Cancer is not life-threatening, if diagnosed early, says Anantapur SP
Medical and paramedical staff from Basavatarakam Indo-American Cancer Hospital and Research Institute, Hyderabad, organise a medical camp for police personnel and their families
Handri-Neeva project water release by July 10
ANANTAPUR : Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has announced that water through the Handri-Neeva Sujala Sravanthi (HNSS) project will be released by July 10, and `3,873 crore is being spent for 554 km-long canal widening, and lining works under Phase-1 and 2. He inspected the HNSS works at the ground-level at Chayapuram of Uravakonda in Anantapur district on Friday. Later taking part in the Praja Vedika, Naidu regretted that the project works came to a standstill due to the negligent attitude adopted by the previous government, and said the works are moving at a fast pace after the TDP-led NDA came to power. He felt that once the Polavaram-Banakacherla is complete, the entire Rayalaseema region will completely come out of the drought and every acre in the State will get irrigation water. Former Chief Minister NT Rama Rao who saw the opportunity to utilise the surplus water of the State, changed the fate of Rayalaseema by getting the projects like Handri - Neeva, Galeru - Nagari and Telugu Ganga, Naidu said. After I became the Chief Minister, I have done everything possible for the region. Whenever I visit this district I hear some sort of a whistle sound, and people gather in large numbers to say Zindabad, he said. Making it clear that he has decided to completely change the topography of Anantapur, the Chief Minister said compensation was paid to farmers for crop loss when the local leaders brought the matter to his notice. Recalling how he bailed out the region from deep water crisis, Naidu said he has already promised to make Rayalaseema the land of pearls while the people called it as a land of stones, and thus the people from the region gave a record verdict to the NDA. Maintaining that anything is possible only if there is water facility, the Chief Minister said he issued the GO within one hour of making a promise that the Handri-Neeva project canal will be widened. At the same time, I have already completed 37% of the project works, he said and highlighted how he was successful in getting Kia Motors to Anantapur. Pointing out that Rs 70,000 crore was spent for irrigation between 2014 and 2019, and of which Rs 12,441 crore for Rayalaseema alone, including Rs 4,200 crore for Handri-Neeva, the Chief Minister said arrangements are on to get 40 TMC feet of water, and the works will be completed this season itself. Gollapalli-Madakasira branch canal works too have been completed. As many as 512 agencies are working for Handri-Neeva project, he highlighted. Once the phase-1 of this project is completed, a total of 1,98,000 acres, including 77,094 acres in Kurnool, 2,906 acres in Nandyal, and 1,18,000 acres in Anantapur will get irrigation water. Under phase-2, a total of 4,04,500 acres will get irrigation facility, which will totally improve the financial condition of farmers of the drought-prone region, he said. Announcing the sanction of a textile park for Uravakonda, he said funds are being sanctioned for a bridge at Gottipadu and the Kottalapalli lift irrigation scheme. Prior to addressing the meeting, the Chief Minister observed a two-minute silence to pay homage to the soul of Army Jawan Murali Naik, who lost his life during Operation Sindoor.
Naidu hails decisive Modi in fight against terrorism
ANANTAPUR : Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Friday reaffirmed that terrorism has no place in a democratic society. Addressing a meeting after inspecting the works of Handri-Neeva Srujala Sravanthi project at Chayapuram village in Uravakonda mandal of Anantapur district here, Naidu condemned the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, where innocent tourists were brutally killed, and underscored PM Narendra Modis determined response through Operation Sindoor. Naidu recalled his remarks during the relaunch of the Amaravati capital city works recently where he had expressed confidence in Modis commitment to national security. Even then, I had said that Prime Minister Modi would not only speak of protecting the nation but act decisively, which he has proven with Operation Sindoor, the Chief Minister said. India stands united: Naidu He emphasised national unity in the fight against terrorism: India stands united. In Pahalgam, terrorists brutally killed men in front of women and children. Under the NDA government, those responsible were swiftly brought to justice, he said. Expressing sorrow over the death of Army Jawan Murali Naik from Sri Sathya Sai district during the cross-border shelling, Naidu assured full support to his family.
Brave soldier from Andhra Pradesh martyred in Indo-Pak clash
ANANTAPUR: A pall of grief descended over Pudagundlapalli Thanda in Gorantla mandal as news broke that Mood Murali Naik, a brave soldier of the Indian Army, was martyred in the ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan. Murali Naik, aged around 23, had joined the army in December 2022 and served under Army No: A3451489H, in the AV (OPR) trade. Murali Naik hailed from a humble backgroundhis parents, M. Jyothibai and M. Sreeram Naik, are daily wage earners in the remote tribal hamlet. His sacrifice has brought both immense pride and profound sorrow to the village. On receiving the tragic news, Minister Savitha personally visited the bereaved family to offer condolences. On behalf of the state government, she handed over immediate financial assistance of Rs. 5 lakhs to support the family. In a heartwarming gesture, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu spoke to the soldiers parents over the phone, expressing deep sorrow and solidarity. He assured the family that the state government would stand firmly by them. Do not lose heart; the government and the people of Andhra Pradesh are with you, the Chief Minister said, promising further assistance and long-term support. As a tribute to the fallen hero, Minister Savitha announced that a statue of Murali Naik would be installed at the main circle in Gorantla, ensuring that his sacrifice would be remembered by future generations. Preparations are already underway for the installation. The final rites of the martyr will be held tomorrow, with full military honours. Army representatives are expected to participate, and state officials will be present to pay their respects.
