Scrap trader shot dead, another battling for life

Anantapur: A scrap trader was shot dead by rivals at Madhavaram village in Rayachoti mandal in Annamayya district on Sunday. His associate, who was shot at, is battling for life at the RIMS Hospital in Kadapa. Police identified the victim as Hanumanthu, 50, and the survivor as Ramana, 30. Sources said, Hanumanthu and Ramana had set up huts in an open place between Madhavaram and Katimayakunta in Rayachoti mandal for their business. On Sunday morning, a group of unidentified persons from a nearby hillock rushed to their huts, shot at the traders and fled. The duo was shifted to the RIMS Hospital where Hanumanthu died during treatment. People alerted Rayachoti police who rushed to the spot and informed neighbouring police stations to nab the gang. Rayachoti DSP Krishna Mohan said investigation is on to find out the reasons for the attack. He suspected business rivalry to be the cause of the murder.

3,150 students take Vadaanya Talent Test in Sri SathyaSaidistrict

Anantapur: The Hyderabad-based Vadaanya Talent Test 2024, organised on National Maths Day to honour Srinivasa Ramanujan's birthday, concluded successfully for the fourth consecutive year. Hall tickets were issued to 3,400 students from grades 9 and 10 across ZPHS government high schools in Sri Sathya Sai district. The test, held at seven centres in Kothacheruvu, saw participation from 3,150 students representing over 150 schools. DSP B. Vijay Kumar and CI Indira inspected the centres and praised Vadaanya's initiatives for government school students. Vadaanyas founder, Ashok, extended gratitude to the police and government staff for their support. Results will be announced on January 10.

Irrigation Minister Rama Naidu to Review Gandikota Tourism Plans

Anantapur: Irrigation Minister Rama Naidu is scheduled to visit the Gandikota reservoir in Kadapa district on Sunday. Following the Centre's announcement of Rs 70 crore for the development of the historic Grand Canyon and Gandikota Fort area, the Minister will review the proposed tourism development projects in and around Gandikota with officials.

Tadipathri Municipality gets gold medal for saving electricity

Anantapur: Tadipathri Municipality received the gold medal at the State Energy Conservation Awards for saving electricity through planned usage. The award was presented during a ceremony at Taj Vivanta Hotel in Vijayawada, where Tadipathri Municipal commissioner S. Shivarama Krishna received the gold medal from energy special chief secretary K. Vijayanand, APGENCO managing director K. Chakradhar Babu, APCPDCL CMD Patha Shetty, State Energy Conservation Mission CEO Kumar Reddy, and other officials. The gold medal was awarded for energy savings in the operation and maintenance of streetlights and drinking water supply motors across the state. Vizianagaram Municipal Corporation received the silver medal, following Tadipathri Municipality. Tadipathri Municipal chairman J.C. Prabhakar Reddy and MLA J.C. Asmith Reddy praised the civic team for earning the gold medal in energy conservation, reinforcing Tadipathris position as a leading and model municipality in the state.

Farmer sentenced to 2 years for electrocution death

Anantapur: A farmer was sentenced to two years of imprisonment by the Madakasira Magistrate Court on Friday in connection with the death of a person who was electrocuted after coming into contact with the fencing of a pomegranate orchard in Madakasira Mandal, Satya Sai district. Sources said that Prasad, a resident of Buddayapalem village in Madakasira Mandal, was near the orchard of farmer B. Hanumantha Rayappa when he came into contact with the electric fencing. The fencing had been supplied with electricity without any preventive measures. Prasad died on the spot in December 2020, and the Madakasira police registered a case based on a complaint from the deceased's family members. On Friday, the Magistrate Court pronounced its verdict, sentencing orchard owner Hanumantha Rayappa to two years in prison for being responsible for the death of an innocent person.

Drug menace: police told to step up vigil on trains, buses, vehicles entering Anantapur

Additional SP reports ganja shipments are trafficked from Araku and Visakhapatnam, subsequently transported via Kurnool, loaded onto trains and buses bound for Anantapur

Jagan Urges Cadres to Protest Against Government

Vijayawada: YSR Congress president and former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has urged party members to channel public dissent against the coalition government into an organised agitation, highlighting its failures and serving as the voice of the people. Addressing local representatives from the Anantapur district on Thursday, he remarked that public discontent with the Chandrababu Naidu-led government has reached unprecedented levels within six months, making it crucial to take these issues to the people. Outlining the YSRCs roadmap for public protests, Jagan emphasised issue-based campaigns. On December 27, the party plans to protest against rising electricity charges by urging citizens to burn inflated bills as a symbolic act of dissent. On January 3, attention will shift to the pending Rs.3,900 crore in fee reimbursement and hostel grant dues, which have disrupted students education. These protests are not about politics; they are about standing by the people and amplifying their voices, Jagan stressed. He criticised the Telugu Desams governance, citing an additional Rs.15,000 crore burden on citizens due to increased electricity charges. Jagan also reminded party workers that adversity is part of leadership. Injustice, court cases, and even jail time are inevitable in the fight for peoples rights. I was jailed for 16 months but emerged stronger to become Chief Minister, he said, inspiring confidence among party members. Jagan dismissed Naidus Vision 2047 as a hollow distraction, contrasting it with YSRCs initiatives. While Naidu spins colorful tales, we have brought meaningful changestransforming government schools to rival private institutions, introducing cutting-edge courses, and revolutionizing healthcare through programs like the Family Doctor system, he explained. Reiterating the need for collective action, Jagan called for resilience and determination. The publics dissatisfaction with the TD government is evident. We must channel this sentiment into meaningful resistance. Together, we can transform this opposition into support for the YSRC, he concluded.

Dont distribute cheques with MLA in Kukatpally: HC tells TG

Hyderabad: Justice T. Madhavi Devi of the Telangana High Court directed the state not to distribute cheques of any kind to the beneficiaries under the government order issued on June 29 and July 16, 2016, without the participation of constituency MLA of Kukatpally Assembly. The judgment was given while hearing a writ plea filed by Madhavaram Krishna Rao, an MLA from the Kukatpally Assembly constituency. The petitioner alleged that the Kukatpally Revenue Divisional Officer and others, were involving the candidates who were defeated in the 2023 Assembly elections for the distribution of cheques on behalf of the government though it was the petitioner, an elected as MLA, who should have been invited for the programme as per G.O.Ms.Nos.18 and 25 issued in June and July 2016 respectively. The petitioner challenged the actions of the respondents in disrespecting and disregarding him, the elected representative, who was otherwise conferred with the task and object in implementing welfare schemes for the weaker sections. After hearing the counsel for the petitioner, the judge directed the government pleader to get instructions and directed the state backward classes welfare department and others to not to distribute cheques without participation of the petitioner. Court orders unfreezing of singers bank a/c Justice B. Vijaysen Reddy of Telangana High Court directed the authorities to unfreeze the bank account of Indian singer Jasleen Kaur Royal, which was freezed in relation to cancellation of a concert in Hyderabad. The judge was dealing with a writ plea filed by the petitioner challenging the actions of the police authorities in freezing the bank account of the petitioner under the provisions of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) following an FIR registered on November 6, at Madhapur Police Station, Cyberabad. The petitioner argued that her account had been frozen arbitrarily, without any proper investigation or complaint. The petitioner further claimed the station house officer of the Cyberabad Crime Police Station directed IDBI Bank to freeze the account on the pretext of an investigation, without providing adequate justification. The petitioner also alleged that freezing of her bank account violated her fundamental rights under the Constitution. The Assistant Government Pleader defended the freezing of the account, stating that an investigation was underway and there were financial disputes between the petitioner and unofficial respondent. The authorities claimed that the petitioner was absconding and noted that Rs 10 lakh, linked to the non-performance of the concert, had been transferred into her account. The petitioner refuted the allegations, contending that she had no objection to the payment of Rs 10 lakh but argued that freezing the entire account was disproportionate, excessive, and a violation of her rights. The judge observed that while the authorities have the power to freeze accounts during investigations, such actions must not be arbitrary or exceed legal boundaries. The judge also held that the freezing of the petitioners account lacked sufficient justification, was procedurally unfair, and violated established legal principles. The judge ordered the unfreezing of her bank account, which contained over Rs 2.5 crores, while imposing a lien of Rs 10 lakh to protect the interest of both parties. The matter is posted for further adjudication. State must pay compensation: HC Justice T. Vinod Kumar of the Telangana High Court reiterated that authorities under Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act are obligated to pay the one-time compensation as specified in Schedule II to the affected family members. He also ruled that the petitioner cannot claim parity in an illegality and said the courts cannot perpetuate any illegality committed earlier by the authorities. The judge was dealing with a plea seeking employment under the rehabilitation and resettlement (R&R) provisions of the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 (LARR Act). The writ plea was filed by Darla Surya Lakshman Kumar contending that land acquisition proceedings were initiated in relation to land situated in Khanman district. The land, measuring 1 acre and 25 guntas, initially belonged to the petitioners late father Venugopal Raju. The land was acquired for the Bhadrachalam Thermal Power Project. The competent authority under Section 64 of the LARR Act concluded that the petitioner and his two brothers, as legal heirs, were entitled to compensation for the acquired land. The name of the petitioner was subsequently mutated in the revenue records as the rightful owner. The petitioner argued that he qualified as an affected family under Section 3(C) of the LARR Act and was entitled to benefits under Section 31, including employment for one adult family member. He claimed that his daughter, who attained majority in 2020 and qualified in civil engineering, should be considered eligible for employment as per Schedule II of the Act. He further contended that the denial of employment benefits violated the provisions of the LARR Act and amounted to arbitrary and discriminatory action by the authorities as few of the affected persons were provided with employment. Government Pleader opposed the plea, arguing that the petitioner was ineligible for employment benefits under Schedule II, as the land acquisition proceedings were initiated when the property was still in the name of the petitioners father. He also argued that the Government Orders relied on by the petitioner ceased to operate. The counsel highlighted that in similar cases, claims for employment of grandchildren of the original pattadar were rejected on the grounds that they do not qualify as members of the affected family under Section 3(c) of the LARR Act. The judge observed that the petitioner and his brothers were not eligible for employment at the time of the land acquisition proceedings. While acknowledging the petitioners status as a member of an affected family, the judge clarified that he could only claim a one-time payment under Schedule II, as no family member qualified for employment. The judge concluded that the petitioner could not invoke the principles of equity to demand employment for his daughter, as doing so would perpetuate illegality. It directed the petitioner to pursue alternative legal remedies while reiterating that the authorities were obligated to pay the one-time compensation as specified in Schedule II to the affected family members. The judge held that the petitioner could not seek parity in illegality and must explore other legal remedies, as equity cannot be extended to perpetuate a wrongful claim. HC takes up case on contract dispute A two-judge bench of the Telangana High Court comprising Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice J. Sreenivas Rao will continue to hear an appeal pertaining to a commercial dispute between private parties revolving around the existence of a valid agreement. The panel is hearing an appeal filed by Montecino Constructions Private Limited, challenging the decision of the trial court for dismissing the plaintiffs claim for the recovery of approximately Rs 1.38 crore. The case stems from a memorandum of understanding (MoU) pertaining to the acquisition of a solar power plant located in Maddimadugu, Kadiri, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh. The appellant contended that it paid Rs 1 crore in advance to the Raajratna Energy Holdings Private Limited. However, the MoU was terminated due to alleged breaches by the respondent. Despite issuing repeated demands, including a legal notice, the respondent failed to refund the advance amount. The trial court dismissed the claim, holding that the plaintiff failed to establish a contractual relationship with the defendant. The trial court noted that the MoU was executed between the respondent and India Land Group, with no privity of contract involving the plaintiff. Additionally, the plaintiff did not include India Land Group, a necessary party, in the suit, rendering the claim legally untenable. In its appeal, the appellant sought to overturn the trial courts decision and demanded approximately Rs 1.86 crore, including interest.

