sridevi and several district officials also attended and offered their prayers as part of the ongoing celebrations. Large crowds of devotees from across the state gathered to take part in the celebrations, which included vibrant Qawwali performances that captivated the attendees. The district administration made arrangements to manage the influx of visitors.

Expert Pulmonologists Brief Participants at the Lung Talks Conference in Anantapur on Sunday.

Anantapur: Anantapur hosted the first-ever Lung Talks conference in the Rayalaseema region on Sunday, aimed at raising awareness about lung health among medical professionals. The event, organised by KIMS Hospitals Kondapur and KIMS Saveera Anantapur, was inaugurated by Anantapur district collector Dr. Vinod Kumar, who lit the ceremonial lamp. The one-day conference attracted a large audience of doctors, medical students and postgraduates from Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, offering them insights into lung-related health issues. Key topics discussed included the diagnosis, treatment, and management of complex pulmonary conditions such as Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD), Tuberculosis (TB), and lung cancer. Sessions also included practical demonstrations on advanced medical techniques, such as flexible and rigid bronchoscopy, Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS), cryotherapy, thoracoscopy, and ventilator settings. Experts also discussed the use of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) for severe lung conditions. The conference highlighted the importance of accessible, state-of-the-art healthcare facilities in Rayalaseema, particularly in Anantapur, to improve local access to lung health care. KIMS Hospitals' CMD Dr. Bollineni Bhaskar Rao, along with KIMS Saveera Hospitals MD Mr. S.V. Kishore Reddy, emphasised the need for increased awareness and expertise in treating lung diseases.

Teachers union demands judicial probe into illegal promotions

ANANTAPUR : The Navyandhra Teachers Association has urged the state government to initiate a judicial investigation into the illegal promotions of Assistant Directors in the Education Department. The union's leaders, state president Karanam Harikrishna and secretary Maganti Srinivasa Rao, highlighted that these promotions have violated established norms over the past five years. The association claims that more than 22 assistant directors, who were promoted to deputy education officer (DEO) roles, should be reverted to their original posts. They allege that seven Assistant Directors were promoted to Diet Principal positions without fulfilling the required qualifications. The union further criticized the lack of basic knowledge of psychology among these officials, pointing out that in other states, Assistant Directors are not assigned district-level posts in the Education Department. Harikrishna emphasized that the promotions of DEOs, DyEOs, and Diet Principals across the state should be investigated by a sitting judge to ensure accountability. He also referenced a High Court order that grants only Zilla Parishad principals and mandal education officers the authority to take additional responsibilities for the DEO role.

Andhra Pradesh BJP activist killed over property dispute in Anantapur district

BJP State president D. Purandeswari condemns murder, demand immediate arrest of the accused

Conference on lung health organised at Anantapur in Andhra Pradesh

The programme aims to promote local access to quality health care for lung-related ailments

From Anantapur to global dance stage

TIRUPATI: At the age of 40, Dr Vasanth Kiran Rayasam from Anantapur district is a name celebrated in classical dance circles. A master of Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam, Dr Vasanths contributions as a performer, choreographer, and teacher have left an indelible mark, both in India and abroad. His journey is steeped in tradition, having trained under stalwarts like Dr Vempati Chinna Satyam in Kuchipudi and Mandakini Udupi in Bharatanatyam. Beyond performance, his academic pursuits are equally remarkable, holding multiple degrees, including a Ph.D. in Management and gold medals in dance studies. Over the years, Vasanth has showcased Indian classical arts across 35 countries, presenting spellbinding choreographies like Ardhasaankaram and Pandurangam Bhaje at events such as the Khajuraho Dance Festival and Mysore Dasara. He has composed more than 100 dance pieces, many performed globally. His teaching has also been transformative. As the founding head of performing arts departments at Alliance University and REVA University, he combined arts and management to inspire a new generation of performers. Now, through Bharata Kala Grama, a Gurukulam in Karnataka, he offers free training to underprivileged students, keeping the arts accessible and alive. Recognised with the Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar in 2020, his stature continues to grow. He recently performed at the consecration of the Ayodhya Ram Temple and the opening of Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, graced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Art has the power to unify and empower, he said, reflecting his passion for nurturing young talent. For him, teaching is not just about creating dancers but thinkers who carry forward Indias cultural heritage. Starting his journey from rural Karnataka to global stages, Dr Vasanths odyssey is a testament to how tradition, innovation, and dedication can inspire and empower generations.

Cricket association plans to set up three specialised academies in Andhra

VIJAYAWADA: Under the leadership of its new president, Vijayawada MP Kesineni Sivanath (Chinni), the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) is set to expand its reach to transform Andhra Pradesh into a hub for cricket talent. Drawing inspiration from the Hyderabad Cricket Association, the ACA aims to set up three specialised academies for senior, junior, and women cricketers in Mulapadu, Vizianagaram, and Anantapur, respectively. Speaking with TNIE, Sivanath shared that construction of the Vizianagaram and Anantapur academies will be completed within the next month and a half. The Mulapadu Cricket Stadium, located near Vijayawada, is also slated for development as a Centre of Excellence, to rival Bengalurus renowned facilities. The ACA aims to boost cricket infrastructure across the State. Sivanath revealed plans to create cricket grounds with full amenities, including pitches, nets, and coaching facilities, in all 175 assembly constituencies of AP. This initiative aims to nurture rural talent and prepare players for both national and international competitions. The first phase will see the completion of 50 grounds within a year. The ACA is also focused on upgrading the States two international cricket stadiums, Visakhapatnam and Mangalagiri. A special committee has been set up to evaluate the Mangalagiri stadium, which has remained unused for several years. Sivanath mentioned that consultants involved in constructing the Narendra Modi Stadium in Gujarat have been contacted for the reconstruction and upgrade of both venues. Particular emphasis is being placed on upgrading Visakhapatnams international stadium, with the introduction of state-of-the-art facilities designed to host Indian Premier League (IPL) matches. Two IPL games have already been proposed in Visakhapatnam, in collaboration with GMR Group. After the IPL, further remodelling will ensure the stadium meets the latest international standards. Discussions are ongoing with Robin Singh for the mens team and Mithali Raj for the womens team. Sivanath stressed the ACAs commitment to fostering talent capable of representing India at international games and excelling in the IPL. He also reaffirmed the associations dedication to shaping the future of cricketers.

Huge Crowds at Srisailam for Kartheeka Pournami Celebrations

Anantapur: Large crowds of devotees gathered at the Srisailam Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy and Goddess Bramarambhika Temple on Friday to celebrate the auspicious Kartheeka Pournami. The temple authorities, led by the Executive Officer and staff, conducted the significant Jwala Thoranam ritual, where devotees participated in offering lighted lamps to the deity. Earlier, devotees took a holy dip at the Patalaganga, and priests performed the Harathi for River Krishnamma as part of the Kartheeka Pournami celebrations. Similar ceremonies were held at Shiva and Vishnu temples across the Rayalaseema region, where thousands of devotees participated in lighting deepams at the temples.

AP Declares 54 Mandals Drought-Affected

Telugu Desam AP president K. Atchannaidu has described Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy as psycho for raising the issue of Visakhapatnam as capital while the case is pending in the Supreme Court. (Twitter) Telugu Desam AP president K. Atchannaidu has described Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy as psycho for raising the issue of Visakhapatnam as capital while the case is pending in the Supreme Court. (Twitter) Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh agriculture minister K. Atchannaidu announced that 54 mandals across five districtsAnnamayya, Chittoor, Sri Sathya Sai, Anantapur, and Kurnoolhave been declared drought-affected for the Kharif season. Responding to a question during the Question Hour in the Legislative Council on Friday, the minister explained that the shortage of rainfall during the Kharif season had severely impacted several crops. He clarified that the revenue department, which handles disaster management, is responsible for assessing and analyzing the impact indicators in mandals before declaring them drought-hit. Accordingly, Anantapur has 19 mandals, Chittor 16, Sri Satya Sai-10, Anantapur-seven while Kurnool has two mandals announced drought-hit.

Unexpected rains in November worry farmers in Anantapur

Historically, rainfall in Anantapur district is relatively low during this month

Anantapur SP envisages action plan to curb drug use

The risks associated with drug addiction include the potential for life-threatening conditions, the district police chief said

Ravindra Reddy Remanded in Judicial Custody

Anantapur: YSRC social media activist Varra Ravindra Reddy was sent to 14 days of judicial custody by the Kadapa Court on Tuesday. Ravindra Reddy, who was arrested near Markapuram at the Telangana border on Sunday, was produced before the court, which ordered his judicial remand. The Magistrate also directed police to conduct a medical examination for Ravindra Reddy, who claimed he had been severely beaten by police and threatened with dire consequences unless he confessed to the involvement of Kadapa MP Y. S. Avinash Reddy in his case. Ravindra Reddy was transferred to Kadapa RIMS for medical treatment and then moved to Kadapa District Prison. Meanwhile, the court instructed police to release two of Ravindra Reddy's close aides by issuing notices under Section 41 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC).

Central varsity starts 1-year Sanskrit course

Anantapur: A year-long Dev Vani Sanskrit language for all course to encourage students and elders to learn the ancient language has been introduced by AP Central University, Anantapur. Vice chancellor Prof Kori said the course is run at the Non-Formal Sanskrit Education Centre of the university by Central Sanskrit University, New Delhi. All those above age 15, such as students, retired teachers, teachers, women, men, industrialists, advocates, engineers, journalists, social workers etc can learn the language easily, he said. Students are taught simple Sanskrit conversation, Sanskrit reading, Sanskrit writing, Sanskrit alphabet teaching, Sanskrit pronunciation, verse reading, stotra reading, Sanskrit song singing, Sanskrit story reading, sports etc. Classes will run an hour a day, thrice a week at the JNTU Road, Chinmaya Nagar campus of CU Anantapur and at the Bukkarayasamudram mandal campus of Janthaluru village. The class time will be in the morning or evening. Classroom teaching materials and exercise books will be provided by the university. The fee is `1500. The course will be entirely offline. After the course, an examination will be conducted online. Those who pass the exam will be given a certificate by the Central Sanskrit University, New Delhi. For admission to this course, the centre faculty, Acharya Vishal Prasad Bhatt, may be contacted on 9756076965 by phone or via WhatsApp message.