TDP MPs sister among six killed in Uttarakhand helicopter crash
VIJAYAWADA: TDP Lok Sabha member from Anantapur, G Lakshminarayana, confirmed that his sister, M Vedavati, was among the six killed in a helicopter crash in Uttarakhand on Thursday. Her husband, M Bhaskar, survived but sustained serious injuries. The private helicopter, carrying seven passengers en route to Gangotri temple, crashed near Gangnani in Uttarkashi district at approximately 8:45 am, killing six, including the pilot, according to officials. Vedavati, from Guntakal, was travelling with her husband as part of the Char Dham Yatra, having begun their pilgrimage to Uttarakhands sacred sites on Sunday. Bhaskar suffered fractures to his legs and ribs in the crash and is receiving treatment at AIIMS, Rishikesh, where his condition is reported as stable. Following the incident, MP Lakshminarayana and his brother Badri travelled to Dehradun, but their flight was diverted to Delhi due to adverse weather conditions. Minister for Tourism Kandula Durgesh expressed profound sorrow over Vedavatis death, extending condolences to the family.
CM Chandrababu Naidu keen to complete Handri Neeva on war-footing
VIJAYAWADA: Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is leaving no stone unturned to speed up the Handri-Neeva Sujala Sravanthi (HNSS) project, the backbone of Rayalaseema. On Friday, he will visit Uravakonda in Anantapur to inspect the construction work, laying emphasis on its speedy progress to ensure water reaches every corner at the earliest. During the previous TDP regime, the HNSS project saw major progress. Naidu felt that the project canals were not big enough to carry the much needed water, so he kicked off widening the HNSS Main Canal in April 2017. Big wins included finishing the Gollapalli Reservoir and Madakasira Branch Canal in 201617, with water supplied to Kia Industries from Gollapalli. Cherlopalli and Marala reservoirs were completed by 2018-19, and in 2019, water flowed to Madakasira and Punganur Branch Canals (PBC) for the first time. But from 2019 to 2024, the project was ignored by the previous government, just like Polavaram. Now, with the NDA coalition in charge, Naidu has brought new energy to HNSS. He has sanctioned funds for widening and lining the HNSS Main Canal and PBC, aiming to wrap up Phase I by June 2025. In just five months, the canals water-carrying capacity has jumped from 2,200 cusecs to 3,850 cusecs thanks to lining work. Phase I is almost done, and Phase II, covering Punganur and Kuppam canals, is moving fast. The government is investing `3,873 crore to fix 554 km of canals. Phase I gets `696 crore, while Phase II has `1,256 crore for the HNSS Main Canal (Km 216400) and PBC (Km 075). Work on PBC (Km 75207) started in January 2025 with `480 crore, covering 15 km so far. Kuppam Branch Canal, with `197 crore, began in February 2025, completing 40 km. More plans include `590 crore for HNSS Main Canal (Km 400490), `291 crore for Km 490554, and `362 crore for Neeva Canal (Km 0123). After Phase II, the Main Canal will carry 2,520 cusecs and PBC 840 cusecs. Once completed, the HNSS will water 6,02,500 acres across Kurnool, Anantapur, Kadapa and Chittoor districts. Phase I will irrigate 1,98,000 acres (77,094 in Kurnool, 2,906 in Nandyal, 1,18,000 in Anantapur). Phase II will cover 4,04,500 acres (33,617 in Anantapur, 1,93,383 in Sri Sathya Sai, 37,500 in Kadapa, 1,40,000 in Chittoor). Plus, 33 lakh people in 81 mandals will get drinking water, changing lives in the region.
APSDMA forecasts sudden rains, possibility of lightning strikes in Anantapur district
People should take shelter under a building or a closed vehicle during lightning strikes and not stay in agriculture fields and open places, under trees or electric poles, says Collector
Anantapur MPs Sister Dies in Copter Mishap in Jharkhand
The private helicopter, carrying seven passengers, was en route to Gangotri when it crashed in the morning in Uttarkashi.
AP ECET Answer Key 2025 Released: Submit Challenges by This Date
The Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Anantapur has released the AP ECET answer keys. The answer keys are for the year 2025. Candidates can download the provisional keys from cets.apsche.ap.gov.in. The challenge window is open until May 10, 2025. Students can raise objections online. JNTU Anantapur conducted the AP ECET exam on May 6.
Renew FCRA licence of RDT in Anantapur, urges CPI A.P. secretary
Karnataka minister Gali jailed for seven years in illegal mining case
HYDERABAD: Almost 16 years after the case was registered, a CBI special court at Hyderabad convicted and sentenced BJP leader and former Karnataka minister Gali Janardhan Reddy and three others to seven years imprisonment in the Obulapuram Mining Company illegal mining case. The court also acquitted Sabitha Indra Reddy, the then-minister for mines, and former IAS officer B Kripanandam in the case. Soon after the CBI court pronounced its verdict, the CBI took the four convicts into custody. The four convicts Janardhan Reddy, his brother-in-law BV Srinivas Reddy, the managing director of the OMC and prime accused in the case, the then director of Mines department VD Rajagopal and the former ministers PA Mehfuz Ali Khan were fined Rs 10,000 each while the OMC was fined Rs 1 lakh. Justice has finally prevailed in OMC case, says Sabitha Janardhan Reddy was arrested by the CBI on September 5, 2011 and released on bail by the Supreme Court on January 20, 2015, after spending nearly three and a half years in prison. The CBI had named eight persons, as well as the OMC, as accused in the case. Lingareddy, A-5 in the case, died during the trial. Senior IAS officer Y Srilakshmi, who was arrested and released later, was discharged in the case by the High Court in November 2022. The CBI arrested Janardhan Reddy and Srinivas Reddy on September 5, 2011 for illegal mining and export of iron ore from Ballari in Karnataka and Anantapur in Andhra Pradesh. The scam came to light during the YS Rajasekhara Reddy government in undivided Andhra Pradesh. Soon after YSRs death, the then-chief minister K Rosaiah recommended a CBI probe into the allegations of rampant illegal mining in 2009. The then Congress government filed a complaint with the CBI on December 7, 2009, alleging that OMC was carrying out illegal mining in violation of rules. The complaint said that the company mined 29.30 lakh tonnes of iron ore beyond the permitted area of 68.5 hectares. Cases under relevant Sections of the IPC and Prevention of Corruption Act were registered against the accused. The CBI filed a chargesheet in 2011 alleging