GI tag for Armoor turmeric soon

Tumeric relieve everything from cold to your liver problem to stomach issues and is also used in many alternative therapies.(Photo: Representative image) Tumeric relieve everything from cold to your liver problem to stomach issues and is also used in many alternative therapies.(Photo: Representative image) Hyderabad: A team of scientists conducted a field study to assign the geographical indication (GI) of Armoor turmeric, which is locally grown in Armoor area of Nizamabad district, carrying many unique features. With the courtesy of Nabard, the team led by Dr Pidigam Saidaiah, principal investigator of the Armoor turmeric project, from Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University along with scientists B. Mahender, P. Srinivas from Kammarapalli Turmeric Research Station and Nizamabad Nabard DDM Praveen Kumar, met to study the GI of Armoor turmeric. The information required for applying for GI Armur, climatic conditions, soil characteristics, unique characteristics of this variety, history of cultivation of Armur turmeric, documentary evidence, among others were discussed in detail. The turmeric varieties cultivated in the turmeric growing areas of Armoor were visited and the uniqueness of the varieties being cultivated was observed. If turmeric gets the GI tag, exports will increase, marketing opportunities for this variety across the country will increase and premium and higher prices will also be available, said Dr Pidigam Saidaiah, the principal investigator of the project. An application will have to be made to the Intellectual Property Rights Centre, headquartered in Chennai, for geographical indication. The team said that the application will be submitted in three to four months. Soon, DNA profiling of this variety, description of its characteristics, and their samples will be examined and studied in the laboratory, Pidigam Saidaiah said.

Nizamabad: Headmistress suspended for corruption

Nizamabad: Gana Jyothi Rani, the headmistress of Zilla Parishad High School in Dharpally, was suspended on Wednesday following allegations of corruption and staff complaints. The suspension orders were issued by education department regional joint director Satyanarayana Reddy. An inquiry was conducted into the allegations, and based on the findings of the report, action was taken against the headmistress.

Missing names in beneficiary lists spark protests across Telangana

ADILABAD/NALGONDA/KARIMNAGAR/NIZAMABAD: A few eligible beneficiaries in Adilabad expressed disappointment upon discovering that their names were missing from the beneficiary lists for four key welfare schemesRythu Bharosa, Indiramma Athmeiya Bharosa, Indiramma Housing Scheme, and Ration Card distributionset to be launched by the state government on January 26. During gram sabhas organised to identify beneficiaries, several villagers raised concerns over the omissions. In Pollampelli village, Bheemaram mandal, Mancherial, beneficiaries protested against the list, demanding that the government halt the current process, conduct a new survey, and reorganise the gram sabha to include all eligible families. Mancherial District Collector Kumar Deepak attended the gram sabha in Naspur municipality, where he reassured people that ration card distribution is ongoing and advised those whose names were missing to apply at the Mandal Praja Parishad office or ward sabhas. Regarding housing, he promised steps under the Indiramma Housing Scheme for poor beneficiaries. Criticise authorities over inclusion of ineligible beneficiaries In Karimnagar, a heated exchange occurred during a gram sabha in Chakalivanipalli village, Ganneruvaram Mandal, as villagers criticised authorities over the inclusion of ineligible families in the beneficiary list. The authorities displayed the list of past welfare scheme applicants, but many were frustrated upon finding their names missing. A couple broke down, claiming they had worked on NREGS projects but had not received payments. Mallesh, a villager, alleged that landlords received benefits while landless poor families were excluded. Despite some villagers complaints that they had not participated in NREGS work yet were listed under the Atmiya Bharosa scheme, the situation calmed after authorities intervened and explained the process. Residents question implementation of schemes In Nizamabad, gram sabhas and ward sabhas were held across villages and towns as part of the ongoing implementation of welfare schemes. While some residents asked when the schemes would be implemented, others expressed dissatisfaction with missing names on beneficiary lists. Armoor MLA Paidy Rakesh Reddy attended a gram sabha in Armoor, where people requested the construction of 2BHK houses. Similarly, Nizamabad District Collector Rajiv Gandhi Hanumanthu participated in a gram sabha in Lolam village, where he clarified the state governments new schemes, including Indiramma Illu, Indiramma Athmiya Bharosa, Rythu Bharosa, and Ration Cards. He assured residents that applications for these schemes are a continuous process and encouraged eligible individuals to submit their applications without delay, advising them not to be anxious about the process.

Gram Sabhas to Identify Beneficiaries for Welfare Schemes in Telangana

Hyderabad : Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka and other ministers urged all eligible individuals to apply for ration cards and Indiramma houses, even as the gram sabhas to identify beneficiaries for the welfare programmes to be launched on January 26 began on Tuesday. Bhatti participated in the online meeting with the collectors from the Secretariat on Tuesday along with ministers Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy, Uttam Kumar Reddy, Ponnam Prabhakar, Tummala Nageswara Rao, Jupally Krishna Rao, D. Anasuya Seethakka and Chief Secretary Shanti Kumari. The government is organising gram sabhas till 24 to identify beneficiaries for Rythu Bharosa, Indiramma Atmeeya Bharosa, ration cards and Indiramma houses. These schemes are projected to cost the exchequer Rs 40,000 crore. They noted that since ration cards and Indiramma houses are being distributed after a decade, the response is expected to be substantial. They also clarified that the issuance of these benefits would be a continuous process. However, with the applicants outnumbering the number of beneficiaries the gram sabhas witnessed arguments between the applicants and the officials over the criteria of selection. Officials tried to convince the applicants that benefits like housing and ration cards would continue to be issued to those who did not find their names on the list. Those without land expressed resentment after their names were not found in the Indiramma Aatmeeya Bharosa list. Such instances were reported from Hazipur, Durki and Ankol villages in Nasrullabadh in Nizamabad district. Farmers were found insisting on the continuation of Rythu Bharosa to cultivated land that was left fallow in Narsapur of Kammarpally mandal. BJP MLA Paidi Rakesh Reddy was asked about his failure to provide houses as promised by him earlier. In Duddellapalli of Saidapur mandal of Karimnagar district, people questioned why their names were missing from the Indiramma Aatmeeya Bharosa list. Concerns also arose over the cap of Rs 5 lakh grant for landowners constructing houses as part of the 3,500 houses per Assembly constituency in the first phase. Many expressed doubts about their chances of receiving these benefits.

Gram Sabhas Pass Off Peacefully in Nbad, Kreddy

Nizamabad, Kamareddy: Barring sporadic protests, grama sabhas in Nizamabad and Kamareddy districts, passed off peacefully on Tuesday. People in large numbers attended the meetings in their respective villages and wards. Officials received applications from people on Rythu Bharosa, new ration cards, Indiramma houses and Indiramma Athmiya Bharosa schemes. Nizamabad collector Rajiv Gandhi Hanumanthu participated in a grama sabha at Lolam village in Indalwai mandal. He interacted with people and directed officials to take necessary steps while drawing the beneficiaries lists. In Kamareddy district, collector Ashish Sangwan took part in grama sabhas in Bhagirthapally village in Bhiknoor mandal and Lingupally village in Domakonda mandal. He said that issuing ration cards is a regular process and all eligible people will get the government schemes. Meanwhile. BJP MLA Paidi Rakesh Reddy faced the ire of women in Khudwanpur village in Nandipet mandal during the grama sabha. They alleged that Rakesh Reddy had promised to build 10 houses in each village during his Assembly election campaign but forgot it. BRS MLA V. Prashanth Reddy alleged that Praja Palana grama sabhas were conducted with police force. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and the ministers failed to address the problems of people, he said. Noticing public anger, police forces were deployed during grama sabhas, he added.

Home Guard Rescued From Rly Tracks

Nizamabad: The railway police on Tuesday rescued a home guard while he was attempting to commit suicide by sitting on railway tracks at platform number 3, in Nizamabad railway station. Railway police sub inspector H. Sai Reddy alerted his staff to find out Thatikonda Narsaiah, 43, a home guard with Nizamabad police. Railway police immediately rescued him and handed him over to IV town police. Thatikonda later said he wanted to commit suicide as he was unable to bear harassment from his wife and in-laws.