Mismatch in Data of AP Delaying One Student-One Nation Concept

Kakinada: Mismatch in student data is delaying information related to Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry (APAAR) in Andhra Pradesh. Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has introduced APAAR as part of its one student-one nation concept to digitally Identify students across the country. The data is being gathered from students of Class 1 to X and Intermediate. As part of the concept, students will have an ID card, which will reflect her / his entire academic profile, including their date of birth certificate and Aadhaar number. Data of students thus has to be collected with utmost care, without any mistakes like in date of birth and Aadhaar number as otherwise, this will adversely affect the student's career. All government and private schools have to register this data and send it to the education department. According to officials, data of 54,23,592 of 80,38,812 total students (67.47 per cent) has been registered in AP. However, Nellore, Sri Satya Sai and Anantapur districts are lagging behind in generating the APAAR Data. AP United Teachers Federation (UTF) state president N. Venkateswarlu has pointed out that while registering APAAR data, the school record, UDISE (Unified District Information System for Education, Aadhaar card, date of birth certificate and related documents should match. In case there is any mismatch, APAAR does not take the data. Venkateswarlu said school records and UDISE can be verified at the school-level, but Aadhaar cannot. Kakinada district UTF general secretary Chakravarthi said teachers of schools are coming under pressure, as many of them do not have knowledge about computers. He suggested that the state government can deploy a computer technician for the purpose. West Godavari district education officer (DEO) S. Narayana told Deccan Chronicle that in case there is a mismatch in Aadhaar card, it takes 15 to 21 days for parents to update their Aadhaar card. East Godavari district collector Shanmohan Sagili said the state government has prepared an Integrated Skill Development Plan for students and APAAR is very important for it. He instructed officials to complete the data by November 16. He warned private educational institutes that their recognition will otherwise be cancelled. He pointed out that there are 3,42,298 students in the district of which data has been generated for only 2,17,535 students. School headmasters point out that many students are not having Aadhaar numbers so far. Unless parents submit the birth certificates of their children, Aadhaar centres are not updating or generating the Aadhaar number. They feel delays because of these glitches should be taken into consideration by the state government.

Anantapur enforcement dirve: police register over 3,000 cases against violators of Motor Vehicle Act

In the drive conducted over one week, police register 12 cases against gambling dens, arrest 59 persons and seize more than 1.91 lakh cash, says SP P. Jagadeesh

Second list of nominated posts leaves many disappointed in three Rayalaseema districts

KADAPA/ANANTAPUR/KURNOOL: The second list of nominated posts released by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has left many aspirants of the NDA coalition in the erstwhile undivided Kadapa, Anantapur and Kurnool districts of Rayalaseema region disappointed. The post of Kadapa RTC Zone Chairman has been given to Anantapur TDP leader Poola Nagaraju, which has raised eyebrows, considering the absence of representation from Kadapa. Additionally, two corporation chairperson posts have been allotted to Railway Koduru Assembly constituency in the erstwhile united Kadapa district. However, there has been no place for Kadapa legislators in the State Cabinet, and no one from the district has been made Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams Trust Board member, which has fuelled further discontent. In the first list of nominated posts, Kadapa was meted out a raw deal. The disappointment has continued in the second list also as no local leaders have found a place in it. During the 2024 general elections, the TDP achieved an impressive victory in Kadapa, winning five out of the seven Assembly segments. The allotment of corporation chairperson posts to TDP aspirants of Kadapa might have helped the party strengthen its base further in the district, a political analyst observed. Only a few leaders like former MLC Bachala Pullaiah from Proddatur and BJP district president Vangala Sashibhushan Reddy got director posts. However, Pullaiah wrote a letter to the Chief Minister expressing his unwillingness to accept the directors post. After the release of the second list, several leaders, including TDP Politburo member R Srinivasa Reddy, former MLAs M Linga Reddy and K Vijayamma, as well as several other party veterans from various constituencies, are said to have expressed their dissatisfaction. However, they seem to be unable to voice their discontent openly as the TDP leaderships decision is final in the party matters, the analyst said. Despite intense lobbying, several senior TDP leaders from Anantapur district have failed to get nominated posts much to their disappointment. In the second list, Jana Sena Party district president TC Varun and former Zilla Parishad chairperson Poola Nagaraju of TDP have only been given nominated posts. Many senior TDP, JSP and BJP leaders have been left out. One notable leader among the disappointed is said to be Sunil from Madakasira, who lost his TDP Assembly ticket at the last minute. On the other hand, several TDP leaders of the erstwhile undivided Kurnool district have expressed their disappointment after being overlooked for nominated posts. Notable leaders who expressed their dissatisfaction, include Kurnool district TDP president P Tikka Reddy, former MLAs KE Prabhakar, Kotla Sujathamma, Meenakshi Naidu, Bhuma Brahmananda Reddy, Yerasu Pratap Reddy, and senior leader Yeduru Vishnu Vardhan Reddy.

Agniveer Recruitment Rally Kicks Off in Kadapa

Anantapur: The six-day Agniveer Army recruitment rally began at the District Sports Authority Stadium in Kadapa on Sunday. The rally, organized by the Guntur Recruitment Office, will run from November 10 to November 15, with candidates from 13 districts, including Kurnool, Kadapa, Anantapur, Guntur, and Chittoor, participating. Colonel Puneeth, the recruitment director, led the process, while Kadapa Joint Collector Adithi Singh inaugurated the event by flagging off the first physical test. Singh praised the large turnout and encouraged candidates to focus on merit-based selection. Candidates are competing in categories such as Agniveer General Duty, Technical, Tradesman, and Office Assistant. The recruitment process is fully automated, ensuring fairness and transparency. Officials urged applicants to avoid touts and agents, emphasizing that success depends on hard work and preparation. Kadapa district administration has made arrangements, including lodging at Scout Hall in Sankarapuram for candidates. Kadapa Collector Ch. Sreedhar and other officials were present at the event.

SC/ST Case Filed Against Sajjala Bhargav Reddy

ANANTAPUR: In an ongoing controversy surrounding posts made on social media by YSRC activists against TD and JS leaders, the Pulivendula police have filed an SC/ST atrocity case against Sajjala Bhargav Reddy, the son of senior YSRC leader Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy. The case was registered following a complaint by Hari, a resident of Simhadripuram mandal in the Pulivendula Assembly segment of Kadapa district. Hari accused Bhargav Reddy, YSRC social media organiser Arjun Reddy, and social activist Varra Ravindra Reddy of abusing him on social media based on his caste. Hari had previously pointed out derogatory posts by YSRC supporters targeting TD and JSP leaders and their families over the past five years. Based on Haris complaint, the Pulivendula police registered an SC/ST atrocity case against the three individuals. The case has been filed under non-bailable sections, and investigations are ongoing.

TDP leaders from Anantapur disappointed after being snubbed for nominated posts

Having swept all 14 Assembly seats and two MP seats in the undivided district, there were several contenders from the TDP and JSP for the nominated posts

Dr. Sathish Reddy to assist JNTUA in AI

Anantapur :Dr. Sathish Reddy, Scientific Advisor to the Ministry of Defence and an alumnus of Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Anantapur (JNTUA), has pledged to support the university with research projects and guest faculty services in emerging fields like Artificial Intelligence (AI), image processing, and cyber technology. On Saturday, Dr. Reddy was felicitated by JNTUAs Incharge Vice Chancellor Prof. Sudarshan Rao, Registrar Dr. Krishnaiah, and OSD Devanna. Dr. Reddy assured that he would help provide the necessary skills and knowledge to JNTUA students through guest faculty and research collaborations. He expressed his commitment to advancing the university's research capabilities, particularly in the fields of AI and cyber technology, which are vital to the future of technology and industry.

SM post: Pulivendula police visit Kadapa MPs PA

Anantapur: Pulivendula police visited the residence of Raghava Reddy, the personal assistant to Kadapa MP YS Avinash Reddy, over his alleged ties to Varra Ravindra Reddy, a social media activist from Pulivendula. The police arrived at Raghava Reddy's house on Saturday but were unable to find him. They instructed his father to appear before them instead. The police action followed reports of Raghava Reddy's close association with Ravindra Reddy, who has been detained and reportedly subjected to third-degree interrogation at DTC Kadapa. The sudden police visit has caused concern among family members, who alleged harassment. YS Avinash Reddy condemned the police's actions, calling it errorizing and accusing them of damaging property in the house during the late-night visit. He further stated that Raghava Reddy had regular contact with Pulivendula police and had no history of criminal activity. YSRC spokesperson Rachamallu Sivaprasada Reddy demanded that Ravindra Reddy be produced before a court, citing concerns over his safety due to the treatment he received in police custody. He also expressed worry that TDP-friendly media and the polices involvement in Ravindra Reddys case suggested a conspiracy against the activist.

Roja slams govt on women safety

Anantapur: Former minister R.K. Roja lashed out at Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, TD general secretary Nara Lokesh, and Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan over the governments failure to protect women and its misuse of police powers. Speaking to the media on Saturday, Roja questioned whether the state was being governed democratically or under a dictatorship. Roja referred to the recent case of Peddireddy Sudharani, who was allegedly kidnapped and taken across several towns, including Chilakaluripet, Ongole, and Guntur, before being brought to court after several days. The YSRC leader blamed the police for their failure to take responsible action under the current leadership. She also criticized Pawan Kalyan for not intervening against TDP workers who were spreading malicious propaganda about his family. Roja further condemned the filing of false cases against women and innocent individuals, calling for strict action against those responsible for spreading fake news and abusive posts, including attacks on popular film stars like Prabhas and Allu Arjun. Roja warned those misusing their power in support of unlawful activities that they would face consequences. She urged the government to prioritize justice and accountability over personal vendettas.

ACB Raids Former Madanapalle RDOs House

Anantapur: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) raided the residence of former Madanapalle Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO) Murali at Prasanthi Nagar in Madanapalle town, as well as the residence of his son in Tirupati, on charges of disproportionate assets. The raids are part of an ongoing investigation prompted by complaints of misconduct involving the former RDO, who allegedly assisted YSRC leaders in acquiring government lands by tampering with records. This investigation follows a fire that broke out in the Madanapalle RDO office on July 21, during which important land records were destroyed. The CID is conducting an inquiry into the incident, with several arrests already made. The ACB's raids are part of a broader probe into Murali's alleged role in illegal land transactions. In addition to Muralis residence, ACB teams also conducted searches at the homes of other revenue officials in the Madanapalle area.