that the loss to the exchequer due to the illegal mining was `884.13 crore. The CBI court , which examined 219 witnesses and 3,400 documents, reserved its verdict last month. Justice has prevailed. My political rivals linked me with the illegal mining case and levelled wild allegations against me. But, the people of my constituency reposed faith in me and elected me, said Indra Reddy after the verdict. Unearthing the case The accused A-1 BV Srinivas Reddy (OMC MD, convicted) A-2 Gali Janardhan Reddy (BJP leader and former minister, convicted) A-3 VD Rajagopal (ex-IAS officer, who served as director of Mines, and V-C and MD, AP Mineral Development Corporation, convicted) A-4 Obulapuram Mining Company Pvt Ltd (Convicted) A-5 Rao Lingareddy (ex- AD of the Mines dept, deceased) A-6 Srilakshmi (IAS officer, discharge petition allowed by the HC) A-7 Mehfuz Ali Khan (Janardhans PA, convicted) A-8 B Kripanandam (ex-IAS, acquitted) A-9 P Sabitha Indra Reddy (former minister, acquitted) The nitty gritty The charges included illegally mining iron ore worth Rs 884.13 cr CBI filed a case in 2009 on the complaint of the then Congress govt Chargesheet filed against nine accused in 2011 Lingareddy died while the case was under investigation IAS officer Srilakshmis discharge petition allowed
Protect inscriptions in Anantapur's Penukonda Fort: Historian MyNaa Swamy
ANANTAPUR: Historian MyNaa Swamy has urged the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to repair the crumbling sections of Penukonda Fort in Anantapur district and preserve its historical inscriptions. On Tuesday, Swamy inspected the fort and expressed concern over the condition of the ancient structure. He said, the earliest known inscription, dated 1354 CE, has been damaged due to the shifting of the fort wall. He stressed on the inscriptions importance, noting that it offers details about the forts construction. Swamy pointed out that the inscription located near the northern entrance gate is obscured by a heap of garbage, as municipal officials have been dumping waste in front of it. He said that a section of the wall near the Gorantla entry gate, previously struck by a lorry must be urgently restored. He appealed to officials to intervene without delay and ensure that the site is protected.
Andhra police bust inter-district gang; car, gold, silver ornaments worth Rs 85 lakh seized
ONGOLE: Prakasam police, with support from YSR Kadapa police, arrested a three-member inter-district gang involved in house burglaries, red sanders smuggling, and ganja trafficking. Police recovered stolen property worth Rs 85 lakh, including 924.33 grams of gold, 3.8 kg of silver, 6.19 kg of ganja, and a white Tata Manza car. Prakasam SP AR Damodar presented the accused and seized items to the media at Ongole on Monday. The arrested were Chimparthy Fakruddin alias Goresab (35), Chimparthy Mahaboob Peera (25), both from Khaderpalli in Chaapaadu mandal, and Gandlu Lateef Basha (24) from Proddatur. Police arrested the trio on May 4 near SVKP College in Podili after their car rammed into a tree during an attempted escape. Fakruddin has 111 cases, including 74 for red sanders smuggling and 16 for theft. Peera and Basha are involved in 16 recent theft cases, with Basha having assisted in eight earlier smuggling offences. The gang committed thefts in five districtsthree in Prakasam, eight in Nellore, three in YSR Kadapa, and one each in Anantapur and Annamayya. Following a theft in Podili on April 14, CI T Venkateswarlu and SIs tracked the gang.
Andhra government partners with Oracle, Schneider to train 4 lakh youth in green skills
VIJAYAWADA: In a major thrust to skill development and digital empowerment, the Andhra Pradesh State Skill Development Corporation (APSSDC) on Monday signed landmark agreements with global giants Oracle and Schneider Electric, aiming to train over four lakh youth across the State by 2028. The MoUs were signed in the presence of Minister for IT and Education Nara Lokesh, who said the collaborations would equip APs youth with skills and transform the state into a national hub for innovation, green energy, and digital economy. As part of the deal with Oracle, APSSDC will offer free access to Oracles global MyLearn digital platform, providing 24/7 online training in emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Oracle Cloud, Data Science, and Cybersecurity. The three-year partnership aims to train 4,00,000 students and will feature a co-branded platform tailored for AP learners. Special focus will be placed on inclusivity, encouraging participation from women and marginalised groups. Oracle was represented by Mark K Taylor and Tapas Roy, while APSSDC was represented by Managing Director and CEO G Ganesh Kumar. This collaboration is a step forward in empowering our youth with the skills necessary to thrive in a digital economy, said Lokesh. APSSDC signed an MoU with Schneider Electric to set up 20 advanced training centres across the State, including a flagship `15 crore facility in Mangalagiri and a research centre in Anantapur. A modern Power Optimisation Pilot Project will be launched in ASR district. It will train 9,000 youth by March 2027 in areas like electronics, green energy, and sustainable construction through government ITIs, polytechnics, and NAC centres. Lokesh referenced the recent TCS deal, which saw 21.16 acres in Visakhapatnam allotted at 99 paise, expected to generate 12,000 IT jobs. These partnerships underscore our commitment to building a robust, sustainable economy powered by skilled youth, he said.
Tollywood actor Balakrishna credits poll win to public service, not stardom
ANANTAPUR: At a civic reception held in Sri Sathya Sai district to honor him, a Padma Bhushan recipient, Hindupur MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna delivered a candid address. He attributed his repeated electoral victories to the extensive development work in his constituency, not his film career, stating, My straightforward approach and the many good initiatives and development projects here have earned me the MLA seat consecutively. Balakrishna noted that while many politicians fade into obscurity, he is in his second innings, dedicated to public service. He voiced the Telugu communitys desire for NTR to be honored with the Bharat Ratna, adding, This would be a true recognition by the central government, and we expect it to happen soon. He outlined upcoming infrastructure projects, including a Rs 2.5 crore indoor stadium at MGM and the construction of tar and CC roads across the Hindupur constituency, pledging to further enhance the regions development.