Telangana man jailed for life in Kuwait, wife claims false charges, seeks help

Hyderabad: The wife of Mohammad Abdul Sohail, a 34-year-old man from Telangana who has been sentenced to life imprisonment in Kuwait has appealed to the minister of external affairs (MEA), Dr S Jaishankar, for legal help. Sohail, a resident of Bodhan in Nizamabad district, was employed as a plumber in the maintenance department of Gulf 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 .

Telangana: Kavitha welcomes Turmeric Board for Nizamabad, slams BJP

Hyderabad: BRS MLC Kavitha has welcomed the establishment of the National Turmeric Board in Nizamabad but expressed opposition to the manner in which the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led central government has handled the situation. Speaking at a media conference in Hyderabad, she raised concerns regarding the lack of communication from the state Agriculture minister 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 .

BRS leader Kavitha urges govt to install statue of Dasarathi at prominent junction

HYDERABAD: BRS MLC Kalvakuntla Kavitha has appealed to the state government to install a statue of the renowned poet Dasarathi Krishnamacharya at a prominent junction in Hyderabad. On Saturday, she wrote to Culture and Tourism Minister Jupally Krishna Rao, urging him to hold grand centenary celebrations to honour Dasarathi. Kavitha noted that although the government announced year-long events, the celebrations are minimal. She suggested holding significant events to mark the conclusion of the centenary celebrations. She also wanted establishment of a memorial garden at Dasarathis birthplace, Chinna Gudur in Mahabubabad district. She also proposed the construction of a new library building in his village and publish his works for public access. Recalling that the previous BRS government had allocated funds to establish a Dasarathi memorial at old Nizamabad jail, where the poet was imprisoned by the Nizam rulers, the BRS MLC proposed to enhance the memorial and transform it into a major tourist destination.

19 penalised for drunken driving in Nizamabad

Nizamabad :Traffic police penalised 19 people and sentenced five to imprisonment for drunken driving during a special drive on Friday. The offenders were identified during drunken driving tests conducted by traffic police. Traffic CI P. Prasad provided counselling to the accused before presenting them to Second Class Magistrate Noorjehan, who imposed a total penalty of 43,500 on the 19 people. The magistrate also sentenced Gene Sunil of Gajulpet to one-day imprisonment, while Kadari Vinod of Yellammagutta, B. Praveen of Dubba, Ram Reddy, Gangasthan, and Golikar Dinesh of Nagaram received two-day imprisonment each. With a rise in drunken driving incidents, police intensified checks and registered 24 cases during the operation.

Turmeric Board Boon to the Quality Produce, Remunerative Price

Nizamabad: The National Turmeric Board (NTB) will change the fate of farmers across the country, especially in Telangana state. From cultivation to exports, the board will play key role. The farmers are eagerly waiting for the initiative of the board for improvement of crop and its benefits. On war footing basis, the officials began arrangements for the setting up of the board in Nizamabad. Maharashtra is top producer of turmeric, but the central government set up the National Turmeric Board in Nizamabad by giving importance to the Telangana state. However, the quality of turmeric cultivated in north Telangana districts is superior. Usually, farmers bring wet turmeric for sale in the Nizamabad agriculture market yard for early disposal of the produce. Only dried turmeric, either finger variety or bulb variety will get remunerative price. In view of this, the Spices Board India created awareness among the farmers over dried turmeric for the last few years. Exclusive Turmeric Board will create awareness over cultivation and marketing strategies to the farmers. For better price, Telangana farmers sent the turmeric to Sangli market in Maharashtra. Speaking to Deccan Chronicle , Spices Board India Nizamabad deputy director Sundareshan said that they are waiting for the norms from the central government over Turmeric Board function. Both Spices Board India office and Turmeric Board will work in Nizamabad, he said. Spices Board dealt with 52 spices barring the turmeric soon, he said. We are trying to cooperate with the farmers to cultivate quality turmeric and get remunerative prices, he explained. Meanwhile, 30 varieties of turmeric crops are being cultivated in around 20 states across the country. Of the world's need for turmeric, India will cater 62 percent of the global market. As for food, cosmetic and medicinal needs, turmeric is being used in various countries. For the last five years, the model price of turmeric stands between Rs 6,350 to Rs 15,000 per quintal in Nizamabad agriculture market yard.

Five youths booked for harassing minor girl under POCSO

Nizamabad: Nandipet police registered a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act on Thursday against five youths accused of sexually harassing a minor girl in Siddapur village. The incident reportedly occurred when the victim was returning home after attending to a natures call. Acting on a complaint from the girls family, the police registered the case and launched an investigation. Sub-inspector Chiranjeevi and his team are working to catch the accused.

India faces turmeric production challenge amid rising global competition

NEW DELHI: Indias aspiration to become a global turmeric production hub in the next five years may soon face a reality challenge. Despite being the world leader in turmeric production, productivity efficiency has significantly reduced in the past decade. In the meantime, new players like Fiji, Netherlands and Germany are fast catching up with the quality production of turmeric with high content of curcumin has reduced the share of India. Further, India has also become the second largest importer of niche turmeric after the USA. A new report, Making India the Global Hub for Turmeric, by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) and Amway, released by NITI Ayog member Ramesh Chand, underlined the current challenges in turmeric production and the challenges before the sustainability of India's ayurvedic medicinal systems yellow gold. India is the largest producer, consumer, and exporter of turmeric, accounting for 70% of the worlds production. But for a long time, Indian farmers and policymakers were not very aware of the importance of curcumin content. The majority of Indian turmeric content has 2% curcumin content. Also, rampant pesticides used by farmers to get turmeric are less preferred by offshore countries due to its high residual content. India is importing because it needs to develop turmeric product with high curcumin quantity, said Arpita Mukherjee, lead author of the report. Further, she said India has now started focussing on developing products. To make the turmeric sector a billion-dollar industry in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi set up a separate National Turmeric Board in Nizamabad on 14 January to encourage growers, traders, and processors. The Board will ensure better opportunities for innovation, global promotion and value addition in turmeric production. It will strengthen the supply chains, benefiting both farmers and consumers alike, Modi posted on X. The establishment of the National Turmeric Board is a matter of immense joy, particularly for our hardworking turmeric farmers across India! This will ensure better opportunities for innovation, global promotion and value addition in turmeric production. It will strengthen the https://t.co/Inwmrj4rBd Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 14, 2025 However, despite having the largest 30 varieties of turmeric in India, the curcumin content is too low. Except for the Lakadong Turmeric varieties of Meghalaya, which have the highest curcumin content in the range of 6.8-7.8 % per kg, whereas the other varieties have a curcumin content in the range of 2-4%. Now the challenge before India is to invest in R&D to increase curcumin content and become a major hub, said Chand. Another major challenge pointed out by the expert is no assessment of the demand and consumption of turmeric in the country. Lack of assessment, small producers face price fluctuation, which leads to loss and consequently reduces production, said Dr Prabhat Kumar, Horticulture Commissioner. He emphasised the need to conduct an assessment study as soon as possible.

Arvind lacks political maturity: Tummala

Hyderabad : State agriculture minister Tummala Nageshwara Rao has criticised Nizamabad MP Dharmapuri Arvind and opined his comments reflect lack of political understanding. The minister wondered why the two-time MP did not show restraint while making remarks against him. In an open letter, Tummala wrote, The Centre did not exhibit the federal spirit while announcing the board. As agriculture minister I have been putting pressure on the Centre seeking it. But despite that in the interest of farmers I welcomed the decision and thanked the PM and the commerce minister. The state government will extend all the help needed in the process of its institution. The Bodhan sugar factory issue comes under the purview of the industry minister but as part of the team I will take up the issue with the minister concerned and address it. Tracing his political journey since 1983, he averred though he had worked under chief ministers like NTR, Chandrababu Naidu, K. Chandrashekar Rao and the incumbent A. Revanth Reddy, his priority was to serve the people and he got approvals for many road and irrigation projects (except Kaleshwaram). All these leaders included him in their Cabinets and he never lobbied before any of them. He also reminded that he had played a key role in conceptualising and executing Singeetam Kalyani, Lakshmi Canal, Sarada Sagar, Lakshmi Sagar, Indalwai lift irrigation schemes in the united state of Andhra Pradesh as irrigation minister. I played a role in the construction of national highways and those being laid now. This will be evident to him (Aravind) if he speaks to senior leaders of his party. I steered clear of the issuing of bond papers to the public by him and did not speak about it, the minister said.