Implement PM Surya Ghar scheme effectively, says Anantapur Collector

District Collector asks officials and banks to take up implementation of the solar rooftop systems in the district in a mission mode

Produce T Lokesh on Nov 11, Andhra Pradesh HC directs police

VIJAYAWADA: The Andhra Pradesh High Court has posted further hearing on the batch of Habeas Corpus petitions to Monday, and directed the government to produce the person mentioned in the case before the court on November 11. The bench, comprising Justice Raghunandan Rao and Justice K Maheswara Rao, has directed the police to produce Tirupati Lokesh, on whose name the writ was filed, before the court on Monday. The court also directed to give the CCTV camera footage from October 4 to 8 of Vijayawada Cyber Crime and Itikalapalli police station of Anantapur district in a sealed cover to the concerned magistrates. When the court asked the police directly about the case of T Lokesh, they said, on receiving a complaint, the person was called on phone and he came to the police station on October 7 and on the next day he was asked to come with bail papers. He was supposed to come to the station on October 10 but did not turn up, His whereabouts are not known. His relatives had filed the Habeas Corpus petition. The Advocate General contended that a false propaganda has been taking place in an organised manner on social media and it attracts Section 111 of BNS and a notice need not be given under the provision. Police are adhering to the law. Of the five petitions that have come up for hearing, in three cases police have given notices and released them, he said. The counsel for T Lokesh said his client was brought to Vijayawada from Visakhapatnam on October 5, and cases were registered against all the 411 persons in the group, and of them 120 had reported to the police in Vijayawada. In Anantapur case, the accused Jinkala Ramanjaneyulu was produced before the magistrate, the court was told. The bench suggested to the Advocate General to create awareness among police on the guidelines to be followed. The government sought time to file a counter on the remaining cases to which the court agreed and adjourned the hearing to Monday.

YSRC social media activist Detained at TG border

Anantapur :A special team of Kadapa police detained YSRC social media activist Varra Ravindra Reddy at the Telangana border on Friday while he was allegedly fleeing from Kurnool district. Reddy, who had escaped from police custody days earlier, led to swift action by the government, resulting in the transfer of Kadapa SP Harshavardhan Raju to headquarters and appointing Annamaiah SP as acting Kadapa SP. In connection with Reddys escape, an inspector was suspended, and action is pending against two more inspectors and 11 constables who reportedly facilitated his escape by serving him notices instead of detaining him over pending cases. Sources indicated that Reddy was attempting to reach Hyderabad when he was tracked and detained by police teams. The activist, known for inflammatory social media posts targeting figures like CM Chandrababu Naidu, the Deputy CM, the Home Minister, and YS Vijayamma and Sharmila, has a record of 30 cases against him, including seven from Annamaiah district. The incident has drawn serious attention from Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu and DGP D. Thirumala Rao, who stressed the importance of apprehending Reddy.

Srisailam under tight security for CM's seaplane launch

ANANTAPUR : A security blanket was placed around Srisailam temple and surrounding areas as Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu prepared to launch a seaplane from Vijayawada to Patalaganga, near the Krishna River, on Saturday. In view of the Nallamala forestan area historically affected by extremism523 police personnel, including 10 special teams and 4 Greyhound squads, were deployed to ensure the Chief Ministers safety. After the formal seaplane launch, CM Naidu is scheduled to reach the Patalaganga boating point and proceed to the Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy and Goddess Bramarambika temples for darshan. Given the temple's proximity to previous Naxal-affected areas in the Nallamala forest, the police department has increased forces and commenced combing operations in the area. Nandyal SP Athirajsingh Rana inspected the site and reviewed the security arrangements, while Srisailam temple authorities have prepared facilities for the Chief Ministers visit following the sea plane launch.

Andhra Cricket Association to Launch 3 Cricket Academies

Women's academy to come up in Anantapur, men's academy in Vizianagaram and a senior men's academy at Moolapadu Stadium

11-member gang arrested for ganja peddling in Anantapur

We are taking action not just on the peddlers, but also on those consuming it, warns Additional SP

AP home minister assures latest equipment for police

Anantapur: Home Minister V. Anitha underlined that the state government is firm on strengthening the police department with the latest equipment, establishing cyber cells, and starting a forensic laboratory for scientifically investigating crimes and carrying out prosecutions. Accused in various crimes, including ganja smuggling, assault on women and children, and cyberattacks are posing various challenges. Cybercriminals are using technology to cheat their victims. Our police will be fully equipped to take stringent action against them, the minister stated. She asserted that police forces in the state are maintaining law and order and weeding out Naxals, factionists, and communal elements. She recalled that the previous government had failed to allot even Rs 9 crore as a grant for starting a Greyhounds centre in Amaravati with a total expenditure of Rs 200 crore. Addressing those gathered at the Passing Out Parade of 12 DSPs trained at the AP Police Academy in Anantapur on Tuesday, Anitha underlined that Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu is firm on controlling crime, strengthening law and order and ensuring the welfare of police at all levels. She appreciated that the majority of the graduating DSPs are women and engineering graduates. She expressed confidence that they will successfully deal with cybercrimes. She pointed out that each district has a cyber-cell to control online crimes and large-scale misuse of social media. Speaking at the event, DGP D. Thirumala Rao called on the trained DSPs to serve society by ensuring law and order at every step, including preventing crimes against children and women. AP Police Academy principal Venkatrami Reddy said the DSPs passing out will be on practical training at various police stations from November third week. The home minister presented meritorious awards to all-round best performers Jeevana and Pradeepthi.

Andhra Pradesh: Police wont buckle under political pressure, says DGP

VIJAYAWADA: Responding to Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyans remarks on law and order in the State, and Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha, Director General of Police (DGP) Ch Dwaraka Tirumala Rao asserted that the police wont buckle under political pressure. Pawan on Monday had raised concerns over the law and order situation in the State and said if he was the State Home Minister, things would be different. The remarks were seen as direct criticism of Anitha, who is holding the department currently. Emphasising the importance of law and order for the States development, he had asked the DGP, senior police officials, and district collectors not to ignore their responsibility. He advised them not to shield anyone based on caste or connections, affirming that he does not endorse such biases. Acknowledging that there were certain lapses under the previous YSRC regime as police could not perform their duties efficiently, DGP Rao maintained that the department is addressing the problem from the roots in order to ensure that similar issues dont recur in the future. The DGP and the Home Minister, along with other officials, attended the passing out parade of probationary DSPs at the Anantapur police training centre on Tuesday. On the occasion, they presented awards to probationary DSPs for their outstanding performance in firing, training modules, indoor and outdoor sports. Speaking to mediapersons, the DGP asserted that top priority was being given to safety of women, children and other vulnerable sections of the society. Recalling the incident of attack on TDP office in Mangalagiri under the YSRC regime, he opined that police failed to investigate the case properly due to various reasons. Errant officials will not be spared, asserts DGP He asserted that such incidents will not repeat and errant officials will not be spared. There were some incidents where police inefficiency was clearly visible and criticised by various sections of the society. All such incidents reported in the last five years will be reviewed as the department is accountable to the public. The police department has no pressure from political parties. We are working for the public as we abide by the Constitution, the DGP stressed. Asked about the ongoing investigation into the alleged misappropriation of funds by former CID chief N Sanjay, Rao clarified that the issue is being investigated by the Vigilance Department and that a report will be submitted to him and the General Administration Department (GAD) for further proceedings. Meanwhile, Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha said she has taken the Deputy Chief Ministers remarks on the law and order situation constructively. Speaking to reporters, she said, I took his (Pawan Kalyans) comments positively. His press meet was, in fact, encouraging. He provided a supportive foundation for my work and urged me to be even more assertive. Thats what he communicated. Anitha added that, as the Home Minister, she recognises her responsibilities and the demands of her role. The Home Minister explained that she had spoken to Kalyan about the matter, and he clarified that he was referring to the alleged registration of cases based on caste under the previous YSRC government.

DGP vows to rectify past lapses, uphold law and order in state

Anantapur: Director general of police (DGP) D. Thirumala Rao noted that there had been several lapses over the past five years, and the police department is now actively working to rectify them to uphold law and order in the state. Speaking to the media on Tuesday, the DGP stressed that the department prioritises ensuring human rights and the protection of children and women throughout the state. Addressing allegations against certain senior police officers from the previous government, Thirumala Rao clarified that the state government has ordered an inquiry into IG Sanjay regarding these accusations. The investigation report will be sent to the Home Department after review by the General Administration Department (GAD). He noted that the police teams at that time did not respond adequately and neglected their duties, even during the attack on a political party office. The incident had been dismissed as an exercise of freedom of speech, and not a single arrest was made. Action can be taken even 30 years after an incident. An IPS officer was penalised 20 years after an incident due to negligence, he pointed out. Responding to remarks made by Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, the DGP stated that he would not comment on the Deputy CMs statements specifically. He reaffirmed the department's commitment to 'Dusta Shikshana - Shista Rakshana' (punishing the wicked and protecting the righteous) and emphasised their allegiance to the Constitution. We never yield to political pressures, he affirmed, adding that 10 officers have been assigned posts while investigations continue on others, with action pending as necessary.

Andhra Pradesh: DSP, Army Major Daughters Make Parents Proud

Anantapur: It was a proud moment for the teacher-parents as their daughters achieved prestigious heights in the countrys uniform services. The couple was accompanied by their daughter Pratibha - who is working in the Indian Army as a Major in Kolkata while attending their elder daughter Pradeepthi's passing out parade as Deputy Superintend of Police (DSP) at the AP Police Academy centre in Anantapur. The parents Appa Rao and Sugunaveni have had joyful moments witnessing their younger daughter, an Army Major, congratulating her DSP sister. This middle-class family could achieve this goal after years of struggle and hard work. Appa Rao and Sugunaveni are government teachers and natives of Amudalavalasa. While Appa Rao is retired, Sugunaveni is still in service. The couple has two daughters Pradeepthi and Pratibha and both are engineering graduates. Though initially, mother Sugunaveni wanted her two daughters to be settled as software engineers, she had to accept the goals of her daughters. Pratibha, after completing her graduation in mechanical engineering in 2014, set a goal to join the Indian Army. She attempted SSC thrice and succeeded in her third attempt. She served two-and-a-half years in crucial sectors in Sikkim and Jammu and Kashmir and one-and-a-half years in South Sudan on a United Nations mission. Presently, she is working as a Major in Kolkata. I am proud of my sister Pradeepthi. She has achieved the goal after a series of struggles, Pratibha appreciated and recalled the routine discouragement from relatives and friends for middle-class young girls while choosing their careers, especially in security services. Appa Rao and Sugunaveni were happy as their daughters achieved a rare feat by joining the leadership positions in the nations uniform services.