Over 70,000 students appear for NEET UG in Andhra Pradesh
VIJAYAWADA: The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Undergraduate courses (NEET UG) 2025 was conducted smoothly across the State on Sunday, with over 70,000 candidates writing the examination at designated centres in all 26 districts. The exam, held nationwide from 2 to 5 pm, proceeded without major incidents, thanks to elaborate arrangements made by district administrations to ensure fair and orderly conduct. Attendance was notably high in the north coastal region, where 7,179 out of 7,344 candidates appeared in Visakhapatnam district, 1,525 out of 1,550 appeared in Srikakulam and 1,523 in Vizianagaram. In the Godavari districts, Kakinada saw 2,812 candidates taking the test, while 2,690 appeared in East Godavari, 1,847 in West Godavari, and 1,162 in Eluru. Rayalaseema districts also recorded high participation, 4,381 in Kurnool, 1,144 in Nandyal, 2,534 in Anantapur, 2,311 in Kadapa, 4,333 in Tirupati, and 677 in Chittoor. In the south, Nellore had 2,852 examinees and Prakasam 1,428. Among the central districts, NTR stood out with the highest turnout, 13,455 out of 13,625 candidates, across 23 centres. Guntur reported 4,153 candidates at 16 centres, Krishna district saw 1,073 participants, and Bapatla recorded 304 of 316 candidates. However, chaos was reported at Sri Padmavathi Degree and PG College in Tirupati, where students alleged delayed entry, mid-exam biometric interruptions, absence of a wall clock, and poor staff coordination. Candidates demanded a re-exam and urged the District Collector to probe the alleged mismanagement. Apart from the Tirupati episode, NEET UG 2025 concluded smoothly across the State.
Anantapur libraries to become hubs of learning, creativity
Joint Collector Shiv Narayan Sharma, convened a meeting with officials from all 79 libraries, the Grandhalaya Samsthas to train children in drawing, painting and other creative disciplines
New water pipeline laid to govt. womens degree college in Anantapur
APSCHE releases schedule for eight Common Entrance Tests
VIJAYAWADA: The Andhra Pradesh State Council of Higher Education (APSCHE) has released the schedule for eight Common Entrance Tests (CETs), which will be held across the State from May 6 to June 13, 2025. These computer-based examinations are conducted for admissions into various professional courses offered by universities in Andhra Pradesh. Designated universities will conduct the respective CETs. Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University (JNTU), Anantapur, will conduct the AP ECET on May 6, while Andhra University (AU) will hold the AP ICET on May 7. JNTU Kakinada is tasked with administering the AP EAPCET for Agriculture and Pharmacy streams on May 19 and 20, and for Engineering on May 21, 24, 26, and 27. Sri Padmavati Mahila Visvavidyalayam (SPMVV) will conduct AP LAWCET and PGLCET in the morning shift of June 5, followed by Acharya Nagarjuna University (ANU) conducting the AP Ed.CET in the afternoon shift the same day. AU will also handle the AP PGECET from June 6 to 8, while Sri Venkateswara University (SVU) will conduct the AP PGCET from June 9 to 13 across three shifts daily. APSCHE has advised candidates to regularly check the official APSCHE portals for detailed guidelines, hall ticket downloads, and exam-related instructions.
VIJAYAWADA: Andhra Pradesh Minister for Education, IT, and Electronics, Nara Lokesh, declared that even a hundred Pakistans could not harm India, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the nations ultimate weapon against aggression. Speaking at an event marking the resumption of Amaravatis construction, Lokesh condemned Pakistans recent actions, particularly the Pahalgam terror attack, accusing it of making a grave mistake by targeting innocent lives. Pakistan cannot uproot even a blade of grass on Indian soil, he asserted, warning that Modis decisive leadership could erase Pakistan from the world map. Lokesh claimed Pakistans military was in chaos, with personnel resigning or fleeing, calling it a testament to Modis formidable influence. He also criticised the previous Andhra Pradesh governments ruinous 20192024 tenure, alleging it had deliberately stalled Amaravatis development due to personal animosity towards Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. He accused the former regime of wasting five years on a three-capital proposal without laying a single brick, thus hampering the states progress. Highlighting the Amaravati movements resilience, Lokesh noted its 1,631-day struggle, with participation from children to the elderly under the Jai Amaravati banner. He detailed the sacrifices made, including 270 farmer deaths, arrests, police brutality against women farmers, and 3,000 illegal cases filed against protesters. Saluting the farmers unwavering spirit, Lokesh called Amaravati a peoples capital that no conspiracy could suppress, crediting Modi for its foundation and asserting that no force could halt its development. On domestic policy, Lokesh hailed the central governments caste census decision as a bold, historic step by Modi to empower marginalised communities, addressing decades-long struggles for social justice among backward classes. Lokesh announced that Amaravatis construction, relaunched under Modis guidance, marked unstoppable progress for Andhra Pradesh. He outlined decentralised development plans, including the Polavaram project, Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, Bhogapuram Airport, and CNG plants in Prakasam. Reflecting on the post-bifurcation challenges of 2014, he praised Naidu for balancing welfare and development, with Amaravati chosen as the capital through consensus and built on farmers sacrifices. He said regions like Rayalaseema had become electronics and automobile hubs, Godavari districts aqua hubs, and North Andhra pharma and IT hubs. Lokesh underscored the double-engine government of Modi and Naidu, saying the NDAs 94% seat share in the 2024 elections reflected public trust. He said Modis supportthrough initiatives like the Visakhapatnam Railway Zone, NTPC Green Energy, and the Nakkapalli Bulk Drug Parkdemonstrated his commitment to Andhra Pradesh. Lokesh described Modi and Naidu as powerful engines driving development and welfare. On economic progress, Lokesh revealed that in 10 months, the state had secured Rs. 8 lakh crore in investments, generating 5 lakh jobs. A mega DSC notification for 16,347 posts had been issued, alongside major projects including NTPC Green Energy (Rs. 1.85 lakh crore, 57,000 jobs), ArcelorMittal in Anakapalli (Rs. 1.36 lakh crore, 55,000 jobs), and BPCL in Ramayapatnam (Rs. 97,000 crore, 3,000 jobs). He said investments from LG Electronics in Tirupati, renewable energy in Kurnool, Kadapa, and Anantapur, Reliance CNG in Prakasam, and pharma and IT in North Andhra were aimed at uplifting all districts. The government, he added, aimed to create 20 lakh jobs in five years, signalling a robust economic vision.