National Turmeric Board in Nizamabad Thrills Telangana Farmers

Nizamabad : The establishment of the National Turmeric Board (NTB) in Nizamabad has brought joy to the people of north Telangana, particularly turmeric farmers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi fulfilled his assurance made during the last Parliamentary elections, dispelling doubts about the board's location and affirming Nizamabad as its base due to its prominence in turmeric cultivation. The NTB aims to promote innovation, global outreach, and value addition for turmeric as a commercial crop. Nizamabad BJP MP Arvind Dharmapuri, who pledged during the 2019 elections to establish the board, had faced criticism when only a Spices Board office was set up in Nizamabad. However, during his recent Telangana visit, Modi reaffirmed the promise and officially announced the NTB's establishment, with senior BJP leader Palle Ganga Reddy appointed as its first chairperson. Turmeric is cultivated across 20 states, with a total area of 3,05,182 hectares producing approximately 10,74,526 metric tonnes annually. Telangana is among the top producers, with Nizamabad leading with 13,942 hectares under cultivation, followed by Jagtial (8,567 hectares) and Nirmal (6,512 hectares), yielding 2,26,241 metric tonnes across the state. For decades, farmers in the region have demanded the NTB to enhance market opportunities, export potential, and overall growth of the turmeric industry. Indian turmeric, valued as a kitchen essential and wellness product, is exported to countries such as Bangladesh, UAE, UK, USA, Australia, and Japan, among others. With the board's establishment, exports are expected to increase significantly. The NTB will incorporate Spices Board officials, with Dr A.B. Rema Shree, director of the Spices Board, appointed as secretary on additional charge. A new office will be set up in Nizamabad, and staff will be appointed soon.

Congress hails decision to establishment Turmeric Board in Nizamabad

DC Impact: GGH Chief Replaced After Birthday Fete in Hospital

Nizamabad: In the backdrop of birthday celebrations event organised in Government General Hospital in Nizamabad, the superintendent Prathima Raj was removed from the post. Paediatrician Dr P.Srinivas appointed as new superintendent of GGH. GGH chiefs bday fete at hospital kicks up row, news item was published in these columns on January 12. Prathima Raj is serving as superintendent of Government General Hospital in Nizamabad for the last five years. During the BRS government, Prathima Raj was appointed as superintendent, but she has continued in the same post for the last one year after Congress came to power. Health minister C.Damodar Rajanarsimha expressed displeasure during his visit to Nizamabad hospital recently. Meanwhile, a woman patients husband Kethavath Bidya Naik moved in the hospital premises by carrying his wife on shoulders as the hospital staff allegedly neglected to admit the victim. After a stir by BJP leaders, the victim was admitted in the ICU ward on Friday night and superintendent Prathima Raj birthday celebrations were conducted the next day on Saturday in the hospital building. Both the incidents highlighted in Deccan Chronicle on January 12, 2025 and principal secretary of medical and health department Christina Z Chongthu issued orders in this regard by replacing Prathima Raj and appointed Srinivas as new superintendent. The new superintendent took charge on Tuesday. The hospital staff and patients believed that Government General Hospital administration will be regulated soon.

50% households not drinking Mission Bhagiratha water: Seethakka

Adilabad: Minister for panchayati raj and rural development, women and child welfare, Danasari Seethakka, said nearly 50 per cent of households with water connections under Mission Bhagiratha are not using its water for drinking purposes. She cited a survey conducted from July to September 2024 in the state, which revealed this big gap in usage. She noted that the state government is making efforts to address the current situation regarding Mission Bhagiratha after the Sankranti festival. In an exclusive interview with Deccan Chronicle, Seethakka discussed various issues, including infrastructure development such as roads and bridges to improve rural connectivity water facilities in villages, and the Indiramma Mahila Shakti scheme. What is the present status of Mission Bhagiratha in the state? The previous BRS government generated false hype around Mission Bhagiratha, on which they spent thousands of crores. However, the ground reality is different. They did this merely for praise and misled Jal Shakti by claiming they had provided water to 100 per cent of households through the scheme. Consequently, they obtained central funds under the Jal Shakti initiative. When a team from the Congress government met Jal Shakti officials a Central government body seeking funds for the states water projects, we realised the misinformation spread by the BRS government. A recent survey (JulySeptember 2024) has shown that around 50 per cent of households with Mission Bhagiratha connections do not use this water for drinking; they use it only for other daily needs. Moreover, the scheme has not reached four lakh existing households. Three lakh of these households do not get water with sufficient pressure due to issues like damaged pipelines, hilly terrain, and lack of maintenance. There are also questions about why and when the Congress government allegedly stopped supplying Mission Bhagiratha water to households particularly the poorest based on claims by the BRS. What steps are you taking to improve this situation as far as Mission Bhagiratha is concerned? We will launch special programmes after the Sankranti festival in both rural and urban areas to raise awareness of the benefits of drinking purified water rich in minerals supplied under Mission Bhagiratha, as opposed to water purified in private RO plants. Local officials will encourage people to rely on naturally treated water from this scheme. We also plan to ensure a consistent water supply under Mission Bhagiratha to government hostels and schools, preventing staff from purchasing outside water for cooking and drinking. This will help avoid any potential risks associated with lower-quality water. Did you address the water problems in villages? Last year, we spent Rs 60 crore to improve drinking water facilities, repair Mission Bhagiratha pipelines, dig new borewells, and flush old ones in Komaram Bheem Asifabad district. Even so, some people still depend on borewells for drinking water in certain villages. Is there any special focus on improving road connectivity to interior villages? Yes, the state government is prioritising the creation of basic infrastructure roads, bridges, and culverts to enhance connectivity. It has allocated Rs 200 crore for Yadadri-Bhuvanagiri (including Gajwel), Rs 100 crore for Komaram Bheem Asifabad, and Rs 150 crores for Nizamabad to lay new roads. The government spent Rs 3,000 crore on roads last year and plans to invest Rs 12,000 crore in the next four years to connect villages and Gram Panchayats to mandal headquarters under the Ministry of Rural Development. What about your flagship Indiramma Mahila Shakti scheme and its implementation? I am pleased that lakhs of women in Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have benefited from this scheme. The government provided Rs 20,000 crore in interest-free loans to SHGs, meeting its target in the first year itself, which marks a major success. It is especially encouraging to see women, including those from marginalised communities, emerging as entrepreneurs. They have started 18 types of businesses under this scheme, running them successfully and creating wealth for their self-reliance. The ministry of rural development remains focused on developing infrastructure, basic amenities, and improving conditions in rural areas.