A.P. Home Minister graces Passing Out Parade of probationary DSPs in Anantapur

The previous government failed to release funds for acquiring the tools to employ finger print identification for the police department, or construct A.P. Police Academy building, alleges V. Anitha

Proud Moment for Family as Both Daughters Serve the Nation in Uniform

Anantapur: It was a proud moment for the parents of Major Pratibha and newly appointed Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Pradeepthi, as both daughters have achieved prestigious positions in uniformed services. Major Pratibha, an Army officer currently posted in Kolkata, traveled to Anantapur to attend her elder sister Pradeepthis passing-out parade at the AP Police Academy. The family, especially their father Appa Rao and mother Sugunaveni, were overjoyed as Major Pratibha congratulated her sister on this significant accomplishment. Appa Rao, a retired teacher from Amadalavalasa, and his wife Sugunaveni, who is also a teacher, are the proud parents of Pradeepthi and Pratibha, both of whom are engineering graduates. Initially, Sugunaveni hoped her daughters would pursue careers as software engineers, but she eventually supported their goals to serve in uniform. After completing her degree in mechanical engineering in 2014, Pratibha set her sights on joining the Indian Army. She cleared the Short Service Commission on her third attempt. Her service includes postings in Jammu and Kashmir, Sikkim, and an assignment in South Sudan under a United Nations mission. She is currently serving as a Major in Kolkata. I am incredibly proud of my sister, Pradeepthi, for achieving her goal after years of dedication, said Pratibha. She also highlighted the challenges often faced by middle-class families when young women choose careers in security services, despite societal pressures. Appa Rao and Sugunaveni are delighted that both their daughters have established careers in service of the nation through the uniformed forces.

Two sisters, two uniforms: A familys pride

Anantapur : A proud moment for a family of teachers, as their two daughters reached the pinnacle of their careers in uniform services. Major Pratibha, serving in the Indian Army, recently travelled from Kolkata to attend her elder sister DSP Pradeepthis passing-out parade at the AP Police Academy in Anantapur. Appa Rao, a retired teacher, and his wife Sugunaveni, a serving teacher, hail from Amidalavalasa. Despite initially aspiring for their daughters to pursue careers in software engineering, they supported their ambitions to join the armed forces. Pratibha, a mechanical engineer, achieved her goal of joining the Indian Army after three attempts at the SSC exam. She has served in critical locations like Jammu and Kashmir, Sikkim, and South Sudan under a UN mission. I am incredibly proud of my sister Pradeepthis achievement, said Pratibha, acknowledging the challenges faced by middle-class girls who choose careers in security services. Appa Rao and Sugunaveni are overjoyed that both their daughters are serving the nation in uniform. Their story is an inspiration to many.

YSRC Government Permitted Uranium Survey: Ramanaidu

Kurnool : District In-Charge and Water Resources Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu has promised the people of Devanakonda mandal that the state government will not allow uranium mining in the district as long as there is no public consent. He said the previous government permitted a survey in this respect in 2022. There will be no harassment or unwarranted arrests in this connection. Presiding over the District Development Committee meeting at the Collectorate on Monday, the minister said the welfare of the people would be the governments top priority. The meeting discussed issues related to agriculture, irrigation and drinking water. Highlighting the developmental needs of Kurnool, Ramanaidu noted that the gateway to Rayalaseema remained underdeveloped, with 20 percent of its 8 lakh acres still un-irrigated. For Rayalaseema, he promised an allocation of Rs.2,800 crore for the Handri Neeva project next year, with plans to increase its water flow from 1,800 to 3,850 cusecs to benefit Kurnool, Anantapur, Sathya Sai, Hindupuram and Chittoor districts. The government, he said, is trying to attract industrial investment to the region and more employment opportunities. On housing, Ramanaidu asked officials to compile reports on housing development from 2014 to 2016 and process the pending payments for houses built in 20162019. Minister TG Bharath, MP Nagaraju and other legislators and officials attended the meeting.

Aiming High ... New Batch of DSPs Taking Charge Soon

Anantapur: Jeevana, 22, is a tribal girl from Kelagada village in Munchingput mandal of Alluri Seetharamaraju district who completed her B.Sc with CBZ at the government college in 2022. She would soon don the cap of Deputy Superintendent of Police. She was among those selected in the 2023 recruitment by the APPSC and underwent training in recent months. Her father, a government school teacher, helped her avail ITDAs coaching facility in Vizag for the competitive examinations. Tribals are generally unable to get good education because of poor infra facilities in the region, like lack of transport. Poor financial conditions make their plight worse. Very few tribal youths are able to take up better jobs. I will try and create awareness among the youths in tribal areas for better education, Jeevana stated. A total of 12 youths would attend Tuesdays passing out parade after their successful police officer training at the temporary AP Police Academy in Anantapur. Of these, seven are women and five men. Nine of them were engineering graduates from IIT and local engineering colleges in the state while a dental surgeon also would take up the DSP posts this time. A majority of them are from middle class family background. Some of them had joined the software industry initially and then quit such jobs with a zeal to be a public servant. They struggled financially during the preparations in Hyderabad and New Delhi. Deccan Chronicle spoke to the newly recruited DSPs. Ashraf, a native of Kadapa who did his B.Tech from Yogi Vemana University finally reached his goal of becoming a public servant. He finished B.Tech in 2013 and worked as a software engineer, later as assistant manager in IDBI bank. I found no satisfaction in those jobs. I was keen on helping solve the common mans problems. I targeted UPSC Mains four times and APPSC and got the DSP post this time, Ashraf said. He said he was mentally prepared to practise as an advocate through which too he hoped to be of help to the common people. Ashrafs father, a teacher, encouraged his son get into the state police service. Jayakrishna, a native of Siddantham village in West Godavari district, says his father is a small-time farmer owning 1 acre of land. He struggled hard to help his son study. Jayakrishna completed his B.Tech from IIT Roorkee in 2015. With the goal of civil service, he joined coaching in New Delhi. Without burdening his parents, he worked with mentorship at an institute while preparing for the UPSC. I used to get around Rs.22,000 per month to meet my expenses including library, room rents etc, he recalled and added that he got posting as assistant commandant in central forces and later succeeded in the APPSCs recruitment for DSP posts. Pradeepthi, a native of Korlakota of Amidalavalasa mandal, says the family encouraged education to its girls. Her father is a retired teacher. Her younger sister is a Major in the Army in Kolkata. Pradeepthi completed her graduation in engineering from Vizag in 2012. She worked as a software engineer for 2 years and attempted tests for other jobs. She first got an excise sub inspector post, followed by the DSP post this time. A Shivapriya, a native of Peddanapadu in Yerraguntala in Kadapa district, did her engineering graduation from Rajampet in 2016. She worked as software engineer for a year but resigned the job to prepare for the UPSC tests. Though my father was assisting in a business of my uncle and had less income, he never discouraged me and this helped me go ahead with strong determination, she notes. Shivapriya continued her efforts even after her marriage. She along with her husband who was also attempting public service, succeeded to get the DSP post in the recent recruitment. Udayavani is a native of Alugolu in Nelimerla mandal of Vijayanagar district. She is an engineering graduate since 2019 and targeted UPSC exams. She passed the test but lost in the interview in 2022. Her father is a farmer and her mother an Anganwadi worker. Encouragement from my parents helped me get the DSP post following the APPSC test, she said and added that she faced serious financial constraints during the preparations time in Hyderabad. Abhishek, a native of Palakollu, did his graduation in engineering in 2013, worked as software engineer for three years and got an inspector post in the Ministry of Home Affairs in Rajasthan. My father is an advocate. I have closely observed the woes of the common people and decided to be a part of civil service, he stated. K Manasa, a native of Tirupati, was a dental surgeon from NTR Health University. She worked as dental officer in the army for a year and a half at the Secunderabad contentment. His father is dean with the Agriculture University College in Tirupathi. She succeeded to get a posting in her first attempt without any coaching. Women empowerment is the need of the hour, she cooed. Rajasimha Reddy, Narasaraopet, is from an agriculture background. He completed his B.Tech from Vizag in 2017 but couldn't get a post in previous group services tests, including the UPSC. He recalled his parents' encouragement towards his preparation. They did not force him to do the software job. His younger brother assisted the family by working as a software engineer. Now he is preparing for civil service tests, he said. Bhavani, of Ganjuvaripalle in Kadiri area in Satya Sai district, is also a B.Tech graduate. She succeeded to get the junior assistant and deputy tahsildar posts in APPSC group-II. After continuing with her preparations, she got the DSP test passed in 2023. B Pavani from Nellore completed her engineering in IIT in 2016 and targeted UPSC with years-long coaching and won the state-level DSP post this time.

AP Cryptocurrency scam: 320 victim lose over 23 crore

Kurnool: The Dhone police are investigating a massive cryptocurrency scam allegedly orchestrated by Ramanjaneyulu, a resident of Peddavadugur in Anantapur district, which has reportedly defrauded around 320 people across Kurnool, Nandyala, Mahbubnagar, and Kadapa districts. The scheme, which promised investors Rs 10,000 monthly returns for every one-lakh-rupee investment, has led to a cumulative loss of approximately Rs 23 crores for victims, with some sources suggesting the total sum could reach around Rs 25 crores. The accused used popular apps like Binance and OKX to lend credibility to the scheme and targeted a wide array of individuals, including local businessmen, politicians, government employees, traders, and other officials. According to Dhone circle-inspector Imtiaz Basha, while the police have been receiving numerous complaints over the past one and a half months, no official case has yet been registered, with the operation currently under investigation. Victims described being lured by the promise of high returns, leading some, like Siva Reddy, who invested Rs 10 lakhs, and Krishna from Dhone, who invested `8 lakhs, to take on loans and debt. Ramanjaneyulu reportedly initiated the scheme in 2021 by introducing himself through an organic herbal company, which he leveraged to expand his network and persuade people to invest. This scam has impacted hundreds, with victims now gathering at the Dhone police station, seeking the return of their lost investments.