Four-member gang arrested for theft of copper and aluminium wires

The gang melted the stolen wires and turned them into ingots and stored them in a hut at Kakkalapalli near Anantapur for selling the same in Hyderabad

Five accused get bail in Paritala ravi murder case after 18 years

VIJAYAWADA: The AP High Court on Wednesday granted conditional bail to five accused in the sensational Paritala Ravindra murder case. The quintet include P Narayana Reddy (A 3), V Rekhamaiah (A4), Bhajana Ranganayakulu (A5), A Kondaiah (A6) and Medimi Obi Reddy (A8). The accused were granted bail after 18 years. The High Court directed the Anantapur district magistrate court to ensure that the five accused appear before the jurisdictional police station house officer on every Monday. The court made it clear that their bail will be cancelled if they commit any crimes or indulge in anti-social activities. It may be recalled that former minister and TDP MLA Paritala Ravindra alias Paritala Ravi was shot dead in broad daylight while he was coming out of the party office at Penukonda in Anantapur district on January 24, 2005. His gunman and one of his aides were also killed in the incident. The CBI investigated the case, and concluded that the age-old rivalry between the families of Paritala Ravi and Congress leader Gangula Suryanarayana Reddy (Maddelacheruvu Suri) led to the murder, and that the latter hatched a conspiracy while he was undergoing sentence in the Jubilee Hills bomb blast case of 1997. The probe further revealed that Julakanti Srinivas Reddy (known as Moddu Srinu), P Narayana Reddy and Rekhamaiah shot Paritala Ravindra. In August 2011, the Anantapur sessions court convicted eight persons in the murder case, and sentenced them to life imprisonment. Cases against the three prime accused Suri, Moddu Srinu, and Tagarakunta Konda Reddy were abated as they were murdered in separate incidents during the case trial. Moddu Srinu was murdered in Anantapur jail on November 9, 2008. Suri was killed by his aide Bhanu Kiran on January 4, 2011 in Hyderabad over a property dispute.

From gold mines to wind power, Ramagiri grapples with fluctuating fortunes

ANANTAPUR: Ramagiri mandal of the erstwhile Anantapur district was once a thriving hub of opportunity. Known initially for its gold mines and later as a pioneer of wind energy in Rayalaseema region, the small town has experienced both, the highs of innovation and the lows of industrial collapse. Today, it stands as a poignant reminder of how rapidly fortunes can change. The golden era Ramagiris story began with its famed gold mines, which provided livelihood to hundreds of local workers. Villagers flocked to the area, eager to partake in its promise of economic prosperity. However, by the 1980s, the gold mines were shut down, and many employees were relocated to the Kolar Gold Fields (KGF). Others accepted voluntary retirement or moved away, leaving the towns golden identity behind. Despite the shift, Ramagiri continues to be remembered as the land of Ramagiri Gold Mines. The winds of change In the 1990s, a new chapter began when the government identified Ramagiri as a prime location for renewable energy development. Its open landscape and consistent winds made it an ideal site for wind farms. By 1994, windmills were erected with a combined capacity of 51.74 MW, making Ramagiri a leader in the wind energy sector in Anantapur. The towering wind turbines soon became a symbol of progress, attracting visitors and companies alike. For the youth, these projects offered employment as operators, supervisors, and maintenance workers. At its peak, the wind farms produced 30 lakh units of electricity annually, powering the region and creating a thriving ecosystem of renewable energy. The fall of wind energy But the success was short-lived. By the early 2000s, a combination of reduced wind speeds, aging equipment, and high maintenance costs led to a decline in energy production. The expiry of Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and unfavourable government policies exacerbated the issue, forcing many companies into financial losses. Gradually, operations ceased, and several companies dismantled their windmills. From an initial capacity of 51.74 MW, production plummeted to just 6 MW, leaving hundreds of workers unemployed. Impact on the community The economic downturn hit Ramagiris residents hard. Families dependent on windmill jobs faced severe financial hardships. Naga Raju, a former windmill operator, said, After working for over 18 years, we were suddenly left jobless. The company shut down suddenly. With children still in school and no steady income, I had to take up odd jobs to make ends meet. Many families in Ramagiri are in a similar situation, struggling to survive. The loss of wind energy operations not only impacted the livelihood of individuals but also erased a part of Ramagiris identity as a hub of innovation and development. While some companies dismantled their wind power infrastructure, a few, like Deccan Cements and NILE, still produce limited electricity. As Ramagiri grapples with its changing fortunes, its residents are hopeful of new opportunities. Many are calling for government intervention to attract industries or initiate programmes that can revive the regions economy.

Guntur, Krishna and West Godavari districts identified as high-risk flood zones in State

VISAKHAPATNAM: Guntur, Krishna and West Godavari districts in Andhra Pradesh have been identified as high-risk flood-prone areas, according to a recent report titled District-level Climate Risk Assessment for India: Mapping Flood and Drought Risks Using the IPCC Framework. The report categorises Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, East Godavari, Prakasam, Kurnool, Anantapur and Nellore as medium flood risk zones, while Visakhapatnam, Kadapa, and Chittoor fall under the low-risk category. The report also highlights that Visakhapatnam, Guntur, Prakasam and Kurnool are among the districts facing a high risk of drought. Anantapur, Kadapa, Chittoor, Krishna, East Godavari, West Godavari, Vizianagaram and Srikakulam are classified under medium drought risk, with Nellore being the only district under low drought risk. This detailed assessment, released on December 13, 2024, at IIT Delhi, provides an in-depth analysis of flood and drought risks across 698 districts in India. It was developed by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi, IIT Guwahati and CSTEP (Centre for Study of Science, Technology and Policy) Bengaluru, with support from the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC). The study noted that the development of risk maps for floods and droughts facilitates comparative analysis of districts within a State based on standardised indicators. These maps, it stated, encompass flood and drought hazards, the degree of exposure to these hazards, and overall vulnerability, fostering a holistic understanding of climate risks. By determining the components of flood and drought risks, the report added, policymakers can uncover the relative contributions of hazards, exposure, and vulnerability within each district. The report further stated that both State and Central governments face mounting pressure to deliver drought and flood assistance due to the rising frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. Risk assessments, such as those presented in the report, enable governments to prepare proactively by allocating resources, deploying staff, and designing programmes to build resilience in districts most affected by floods and droughts. Additionally, the report highlighted that hazard-specific risk profiles at the district level can help identify areas requiring urgent attention. It noted that these profiles enable policymakers to identify entry points and interventions, thereby focusing efforts on critical districts to mitigate the impacts of climate hazards.

Satya Sai SP launches annual sports meet

Anantapur: Satya Sai district SP V. Rathna observed that sports and games foster camaraderie and a cheerful atmosphere among staff, promoting a healthy lifestyle. She inaugurated the police annual sports and games meet of Satya Sai district at the police parade grounds in Puttaparthi on Wednesday. Satya Sai district collector Chethan formally launched the event by hoisting the flag and lighting the ceremonial lamp. The Collector and SP marked the commencement of the meet by participating in the opening activities on the grounds. A total of 150 police personnel from various categories are competing in eight different events as part of the annual gathering.

AP High Court grants bail to five convicts in Paritala Ravindra murder case

Anantapur: The Andhra Pradesh High Court on Wednesday granted bail to five individuals serving life imprisonment for their involvement in the 2005 murder of former minister Paritala Ravindra. The five convicts have been in prison, including time in judicial custody, for the past 18 years following their sentencing by the Anantapur district sessions court. According to sources, the convicts are Panduga Narayana Reddy (A-3), Rekamaiah (A-4), Ranganaikulu (A-5), Vadde Konda (A-6), and Obi Reddy (A-8). The main accused, Maddelacheruvu Suri alias Gangula Suryanarayana Reddy, was killed by his close associate Bhanu, while another accused, Moddu Sreenu, was murdered by a co-prisoner in Anantapur district prison. Paritala Ravindra was shot dead on January 24, 2005, at the Telugu Desam office at Ramanagar in Anantapur. The decades-long factional feud between the Paritala and Gangula families has claimed many lives on both sides, including family heads. This violent rivalry, which spanned over three decades, extended to Hyderabad and involved the use of explosives such as TV bombs, car bombs, and ice cream bombs, resulting in the deaths of innocent people. After 18 years of imprisonment, the High Court granted bail to the five convicts in the Paritala Ravindra murder case.

Police rescue six persons from mangled lorry cabin in Anantapur district

AP Permits 11 Premium Liquor Stores in 9 Districts

VIJAYAWADA: The Andhra Pradesh government has given permission to set up 11 premium liquor stores in nine districts. The government on Tuesday directed the prohibition and excise department to issue gazette notification district-wise for this purpose, covering the municipal corporation limits of Vijayawada (NTR) and Visakhapatnam, two each; while Rajahmundry (East Godavari), Kakinada, Nellore, Kadapa, Anantapur, Kurnool and Guntur will have one each. District prohibition and excise superintendents would issue the gazette notifications from Tuesday evening. A non-refundable application fee of Rs 15 lakh would have to be paid. Excise sources said the last date for applications is December 31. The licence for the premium stores is likely to be issued in January, 2025. No permission will however be given to consume liquor in premium stores. The district-level committee will comprise the excise deputy commissioner, excise assistant commissioner and district prohibition and excise officer. It would scrutinise the applications to ascertain the suitability of the proposed location and whether there is compliance with all the norms. Also, the financial capability of the applicants will be checked by verifying his/her IT returns etc. The committees will forward the applications to the excise commissioner, who will verify them and forward to the state government with a recommendation to give or not give licence for the premium liquor stores. The government will set up an evaluation committee to further subject the applications to scrutiny. Based on its recommendations, the government will give the final nod. The selected entities should pay a Rs 1 crore licence fee. It will go up by 10 per cent every year for five years.

9 Kadapa YSRC corporators may join Telugu Desam

Anantapur: A group of YSRC corporators of the Kadapa Municipal Corporation (KMC) have reportedly decided to quit the party and join the ruling Telugu Desam on grounds of differences between them and mayor Suresh Babu and the YSRCP in-charge for Kadapa. It is learnt Kadapa MP Y.S. Avinash Reddy made efforts to convince the corporators about not quitting the party. The compromise formula he suggested has not worked, as about nine corporators are planning to join the TDP in presence of Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu in a day or two. Kadapa TD MLA Madhavi and Telugu Desam politburo member R. Srinivasulu Reddy have been active in luring YSRC corporators into the TD fold following a dispute between the TD MLA and the mayor at a KMC meeting. Corporation officials reportedly did not put a chair for the TD MLA on the dais a few days ago, which led to a heated argument between the YSRC mayor and the MLA. This is when the TD decided to take advantage of the differences between the YSRC corporators and the mayor. Following this, the TD in-charge of Kadapa assembly constituency got in touch with the corporators and invited them into the ruling party. TD leaders are preparing to move a no-confidence motion against the mayor, which will require at least 25 corporators to vote in favour of the motion. Telugu Desam leaders feel luring YSRC corporators into the TD fold will make their no-confidence motion successful. However, Kadapa MP Avinash Reddy is firm on maintaining his hold in Kadapa Municipal Corporation by countering ruling TDs moves in the coming days.

Human rights violations in Bastar require extensive reporting: Malini Subramaniam

ANANTAPUR: Award-winning journalist Malini Subramaniam highlighted the widespread human rights violations in Bastar, which have been normalised by both the media and society. Subramaniam, who has been reporting from Chhattisgarh for over a decade, emphasised the complete suspension of law and rights in the region affected by the Maoist movement. She described how Aadivasis, dependent on forests for their livelihood, face restrictions on their freedom of movement, as the police curb their activities under the pretext of combating Maoists. Subramaniam expressed concern that brutal incidents of violence, illegal detentions, and extrajudicial killings of Aadivasis are rarely reported in the media. Local journalists are pressured to remain silent. To the outside world, Chhattisgarh seems fine due to developmental projects, but the real question is: Who benefits from them?, she remarked, urging for greater attention to the plight of indigenous people. SN Sahu, Officer on Special Duty to former President KR Narayanan, discussed the pervasive caste discrimination that even reaches the highest levels of government. He pointed out that even the former President Narayanan, faced caste-based discrimination. Caste is a disease. A caste census is essential to measure the extent of its spread. If we conduct censuses for animals, is it too much to ask for one to understand the marginalisation of certain groups? he questioned. Kopparthi Venkata Ramana Murthy, a retired history professor and writer, also spoke on the impact of NEP 2020, warning that it is steering towards the corporatisation of education, which could make it inaccessible for marginalised communities. The conference, chaired by S Jeevan Kumar of the HRF, attracted more than 300 people.

Bi-State HRF conference concludes in Anantapur

Award-winning independent journalist Malini Subramaniam called for extensive reportage on human rights violations at Bastarin Chhattisgarh

Doubling works cause train cancellations in Nandyal district

Kurnool : Due to the ongoing doubling work on the Panyam, Bugganapalle, and Krishnammukone railway line, several trains have been cancelled and some have been diverted from 16th to 27th of this month, said Guntakal Railway DRM Vijaykumar. He informed that the Guntur-Dhone (17228) and Dhone-Guntur (17227) trains have been cancelled. It was also announced that the Puri-Yesvantpur (22883) train on the 20th of this month and the Yesvantpur-Puri (22884) train on the 21st have been diverted. He stated that the Howrah-Yesvantpur (22831) train on the 18th and 25th of this month is being diverted via Nandyal, Erragunntla, Guntakal, and Anantapur. Similarly, the Yesvantpur-Howrah (22832) train on the 20th is being diverted via Anantapur, Guntakal, Erragunntla, and Nandyal. It was also mentioned that the Guntur-Aurangabad (17253) and Aurangabad-Guntur (17254) trains are running two hours late every day.

