Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri reaffirms Centres support to Andhra Pradesh

VIJAYAWADA: Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri highlighted the Centres support for the States development projects and said the new US policies may not have an impact on petroleum prices in India and may even fall further in global markets. Speaking to mediapersons in Vijayawada on Friday, he expressed support for the petroleum refineries, GAILs Srikakulam-Angul Natural Gas Pipeline, AIIMS Mangalagiri, IIT Tirupati, and IISER Tirupati. Additionally, he noted a significant increase in railway infrastructure allocation, from Rs 886 crore (2009-2014) to Rs 9,417 crore (2024-25). Minister Puri outlined key road and railway projects, including 4,741 km of national highways, the Bengaluru-Kadapa-Vijayawada Expressway, and the modernisation of 73 railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. He announced the establishment of the NTPC Green Hydrogen Hub in Pudimadaka and three new greenfield airports. Emphasising the BJP-led governments commitment to Andhra Pradeshs growth, he stated that under PM Modis leadership, India is emerging as a global economic power. He also addressed fuel prices, Indias international standing, and the upcoming Bihar elections. He noted that the recent petrol price hike was -0.67% in India, compared to 48% in Bangladesh and 25% in Pakistan, while the diesel price increased by 1.15% in India, 85.47% in Sri Lanka, and 5.17% in the USA. Puri highlighted that under the 14th Finance Commission, States now receive 42% of tax devolution, up from 32% under the 13th Finance Commission. Andhra Pradeshs tax devolution increased from Rs 1,32,385 crore (2004-2014) to Rs 2,94,063 crore (2014-2024), a 123% rise. Grants and aid to Andhra Pradesh surged 264%, from Rs 78,112 crore (2004-2014) to Rs 2,84,141 crore (2014-2024). Regarding special assistance for capital investment, he detailed interest-free loans provided to Andhra Pradesh: Rs 688 crore (2020-21), Rs 502 crore (2021-22), Rs 6,106 crore (2022-23), Rs 4,091 crore (2023-24), and Rs 5,663 crore (2024-25). He asserted cooperation between the State and Centre in projects such as a Rs 90,000-crore BPCL refinery. Puri also provided updates on energy projects, including ONGCs offshore activities near Kakinada, which are expected to produce 45,000 barrels of crude oil per day. He contrasted this with delays in other States due to the lack of approvals. He noted significant railway investments in the State including 1,560 km of new tracks laid in Andhra Pradesh since 2014, more than Sri Lankas entire railway network and 1,949 km electrified, making the States railway network fully electrified. Additionally, Rs 2,051 crore has been allocated for upgrading 73 railway stations, and eight Vande Bharat trains now serve 15 districts. He announced the establishment of ISROs third launch pad at Sriharikota, with a budget of Rs 3,984.86 crore, and the foundation stone laying for projects worth over Rs 2 lakh crore in Visakhapatnam. He highlighted PM Modis inauguration of key healthcare facilities, including AIIMS Mangalagiri.

Exclusive NCC Academy proposed at Vijayawada

Vijayawada MP Kesineni Sivanath alias Chinni praised Colonel Agarwal for his exceptional leadership in managing India's largest NCC unit Kakinada Group with outstanding efficiency and dedication.

New Vice-Chancellor for JNTU-Kakinada

Bird flu outbreak lowers chicken prices, boosts mutton, seafood demand

VIJAYAWADA: The ongoing bird flu outbreak has caused a significant drop in poultry prices across the State, while driving up the demand and cost of mutton and seafood. With consumers moving away from chicken, prices have fallen notably in several districts. In Guntur, skinless chicken is now priced at Rs 160, down from Rs 180-Rs 210, and chicken with skin has dropped from Rs 160 to Rs 140. The cost of a tray of 30 eggs has decreased to Rs 160 from Rs 170-190. In Kakinada, skinless chicken has reduced from Rs 260 to Rs 240 per kg, and chicken with skin now costs Rs 220, down from Rs 240. The price of eggs has also declined from Rs 6.70 to Rs 5.30 per piece. Tirupati saw live chicken prices fall from Rs 155 to Rs 133 per kg, and dressed chicken dropped from Rs 190 to Rs 163 per kg. The cost of 100 eggs also dropped from Rs 560 to Rs 500. In YSR district, chicken prices increased slightly in some areas but still showed a decrease in egg prices. Mutton prices surged in various locations. In Guntur, mutton has risen from Rs 750-Rs 900 to Rs 1,000 per kg, and similar hikes were noted in Tirupati and Anantapur. The seafood market has seen a price increase, with prawns now costing Rs 600 per kg, up from Rs 400. Fish prices have also surged, with Pandugappa fish rising from Rs 500 to Rs 800 per kg. The rise in seafood demand has led to an estimated 10% increase in fish production. However, there are concerns regarding the use of chicken waste as fish feed, which authorities are monitoring closely.

Singhania Group to strengthen Andhra government schools

VIJAYAWADA: The State government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Sulochanadevi Singhania School Trust to enhance educational standards in the government schools, in the presence of HRD and IT Minister Nara Lokesh in Undavalli on Tuesday. The initiative aims to reform school management by improving teacher performance through training and spoken English proficiency while integrating technology into the curriculum. Initially, 14 schools in Tirupati district will be covered under the programme. The project will later extend to Amaravati, Visakhapatnam, and Kakinada. Over the next five years, the Singhania Group will provide extensive teacher development, skill enhancement, and technology integration, benefitting one lakh students. Minister Lokesh reaffirmed the State governments vision of making APs education sector the best in the country. We are introducing radical changes in the KG to PG curriculum. Our goal is to equip students with job-ready skills, he asserted. Singhania Group Chairman Gautam Hari Singhania highlighted the focus on equipping students with high-tech skills. Singhania Group of Schools Director Revathi Srinivasan and others key executives from the Singhania Group and Raymond were present.

Andhra government takes steps to stock up on immunoglobulin

VIJAYAWADA: Taking stock of the Guillain-Barr Syndrome (GBS) cases in the State, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Monday directed the Health Department to investigate the reasons behind the occurrence and spread of the rare autoimmune condition and take necessary steps to reduce the number of cases. Briefing the media after the review meeting, Health Minister Y Satya Kumar Yadav reassured the public, stating that there is no need for panic as the situation is under control. Following the death of two people due to GBS, the Health Department has been put on high alert. The situation is being closely monitored, and immunoglobulin injections have been made available. An order has also been placed for additional supplies, he added. Emphasising that GBS is not a new condition, he highlighted that 301 cases had been reported in 10 of the 17 Government General Hospitals in 2024. Of these, 115 cases were reported in Guntur GGH, 45 each in Kakinada and Vijayawada GGHs, 33 in Kurnool, 28 in Visakhapatnam, and 21 in Nellore. Stating that 43 cases had been reported in January this year, he explained that 17 people are currently undergoing treatment. The Health Minister clarified that GBS is caused when the immune system attacks the peripheral nerves, resulting in muscle weakness and paralytic effects on the lower limbs. He noted that only one or two people out of every one lakh are affected by GBS. Further, he advised the public to seek treatment if they notice any symptoms. In fact, 85% of patients recover without the need for any treatment. Only around 15% of those affected require treatment with immunoglobulin injections, he explained. ICMR probing reasons behind outbreak: Spl CS Regarding the high cost of treatment, he said each immunoglobulin injection costs `20,000, with patients needing up to five injections per day for several days. However, he stressed that all major government hospitals are now equipped with these injections. On the higher number of GBS cases at Guntur GGH, Kumar explained that due to the hospitals advanced neurology department, cases from other areas were being referred there. Special CS (Health) MT Krishna Babu mentioned that a national-level alert was issued after 181 cases of GBS were reported in the Pune Municipal Corporation in a short period. He added that the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is investigating the reasons behind the outbreak, with bio-pollution suspected as a potential cause. Regarding the availability of immunoglobulin injections, he stated that 1,200 injections are currently available in hospitals across the State, with an additional 6,000 to be procured. Dr NV Sundaracharhi, Principal of Guntur Medical College, explained that GBS is one of the oldest known diseases. He stated that various infections could trigger it, with a common cold being one of the early symptoms.

Tension in Andhra's Tuni over vice-chairman poll

KAKINADA: Tension prevailed at Tuni Municipal Chairperson Yeluri Sudha Ranis residence on Monday after YSRCP councillors decided to skip the vice-chairman election. A heated argument quickly escalated into a physical altercation when TDP councillors arrived at the chairpersons residence to confront the YSRCP councillors, who had gathered there after skipping the council meeting where the election was scheduled to take place. It may be recalled that the Tuni council meeting had been postponed twice, on February 3 and 4, due to arguments between the TDP and YSRCP members. A decision was later made to hold the meeting and elect a new vice-chairman. However, when YSRCP leaders sensed an alleged plot by the TDP to lure five of their councillors, they chose to skip the election and instead gathered at the Municipal Chairpersons residence. Following party directions and the planning by former YSRCP MLA Dadisetti Raja, all YSRCP councillors attended the party meeting at the municipal chairpersons residence. TDP leaders were informed of the meeting, leading them to confront the YSRCP councillors. Sources indicated that five YSRCP councillors were considering joining the TDP, prompting Raja to instruct that the councillors skip the council meeting. On February 15, nine councillors joined the TDP in the presence of former finance minister Yanamala Ramakrishnudu. TDP now requires three more additional councillors to secure the vice-chairman post. While all TDP members attended the council meeting, the YSRCP councillors were absent. As a result, the council meeting was postponed to Tuesday. Based on this information, the Tuni and Prathipadu police forces were deployed to the Tuni municipal office, enforcing Sections 30 and 144. Joint Collector Rahul Meena, who was appointed as an election observer, declared that the vice-chairman election was postponed. The council meeting will proceed as usual on Tuesday, the JC announced. In response to the violence, the YSRCP has announced a Chalo Tuni programme on Tuesday. YSRCP leaders file plaint on poll violence with SEC A delegation of YSRCP leaders, including MLA Tatiparthi Chandrasekhar, MLC Lella Appi Reddy, Malladi Vishnu, and NTR District YSRCP president Devineni Avinash, met State Election Commissioner (SEC) Nilam Sawhney to file a complaint regarding electoral violence in Tuni. MLA Chandrasekhar alleged that democracy in the State is being undermined by intimidation tactics, questioning how TDP could win in areas where they have no representation. Highlighting the poll violence in Palakonda, Piduguralla, and Tuni, Vishnu asserted that inaction by authorities would set a dangerous precedent.

Rs 9,000-cr LNG Import Terminal for Kakinada

KAKINADA: A Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Import Terminal with an investment of Rs 9,000 crore will come up in Kakinada. Norway-based Crown LNG has come forward to set up the terminal. Crown LNG CEO Swapan Kataria and Indian Gas Exchange MD Rajesh Kumar signed an MoU for setting up of the terminal, in the presence of Kakinada MP Tangella Uday Srinivas in New Delhi. Speaking on the occasion, the MP said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has laid special emphasis on energy sector as part of Viksit Bharat 2047. The TDP-led NDA government in the State has also given priority to the energy sector as part of its Swarna Andhra Vision 2047. It has formulated the new energy policy with an aim to attract huge investments. As a result, several companies have evinced interest to set up energy plants in AP with huge investments. BPCL Refinery, Reliance Biogas and Tata Energy plants are coming up in the State, he explained. The terminal to be set up by Crown LNG on Kakinada coast will produce 7.2 million metric tonnes of gas per year, thereby providing large scale employment to the local youth. Many ancillary industries will come up in Kakinada with the setting up of the terminal. The new terminal is likely to start production by 2028, the MP added.

TTD to convert food waste into energy for eco-conservation

TIRUMALA: The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) is set to begin compressed biogas (CBG) production in Tirumala in July, using food waste generated by the Mathrusri Tarigonda Vengamamba Nithya Anna Prasadam Complex and other TTD-run establishments. The project, which aims to produce 1,500 kg of biogas per day, will address both waste management and energy needs. The biogas plant, currently under construction at Kakula Thippa, will be capable of processing 50 tonnes of food and wet waste daily. The total cost for establishing the plant is Rs 12 crore, with TTD contributing Rs 5.85 crore and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) providing the remaining Rs 6 crore through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. The Central government had assigned IOCL to assess the energy potential from Tirumalas waste, and it was determined that biogas generation could reach 1,500 kg per day. It is worth noting that the daily gas requirement for TTD institutions in Tirumala is between 3,500 and 4,500 kg. Tirumala generates thousands of tonnes of wet and dry waste, including legacy waste accumulated over the past 40 years. The Anna Prasadam Complex alone produces 30 tonnes of food waste, five tonnes of leafy waste, and five tonnes of vegetable, fruit, and flower waste. 5-day immunoglobulin treatment for GBS cases As of February 15, Andhra Pradesh has reported 17 GBS cases. Special Chief Secretary (Health, Medical, and Family Welfare) MT Krishna Babu stated that major institutions like King George Hospital (KGH) in Visakhapatnam, Kakinada GGH, Guntur GGH, and Kurnool GGH treat 10 to 15 GBS cases requiring intensive care every month. These hospitals offer immunoglobulin treatment for severe cases, with a five-day course costing between Rs 2 lakh and Rs 3 lakh. The treatment is covered under the Dr NTR Vaidya Seva for eligible patients. Dismissing concerns of a localised outbreak, Krishna Babu assured that there is no cluster of cases in any particular region. Following the directives of Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, the Andhra Pradesh Medical Services and Infrastructure Development Corporation (APMSIDC) has taken steps to ensure the availability of immunoglobulin at central drug stores across the State. He urged the public not to panic and advised people to stay vigilant for symptoms of GBS, seeking immediate medical attention at the nearest government hospital if any symptoms appear.