Youth Rapes 3-Year-Old Girl in Vadamalapeta, Kills Her

Anantapur: A 22-year-old man raped a three-year-old tribal girl, killed her and buried her body in Yanadi Colony of AM Puram village in Vadamalapeta mandal of Tirupati district on Friday. The incident came to light after the girls parents approached the police. Police said the youth Sushanth, a close relative of the girls family and residing in the same colony, lured the three-year-old with chocolates when her parents had gone to work. He took her to the bushes on the outskirts of the village, raped and killed her. He then buried her body and returned to the colony. When the parents of the girl found her missing, they approached the Vadamalapeta police station on Friday evening. The parents informed police that Sushanth had been playing with the girl when they left home for work. Police detained and grilled Sushanth, who confessed to raping and killing the girl. Police then exhumed her body and sent it to Puttur Government Hospital for post-mortem. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu reacted seriously and directed Tirupati SP Subbarayudu to take stringent action against the accused. The CM instructed the Tirupati collector to handover 10 lakh as ex-gratia to the bereaved family. Home minister V. Anita expressed shock over the incident. She said police acted immediately and arrested the accused within hours of the incident. Opposition YSRC, however, accused the TD-led coalition government of failing to maintain law and order. Former ministers R.K. Roja and Narayana Swamy and former MLA Bhuman Karunakar Reddy consoled the parents of the deceased at the Puttur hospital. Roja criticised the government saying no minister had time to console the family members even though the ugly incident has taken place in the Chief Ministers home district. Chandrababu Naidu and home minister Anita should take responsibility for the series of assaults on girls and women. They have undermined Disha police stations as well as the Disha App after coming to power, the former minister charged. She said offences against women are continuing even after Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyans assurances of providing safety to women.

Six workers fall Ill at Camphor Manufacturing Unit in Anantapur

Anantapur: Six workers fell sick, two of them seriously, during the cleaning of debris from a storage pump at a camphor manufacturing unit on the outskirts of Anantapur on Friday. The camphor manufacturing unit is located in Garladinne mandal, near NH 44. Sources reported that two workers assigned to clear the debris from a dump fell ill due to adverse gases released from the site. Alerted to the incident, four other workers rushed to the spot to assist the two who were trapped and also suffered serious illness. Authorities were alerted, and all the workers were transported to a private hospital in Anantapur. Suharai, Harinath Babu, Krishna, Lakshmi Narayana, Nagendra Prasad, and Obulesu were shifted to KIMS Hospital, with two of them reported to be in serious condition due to inhalation of noxious fumes from the storage dump.

Anantapur AR constable injured after gun misfires

Anantapur: An Armed Reserve constable suffered injuries after a misfiring incident involving a .303 rifle while cleaning at the Anantapur collectorate premises in the early hours of Friday. Subba Raju, a 1996 batch AR constable, was on guard duty at the collectorate when the misfire occurred. Sources indicate that while Subba Raju was cleaning the .303 rifle as part of his routine duties, the rifle misfired, causing a bullet to hit the right side of his chest and exit through the other side. Colleagues and staff at the collectorate immediately transported Subba Raju to the Government General Hospital in Anantapur. Thanks to timely medical intervention, the team of doctors at GGH provided necessary emergency care and reported that the constable is out of danger. He remains under observation as the bullet impacted his chest area. The AR wing of Anantapur district is conducting an inquiry into the incident to determine whether the misfire was due to the cleaning process or other factors. The .303 rifle is typically regarded as one of the most powerful weapons capable of targeting long distances.

Mandatory fitness tests to ensure safety

Even minor defects can result in a rejection of the FC, a notable shift from previous years when some vehicles managed to secure FCs despite significant issues. Dr. M. Virupaksha Reddy, who operates several ATS centers in Anantapur and Nandyal, emphasized that poorly maintained vehicles contribute to air pollution and increased road safety risks. Faulty brakes, exhaust systems, and steering issues significantly heighten the likelihood of accidents, endangering both passengers and other road users, he stated. Vehicle owners must prioritize regular maintenance and comply with mandatory fitness tests to ensure safety on the roads. According to Section 56 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, all transport vehicles must possess a valid fitness certificate from an authorized body or an ATS to remain registered. Non-transport vehicles also require fitness certification during registration renewal, following CMVR, 1989 guidelines. Commercial vehicles must undergo fitness tests every two years for the first eight years and annually thereafter. Private vehicles need certification for registration renewal after 15 years, with further renewals every five years. Older vehicles typically emit higher pollutants compared to newer models adhering to stricter emission standards. Emissions from older trucks (BS II/III) and cars are significantly greater than those from newer vehicles (BS VI).

Air quality deteriorates in parts of AP on Diwali day

Vijayawada : Air quality was found to be poor in Visakhapatnam, Rajamahendravaram, Kakinada, and other cities and towns in Andhra Pradesh on the day of the Diwali festival celebrated on Thursday. The AP Pollution Control Board monitored air quality and noise levels across the state on Thursday to assess the impact of fireworks on air quality and noise levels during the festival. On the Air Quality Index (AQI) scale, where major pollutants include PM10 and PM2.5, the following ranges apply: 0-50 indicates good air quality, 50-100 satisfactory, 100-200 moderate, 200-300 poor, 300-400 very poor, and up to 500 severe. Accordingly, for PM10 levels, Visakhapatnam recorded 238, Rajamahendravaram 225, Kakinada 217, Vizianagaram 182, Pydibheemavaram 171, Chittoor 152, Anantapur 134, Bobbili and Amaravati 119, Vijayawada 115, Kurnool 113, and Guntur and Tirupati 100. The intensity of pollutants in the air indicated that the air quality in these cities and towns ranged between moderate and poor, reflecting the volume of fireworks burnt by the public. In 2020, Pydibheemavaram recorded 177, Visakhapatnam and Guntur 118, Bobbili 116, Rajamahendravaram 114, Vizianagaram 110, and Srikakulam 104, with air quality in these areas being moderate on Diwali Day. Regarding average noise levels (dB Leq) in cities and towns, noise standards during the day (from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm) are set at 65 dB, while during the night (from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am), they are 55 dB. However, on Diwali Day, peak values were recorded from 6:00 pm to 12:00 am. In Vijayawada, areas like Satyanarayanapuram recorded 102 dB, District Industrial Centre 74 dB, All India Radio Station 65 dB, and IMA 77 dB. In Visakhapatnam, areas such as Andhra University recorded 80 dB, Siripuram 86 dB, Madhurawada 78 dB, and Zoo Park 74 dB. Other cities reported various levels: Srikakulam 88 dB, Vizianagaram 92 dB, Kakinada 78 dB, Rajamahendravaram 77 dB, Eluru 86 dB, Machilipatnam 74 dB, Guntur 61 dB, Ongole 88 dB, Nellore 78 dB, Tirumala 79 dB, Tirupati 88 dB, Kadapa 70 dB, Kurnool 81 dB, and Anantapur 88 dB. In 2023, the average noise levels reached a peak of 69 decibels in Kurnool and the lowest at 55 decibels in Machilipatnam on Diwali Day.

Lokesh asks Google Cloud to establish data centre in Vizag

VIJAYAWADA : Andhra Pradesh is getting transformed into a cloud infrastructure hub and the state is aiming to set up data centres in Visakhapatnam, Education and IT Minister Nara Lokesh has said. During his current US visit, Lokesh urged Google Cloud to establish its data centre in the port city. As part of his efforts to attract investments from the US, Lokesh visited the Google campus in San Francisco and held a meeting with its CEO, Thomas Kurian, its global networking vice-president Bikas Koley, the vice-president of its business applications Rao Surapuneni, and vice-president of Google Maps Chandu Thota. The minister urged them to consider setting up a data centre in Visakhapatnam under Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode. Lokesh told the Google's top bosses, The state government is implementing Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based e-governance and programmes like the smart city. Andhra Pradesh is the right place for investments, he said and urged the CEOs to consider providing services like AI tools and enterprise solutions to help digitalise government services. Lokesh also sought the cooperation of Google with the state government in real-time management, disaster response and urban planning besides in interlinking the smart cities with Google Maps, which are part of Geospatial services. He also wanted Google to hold AI-based training classes to the youth on digital education and skill development. The Google's top brass said that they will hold discussions with their colleagues and take decisions in these respect. Nara Lokesh, during a meeting in San Francisco with the Indian diaspora and US-India Business Council representatives said this was the right time to invest in the state. The government is following investor-friendly policies and the state has a long seacoast along a wide highway network besides having transport facilities by sea and by air, Lokesh said. He said that very soon the state will be transformed into a start-up and manufacturing hub. Lokesh explained, As part of decentralising development, Anantapur is being encouraged for setting up automobile units, we will have renewable energy units in Kurnool, IT, pharma and medical equipment manufacturing units in Visakhapatnam. Prakasam district is promoted as the biofuel manufacturing centre while aqua industry will spread out in both the Godavari districts, he said. Lokesh said that the Artificial Intelligence (AI) University will soon be established to produce experts with international standards. The founder of the India diaspora, M Rangaswamy, the executive members of the US-India Business Council, Kavitha Mariyappan, Siva Sivaram, Ramakanth Alapati and several others were present.

Six lose consciousness at camphor unit in Anantapur district

Head constable injured after gun misfires in Anantapur

Anantapur police recover record 10,000 stolen mobile phones

Anantapur: Anantapur police have achieved a remarkable milestone by recovering 10,000 mobile phones valued at Rs 18.85 crore from various locations across the country. On Tuesday, Anantapur SP Jagadish returned 1,309 mobile phones, worth Rs 3.45 crore, to their rightful owners. This recovery drive, the first of its kind in the state, has successfully traced stolen phones from several states, including regions in the north as well as throughout Andhra Pradesh and neighboring Karnataka.

AP to Start International Golf Course in Amaravati

Vijayawada: Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu held discussions with former Indian cricket team captain and Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) chairman Kapil Dev for development of sports in AP, including golf. Kapil Dev reached Vijayawada on Tuesday. He first met Andhra Cricket Association president and Vijayawada MP Kesineni Sivanath. Later Kapil Dev and the MP met Chandrababu Naidu and discussed in detail measures to develop sports in AP. During the discussions, the AP Chief Minister disclosed his governments intention to establish an international golf course in Amaravati and premier golf courses in Anantapur and Visakhapatnam. Chandrababu Naidu said, It was a pleasure to meet our legendary cricketer and chairman of PGTI Kapil Dev and his delegation today. We discussed expanding the sports landscape in Andhra Pradesh, with special emphasis on starting an international golf course club in Amaravati and premier golf course clubs in Anantapur and Vizag. This will foster a passion for golf among our youth and encourage the next generation of golfers. We look forward to collaborating with sports icons to make Andhra Pradesh a true hub for sporting excellence. Kapil Dev said the CM held a special discussion on golf. He said he is feeling blessed with Chandrababu Naidus support for development of sports in AP. He said he will dedicatedly work on sports promotion in the state by visiting AP frequently. MP Sivanath said the Chief Minister has asked Kapil Dev to be the ambassador of sports for AP and Kapil has agreed. He said there is a plan to develop golf in the state. For the purpose, a golf course will be set up not only in Amaravati but also in Anantapur, where the Kia factory is located. Many of the Kia employees go to Bangalore to play golf. He revealed that the golf course will first come up in Anantapur, followed by Vizag and Capital Amaravati. The MP said he wants to have a team from AP in the Golf Premier League. He further emphasised that they are going to start cricket academies, so that young cricketers of the state can play at national and international levels, apart from IPL. Sivanath underlined that three centres for sports excellence are going to be opened in the state. Cricket grounds will be developed in rural areas, like Araku and Kalyanadurgam.