Rayalaseema tomato farmers in distress as prices slump

CHITTOOR/KURNOOL: Farmers in Rayalaseema, especially in the Pathikonda constituency, are in deep distress as tomato prices have plummeted dramatically. At the Pathikonda market, one of the regions largest wholesale hubs, farmers reported selling tomatoes for as low as Rs 1 per kg, despite official records showing a minimum price of Rs 8 per kg. Farmers allege rampant price manipulation by traders, accusing them of underreporting prices to pocket the difference while paying negligible amounts. Alleged collusion between traders and officials has further fuelled their despair. However, Pathikonda market yard secretary Karnalise refuted the allegations, claiming prices ranged from Rs 8 to Rs 18 per kg based on quality. Officials, including Pathikonda RDO Bharath Naik and Marketing Assistant Director Satyanarayana, visited the market following complaints. Joint Collector B Navya assured farmers of action, stating the Agricultural Marketing Department had procured 13 tonnes of tomatoes for distribution in Machilipatnam, Guntur, and Kurnool. She warned traders against violations and set a minimum price of Rs 4 per kg. Meanwhile, farmers in Punganur are grappling with similar challenges. Recent rains and crop diseases have damaged harvests, triggering steep price drops. On December 2, top-grade tomatoes fetched Rs 66.70 per kg, but by Monday, prices fell to Rs 17.40 per kg. Farmers lament that cultivating an acre of tomatoes costs over Rs 1.5 lakh, but current returns barely cover labour and transport expenses. A 15-kg box that sold for Rs 1,000 last week now fetches only Rs 100 to Rs 260. They attribute the crash to a surplus from Chhattisgarh and other regions flooding local markets. Traders are reportedly favouring tomatoes from Kadiri and Anantapur, sidelining local farmers. Poor infrastructure in markets like Palamaner adds to their woes, while traders selling directly to consumers at reduced rates, such as Rs 45 for 2.5 kg, exacerbate losses. Many farmers had hoped for better prices this season due to crop diseases in Tamil Nadu, anticipating Rs 1,000 per 15-kg box in the New Year. However, oversupply has dashed those hopes, leaving them trapped in a cycle of high input costs and dwindling returns.

SCR to run Sabarimala special train services from Dec.19

Hyderabad: The South Central Railway (SCR) is running Sabarimala special trains covering several important pilgrimage destinations enroute from December 19 to January 24. These trains are planned for the benefit of Ayyappa devotees visiting the Sabarimala shrine from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The devotees travelling by these special trains can conveniently plan to visit enroute pilgrimage centres of important temples in Kerala. The temples included in the circuit are the Sastha temples at Pandalam, Kulathupuzha, Aryankavu, Achankovil and Erumeli. Other famous temples covering enroute stations are Golden Temple at Vellore, Annamalaiyar Temple at Tiruvannamalai, Ranganatha Swamy Temple at Srirangam, Mariamman Temple at Samayapuram (Tiruchirappalli), Meenakshi Amman Temple at Madurai, Arulmigu Subramaniya Swamy Temple at, Thiruparankundram (Madurai), Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple at Palani (Dindigul), Andal Temple at Srivilliputhur (Virudhu Nagar) and Sri Krishna Temple at Punalur etc. Train No. 07175 / 07176 Secunderabad - Kollam - Secunderabad specials (four services): These Special trains will stop at Moula-Ali, Cherlapalli, Nalgonda, Miryalaguda, Nadikude, Piduguralla, Sattenapalli, Guntur, Tenali, Chirala, Ongole, Nellore, Gudur, Renigunta, Katpadi, Vellore, Tiruvannamalai, Villupuram, Vriddhachalam, Ariyalur, Srirangam, Tiruchchirappalli, Dindigul, Madurai, Virudunagar, Tenkasi, Sengottai and Punalur stations in both the directions. Train No. 07173 / 07174 Kakinada Port Kollam Kakinada Port specials (six services): Enroute, these special trains will stop at Kakinada Town, Samalkot, Rajahmundry, Nidadavolu, Tanuku, Bhimavaram Town, Akividu, Kaikaluru, Gudivada, Vijayawada, Tenali, Chirala, Ongole, Nellore, Gudur, Renigunta, Tirupati, Chittoor, Katpadi, Jolarpettai, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Podanur, Palakkad, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam, Ettumanur, Kottayam, Tiruvalla, Chengannur and Kayankulam stations in both the directions. Train No. 07177 Vijayawada Kollam Special (three services): These special trains will stop at Guntur, Narasaraopet, Donakonda, Markapur Rd, Giddalur, Diguvametta, Nandyal, Koilakuntla, Jammalamadugu, Proddatur, Yerraguntla, Kadapa, Rajampet, Renigunta, Tirupati, Chittoor, Katpadi, Jolarpettai, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Podanur, Palakkad, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam, Ettumanur, Kottayam, Tiruvalla, Chengannur and Kayankulam stations. Train No. 07178 Kollam Kakinada Town Special (three services): These special trains will stop at Kayankulam, Chengannur, Tiruvalla, Kottayam, Ettumanur, Ernakulam, Aluva, Thrissur, Palakkad, Podanur, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, Jolarpettai, Katpadi, Chittoor, Tirupati, Renigunta, Rajampet, Kadapa, Yerraguntla, Proddatur, Jammalamadugu, Koilakuntla, Nandyal, Diguvametta, Giddalur, Markapur Rd, Donakonda, Narasaraopet, Guntur, Vijayawada, Eluru, Tadepalligudem, Rajahmundry and Samalkot stations. Train No. 07175 / 07176 Secunderabad - Kollam - Secunderabad Specials (six services): These special trains will stop at Moula-Ali, Cherlapalli, Nalgonda, Miryalaguda, Nadikude, Piduguralla, Sattenapalli, Guntur, Tenali, Chirala, Ongole, Nellore, Gudur, Renigunta, Katpadi, Vellore, Tiruvannamalai, Villupuram, Vriddhachalam, Ariyalur, Srirangam, Tiruchchirappalli, Dindigul, Madurai, Virudunagar, Sivakasi, Rajapalaiyam, Tenkasi, Sengottai and Punalur stations in both the directions. Train No. 07179 Kakinada Town Kollam Special (two services): These special trains will stop at Samalkot, Rajahmundry, Tadepalligudem, Eluru, Vijayawada, New Guntur, Tenali, Chirala, Ongole, Nellore, Gudur, Renigunta, Tirupati, Chittoor, Katpadi, Jolarpettai, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Podanur, Palakkad, Thrissur, Aluva and Ernakulam Town, Ettumanur, Kottayam, Tiruvalla, Chengannur and Kayankulam stations. Train No. 07180 Kollam Guntur Special (two services): These special trains will stop at Kayankulam, Chengannur, Tiruvalla, Kottayam, Ettumanur, Ernakulam Town, Aluva, Thrissur, Palakkad, Podanur, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, Jolarpettai, Katpadi, Chittoor, Tirupati, Renigunta, Guntur, Nellore, Ongole, Chirala and Tenali stations. Train No. 07181 Guntur Kollam Special (three services): These special trains will stop at Narasaraopet, Donakonda, Markapur Rd, Giddalur, Diguvametta, Nandyal, Bethamcherla, Dhone, Gooty, Anantapur, Dharmavaram, Kadiri, Madanapalle, Piler, Pakala, Chittoor, Katpadi, Jolarpettai, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Podanur, Palakkad, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam Town, Ettumanur, Kottayam, Tiruvalla, Chengannur and Kayankulam stations. Train No. 07182 Kollam Kakinada Town Special (one service): These special trains will stop at Kayankulam, Chengannur, Tiruvalla, Kottayam, Ettumanur, Ernakulam Town, Aluva, Thrissur, Palakkad, Podanur, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, Jolarpettai, Katpadi, Chittoor, Pakala, Piler, Madanapalle, Kadiri, Dharmavaram, Anantapur, Gooty, Dhone, Bethamcherla, Nandyal, Diguvametta, Giddalur, Markapur Rd, Donakonda, Narasaraopet, Guntur, Vijayawada, Eluru, Tadepalligudem, Rajahmundry and Samalkot stations. Train No. 07185 Kollam Guntur Special (two services): These Special trains will stop at Kayankulam, Chengannur, Tiruvalla, Kottayam, Ettumanur, Ernakulam Town, Aluva, Thrissur, Palakkad, Podanur, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, Jolarpettai, Katpadi, Chittoor, Pakala, Piler, Madanapalle, Kadiri, Dharmavaram, Anantapur, Gooty, Dhone, Bethamcherla, Nandyal, Diguvametta, Giddalur, Markapur Rd, Donakonda and Narasaraopet, stations. Train No. 07183/07184 Narsapur Kollam - Narsapur Special (Four services): These special trains will stop at Palakollu, Bhimavaram Jn, Bhimavaram Town, Akividu, Kaikaluru, Gudivada, Vijayawada, Guntur, Narasaraopet, Markapur Rd, Giddalur, Diguvametta, Nandyal, Koilakuntla, Jammalamadugu, Proddatur, Yerraguntla, Kadapa, Rajampet, Renigunta, Tirupati, Chittoor, Katpadi, Jolarpettai, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Podanur, Palakkad, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam Town, Ettumanur, Kottayam, Tiruvalla, Chengannur and Kayankulam stations in both the directions. These special trains consist of first AC, 2AC, 3AC, sleeper class and general second-class coaches.

YSRCP protests in Kurnool, Nandyal and Anantapur

Indian Army Havildar Subbaiah laid to rest with full military honours

ONGOLE: Indian Army Havildar VV Subbaiah, who died in a landmine blast while on patrol at the Poonch sector along the Line of Control (LoC), was laid to rest with full military honours at Narpala village in Anantapur district on Thursday. Subbaiah, from Raavipadu village of Prakasam district, demonstrated extraordinary courage during the incident. Realising he had stepped on a landmine, he alerted his 30 teammates by shouting Go back! His warning saved their lives, though he succumbed to the explosion moments later. The martyrs mortal remains arrived at Narpala in the wee hours, where a crowd organised a grand procession. They escorted the army vehicle chanting slogans like Bharat Mata Ki Jai and Amar Jawan Amar Rahe. The final rites were performed in his familys agricultural field. His mother, Galemma, wife Leela, son, daughter, and other relatives bid a tearful farewell. Army officials paid respects, offering a last salute and presenting the National Flag and military insignias to Subbaiahs wife.