Constable among three injured due to kites strings in Telangana

Sankranti is a festival in which most of the terraces are swarmed by young girls and women either holding the charka (bobbins) or flying kites with gay abandon. It is family time.(Photo: DC) Sankranti is a festival in which most of the terraces are swarmed by young girls and women either holding the charka (bobbins) or flying kites with gay abandon. It is family time.(Photo: DC) Hyderabad: Three people, including a police constable, suffered injuries in separate incidents after manja strings of kites allegedly slit their throats in different places in Telangana, police said on Wednesday. The incidents occurred on 'Makar Sankranti,' a harvest festival during which kite flying is an integral part. A constable attached to the Langar House traffic police station suffered a bleeding injury when a manja string from a kite slit his throat while he was riding a two-wheeler on the Narayanguda flyover Tuesday evening, a police official said. He was taken to a hospital by local people, treated, and subsequently discharged. Based on the constable's complaint, a case was registered, police said. In another incident, reported from Navipet in Nizamabad district, a man in his 30s was hospitalised after a manja thread cut his throat, resulting in a bleeding injury while he was riding a two-wheeler on Tuesday. In yet another incident, a middle-aged man driving a two-wheeler in Yadagirigutta on Wednesday suffered a minor cut on his neck after the thread of a kite got entangled around his neck, causing him to fall. A man had died in January 2024 when a manja string from a kite allegedly slit his throat while he was riding a two-wheeler. Hyderabad Police said the use of Chinese manja, a synthetic nylon string coated with abrasive materials like powdered glass or metal, poses significant risks to public safety, wildlife, and the environment. Despite bans in several regions, its availability and use during kite festivals and other events continue to raise serious concerns, police said. Regarding a media report that Chinese manja, despite being banned, is easily available online, Hyderabad Police Commissioner C V Anand said they may have to raid e-commerce storage houses and summon them for a meeting. Anand posted on 'X' on Tuesday: The real reason for the availability of the so-called Chinese manja, which is made by Indians in India, is e-commerce. Anyone can order it online. So, we may have to raid the e-commerce storage houses and call them for a meeting on this! Just see to what extent one has to go will people not do anything voluntarily if it is dangerous!? Deputy Commissioner of Police (Commissioner's Task Force) Y V S Sudeendra said police teams carried out several raids in different parts of the city between October 1, 2024, and January 13 this year, booking 107 cases and apprehending 148 accused persons involved in the illegal business of prohibited Chinese manja. They also seized 7,334 manja bobbins worth around Rs 90 lakh. The sale and use of Chinese manja is illegal and punishable by law, with imprisonment of up to five years and a fine up to Rs one lakh, police added.

National Turmeric Board with Nizamabad headquarters launched

National Turmeric Board will help boost their incomes and also give impetus to increase production especially in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana where there is a lot of potential

Piyush Goyal inaugurates National Turmeric Board established in Nizamabad

Hyderabad: Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, on Tuesday inaugurated National Turmeric Board in New Delhi. Goyal announced Palle Ganga Reddy as its first chairperson. The headquarters of the Board has been set up at Nizamabad. The Minister noted that the launch of the National Turmeric Board was on an auspicious day of celebrations across the country. He highlighted that representatives from various ministries will also be a part of the National Turmeric Board. Representatives from exporters and producers bodies will also be added to the Board. Adding that turmeric is also known as Golden Spice, he pointed out that the newly formed Board will pay special attention to the welfare of the turmeric farmers spread across 20 states, including Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Meghalaya and others. He said that there was immense potential in increasing turmeric production in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana and formation of the Turmeric Board will boost income of turmeric producers in the country. The Minister noted that the new Board will promote research and development of new turmeric products, and will look into the value addition of turmeric related products for marketing abroad. The Board will also look into creating awareness on the essential and medical properties of turmeric, ways to increase its yield and boost logistics and supply chain to foster trade into newer markets, he said. Goyal also highlighted that the Board will also ensure quality and safety standards of turmeric production and exports. Goyal said that last year, 2023-24, an area of 3.05 lakh hectare was under turmeric cultivation in India with a production of 10.74 lakh tonnes. India was responsible for over 70 per cent of global turmeric production, he informed. He also shared that there are 30 varieties of turmeric produced in India. Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar, and Arvind Dharmapuri, Member of Parliament, Nizamabad also graced the event. In addition to the Chairperson of the Board, representatives of Ministry of AYUSH, Department of Pharmaceuticals, Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Department of Commerce have also been nominated. Representatives from the top two turmeric growing states of Maharashtra and Telangana and from the state of Meghalaya, which is famous for its Lakadong Turmeric, will also be part of the Board. States will be represented on the Board by rotation. The National Turmeric Board will focus on the overall development and growth of the turmeric sector in the country. The National Turmeric Board will provide leadership, augment efforts and facilitate coordination with other Government Departments/Agencies in matters pertaining to the turmeric sector and facilitate growth and development of the Turmeric sector in the country. It will help bring focus to efforts of tapping the vast potential that exists for increasing trade of turmeric and its products, especially in view of the health and wellness benefits of turmeric. India is the largest producer, consumer and exporter of turmeric in the world. India has more than 62 per cent share of world trade. During 2023-24, 1.62 lakh tonnes of turmeric and turmeric products valued at 226.5 million USD was exported.

National Turmeric Board inaugurated in Telanganas Nizamabad

Hyderabad: The National Turmeric Board was inaugurated in Telanganas Nizamabad district on Tuesday, January 14, by Union minister of commerce and industry Piyush Goyal. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and turmeric farmer, Palle Gangareddy has been appointed the National Turmeric Boards chairman. He will serve as the chairman of the board for a term of 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 .

Piyush Goyal launches National Turmeric Board in Nizamabad

Hyderabad: Union Minister for Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal on Tuesday launched the National Turmeric Board in Nizamabad district of Telangana, a long-awaited dream of turmeric farmers. Goyal virtually inaugurated the Board and said it is being launched on the auspicious occasion of Sankranti. There is immense potential of increasing productivity of turmeric in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Goyal noted, according to an official release. The Board will pay special attention to the welfare of 'Golden Spice' farmers, develop good varieties and focus on its export, he said. Nizamabad MP Arvind Dharmapuri was also present. The creation of the National Turmeric Board was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 1, 2023, during a public meeting in Telangana. This historic decision reflects PM Modi's commitment to farmers and his visionary leadership in recognizing the importance of turmeric as a vital crop for India's agricultural economy, a release from the office of Arvind Dharmapuri said on Monday. The announcement also fulfilled a 40-year-old demand of turmeric farmers who had long sought dedicated support and infrastructure to bolster turmeric cultivation and trade. Over the last decade, the average price for Nizamabad turmeric hovered around Rs 6,000 per quintal. However, in 2024, the price touched an all-time high of Rs 18,000 per quintal, a trend that continues this season, it said. The National Turmeric Board will provide targeted support to turmeric farmers by promoting research and development, facilitating infrastructure development such as setting up of processing units, enhancing exports, and ensuring better prices for their produce, the release said. This initiative is poised to not only strengthen the economy of North Telangana, particularly Nizamabad, but also boost India's position in the global turmeric market. Palle Ganga Reddy, has been appointed as the first Chairperson of the National Turmeric Board.

Hyderabad wakes up to Bhogi bonfire

Hyderabad : Hyderabad on Monday woke up to rising bonfires lit up for purging the old and embracing the warmth of all things new. Bhogi marks the beginning of the three-day-long festivities where families and friends participate in traditional rituals, share food and spend time together flying kites and shopping. Bhogi, dedicated to lord Indra, begins with a bonfire lit up in the morning and all old household items are purged into the fire. The front yard or thresholds of houses, shops and even important buildings like the Secretariat were adorned with muggulu (rangoli). The floor is cleaned with cow dung and water and patterns are made with chalk and colour. The muggu is special today as opposed to other days because we decorate it alongside nine types of grains called Navadhanyalu, beetroot, sugarcane, yam (kanda gadda) and cow dung, said Rekha, a 50-year-old homemaker. The families share homemade snacks like ariselu, sakinalu and sweet dishes like Paramannam. Ariselu and Sakinalu are made with sesame seeds, a food item considered warm and healthy in winters, said Megha Kavitha, a grocery shop owner in Secunderabad. Sweet shops see a larger than usual footfall on Sankranti like all festivals. Laddus made with sesame seeds and other snacks dominate the sales on this festival. Sakinalu is the testament to the food and cultural diversity of Telangana. The size and shape of them can tell you where they are from. While the size is bigger in Nizamabad, in Karimnagar they would be medium sized, said Hanisha Kalva, a master's student from Osmania. The traditions also include offerings of rice to Haridasu accompanied by colourfully decorated Oxen, called gangireddulu, she added. Morning also witnessed devotees thronging temples like Lord Venkateswara to participate in the kalyanam (wedding) of goddess Goda Devi and lord Ranganatha Swamy. The afternoons and evenings were marked by kite-flying sessions. While youngsters lined up in Begum Bazar to buy kites at wholesale prices, there were kites and sweets festivals at various places including Parade Grounds and Malaysian township. While the traditions are more or less the same, Andhra Pradesh also has the tradition of kodi pandem that includes pitching roosters at each other and people betting on it, said Ramesh, a first year student at JNTU. There is also a tradition of arranging small dolls and toys called Bommalakollu, he added. The celebrations will continue with Makar Sankranti on Tuesday followed by Kanuma on Wednesday.