Woman dies of GBS, toll rises to two in Andhra Pradesh

GUNTUR: A second death due to Guillain-Barr Syndrome (GBS) has been reported in the State, with a 45-year-old woman, Kamalamma from Alasandalapalli village in Komarole mandal, Prakasam district, succumbing to the rare autoimmune condition at the Guntur Government General Hospital (GGH) on Sunday. Earlier this week, a 10-year-old boy from Srikakulam was declared brain-dead after exhibiting similar symptoms. Confirming the death, Superintendent of Guntur GGH Dr SSV Ramana said Kamalamma was initially treated at Giddalur Government Hospital for three days for fever and weakness in her upper and lower limbs. She was then transferred to Guntur GGH on February 3, where tests confirmed the diagnosis of GBS. Kamalamma received IV Immunoglobulin treatment for five days, along with supportive therapy. She was intubated and placed on ventilator support on February 10. However, her health continued to deteriorate. She suffered three cardiac arrests within three days and passed away following the third one on Sunday, Dr Ramana explained. In response to the case, local health authorities have ramped up sanitation efforts in Alasandalapalli village. They are also conducting screenings for elderly residents and anyone exhibiting symptoms of GBS. Prakasam District Medical and Health Officer (DMHO) Dr T Venkateswarulu noted that preliminary investigations suggest contaminated water, possibly due to decaying animal carcasses, might be contributing to the outbreak. Water samples from borewells in the area have been collected for further analysis. Meanwhile, Guntur DMHO Dr Vijayalakshmi reported that seven patients from Guntur, Prakasam, Palnadu, and Dr BR Ambedkar Konaseema districts had been admitted to Guntur GGH with GBS symptoms. Of these, three patients have been discharged, one (Kamalamma) has died, and three others remain under treatment two of whom are in critical condition. 5-day immunoglobulin treatment for GBS cases As of February 15, Andhra Pradesh has reported 17 GBS cases. Special Chief Secretary (Health, Medical, and Family Welfare) MT Krishna Babu stated that major institutions like King George Hospital (KGH) in Visakhapatnam, Kakinada GGH, Guntur GGH, and Kurnool GGH treat 10 to 15 GBS cases requiring intensive care every month. These hospitals offer immunoglobulin treatment for severe cases, with a five-day course costing between Rs 2 lakh and Rs 3 lakh. The treatment is covered under the Dr NTR Vaidya Seva for eligible patients. Dismissing concerns of a localised outbreak, Krishna Babu assured that there is no cluster of cases in any particular region. Following the directives of Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, the Andhra Pradesh Medical Services and Infrastructure Development Corporation (APMSIDC) has taken steps to ensure the availability of immunoglobulin at central drug stores across the State. He urged the public not to panic and advised people to stay vigilant for symptoms of GBS, seeking immediate medical attention at the nearest government hospital if any symptoms appear.

Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh shine at All India Civil Services Hockey tournament in Kakinada

Crown LNG and Indian Gas Exchange will set up terminal at Kakinada Deepsea Port, says MP

The CEOs of both the companies entered into an MoU on February 14 on the sidelines of the India Energy Week-2025 held in New Delhi, says Uday Srinivas

Ensure supply of nine-hour quality power to farm sector: CS K Vijayanand

VIJAYAWADA: Chief Secretary (Energy) K Vijayanand conducted a high-level virtual review meeting on Saturday, emphasising the need for collective efforts to ensure nine hours of free power for agriculture and an uninterrupted 24x7 power supply for all consumers as electricity demand rises ahead of summer. He reviewed ongoing power projects, renewable energy plans, and smart meter installations while directing officials to expedite agricultural connections and strengthen power infrastructure. The government has sanctioned 40,000 new agricultural connections, of which 12,846 have been released. He instructed officials to accelerate the release of the remaining connections. He urged APTRANSCO, APGENCO, DISCOMs, and other power entities to fast-track project execution while maintaining reliability and efficiency. He projected that peak power demand in summer will reach around 13,700 megawatts, with daily electricity consumption expected to hit 260 million units. He stressed the importance of APGENCO generating a major portion of the required power, assuring the State support in coal procurement and transportation. He also advised power procurement through swap agreements, Independent Power Producers, and short-term purchases to minimise the burden on consumers. On renewable energy, Vijayanand highlighted the States commitment to adding 72.6 GW of renewable capacity over six years, including 40 GW of solar, 20 GW of wind, 12 GW of pumped storage, and 0.6 GW of bio-energy. The State has already approved clean energy projects worth Rs 85,727 crore, encompassing 1,376 MW of solar and wind, 1 MMTPA of green hydrogen, and 11,000 TPD of compressed biogas production. Additionally, the Ministry of Power has tentatively agreed to allocate a 1,000 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) under the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) scheme, with the State requesting an additional 1,000 MW/2,000 MWh capacity. Vijayanand also reviewed infrastructure developments, noting that APTRANSCO has commissioned multiple substations and transmission lines, including a 400/220 kV Gas Insulated Substation at Tallayapalem in Guntur district, and 220/132/33 kV substations in Kurnool and Chittoor districts. Several 132 kV and 220 kV transmission lines have been completed in Kakinada, West Godavari, and Anantapur districts. He reported that over 2,34,019 smart meters have been installed under APEPDCL and 51,107 under APCPDCLs RDSS scheme. Commending progress under the PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, Vijayanand noted that 9,702 rooftop solar installations with a cumulative capacity of 34,465 kW have been completed across various DISCOMs.

Mobile deposit dispute: Annavaram temple counter contractor fined RS 5 lakh for overcharging devotees

KAKINADA : The Kakinada District Consumer Forum Court imposed a fine of over Rs 5 lakh on the contractor managing the mobile phone deposit counter at the Sri Veera Venkata Sathyanarayana Swamy Vari Devasthanam in Annavaram. Jalligampala Lakshminarayana, a lawyer from Kakinada, lodged a complaint with the Consumer Forum after being overcharged for depositing his phone at the counter. On November 3, 2024, Lakshminarayana visited a temple and, after offering prayers, went to retrieve his mobile. When the staff requested Rs 10 for phone deposit, he questioned the lack of signage regarding charges, leading to an altercation. On December 4, 2024, the lawyer filed a complaint with the Kakinada District Consumer Forum. Investigation revealed the contractor was only authorized to charge Rs 5. The Forum ordered the contractor to pay a Rs 5 lakh fine to the temple and compensate the lawyer with Rs 15,000 for mental anguish and Rs 5,000 for legal fees.

Andhra Pradesh: Efforts on to check rising deaths of Olive Ridley turtles

Key nesting locations in AP include beaches near Sullurpeta, Tirupati, Nellore, Prakasam and Bapatla, as well as the estuaries of the Krishna and Godavari rivers, Kakinada, Anakapalli, Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, and Srikakulam

Kakinada: Rangaraya Medical College student dies by suicide

Sairam hanged himself to the ceiling in the RMC Boys Hostel after early on Tuesday morning

Medical student dies by suicide in Andhra Pradesh

KAKINADA: A 23-year-old student of Rangaraya Medical College here died by suicide in his hostel in the intervening night between Monday and Tuesday, a police official said. The student identified as R Sai Ram died by suicide in his hostel room when his roommate was away studying in another room, police added. We are yet to determine the reason for his suicide, we are investigating, the official told PTI. According to police, Sai Ram hailed from a small village near Narasapuram in West Godavari district. Meanwhile, police registered a case under Section 194 of BNS. (If you are having suicidal thoughts, or are worried about a friend or need emotional support, someone is always there to listen. Call Sneha Foundation - 04424640050, Tele Manas - 14416 (available 24x7) or iCall, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences' helpline - 02225521111, which is available Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 10 pm.)

Search begins for land for Reliance Groups proposed Compressed Biogas Plant in Kakinada District

At least 50 acre needed for the plant, the size of which depends on the availability of land, says District Collector

Advertisements on 13k vacancies fake: Union Ministry

KAKINADA: Days after the National Rural Development and Recreation Mission (NRDRM) posted advertisements for over 13,000 vacancies in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, the Union Ministry of Rural Development has clarified that the job notification is fake. The notification was posted on https://nrdrm.com/career.html, the NRDRM website, and presented as a department under the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India. The Union Ministry issued its clarification following a complaint lodged by social activist MVR Phanindra from Kakinada with the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre. The recruitment drive, which advertised 13,762 posts across 10 categories, included vacancies for positions such as district project officer, account officer, technical assistant, data manager, and computer operator, among others. Interested candidates were asked to fill the application form available on www.nrdrm.com or www.nrdrmvacancy.com between February 5 and February 25. Candidates were to be selected based on a written test. Additionally, applicants from the OC (Other Castes) and BC (Backward Classes) categories were required to pay an exam fee of `399, while those from the SC (Scheduled Castes), ST (Scheduled Tribes), and Below Poverty Line (BPL) categories were asked to pay Rs 299. The link for paying the fee redirected candidates to a UPI QR code, raising concerns about the authenticity of the notification. In his complaint, Phanindra pointed out that the website and job notification appeared suspicious, as government website domain names typically end in .gov.in or .nic.in. Jobless youth told to be more cautious However, both of the aforementioned websites were registered with the .com extension. In a phone call with Phanindra on Thursday, Union Ministry of Rural Development Secretary RD Diwakar confirmed that his department had no connection with NRDRM or the advertisement. He assured that appropriate action would be taken. The issue has been reported to the National Cyber Crime Portal to have the website taken down. However, as of the filing of this report, both the website and the job notification remained active. Taking note of the issue, Rajya Sabha MP Sana Satish advised unemployed youth to be cautious of fake job notifications. He urged them to verify the authenticity of such posts before applying or paying any examination fees.

Steel hub Gadchiroli to be linked to port cities of Vizag & Kakinada

Andhra Pradesh: Railways to run special trains for Maha Kumbh Mela on February 8, 20 from Kakinada

The Railways has announced that it will operate special trains for the Maha Kumbh Mela in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj from Kakinada on February 8 and 20.

Divis Lab resumes pipeline work along Uppada coast of A.P. amid concerns over pollution and livelihood

Talks will be heldsoon with the higher authorities and company management on demands of 16 fisherfolk villages affected by the project, says Kakinada Collector

Kakinada: Differently-Abled Woman Slips from Bus, Dies

Joint Collector T. Nishanthi visited Yandagandi and consoled the bereaved family, calling it an unfortunate incident and assuring them of government support

AP Govt removes Jagans images from survey stones

Andhra Pradesh govt erases YS Jagans images from land survey stones and launches resurvey in Kakinada, East Godavari

Locals rescue man at Eluru railway station

Kakinada: Onlookers on Thursday saved the life of a 30-year-old when he was trying to commit suicide near Eluru Railway Station and informed the police. Narra Gopi of Nagendra Colony at Eluru reportedly planned to fall under a running train. As he was walking on the track with a distressed mood, locals near a Masjid noticed him and they dragged him from the track. They dialed 112 for the police control room and informed the police. Eluru Two town sub-inspector Y. Krupa Danam and head constable Sundar Raju rushed to the spot. The police took him to the police station and counseled him. Danam said the youth works in an oil shop and ran debts of over Rs 3 lakh. Due to his failure to clear the mounting debts, he wanted to end his life. Later, he was handed over to his family members.

Collector reviews prep for Lakshmi Narsimha Swamy fest

Kakinada: The famous Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Kalyana Mahotsavams (celestial marriage celebrations) at Antarvedi in Sakhinetipalli mandal of Dr B. R. Ambedkar Konaseema district will be observed from February 6 to 13. Antarvedi Teertham will be held on February 8 on the auspicious Bhishma Ekadasi'. District collector R. Mahesh Kumar directed officials to conduct the festival in a grand but peaceful manner. He inspected the areas surrounding the Antarvedi temple like beach ferry points and others. Reviewing the arrangements, Mahesh Kumar said panchayat officials should install signboards for devotees to guide them to the temple, beach, boats, parking and other areas. He said the main command and control room should be set up at the main temple area while a mini command control room will be set up at the beach. He said that as many 21 govt departments would monitor the arrangements round the clock for 10 days and CC cameras be installed at all junctions and parking areas linking them with command control rooms. Officials of various departments including police should coordinate with one another. The RWS and panchayat raj officials should supervise the sanitation and drinking water facilities. The AP Transco officials should supply power round the clock without interruption. The weights and measurements and FSSA officials should ensure there are no unusual rise in prices of commodities and zero adulteration. He said that Amalapuram RDO will act as in-charge at Kalyana Vedika and the personnel on duties would be given passes before the date. He said that the APS RTC would run 105 buses to Antarvedi from various places. He instructed control room officials to keep updating the district collector every hour. District joint collector T. Nishanthi, Utsava committee members Balaji, admin S. P. Prasad and others were present at the meeting.

Rs 1,217 cr to be invested in 8 tourism projects: Kandula Durgesh

Kakinada: The state government has accorded permission to keep the hotels open till 12 in midnight. Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh, addressing the executive committee meeting of the Andhra Pradesh Hotels Association in Kakinada, said that the guidelines for the operation of hotels would be released soon. He said that the tourism sector would be developed as an industry. As part of it, hotels would be given discount on power and various other areas. Several investors have come forward to invest over Rs 1,217 crore in the hospitality sector on eight projects and MoUs relating to the new projects had already been signed, he said. These projects will provide employment to nearly 2,567 people. A cruise hub would be established with Vizag as the Centre. Vizag will emerge as an entertainment and tourism hub. Criticising the previous government, he said that the TD coalition government would not build palatial buildings for personal interests. He said that the government was losing revenue after the resorts at Rushikonda were demolished to give space to a palace, which is now lying vacant. If tourism industry has to flourish, the hotel industry has to be promoted, he said, adding that the government was ready to resolve the issues of the managements of hotels.

Dalits in AP Unsafe, Says YSRCs Kanakaraju

The number of Dalits who have attempted to kill themselves in the wake of the thrashing of seven youths by a vigilante group for allegedly slaughtering a cow has gone up to 17. (Photo: PTI) The number of Dalits who have attempted to kill themselves in the wake of the thrashing of seven youths by a vigilante group for allegedly slaughtering a cow has gone up to 17. (Photo: PTI) Vijayawada: Former SC corporation chairman and YSRC leader Kommuri Kanakaraju on Wednesday sought to underline that Dalits are unsafe under the administration of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. He informed media that there have been continuous incidents of caste-based discrimination and violence targeting Dalits across the state. In particular, the attacks on people of scheduled caste communities in Adoni and Pathikonda are unforgettable, he remarked. The YSR Congress leader went on to point out that a Dalit lecturer had been attacked by a Jana Sena MLA in Kakinada. In this regard, he questioned the effectiveness of AP home minister Vangalapudi Anitha. He charged that despite herself being a Dalit, she has been unable to protect SCs from persecution and violence. Kanakaraju asked the Dalit community to unite and resist the oppression unleashed against SCs. He maintained that AP is not Swarnandhra but a place unsafe for Dalits.