Andhra Pradesh to provide citizen services via WhatsApp

VIJAYAWADA: Andhra Pradesh will be the first State in the country to introduce delivery of citizen services through WhatsApp, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu announced on Tuesday. Addressing a gathering at the Collectors Conference held at the Secretariat, Naidu noted, Services provided on WhatsApp should be user-friendly. Whenever new technologies are used, there will be some problems. We should resolve them and move forward. Officials informed Naidu that citizens will soon be able to raise grievances via WhatsApp. Even if complainants cannot type their grievance, they can send a voice message instead, they explained. IT and RTG (Real Time Governance) Minister Nara Lokesh pointed out that any certificate can be easily received through WhatsApp without political recommendations. He highlighted that the United Arab Emirates is the only country where citizen services are delivered through WhatsApp. The Chief Minister wants governance to be streamlined and 153 citizen services are being proposed to be delivered through WhatsApp, he said. Naidu exhorted collectors to resolve grievances with a humane approach. Directing the officials to set a target of zero pendency, he said inspections will be conducted to check if complaints were being redressed. Find effective solutions to peoples grievances, CM directs Dist Collectors As many as 1.29 lakh grievances have been recorded since July, with 90% accounting to Revenue, Police, Municipal, and Panchayat departments. If we solve them, we solve the problem of pendency, Naidu added. He assured the officials that legal help and counselling will be provided to those raising grievances so that litigation comes down considerably. Observing that satisfaction among the people was low despite the high percentage of grievance redressal, the Chief Minister remarked, This means that you (bureaucrats) are attempting, but are not giving public the right solution. This mismatch could lead to mistrust. Change visible in State Asserting that people first is the motto of the TDP-led NDA government, and Health, Wealth, Happiness is its slogan, Naidu reiterated that the legislators are servants of people and not feudal lords. Emphasising that the State has witnessed change in the past six months since the new government took charge, he noted, From the first collectors conference to the second one today, change is visible. Darkness had pervaded. But today, rays of light have started penetrating through the darkness. Underscoring the need for hard work, he said, I believe that every crisis is an opportunity. How we overcome it is a matter of leadership. Stating that the Indian Constitution has given people the right to vote, saving the nation from turbulence witnessed in Syria and Bangladesh, Naidu remarked, In India, peoples vote is the weapon to bring change. Stressing that the State has embarked on the path to recovery, the Chief Minister pointed out that his government was able to pay salaries and pensions in time and streamline the defunct departments, despite the legacy of Rs 10 lakh crore debt inherited from the previous YSRCP regime. District Collectors play a crucial role in bringing everything on to the right track. Collectors and other senior officials should give top priority to our policies to implement P4 (Public-Private-Peoples Partnership), ensure zero poverty, create jobs, promote population growth, conserve water, and improve agriculture and allied sectors with the slogan of less investment and more profit, he said. Alleging that anti-social activities such as land grabbing, liquor mafia, illegal sand mining, ganja cultivation, and smuggling of red sanders and PDS rice were at the peak under the previous administration, Naidu directed District Collectors to uproot all these evils. Any person causing harm to the brand name of Andhra Pradesh should not be excused, he instructed the officials and told them to work towards restoring the States credibility. Rs 4 lakh crore investments to create four lakh jobs On Speed of Doing Business, he called upon officers to be proactive, as investors have many options. We are monitoring every collector. You need to prove yourselves. I have served as Chief Minister four times, but have never saw such problems, he said, adding that district collectors must compete with one another so as to achieve expected results. Elaborating on what the government has done in the past six months, Naidu said seven white papers have been published, 20 polices were released and a vision document will be unveiled to give a sense of way forward for the people. Now, Rs 4 lakh crore investment has come, which will create four lakh jobs. Amaravati is back on track with Rs 31,000 crore finance mobilised. Additionally, the Centre is extending Rs 12,157 crore for the Polavaram Irrigation Project, which will be completed by 2027. We have set month-wise targets to achieve the target, he explained. Mega Parent-Teacher meeting every year With regards to the Mega DSC, the Chief Minister stressed that new teachers must be ready to work by the time schools reopen for the next academic year. We have decided that the Mega Parent-Teacher meeting will be an annual event, he declared. Announcing that the State government will unveil Vision-2047 document on December 13, he said transforming the State into a knowledge society will lead to progress, sustainable development, and peoples perception. Further, he called on Collectors to find ways to reduce the cost of production in agriculture. He also outlined the need to reduce logistic costs from 14% to 8% -- which is the national average. The Chief Minister pointed out that a rise in GSDP would increase the States finances. He also exhorted the officials to encourage adoption of electric vehicles, solar and wind energy solutions to achieve 100% clean villages. Rationalisation of 1.23 lakh village/ward functionaries Reviewing Grama and Ward Sachivalayams (GSWS), the Chief Minister called for the rationalisation of 1.23 lakh village and ward functionaries. He also urged officials to take up an exercise for issuing Aadhaar cards to 10 lakh children on a war-footing. When some of the Collectors complained about defunct machines, the Chief Minister assured them that the government would release Rs 20 crore for the same. The Chief Minister also pointed out that linking of citizen information with banks must be done for effective distribution of benefits and compensation. After the Budameru deluge, we had problems transferring compensation to many citizens, he said. It was decided that the issue will be taken up with bankers during the SLBC (State Level Bankers Committee) meeting and seek information on bank accounts only to transfer government benefits. CM sets 50% growth target for Vision-2047 Naidu said the growth rate target in Vision Andhra-2047 document has been set at 50% and directed all Collectors to strive for the same through innovative thinking, planning and execution. Noting that the current GSDP is less than $3,000, the Chief Minister said this should go up to $42,000 in another 23 years as formulated in the Vision Document. Mentioning that the GDDP (Gross District Domestic Product) of Visakhapatnam in 2022-23 stood at Rs 1,19,268 crore, he felt that the industry and service sector will play a crucial role in achieving the target of Rs 2,64,781 by 2028-29. The current GDDP of Tirupati is Rs 67,487 crore and it is estimated to reach Rs 1,69,469 crore as it has several logistic opportunities, considering its proximity to Krishnapatnam, Sri City, Nellore, and Chennai, he noted. Stating that Anantapur, Kurnool, and Kadapa were once considered the most backward, he said these districts have now been developed because horticulture crops have been encouraged. However, East Godavari, which was once considered the most developed district, has now turned into a backward area as there are no industries and no development in the service sector, he added.

Experts panel suggests replacement of all TB Dam gates

Anantapur: An Experts Committee on safety of the Tungabhadra (TB) Dam has proposed replacement of all crest gates of the dam. This is expected to require a budget of 256 crore. As per the arrangement for this interstate dam, Karnataka will share 55 per cent of the cost, while the combined Andhra Pradesh needs to contribute 45 per cent of the expenditure for fixing new gates. According to experts, replacement of gates can be taken up only during the dry season. For the purpose, the Tungabhadra Board should be ready in advance before the coming summer. Incidentally, several experts suggest that replacement of the TB Dam crest gates must take place in a phased manner, instead of replacing them all at once. The lifespan of the gates had been estimated at 45 years. However, the gates have not been changed even though an additional 25 years have passed. The delay is believed to have led to the 19 th gate of the Tungabhadra Dam getting washed away four months ago, leading to a huge loss of water into the river. Teams of engineers and experts replaced the gate within a few weeks of it getting washed away. A senior engineer of the TB Dam said the present storage of water in the dam is 100 TMC feet. It is being released through the high level and low level main canals for irrigation and power generation purposes. It is up to the AP and Karnataka governments to take a decision on when to take up the replacement of the 32 gates and in what manner. The gates have already outlived their estimated life by 25 years. Sources told Deccan Chronicle that the Tungabhadra Dam is spending huge amounts on maintenance of gates every year. This has reportedly been a source of income for a section of those in authority.

Devotees Reaching Tamil Nadu Temple Told to Follow Safety Guidelines

Anantapur: The Tamil Nadu police has urged the AP police to advise caution to devotees from the state reaching the Arunachaleswara Temple in Tiruvannamalai for the Maha Deepam and Giri Pradakshina on December 13. In view of the heavy rush, devotees flooding Tiruvannamalai should strictly follow the safety guidelines set by the temple, a TN police advisory to AP police said. Large crowds of devotees from AP are visiting Tiruvannamali to participate in the 12km long Giri Pradakshinam and the Maha Deepam programme. Satya Sai district SP, V Rathna, said special buses from Satya Sai, Tirupati and Chittoor and APSRTC buses will be allowed to park at two temporary bus stands in AKS Nagar area near the Tiruvannamalai Bypass Road. In addition, 13 temporary car-parking slots were set up on Vellore Road. AP vehicles should park in the permitted places to avoid traffic inconvenience, the advisory said. The temple is providing free buses from the parking places to the Arunachaleswara shrine. Devotees can get route map links after sending a message to Whatsapp number 9363622330 of Tiruvannamalai police. The TN police also directed the devotees not to lit deepams at the four main gopurams of the temple, as part of a safety control.

Cyclonic Low-pressure system approaches AP coast

Visakhapatnam: A low-pressure area over the southeast Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify into a depression within the next 48 hours. The system is moving from Sri Lanka toward Tamil Nadu, bringing rainfall to coastal regions and the Rayalaseema area starting on Thursday. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has been tracking the system, with the upper air cyclonic circulation extending to mid-tropospheric levels, indicating a potentially complex weather pattern. Residents in North Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam should prepare for intermittent weather conditions. From December 11-12, scattered light to moderate rainfall is expected in districts including Parvathipuram Manyam, Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, and others. The weather is forecasted to dry out between December 13-15, providing a brief respite. However, rainfall is predicted to resume in isolated areas from December 16-17. South Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema regions are expected to face more intense weather conditions. Thunderstorms with lightning are forecasted for isolated locations, particularly in districts like SPSR Nellore, Chittoor, and Tirupati. Weather alerts have been issued for various districts in the region. SPSR Nellore, Chittoor, Tirupati, and Annamayya are expected to experience heavy rainfall and thunderstorms from December 11-12, with potentially significant precipitation and severe weather conditions. Meanwhile, Sri Sathya Sai, Anantapuramu, Nandyal, and YSR Districts are warned about isolated thunderstorms with lightning, specifically anticipated on December 12.

Minister Lauds Army Jawans Heroic Sacrifice

Kurnool: Social welfare minister Dr. Dola Sri Bala Veeranjaneya Swamy expressed profound grief over the demise of Army jawan Varikuntla Subbaiah, a resident of Prakasam district, who lost his life in a landmine explosion in the Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir. Subbaiah, from Ravipadu in Cumbum mandal, died while on duty, and his family received the news from Army officials on Tuesday. His body is being transported to Narpala in Anantapur district for the final rites. The minister described Subbaiah's death as a significant loss, commending his heroic sacrifice in saving the lives of 30 fellow soldiers. He extended heartfelt condolences to Subbaiah's family, stating that his bravery and selflessness were inspiring and a source of pride for the entire nation.

Two-day HRF State Conference in Anantapur from Dec 14

Dump yard-free urban areas in Andhra Pradesh within 10 months: Minister Narayana

GUNTUR: The State government, under the leadership of Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, is striving to free urban areas in Andhra Pradesh from dump yards by October 2025, said Minister for Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MAUD) P Narayana. He visited the solid waste management plant at Kondaveedu in Chilakaluripet constituency, Palnadu district on Tuesday. The plant, operated by Jindal Group, converts municipal solid waste into electricity and produces bricks from the ash. The Minister, along with local MLA Prathipati Pulla Rao, Swachha Andhra Corporation Chairman K Pattabhi Ram, and Guntur Municipal Corporation (GMC) Commissioner P Srinivasulu, reviewed the plants operations. The plant handles 1,200 tonnes of waste daily from three municipal corporations -- including Vijayawada, Guntur, and Mangalagiri-Tadepalli -- and six municipalities: Tenali, Sattenapalle, Narasaraopet, Chilakaluripet, Bapatla, and Ponnur. Highlighting the plants efficiency, Narayana emphasised that sustainable waste management can significantly contribute to clean energy production. He also announced that plans to set up new plants in Nellore-Gudur and Kakinada-Rajahmundry corridors, and between Kadapa, Kurnool, and Anantapur are underway. These projects aim to manage 6,890 tonnes of municipal waste generated daily across the State. Further, he explained that the cost of treating one tonne of garbage is currently between Rs 500 to Rs 750, emphasising the importance of efficient waste transportation and treatment to reduce expenses. He noted that a single facility could serve municipalities and areas within a 50 to 60 km radius, significantly streamlining waste management efforts. Plants in Kondaveedu and Visakhapatnam currently process 2,169 tonnes of waste daily, the MAUD Minister pointed out. Elaborating on decisions taken by the TDP-led NDA government between 2014 and 2019, he said, I studied solid waste management in countries like Singapore and Japan, where advanced systems are operational. Singapore has four such plants and 49 in Tokyo. Inspired by these models, we planned to set up 13 waste-to-energy plants in AP. Unfortunately, the previous YSRCP government abandoned most of these projects. As a result over 85 lakh metric tonnes of garbage piled up. He criticised the previous government for focusing solely on imposing garbage tax and burdening people without effectively addressing waste disposal issues. He highlighted that an amendment has already been made to eliminate the garbage tax. Swachha Andhra Corporation MD Anil Kumar Reddy, Jindal AP President (Operations) MV Chari, and GMC officials were present.

Pension funds misappropriated in Anantapur

ANANTAPUR: Allegations of pension fund misappropriation have surfaced in the undivided Anantapur district, implicating field-level officials in withholding money meant for beneficiaries. In April 2020, during the pandemic, the government sanctioned Rs 1,300 crore to provide Rs 1,000 to each ration cardholder. A directive issued on April 2, 2020, mandated officials to disburse withheld pension amounts alongside the sanctioned sum. However, local officials, including Panchayat Secretaries and Mandal Parishad Development Officers (MPDOs), allegedly exploited the process. Beneficiaries were reportedly asked for fingerprint verification under the pretext of surveys, but the funds were misappropriated. District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) records show that approximately Rs 2 crore in pension funds has been withheld since 2021. Although recent transfers of MPDOs and Panchayat Secretaries aimed to address the issue, efforts to identify the culprits remain inconclusive. Notices issued to current MPDOs have met with denials, with many claiming they were not involved during the relevant period, further delaying the recovery process. The total pending amount across the district stands at Rs 97,56,173. DRDA Project Directors Eshwarayya and Narasayya assured that reconciliation efforts are ongoing. We are recovering funds month by month and ensuring accountability.