APSCHE announces schedule for Common Entrance Tests
JNTU-Anantapur to conduct A.P. Engineering Common Entrance Test on May 6
JNTUA Result 2025 Released at jntua.ac.in Direct Link to Download 1st, 2nd, 4th Semester Result
JNTUA Result 2025: Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Anantapur Result 2025 has been released on jntua.ac.in. Here is the direct Link to check your B.Tech/M.Sc/MBA/MCA 1st, 2nd, 4th Semester Results Online.
Denial of FCRA renewal hits RDTs life-changing services
ANANTAPUR: The Rural Development Trust (RDT), an NGO serving marginalised rural communities in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana since 1969, is facing a crisis following the non-renewal of its Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) licence. Dedicated to sustainable development across education, healthcare, womens empowerment, disability-inclusive growth, ecology, and livelihoods, RDT has transformed the lives of over 4,50,000 families across 3,906 villages. The denial of FCRA renewal now threatens to severely disrupt its operations and jeopardise the futures of the communities it supports. The RDT operates three hospitals in Anantapur district, providing critical healthcare services, including specialised treatments and emergency care. Annually, these facilities handle 8.5 lakh outpatient visits, 60,000 inpatient admissions, 15,000 deliveries, and 15,000 surgeries. They also offer HIV care for 4,900 individuals and have performed 26 bone marrow transplants for children with thalassemia. Employing 691 healthcare professionals, including 37 DNB residents annually, these hospitals risk closure without FCRA funding, cutting off essential health services to thousands of rural residents. RDTs education programmes have been instrumental in transforming the lives of rural youth by ensuring access to quality education, scholarships, and vocational training. Since 2004, 2,697 students have benefited from higher education scholarships, boasting a 67% employment rate among graduates. The trust has achieved 100% enrolment and retention rates among remote communities like the Chenchu tribe and distributed 40,891 bicycles to improve school attendance. Gutturu Lavanya, a beneficiary of RDTs support, recently secured State Rank No. 1 and All India Rank 65 in the NEET PG 2024 exam, crediting RDT for making her dream possible. The RDTs programmes for inclusive education and disability rehabilitation have created transformative opportunities for thousands. They operate five inclusive residential schools, offer job training for disabled youth, run a successful Special Olympics programme, and provide essential mobility aids. The story of Obi Reddy, who was visually impaired from birth and supported by RDT, is a testament to the organisations impact. He is now an Assistant Manager at the Central Bank of India, earning Rs 81,000 a month.
MLA expresses ire over supply of rotten eggs at anganwadi centres in Anantapur
Daggubati Venkateswara Prasad makes a surprise visit to the anganwadi centres in Rahmat Nagar and inspects the quality of eggs and chikkis supplied to the children
Congress leader murdered at Guntakal, Sharmila demands fair investigation
ANANTAPUR: The gruesome murder of Chippagiri Lakshminarayana, Aluru constituency Congress incharge, has triggered widespread outrage in the region. The 58-year-old Dalit leader was a former MPTC member. The attack took place near the Aluru bridge on the outskirts of Guntakal, where assailants deliberately rammed a tipper into Lakshminarayanas car, and then hacked him to death with hunting machetes. Lakshminarayana was going from Guntakal to Chippagiri, along with his son Vinod and two others, when the attack took place. Guntakal police have identified four suspects in connection with the murder, and registered a case. A manhunt was launched to nab the assailants. The combination of a vehicular collision and machete assault highlighted the audacity of the crime. Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee president YS Sharmila condemned the murder of Lakshminarayana, describing it as a stark reflection of the deteriorating law and order situation in the State. In a post on X with images of the mangled car, and a Congress event, she demanded a high-level investigation to ensure that the culprits are severely punished. Sharmila expressed deep condolences to Lakshminarayanas family, pledging the partys full support to it. APCC vice-president Kolanukonda Shivaji said Lakshminarayana had sought police protection due to threat to his life from rivals, but no action was taken. Alleging possible involvement of TDP-led coalition supporters in the murder, Shivaji urged an impartial probe to deliver justice. The Congress called for urgent measures to address the escalating threats to public safety.
Kia theft case: Cops seize TN trucks, arrest eight ex-employees
ANANTAPUR: The police have seized four trucks from Tamil Nadu believed to have been used to transport approximately 900 stolen car engines from Kia Indias Penukonda facility in Sri Sathya Sai district. The theft, worth over Rs 20 crore, was uncovered during a recent audit and dates back to 2020. The case came to light after Kia representatives lodged a complaint on March 20, 2025. A special police team was formed to investigate the theft, and the probe has since remained under tight security, with authorities refraining from disclosing details. On April 16, eight individuals, all former employees of the Kia plant, were arrested in connection with the theft. They were presented before the Penukonda magistrate and remanded to custody. The arrests followed the detention of a local suspect, whose information led authorities to the remaining suspects from Tamil Nadu. The stolen engines were allegedly transported using the seized trucks, which have now been brought to Penukonda for further investigation. The involvement of former employees has raised concerns about security lapses at the plant. Authorities are continuing to probe the operations full extent, including any potential buyers or additional accomplices. So far, there has been little official communication about the cases progress.