Draft electoral roll for Anantapur district released

District Collector directs the EROs to make it available for people adding that final roll will be published on January 5

Anantapur police create record in mobile phone recovery

Over 1,300 mobiles worth 3.45 crore handed over to their owners at a mela organised by the District Police

Union Minister Bandi distributes 110 appointment letters at Rozgar Mela

Visakhapatnam: Union Minister of state for home affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar distributed appointment letters to 110 new central government employees at the Rozgar Mela held in Visakhapatnam on Tuesday. The event was a part of nationwide recruitment driver where Prime Minister Narendra Modi distributed 51,236 appointment letters across India through video conference The Union Minister congratulated the newly appointed job seekers and wished them success in their new roles. He emphasized the governments commitment to creating a self-reliant and developed India, highlighting the leadership of Prime Minister Modi in serving the nation across all fields. Speaking at the event, he highlighted that the Modi government has already provided employment to approximately 8 lakh people out of 10 lakh central government jobs since the Rozgar Mela initiative began in October 2022. He emphasized the governments commitment to timely recruitment without corruption allegations. We are conducting the recruitment and completing the examination process within the stipulated time frame, he said. He added that the government is working to immediately fill vacancies across sectors to prevent any operational impacts. The minister noted that the double engine regime in Andhra Pradesh presents opportunities for the states development at an accelerated pace. He urged everyone to set aside political differences and work towards fulfilling the aspirations of the people. He also stressed the importance of developing Andhra Pradesh as a tourism hub. Highlighting the governments support for Andhra Pradesh, the minister mentioned several key projects and institutions establish in the state, including the Tribal University in Vizianagaram, AIIMS in Mangalagiri, IIT in Tirupati, and IIPE in Vizag. He also noted the established of a central university in Anantapur and the sanctioning of 17 new medical colleges. The minister detailed significant investments in infrastructure, including funding for the Polavaram project, (13,500 crore), Amaravati development (15,000 crore) and airport expansions in Tirupati, Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada. Participants at the event watched Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating the Rozgar Mela via video conference, where he distributed appointment letters to new recruits in various government departments and organizations.

Lokesh for Tesla unit in Anantapur

Vijayawada : IT and electronics minister N. Lokesh went to the headquarters of electric vehicles (EV) giant Tesla, in Austin, US, on Monday, pitching Anantapur as a good location for the company's manufacturing. In talks with Tesla CFO Vaibhav Taneja, Lokesh said he wants to make Andhra Pradesh an EV manufacturing hub. He listed Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu target of generating 72 GW of renewable energy by 2029. Disclosing the details of his discussion with Taneja, Lokesh said Tesla is presently manufacturing electric vehicles, battery storage equipment for power storage from home to grid, solar panels and providing clean energy solutions. Lokesh said world-class companies like Tesla would help Andhra Pradesh with its green energy targets. Later, the minister called on chairman of real-estate major Perot Group and Hillwood Development, Ross Perot Junior, in Dallas and discussed with him on how APs coastal region had an ideal environment for developing industrial and logistics parks on the lines of their Alliance Texas project. Perot Group has developed Alliance Texas, a 27,000 acre master-planned community. Lokesh said they were looking forward to collaborate with Perot Group for developing smart city projects and the development of larger cities in AP. Lokesh said that they were planning to set up aviation university in Visakhapatnam and wished the experience and support of Perot Group.

Temperatures Up by 6C from Seasonal Average

Visakhapatnam : The maximum day-time temperature in southern and central Andhra Pradesh hovered around 35C to 37C in the last three days with little to no rain. The dry conditions are expected to continue and temperatures may also rise in the coming days.On Monday, the temperature was 6.4C higher than the maximum average for this time of the year in Kavali, recording 37.4C. Similarly Nellore recorded 35.7C, 5.1C more than the maximum average. Machilipatnam recorded 35.4C, up by 4.5C. Bapatla, Ongole, Nandigama and Anantapur recorded 4C above the seasonal average.There are no systems in the Bay of Bengal and the northeast monsoon remains inactive, said IMD, Amaravathi, director Stella S. She said the Sundays upper air cyclonic circulation over coastal Odisha now lay over south Odisha, adjoining north Andhra Pradesh coast and extended up to 5.8 km above mean sea level tilting south-westwards. She said the cyclonic circulation would cause isolated rain in ASR, Parvathipuram Manyam and Srikakulam districts for the next 24 hours. Light to moderate rainfall is likely at a few places accompanied with isolated thunderstorm and lightning over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal, Kerala and Mahe (Puducherry), Lakshadweep, coastal and south interior Karnataka from October 31 to November 1. Sources from ASR district said the temperature in the agency areas was also going up. The minimum temperature at Lambasingi was 16C last week and on Monday it rose to 20C. Scientists at Regional Agriculture Research Station, Chintapalli, said the present weather conditions might not change till November 15. During the last 24 hours ending at 8.30 am on Monday, Parvathipuram (Parvathipuram Manyam district) received the highest rainfall of 11.6 cm, followed by Jiyyammavalasa (Parvathipuram Manyam district) 6.6 cm, Komarada (Parvathipuram Manyam) 4.3 cm and Seethanagaram (Parvathipuram Manyam) 3.6 cm.

New Kia Carnival Priced at Rs 64 Lakh Booked for a Year

Pune: Car buyers in India do not mind the price if the vehicle provides innovative features and comfort for the road even as mass-market cars have not seen an uptick during this festive season. The all-new Kia Carnival Limousine, a luxury van or multipurpose vehicle (MPV) has garnered over 3,000 bookings, which was introduced in the market last month. The minimum booking amount was Rs 2 lakh. On the first day of opening the booking itself, Carnival had garnered 1,822 bookings without knowing the price. Considering its price at Rs 63.90 lakh at the Delhi showroom, Kia Carnival has clearly bucked the market trend of slowing sales. Moreover, with the assembly of just 300 units of the Carnival every month at its factory at Ananthapur in AP, the automaker is booked for nearly a year. At Rs 63.90 lakh, the Carnival does not have any direct rival and it is positioned between the popular Toyota Innova Hycross at Rs 19.77 lakh-Rs 30.98 lakh, and the Toyota Vellfire luxury van at Rs 1.22 crore-Rs 1.32 crore. We have received an overwhelming response from the buyers and we have got over 3,000 bookings and they are still pouring in, Hardeep Singh Brar, Senior VP, Sales and Marketing at Kia Motors India told Financial Chronicle. He said this is a testament to the strong legacy that Carnival has created and crafted a new segment for itself in the car market. The Carnival has set a benchmark of flawless integration of luxury and technology, Brar said, adding that the brand was working on supplies to reduce the waiting period. The Carnival is assembled at Kia Indias plant at Anantapur in Andhra Pradesh from the imported semi-knocked down (SKD) kits from South Korea. The previous version of Carnival had sold more than 14,500 units in the country.

Surge in Mentally Ill and Destitute Women on Andhra Streets

In Rayadurg town in Anantapur district, a young woman Renuka is found wandering the streets without clothing. She suffers sexual abuse from teenagers and beggars

Six killed as car hits lorry in Anantapur district of A.P.

A tyre burst reportedly led to the car crash

Anantapur: Six persons die in car-lorry collision

The six deceased were travelling in the car. On information from the locals, police rushed to the place and shifted the bodies to hospital for post-mortem

Anantapur: Six persons killed in car accident

Anantapur: Six persons died in a road accident near Nayanapalli cross roads in Singanamala mandal of Anantapur district on Saturday. The mishap occurred when a car lost control due to tyre burst and collided with the lorry. The tragic incident occurred while they were returning from participating in the Nagar Keerthana event in Tadipatri. All the deceased have been identified as devotees from Anantapur.

Dharmavaram hosts workshop on drugs, substance abuse

Anantapur: Nehru Yuva Kendra, Anantapur, in collaboration with Pragathi Padham Youth Association, organised a one-day workshop on drug prevention and substance abuse at the Sri Sai Krupa College in Dharmavaram of Satya Sai district on Friday. Bisathi Bharath, National Youth Awardee and MyGov Ambassador, Dr. Garugu Balaji, Consultant Psychiatrist, Kuruba Jaya Maruthi, a President of India Awardee, and college principal Purushottham Reddy were among those who participated in the workshop. Speaking on the occasion, Bisathi Bharath said drug abuse is one of the most serious health issues faced by the world today. It not only destroys the person, but the entire family. It spawns antisocial behaviour such as stealing, crime and violence. Dr. Balaji said the government has adopted a multi-pronged strategy to deal with smuggling of drugs, including establishment of enforcement agencies like Narcotics Control Bureau. Parliament enacted the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act in 1985, providing for long-term prison sentences and heavy fines for offenders. On the day, all those present, including youth and officials, collectively took a pledge to make India drug free by 2047

Satya Sai districts Ramapuram firing case solved, 10 arrested

ANANTAPUR : Dharmavaram police have solved the case of firing last Sunday at Ramapuram in Bathalapalli mandal of Satya Sai district. Providing details, Satya Sai district SP V. Rathna told media at Dharmavaram on Friday that a four-member gang of Shikaripalem in Veeraballi mandal in Ananmayya district had been cheating people across AP, Telangana and Karnataka promising pure gold jewellery at much lower rates but actually delivering gilt jewellery. The Shikaripalem gang members Pomari Bangari, Rana Hareesha, Rana Noor and Pomari Vilas contacted Naresh of Manasanpalli in Jangaon district of Telangana offering pure gold jewellery at cheap rates. However, Naresh had already been aware of the Shikaripalem gang. He informed Puli Aravind Kumar, an ethical cybercrime hacker. Aravind Kumar then planned to record a video of the entire episode of duplicate gold sales to upload on his YouTube channel. As part of their plan, Aravind and Naresh, along with close aides, procured two dummy pistols from Koti in Hyderabad along with cartridges. They then arrived at Ramapuram on the Anantapur-Kadiri national highway and met the Shikaripalem gang. While negotiations had been on, the Shikaripalem gang noticed the video recording team and picked up a quarrel. Following this, Aravind Kumar and his team fired two rounds in the air with the dummy pistols. Witnessing this, the Shikaripalem gang fled on motorcycles while the Aravind Kumar team chased them in their cars. When locals intervened Aravind Kumar told them they are from the Telangana police trying to catch the fake gold gang. Locals, however, contacted Dharmavaram police who came to know about the entire operation. SP Rathna said four police teams led by Dharmavaram DSP Sreenivasulu have arrested eight persons from Telangana, including Aravind Kumar and Naresh. Two members of the Shikaripalem gang Pomari Bangari and Rana Hareesha have also been taken into custody, while Rana Noor and Pomari Vilas are absconding.