Prakasam soldier dies after stepping on landmine in Jammus Poonch

ONGOLE: In a tragic incident on Monday, Indian Army Havildar Varikuntla Venkata Subbaiah (44), from Ravipadu village in Prakasam district, lost his life after stepping on a landmine planted by terrorists in the Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir. Subbaiah, serving in the 25th Rashtriya Rifles battalion, was on patrol duty at the border when the explosion occurred. The district Sainik Welfare Department confirmed that Subbaiah had married a woman from Anantapur and had two children. His family had moved to Anantapur a few years ago, while his mother still resides in Ravipadu village. The news of his death has deeply saddened the local community, particularly the families of army personnel in Cumbham and surrounding areas, many of whom are connected to the armed forces. Military authorities notified Subbaiahs family on Tuesday, and his mortal remains are expected to arrive in Anantapur in the coming days, where the family plans to conduct his last rites.

Face Wash and Go: Innovative Initiative to prevent accidents

Anantapur :Anantapur police have launched an innovative initiative called Face Wash and Go to reduce accidents on NH 44, especially during the peak hours of 3-4 am when drivers are prone to sleepiness. Police teams have been stopping vehicles during this time, directing drivers to get out and wash their faces as a simple but effective remedy to combat drowsiness and prevent major accidents on the highway. The initiative was introduced following three major accidents in Anantapur district that occurred during the early hours. After investigating the reasons behind these mishaps, SP P. Jagadish discovered that drivers were continuing to drive despite feeling sleepy, leading to accidents such as head-on collisions or being struck by other vehicles while crossing from state roads to the national highway. SP Jagadish, speaking to Deccan Chronicle, emphasized the importance of raising awareness among drivers. He said, We have directed police stations near National Highway roads to play an active role in educating drivers and providing water for them to wash their faces, helping to prevent accidents. Police teams are now stationed on NH 44 during the early hours, stopping vehicles and advising drivers to be more mindful, reminding them of the consequences of unsafe driving, and encouraging them to think about the safety of their families. Over 300 drivers, including those of buses, lorries, cars, and trucks, have participated in the Face Wash and Go initiative. SP Jagadish hopes that these small but effective steps will significantly reduce road mishaps during the early hours. He also mentioned that around 164 ATM centers near NH roads are regularly monitored by night beat teams to ensure safety.

Man found dead in Andhra theatre during 'Pushpa 2' screening

ANANTAPUR: A man was found dead under suspicious circumstances inside the Palace Cinema Theatre during a screening of the Pushpa 2 film in Rayadurgam town of Anantapur district. The incident has drawn criticism toward the theatre management for allegedly continuing the screening despite the fatality, sparking outrage among locals. The victim, identified as Madhyanappa, a father of four and a labourer from Udegolam village, had gone to watch the film in a reportedly intoxicated state. According to the police, Madhyanappa consumed more alcohol inside the theatre and was later found dead by cleaning staff around 6 pm, after the matinee show. Deputy Superintendent of Police Ravi Babu stated that it remains unclear when exactly he died. Family members, upon learning of his death, rushed to the theatre and were appalled to see the movie still being screened as his body lay unattended. The confrontation between the family and theater staff escalated into a heated argument, necessitating police intervention to halt the screening. A case has been registered under Section 194 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Act, and investigations are ongoing. This tragic event follows another incident tied to Pushpa 2 . During the films premiere on December 4 at Sandhya Theatre in Hyderabad, a stampede occurred when fans rushed to see actor Allu Arjun, who made an unannounced appearance. The chaos claimed the life of a 35-year-old woman and left her 13-year-old son hospitalized. Police have since filed cases against Allu Arjun and the theatre management for their roles in the overcrowding and poor safety measures. In response to the Hyderabad tragedy, Allu Arjun pledged Rs 25 lakhs to the deceased womans family and promised to cover the medical expenses of her son. However, the recurring incidents associated with the film have raised serious concerns about safety and management responsibilities during high-profile screenings.

Soldier From Prakasam Dies in Poonch

Kurnool: Varikuntla Subbaiah, 38, a soldier from Ravipadu village in Cumbum Mandal, Prakasam district, lost his life in the line of duty on Monday in the Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir. Subbaiah, who had served in the army for nearly 20 years, was conducting search operations when he accidentally stepped on a landmine, resulting in a fatal explosion. Subbaiah is survived by his wife, son, and daughter. Sub-inspector of Cumbum, B. Narasimha Rao, confirmed that Subbaiah's body will be brought to Narpala in Anantapur district, where his in-laws reside, as he had settled there. The family and villagers are awaiting his arrival for the final rites.

Halt trains at Anantapur, Gooty: MP to minister

Anantapur: As several trains are not being halted at Anantapur and other major stations in the district, Anantapur MP Ambika Lakshmi Narayana met the Union minister of state for Railways Veeranna Somanna in New Delhi on Monday. In his representation, the MP sought halts of several trains and highlighted the other problems faced by passengers. The MP sought the halts of Rajdhani Express and Yesvantpur-Latur Express to stop at Anantapur railway station. Gooty station needs the halts of Andhra Pradesh Sampark Kranti Express, which runs between Tirupathi and New Delhi, Kongu Express, CBE-Nizamuddin Weekly and Karnataka Sampark Kranti Express, which stops in Agra. He also requested the halt of the Dharmavaram - Machilipatnam train at Rayalacheruvu station to facilitate Yadiki mandal passengers. At Hindupur Railway station, the MP requested the stoppage of Vande Bharata Express for the convenience of the people of Hindupur. This stop would also be beneficial for passengers of the Penukonda and Madakasira areas. At Rayadurg Railway Station (South Western Railway), Tata Nagar to Yesvantpur, Mysore to Varanasi, Yesvantpur to Jaipur, Tirupathi - Dodahalli trains needed to stop. The MP sought the running of Kondaveedu Express (Machilipatnam to Yesvantpur) daily to facilitate regular travel for passengers from Anantapur and the extension of Narsapur Express (Dharmavaram to Vijayawada) up to Anantapur Station. Since there are no toilets on the MEMU Train (No.66524/66523), running between Hindupur and Bangalore, passengers have been facing considerable difficulty during the nearly three-hour journey. The MP requested the necessary upgrades made to the train coaches.

Kadapa MPs PA appears before cyber crime police

Anantapur: Kadapa MP Y.S. Avinash Reddy's personal assistant (PA), Raghava Reddy, appeared before the cybercrime police at the CCS police station in Kadapa on Monday. This follows notices issued by the Pulivendula police in connection with pending cases related to controversial social media posts. The Pulivendula police had earlier registered a case against Raghava Reddy after YSRC social media co-convener Varra Ravindra Reddy confessed to his involvement. Ravindra Reddy admitted to posting abusive content under the instructions of Raghava Reddy, who is also linked to the late Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy. Last month, the police issued notices and conducted searches for Raghava Reddy after he absconded. The High Court later granted him a stay against any serious police action until December 12. In response to the notices, Raghava Reddy, accompanied by advocate Obula Reddy, appeared at the CCS police station. He was interrogated by a police team led by Pulivendula DSP Murali Naik. Investigations are ongoing, and further action will depend on the findings of the inquiry.

Man Stabs Girl 11 Times for Refusing Marriage in Kadapa

Anantapur: A man attacked a girl and stabbed her 11 times after she refused to marry him at Kothapalli village in Vemula mandal in Kadapa district on Sunday. According to family members of the victim, Kullayappa of Kothapalli village had been harassing Sharmila of the same neighbourhood in the name of love. He remained persistent even after her refusal. Subsequently, he started threatening her. On Sunday, when Sharmila had been alone in the house, Kullayappa entered her house in a drunken state and attacked her with a knife. He stabbed her 11 times and fled when nearby people rushed the spot on hearing her cries. They shifted Sharmila to Vemula and later to the Pulivendula Government Hospital, where she is battling for her life. Family members of Sharmila have demanded stringent action against Kullayappa. Vemula police have registered a case. SP Vidyasagar Naidu said special teams have been formed to nab the accused

Anantapur MP Seeks ST Status for Boya Community

Anantapur: Anantapur MP Ambika Lakshmi Narayana has submitted a representation to the Registrar General of India (RGI), urging the acceleration of the process to include the Boya community from Andhra Pradesh in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) category. The Boya community, which has long been classified as Backward Classes (BC) in Andhra Pradesh, is recognised as Scheduled Tribes in Karnataka and other regions. Highlighting this disparity, Lakshmi Narayana emphasised the decades-old pending demand for their inclusion as STs in Andhra Pradesh. The MP met deputy director general Biswajith and additional registrar general Sunil Kumar to brief them on the issue. He informed them that the Andhra Pradesh government is committed to ensuring justice for the Boya community and noted that a resolution advocating for their tribal status was passed in 2017 during the Telugu Desam government. Telangana MP Etela Rajendar accompanied Lakshmi Narayana during the meeting to lend support to the cause.

Anantapur police drive against MV Act violations

Police have also conducted checks at 154 ATM centres and arrested a matka organiser and seized 1 lakh from him

Anantapur farmers 365-day kitchen garden is a model of self-sufficiency

ANANTAPUR: C Peddanna, a progressive farmer from Cherlopalli village in Rapthadu mandal, Anantapur district, has become an inspiring figure through his practice of natural farming, supported by his wife M Rajeshwari, a member of the Aadi Laxmi Self Help Group. Their dedication to sustainable living has not only transformed their own lives but also made them role models for others in the community. Together, they have created a 365-day kitchen garden at their home, a model of self-sufficiency and health that is inspiring others to adopt similar practices. Peddanna and Rajeshwari have fully embraced the idea of homegrown produce. They rely entirely on the vegetables, leafy greens, and medicinal plants cultivated in their kitchen garden for their sustenance, never purchasing these items from outside. Their garden includes a variety of plants, from essential vegetables to medicinal herbs like Ranapala, Aloe Vera, and Tulasi, which are used to treat various health issues without the need for chemical medications. Over the years, the couple have overcome health issues by consuming the produce from their garden, which is free of chemicals and pesticides. Their home, surrounded by greenery and medicinal plants, has become a symbol of health and well-being, drawing admiration from visitors. The couples commitment to natural farming has greatly improved their lifestyle, offering both physical health benefits and a sense of fulfilment from living in harmony with nature. Peddannas passion for farming began more than 15 years ago when he got involved with the Non-Pesticidal Management (NPM) Project. As a resource person, he travelled across Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh, promoting chemical-free farming practices and motivating women to adopt sustainable farming methods. His dedication to natural farming grew over time, and he now actively promotes the 365-day kitchen garden concept and the ATM (Agro-ecological Transformation Model) in Cherlopalli village. Peddanna uses just five cents of land to grow 15 different vegetables and leafy greens, alongside medicinal plants and fruit bearing trees. His kitchen garden has been self-sufficient, eliminating the need for external purchases. The surplus produce is shared with relatives, further reinforcing the communitys reliance on sustainable agriculture. He also grows betel leaves and cotton for his daily pooja rituals, demonstrating his commitment to living sustainably. Peddannas garden thrives with the help of natural bio-stimulants like Ghana Jeevamrutham and Drava Jeevamrutham. He practices mulching with neem tree leaves and groundnut husk to maintain soil health, retain moisture, and suppress weeds. His natural farming techniques have led to a remarkable demand for his produce, with items like methi selling out in minutes at the market. In addition to his home garden, Peddanna has also set up an ATM model on leased land, growing 14 crops with minimal investment and maximum returns. With his expansion plans, he aims to empower more farmers with eco-friendly farming methods that promote sustainability and health.