Former MLA urges State and Centre to renew FRCA of RDT
The services of RTD, which works for the upliftment of the poor, are not just limited to Anantapur, but extend across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, says YSRCP leader
Helmet And Hydration Banks Launched For Police In Anantapur District
The Helmet Bank provides khaki helmets for male officers and pink ones for female personnel, while the Hydration Bank stocks chilled water and electrolyte beverages to keep officers refreshed.
Rat Attack Injures 10 Female Students at Anantapur College Hostel
The college principal reportedly tried to keep the incident quiet.
MBBS Student Injured After Jumping From College Building in Kurnool
Sources said the girl from Atmakur mandal in Anantapur district, was studying at a private college in Penchikalapadu of Kurnool district
Anantapur Collector receives award for successful implementation of Swachh Andhra Rural programme
Ganja should not enter Anantapur district, warns SP
P. Jagadeesh conducts raids at the Anantapur railway station focussing on trains passing through Anantapur, Gooty and Guntakal
Anantapur Police crackdown on transport vehicles ferrying passengers
Police stop a pickup van carrying labourers and ask the labourers to go to work in autos
Anantapur Collector cautions against fake social media accounts
Some people have been asking for money through fake accounts created in his name and other senior government officials, says Vinod Kumar
Rich tributes paid to Dr. Ambedkar in Kurnool, Nandyal and Anantapur districts
Ministers, MPs and Collectors participate actively in the Ambedkar Jayanthi celebrations held across the three districts, lionise the Father of the Indian Constitution as the champion of social justice and equal rights
Seven from undivided Kurnool and Anantapur districts make their way to YSRCPs PAC
YSRCP State Coordinator Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy has been appointed as the Coordinator of the Political Advisory Committee
High alert over Jagans visit to Ramagiri
Police are on high alert, as reports are that Jagan Mohan Reddy will be accompanied by thousands of party men from the erstwhile Anantapur district during the visit
HNSS canal extension works to be completed by June 10, says Finance Minister
Inspects the extension works, which received a fund of 3,800 crore from the State government, at Uravakonda town on the Uravakonda-Anantapur main road
Co-workers kill man in Anantapur
A worker at a biryani centre under Two Town police station died when his co-workers attacked him in the Court Road area of Anantapur.
Ensure every government scheme reaches people: A.P. Health Minister
Satya Kumar Yadav, along with the party MP from Telangana M. Raghunandan Rao and others, participate in the BJP formation day celebrations held at the party office in Anantapur
Heavy rains lash Vijayawada, thundershowers expected in parts of Andhra Pradesh
Alluri Sitarama Raju, Kakinada, East Godavari, Anantapur, Annamayya, and Tirupati districts are likely to receive light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thundershowers.
Paritala Sunitha asks Jagan not to fuel factionalism
Paritala Sunitha pointed out that Paritala and Gangula families have already suffered heavily due to factional violence, with about 45 people killed in Anantapur
Anantapur doctors treat enlarged prostate in 75-year-old non-surgically
Prostatic Artery Embolization performed on the patient in the cath lab, says doctor
Chain snatcher attacks sachivalayam employee
A chain snatcher attacked a woman employee of the gram sachivalayam near the HLC Colony under Three Town Police station limits in Anantapur city during the early hours of Tuesday.
Anantapur: Stray dogs to get QR codes
In view of alleged negligence by the AMC team over false reports of ABC on the dogs, the exclusive concept is to protect innocent stray dogs but with proper medical care like vaccination and even exploration of fluorescent light during dark so the public can be aware of the stray dogs
Will strengthen TDP as a major political force in country, says Anantapur MP
Ambica G. Lakshminarayana, along with Anantapur Urban MLA Daggubati Venkateswara Prasad and party district president Venkatasivudu Yadav, lays foundation stone for the TDP office for the Urban constituency on the occasion of the party foundation day
Cy-Tb skin test facility inaugurated in Anantapur
Anantapur TB Control Officer explains the importance of the test, saying that it is a strategic initiative of the Union government to eradicate tuberculosis via early detection
Hari-Hara Temple to come up over 60 acres in Anantapur
The temple will have the first ever 300-feet high Shivalingam of 10 floors
Government extends support to banana farmers who attempted to end life following crop loss
The Chief Minister directed the Anantapur district administration to monitor the health condition of the two farmers undergoing treatment at the Government General Hospital
Crops spread over 40 villages in 10 mandals of Kadapa, Anantapur, Sri Sathya Sai and Prakasam districts damaged, officials tell the Chief Minister; he enquires about two banana farmers who attempted suicide reportedly due to crop loss
Millet Man of India asks farmers to avoid usage of fertilisers
Khadar Vali takes a dig at the policy of giving subsidies for fertilisers, and the distribution of rice through the public distribution system on the second day of the three-day Millets Mela2025 in Anantapur
Judge Felicitates Restorer of Sparrows in Anantapur
This led to formation of Anantapur Discover, which researched and set up tens of thousands of artificial nests for the birds. In due course, birds started adopting the artificial nests and started laying their eggs.
AP players win four medals in Khelo India
AP won one gold medal and three silver medals, and the players include Rongali Siva from Anakapalli, who won the gold medal in shot put (40 feet), and three players who won silver medals in 100 metres, including Sheikh Babu from Anantapur, V. Bhavani from Nellore and Ambati Swaraj from Srikakulam
Telangana HC Quashes ED Case Against Ex-IAS BP Acharya
In a relief to retired IAS officer B.P. Acharya, the Telangana High Court set aside criminal proceedings initiated by the Enforcement Directorate against him in relation to allegations of fraud and breach of contract in allocating land in Anantapur to the Indu group and its head Shyam Prasad Reddy in name of Lepakshi Knowledge Centre.