Turmeric board in Nizamabad finally a reality

Hyderabad :The long-pending demand to set up the National Turmeric Board in Nizamabad is finally a reality. The inaugural ceremony of the board will be on Tuesday and will be presided over by Union commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal. Nizamabad MP Dharmapuri Arvind will be in attendance. He congratulated BJP state secretary Palle Ganga Reddy on being appointed as chairperson of the National Turmeric Board. Arvind on Monday posted on 'X': This is the most memorable Sankranti gift from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Headquartered in Nizamabad, the national turmeric board is getting inaugurated tomorrow. Thirty seven years of yearning, culminating in a grand jubilation of achievement. Tomorrow is a day to cherish, etch and double down on celebrations, this special Sankranti. The ministry of commerce, in its notification, said, Palle Ganga Reddy is appointed as chairperson, National Turmeric Board under the department of commerce for a period of three years with effect from the date of notification of his appointment or until further orders, whichever is earlier. Detailed terms and conditions of appointment of Ganga Reddy will be issued by the plantation division, department of commerce. PM Modi had made the announcement of setting up the board on October 1, 2023 during his visit to Mahbubnagar for 2023 Assembly elections campaigning. The announcement was made ahead of his public meeting in Nizamabad on October 4, 2023. Dharmapuri Arvind had long made it his main campaign plank and had made the promise during the 2018 Assembly elections and even issued bond papers to reinforce the partys commitment to the issue. Setting up of the board was part of the pledges made to the state ahead of bifurcation. There was speculation recently that the board could be set up in Maharashtra as the state currently produces more turmeric than Telangana. Farmers in Nizamabad district had burnt copies of the BJP's poll manifesto for Tamil Nadu Assembly polls in 2021 as the party promised to set up the board there. The announcement has finally put all speculations and doubts to rest. State agriculture minister Tummala Nageswara Rao said the state government had made repeated pleas to the Centre about the board and thanked Modi and Goyal for finally setting it up. This is a long pending demand of the Nizamabad farmers and is becoming a reality now. This is a victory of the farmers of the district, Nageswara Rao said.

Telangana: Centre to launch Turmeric Board in Nizamabad on Sankranthi, Jan 14

Hyderabad: In a good news for the turmeric farmers of Nizamabad district on the eve of Sankranthi festival, the Centre has announced launching the National Turmeric Board in Nizamabad from Tuesday, January 14. The inaugural ceremony of the National Turmeric Board would be held at 10 am, at Hotel Nikhil Sai International in Nizamabad town 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 .

Nation Youth Day Celebrated in Nizamabad

Nizamabad: National Youth Day was celebrated on Sunday in Nizamabad to commemorate the 162nd birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. The Ramakrishna Seva Samiti and Youth Services Department jointly organised a programme at Ramakrishna Bhavan in Gangasthan-2. District youth services officer J. Muthenna, Ramakrishna Seva Samiti president C. Sai Prasad, vice-president Ramchander, secretary Bachu Gopal, and others participated in the event. Competitions were held for students to mark the occasion. Meanwhile, elected representatives, political leaders, and officials paid tribute to Swami Vivekananda by garlanding his statue in Nizamabad.

After 5 decades, no Cabinet minister from Nizamabad

Nizamabad: For the first time in its political history, the undivided Nizamabad district has been administered without a Cabinet minister post for over a year. Traditionally, the district secured two ministerial positions, which was reduced to one under the BRS government in 2014. However, since the Congress came to power in 2023, no ministerial post has been allocated to Nizamabad. Out of nine MLA seats, Congress won in Bodhan, Nizamabad Rural, Yellareddy, and Jukkal. P. Sudarshan Reddy won Bodhan for the fourth time, while R. Bhupathi Reddy, Madanmohan Rao, and Thota Laxmikanth Rao are first-time MLAs. Despite expectations, Sudarshan Reddy was not appointed as a Cabinet minister, with reports suggesting he declined the Assembly Speaker role offered by the Congress high command. Historically, leaders like Argul Rajaram, T. Bala Goud, D. Satyanarayana, Basheeruddin Babu Khan, Mandava Venkateshwar Rao, Pocharam Srinivas Reddy, Nerella Anjaneyulu, Aleti Mahipal Reddy, S. Santosh Reddy, D. Srinivas, Mohammad Ali Shabbir, Vemula Prashanth Reddy have held ministerial positions from Nizamabad. K.R. Suresh Reddy, Pocharam Srinivas Reddy from the district served as united Andhra Pradesh and Telangana state Assembly Speakers. The absence of a current minister is affecting administration in Nizamabad and Kamareddy, lowering morale among Congress supporters. Political analysts argue that Nizamabads significance warrants a cabinet position, especially as BJP and BRS make gains in the region. A senior Congress leader, speaking anonymously to Deccan Chronicle, said that Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy supports appointing a minister from Nizamabad. However, the party high command has not approved the Cabinet expansion, despite six available vacancies. The delay is seen as detrimental to both administrative efficiency and party morale.

After Five Decades Nizamabad Runs Without Cabinet Minister

Nizamabad: For the first time in the political history of undivided Nizamabad district, without a cabinet minister post the administration of the district is continued for more than one year. Surprisingly, during undivided Andhra Pradesh, Nizamabad district got two cabinet minister posts in all governments. After BRS came to power in 2014, double minister post status was reduced to single minister. Shockingly, after Congress came to power in 2023, no minister post was allotted to the district. Of 9 MLA posts, Congress party won in Bodhan, Nizamabad rural, Yellareddy and Jukkal Assembly constituencies. P.Sudarshan Reddy won as MLA for fourth time in Bodhan and Congress MLAs R.Bhupathi Reddy, Madanmohan Rao and Thota Laxmikanth Rao were first timers. Sudarshan Reddy served as cabinet minister in united Andhra Pradesh from 2009 to 2014. People of Nizamabad district and Congress party scores strongly believed that Sudarshan Reddy would have picked up as cabinet minister in first cabinet formation, but in vain. Reportedly, Congress high command offered him Assembly Speaker post, but unwilled to accept it. For the last five decades, Argul Rajaram, T.Bala Goud, D.Satyanarayana, Basheeruddin Babu Khan, Mandava Venkateshwar Rao, Pocharam Srinivas Reddy, Nerella Anjaneyulu, Aleti Mahipal Reddy, S.Santosh Reddy, D.Srinivas, Mohammad Ali Shabbir, Vemula Prashanth Reddy served as cabinet ministers. K.R.Suresh Reddy, Pocharam Srinivas Reddy from the district served as united Andhra Pradesh and Telangana state Assembly Speakers. Abnormal delay in cabinet expansion adversely affects the administration in Nizamabad and Kamareddy districts and morale of Congress party scores. Bodhan MLA P.Sudarshan Reddy is known for simplicity and integrity in Congress party affairs. His followers believed that he might be elevated as cabinet minister for a strong portfolio. After being elected as Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee treasurer, Sudarshan Reddy played a key role in party affairs in Telangana state. Political analysts said that Nizamabad is a politically powerful district and it is urgently required cabinet minister post. On the other political opponents like BJP won three MLA posts in Nizamabad urban, Armoor and Kamareddy Assembly segments and BRS in Banswada and Balkonda Assembly constituencies. For multiple benefits, cabinet minister post is required for the district, a senior Congress leader said. Speaking to Deccan Chronicle , senior Congress leader on condition of anonymity said that Chief Minister A.Revanth Reddy is in favour of cabinet minister for Nizamabad district. Congress party high command did not give permission for the expansion of the cabinet due to various reasons, he said. Out of 6 vacancies, the party high command should at least give permission for 3 posts as immediate need of political and social equations, he opined.