AP has 46,138 school dropouts; efforts on to enrol them back into schools

Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh has 46,138 school dropouts during the current academic year 202425. Efforts are on to enrol them back into schools. AP government has taken up an enrolment drive of Out-of-School Children by involving all stakeholder departments through the Consistent Rhythm App (CR App). In particular, it has roped in the then village / ward volunteers and village / ward secretariat staff members to identify the school dropouts. Accordingly, the school education department identified 2,10,917 children. The department of school education took up a special drive and enrolled 1,49,106 children back into the schools, with 63,473 continuing as school dropouts. In another spell of special campaign for enrolment of school dropouts, the school education authorities enrolled 17,335 school dropouts. With this, there are 46,138 school dropouts, who are yet to be enrolled in schools. District-wise, the school dropouts are: Alluri Sitarama Raju 2,250; Visakhapatnam 1,568; Anakapalli 531; Vizianagaram 665; Srikakulam 757; NTR 1,859; Krishna 927; Kakinada 2,585; Eluru 1,163; East Godavari 1,610; West Godavari 671; Konaseema 653; Manyam 330; Palnadu 2,919; Guntur 2,664; Prakasam 2,722; Nellore 5,076; Bapatla 1,778; Kurnool 3,789; Tirupati 2,559; Kadapa 2,401; Annamayya 1,540; Chittoor 1,697; Sri Sathya Sai 1,263; Nandyal 904 and Anantapur 1,257. In a bid to enrol these school dropouts, the Samagra Siksha authorities are running special training centres during 202425, along with seasonal hostels for the benefit of students whose parents migrate to other places in search of seasonal work. Seasonal hostels have already started in Krishna, Kurnool and NTR districts. School education authorities are, however, facing some tough challenges to bring back the dropouts back to schools, owing to socio-economic, cultural, traditional and health issues. Samagra Siksha project director B. Srinivasa Rao said, We are making all efforts to bring back the Out-of-School children to schools, even though identifying them is a big task.

Low-Pressure Over Bay of Bengal, Rains Expected in Andhra Pradesh

Visakhapatnam: A low-pressure area has formed over the southeast Bay of Bengal, as reported by the IMD on Saturday. This development is attributed to an upper-air cyclonic circulation extending to middle tropospheric levels, indicating a significant weather system. The IMD forecasts that this low-pressure system is likely to move west-north-westward and will become more pronounced over the next 24 hours. It is expected to continue on this trajectory, reaching the southwest Bay of Bengal off the coasts of Sri Lanka and Tamil Nadu by around December 11. Due to this system, lower tropospheric winds from the south-east and south-west are currently prevailing over Andhra Pradesh and Yanam. Regarding rainfall, the IMD has issued a weather warning for the next five days. No significant rain is expected in the first three days. However, on days four and five, thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are anticipated at isolated locations across South Coastal Andhra Pradesh (SCAP) and Rayalaseema. Heavy rainfall is likely in isolated areas of Rayalaseema during this period. The forecast impacts several districts in Andhra Pradesh, particularly in North Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam, including Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, East Godavari, and West Godavari. In South Coastal Andhra Pradesh, districts such as Krishna, Guntur, Prakasam, and Nellore are affected. Additionally, Rayalaseema will experience potential impacts in Chittoor, Kadapa, Anantapur, and Kurnool districts.

Tiruchanur Annual Brahmotsavams Concludes

Anantapur: The Tiruchanur Goddess Padmavati annual Brahmotsavams concluded with the Pushpa Yagam, held on temple premises. Devotees donated 4 tonnes of flowers, including 2 tonnes from Tamil Nadu, 1 tonne from Andhra Pradesh, and 1 tonne from Karnataka. Fourteen different flower varieties were used in the ceremony.

Pawan Kalyan for booking land encroachers under Goonda Act

Anantapur: Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan warned miscreants against encroaching lands belonging to schools, saying the Goonda Act will be applied against them. Addressing a parents-teachers meeting at the Municipal High School in Kadapa on Saturday, he told the gathering that he has received many complaints with regard to encroachment of school lands. The Deputy CM underlined that there is an urgent need for a special drive against encroachments in Kadapa district. Pawan Kalyan interacted with students of the municipal school in their classrooms and also had his midday meal with them. Later, addressing parents at a public meeting, the Deputy Chief Minister expressed shock that the district headquarters of Kadapa has been facing a drinking water problem for decades, even though two former chief ministers hailed from the district. Reacting to a plea in this regard by Kadapa MLA R. Madhavi, Pawan Kalyan assured that he will make efforts to tackle this issue. We have never neglected the works left pending by the previous government. We released Rs 45 lakh towards the pending water project for Pulivendula. We will solve the long-pending issue of drinking water, he observed.

Mega Parent Teachers meeting held across Kurnool, Anantapur and Nandyal districts

Two Vizag Jail Officers Suspended Over Mismanagement

Visakhapatnam: Two senior officers, posted at the Visakhapatnam Central Jail, were suspended following complaints that they failed to put a check on illegal activities inside the prison. Jail superintendent S. Kishore Kumar and additional executive officer M. Venkateshwarlu were suspended for their failure to check illegal activities inside the jail. Both the officers Kishore Kumar and Venkateshwarlu had been transferred to Anantapur and Nellore Central Jail respectively. But both have been told not to leave the headquarters until the completion of the probe. The decision to suspend the two officers was taken after the receipt of several complaints regarding the mismanagement inside the jail. The preliminary inquiry revealed that both the officers were callous in enforcing the shift duty for security guards.

Revenue sadassus from Friday in Nandyal, Kurnool and Anantapur districts

Sadassus are being organised at the villages to resolve the land disputes at the village-level itself, farmers can submit representations for redressal of disputes related to Sections, 22A lands, encroachments and freehold land

Roof Collapse in Anantapur Claims Three Lives

Anantapur: A tragic incident occurred in Kundurpi here when the roof of a house collapsed resulting in the deaths of three family members. According to the locals, the house had been weakened by the heavy rains over the past few days with rainwater accumulating on the roof. In the early hours of Wednesday the roof gave way leading to the deaths. The victims have been identified as Ganganna, Sridevi, and Sandhya.

Anantapur police deploy drones to tackle anti-social activities

Anantapur: Anantapur SP P. Jagadish has introduced drone technology to assist the police in curbing anti-social activities, even in remote areas. Thirty constables from various police stations in the district have been trained in drone operation. Recently, drones were used in Anantapur city and rural areas, yielding positive results as ganja peddlers and public drinkers fled upon spotting the drones during a trial. Speaking at a press conference, SP Jagadish demonstrated drone usage. He explained that he learned to operate the drone in just two minutes ahead of a visit by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu to Nemakel village. The drones have a range of up to 3 km, with clear visuals even in the dark using night vision mode. The police currently have three drones, with plans to expand their use to every police station. The drones have proven effective in deterring anti-social behaviour and can also assist in rescue operations during floods and other emergencies.

8 Bikes Seized in Yemmiganur

According to an officer from the transport department, in Bengaluru alone thousands of vehicles especially bikes and cars, including high-end ones, were seized in past few months for non-adherence to this rule. (Representational image) According to an officer from the transport department, in Bengaluru alone thousands of vehicles especially bikes and cars, including high-end ones, were seized in past few months for non-adherence to this rule. (Representational image) Kurnool: The Yemmiganur Sub-Division police conducted a cordon and search operation in Yemmiganur town on Tuesday, seizing eight two-wheelers without proper documentation or number plates. The teams conducted searches across Shakti Nagar, NTR Buildings, Shanti Nagar, Shivanna Nagar, Venkatapuram and Lakshmipet in the early hours of the day. Police officials issued a stern warning against engaging in illegal activities and the operation was led by Yemmiganur DSP Upendra Babu, with active participation from circle inspectors Srinivasulu, Ramanujulu, Manjunath, sub-inspectors, and other police personnel. Dhone police arrest scamster The Dhone police arrested Chanda Ramanjaneyulu, the key accused in a cryptocurrency fraud case, late on Monday. He allegedly defrauded 315 people across four districts, swindling approximately Rs 23 crore. The police have frozen Rs 2.45 crore from his bank account. Cases have been registered under Crime Number 320/2024, citing Sections 318(4), 316(3), and 316(5) of BNS 2023, as well as Section 5 of the AP Protection of Depositors of Financial Establishments Act, 1999. A resident of Padda Vaduguru in Anantapur district, Ramanjaneyulu has a history of involvement in similar crimes. He lured victims by promising returns of Rs 10,000 per month for every Rs 1 lakh invested. The scam affected people across Kurnool, Nandyala, Mahbubnagar, and Kadapa districts. Since 2021, Ramanjaneyulu is said to have gained public trust by posing as a representative of an organic herbal company before orchestrating the massive fraud.

Inter-state property offenders gang arrested, gold jewellery worth 22 lakh seized in Anantapur

The leader of the gang, Shaik Khaja Peera alias Khaja of Dharmavaram town in Sri Sathya Sai district, was earlier involved in 27 property offences, says SP

Women farmers as backbone of sericulture in AP

Visakhapatnam: Andhra Pradesh has emerged as the second-largest producer of silk in India, largely due to the active involvement of women farmers. Women are at the heart of sericulture -- from raising silkworms to selling precious cocoons. Retired deputy director of sericulture, Mohana Venkata Ramaraju, explained the scenario to Deccan Chronicle. Small and marginal farmers in drought-prone areas often rely on mulberry cultivation for their livelihood. An acre of mulberry cultivation can provide employment for five people throughout the year, he notes.Ramaraju adds, In many villages, the silk industry has shaped itself an agriculture-related cottage industry. The work associated with silkworms requires patience. This is why women make up 60 per cent of the workforce in this sector.Women farmers collect silk cocoons from the market, extract silk thread from them, twist the thread and sell it to weavers. Sericulture in AP is traditionally practised in the Chittoor, Anantapur, Kadapa and Kurnool regions. However, areas such as Kakinada, Prakasham, Eluru, Nellore, Guntur, Alluri Seetharama Raju, Anakapalle and Srikakulam also are involved in the industry. A significant number of women are involved in these.High-quality mulberry leaves are essential for producing quality silk cocoons. Women are largely engaged in mulberry cultivation. A single mulberry plant yields leaves for up to 15 years. This involves high profit with low investment. Mulberry can be cultivated in various soil types excluding black and clay soils. Assistant director of sericulture in Visakhapatnam, P Chandrajeevan, noted, Women in large numbers are now engaged in sericulture.Anakapalle district sericulture officer Rajendra Prasad noted that women are handling all the silkworm rearing works in Kodavatipudi village of Kotavartula mandal in Anakapalle.Two types of silk are produced in AP: Malabari and non-Malabari (Tussar) silk. Mulberry silk is derived from silkworms that feed on mulberry leaves, while non-mulberry Tussar silkworms consume Nalla Maddi and Veeru Maddi leaves. Women engaged in sericulture are experienced in cultivating these leaves. Sericulture officials stated, Women farmers are the backbone of our sericulture industry. Their dedication, patience and expertise ensure the success of this traditional and economically vital industry. It ensures high-quality silk production and contributes significantly to the state's economy.

RTA services through Vahana and Sarathi portal from tomorrow

Anantapur : Road transport authority department announced that RTA services can be obtained only through Vahana and Sarathi portal from December 3. The present e-Pragathi portal that was being used to issue driving licences and other services will be stopped from December 2. Anantapur deputy transport commissioner Veera Raju said the applicants to get driving licences and other transport related services can login through Vahana and Sarathi portal from December 3.

Three killed in road accident in Andhra Pradeshs Anantapur district

Police suspect poor visibility owing to the dense fog in the early morning hours had caused the accident

Anantapur: Three killed in car accident

Anantapur : Three people were killed and one injured in a car accident near Vidapanakallu in the district on Sunday. The accident occurred when the car they were traveling in lost control and hit a tree. Police suspect that fog may have been the cause of the accident. The victims who were doctors from Ballari were returning from a trip to Hong Kong.

UoH Professor Highlights Advantages of Digital Payments

The Personal Data Protection Bill requires a copy of sensitive personal data to be stored in India, and further prohibits cross-border transfers of critical personal data. (DC File Image) The Personal Data Protection Bill requires a copy of sensitive personal data to be stored in India, and further prohibits cross-border transfers of critical personal data. (DC File Image) Anantapur: Prof. Debashish Acharya from the School of Economics, University of Hyderabad, highlighted the RBIs digital currency ecosystem at a national seminar on Digital Transformation and the Future of Indias Economy, organised by the Indian Council for Social Science Research (ICSSR) at the Central University of Andhra Pradesh. In his keynote, Acharya discussed the advantages of digital payments over traditional cash, focusing on features like 24/7 automatic sweep-in and sweep-out systems. He stressed the importance of improving grievance redressal, educating the public, and building trust through secure infrastructure. He suggested that central bank digital currency (CBDC) could make payments more efficient, accessible, and reliable. The seminar also featured Prof. S.A. Kori, vice chancellor of the Central University of Andhra Pradesh, who commended the universitys academic progress. Prof. B. Sudhakar Reddy of ICSSR-SRC, Hyderabad, spoke on digital development in India, while Prof. M.D. Bavaiah from SIDBI-PMU, Telangana, addressed digital transformation for the MSME sector. A total of 74 papers from 14 states were presented, with notable participants including Prof. G. Ram Reddy and Prof. Rajendra Prasad.