Three-day millet mela from March 22 in Anantapur
The mela is being organised by the Anantha Susthira Vyavasaya Vedika and the Indian Institute of Millet Research, Agricultural Research Station
Andhra Pradesh: Central University Guest Faculty Dies by Suicide
The police registered it as a suspicious death, and the body was shifted to the Government General Hospital in Anantapur for a post-mortem examination.
Hearing aids distributed to 260 persons free of cost in Anantapur district
Hearing aids worth 40 lakh distributed to the needy with the Corporate Social Responsibility funds of Solar Energy Corporation Limited
Anantapur police to rope in NGOs to spread awareness among people
We have started innovative programmes like Cyber Suraksha and several other similar programmes to reach out to the people, says SP
Anantapur SP tells people to celebrate Holi peacefully
Young mountaineer cycles from Anantapur to Mangalagiri to seek aid for her expeditions
Police foil shop burglary attempt in Chittoor; four nabbed, three absconding
The three-hour high drama happened at Gandhi Road in Chittoor Corporation limits; of the total seven, one individual is a local trader, three are from Anantapur, while the rest belong to Nandyal district, according to preliminary information
Womens Day celebrated in Nandyal, Anantapur and Kurnool districts
Women given equal opportunities on par with men in the country, says Nandyal MP
File chargesheets on post-election violence cases in 10 days, Anantapur Collector tells police
V. Vinod Kumar made the instructions at a review meeting on the post-election scenario in the district, attended by the SP and senior police officers from sub-divisions
Andhra Man Kills Daughter, Burns Body In Forest Over Love Affair
A 55-year-old man in Andhra Pradesh's Anantapur district has been accused of hanging his daughter and subsequently burning her body, reportedly due to her love affair.
Anantapur Man Murders Daughter for Defying His Wishes
A father reportedly killed his younger daughter and set fire to her body on the outskirts of Guntakal in Anantapur district after she refused to end her relationship with her boyfriend.
Anantapur: 4 of family die in mishap
Four persons, including three sisters and three-month old baby were killed near Kammur Kudair in Anantapur district when their auto rickshaw was hit by a car on Sunday.
Three sisters, infant girl die in auto-car collision in Anantapur district
The auto crashed into the roadside fields after it was hit by the car, and under the impact of the collision, the mother and her baby girl died instantly, said the police
Home minister exhorts newly inducted SIs to strive for a crime free Andhra Pradesh
State Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha urged 394 newly inducted sub inspectors, including 97 women, to work towards a crime-free Andhra Pradesh during a passing out parade in Anantapur. She emphasized prompt case resolution, women's and children's safety, and strict action against narcotics. The event saw participation from State DGP Harish Kumar Gupta and other officials.
Government working towards making A.P. drug and ganja-free State, says Home Minister
Directs police to use technology effectively to curb cybercrimes at the at the passing out parade of 394 Sub-Inspectors of police, including 97 women from the Police Training College in Anantapur
Vijayawada police serve notice to Gorantla Madhav
Police visited former MP Gorantla Madhavs residence in Anantapur on Thursday and served him a notice to appear before the Cyber Crime Police on the 5th of next month for questioning.
Five awarded life imprisonment for murder of youth in Anantapur district of A.P.
Though the main witnesses turned hostile during the trial, the accused were convicted based on scientific evidence, the police said
Students protest at Andhra university after men spotted in womens washroom
Tension prevailed at Anantapur Central University located in Bukkarayasamudram Mandal of Andhra Pradesh on Sunday, February 16, after unidentified men allegedly entered the girls bathroom sparking safety concerns. The incident occurred at about 9:00 pm. When the students came to know about the individuals presence, they immediately alerted police and university authorities. However, the response Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
HCCBs CSR initiatives launched in Sri Sathya Sai & Anantapur districts Andhra Pradesh
These initiatives include the installation of a water ATM, Reverse Osmosis (RO) filters, new toilet facilities, and a comprehensive Water Access, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) program. Shri Satya Kumar Yadav, Minister of Health, Family Welfare, and Medical Education, Government of Andhra Pradesh, inaugurated HCCBs CSR initiatives at an event held at Sivampalli, Tadimarri Block, Sri Sathya Sai District, Andhra Pradesh.
PD Act will be invoked against land grabbers: Anantapur Police
Cases were registered against eight persons for attempting to illegally occupy the property of another group of individuals
Anantapur Police solve murder-for-gain case; one arrested
Police recovered the stolen golden ornaments, mobile phone and the cash from Shaik Ansar
Cyber Suraksha launched in Andhras Anantapur
Wife, two accomplices, held for mans murder
Victim was murdered after he learnt about his wifes extra-marital affair and threatened to kill the couple, says Anantapur Rural CI
Reclaim encroached municipal corporation lands, Anantapur Urban MLA tells officials
A 60 MLD water plant was set up to resolve the drinking water problems of the corporation and it is presently in the testing stage, he says
Milk adulteration in Anantapur: Upa-Lokayukta orders crackdown
A recent probe by food safety officials shows that milk is being adulterated in Anantapur district with a harmful chemical called maltodextrin, which mimic the consistency of real milk, says the Upa-Lokayukta
Anantapur police ropes in social media influencers in fight against cyber rimes
Anantapur to be made countrys horticulture hub
The district exported more than one lakh tonnes of banana recently to Iran through Container Corporation of India train rakes, says Finance Minister
Global companies to be part of Ananta Horticulture Conclave today
Horticulture orchards are spread over more than 1.04 lakh hectares in Anantapur district alone. They produced 25.96 lakh metric tonnes, topping the state in fruit production last year
Stadium will be constructed in Anantapur soon, says SAAP Chairperson
Ravi Naidu visits District Sports Authority office in Anantapur town and enquires about the functioning of the authority and progress of various works undertaken by them
Trio arrested for stealing agriculture pump sets in Anantapur district
Animal birth control centres near dump yards poses major health risks