Husband, mother-in-law held for forcing woman into flesh trade in Andhra Pradeshs Kakinada district

The incident comes to light after her admission to the Government Hospital for Mental Care in Visakhapatnam, where she is battling for life

Andhra Pradesh: Efforts On to Convert Non-Aqua Zone Ponds to Aqua Zone List

This means aqua farmers having tanks in less than five acres' land located in aqua zone will get power tariff concession of 5.39 per unit. Those having tanks in more than five acres' land located in aqua and non-aqua zones will get power tariff concession of 3.04 per unit. Representational image/DC This means aqua farmers having tanks in less than five acres' land located in aqua zone will get power tariff concession of 5.39 per unit. Those having tanks in more than five acres' land located in aqua and non-aqua zones will get power tariff concession of 3.04 per unit. Representational image/DC Kakinada: Efforts are under way to convert aqua ponds from non-aqua zone to aqua zone. The government would hold Grama Sabhas at village level to get a formal nod, as this will enable aqua farmers to avail power subsidy and other incentives. Reports from the Grama Sabhas are to be sent to the district collectors before February 15 and these would be forwarded to the state government. According to sources, ponds are spread over 2,15,000 acres under aqua zone in Kakinada, Eluru, BR Ambedkar Konaseema and the East and West Godavari districts. More than 26,000 aqua ponds under non-aqua zones are proposed to be converted into aqua zone ponds. However, the villagers cant decide on whether one or another aqua pond should or should not be shut down. In West Godavari and BR Ambedkar Konaseema districts, people of many villages are agitating against aqua ponds, but the government is not in a position to heed their voice. For, the aqua sector is one of the highest earners of foreign exchange. The government is providing subsidies on power tariff to aqua ponds that are under aqua zone at the rate of `1.50 per unit. But the non-aqua zone farmers are not getting this. If these ponds are converted into aqua zone, they will also be entitled to these subsidies. According to officials, if the villagers express themselves against cultivating aqua ponds in non-aqua zones, the government will not heed their plea. These Grama Sabhas are being held to ascertain whether the villagers are ready to convert aqua ponds from non-aqua zone to aqua zone. The remaining issues will not be considered, said a fisheries department official. According to officials, aquaculture is prevalent in 2.15 lakhs acres including 25,000 acres in Konaseema, 5,000 acres in East Godavari, 22,500 acres in Kakinada, 1.12 lakhs acres in West Godavari and 1.50 lakh acres in Eluru district under the aqua zone. More than 26,000 acres are being cultivated under a non-aqua zone. Konaseema collector Mahesh Kumar has asked officials at a meeting in Amalapuram to gather information on aqua ponds by conducting a detailed survey based on the geo-coordinate maps, and identify brackish water, freshwater and other sources of aquaculture. As per the guidelines of the coastal region zone, coastal management, green tribunal, ground water department, the pollution control board and the Coastal Aqua Authority, aqua ponds can be permitted, he said. He said, Although the survey was conducted twice in the past, the governments instruction is to conduct it again with a team of officials consisting of fisheries, revenue, water resources, agriculture and PCB personnel. The survey should be completed within a week. The details should be compiled and submitted to the state- The collector cautioned the officials that before taking the employees into the survey, it should be ensured that this would not affect the Antarvedi sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy celestial marriage celebrations in February.

Rama Naidu praises CM for taking AP brand image to world

Kakinada: Water Resources Minister Nimmala Rama Naidu has praised Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu for the great boost he gave to the image of Andhra Pradesh, through the World Economic Forum summit in Davos. He told the media at Palakollu on Monday, Several multinational companies have agreed to set up their industrial units in the state and the CM has promised them to create the infrastructure facilities to suit their plans. The initiatives of several companies like Lulu, Jockey, Amar Raja, Kia etc had suffered in the state during the YSRC rule, due to unfavourable responses from the government. In this context, Chandrababu Naidu was asked by the industrialists at Davos whether there was any guarantee that Jagan Reddy will not come back to power, he said. Rama Naidu also praised IT minister Nara Lokesh for the return of Telugu Desam to power in AP by undertaking the Yuvagalam padayatra.

35-year-old who swallowed feature phone dies in Kakinada

Bindu Madhav takes charges as Kakinada SP

AP Approves Green Ammonia Plant and 2GG Electrolyser Project

Kakinada: Kakinada District Collector S. Shan Mohan announced that the state government has granted approval for the establishment of a Green Ammonia Plant, costing Rs. 13,000 crores, under the Clean Energy Policy. Additionally, a 2 Gigawatt Electrolyser Project, costing Rs. 2,800 crores, will also be developed in Kakinada. These initiatives aim to provide green energy and create employment opportunities for the youth. Mohan further highlighted the ongoing development in the district, including the construction of a Flatted Factory Complex in Peddapuram, covering 2.24 acres at a cost of Rs 13.30 crores, funded by the central government. He also noted that three industrial clusters have been set up under the MSC-CDP programme, with a total investment of Rs 55.53 crores. A printing cluster has been established in Kakinada at Rs 14.76 crores. Additionally, responding to the needs of students and villagers, APSRTC has introduced new services in 13 villages and purchased 40 buses for long-distance routes. Digital payment services have also been introduced for the convenience of passengers.

Will not become approver in any cases, says Vijayasai Reddy

VIJAYAWADA : V. Vijayasai Reddy on Saturday met Rajya Sabha chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar and handed over his resignation letter as MP. On Friday, Vijayasai Reddy, once a confidante of former chief minister and YSRCP president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, had announced his decision to quit active politics. Addressing media in Delhi after submitting his resignation to the RS chairman, which has been accepted, Vijayasai Reddy declared, No matter how much I am forced to become an approver in the cases (against Jagan Mohan Reddy), I will not. I believe in God, I do not know about betrayal and cheating, he declared. Vijayasai Reddy, however, did not say who tried to force him to be an approver. He maintained that he has resigned as the member of the Rajya Sabha due to personal reasons. YSRC had nominated him as a member of the Rajya Sabha a couple of years ago. I have resigned even though my term would have continued for another three-and-a-half years. I have also decided to quit politics, he reiterated. Vijayasai Reddy recalled that YSRC had won 151 seats in 2019. Even in 2024 elections, the party got 40 per cent of the vote. Jagan is a very popular leader. Even if a thousand people like me leave, support for Jagan will not decrease. I have explained over phone my reasons for resigning to Jagan, who is on a trip to London, he stated. Vijayasai Reddy went on to say that during his long political career, he has never lied. As a person who believes in Hinduism and Lord Venkateswara, I do not lie. I have been associated with the YS family for four decades. I have had close relations with Raja Reddy, Rajasekhar Reddy and Jagan for three generations, he pointed out to emphasise his association with the YS family. Vijayasai Reddy spoke about the case related to Kakinada seaport against him. He maintained that he is in no way related to the seaport case. Responding to assumptions regarding his resignation in lieu of settlement of cases, Vijayasai Reddy said as he has left politics, he will become even weaker. Then, why will the cases be waived, he asked. I will face anything bravely, Vijayasai Reddy added.

Rallies mark Voters Day observance

Kakinada: Voters Day celebrations were observed across the Godavari Districts, with rallies and 3k runs organised in Eluru, Kakinada, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema, East and West Godavari Districts on Saturday. In Eluru, a rally from the Indoor Stadium to the Collector's office was flagged off by District Collector K. Vetri Selvi. She highlighted that 16,37,55 voters, including 7,99,283 men, 8,38,146 women, and 126 third-gender individuals, were enrolled, and she encouraged people to register through Anganwadi centres, helplines, or online platforms. In Kakinada, the 15th Voters Day was celebrated under the leadership of Joint Collector Rahul Meena. A rally from Zilla Parishad Centre to Vivekananda Park was conducted, with over 16 lakh voters enrolled. Meena urged citizens to exercise their voting rights at all levels of governance. East Godavari District Collector P. Prashanthi flagged off an awareness rally at Y Junction, concluding at Sri Venkateswara Anam Kala Kendram. In Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema, a 3k run was organised from the Collectors office to Clock Tower Centre in Amalapuram, led by Joint Collector T. Nishanthi. In West Godavari, District Revenue Officer Mogili Venkateswara Rao administered a pledge for voters to use their vote responsibly.

Andhra Pradesh: 12 arrested with 23 kg of ganja

Vijayawada: The Vijayawada City Task Force and Law & Order teams arrested 12 individuals and seized 23 kilograms of ganja. Task Force ADCP A. Srinivasa Rao stated that nine arrests were made under Governorpet Police Station cases, two under Gunadala Police Station, and one under Satyanarayanapuram Police Station. The accused had prior arrests and continued their illegal activities, procuring ganja from tribal areas near the Andhra-Odisha border and reselling it in Vijayawada. A major seizure of 21 kg was made near Hanumanpet Park, with smaller quantities confiscated from other locations. ADCP Rao urged citizens to report illegal ganja activities to the Narcotic Cell at 9121162475 or antinarcoticcell@vza.appolice.gov.in, assuring confidentiality for informants. Sri Lankan delegation to study APCNF natural farming Vijayawada: A Sri Lankan team from the Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement will visit Andhra Pradesh from January 27 to February 7 to study the globally recognised Andhra Pradesh Community Managed Natural Farming (APCNF) model. RySS officials revealed that the delegation aims to implement the APCNF model in two Sri Lankan villages, promoting sustainable agriculture. The 10-day visit includes field tours in Ananthapur, Kakinada, Alluri Sitarama Raju, and Visakhapatnam districts, where delegates will interact with local farmers. This visit underscores Andhra Pradeshs leadership in ecological farming, offering solutions for food security, farmer empowerment, and environmental sustainability. YSR Congress to oppose privatisation of medical colleges Vijayawada: YSR Congress leader Dr Gopireddy Srinivasa Reddy has vowed to fight the privatisation of medical colleges, arguing it denies poor students access to affordable medical education. Speaking to the media, Dr Srinivasa Reddy criticised Chandrababu Naidu for privatising colleges under the PPP model, claiming it has cost the state 2,400 government medical seats. He praised Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy for establishing five new medical colleges, contrasting it with Naidus record of zero additions during his tenure. Dr Srinivasa Reddy called for legal action to stop privatisation, stressing the need for government investment in medical education to benefit underprivileged students. MLC demands white paper on Davos visits Vijayawada: YSR Congress MLC Mondithoka Arun Kumar criticised former Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidus Davos visits as wasteful and unproductive, accusing him of failing to secure investments for Andhra Pradesh. Arun Kumar demanded a white paper detailing expenses, meetings, and outcomes of the visits. He alleged that Naidu prioritised publicity over economic growth, citing past failures such as the FinTech Valley project and skill development initiatives. The MLC challenged Naidu to explain why no significant MoUs were signed during his trips and accused him of neglecting the states industrial potential. NTR collector honoured for electoral practices Vijayawada: NTR District Collector Dr G. Lakshmisha received the Best Electoral Practices Award-2024 during the 15th National Voters Day celebrations in Vijayawada. The award recognises her efforts in transparent voter list formulation, innovative registration programmes, and voter awareness initiatives. Chief secretary K. Vijayanand and other officials congratulated Lakshmisha for her exemplary contribution to enhancing the electoral process.

Road construction top priority: Minister

Kurnool: Roads and buildings minister B.C. Janardhan Reddy underscored the coalition governments commitment to prioritising the construction of cement concrete (CC) roads in rural areas. On Saturday, he inaugurated a newly constructed CC road in Owk town, built with an allocation of 32 lakh from MGNREGS and DMF funds.The Minister criticised the previous government for neglecting rural development, leaving villages with dilapidated roads. He stated that under Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu's directive, a state-wide road repair programme was initiated, allocating 861 crore to repair pothole-ridden roads. He assured that the government is focusing on improving internal CC roads, especially in rural areas, to enhance infrastructure and development. Mini Sports Stadiums in every assembly constituency DC Correspondent Kakinada: Tourism minister Kandula Durgesh announced the establishment of mini sports stadiums in every assembly constituency across Andhra Pradesh to encourage sports and foster young talent. While inaugurating the Legends Cup-2025 cricket tournament at SP Grounds in Rajamahendravaram on Saturday, the Minister played cricket and shared plans for a sports stadium in the city to benefit local communities and nearby villages. Durgesh highlighted Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyans efforts to promote sports and instil sportsmanship among the youth. He emphasised that sports teach discipline, time management, and problem-solving skills, alongside boosting confidence in students. He assured that funding is not an obstacle, and detailed plans are being formulated for the mini-stadiums. Rajamahendravaram, renowned for its cultural and sporting heritage, has produced many nationally and internationally recognised sportspeople. The event was attended by former MLC Adireddy Appa Rao, Aryapuram Cooperative Bank Chairman Challa Sankara Rao, Additional Superintendent of Police Balaji, former Ranji Trophy player Ramana Kishore, and others. Minister Reddy also announced large-scale construction of CC and bitumen-topped (BT) roads to improve connectivity and boost development in villages and towns. His visit to Owk town was celebrated with a traditional Poornakumbham welcome by temple priests, as local leaders and residents expressed their gratitude for the development initiative. Kids must learn value of voting: Judge DC Correspondent Vizianagaram: District judge B. Sai Kalyana Chakravarthy on Saturday urged parents and teachers to teach students from the school level the importance of voting in a democracy and the greatness of our country. Participating as the chief guest at the celebration of the National Voters Day here, Chakravarthy said freedom is necessary for every human being and if children are taught that freedom was won with the struggle by many people, they would know the value of voting. He said along with Mathematics and Science in schools, parents and teachers should teach children patriotism. The National Voters' Day was celebrated with the slogan Vote for Sure and participants at the meeting took the pledge on the Voters' Day. After the assembly, senior citizen Vidya Sagar Jain, Divyang voter Kondababu and transgender Pranitha were honored. Later, prizes were given away to students who had won in various competitions organised on the occasion. Young voters and students participated in the program.

Davos meet: CM invites major corporations to AP

Vijayawada: Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, in the last lap of his Davos visit, invited major corporations to explore investment opportunities in Andhra Pradesh. On the fourth and last day of the World Economic Forum meet on Thursday, Naidu held a fresh round of meetings showcasing AP to the world, on the sidelines of the summit. The four-day visit by an AP team led by Naidu to Davos aimed at creating an 'AP Brand' image and setting up a network to invite massive investments to the state. The CM held discussions with the managing director of the DP World Central Asia and Africa, Rizwan Sumoor. He told Sumoor that though DP World has five container terminals in India, none of these exists in Andhra Pradesh. Kakinada, Krishnapatnam and Mulapeta are the most suitable places for setting up the container terminals, he told the MD, and invited investments in seaports that are being constructed and also in integrated logistics. During the four day Davos visit, Naidu gheld fruitful discussions with CEOs and heads of various globally-renowned companies and representatives of different nations, an official release here said. The chief minister invited the CEOs to visit the state to have first-hand information on the opportunities available in AP. Various companies have evinced keen interest to set up their units in AP. On day one of the summit, he discussed the possibilities of inviting investments from Switzerland. Naidu also addressed a meeting of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) on green industrialization, while in Davos, during which he said only Indians have the capacity to grow as global-level entrepreneurs. The CMs discussions with the CEO of Maersk Company, Vincent Clerc, was fruitful as the company expressed its readiness to invest in AP, the official release said. The CM invited the chairman and CEO of Cisco Systems, Chuck Robbins, to invest either in Visakhapatnam or in Tirupati, and he responded in a positive manner. Discussions also were held with Google Cloud CEO, Thomas Kurian, during which Naidu urged him to make Andhra Pradesh its headquarters.