TTD implements ban on political statements at Tirumala

Anantapur: Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has implemented a strict ban on making political statements or criticisms regarding Tirumala, following several incidents where political leaders used their visit to the holy site as a platform to criticise rival parties and leaders. In a recent board meeting, TTD unanimously resolved to take action against anyone violating this rule. The ban was implemented from Saturday, with the TTD making it clear that the spiritual climate and sanctity of the hill temple must be maintained by all. Meanwhile, TTD announced the implementation of a special darshan for locals from Tirupati, which will take place on every first Tuesday of the month, starting December 3. Local devotees from Tirupati rural, Tirupati urban, Chandragiri mandal, and Renigunta mandal can obtain tickets at special counters by presenting their Aadhaar cards, as announced by TTD chairman B.R. Naidu.

Rs 18,000 spent on social pension in 5 months. Andhra CM Chandrababu Naidu

Amaravati: The Andhra pradesh government has spent Rs 18,000 crore in the past five months towards social pension for 64 lakh beneficiaries, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said on Saturday. Addressing the gathering after participating in the pension distribution programme in Anantapur District, Naidu said wealth is being created by attracting investments into the state and the same would be distributed to people. In these five months, we have disbursed Rs 18,000 crore towards social pensions to 64 lakh people. We have increased the pension from Rs 3000 per month (during the previous YSRCP regime) to Rs 4000, he said. The CM further said his government is aiming to attract Rs 4 lakh crore investments creating four crore job opportunities in the next five months. Attacking the previous YSR Congress regime, he said the state plunged into Rs 10 lakh crore debt and the present NDA government is cleaning up the financial mess. Listing out the schemes launched after the TDP-led NDA government took over, Naidu said the government has already launched free LPG cylinders (up to three) to beneficiaries. According to him, so far 50 lakh people have booked cylinders under the scheme-Deepam-2. The CM said as promised during the run up to the assembly polls, the government has started supplying quality liquor at reduced prices.

Bandaru Sravani Sri Distributes Pensions Under NTR Bharosa Program

Anantapur: Singanamala MLA Bandaru Sravani Sri distributed pension money to elderly citizens, individuals with disabilities, and single women as part of the NTR Bharosa Pension Distribution Program. The event was held at Gourayya Kottalu Colony and R.D.T. High School in Bukkarayasamudram Mandal of Ananthapuram district. Addressing the gathering, MLA Sravani Sri criticized the previous government for failing to provide unclaimed pensions to the poor. She explained that under the current coalition government, if beneficiaries miss collecting one months pension, they receive two months pension the following month. Additionally, up to three months pension can be disbursed at once. If beneficiaries fail to claim their pensions even after this, they can reapply to renew their benefits, she said. Mandal TDP Convener Avvari Ashok, former ZPTC Ramalingareddy, and other leaders participated in the program.

Man gets lifer in rape case

Anantapur: Anantapur POCSO court on Friday sentenced life term imprisonment to T. Ramanjineyulu alias Mugodu over assaulting a minor girl at Putlur mandal headquarters in Anantapur district and directed the government to give compensation of Rs10.50 lakh to the victim's family. Sources said the six-year-old minor girl was playing in front of her house while her parents went to work and was under the care of her grandmother at Putlur. Ramanjineyulu lured the girl with the promise of chocolate and raped her after taking her into his house on July 7, 2020. The victims grandmother lodged a complaint at the Putlur police station, and the police arrested Ramanjineyulu. The POCSO court judge, Rajyalakshmi, pronounced the verdict on Friday after charges were proved against the accused and sentenced him to life imprisonment with a Rs 3,000 fine. The court also directed the government to pay Rs10.50 lakh as compensation to the victim's family. SP P. Jagadish appreciated the police team for securing justice for the victim's family.

Andhra Pradesh: 13-year-old boy murdered by uncle

Anantapur: A 13-year-old boy was brutally murdered after being abducted by his uncle from his school in Amidalagondi village, Madakasira mandal, Satyasai district. His body was later found near the Karnataka border. Police cracked the case within 24 hours and discovered the boys body in a deep forest area of Pavagada taluk, Karnataka, a few kilometers from the village. Sources revealed that the victim, Chethan Kumar, was an 8th-grade student at the government ZP High School in Amidalagondi. He was abducted on Thursday from the school premises by unknown individuals. When the boy did not return home by evening, his parents and teachers filed a complaint with the Madakasira police. Circle inspector Rajakumar and his team immediately initiated an investigation and reviewed CCTV footage from the area. During the analysis of the footage, teachers informed the police that a close relative had taken the boy from school. Tragically, his body was later discovered in the forest of Pavagada taluk with his throat slit using an axe, and a cloth stuffed in his mouth. Further investigations revealed that the boys uncle, Ashok, killed him over a family property dispute. According to sources, Venkata Swamy of Maruvapalli, the boys grandfather, has two wives. Chethan Kumar was the son of the first wife and lived in Amidalagondi. Ashok, the brother of Swamy's second wife Radhika, allegedly plotted the murder to prevent the first wifes family from claiming property. Police have detained Ashok and one of his close aides in connection with the crime.

Andhra Pradesh on Brink of Financial Collapse: Finance Minister

TDP MLA Payyavula Keshav. TDP MLA Payyavula Keshav. Kurnool: Finance minister Payyavula Keshav expressed grave concern about the state's financial condition, which he said is on the brink of collapse. He informed that the states debt has surged to Rs 10 lakh crore, forcing the government to take new loans merely to service the existing debt. The minister shared his views in Anantapur on Thursday, stating that the financial distress was a result of mismanagement under the YSRC government. He noted that the states income is barely sufficient to cover 99 per cent of employee salaries and pensions the state is now borrowing money to implement government schemes and fund development projects. Despite the current difficulties, Keshav defended borrowing, stating that loans taken would be invested in development and the subsequent income would be used for the welfare of the poor. However, he blamed the YSRC government's chaotic policies for worsening the financial condition. While efforts are being made to increase the revenue, it would take considerable time to address the debt burden left by the previous government. We are making new loans to pay interest on previous loans. However, I am confident that the alliance government will move ahead with its commitment to a development-focused and welfare-based agenda, he added.

Entire ASR district records single-digit temperature

Visakhapatnam: The minimum temperature dropped to 9.4 degrees Celsius in Chintapalle in Alluri Sitarama Raju district, making it the coldest place in the State on Thursday. Parts of Andhra Pradesh witnessed a sharp dip in mercury levels on Thursday. Kalingapatnam in Srikakulam district recorded 16.2 degree C on Thursday, followed by 18C at Jangamaheswarapuram in Palnadu district, 18.2C at Nandigama in Krishna district, 18.5C at Arogyavaram in Annamayya district and 18.7C at Anantapur. Dr A. Appala Swami, associate director of Regional Agriculture Research Station (RARS), Chintapalle, said the mercury levels dipped to below 10C in many parts of the ASR district on Thursday. As per the Agromet Field Unit (AMFU), Dumbriguda in the ASR district recorded 8.6C, followed by 8.7C each at G Madugula and GK Veedhi, 8.8C at Hukumpeta, 9.1C at Arakuvalley, 9.5C at Pedabayalu and 9.8C at Paderu. Thick fog enveloped the entire agency area, bringing down the visibility to less than 100 meters. The plummeting mercury has been making life miserable for locals in the parts of the ASR district. While most people prefer to stay indoors after sunset, businesses are opening late and shutting down early in the evening, said M. Chittibabu of Paderu. The prevailing cold weather in the ASR district is an indication that many parts of the district and a few parts of the state will experience chilly conditions in December. On January 8, 2023, Chintapalle in the ASR district recorded the lowest temperature of 1.5 degrees Celsius of the season as per the RARS-Chintapalle. The cold conditions, fog and blanket of Niger flowers are attracting tourists from different parts of the State and West Bengal.

SKIAD remains shut since 2016

Anantapur : Once a beacon for competitive exam training, the Sri Krishnadevaraya Institute of Academic Development (SKIAD) has been defunct since 2016. Established by Sri Krishnadevaraya University (SKU) in 1995, SKIAD provided coaching for exams like GATE, banking, and state services, including village administrative officer and panchayat secretary posts. The institute played a vital role for rural students struggling to secure placements post-graduation. Its dedicated faculty enhanced students' competencies, equipping them for various competitive exams and making them job-ready. The institute boasted classrooms, tutorial rooms, a library, and infrastructure conducive to effective learning. Since its closure, SKIAD has fallen into disrepair. Thorny bushes surround the building, while valuable resources like computers and furniture have been stolen. Local youth and students are urging SKU to transfer SKIAD's management to a capable NGO to revive its operations and benefit the unemployed. Educationists, including Dr M. Suresh Babu of the Save Education Committee, Prof. G.V. Siva Reddy, and Dr H. Ramachandra, have repeatedly petitioned SKUs leadership. They stress that SKIADs absence forces students to travel to Nandyal, Tirupati, and Hyderabad for coaching, heightening the demand for its revival.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu to disburse pensions under NTR Bharosa at Nemakallu village on November 30

Ahead of the Chief Ministers visit, Anantapur district Collector and Superintendent of Police inspect the helipad, the beneficiaries houses, and the grama sabha venue in the village

Kadapa: BJP-TD leaders fight over fly ash transportation from Rayalaseema thermal plant

Vijayawada: A tense situation prevails in the border region of Anantapur-Kadapa districts over the transportation of fly ash from the Rayalaseema Thermal Power Plant at Jammalamadugu in Kadapa. This follows a fight between BJP MLA Adinarayana Reddy and Telugu Desam leader, ex-MLA JC Prabhakar Reddy. Additional police force was deployed at Sugamanchipalli in Kondapuram mandal in Kadapa and the borders of Anantapur district on Wednesday. Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu intervened in the matter, directed officials to ensure law and order and warned ruling side leaders against taking law into their hands. Reports said the Tadipathri municipal chairman JC Prabhakar Reddy planned to visit the plant on Wednesday after MLA Adinarayana Reddys group waylaid Tadipathri vehicles from collecting fly ash from the plant. TD leader JC Prabhakar Reddy threatened to stop entry of pond ash vehicles of the BJP MLA into the cement factories of Tadipathri.Naidu, expressing anger over these developments, warned the two sides against tarnishing image of the government. He directed the CMO officials to submit a detailed report about the issue and asked the police to act tough. Prabhakar Reddy, in his letters to Anantapur and Kadapa SPs, accused Adinarayana Reddys nephew, Bhupesh Reddy, of unlawfully blocking the entry of Tadipathri-based vehicles from loading pond ash at RTPP in Kadapa district. The ash is being supplied to cement factories by both groups. Prabhakar stated, Despite multiple complaints to police officials, no action has been taken. In protest, cement and sand trucks from Kadapa were waylaid on Nov 23. He criticised Bhupesh Reddy for aking law into his hands and warned of a strong response if vehicles transporting fly ash are obstructed again. Reiterating his family's political legacy, the TD leader vowed not to tolerate atrocities against his men.Amid speculation over Prabhakar Reddys plan to visit RTPP, the Kadapa police was put on alert by higher authorities. Naidu asked CMO officials and the district authorities to gather full details about the transportation and distribution of fly ash.

Agency areas in AP enhance tourist experience with new attractions

Visakhapatnam : Tourists visiting the picturesque agency areas of Alluri Sitharama Raju district this winter can look forward to an enhanced experience with new attractions introduced by the district administration, the Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA) Paderu, and the Tourism Department. A newly constructed 435-meter wooden walkway now weaves through serene coffee plantations near Sunkarmetta junction, between Anantapur and Araku, offering visitors a unique perspective of the landscape. The attraction is open to tourists for a nominal entry fee ranging from Rs 20 to Rs 50. Adventure enthusiasts can now enjoy two thrilling additions to the valley's offerings: paramotor rides along the Araku-Jeypore Road and tethered hot air balloon rides at Padmapuram Gardens. Both activities have completed trial runs, with the hot air balloon rides already drawing significant interest from tourists. The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) continues to operate its popular skylining facility at Ananthagiri, which has seen strong visitor interest. Additionally, the ITDA has initiated improvements at Kothapalli Waterfalls near Chintapalli, the regions second most visited waterfall after Chaparai. Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, ITDA Project Officer V. Abhishek detailed ongoing developments: Following our successful enhancement of Chaparai Waterfalls last year, were now focusing on Kothapalli Waterfalls. The project includes new road construction, expanded parking facilities, changing rooms, and illuminated concrete pathways. These improvements should be completed within 15-20 days. Environmental conservation remains a priority, particularly at Vanjangi Hill, where new toilet facilities are being installed and road repairs have been completed. The area, located within a reserve forest, maintains a strict plastic ban. Abhishek highlighted last year's cleanup effort at Vanjangi, where 38 workers collected 14 truckloads of plastic waste over ten days. The ITDA is also making improvements at the famous Borra Caves under the Swadesh Darshan scheme, incorporating eco-friendly facilities such as tented changing rooms and washrooms. To combat plastic pollution, local hotels have been urged to sell larger water bottles and use sustainable alternatives like leaf plates and cups. Tourist numbers have shown significant growth, with Borra Caves alone attracting approximately 7,000 visitors on recent weekends, marking a substantial increase from previous years.