Anantapur: A majority of the municipal corporations and municipalities in Andhra Pradesh are violating the guidelines of the Animal Welfare Board of India, which does not approve establishment of animal birth control centres closer to dump yards. This rule violation by civic bodies is posing a risk to the environment, public and animal welfare, activists say. The location of these centres near landfills raises public health concern. When sterilized dogs are returned to their original locations, they may carry pathogens acquired from the landfill environment, thereby increasing the risk of zoonotic disease transmission to human populations. This, it is said, could lead to the spillover of diseases, contributing to the spread of infectious pathogens, including those resistant to antibiotics, which exacerbates the ongoing antimicrobial resistance crisis in the country. Animal birth control is practiced mostly among stray dogs to avoid the alarming rise in rabies infection. However, with no proper immunisation and abnormal birth of dogs, there exists a threat to the public especially children and the elderly in the streets. The setting up of animal birth control centres in corporations and municipalities is mandatory. Previously, several NGOs were involved in the conduct operations, and they left the dogs in the same locality. Lack of proper birth control efforts for dogs etc in many regions of AP is causing panic among the residents mainly of interior colonies and on the main roads. There has been a sharp increase in the number of stray dogs, and some of them are ferocious. In recent years, the civic bodies have been establishing animal birth control centres. But, the Animal Welfare Board of India received complaints from animal lovers that several of these centres were established nearby waste disposal and landfills areas. This, it is noted, is a violation of the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, notified by the central environment ministry The regulations mandate a 500-metre buffer zone from the boundary of landfills to prevent environmental and health hazards. In April last year, the animal welfare board stated that the birth control centres set up in close proximity to landfills posed serious risks to the environment, public health and animal welfare. Landfills emit toxic gases, hazardous leachates, and bioaerosols containing harmful microorganisms, which create unsafe living conditions for nearby inhabitants, including animals. Stray dogs brought to these centres for sterilization are particularly vulnerable to secondary infections due to their exposure to pathogens from the landfill environment, it is noted. Post-surgery, their compromised immune systems further heighten the risk of infection, leading to unnecessary suffering, delayed recovery and a violation of animal welfare principles. However, the Anantapur Municipal Corporation was not following the guidelines and its action of establishing the animal birth control centre in the dump yard area, raising many an eyebrow. AMC has announced it would start animal birth control operations from the first week of February. Following this, animal lovers and environmentalists represented the board, citing rule violations. The animal welfare board has also directed the states /UTs to issue necessary directions to the relevant authorities to immediately relocate all such animal birth control centres situated near landfills to suitable locations.
Revised Value for Land Registration in AP From Feb. 1
Vijayawada: The Andhra Pradesh government is revising the land value for registration purposes from February 1. It sought public opinion on this by posting the proposed enhancement on the website of the Stamps and Registration department. A revision of land value is done every year after supposedly taking opinions from the people. The value goes up majorly in areas where infrastructure development works are on, or are likely to happen. The stamps and registration department was doing hectic efforts in recent days to finalise the new values based on the feedback from the people. Visakhapatnam district: In the municipal corporation of Pedawaltair habitation and MVP sector-1, the existing value per square yard is Rs 62,000 while the prevailing market value is pegged at Rs 1.25 lakh and the proposed value is Rs 75,000 with a 21 per cent enhancement. With regard to value per square feet, the existing value is Rs 4,500 against the prevailing market value of Rs 7,000 and the proposed value is Rs 5,300 with a hike of Rs 18 per cent. Anakapalli district: In the municipal area of Velpula Veedhi near ATGH School, the existing square yard rate is Rs 25,000 against the proposed rate of Rs 25,000 and square feet rate of Rs 3,000 with no change at all. NTR district: In Vijayawadas Kakani Nagar Street, the proposed value per square yard is Rs 45,000 and the proposed value per square feet Rs 3,800. The prevailing rates have not been specified by the authorities to compare the percentage of the hike in the proposed values. Anantapur district: In Tadipatri municipality, at Yellanuru Road, the existing market value per square yard fixed in June 2023 was 20,000 and the proposed market value was pegged at Rs 22,000 while the existing value per square feet is Rs 2,700 and the proposed value is Rs 2,900 with a slight hike being effected in values. Meanwhile, realtors are expecting that the revision of land values for registration could be in the range of 10 to 20 per cent on average. They maintain that land values will go up in areas where they are relatively less at present and where developmental works are either proposed or are going on in a hectic manner. AP Credai president YV Ramana Rao said, We are eagerly waiting to know the quantum of revision of land registration values with an expectation for revival of the reality sector. It has been down for some time in AP. Revenue minister Anagani Satya Prasad announced recently that there will be no revision of the land registration values in the capital city region of Amaravati.
Review spotlights snail pace implementation of housing schemes in Anantapur
Alcoholism, Wage Abuse Affecting Farmers, Workers: IYR Krishna Rao
I.Y.R. Krishna Rao I.Y.R. Krishna Rao Kurnool: Former chief secretary I.Y.R. Krishna Rao said that farmers and labourer was being affected by two major problems. He said that alcoholism was causing domestic violence and financial troubles and the misuse of wages which should be spent on family welfare rather than addictions. He was speaking at Rythu Cooli Sadassu organized by Sri Krishnadevaraya University on the campus premises in Anantapur On Tuesday. University Rector G. Venkata Naidu pointed out that the agricultural sector was struggling due to mechanisation, increasing seed prices and a lack of support prices for crops. Advocate Raghavendra opined that though Anantapur had become a horticulture hub and groundwater levels have improved with the Handri Neeva project, the agricultural sector continues to face difficulties due to poor coordination between farmers and workers. The seminar was attended by farmers, labourers, teachers, research students and university students.
11-member Sri Lankan delegation visits Anantapur villages to study natural farming model
Members of Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement in Sri Lanka in collaboration with NOW Partners Foundation, tour natural farming fields in the district.
Blackspots identified, corrective steps taken to prevent accidents, says Anantapur SP