Woman Dies, 18 Others Injured in Road Accident

Visakhapatnam: A 21-year-old woman died and 18 others sustained injured as a private bus overturned on the Gaman Bridge near Rajamahendravaram. The accident occurred around 1.30 am on Thursday when a private bus en route from Visakhapatnam to Hyderabad lost control and overturned between Komthamuru and Katheeru. The deceased has been identified as Homini Kalyani, a resident of Visakhapatnam who was traveling to Hyderabad for a job interview. She was accompanied by her sister. Of the 18 injured passengers, 10 sustained serious injuries, with five patients reported to be in critical condition. Preliminary police investigations suggest that the bus driver was allegedly under the influence of alcohol and driving negligently at the time of the accident. Rajahmundry Three Town police have launched an investigation into the cause of the tragic incident. Most of the passengers were from Visakhapatnam, Tuni, and Annavaram, with a significant number being students. Among the five critically injured CH. Koteswara Rao, Dhanalakshmi and Renuka are undergoing treatment at the Kakinada Government Hospital, while Tejaswini and Deekshata have been shifted to KIMS Hospital. The bus was carrying 40 passengers when the accident occurred. Local authorities, including SP Narasimha Kishore, supervised the rescue operations. The SP, while having a conversation with the Deccan Chronicle , said that the overturned bus was removed at 1 a.m. with the help of a crane, and rescue personnel worked to free trapped passengers and confirmed that only one fatality was reported.

Vizag woman heading to exam dies, 18 others injured

Visakhapatnam: A private bus overturned on the Gaman Bridge near Rajamahendravaram, resulting in the death of a young woman and leaving 18 others injured. The accident occurred around 1:30 a.m. on Thursday when a Kaveri Travels bus en route from Visakhapatnam to Hyderabad lost control and overturned between Komthamuru and Katheeru. The deceased has been identified as Homini Kalyani (21), a resident of Visakhapatnam who was traveling to Hyderabad for a job interview. She was accompanied by her sister Dhanalakshmi and tragically succumbed to her injuries at the scene. Of the 18 injured passengers, 10 sustained serious injuries, with five patients reported to be in critical condition. Preliminary police investigations suggest that the bus driver was allegedly under the influence of alcohol and driving negligently at the time of the accident. Rajahmundry Three Town police have launched an investigation into the cause of the tragic incident. Emergency response teams quickly mobilized, dispatching six ambulances from Rajamahendravaram to transport the injured to the government hospital. Most of the passengers were from Visakhapatnam, Tuni, and Annavaram, with a significant number being students. Among the five critically injured CH Koteswara Rao, Dhanalakshmi and Renuka are undergoing treatment at the Kakinada Government Hospital, while Tejaswini and Deekshata have been shifted to KIMS Hospital. The bus was carrying 40 passengers when the accident occurred. Local authorities, including SP Narasimha Kishore, supervised the rescue operations. The SP, while having a conversation with the Deccan Chronicle, said that the overturned bus was removed at 1 a.m. with the help of a crane, and rescue personnel worked to free trapped passengers and confirmed that only one fatality was reported.

CM seeks Google Cloud manufacturing unit in AP

VIJAYAWADA: In continuing efforts in Davos, visiting Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu held talks with top executives of renowned companies, Google Cloud, Petronas and PepsiCo, seeking investment in Andhra Pradesh. In a meeting with Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian, Naidu proposed the start of its design centre in Visakhapatnam. He urged Kurian to set up a manufacturing unit in the state that would link with Google Cloud's server supply chain. An official release here said, The Chief Minister urged the Google Cloud CEO to set up a manufacturing unit in AP to integrate its server supply chain, so as to make the state its hub for services in server maintenance. This was the third day of the World Economic Forum meet in Davos. During his third-day visit Naidu, on Wednesday Naidu highlighted the states strategic advantages for global investments. He has been meeting heads/ representatives of top multinational corporations from across the globe and showcasing AP as an ideal destination for cutting-edge technology, green energy, and infrastructure projects, the official release said. Google Cloud, the third-largest cloud provider globally, has established two cloud regions in Delhi and Mumbai. It recently signed an MoU with the AP government to set up its 'Data City' in Visakhapatnam and Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications while fostering skill development opportunities for local youth. Naidu held discussions with Muhammad Taufik, president and the Group CEO of Petronas, a leading Malaysian oil and gas company. Petronas has plans to invest in India spanning fields like green hydrogen, green molicylous and green ammonia. Its target is to generate five million tonnes of green ammonia annually by 2030. The company is exploring the possibility of investing around `15,000 crore in green hydrogen and ammonia plants in Kakinada. Naidu invited Petronas to expand further by investing in Mulapeta, which is emerging as a petrochemical hub, and the proposed Global Capability Centre in the state. During a meeting with the CEO of PepsiCo International Beverages, Eugene Willemsen, and the PepsiCo Foundation chairman Stephen Kehoe, Naidu proposed making Visakhapatnam its Global Delivery Centre and the city its Digital Hub. He also told them to expand their Global Business Services Centre to Visakhapatnam. The Chief Minister proposed PepsiCo to be a partner with the Andhra Pradesh Community Natural Farming (APCNF) initiative to benefit local farmers through its supply chain. He suggested setting up a Kurkure manufacturing unit in the state to enhance industrial growth and provide employment opportunities to the youth. Naidu also met a representative from the Bahrain Prime Ministers office, Hamad Al Mahmeed, and the CEO of Mumtalakat, Abdullah bin Khalifa Al Khalifa. Informing them about the progressive industrial policies brought in by the AP government, he sought investments by emphasizing the states efficiency in facilitating businesses. Andhra Pradesh continues to attract global attention as a hub for innovation, sustainability and economic growth, Naidu told the Bahrain officials. The states proactive governance and investor-friendly policies ensure seamless integration for businesses aiming at growing globally, he said and invited them to the state to be partners in the Speed of Doing Business, the release added.

Sub-Classification of SCs, a Threat to National Unity: Ex-Union Minister

Kakinada: Raising the concerns over the division of Schedule Caste (SC) people, former union minister Chinta Mohan said that the classification to SCs will become a major threat to National Unity. Speaking to reporters on Wednesday he said that if the classification occurs to Schedule Castes reservations, the country will be divided in two like North India and South India in the next 20 years because North India has a major population of the Madiga community and South India is Mala community. The former union minister said that due to the classification of SCs in united Andhra Pradesh, the state had been divided into two states (AP and Telangana). Mohan demanded Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan should reveal his stand on division of SC reservations. He said that its since inception, Telugu Desam has been against the Schedule Castes and it always thinks of dividing Mala and Madiga communities. He said that the Supreme Court decision, consisting of seven judges on classification of SC reservations is not an order, but it is a disorder. Mohan said that Bahujan Samaj Party founder late Kanshi Ram toured 1700 mandals in combined Andhra Pradesh in 1994, aimed at uniting Schedule Castes and OBCs and implementing Uttar Pradesh formula. Then some of the political parties hatched a conspiracy to ruin the Kanshi Rams policy and encouraged the classification of SC reservations, creating rift between Malas and Madigas. The former union minister found fault with the state government for appointing the single-man commission on classification of reservations to SCs. Speaking about Visakha Steel Plant, Mohan said that the central government financial assistance of Rs 11,000 crore is not sufficient to improve the plants progress as the TD government pushed the plant to ICU with huge losses. He demanded that Chandrababu Naidu should pull out of Visakha Steel Plant from the losses. He said that the banks wrote off Rs 45,000 crore of loans of an industrialist in the country by collecting only Rs 450 crore and also provided a loan of Rs 10,000 crore. But the banks are not able to provide even 1 per cent of loans to SCs and STs, which have a 25 per cent population in the country.

Minister says CM will distribute 1 lakh houses in March

Kakinada :Housing minister K. Pardha Saradhi said Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu will distribute one lakh houses to the poor in NTR layouts throughout the state by March. Our CM is committed to providing a house or house site to every poor person in the state, he underlined. The minister, along with Eluru district collector K. Vetri Selvi and Eluru MLA Badeti Radhakrishna (Chanti), inspected the NTR Gruha Layout at Ponangi and Komadavole on Tuesday. He asked the beneficiaries about their opinion on the layouts. The beneficiaries requested Pardha Saradhi to provide basic amenities in the layouts, like drainage, drinking water and roads. The minister instructed officials to take up all these works immediately, so that keys of the houses could be handed over to the beneficiaries by March. Pardha Saradhi warned officials and contractors that stringent action will be taken against them if any lapses are found in the constructions. He pointed out that the loan amount for self-help groups will be increased to 1 lakh from 35,000. For SCs and STs, the amount for house construction will be increased to 75,000 from Rs.50,000. The minister said beneficiaries who have been given plots should complete construction of their houses by December 2026.

Centre aims to double income of farmers, says Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma

Kakinada: The central government aims to double the income of farmers through steps like value-addition, encouraging farming on a commercial scale and reducing reliance on imports. This was stated here on Tuesday by the Union minister of state for heavy industries and steel, Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma. He said farmers will greatly benefit from raising crops like turmeric, chilli, Aswagandha and castor as also tobacco, based on innovative research in these by scientists of the national institute for research in commercial agriculture (NIRCA), formerly known as the central tobacco research institute (CTRI). He was participating as chief guest at the ICAR-NIRCA formation day celebrations at the CTRI premises. The minister along with the NIRCA director MS Madhav unveiled the NIRCA logo and plaque on Tuesday. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi wanted research to help find ways to double the income of the farmers through value-addition to farm produce. Deputy director general (crop sciences-ICAR), TR Sharma, said seven decades of research for excellence in tobacco cultivation helped the farmers improve yield. Cloning, characterization and mapping of genes to suit the impact of climate change have been advised. He urged the scientists to identify novel genes in plant genetic resources that would help to mitigate the effects of climate change. Sharma inaugurated the Genome Editing Laboratory at the Crop Improvement Division of NIRCA and at the sales point. Tobacco board chairman Chidipothu Yashwanth Kumar said NIRCA was in close touch with researchers, farmers and industry. Director of ATARI, Shaik N Meera, former MLC Somu Veerraju, former director TGK Murthy, scientist U Sreedhar and others were present.

K.V. Rao trying to get back his KSEZ shares

Kakinada: K.V. Rao, once a major shareholder in Kakinada Special Economic Zone (KSEZ), is trying to get back his shares from Aurobindo Infra. Rao had recently succeeded in getting back his shares in Kakinada Sea Ports Limited (KSEL). During the YSRC regime, Aurobindo Infra got both KSPL and KSEZ. After the NDA alliance government took over power in AP, K.V. Rao lodged a complaint with CID that Aurobindo had forcibly taken his shares in KSEZ and KSPL. Sources said following this, Aurobindo Infra retransferred the KSPL shares to Rao. Enthused by this, K.V. Rao is making efforts to get back his shares in KSEZ. It is said Rao is exerting pressure on Aurobindo Infra either to retransfer his shares or pay money as per the share value. It is said that he wants nearly 2,000 crore from Aurobindo Infra. When this reporter tried to contact K.V. Rao, the latter responded saying he would speak later.

AP transfers 27 IPS officers

Vijayawada :In a major reshuffle in the police department, the Andhra Pradesh government issued an order transferring 27 IPS officers on Monday. Rajiv Kumar Meena working as additional DGP (operations), greyhounds, was transferred and posted as chairman of state police recruitment board. N Madhusudhana Reddy, additional DGP, was posted as additional DGP, Law and Order. Ch Srikanth, IGP, Law and Order, was transferred and posted as IGP, Operations and as IGP, technical services (FAC). G Palla Raju was posted as director, FSL.R Jayalakshmi was posted as IGP/Director, ACB. B Raja Kumari was posted as IGP, APSP Battalion. B Satya Yesu Babu, DIG, was posted as DIG, PTO. KKN Anburajan, DIG, was posted as DIG, Welfare and Sports. Babujee Attada was posted as DIG, Greyhounds. Fakeerappa Kaginelli, DIG, Intelligence, was transferred and posted as DIG, APSP Battalion. Vikrant Patil, SP, Kakinada, was transferred and posted as SP, Kurnool. V Harshavardhan Raju, SP, was posted as SP, Tirupati. L Subbarayudu was posted as SP, Red Sanders Anti-Smuggling Task Force, Tirupati. M Deepika, commandant 3rd Battalion, APSP, Kakinada, was transferred and posted as commandant of the 2nd Battalion, APSP, Kurnool. KSSV Subba Reddy, SP, PTO, was transferred and posted as SP, Coordination, Human Rights and Legal. P Parameswara Reddy, SP, was posted as SP, SCRB, CID. Bindu Madhav was posted as SP, Kakinada. S Sreedharan, SP, was posted as SP, CID. Krishna Kanth Patel, SP, was posted as DCP, Administration, Visakhapatnam. Dheeraj Kunubilli ASP, Rampachodavaram, was transferred and posted as additional SP, Administration, Alluri Sitarama Raju district. Jagadeesh Adahalli, ASP, Paderu, was transferred and posted as ASP, Operations, Alluri Sitarama Raju district. J Rama Mohan Rao, SP, Intelligence, is retained in the same position. N Sridevi Rao, SP, CID, is retained in the same position. EG Ashok Kumar, SP, Intelligence, was transferred and posted as SP, Kadapa. A Rama Devi, SP, Intelligence, was retained in the same position. KGV Saritha, SP, CID, was transferred and posted as DCP (Administration), Vijayawada; and K Chakravarthi, SP, CID, was retained in the same position.