24-hour police surveillance drive conducted in Anantapur

SP P. Jagadeesh outlines measures including 113 awareness programmesagainst drug abuse, an enforcement campaign under the Motor Vehicle Act resulting in registration of 456 cases of violations

Swift reaction ensured no loss of life during flash floods, says Anantapur Collector

High Alert Issued in Anantapur as Floods Threaten Irrigation Tanks

Anantapur : A high alert has been issued in the Hagari River and Chitravathi River beds following persistent heavy floods from upstream areas of Karnataka towards Satya Sai and Anantapur districts. With forecasts predicting gusty winds and heavy rains for another two days, the district administration has been alerted to the potential damage to irrigation tanks, which may face breaches. On Tuesday, after the Kanaganipalli tank breached, water flowed into the Pandameru Channel, causing extensive damage and submerging many nearby colonies in Anantapur. Rescue teams have been providing shelter and food to flood victims at designated centres on Wednesday. Collector Dr Vinod Kumar, along with Rapthadu MLA Paritala Sunitha and others, distributed essential supplies to families in the flood-hit areas of Auto Nagar, Jagananna Colony, Kalakarula Colony, and Upparapalli. The Collector reported that 110 families were rescued by revenue, police, and fire crews within hours of the water inundating the colonies, with 375 individuals sheltered at the centres. While the Pandameru Channel caused significant damage to residents in the surrounding colonies, officials expressed concern about the condition of irrigation tanks due to continuous inflows. Anantapur district alone has 310 tanks, many of which are over 50% full and currently receiving water from upstream channels and medium irrigation projects. The Hagari River in the Rayadurg Assembly segment is flowing at a dangerous level due to heavy floods in nearby Karnataka. The BT project has already been filled with water from the Hagari. Similarly, the Chitravathi River is flowing heavily in Puttaparthi, Chilamathur, and Gorantla areas in Satya Sai district, following overflow from the Paragodu project near Bagepalli in Karnataka. The Chitravathi River is overflowing onto the culverts, and an irrigation tank has breached in the Chilamathur mandal. Breaches have also occurred in the Handri Neeva Sujala Shravanthi projects Madakasira branch canal, prompting officials to submit a report seeking 2.50 crore for the restoration of bunds.

Kadapa TD Chief Attacked amid Real Estate Disputes

Anantapur : Disputes over real estate dealings have been identified as the reason behind the attack on Shivakonda Reddy, the Kadapa TD town president, who was assaulted by five individuals in Kadapa town on October 19. Kadapa police have arrested five suspects: Balisetty Ravi Teja, B Deepak, Shaik Mohammed Inthiaz, Sheikh Sameer, and a minor. CI Tejomurthy reported that both Shivakonda Reddy and Ravi Teja, who are affiliated with TD and involved in real estate, had recently clashed after Reddy accused Ravi Teja of extorting 30 lakh from a realtor during a settlement. Feeling aggrieved by the accusation, Ravi Teja allegedly conspired with his close associates to attack Shivakonda Reddy on October 19.

Chilamathur Police Arrest Suspect in Gang Rape Case

Anantapur : Chilamathur police have arrested C. Sreenivasulu, also known as Sreenath, from Kallur village in the Lepakshi mandal of Satya Sai district in connection with a gang rape incident that occurred during the ongoing construction of a paper mill in Chilamathur mandal a few days ago. Following the police's swift action in apprehending all accused, Sreenivasulu fled the scene and reportedly sought refuge in Karnataka. Police teams conducted searches across various locations, including Karnataka. On Wednesday, Sreenivasulu was captured near an agricultural field in Pulakunta village in the Hindupur mandal.

DRYSRHU developing organically grown custard apple seeds sourced from tribal areas

Visakhapatnam : Custard apples are believed to have originated in the Andes mountains of South America. These are cultivated in tropical regions with high altitudes. Andhra Pradesh has gained a significant space in its cultivation. Known for their rich fibre content and being a good source of vitamins and minerals, custard apples are recognised for their potential to bolster immunity, reduce inflammation and contribute to overall eye and heart health. In Andhra Pradesh, Balanagar custard apples and NMK gold custard apples are cultivated. The NMK gold custard apple seeds originate from Maharashtra, while the Balanagar seeds are from the horticultural research station in Anantapur. The Central Institute for Arid Horticulture Research Institute in Bikaner is developing organically grown custard apple seeds sourced from tribal areas. The Dr YSR Horticultural University has developed organically grown custard apple seeds in tribal areas. K Subramanyam, principal scientist and head of the horticultural research station in Mahanandi, told Deccan Chronicle, There are issues with NMK gold custard apples. Farmers in Maharashtra are hesitant to cultivate this crop. Consumers are comparing NMK gold custard apples with the Balanagar variety and are unwilling to purchase the former. In response to this challenge, the research station is gathering organic custard apple seeds grown in the agency region and conducting experiments on them. The Horticultural University has been assessing and analysing various custard apple genotypes. Such research is essential for identifying high-yielding, superior-quality varieties suitable for cultivation in AP and other pertinent regions. A comprehensive study conducted at the horticulture research station in Anantapur scrutinised many custard apple genotypes from 2001 to 2008. The findings revealed that a hybrid Blanagar custard apple demonstrated the highest cumulative yield over the years. Furthermore, an additional study focused on the biochemical characterisation of custard apple selections, revealed substantial variability among genotypes concerning traits such as total soluble solids, pH and total sugars. These findings provide valuable insights into the potential for improved cultivation and yield. The cultivation of custard apples has emerged as a thriving industry in the agency. The prevalence of custard apple baskets, particularly in Paderu and Anantgiri mandals, signifies a burgeoning market. The agency's approximately 250 acres of land are dedicated to custard apple cultivation. The fruit's popularity among tribal farmers, who play a pivotal role in its cultivation, can be attributed to its ease of cultivation and the significant financial benefits. These farmers in villages such as Vantlamamidi, Salugu, Devapuram, Ainada, Kasipatnam, Kothur, Damuku, Valasi, Pinakota and Pedakota are the backbone of the industry, getting financial benefits by selling the stuff locally and to traders from the plain areas. Custard apples from the agency are distributed to Anakapalle, Visakhapatnam, Tuni, Kakinada and Vijayawada and are sent to West Bengal. The price of one kilo of custard apples ranges from `80 to `150, depending on their size and quality.

CM Naidu extends support to family of petrol attack victim

Anantapur : The state government has extended support to the family of an intermediate student who tragically died following a petrol attack in Badvel, Kadapa district, three days ago. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu announced financial assistance of Rs 10 lakh to the victim's family. On Wednesday, the Chief Minister spoke with the victims family members over the phone to offer his condolences. On behalf of the CM, Kadapa in-charge collector Aditi Singh and TD leader Srinivas Reddy handed over the cheque to the parents of the deceased at their residence in Badvel. Naidu also spoke with the mother of the victim. He assured her of the government's support for the family . He assured her that the accused had been arrested and that stringent punishment would be enforced. He stated that the trial would be conducted in a fast-track court. Additionally, the government will take responsibility for the education of the victim's brother, he said. The Chief Minister instructed officials to arrange employment for the victim's mother.

Akkineni Nagarjuna stuck in traffic jam in flooded area

Anantapur: Tollywood hero Akkineni Nagarjuna was stuck in traffic as a road was inundated due to overflowing floodwater while he was en route to Anantapur from Puttaparti airport on Tuesday. Nagarjuna was scheduled to attend the inauguration of a jewellery showroom here. He had to travel an additional 30km to reach Anantapur in view of the heavy flooding of the main roads in both the Anantapur and Satya Sai districts since the early hours on Tuesday. Nagarjuna arrived in Puttaparthi by a special aircraft and, as per schedule, he was to travel from Kothacheruvu via Amidalakunta to Anantapur. However, the police alerted him about the risk of a journey by road as the water was overflowing on the main road. His vehicle was diverted towards KIA Industry in Guttur in Penukonda mandal, to enable him reach the NH 44 road, from where he proceeded to and reached Anantapur. Meanwhile, the NH 44 road was also blocked for traffic for a few minutes due to the overflowing of water on the NH road in Guttur. In the morning, many parts of the NH Road witnessed traffic interruption following the water-logging of the highway between Bangalore and Hyderabad, mainly in Guttur. Nagarjuna told the gathering at the event that he was delayed for the event because of the flooding and traffic problems between Puttaparthi to Anantapur. Nagarjuna received a warm welcome at Puttaparthi airport, where Satya Sai district ASP Sreenivasulu presented him with a memento. The ASP was the winner of Nagarjunas show Meelo Koteeswarudu three years ago. Huge crowds of his fans gathered at Surya Nagar Road to be with the actor while he inaugurated the jewellery showroom.

Marooned family rescued from Anantapur TV tower area

Anantapur: Anantapur One Town police, along with fire crew, rescued five members of a family whose house got marooned in the flooded TV tower area in Anantapur following heavy rains. Rescue personnel reached to the rooftop of the house using ladders of fire tenders and brought down members of the family. The TV tower and nearby colonies got inundated due to flash floods after Panadameru channel overflowed on Tuesday morning. People abandoned their houses and took shelter in a nearby temple on a higher ground. However, a five-member family chose to climb to their rooftop for safety. On receiving information, Anantapur SP Jagadish directed One Town police and fire brigade to rescue the family. A shepherd Boya Lavanya complained that she lost more than 70 of her sheep after water flooded the shed they had been herded at Bandameedipalle in Rapthadu mandal. Lavanya is a widow with two children who lost her husband a year ago. Reports of crops being lost have been reported from both Sathya Sai and Anantapur districts.