Anantapur police arrest 26 mobile gamblers, seize 13.18 lakh cash

Led by SP P. Jageesh, a special team raids the mobile gambling den on the outskirts of Iruvendula village in Singanamala mandal

Ex-gratia of Rs.5 Lakh Each Given to Families of Road Mishap Victims

Anantapur : Finance Minister Payyavula Kesav on Sunday distributed an ex-gratia of Rs.5 lakh to each family that lost its members in a road accident near Talagasipalle Cross in Garladinne a day ago. The auto rickshaw they were travelling in was hit by an RTC bus on NH44. A total of 12 farm labourers lost their lives. Four more injured victims battled for their lives at KIMS hospital. Kesav visited the Elutla village in Putlur mandal and consoled the bereaved family members on Sunday. He distributed cheques of Rs.5 lakh to each family. He assured them of more help from the government to uplfit the families. Health minister Satya Kumar visited the KIMS hospital and said the government would bear the medical expenses of the victims being treated at private hospitals. Tadipathri municipal chairman Prabhakar Reddy called for a ban on overloaded auto rickshaws on the highway roads. An average of 60 persons, mostly farm labourers, are killed in road mishaps in the region every month, he lamented. He urged the government to provide government jobs to these families as the announced compensation was insufficient.

Minister assures support to kin of victims in fatal road accident in Anantapur district

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu announces 5 lakh ex gratia each to families of the deceased; enforcement drive to be taken up in district to check overcrowding of autos, says Health Minister

Andhra Pradesh: Seven killed, four injured in RTC bus-auto collision in Anantapur

Seven agricultural laborers tragically lost their lives and four others sustained critical injuries in a devastating road accident in Andhra Pradesh's Anantapur district. The laborers were returning from work when their auto collided head-on with an RTC bus. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister expressed grief and announced compensation for the bereaved families.

Chennai Devotee Donates Rs 2.02 Crore to TTD

ANANTAPUR : A Chennai-based devotee, Vardhaman Jain, has donated `1.01 crore each to the SV Annaprasadam Trust and the Pranadana Trust of the TTD at the Lord Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple in Tirumala. The cheques were handed over to TTD Additional Executive Officer Ch Venkaiah Chowdary on behalf of Sri Vyasaraja Mutt Pontiff, Sri Vidyasrisha Theertha. The devotee had darshan of the Lord along with the pontiff, who received a traditional welcome from the TTD authorities. It is noteworthy that Saint Vyasaraja, who served as the Rajaguru and Emperor of the Vijayanagar Empire, performed poojas for Lord Venkateswara Swamy for 12 years at Tirumala upon the request of the Chandragiri king five centuries ago. Saint Vyasaraja is credited with consecrating the Vimana Venkataramana on the sanctum sanctorum, enabling devotees to have darshan. Many revered poets, including Purandara Dasa, Kanaka Dasa, Vijaya Dasa, and Gopala Dasa, who were disciples of Saint Vyasaraja, composed hundreds of keerthanas extolling the Lord.

Governor calls Sathya Sai Baba a saint of service

Anantapur : AP Governor Abdul Nazeer described Sri Sathya Sai Baba of Puttaparthi as a shining example of a saint who motivated millions to get on to the path of service. Addressing devotees as chief guest at the 99 th birth anniversary celebrations of Satya Sai Baba at the Sai Kulwanth Hall in Prasanthinilayam in Puttaparthi of Satya Sai district on Saturday, the Governor said there have been many rishis, munis, sufis, acharyas and saints who have guided humanity on the right path. In our age, Sai Baba spread spirituality across the globe and took up social services on a large scale, Abdul Nazeer pointed out. He commended the Sri Satya Sai Central Trust for initiating construction of a 6,100 KW solar power generation plant, the largest by an NGO in the country. The Governor recalled Sri Sathya Sai Baba teaching that a humans basic nature is divine and his / her purpose is to realise that divinity. Such realisation comes by leading a moral life, rendering selfless service to those in need, engaging in devotional practices, and developing love, respect and compassion for all life. Abdul Nazeer underlined that for Sathya Sai Baba, spiritualism had not been through rituals, but by providing selfless service to people and education to students. BC welfare minister Savitha, MLAs Sindhura Reddy and M.S. Raju, and SP V. Rathna were among those present.

AP CM calls for DPR to build reservoir across HLMC

Anantapur: Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu on Friday ordered the release of funds to prepare a detailed project report (DPR) for the long-pending reservoir proposal at Untakal. The reservoir would store Tungabhadra water of the High-Level Main Canal and meet the requirements of the Anantapur and Satya Sai districts. The chief minister was responding to a representation from Rayadurg MLA Kalava Srinivasulu. He told Naidu that a reservoir had been proposed there during the TD term, but it was neglected by the YSRC government. Naidu swiftly issued orders to the irrigation and finance departments to release necessary funds for a DPR as a first step towards the implementation of the dream project. Nemakal Hanuman has been named for the separate balancing reservoir. The Nemakal Hanuman Temple was consecrated during the time of St Vyasaraja, who was also emperor and Rajguru of the Sri Krishnadevaraya of Vijayanagar Empire. He had initiated the construction of several Hanuman temples as well as irrigation tanks across the region. The new balancing reservoir was planned by the first TD government of 2014 near Untakal village in Bommanhal Mandal in view of the diversion of TB water by Karnataka farmers. The government had sanctioned a separate reservoir to store water in the border areas. This would help meet the needs of Anantapur, Kadapa, and parts of Kurnool districts through the High-Level Main Canal. The HLMC has more than 1.68 lakh acres of ayacut under the main canal, covering an area of about 189.44km. However, not even a single balancing reservoir has been built to make proper use of the Tungabhadra waters in the district so far. The Irrigation department reported that the farmers of Anantapur were facing problems of poor water supply even as the Tungabhadra Board allocated proper quota every year to AP, Karnataka, and Telangana. The TB water would flow through more than 100km in Karnataka to reach the AP borders. Srinivasulu has expressed his gratitude to the CM for the positive response to the project that can store 5tmc-ft of water.

Anantapur bananas heading for Middle East markets

Anantapur: Rich quality Banana from Anantapur would reach the markets in the Middle East region, including Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Dubai and Bahrain soon. A special train with 34 bogies of banana was flagged off at Tadipathri railway station in this district on Friday. About 680 metric tonnes of the top grade G-9 variety procured from farmers by a private agency would first reach Mumbai port. Private agency Srikrishna Impex Ventures that collected the produce in bulk will ship this to Saudi and other countries from Mumbai. Though fruits like apple are not grown in Anantapur due to a lack of cold climate, the region is known as the fruit bowl of AP. It produces more than 24 varieties of fruits of high quality because of its special soil conditions. Principal secretary to agriculture and marketing B Rajasekhar and horticulture and sericulture director K Sreenivasulu, in virtual mode, flagged off the train from Vijayawada. Anantapur Collector Vinod Kumar, MP Ambika Lakshmi Narayana, Tadipathri municipal chairman JC Prabhakar Reddy and others were present at the Tadipathri railway station to see off the huge consignment. Bananas from Anantapur district had been sent to Saudi Arabia in 2018, when 12 to 15 thousand metric tonnes were exported by a Delhi-based agency. This time, the Sri Krishna Impex Venture came forward to procure and transport bananas by offering farmers Rs 27,000 a tonne. The farmers will get this money directly credited to their accounts with no role for middlemen, stated collector Vinod. He said farmers would get more benefits for the produce as international markets are opening up for them. High quality bananas from Anantapur region have huge demand abroad. The horticulture department said a total of 27,170 acres of banana orchards existed in Anantapur district and the G-9 variety is majorly cultivated in the region. Some 5.97 lakh metric tonnes of banana is expected for the harvest this season.

CM Naidu Reaffirms Location of AP High Court Bench in Kurnool

VIJAYAWADA: Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu reaffirmed in the State Legislative Assembly on Thursday that a bench of the Andhra Pradesh High Court will be established at the Kurnool city in Rayalaseema. He informed members that the state cabinet has already approved the matter and the assembly has also passed a resolution in this regard. He underlined that the resolution passed in the assembly on the bench in Kurnool will be sent to both the AP High Court and the Central Government. Significantly, Chandrababu Naidu made it clear in the State Legislative Assembly that the offices of Lokayukta and Andhra Pradesh State Human Rights Commission (APSHRC) will not be shifted from Kurnool. The Chief Minister underlined that his government is committed to comprehensive development of the state. Visakhapatnam in north Andhra and Kurnool and Tirupati in Rayalaseema region will be developed much further. Only Telugu Desam can comprehensively develop AP. We have done it earlier and will do it again now, Chandrababu Naidu underlined. He pointed out that TD founder late N.T. Rama Rao wanted to take Krishna River waters to Rayalaseema. As part of it, NTR launched the Telugu Ganga, Handri-Neeva and Nagari-Galeru projects. Making it clear that only the TD-led NDA alliance government can complete these projects, the AP CM said once rivers are interlinked and Polavaram project is completed, Godavari water can be shifted to Banakacherla, which will be a game changer. We completed the Gollapalli reservoir within a year only to get the Kia Company, he pointed out, saying the facade of Anantapur has totally changed with the advent of Kia. Naidu observed that Andhra Pradesh will witness wonders once horticulture is properly developed. Bengaluru airport is close to Anantapur. Hyderabad airport is very close to Kurnool. Chennai airport is very close to Chittoor. Orvakallu also has an airport and Tirupati airport is being expanded to increase services. He pointed out that the four combined districts have four airports. The Chief Minister said top priority is being given for education in Rayalaseema region. Tirupati is being transformed into an education hub, with IIT already established in Tirupati. IIIT and Urdu University are at Kurnool and Central University is in Anantapur. Emphasising on development of Rayalaseema, he recalled that when the centre sanctioned two industrial parks to Andhra Pradesh, one had been set up at Orvakallu in Kurnool district while the other in Kopparthy of Kadapa district. Stating that 5,000 crore have been sanctioned for development of these industrial parks, Chandrababu Naidu pointed out that 300 acres have been allocated for a drone hub at Orvakallu.

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

AP HC directs AP government to protect girls in welfare hostels

Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh High Court has directed Andhra Pradesh government to formulate guidelines to protect girls staying in welfare hostels of the state. A single judge bench of justice N. Harinath issued the directive while hearing a petition filed by K. Sankaraiah, who worked at the AP Social Welfare Residential School in Gutti. Sankaraiah had in February 2014 challenged an order suspending him from service on charges of misconduct. Delivering his verdict recently, the judge expressed concern over lack of protection to girl students in social welfare hostels of the state. He directed the state government to come up with a set of guidelines and implement them strictly. Justice Harinath observed that teachers and principals must take the responsibility of ensuring the safety of girls in residential schools. He pointed out that if staff members behave indecently with girls, their parents will start fearing about their safety and even avoid admitting them into welfare schools for pursuing education. The judge issued a set of guidelines, like construction of a compound wall, erecting solar fencing around the hostel building, installing CCTV cameras at the entrance, corridors and common areas in the hostel, and keeping a watch on entry and exit of visitors into the hostel premises by maintaining a register. He underlined that the cameras should be installed in such a that they protect the privacy of students. Justice Harinath said there must be a security check of staff members. Psychologists should be available to girl students for helping them overcome their personal issues. He directed that security norms be implemented in social welfare hostels as per the standards of National Commission for Child Protection. He called for proper implementation and awareness of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012. He suggested holding of workshops for teaching self-defence to girls. Petitioner Sankaraiah hails from B. Pappuru village of Narapala mandal in Anantapur district. He worked as a cook and watchman at the AP Social Welfare Residential School at Gutti from 1986. On July 24, 2011, he misbehaved with a girl student. After an inquiry, Sankaraiah had been placed under suspension on September 2, 2011. On April 11, 2013, authorities dismissed him from service. He filed a petition in February 2014 challenging his dismissal.