Coromandel International Unveils Advanced Soil and Leaf Testing Lab in Kakinada to Nurture Sustainable Farming

Kakinada: Coromandel International Limited, Indias leading agri-inputs company, has inaugurated an advanced Soil and Leaf Testing Laboratory at its plant in Kakinada. Equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, this facility is designed to provide precise soil and plant nutrient analysis, helping farmers across India better understand their soil and its nutrient composition. This empowers them to make informed decisions on agri-input usage, promoting sustainable agricultural practices while safeguarding soil health for future generations. The hi-tech laboratory was inaugurated by Mr. Arun Alagappan, Executive Chairman of Coromandel International Limited, along with Mr. S. Sankarasubramanian, Managing Director & CEO, in the presence of other senior leadership team. The laboratory features advanced equipment such as Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES), which provides precise detection of essential soil and plant nutrients; Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (ED-XRF) which enables detailed leaf nutrient analysis. Other advanced technologies present at the lab include spectrophotometers, microwave digesters, and near-infrared spectrometers, ensure comprehensive and precise testing capabilities. These tools provide farmers with valuable insights into soil health and nutrient availability, allowing them to adopt precise agricultural practices that optimize fertilizer usage. By addressing nutrient deficiencies, improving crop yields, and minimizing unnecessary input costs, the laboratory supports long-term soil health and sustainable agriculture. Speaking at the inauguration, Mr. S. Sankarasubramanian, Managing Director & CEO, Coromandel International Ltd., emphasized Coromandels commitment to sustainable agriculture and farmer empowerment. He said, We are focused on empowering farmers with the tools to optimize productivity and sustainability. By offering soil and leaf test-based fertilizer recommendations, we help farmers make informed, tailored decisions for specific crops, regions, and seasons. This first-of-its-kind laboratory will change the game for farmers in being able to predict better outcomes through the precise nutrient insights. To boost engagement with farmers, this laboratory has automated soil testing service requests and the delivery of detailed test reports using Salesforce CRM. Farmers receive timely, data-driven recommendations directly on their mobile phones. Additionally, the laboratorys services are integrated with the Gromor Nutri Advisory Portal, which offers stage-wise fertilizer recommendations tailored to soil data and crop needs. This initiative reflects Coromandels ongoing commitment to equipping farmers with the resources and knowledge required to achieve long-term agricultural sustainability and productivity.

Farmers in distress due to water scarcity, non-release of state funds

Kakinada : Farmers under the Venkata Nagaram Lift Irrigation Scheme are in distress during the present Rabi season as the Irrigation department has not released water to the fields. Due to water availability following the digging of the LIS canals, the farmers of the region have been cultivating the lands for both the Kharif and Rabi seasons. This season, the officials could not release the water due to lack of funds. Officials say the state government did not release the funds for the LIS operational and maintenance costs. Nearly `4 crore is required for these purposes per annum. The contractor handling the maintenance has left the canal in June last due to non-release of the funds. That was the time when the government changed. The staff of the LIS is working on contract basis. They got no salary for the past few months. Meanwhile, a pipeline leakage occurred. The engineers detected a breach to the pipeline but repair would cost around Rs 5 lakh. The Rajamahendravaram Rural MLA Gorantla Buchaiah Chowdary exerted pressure on the irrigation department officials and helped the farmers get some water. According to the irrigation authorities, there exist some 10,561 acres of ayacut under the LIS in the three mandals --Rajamahendravram Rural, Rajanagaram and Rangampeta spread over three assembly constituencies. Executive engineer of the Venkata Nagaram Lift Irrigation Scheme, NP Rajeswara Rao, told Deccan Chronicle that there generally is no sharing of the water to Venkata Nagaram LIS for the Rabi season. But, if there is availability, water can be released to the ayacut to save the crop. Proposals have been sent to the government for release of the funds to meet the operational and maintenance costs of the LIS, he said. The farmers under the Ayacut submitted a representation to district collector Prashanthi, seeking release of water to the ayacut. They said less than 1tmc of water is enough to save their crops. Our lands have been acquired for the LIS, they pointed out and demanded that the government include their ayacut under the Godavari command area ayacut. Anaparti MLA Nallamilli Ramakrishna Reddy said huge amounts of sand got struck in the pipelines and this should be removed. He had brought the issue to the notice of the government, he said, adding, The pipelines and the pumps would be repaired and water will be supplied to the ayacut soon with NABARD funds. Reddy said he would make efforts to provide water to farmers on a permanent basis under the Venkatanagaram Ayacut.

Hyderabad, Vijayawada NH-65 expansion works to commence in 3 months

Hyderabad: The works related to expansion of NH-65 into a six-lane from Hyderabad to Vijayawada would commence in three months and necessary steps would be taken to complete them at the earliest, said Roads and Buildings Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy here on Monday. He said plans have also been drawn to make the NH-65 into an accident free highway and reach Vijayawada in two hours, he said. The Minister further stated that the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has invited tenders for the construction of the northern part of Regional Ring Road (RRR) from Sangareddy to Choutuppal covering 161.518 kms, with a total estimated cost of Rs.7104.06 crore. Tenders would be opened on February 14. The Minister said a letter was written to the Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman requesting to accord priority for construction of a port at Veliminedu in Nalgonda connecting Bandar and Kakinada ports in Andhra Pradesh from Gundrampally, which is nearer to RRR. Venkatreddy slammed the Opposition parties for misleading farmers that they would lose their lands as part of acquisition process for construction of a flyover between Tirumalagiri Village and Suryapet. The Opposition parties did not mend its ways and continued to spread false information in spite of losing deposits in the Assembly elections, he said. He found fault with these parties for creating unnecessary confusion among farmers that they would lose their land as part of acquisition like earlier for construction of the flyover between Arvapalli and Damacharla road. The Minister clarified that a survey was taken up as part of junction improvement to prevent accidents at Arvapalli and not for the construction of a flyover. He categorically said that no one would lose their land for the junction improvement works.

Andhra Pradesh: Big Fish in Cockfight Net Escape, Though Police Book 2,050 Cases

The organisers of cockfights suggested that it should be developed as tourism sport as nearly Rs 600 crore business would take place at the venues. The organisers of cockfights suggested that it should be developed as tourism sport as nearly Rs 600 crore business would take place at the venues. Kakinada: Police belonging to Kakinada, Dr. B.R. Konaseema, Eluru and West Godavari districts registered 2,050 cases against nearly 3,000 people on charges of organising and participating in gambling, including cockfights, gundata and playing cards. The general impression these arrests have created is that big fish always get away, while police catch hold of the small fish to show that they are active. There have been many organisers who spent crores on organising the cockfights and recovered five to six times of their investment. None of them have been booked. When questioned, police maintained that they had no information about locations where betting stakes had been high. A gambler in Tadepalligudem took the largest bet of Rs 1.25 crore, which went viral on social media and live telecast in some television and YouTube channels. No case has been filed against either the organiser, the bettor or prized cock owners in the Tadepalligudem rooster fight. Tadepalligudem circle inspector Subrahmanyam said they have booked seven cases related to cockfight. However, he said, no case has been booked against those who could be seen betting on the TVs, as these locations could not be identified. In Karapa mandal of Kakinada district, an organiser announced a Jeep as a gift to the prize cock that defeats the maximum number of cocks. He went on to present the jeep to the cock owner. In the same mandal, another organiser presented three Bullet bikes to owners of winning roosters. None of the organisers in Karapa mandal have been booked. Similarly, no cases have been booked against the major organisers in Undi, Bhimavaram, Chintalapudi, Denduluru, Unguturu and other areas, where MLAs, MPs and other political leaders attended the cockfights.

Betting frenzy in Tadepalligudem; 1.25 crore wagered on cockfight

A view of Cock fight den at Edupugallu village on the occasion of Pongal celebrations in Krishna district on Sunday.(Image:DC) A view of Cock fight den at Edupugallu village on the occasion of Pongal celebrations in Krishna district on Sunday.(Image:DC) Kakinada : The four-day cockfight season during this Sankranthi concluded on Thursday. While cockfights traditionally end on Kanuma, the third day of the festival, some organisers extended the events to the fourth day this year. Cockfights were conducted at Mokkala Thippa and other villages in Katrenikona mandal on Thursday, attracting large crowds as people rushed to the grounds upon hearing the news. During this season, some organisers rewarded prize-winning rooster owners with gifts such as Jeeps, Bullet bikes, and other items. The Tadepalligudem ground gained a reputation as the largest single betting ground. On Wednesday, a cockfight was organised at the P.V. Ramaiah ground in Tadepalligudem. G. Prabhakar and R. Rathayya placed bets of `1.25 crore each on their prize cocks. Many others also placed bets on the match. Ultimately, Prabhakar's cock emerged victorious. The organisers even employed lady bouncers at the cockfight grounds to manage the crowd, making it a special attraction. In addition to cockfights, gambling games like Gundata, Kothata, and playing cards brought in significant earnings this year, with betting amounts running into hundreds of crores. In some villages, banned recording dances were conducted without any interference from law enforcement. In Ponnamanda, Pasarlapudi, Mamidikuduru, Magatapalli, and other villages, recording dances entertained and energized the youth and local residents. Many people from cities like Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Mumbai participated in the betting, with some losing lakhs of rupees. Several individuals returned to their homes empty-handed, having lost their savings in the betting frenzy.

Eluru District Secures PM Award for Excellence in Public Administration

Kakinada: Eluru district has won the prestigious Prime Ministers Award for Excellence in Public Administration for 2023. This award, instituted by the Government of India, recognises and rewards extraordinary and innovative initiatives by districts of the central and state governments. It acknowledges the performance of district collectors in implementing priority programmes, driving innovations, and fostering development in aspirational districts. The Central government evaluated the districts integrated development in 2021, and Eluru was selected for its exemplary achievements. Following its designation as a new district, the then District Collector, V. Prasanna Venkatesh, served for two years and focused on delivering citizen services and implementing government schemes. As part of sustainable development, he introduced the Akshaja scheme, which prioritised the health of pregnant and lactating women, addressing issues like haemoglobin deficiency. This initiative was instrumental in advancing good governance in the district. Eluru is among the 16 districts across the country to receive this prestigious award.

1600 Acres of Land Identified for Industrialisation in Eluru District

KAKINADA: Some 1600 acres of land has been identified in Eluru district for various entrepreneurs and Industrial parks, covering every constituency. This was stated on Thursday by civil supplies minister and district-incharge minister Nadendla Manohar, after he participated in the district development review meeting in Eluru. The minister told the media that the Land Bank was being created for the industrialists. A team would be headed by the district collector to help those intending to set up their units in the district. Guidelines would be laid down for this by March 15. He said the new industrial units would provide thousands of employment opportunities to the people in the district. Officials would conduct Grama Sabhas in the villages under Kolleru lake to look into their problems. Basic infrastructure facilities should be created in those villages. A coordination committee would be appointed to fix the borders for Kolleru lake with the forest and revenue officials at the fifth contour. The committee would draw a map for it. He said the Eluru Government General Hospital would be reformed completely. On R&R package issues of Polavaram Irrigation project victims, Manohar said this would be given to every victim without fail. Grama Sabhas would be held at Kukkunuru and Velerupadu mandals for this purpose. Housing minister Parthasaradhi said thatthe land acquisition process should be completed soon for Chintalapudi Lift Irrigation Scheme and steps must be taken to remove the weed in the canals and drains. Eluru MP, Mahesh Kumar, said the Eluru district is having favourable conditions to establish food processing units and the officials should encourage such industrialists to set up their units there. MLC Venkata Ramana complained that ponds in 14,000 acres were lost in the Kolleru operation time, but the farmers did not get any compensation for this. Denduluru MLA Chintamaneni Prabhakar said polluted water from Krishna Canal is being distributed to the Denduluru constituency and this should be rectified immediately. He said a pollution-free project should be taken up in 350 acres in Krishna Canal.

Sankranti affects air quality in parts of AP

Vijayawada: Ambient air quality had been a cause of concern in Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada and Rajamahendravaram during the last four days owing to the Sankranti festivities. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has mentioned that the air quality has been moderate in Visakhapatnam. It registered an AQI of 203 (PM2.5) on January 12, 195 (PM2.5) on January 13; 111 (PM2.5) on January 14 and 110 (PM2.5) on January 15. Vijayawada recorded 119 (NO2) at its Kanuru station on January 12 and 135 (NO2) on January 13 while the AQI had been satisfactory in the remaining two days. In Rajamahendravaram, it had been 172 (PM2.5) on January 12 and 170 (PM2.5) on January 13, which can be considered as moderate to poor. On January 15, the AQI recorded at Kakinada had been 102 (PM10), which is considered as moderate, while Anantapur, Bobbili, Chittoor, Eluru, Guntur, Kadapa, Kurnool, Nellore, Ongole, Pydibheemavaram, Rajamahendravaram, Srikakulam, Tirumala, Tirupati, Vijayawada, Vizianagaram, Yerraguntla and Velagapudi recorded the AQI as satisfactory. Anantapur (Court Road) and Tirupati recorded the AQI to be good. According to the CPCBs health statement for AQI, if the code is good, it causes minimal impact on health. If it is satisfactory, it causes minor breathing discomfort to sensitive people. If it is moderate, it causes breathing discomfort to people with lungs, asthma and heart diseases. AP Pollution Control Board senior environmental scientist Sree Rajani said, With a lot of activity all around due to Sankranti festival, the air quality has witnessed a drastic change in some parts of the state. Fog further polluting the air, she added.

Cock fights: Betting of Rs 700 crore in Godavari districts

During Sankranti time the banned cock fights and Jallikattu resurface too. During Sankranti time the banned cock fights and Jallikattu resurface too. Kakinada :The gambling in traditional sports like cockfight, Gundata, playing of cards etc were held in a grand manner this time despite the high court ban on these games. The police conducted a series of raids on the cockfight dens but remained silent on Monday, the first day of Bhogi. The cockfights started early in the morning in erstwhile Godavari districts like Eluru, Kakinada, BR Ambedkar Konaseema, East and West in a grand manner. Last year, under the YSRC rule, the police did not allow cockfights till the afternoon of Bhogi Day. It was after exertion of strong pressure that the police allowed the game at the last minute. However, then the police did not allow Gundata tables, a pure gambling game. This year, doors have opened for all gambling games and also for dances in several places. On the first day, it is said that betting of nearly `700 crore was held, including Gundata and playing of cards amid the serving of food and liquor. This time, the police were conspicuous by their absence. The cockfights were organised in all the villages this time. Large numbers of professionals, techies, businessmen and others thronged the major cockfight grounds. Surprisingly, this year, hundreds of people came in from districts like Kurnool, Prakasam, Nellore, Kadapa, Khammam and other parts of Telangana to the cockfight grounds. They came by cars and other vehicles. The women, in particular, enjoyed the sight at the cockfight grounds and tasted various food items with enthusiasm. Several MLAs and MPs participated in the cockfight evens. Kakinada Lok Sabha member Uday Srinivas was at an event in Pithapuram and U Kothapalli areas, Mummidivaram MLA Datla Subba Raju in Mummidivaram, and Kakinada Rural MLA Pantham Venkateswara Rao (Nanaji) in Karapa. According to sources, in Kakinada Rural, there was betting of `100 crore, West Godavari, East Godavari and Konaseema districts had nearly `600 crore. The big cockfight grounds were at Peda Amiram, Karapa, Gollavanithippa, Unguturu, Veeravasaram, Kamavarapukota, Kalarayinigudem, Chintalapudi, Tanuku, Muramalla, Mummidivaram, Yedurlanka and other villages. Cockfights were organised in small villages too. Notably, in some of the cockfight grounds, there was no betting. The organisers said they spent nearly `10 lakh to prepare the grounds. According to sources, there were no betting gamblers at 30 grounds. These wore a deserted look. Some of the grounds were closed by afternoon. There were clashes in some areas. The Gundata organisers did not allow betting in `100 and `200. They allowed betting beyond `500. This led to clashes between Gundata organisers and the betting lot. Clashes erupted in the cockfight grounds at Bayyannagudem in Koyyalagudem mandal. The participants and some of the organisers created flutter and beat each other with wooden logs. Some 12 persons were injured. On the second day on Tuesday, marking Sankranti, betting can be held in a grand manner.