Mapping of agri power connections prevent irregularities

Nizamabad: The Telangana State Northern Power Distribution Company Limited (TGNPDCL) has started a mapping programme for agricultural power connections, transformers, and substations in the Nizamabad circle. Officials are visiting each transformer in Nizamabad, Bodhan, and Armoor divisions to streamline power usage and address irregular connections. According to TGNPDCL, there are 83,619 agricultural connections in Nizamabad district. With free power supply, many farmers have installed pump sets in their fields. Some have set up additional motors without official connections, bypassing the required daily fee of 1 per connection and a deposit of 5,700 for new installations. Others avoid the annual fee of 360, further contributing to unauthorised connections. As a result, frequent repair issues and accidental deaths arise when the supply is active. Through mapping, TGNPDCL aims to document each agriculture meter, transformer, and substation to detect and prevent unauthorized connections. A senior TGNPDCL engineer noted that certain farmers have been operating multiple pump sets under the same meter number. Once digitalised, the mapping data will help curb these irregularities. However, officials reported pressure from local leaders, such as one from Ankapur village, to drop the annual 360 fee for agriculture connections. There are 47,000 transformers across 216 substations in Nizamabad, Bodhan, and Armoor divisions. The region cultivates paddy, turmeric, maize, soybeans, and vegetables on vast tracts of land, relying on pump sets for irrigation. Armoor division is a tail-end area for the Nizamsagar project and mainly depends on the Laxmi canal from the Sriramsagar project for water supply.

Rabi Operations Progressing Well in Telangana

During the last rabi season, the previous government started disbursement of Rythu Bandhu amount from December 28, 2022, and covered all 70 lakh farmers by January 31, 2023. (DC) During the last rabi season, the previous government started disbursement of Rythu Bandhu amount from December 28, 2022, and covered all 70 lakh farmers by January 31, 2023. (DC) Hyderabad: With sufficient water and prediction of good weather, Rabi operations are progressing well in the state with 25.61 lakh acres sown. Excess rainfall has been recorded in 17 districts and normal rain in 16 districts. The cumulative storage in all the major reservoirs is 724.62 tmc ft as on January 8. Last year, the storage at this time was 426.35 thousand million cubic feet (tmc ft). Telangana normally receives 14 per cent of its annual rainfall from the northeast monsoon (October-December), or 113.20 mm. Rainfall in the period was 86.6 mm, a deviation of minus-23.50 per cent. Overall, the rainfall received in Telangana from June 1, 2024, to January 8, 2025, was 1,049.20 mm as against the normal of 853.10 mm, an excess of 23 per cent. The groundwater level which had fallen to 10.36 metres below ground level (mbgl) in April 2024 improved to 6.72 mbgl in December. This is 0.08 mgbl above the level of last year. The state has the potential to reap a bumper harvest in the Rabi season with good water reserves. Adilabad, Nirmal, Nizamabad, Jangaon, Khammam, Jogulamba Gadwal and Nagarkurnool districts have witnessed maximum sowing of above 50 per cent. Maize, a major crop in the state along with other crops like jowar, black gram and groundnut have had sowing of above 75 per cent in normal cropping acreage. Paddy, another major crop along with wheat, korra (millet), cow gram, safflower and sunflower have so far been sown in less than 50 per cent by 8 January, 2025. The meteorological department is projecting above-normal rainfall over Telangana during January to March 2025. Below-normal minimum temperatures are likely over the state during January 2025.

Dil Raju apologises for his comments on Telangana style dawaat

Leading producer Dil Raju apologized for his comments against Telangana culture and dawath in a video today. I am sorry if I have hurt someone with my comments, says Dil Raju and adds, I heard a lot of noise being made on social media about comments on Telangana dawath and food. I spoke about our culture at our recent event of Sakranthiki Vasthunam in Nizamabad but it was misconstrued. At the end of the event, I also informed that I would be celebrating the release of two my films Game Changer and Sakranthiki Vasthunam by hosting a dawat in Telangana style and relish our distinct delicacies but it went unnoticed, he explains. He claims that he hails from Nizamabad and adores Telaganana culture and festivities. I am Telangana bida to the core, he adds. He even shot his blockbuster film Fidaa in Nizamabad and brought applause and respect for Telangana culture world over. Bhanumathi character was Telangana-centric and also we hailed family bonding in our region in the film besides showcasing our unique culture and people to the world and received appreciation, he points out. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Deccan Chronicle (@deccanchronicle_official) He also reminisces about his other blockbuster Balagam which was also based on family relationships in Telangana region. Apart from the audience, political leaders from varied parties hailed our film and for its rooted story and characters. I would remain loyal and fruitful to our region, he concludes

Tight security at temples for Vaikunta Ekadasi in Nizamabad, Kamareddy

Nizamabad: Vaikunta Ekadasi was celebrated with great fervour in Nizamabad and Kamareddy districts on Friday, as thousands of devotees flocked to temples for the darshan of Lord Sri Venkateshwara. In light of the recent stampede in Tirupati that claimed six lives, temples in these districts implemented stringent safety measures for the celebrations. Devotees began arriving at temples early in the morning to take the special darshan through the Uttara Dwaram (north door). Major temples, including Uttara Tirupati, Janda Balaji Mandir, Sri Venkateswara Temple at Aryanagar, and Subhashnagar Ramalayam in Nizamabad, saw huge crowds. Similarly, Telangana Tirumala Temple in Narsingpally, Apuroopa Venkateshwara Swamy Temple in Adavi Mamidipally, and Telangana Tirumala Temple at Timmapur in Kamareddy experienced heavy footfall. Temple authorities, in coordination with police and volunteers, ensured tight security and efficient crowd management. Barricades and iron grills were installed to manage vehicle parking, queue lines, and dining areas. Officials closely monitored the crowds to avoid inconvenience, while traffic on National Highway 63 between Nizamabad and Jagdalpur was regulated by the police. Elderly persons, mothers with infants, women, and children were able to complete their darshan comfortably. At Uttara Tirupati in Gangasthan, devotees were served breakfast, lunch, dinner, and prasadam, while uniformed volunteers managed crowds at the darshan areas and food venues.

Nizamabad, Medak feel the winter chill

Nizamabad: The undivided districts of Nizamabad and Medak have been experiencing severe cold conditions over the past few days, with temperatures plummeting to single digits. The chilly weather has caused widespread discomfort, particularly affecting the elderly and children, as many struggle with cold-related health issues. In Nyalkal of Sangareddy district, the temperature dropped to 9.9C on Friday, the lowest in the region. Other areas also recorded unusually low temperatures, including 10.1C in Dongli mandal of Kamareddy district, 12.0C in Nizamabad South mandal, 12.1C in Kondapaka of Siddipet district, and 12.4C in Tekmal of Medak district. The biting cold has led to reduced activity in public spaces such as bus stations, railway stations, and temples, which typically see heavy footfall during the morning hours. For days now, people have been reluctant to leave their homes, and even popular spots like the Government Polytechnic Ground in Nizamabad, frequented by hundreds of morning walkers, have been deserted.