Heavy Rains Block Hyderabad-Bangalore National Highway

Many low-lying areas in Anantapur and Satya Sai districts inundated

Heavy rains in Andhra Pradesh: residents struggle as flood water enters homes, huts submerged in Anantapur district

Anantapur receives 80.2 cm rainfall on Monday; around 100 huts erected by the underprivileged people on the outskirts of the city, are completely inundated, leaving the residents homeless

Heavy rainfall submerges Anantapur

Floods halt traffic on Hyderabad-Bangalore highway

Heavy rains lash A.P.s Anantapur

The rains which started around 11 pm on Monday continued till Tuesday (October 22, 2024)

Life imprisonment for teacher who killed woman teacher

Anantapur: A male teacher was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Anantapur District Sessions Court here on Monday in connection with murder of a woman school teacher following an extramarital affair in 2008. As per the case, Rudresh of Kadiridevarapalle in Kambadur mandal had completed MA (English) while his wife Pravathi was a graduate in education. Both were running tuition classes in Kalyandurg town. Rudresh received a wrong call from Vijayalakshmi, who was pursuing her TTC. Her husband was working with a private finance company in Anantapur. The wrong call got Rudhersh and Vijayalakshmi even though she had a one and a half year-old son. While the two developed an extramarital affair, Rudreshs wife noticed whatsapp messages and photos having been shared by the two even during late night hours. This led to a quarrel at Rudreshs home. and the couple were quarreling over the issue. Vijalakshmi pressed Rudresh to divorce his wife and promised that she would also leave her husband and start a new life with Rudresh. Rudresh who was caught between the two women. When Vijayalakshmi invited him to Anantapur to spend time with her on Sept 5, 2018, Teachers Day, Rudresh agreed. Both met in Anantapur and went by scooter to a deserted place in Udipirikonda-Shivarampet. There, Rudresh murdered Vijayalakshmi by tying her chunny to her throat and suffocating her. Later, he hit her with a hard stone on her head and fled the spot after taking away gold jewellery from her body. Notably, Rudresh reached Kalyandurg and pledged the stolen gold with a private company and purchased an LED TV. He also ordered a gold chain from a gold smith with the additional amount. Meanwhile, Vijayalaksmis wife lodged a complaint with Anantapur two-town police, saying that his wife did not return home for Teachers Day celebrations at a private school. The two-town police registered a missing case and alerted all police stations. The body of Vijayalakshmi was found at a deserted place near the Udirpiroikonda area two days after the incident. The Kudair police identified the role of Rudresh in the murder after verifying the CC camera footage from Anantapur to Udipirikonda. About 15 witness statements were recorded. On Monday, district sessions judge G Srinivas pronounced life imprisonment to Rudresh and a `25,000 penalty after charges were proven against the accused. Anantapur SP Jagadish appreciated the team of policemen over efforts to get justice for the victim's family.

Anantapur district sessions judge compares police to Lord Narasimha

Anantapur: Anantapur District Sessions Judge G. Srinivas likened the police to Lord Narasimha, who rushed to save Prahlada, praising their prompt response during crises. We cannot envision a society without police services, as they are essential for maintaining law and order, VIP protection, crime control, and traffic management, he observed. He advised the collector to propose doubling the compensation for police officers who sacrifice their lives in service to the public. Anantapur Range DIG Dr. Shimoshi and SP P. Jagadish also highlighted the sacrifices made by police officials in maintaining national law and order. They, along with the District Sessions Judge and Anantapur Collector Dr. Vinod Kumar, offered floral tributes at a memorial at the District Police Office on Monday, commemorating Police Commemoration Day. DIG Dr. Shimoshi noted that police at all levels dedicate themselves to internal security, coordinating with the judiciary and other departments to control crime and punish offenders. The department also supports the families of those who have sacrificed their lives while on duty, she said. Anantapur SP Jagadish emphasized that police services are vital for maintaining law and order during public meetings, elections, and examinations. A society at peace can only thrive with effective police presence, he stated. In Puttaparthi, Satya Sai District SP V. Rathna paid tribute at a memorial, while Puttaparthi MLA Sindhura Reddy expressed her commitment to supporting police efforts. In Kadapa, SP Harshavardhan Raju also offered tributes at a memorial in the District Police Office.

AP Bars Sell at Rock Bottom Rates to Beat Competition

Vijayawada/Kakinada/Anantapur : Bars in the state are selling liquor at dirt cheap rates having to stave off competition from newly-opened liquor retail outlets involving private players under the new excise policy lasting for the next two years. Currently bars are selling liquor at rates as low as Rs 20 to Rs 50 per quarter. There are nearly 840 bars in the state which got a licence from September 1, 2022 for a period of three years. As the state government is permitted to sell liquor in 3,396 retail outlets from October 16 onwards, a majority of the outlets have been set up, except for a few, without an area to host persons in compliance with norms. The state government has ensured that sale of 180-ml liquor bottles will be at Rs 99. This will involve all popular brands as assured by Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu. The excise authorities are making all efforts to get popular brands like Mcdowell's and Blenders Pride among others. Guzzlers now seem more interested in just visiting liquor shops than going to bars. Bars sell liquor at relatively higher prices than the maximum retail price (MRP) to meet expenses like establishment cost and staff wages. However, to retain regular customers and to attract the new ones, bar owners have started to reduce the price of liquor so that they do not face losses. With no permission for permit rooms at liquor shops, guzzlers have to purchase liquor at the shop and have to consume it elsewhere and the bars will be of immense help to those who cannot afford to consume liquor at home. A liquor trader said, In order to withstand the competition from the newly opened liquor outlets, bars have started to reduce the price by `30 to `50 per quarter and it is aimed only to retain the existing customers and to attract the new customers. Liquor traders said that unauthorised liquor retail outlets, popularly known as belt shops, are inevitable in the liquor trade. Sources said in Katrenikona mandal of Dr Br Ambedkar Konaseem district a liquor shop owner intends to set up belt shops in four villages while in Pedapudi mandal of Kakinada district a shop owner is getting ready to open five belt shops. However, the local villagers reportedly resolved to demand Rs 5 lakh from the person who intended to open a belt shop and this money was meant to develop the village. In Katrikona mandal, a liquor shop was opened near the mandal parishad development office and a permit room was also reportedly attached to it and this resulted in the villagers staging a stir. In Anantapur, bars have started to reduce the liquor price. For instance, Kingfisher strong beer was sold at around Rs 300 against the MRP of Rs 200. Now, it is being sold at Rs 230. Traders of liquor retail outlets are reportedly asking the state government to give permission for permit rooms at the shops.

Police Commemoration Day observed in Kurnool, Nandyal and Anantapur

Police Commemoration Day observed in Kurnool, Nandyal and Anantapur

Telangana Police Fire in the Air to Nab Bihar-Based Robbers in Bathalapalli

Locals caught one of the robbers red handed (Representational Image: Pixabay) Locals caught one of the robbers red handed (Representational Image: Pixabay) Anantapur: An out-of-the-blue gunfire at Ramapuram, Battapalli mandal in Satya Sai district, left the villagers terror-stricken on Sunday. However, the local were relieved on coming to know later that it was not any faction feud fallout but fire opened by Telangana police trying to nab a notorious Bihar-based robbers gang that has been on the run. A TS police team chasing the gang for long, swung into action after being tipped off that the robbers had taken shelter at Ramapuram. Consequently, the Telangana police arrived in Bathalapalli on Saturday night and camped near the Ramapuram bus stand. On Sunday, the gang members attempted to flee on motorcycles. As the Telangana police were lying in wait, they immediately tried to apprehend the gang. Jolted by the police attack, the gang evaded arrest forcing the police to open three rounds in the air. After alerting the Dharmavaram DSP, the police team are trying to find out who had given refuge to the Bihar gang in Ramapuram.

Rare thunderstorm strikes Anantapur, causes panic

Anantapur: Anantapur city, which normally receives moderate rainfall even during the peak rainy season, got struck by a thunderstorm accompanied by lightning for more than two hours on Friday night. The cloudburst caused panic in many parts of the city, with 62 mm of rainfall in just two hours. Power supply became a major casualty and normalcy could be restored around midnight. Commuters travelling on Vidyuth Nagar-Aravinda Nagar road had a miraculous escape when lightning struck an electric pole. Pandurangachar, a resident of Housing Board, underlined that he had not witnessed lightning in Anantapur city during the past five decades. B.K. Samudram mandal recorded 51 mm rainfall, followed by Garladinne 46 mm. However, Rapthadu mandal received only 8 mm of rain. Official sources said had Rapthadu region received heavier rainfall, major parts of Anantapur city would have gone under water. Anantapur deputy mayor K. Vijayabhaskar Reddy said he had witnessed lightning in the headquarters of Anantapur for the first time.

Married man sets inter girl ablaze for refusing his love

Anantapur: A married man whose wife is pregnant set ablaze an intermediate student in Badvel town of Kadapa district on Saturday after she refused his love. The girl is battling for life at the RIMS Hospital in Kadapa. Sources said Vignesh of Ramanjineya Nagar had started harassing the girl from the time she had been in her eighth class. A resident of the same locality, she is currently doing her first year intermediate at a private junior college in Badvel town. Vignesh had recently married and his wife is pregnant. But he continued to harass the girl saying he loved her. On Saturday, he called her on phone, asking her to come to the outskirts of Badvel. When she refused, he threatened to commit suicide. Following this, the girl took an autorickshaw and went to meet Vignesh near the Polytechnic College. He too got into the auto and they got down near the Century Plywood industry compound. Vignesh took the girl to an isolated area near PP Kunta check post, doused her with petrol, set her on fire and fled from the spot when she started shouting for help. Listening to the girls cries, a few workers of Century Plywood rushed to the spot. They put off the flames and immediately alerted the police. Police shifted her to Badvel Government Hospital, where doctors gave her first aid for her 80 per cent burns and referred her to RIMS Hospital in Kadapa. Kadapa SP Harshavardhan Raju said four teams have been formed to nab the accused. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has reacted seriously over the incident. He ordered Kadapa district administration to provide the girl full medical care and arrest the accused.

Trader Murdered in Kurubala Kota

Anantapur : A trader, Khadar Bhasha, 27, of Kurubala Kota in Annamayya district, was hacked to death reportedly by his rivals on Saturday. Khadar Bhasha had been conducting business in Kurubala Kota for the past few years. He was waylaid and attacked by a group of miscreants, who slit his throat. Soon after the attack, the accused fled the scene. Police arrived and registered a case based on a complaint filed by the family members, and an investigation is underway to uncover the reasons behind the man's murder.