AP transfers five IPS officers

Vijayawada: The Andhra Pradesh government has transferred five IPS officers and posted them at new stations. Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand issued a GO here on Monday. Navjyoti Mishra, assault commander, Greyhounds, is transferred and posted as ASP at Chintapalli. Manda Javali Alfons, assault commander, Greyhounds, is transferred and posted as ASP at Nandyal. Manoj Ramanatha Hegde, assault commander, Greyhounds, is transferred and posted as ASP at Rajampet. Patil Devraj Manish, assault commander, Greyhounds, is transferred and posted as ASP at Kakinada, and Rohit Kumar Chaudhary, assault commander, Greyhounds, is transferred and posted as ASP at Tadipatri.

Bhogi festival celebrated grandly

Kakinada: Bhogi, the first day of the three-day Sankranthi festival, was celebrated with great gaiety and enthusiasm in Godavari districts like Kakinada, Eluru, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema, East and West Godavari districts on Monday. Deputy Speaker and Undi MLA K. Raghu Ramakrihsnam Raju and Bhimili MLA Ganta Srinivasa Rao celebrated the festival at Peda Amiram village near Bhimavaram of West Godavari by dropping prize cocks without tying knives, as a mark of traditional sport. The people of rural areas, as well as cities and towns, woke up early in the morning and lit the Bhogi fires. The people have celebrated the festival with their relatives, and different types of dishes were served. At Amalapuram, a family served 460 varieties of food items to their son-in-law as the new bridegrooms arrived at the festival at their in-laws house. The elders and children gathered at the Bhogi fires, warming themselves up for the festival. People disposed of their waste items in the Bhogi fires. The children threw cow dung cakes into the fires. The devotees thronged to the temples. In Vyshnava Temples, Goda Devi Kalyanam was performed in a great manner. At Vadapalli, more than 2,000 youths participated in the Goda Kalyanam programme, seeking the blessings of the God for their marriage. Anaparthi MLA Nallamalli Ramakrishna Reddy participated in Sankranti sambrarlu programmes and distributed prizes to the winners of Rangoli, kabaddi, and other games at Illapalli, Rangapuram, Konkuduru, Kuthukuluru, Komaripalem, and other villages. The cities like Kakinada, Rajamahendravaram, and Eluru and towns have worn a rural look to mark the Bhogi festival.

Son-in-laws first Sankranti in Hyderabad celebrated with a feast of 130 dishes

It is a routine custom in India for son-in-laws to get pampered like no other when visiting their in-laws. Mallikarjun, a resident of Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh witnessed his share of the royal treatment when he visited his in-laws, Kantri and Kalpana, for the first time since his marriage with their daughter to celebrate Sankranti Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Andhra Son-in-Law Amazed by 130 Dishes Prepared by In-Laws for Sankranti Feast

Hyderabad: An Andhra son-in-law, visiting Hyderabad for the first time after his marriage to celebrate the Sankranti festival, was left astounded by the hospitality of his in-laws. Kantri and Kalpana, a couple from Shardanagar near Saroor Nagar, prepared a grand feast with 130 varieties of dishes to delight their son-in-law from Kakinada. The spread included both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, along with pulihora, bagara, and various food items, offering him a true taste of Telangana cuisine. Kranti and Kalpana's elder daughter married Mallikarjun from Kakinada just four months ago, and this feast was a special gesture to celebrate his first Sankranti with them.

Kakinada Police Dismantle Arrangements at Cockfight Grounds

Kakinada: Kakinada district police officials on Sunday dismantled arrangements made at several grounds in various villages that had been prepared for staging cockfights. They went on to warn owners of these grounds that legal action will be taken against them if the grounds are allowed to be used for any activities that have been banned by the authorities. Following reports of grounds being prepared for cockfights, Kakinada superintendent of police Vikrant Patil ordered dismantling of structures put up ahead of the cockfights at Thimmapuram, Sarpavaram, Karapa, Pedapudi, Gollapalem, Koringa, Indrapalem, Pithapuram Town, Pithapuram Rural, U. Kothapalli and Gollaprolu, Peddapuram, Samalkot, Jaggampeta, Gandepalli, Kirlampudi, Prathipadu, Annavaram, Rowhtulapudi, Yeleswaram, Tuni Rural, Thondangi, Kotananduru mandals. After dismantling of the structures, police served notices to the land owners, cautioning them against allowing their properties to be used for cockfights. Police have also bound over those who fabricate knives that are tied to the feet of roosters ahead of the cockfights. Vikrant Patil said they are using drones to trace grounds that are being prepared for cockfights. Nuzvid circle inspector Satya Srinivas said they are organising campaigns in various villages against the organising of any gambling activities. Nidamarru circle inspector M. Subhash arrested M. Brahmanandam of China Ramachandrapuram village in Ganapavaram mandal and seized 1,300 cockfight knives from him.

No Festive Cheer for Poor, Says Kannababu

Kakinada : Former Kakinada Rural MLA and YSRC Kakinada district president Kurasala Kannababu criticised the alliance government in the state for failing to bring festive cheer to the people, particularly the poor, during this Sankranti season. He pointed to skyrocketing prices of essential commodities, increased electricity tariffs, and the lack of welfare schemes, which have left the poor unable to celebrate the festival. Speaking to the media on Sunday, Kannababu accused the ruling coalition of celebrating Sankranti only among its leaders while ignoring the common people. He alleged that flagship programs like Ammavodi and Rythu Bharosa have been neglected, and schemes like Talliki Vandanam delayed. He contrasted this with the YSRC tenure, during which welfare funds were disbursed before Sankranti, enabling even the poorest households to celebrate the festival. Kannababu also raised concerns about transparency in TTD operations, questioning the involvement of unqualified individuals and the misuse of visitor data. He demanded accountability and explanations from the government. Refuting the claims of Human Resources Minister N. Lokesh regarding industrial stagnation, Kannababu highlighted YSRC's achievements, including the Greenko Renewable Energy Project and the establishment of multiple industrial clusters despite pandemic challenges. He dismissed Lokeshs allegations that industrialists fear investing in the state as baseless and unsubstantiated. Kannababu expressed concern that rural families, once supported by YSRCs welfare initiatives, are now facing financial distress and despair under the current government.

Kakinada police to deploy drones to prevent rooster fights

Andhra Pradesh: Stolen Gold and Silver Ornaments Handed Over to 23 Victims

Kakinada: Eluru superintendent of police K. Pratap Shiva Kishore took an initiative to hand over the recovered gold and silver ornaments to 23 victims under various police station limits. In this process, the victims need not go to courts. Previously, the victims should be presented before court, and they have to claim the ornaments themselves. Now, under 106, Bharat Nyaya Samhitha, the victim needs to go to the court to take their stolen properties. The police will get the permission from the court for handing over their stolen property and then they will give it to the victims. Kishore told the media at Eluru on Sunday that on the end of December, a gang of thieves was apprehended. Nearly 55 theft cases were registered in 2020, 2021, and 2022. The police recovered 2,206.6 gram of gold and 9.40 kg of silver ornaments and Rs 1 lakh in cash from the thieves. However, he said that it is often challenging and expensive for victims to approach the courts to reclaim the recovered gold and silver ornaments and cash. Due to lack of proper awareness, in many cases, the recovered property remains stuck in the court proceedings or at police stations. He said that to address the issue and ensure swift and cost-free justice for the victims by leveraging the amendments in the new laws, a programme was launched in the district by the police department. In the aforementioned cases, the gold and silver ornaments and cash recovered in connection with the 23 cases were handed over to the victims on Sunday without any cost or delay.

Sankranti rush spikes RTC, flight fares, rush at railway stations

Hyderabad: Airlines, RTC and private travels companies and taxis hiked fares ahead of people leaving for their homes for Sankranti. The TGSRTC, operating 6,432 special buses, is charging one-and-a-half times the usual fare on it specials. Private operators are charging up to Rs 2,000 for AC sleeper buses to Vijayawada from Hyderabad, against the norm of about 900. Tickets on private non-AC services were being sold at 1,500 apiece. TGSRTC officials said the revised fares for special services during festivals were in line with Government Order (GO) No. 16 (2003), which permits higher ticket prices based on minimum diesel costs and additional maintenance needs. Buses often travel back empty or with fewer passengers, TGSRTC officials reasoned. A total of 59 special trains are being operated from Hyderabad city to destinations such as Narsapur, Kakinada, and Srikakulam. Special fares being charged on many services is higher than normal. The price of flight ticket to AP went through the roof, as passengers headed to Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada and the temple town of Tirupati. A flight ticket to Visakhapatnam on Sunday was priced at 12,357, compared to 5,741 on January 13 and 3,934 on January 14. On another airline, a flight to Vijayawada would set the passenger back by 9,773 on January 12, a sharp contrast to 7,610 on January 13 and 2,598 on January 14. Non-stop flights from Hyderabad to Tirupati on January 12 were priced at 6,686, while one airline charged 7,484. Prices for the same journey drop significantly in the following days, starting from 4,585. On January 11, flights from Hyderabad to Visakhapatnam were priced at 13,536 on one airline, while tickets to Vijayawada were listed at 8,367 on another.

AP to Witness Multiple Rooster Gladiators in Same Arena This Sankranti

Vijayawada: During Sankranti 2025, several parts of Andhra Pradesh are scheduled to witness the fiercest cockfights for three days from January 13 to January 15, wherein crores of rupees are going to be bet despite efforts of authorities to control them. In a unique Jodu Pandalu attempt, organisers intend to release 10 pairs of prized cocks with knives attached to their feet into a single arena, unlike just a pair fighting it, possibly till death, during the previous years. Gamblers are expected to bet nearly Rs 25 lakh on each winning cock, while punters will raise the stakes at least three fold to Rs 75 lakh depending on the trend of the fight. Organisers are making elaborate arrangements for the conduct of cockfights by erecting huge pandals, installing flood lights, arranging chairs and other amenities, mainly in the erstwhile Godavari districts, Krishna, north Andhra and part of Rayalaseema region. Liquor will be on sale to enthuse the crowds into raising stakes. However, police are doing their best in preventing cockfights, which are legally prohibited. They are booking cases, seizing roosters and their special knives, and binding over organisers. They are also using drones to identify areas where arrangements are being made for cockfights, so that they can intervene. Said West Godavari SP Adnan Nayeem Asmi, We have identified some areas in the district where cockfights are likely to be held during the three days of the Sankranti festival. We are advising people against indulging in illegal activities. They can celebrate the festival by organising traditional games, even cockfights without knives and money, without causing any law and order problems. However, festival enthusiasts are finding fault with the authorities, as section 144 has been promulgated in various districts to prevent assembly of people in large numbers. Kakinada-based Animal Rescue Agency founder member Gopal R. Surabathula said, We have been fighting against conduct of cockfights involving knives and money for long. We got a stay order on this from the AP High Court way back in 2017 itself. But many policemen, including officers, will go on leave to celebrate the festival. In some cases, there will be no one even to receive complaints on cockfights and take action. There are reports that political leaders promise enthusiasts that they will prevail upon the government or officials to allow such fights for Sankranti festival. As a result, the government too goes soft on the matter. The dead roosters after the fights are either taken by their owners for self-consumption or given away to their close friends and kin. The meat of these roosters is expected to be very tasty, as they are fed dry fruits and kept fit and strong, so that they can battle it out. VIP guests, especially from the tinsel world, are not expected to turn up for the fights this season.

Stampede Deaths: Pawan Asks TTD Chairman, EO to Tender Apology

Vijayawada: Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has asked TTD functionaries the board chairman, executive officer, additional executive officer and board members -- to tender an apology to the people for the death of six pilgrims in Wednesday nights stampede in Tirupati. The death of devotees pained me a lot. This happened when our newly elected government was celebrating the first Sankranti festival, he told a public meeting at Pithapuram in Kakinada district on Friday. This government was elected by the people. We should be accountable to the people, he said. I tendered an apology to the people for these deaths, even as some people who are a part of the government committed mistakes, he said. PK said TTD chairman BR Naidu, EO Shyamala Rao and AEO Venkaiah Choudhary were in high positions and there is nothing wrong on their part tendering an apology to the people by owning the moral responsibility for the deaths. If the TTD top brass tender an apology, the deceased may not come back to life. Yet, it would be in the fitness of things if they come before the people and accept the responsibility for the lapse, he said. He exhorted the youth to be mindful of the painful situation before them and stop shouting loudly in joy after seeing him. He called upon TTD officials to stop giving VIP treatment to leaders and advised them to instead focus more on providing better services to the common people. The six-months honeymoon period for the new government was over, he asserted. With regard to Pithapuram assembly segment, the Dy CM called upon the police to strictly maintain law and order, and take to task the youths who trouble women and are getting addicted to ganja. Earlier in the day, the Dy CM inaugurated 12,500 Gokulas set up across the state as part of Palle Panduranga-Panchayat week-long programme at Pithapuram. He called for development of dairy farmers on the lines of those in New Zealand. He vowed all support to these farmers to see such a growth in their dairy business. The newly set up Gokulas would help the small dairy farmers earn Rs 10,000 to Rs 12,000 per month, he said. He said the NDA government was clearing wages to 97 lakh workers under MGNREGA to the order of Rs 5,193 promptly, except for the pending wages of Rs 2,000 crore. When the Dy CM was proceeding to Pithapuram from Rajahmundry airport by road, he stopped at Mukundavaram village of Rangampeta mandal, where two youths -- Charan and Manikanta-- were killed in a road accident. The youths were returning home on a bike after attending the pre-release event of Game Changer. PK spoke to their relatives and inquired about the incident with officials

50 people died in stampede in past one decade, but no remedial action

Kakinada: Nearly 50 persons lost their lives during the past 12 years in several stampede events on festive occasions, including the six devotees killed in the Tirupati incident, records show. More surprisingly, successive governments so far took no serious note, and there were no remedial actions or preventive steps. With the authorities adopting a casual approach when huge crowds are gathered, innocent people are losing their lives. The meetings of prime minister, chief minister etc are however well-guarded with maximum police cover. Yet, during the first day of the Godavari Pushkaralu on July 15, 2015, as many as 30 persons died. This was when chief minister Chandrababu Naidu took a holy dip in Pushkar Ghat, after leaving the VIP Ghat. In the Pushkar Ghat, thousands of people waited to take a bath. Meanwhile there was a huge stampede and fatalities. The government appointed the Justice Somayajulu Commission to probe the incident. But, the commission messed up the probe and avoided fixing the blame on any government official including the district collector and the police authorities. The commission simply said that the spiritual speakers and almanac writers misguided the devotees vis--vis the timing of the holy dip. After this report, the government closed the issue in a huff. Prior to this incident, in 2012, three persons died at Srisailam. They were in the queue line for darshan of the Lord, experienced suffocation and dehydration and died. In December 2022, during the YSRC rule, the opposition Telugu Desam launched a campaign, the ''Idemi Kharma''. Chandababu Naidu as TD chief attended the meeting at Kandukuru in Prakasam district. There was a stampede and eight persons died. The party announced ex-gratia to the families of the deceased, but no action was taken against the errant persons. On January 2, 2023, Telugu Desam held a Saree distribution programme in Gunturu. Four persons including some women experienced suffocation and fell into a drainage line and died. The Vykunta Ekadasi Maha Festival is celebrated across the two Telugu states and all Vyshnava temples are making the arrangments. In Tirupati, huge crowds of devotees are coming to Tirumala to take the holy ''Uttara Dwara Darshan''. Though the officials know there will be huge crowd formation, they took things easy. On January 8 this year, six devotees lost their lives at the ticket counters following a stampede. Retired ASP, G Visweswara Rao, said crowd management is the job of the police; and law and order should be the concern of the district magistrate or divisional magistrate. A strong plan should have been drawn by the cops to avoid such stampedes, he felt.