Telangana: BJP Announces Candidates for Council Elections

TS BJP president and union minister G. Kishan Reddy said the Vajpayee government had introduced many reforms, kickstarted development and welfare programmes. (File Image: Twitter) TS BJP president and union minister G. Kishan Reddy said the Vajpayee government had introduced many reforms, kickstarted development and welfare programmes. (File Image: Twitter) Hyderabad: Telangana BJP president and Union minister G. Kishan Reddy on Friday nominated party candidates for polls to three Legislative Council seats. Puli Sharat Kumar, school assistant from Warangal and general secretary of the Panchayat Raj Teachers' Union, was fielded from the MLC teachers constituency of Nalgonda-Warangal-Khammam. Malka Komaraiah of Peddapalli in Karimnagar district, chairman of the Pallavi group of institutions, was fielded from the MLC teachers constituency for Karimnagar-Nizamabad-Adilabad-Medak. Sangareddy-based entrepreneur C. Anji Reddy, who hails from Ramachandrapuram in Medak district, was fielded as the candidate from the MLC graduates constituency for Karimnagar-Nizamabad-Adilabad-Medak. His wife, Godavari Anji Reddy, is presently president of the partys Sangareddy district unit.

On-Off Water Supply to Farmers Served by SRSP

Hyderabad: Irrigation minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy on Friday directed officials to ensure that farmers who depend on the Sriramsagar Project (SRSP) get adequate irrigation water for the Rabi season, particularly those who have land in the tail end of the projects canal system. The minister, who reviewed regulation of water supply in SRSP canals, told irrigation department officials to strictly regulate supplies to ensure there is equitable distribution of water. The officials informed the minister that a week-on, week-off schedule was being followed since December 25 for water supply and that this system will continue until April 8 this year. Officials also informed that Rabi season required 77.76 tmc ft of water for areas above the Lower Manair Dam (LMD), and another 49.89 tmc ft for farmland below it. At present, the SRSP reservoir has 80.5 tmc ft of water, which is sufficient to meet the needs of areas upstream of the LMD, the officials said. Uttam Kumar Reddy, taking stock of the situation, urged officials to ensure judicious use of the water to ensure maximum availability to farmers, and ensure proper maintenance of canals. Adequate storage should be maintained for drinking water and for municipal needs. The government has prioritised agriculture, drinking water, and industrial needs in the allocation plan, he said. The department is currently following an on-off system to supply irrigation to 9.68 lakh acres of farm land in Nizamabad, Jagtial, Karimnagar, Peddapalli and Warangal districts. Of this, 5,40,171 acres lie upstream of the LMD, covering the constituencies of Jagitial, Koratla, and Balkonda under Zone I, and Choppadandi, Karimnagar, and Dharmapuri under Zone II. Downstream of the LMD, the project serves 361,078 acres, with Zone I covering constituencies such as Manakondur, Huzurabad, and Parkal, and Zone II extending to Wardhannapet, Palakurthy, and Madhira.

BJP announces Malka Komariah, Anji Reddy and Sarottham Reddy as candidates for MLC polls

Hyderabad: Telangana BJP here on Friday declared the names of three candidates including renowned educationist Malka Komariah and industrialist C Anji Reddy for the ensuing MLC elections in the State. Following instructions from BJP All India president Jagat Prakash Nadda, Telangana BJP State president and Union Coal Minister G Kishan Reddy released the list of three candidates for the MLC elections. The party announced the name of Komariah from Peddapally for MLC Teachers Constituency - Karimnagar-NizamabadAdilabad-Medak, C Anji Reddy from Sangareddy for MLC Graduates Constituency - Karimnagar-NizamabadAdilabad-Medak and Puli Sarottham Reddy of Warangal for MLC Teachers Constituency - Nalgonda-Warangal-Khammam. Komaraiah hails from Peddpally in the Karimnagar district. He completed his B.E. from Osmania University. Subsequently, he established schools and has done significant work in promoting quality education at the school level. He established educational institutions in Peddapally, Nirmal and Hyderabad. Currently, he is the Chairman of Pallavi Group of Institutions Hyderabad. As an academic administrator and an educator, he has made immense contributions towards enhancing quality education. Further, with his vast experience in the domain, he has a vision for the promotion of educational architecture in Telangana. Anji Reddy, who is a BA Maths graduate, hails from Ramchandrapuram in Medak district. He has been an entrepreneur with investments in diverse areas. He has been associated with the nationalist ideology right from childhood. His wife Godavari Anji Reddy is presently the president of the BJP Sangareddy district. Anji Reddy runs SR trust for last two decades. SR trust has been actively working for providing drinking water in the villages in addition to enhancing education opportunities for the poor. Sarottham Reddy hailing from Warangal served as a school assistant for over 21 years and as a headmaster for over 10 years. He was general secretary of PRTU from 2012 to 2019. He was very active in the separate Telangana agitation as part of Teachers JAC. As a teacher and as an activist, he has done exemplary service for the resolution of long-pending teachers issues.

Turmeric Farmers Seek Better Price for Produce

Nizamabad: The Telangana State Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Commission chairman, M. Kodanda Reddy, said that the state government is giving utmost importance to the farm sector. After Punjab, Telangana is the only state in the country that has an agriculture commission, he said. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy is always concerned about the welfare of farmers, he added. On Thursday, Kodanda Reddy, along with members Gadugu Gangadhar, K.V. Narasimha Reddy, Ramreddy Gopal Reddy, and M. Bhavani, visited turmeric crop fields in Balkonda, Kammarpally, and Velpur mandals. Following the field visit, the commission held a meeting with district officials, traders, farmers, Spices Board officials, and others at the District Integrated Offices Complex. Speaking at the meeting, Kodanda Reddy highlighted that farmers cultivate valuable and auspicious turmeric in Nizamabad district but are unable to secure remunerative prices. We will submit a report to the state government to help turmeric farmers, he stated. Setting aside politics, a helping hand should be given to turmeric farmers, he emphasised. The commission was informed about the low prices of turmeric in the Nizamabad Agriculture Market Yard, contrasting with higher prices for the same produce in Maharashtra. In response, the commission chairman was urged to take steps for the welfare of turmeric farmers. Farmers also requested subsidies for electric boilers and polishing machines to aid in the boiling of turmeric. Kodanda Reddy directed Spices Board officials to create awareness about quality turmeric cultivation to achieve better prices. Present at the meeting were Konda Laxman Bapuji University vice-chancellor Raji Reddy, Seeds Development Corporation chairman S. Anvesh Reddy, State Cooperative Unions Limited chairman Manala Mohan Reddy, Urdu Academy chairman Taher Bin Hamdan, district collector Rajiv Gandhi Hanumanthu, additional collector Ankith, and other dignitaries.

Police thrash 2 drivers for not carrying documents in Telanganas Balkonda

Hyderabad: A shocking incident has surfaced from Nizamabad district in Telangana where two drivers were allegedly beaten up by a Balkonda sub-inspector for not carrying relevant documents. Detailing the event, Majlis Bachao Tehreek (MBT) spokesperson Amjad Ullah Khan said in an X post that Shaik Raheem and Mohammed Hafeez, who are in the business of 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 .

Temples in Nizamabad gear up for Vaikunta Ekadasi

Warangal: Vaishnavite temples across Nizamabad district are decked out for the auspicious occasion of Vaikunta Ekadasi on January 10. Temples including Indur Tirumala in Narsingpally village (Mopal mandal), Apuroopa Venkateshwara in Adavi Mamidipally village (Makloor mandal), and Telangana Tirumala in Timmapur (Birkur mandal) have been beautifully adorned for the special Uttara Dwara (North Door) darshan on Friday. Thousands of devotees are expected to visit Sri Venkateswara Swamy temples in the district to mark the occasion. Temples such as Ramalayam in Subhashnagar, Janda Balaji Mandir, and Sri Venkateswara Swamy temples in Aryanagar, Bodhan, and Dichpally are also prepared for the festivities. Pallaki Seva and other special rituals will be performed to celebrate the event. Sri Ganapati Sacchidananda Swamy Ji is scheduled to visit the Uttara Tirupati temple in Gangasthan-2, Nizamabad. Special darshan will commence at 5 am on Friday, drawing devotees from far and wide. The temple committees, in coordination with endowment department officials, have been working diligently to make arrangements for the celebrations. Several volunteers joined hands on Thursday to assist with preparations.