Making waves at 52: Syamala Goli on her 150 kilometres swim from Visakhapatnam to Kakinada

Syamala Goli achieved the extraordinary feat of swimming in the Bay of Bengal from Visakhapatnam to Kakinada coast in a test of endurance

Tirupati police seize ganja worth Rs25.5 lakh

Tirupati: Tirupati district police arrested six individuals and seized 100 kilograms of ganja worth Rs 25.5 lakh in two separate operations conducted on Wednesday. In the first operation, Tada police acted on a tip-off and intercepted a car near Sri City Zero Point early in the morning. The team, led by CI Murali Krishna and SI Kondappa Naidu, arrested two suspects, K. Shahrukh Khan, 24, and G. Arul, 24, both from Gummadipudi. They were attempting to transport 28 kilograms of ganja to Chennai. The seized contraband and vehicle were valued at Rs 9.5 lakh. In the second operation, Chillakur police apprehended four suspects at Kota Cross Road, Kadivedu village, recovering 72 kilograms of ganja and two vehicles worth Rs 16 lakh. The arrested individuals were P. Giri Babu, 41, from Puttur, Mohan Madan Kumar, 30, from Tiruvallur, P. Ajay, 24, and M. Kirubakaran, 18, both from Gummadipudi. During questioning, the suspects admitted to procuring the ganja from Tuni in Kakinada district, planning to sell it in Tamil Nadu for profit. Sharing the details of the actions carried out by teams from the Tada and Chillakur police stations, SP L. Subba Rayudu revealed that Shahrukh Khan had a criminal history, including involvement in murder and NDPS cases. He reiterated the departments commitment to combating drug smuggling and appealed to the public to report illegal activities through the police helpline.

Pawan Kalyan announces 5 lakh ex gratia for two youths killed in road mishap in Kakinada

The two youths died in a road mishap while returning from the pre-release event of the movie Game Changer

Vijaysai Reddy appears before ED on Kakinada sea ports issue

Hyderabad: The YSRCP Rajya Sabha MP, V Vijaysai Reddy, appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the Kakinada SeaPorts irregularities on Monday. Reddy claimed he was not involved in the case in any way, and that a fake complaint was lodged with ED against him. ED officials questioned him for six hours at its office in Basheerbagh. After the ED questioning, Vijaysai Reddy told the media that the ED asked him at least 25 questions in connection with the irregularities. I have nothing to do with these issues and no knowledge about the case. Even as I am a YSRCP MP, I was not related to the government body and not taking decisions. It was a false complaint. I asked ED officials to cross-examine the details with complainant Karnati Venkateswara Rao to ascertain facts, the Rajya Sabha MP said. AP CID officials registered the case based on a complaint lodged by Venkateswara Rao. Based onthe FIR, ED officials initiated a probe. I asked the ED officials to establish call data records to check the call data of me. I will also take a pledge on the Tirumala Tirupati Venkateswara Swamy to prove my innocence. I have no knowledge about the Chartered accounts company Santhanam that was in touch with the state government and I explained the same to the ED officials, Vijaysai Reddy said. Vijaysai Reddy also stated that his daughter was married to Sarath Chandra Reddy, a businessman, and that he has no business-related transactions with the family of Chandra Reddy.

Shandy market abuzz with prize cocks

Kakinada :The shandy market in villages and agency areas are bustling with prize cocks as the Sankranti festival approaches. Many people are flocking to these markets to purchase cocks, which they rear at home until the festival. During the third day of the festival, known as Kanuma, these prize cocks are celebrated, often raised on nutritious food. These cocks are also used for cockfights, particularly for second-grade betting in semi-urban areas. On Monday, numerous prize cocks were displayed at the sandy market in Gokavaram, with prices ranging from 5,000 to 15,000. Buyers noted that the cocks are used both for cockfights and for cooking. Transactions at the markets are progressing briskly. However, the main prize cocks are usually sold directly by breeders in their local areas. Many regions, including Konaseema, Gokavaram, Rajamahendravaram Rural, Bhimavaram, Mandapeta, and others, are known for rearing prize cocks with a focus on providing them with nutritious diets.

Green ammonia plant at Kakinada, 500 CBG plants by RIL among renewable energy projects cleared by State govt.

Solar power plant proposals in Nandyal, YSR and Kurnool districts also get the nod

Two Ram Charan Fans die in road mishap after Game Changer Rajahmundry event

Tragedy struck after the pre-release event of Game Changer in Rajahmundry on Saturday, as two diehard fans of Ram Charan lost their lives while returning home. The event, attended by Ram Charan and Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, was meant to be a celebration but ended in sorrow. The victims, Arava Manikanta and Thokada Charan from Gaigolupadu in Kakinada were riding home on a bike with friends when a van traveling in the opposite direction collided with them. Despite immediate medical attention, both succumbed to their injuries. Authorities have launched an investigation and registered a case regarding the accident. Producer Dil Raju expressed deep grief over the unfortunate incident, stating that such losses during moments of joy are truly heartbreaking. He assured full support to the victims' families, announcing a financial aid of 5 lakh for each family. As per reports, Pawan Kalyan will also contribute Rs 5 lakh to each bereaved family, extending his heartfelt condolences. Earlier, Pawan Kalyan at the pre-release event said that he was a bit anxious after witnessing such a massive turnout. He urged mega fans to be safe and take care of themselves. I am a bit tense these days and I want all our fans to be safe. I urge you all to take care of yourselves, return home safely, and avoid any kind of jostling and stampedes. You have come here for some fun, so it shouldnt turn untoward, he cautioned his cheering fans.

Game Changer event attendees killed in ADB Road crash, Pawan announces ex gratia

Kakinada : Two young men, Arav Mani Kanth and Tokada Charan, residents of Gaigolupadu in Kakinada district, tragically lost their lives in a road accident on the ADB road between Kakinada and Rajahmundry on Saturday night. The accident occurred when their motorcycle was struck by a speeding vehicle while they were returning home. Expressing deep sorrow, AP Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. The ADB road, a crucial artery connecting Kakinada and Rajahmundry, has been in a state of disrepair for the past five years due to neglect by the previous government. The lack of proper maintenance and inadequate street lighting has significantly increased the risk of accidents on this vital route, posted Kalyan on X. While the current government has initiated repair work on the road, this tragic incident highlights the urgency of addressing the safety concerns of road users. The victims, who were returning from the pre-release event of Game Changer movie, were repeatedly advised to exercise caution during their journey. On behalf of the Jana Sena, Kalyan announced that financial assistance of Rs. 5 lakh each will be provided to the bereaved families. Furthermore, the deputy CM pledged to further help the families.

SCR Will Run 52 Additional Special Trains for Sankranti Festival Season

Hyderabad : South Central Railway said it would run 52 additional special trains between various destinations from January 6 to 19 for the Sankranti festival season. These services would be operated on the Cherlapalli-Tirupati, Vikarabad-Kakinada Town, Kakinada Town-Cherlapalli, Kacheguda-Tirupati, Cherlapalli-Narsapur, Secunderabad-Kakinada Town, Charlapalli-Srikakulam Rd and Kacheguda-Srikakulam Rd routes.

3 of Family Killed in Gruesome Medchal Road Accident

Hyderabad: Three members of a family were killed, while a fourth is battling for life after a lorry rammed into their bike near Medchal check post at 3.30 pm on Sunday. According to Medchal station house officer A. Satyanarayana, the deceased have been identified as Bullabbai, 37, Lavanya, 30, and a seven-year-old girl. The couple's four-year-old son is in critical condition in a private hospital. A native of Kakinada, Bullabbai worked as a street-side breakfast vendor. On Sunday morning, Lavanya and her husband were travelling to meet her friend, who resides in Yellampet. While they were near the Medchal checkpost, when the bike was moving towards the left, a Nagaland-registered container truck suddenly swerved left and ran over the two-wheeler. Bullabbai, Lavanya and their daughter died on the spot. Medchal police, who were informed through a dial 100 call, rushed to the spot and shifted the boy to a hospital. His condition remains critical. Police said they are going through CCTV footage at the location, and conducting further investigation. Meanwhile, bodies of the three deceased were shifted to the Gandhi Hospital mortuary for postmortem.

Two youths die after attending Game Changer movie event

Kakinada: Two youths, Arava Manikanta and Thokada Charan from Gygolupadu area in Kakinada, died late on Saturday night after attending the pre-release event of the movie Game Changer , held at Rajamahendravaram. According to Rangampeta Sub-Inspector T. Krishna Sai, a group of youths from Kakinada attended the event, which was graced by Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and Cine Hero Ram Charan. While returning to Kakinada on their bike, the youths were struck by a van travelling in the opposite direction. Manikanta was taken to the Area Hospital in Peddapuram by 108 Ambulance, where doctors declared him dead. Charan was shifted to a corporate hospital in Kakinada, where he succumbed to his injuries on the night of Saturday. Rangampeta police have registered a case.

Despite ban, preparations on for cockfights in AP

Vijayawada : With Sankranthi round the corner, organisers of cock fights are making the arrangements to conduct the betting shows involving crores of rupees at several places in the state. This is despite the ban imposed by the AP High Court in 2016. Areas like Ampapuram near here in Krishna district, Gudivada, Bhimavaram, Konaseema etc are popular for cockfights. The state DGP issued an order in November last, directing the unit officers to take necessary action against the organisers of cockfights. The Animal Welfare Board of India too addressed a letter to its state unit, citing the complaints against cockfights during the Sankranti festival. It sought appropriate action to stop such activities. The state directorate of animal husbandry has also issued a memo to officials, seeking formation of teams to stop the cockfights by acting in coordination with the district collector, the SP and the revenue authorities. Animal husbandry officials formed mandal- level teams comprising an SI, an assistant veterinary surgeon and MPDO to keep a check on plans being made for cockfights and invoke legal provisions to control their activities. West Godavari animal husbandry joint director Govinda Raju said, We have started forming mandal teams. Officials would visit places where cockfights are planned and attempt to stop them. Political patronage for such gangs has been a constraint in the officials attempt to stop cockfights. Based on a recent direction from the DGP, officials started checks on cockfights and bound over people and seized cocks rserved for the shows. They realised a sum of `7 lakh from them in the last few days. Narasapuram DSP Sri Veda said, We are on the job to avoid conduct of cockfights by binding over suspects and seizing the cocks. Despite all these efforts, the organisers are bent on conducting cockfights, saying that the Sankranti festival is the ideal period for the show. Andhra settlers from all over the world come back to their homes in the villages and towns to celebrate the Sankranti festival. Pithapuram former MLA SVSN Varma kick-started the cockfights in the assembly segment represented by deputy CM Pawan Kalyan on Thursday. However, the cocks were not tied with knives. Animal rights activists stress the need for political will to stop cockfights. Founder of the Animal Rescue Agency based in Kakinada, Gopal R Surabathula, said, We have been pleading for booking cases under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act against the organisers, land owners and those who provide infrastructure to conduct the cockfights. Activists say the Godavari islands are also being readied for conducting the cockfights this time.

SCR to run 52 Special Trains for Sankranti

Hyderabad: South Central Railway has announced that 52 additional trains will operate during the Sankranti rush. These trains will run from Secunderabad, Kacheguda, and Cherlapalli railway stations in the city to destinations such as Kakinada, Narsapur, Tirupati, and Srikakulam. The special trains will be available from January 6 to 18. South Central Railway has issued an official statement regarding the schedule.

Haryana Governor applauds 52-yr-old Goli Shyamala for remarkable 150-Km swim in Bay of Bengal

Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Shrimati Goli Shyamala, 52, a native of Samarlakota in Kakinada district, Andhra Pradesh, who currently resides in Hyderabad, for her extraordinary achievement of ...

AP: Kadiam to Emerge as Tourism Hub

Kakinada: Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh is spearheading efforts to transform Kadiam into a tourism hub, leveraging its famed nurseries and natural resources. Rajamahendravaram Rural MLA Gorantla Buchaiah Chowdary revealed this while laying the foundation stone for a 1.85 crore, one-kilometre road from Kaidyapulanka to Yetigattu on Saturday. Chowdary attributed this development to the leadership of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, highlighting their focus on rural development. He also announced the implementation of the fees reimbursement scheme from June 2025. Minister Durgesh noted the states progress under the alliance government, with the support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Snake Causes Stir at Collectorates Meeting Hall

Kakinada : A snake created panic in the Godavari Bhavan meeting hall at the Dr B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema district collectorate on Saturday. Employees spotted the snake in the hall, used for meetings and public grievance redressal. The incident caused alarm among staff, who quickly summoned snake catcher Ganesh Varma. The snake was found stuck in a corner of the hall. Varma took two hours to safely capture the snake, which he identified as a Jerrycan. The reptile was later released into a nearby forest. Collector Office Administrative Officer Visweswara Rao thanked Varma for his efforts, which brought relief to the employees.

Woman overcomes depression, swims in sea from Vizag to Kakinada

Kakinada: Once in the deepest pits of depression, 52-year-old Goli Shyamala took to swimming to regain her sanity. She has now recovered so much that she swam in the Bay of Bengal from Visakhapatnam to Kakinada, covering 30 kilometres. Shyamala started on December 28 from Vizag and reached Kakinada Beach on the afternoon of January 3. Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, the swimmer said she had been a successful artist who sketched animation films which became a hit after being telecast by a media channel. However, after 26 episodes, she started suffering losses and went into a deep depression. She started recovering from depression after she took to swimming. On the path to successful recovery, Shyamala has swum 30 km from Ramasethu to Sri Lanka in 2021 in 13 hours 43 minutes. The same year, I swam from Santa Catalina Island to Los Angeles in 12-degree cold water covering 36 kilometres in 19 hours. In February 2024, I swam 50 km to Kiltan Island in Lakshadweep in hot waters. I am now happy that I have successfully swam in the Bay of Bengal from Visakhapatnam to Kakinada, she stated. While swimming in the Bay of Bengal, Shyamala had been accompanied by three boats with a crew of 14 members. When a whale came to a distance of within 10 metres from her, the crew pulled her into the boat for safety. When she resumed swimming, a turtle accompanied her for a long distance, she recalled recounting her experiences. Shyamalas husband Mohan is happy that not only has she recovered but is now making achievements at sea. Syamala and Mohan have a son Pawan Vihari who is doing his B. Tech. in Hyderabad.

AP ministers distribute compensation of Rs 148 cr to fisherfolk

Kakinada: Ministers K. Achannaidu, Kollu Ravindra and Vasamsetti Subhash along with Peddapuram MLA Nimmakayala China Rajappa, government whip and Mummidivaram MLA Datla Subba Raju, MLC Yanamala Ramakrishnudu, distributed cheques to fisherfolk, provided by the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) as compensation of `148.37 crores to 23,450 beneficiaries, at `63,250 each, on Friday at Tallarevu in Kakinada District. Achannaidu said that during the previous government, former chief minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy could not even identify land for establishing the Railway Zone in Visakhapatnam. He noted that the state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, had prepared a document for the integrated development of Andhra Pradesh by 2047, named Swarnandhra, with many industries now coming forward to the state, offering 20 lakh jobs to unemployed youth in the next five years. He further stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay the foundation stones for several industries, including the Visakhapatnam Railway Zone, during his visit on January 8. Achannaidu also mentioned that Andhra Pradesh has 950 kilometres of coastline, and the government plans to construct jetties, archers, landing centres, and other infrastructure for the convenience of fishermen. He added that compensation for fishermen during the conservation period has been increased from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 20,000 each. He criticised the YSRC government, claiming it pushed the state into a Rs. 12.50 lakh crore debt trap, with Rs. 2.50 lakh crore distributed to beneficiaries through various schemes. He questioned where the remaining funds had gone, asserting that no development occurred under the previous administration, and emphasised that the current alliance government is making efforts to fulfil all election promises. Excise Minister Kollu Ravindra highlighted that during the Telugu Desam regime, fishermen were provided with nets, boats, and other subsidies of 70 percent, but the previous government failed to implement these provisions. He assured that the alliance government would soon implement the scheme, adding that fishermen are the only community that has consistently supported Telugu Desam. Yanamala Ramakrishnudu mentioned that the alliance government is drawing up plans to introduce additional schemes for the development of the fisheries sector. Amalapuram MP G. Harish Mathur, along with MLAs A. Ananda Rao, Bandaru Satyananda Rao, Vegulla Jogeswara Rao, Vanamadi Venkateswara Rao (Kondababu), and others were present.

Four members of Uttar Pradesh gang arrested for bid to mow down constables in Kakinada district

The accused ran over their car on two constables who tried to stop it at a toll plaza on December 31, Kakinada SP says, adding that 68kg of ganja was found in the vehicle

SCR to operate additional special trains for Maha Kumbh

HYDERABAD : The South Central Railway will operate 26 additional special trains connecting various destinations to cater to the extra rush of passengers during the Maha Kumbh Mela in 2025. Train No. 07081 will leave Guntur at 11 pm on February 14, and reach Azamgarh at 5.15 pm the next day. Train No. 07082 will leave Azamgarh at 7.45 pm on February 16 and reach Vijayawada at 7.30 am two days later. Train No. 07083 will leave Machilipatnam at 10 pm on February 5 and reach Azamgarh at 5.15 pm the next day. Train No. 07084 will leave Azamgarh at 7.45 pm on February 7, 2025, and reach Machilipatnam at 9 am two days later. Kakinada Town to Azamgarh Train No. 07085 will leave at 8.10 pm on February 20 and arrive at 5.15 pm two days later. Train No. 07086 will leave Azamgarh at 7.45 pm on February 22, and terminate at Vijayawada at 7.30 am two days later. Moula Ali to Banaras Train No. 07087 will leave at 11.55 pm on February 17, 2025, arriving at 11.30 am two days later. Train No. 07088 will leave Banaras at 7.15 pm on February 19, 2025, reaching Moula Ali at 7 am two days later. Moula Ali to Gaya Train No. 07089 will leave at 5.50 pm on February 15, and arrive in Gaya at 9 am two days later. Train No. 07090 will leave Gaya at 7.45 pm on February 17, 2025, and reach Moula Ali at 7.30 am two days later. Vikarabad to Gaya Train No. 07091 will leave at 3.45 pm on February 18 and reach Gaya at 9 am two days later. Train No. 07092 will leave Gaya at 7.45 pm on February 20 and reach Vikarabad at 8.30 am two days later. Vijayawada to Gaya Train No. 07093 will leave at 7.20 pm on February 5 and arrive in Gaya at 10 am two days later. Train No. 07094 will return from Gaya at 7. 45 pm on February 7, 2025, and reach Vijayawada at 8 am two days later. Kakinada Town to Gaya Train No. 07095 will at 2.30 pm on February 8, and reach Gaya at 10 am two days later. Train No. 07096 will return from Gaya at 2.15 pm on February 10 and terminate at Vijayawada at 4 am two days later. Nanded to Patna Train No. 07099 will leave at 11 pm on February 13 and arrive in Patna at 10.30 am two days later. Train No. 07100 will return from Patna at 3.30 pm on February 15 and reach Nanded at 4.30 am two days later. Aurangabad to Patna Train No. 07101 will leave Aurangabad at 7 pm on February 19 and 25 and reach Patna at 10.30 am two days later. Train No. 07102 will return from Patna at 3.30 pm on February 21 and 27, 2025, and arrive in Aurangabad at 7.45 am two days later. Kacheguda to Patna Train No. 07103 will leave at 4.45 pm on February 22 and arrive at Patna at 10.30 am two days later. Train No. 07104 will return from Patna at 11.30 am on February 24 and reach Kacheguda at 7 am two days later. Secunderabad to Patna Train No. 07105 will leave at 5 pm on February 7 and arrive at 10.30 am two days later. Train No. 07106 will return from Patna at 3.30 pm on February 9 and reach Secunderabad at 11.30 am two days later. Trains will stop at Vijayawada, Warangal, Ramagundam, Nagpur, Jabalpur, Prayagraj and Varanasi. Other trains will halt at Patna, Danapur, and Buxar, among many others. Coaches include 2A, 3A, Sleeper, and General Second Class categories.

Two constables suffer minor injuries in hit and run case in Kakinada district

SCR to run 26 additional Maha Kumbh Mela special trains

Hyderabad: In order to clear extra rush of passengers participating in the Maha Kumbh Mela - 2025, the South Central Railway (SCR) is operating 26 additional Maha Kumbh Mela special trains between various destinations in February. Train No. 07081/07082 Guntur Azamgarh Vijayawada (Two services): These special trains will stop at Guntur Azamgarh special train will stop Vijayawada, Khammam, Dornakal, Mahbubabad, Warangal, Ramagundam, Mancherial, Sirpur Kaghaznagar, Balharshah, Chandrapur, Nagpur, Betul, Itarsi, Pipariya, Narsinghpur, Jabalpur, Katni, Maihar, Satna, Manikpur, Prayagraj Chheoki, Mirzapur, Varanasi and Shahganj stations in both the directions. Train No. 07083/07084 Machilipatnam Azamgarh Machilipatnam (Two services): These special trains will stop at Gudlavalleru, Gudivada, Vijayawada, Khammam, Warangal, Ramagundam, Mancherial, Sirpur Kaghaznagar, Balharshah, Chandrapur, Nagpur, Betul, Itarsi, Pipariya, Narsinghpur, Jabalpur, Katni, Maihar, Satna, Manikpur, Prayagraj Chheoki, Mirzapur, Varanasi and Shahganj stations in both the directions. Train No. 07085/07086 Kakinada Town Azamgarh Vijayawada (Two services): These special trains will stop at Samalkot, Nidadavolu, Tadepalligudem, Eluru, Vijayawada, Khammam, Warangal, Ramagundam, Mancherial, Sirpur Kaghaznagar, Balharshah, Chandrapur, Nagpur, Itarsi, Pipariya, Narsinghpur, Jabalpur, Katni, Maihar, Satna, Manikpur, Prayagraj Chheoki, Varanasi and Shahganj stations in both the directions. In the return direction, Train No. 07086 will be terminated at Vijayawada station and will not stop at Kakinada Town, Samalkot, Nidadavolu , Tadepalligudem, Eluru stations. Train No. 07087/07088 Moula-Ali Banaras Moula-Ali (Two services): These special trains will stop at Bhongir, Jangaon, Kazipet, Jammikunta, Peddapalli, Ramagundam, Bellampalli, Sirpur Kaghaznagar, Balharshah, Chandrapur, Nagpur, Betul, Itarsi, Pipariya, Narsinghpur, Jabalpur, Katni, Maihar, Satna, Manikpur and Prayagraj Chheoki stations in both the directions. Train. No. 07089/07090 Moula Ali Gaya Moula Ali Special Trains (Two services): These special trains will stop at Bhongir, Jangaon, Kazipet, Jammikunta, Peddapalli, Ramagundam, Bellampalli, Sirpur Kaghaz Nagar, Balharshah, Chandrapur, Nagpur, Betul, Itarsi, Pipariya, Narsinghpur, Jabalpur, Katni, Maihar, Satna, Manikpur, Prayagraj Chheoki, Pt Deendayal Upadhyaya Jn, Bhabua Road, Sasaram, Dehri on Sone and Anugraha Narayan Road stations in both the directions. Tr. No. 07091/07092 Vikarabad Gaya - Vikarabad Special Trains (Two services): These special trains will stop at Lingampalli, Cherlapalli, Jangaon, Kazipet, Jammikunta, Peddapalli, Ramagundam, Bellampalli, Sirpur Kaghaz Nagar, Balharshah, Chandrapur, Nagpur, Betul, Itarsi, Pipariya, Narsinghpur, Jabalpur, Katni, Maihar, Satna, Manikpur, Prayagraj Chheoki, Pt Deendayal Upadhyaya Jn, Bhabua Road, Sasaram, Dehri on Sone and Anugraha Narayan Road stations in both the directions. Tr. No. 07093/07094 Vijayawada Gaya Vijayawada Special Trains (Two services): These special trains will stop at Madhira, Khammam, Dornakal, Mahbubabad, Warangal, Jammikunta, Peddapalli, Ramagundam, Bellampalli, Sirpur Kaghaz Nagar, Balharshah, Chandrapur, Nagpur, Betul, Itarsi, Pipariya, Narsinghpur, Jabalpur, Katni, Maihar, Satna, Manikpur, Prayagraj Chheoki, Pt Deendayal Upadhyaya Jn, Bhabua Road, Sasaram, Dehri on Sone and Anugraha Narayan Road stations in both the directions. Tr. No. 07095/07096 Kakinada Town Gaya Vijayawada Special Trains (Two services): These special trains will stop at Samalkot, Nidadavolu, Tadepalligudem, Eluru, Vijayawada, Madhira, Khammam, Dornakal, Mahbubabad, Warangal, Jammikunta, Peddapalli, Ramagundam, Bellampalli, Sirpur Kaghaz Nagar, Balharshah, Chandrapur, Nagpur, Betul, Itarsi, Pipariya, Narsinghpur, Jabalpur, Katni, Maihar, Satna, Manikpur, Prayagraj Chheoki, Pt Deendayal Upadhyaya Jn, Bhabua Road, Sasaram, Dehri on Sone and Anugraha Narayan Road stations. In the return direction, Train No. 07096 will be terminated at Vijayawada station and will not stop at Kakinada Town, Samalkot, Nidadavolu , Tadepalligudem, Eluru stations. Tr. No. 07099/07100 Nanded Patna Nanded Special Trains (Two services): These special trains will stop at Purna, Basmat, Hingoli, Washim, Akola, Malkapur, Khandwa, Itarsi, Pipariya, Narsinghpur, Jabalpur, Katni, Maihar, Satna, Manikpur, Prayagraj Chheoki, Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya Jn., Buxar, Ara and Danapur stations in both the directions. Tr. No. 07101/07102 Aurangabad Patna Aurangabad Special Trains (Four services): These special trains will stop at Jalna, Selu, Parbhani, Purna, Basmat, Hingoli, Washim, Akola, Malkapur, Khandwa, Itarsi, Pipariya, Narsinghpur, Jabalpur, Katni, Maihar, Satna, Manikpur, Prayagraj Chheoki, Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya Jn., Buxar, Ara and Danapur stations in both the directions. Tr. No. 07103/7104 Kacheguda Patna Kacheguda Special Trains (Two services): These special trains will stop at Bolarum, Medchal, Kamareddi, Nizamabad, Basar, Dharmabad, Umri, Mudkhed, Nanded, Purna, Basmat, Hingoli, Washim, Akola, Malkapur, Khandwa, Itarsi, Pipariya, Narsinghpur, Jabalpur, Katni, Maihar, Satna, Manikpur, Prayagraj Chheoki, Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya Jn., Buxar, Ara, Danapur, stations in both the directions. Tr. No. 07105/07106 Secunderabad Patna Secunderabad Special Trains (Two services): These special trains will stop at Bolarum, Medchal, Kamareddi, Nizamabad, Basar, Dharmabad, Umri, Mudkhed, Nanded, Purna, Basmat, Hingoli, Washim, Akola, Malkapur, Khandwa, Itarsi, Pipariya, Narsinghpur, Jabalpur, Katni, Maihar, Satna, Manikpur, Prayagraj Chheoki, Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya Jn., Buxar, Ara, Danapur, stations in both the directions. All these special trains will consists of 2A, 3A, sleeper and general second class coaches, according to a press release.