Bike Rally Promotes Road Safety Awareness

Nizamabad: A motorcycle rally was held in Nizamabad on Thursday to promote road safety awareness. District collector Rajiv Gandhi Hanumanthu and district judge Sunitha Kunchala flagged off the rally at NTR Crossroads. As part of Road Safety Awareness Month, the transport and police departments jointly organised the event. Policemen and civilians participated in the rally, which traversed major thoroughfares across the town. Addressing the gathering, officials emphasized the importance of wearing helmets on two-wheelers and fastening seat belts in four-wheelers, urging the public to prioritise safety and caution.

MLC Srinivas criticizes Dil Raju for humiliating Telangana culture

Hyderabad: MLC Desapati Srinivas on Thursday slammed film producer Dil Raju for making demeaning remarks against the people of Telangana stating that those in the State ould give preference only to toddy and mutton ignoring to watch movies. The film producer also said the people in Andhra Pradesh would give more preference to movies. Dil Raju said that there was no vibe for movies released in Telangana and the same can be found in Andhra Pradesh. If Dil Raju believes that there is no vibe for films in Telangana, he can stop making movies and open a toddy and mutton shop so that he will get a vibe in the State, he said. If you (Dil Raju) need a vibe, then open a shop. When you say that there is no vibe for films in Telangana, then why did you ask Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy and ensure an increase in ticket prices for the movies. Why did Dil Raju manage to get an order from the State government to increase ticket prices in the Nizam area? Srinivas asked. Speaking to media persons, Srinivas said Dil Raju was such a person, who never extended support for separate Telangana movement and the people in the State. While speaking at an event organized in Nizamabad to promote his upcoming movie Sankranti Ki Vastunnam starring victory Venkatesh and others, Dil Raju humiliated Telangana culture and further stated that the people in the State have no vibe for movies and only prefer toddy and mutton.

TNGOs Calendar, Diary Released

Nizamabad: The Telangana Non-Gazetted Officers (TNGOs) Association held its standing council meeting on Wednesday. Attendees included Nizamabad rural MLA R. Bhupathi Reddy, TNGOs state president Maram Jagadish, secretary Mujeeb, district president Nashetty Suman, secretary Nethikunta Sekhar, Urdu Academy state chairman Taher Bin Hamdan, Nizamabad Urban Development Authority chairman Kesha Venu, and Congress leaders Narala Ratnakar and Sekhar Goud. During the event, the TNGOs calendar and diary were officially released by the guests.

Youth Congress Protests BJP Leaders Remark on Priyanka

Nizamabad: Youth Congress, NSUI, and Sevadal activists staged a protest on Wednesday against BJP leader Ramesh Bidhuri's comments on Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. They raised slogans demanding an apology from the BJP leadership, accusing them of disrespecting women and enabling individuals accused of crimes against women to serve as MPs, MLAs, and ministers. Congress municipal corporator Gadugu Rohith, NSUI district president Venu Raj, Sevadal president Harshad, and Youth Congress Nizamabad town president Moinuddin participated in the protest. Meanwhile, BJYM activists tried to attack the Congress office in Nizamabad but were prevented by police.

Congress launches survey to assess 6G implementation

Nizambad: Congress activists and leaders launched a door-to-door survey in villages and towns to assess the implementation of the six guarantees promised by the party high command. They are interacting with beneficiaries to gather feedback on existing and proposed schemes, coinciding with the issuance of new ration cards after January 26. Congress MLAs expressed concerns about the lack of awareness among people regarding state government programmes like free RTC bus travel, LPG cylinder benefits, and crop loan waivers. They believe Opposition parties are intensifying anti-government campaigns in rural and urban areas, affecting public perception. To counter this, MLAs have directed local leaders to form coordination committees covering three villages each. These teams are engaging directly with residents to discuss government schemes. Yellareddy MLA Madanmohan Rao urged Congress leaders to actively participate in the survey to gauge public sentiment. Farmers, youth, and women have voiced their demand for enhanced schemes like Rythu Bandhu, job recruitment, and Kalyana Lakshmi with a gold gift. The opinions thus collected are being consolidated at the Assembly constituency level in Nizamabad and Kamareddy districts for submission to the party high command.

Why worry about police, if it is a flimsy case, asks Raghunandan Rao

Hyderabad :BJP Medak MP M. Raghunandan Rao on Tuesday wondered why BRS working president K.T. Rama Rao was worried about appearing before the ACB if the Formula E-race case, according to him, was flimsy. KTR himself had appreciated the Telangana police as the greatest police force in the country. Why is he worried about appearing before them, the BJP leader asked. Ridiculing Rama Raos demand to allow his advocate to be present during questioning by the ACB, Raghunandan Rao said that if all accused sought such a facility, what could do the investigation agencies do. When the BRS was in power, we have been booked in several cases, but we have never made such strange demands, he said. Terming the double standards of Rama Rao as the wrong approach, Raghunandan Rao recalled Rama Raos remarks that government pleaders were exposed when his lawyer made a strong argument before the court. How come the court dismissed his petition, the BJP MP asked. Nizamabad MP Dharmapuri Arbind said that Kalwakuntla family was the most timid. Insecurity is building among them for sins that they have committed. With abundant money in KTRs possession, he is hiring more advocates to help him to escape the case, he said. Arvind said that Rama Rao was not unable to sleep for his wrong doings during their rule. He must be put behind bars and we have to see him behind the bars, he said.

Minister Launches 50 Electric Buses in Warangal

Warangal: The Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) launched 50 electric buses at a grand ceremony held at Hygreevachary Grounds in Hanamkonda on Monday. Ministers Ponnam Prabhakar, Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy, and Konda Surekha flagged off the buses. The Warangal region has been allocated 112 electric buses, with 25 more set to hit the roads before Sankranti and the rest to follow. Transport minister Ponnam Prabhakar highlighted the Congress government's initiatives, including free bus travel for women, which was availed by 125 crore women so far at a cost of Rs 4,350 crore. He praised RTC employees for their key role in the Telangana movement and noted reforms to restore RTCs glory after challenges under the previous government. Across the state, 1,000 electric buses have been introduced, enhancing eco-friendly public transport in districts like Hyderabad, Karimnagar, and Nizamabad.

Congress MLA sees Kalvakuntla family going to jail soon

Nizamabad: Nizamabad Rural MLA R. Bhupathi Reddy alleged that former Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Raos family members would face legal action and possible imprisonment for corruption during their tenure. He claimed that democracy was revived in Telangana after Congress came to power. Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Reddy accused the BRS government of misusing 21,000 crore by allotting Rythu Bandhu funds to barren lands. He said voters rejected KCRs family rule and autocratic leadership in the last Assembly and Parliament elections, opting instead for the Congress. Reddy assured that the Congress government would soon release 12,000 per acre under the Rythu Bharosa scheme and allocate 20,000 crore for Indiramma houses, ensuring housing for all eligible beneficiaries. He criticised the previous BRS government for burdening the state with 7 lakh crore debt while ignoring the welfare of Backward Classes by reducing reservations to 27 per cent. The MLA reiterated Congresss commitment to implementing 42 per cent reservations for BCs in local body elections. He also criticised BRS working president K.T. Rama Rao, alleging that Rama Raos statements about being willing to go to jail for the public were contradictory to his efforts to avoid arrest by approaching the High Court.

Farmers Want Nizam Sugars Reopened to Cultivate Sugarcane

Nizamabad: Farmers in Telangana are urging the state government to reopen the Nizam Sugar Factory (NSF) to resume sugarcane cultivation. They are requesting assistance such as advanced machinery, subsidies, and bonuses, believing that reopening NSF units in Bodhan, Metpally, and Medak will benefit multiple sectors. A major meeting was held on Saturday at Yedapally mandal headquarters in Bodhan Assembly constituency, attended by farmers from Bodhan, Banswada, and Nizamabad rural areas, along with Congress MLAs P. Sudarshan Reddy, R. Bhupathi Reddy, and other officials. Farmers explained that they switched to paddy cultivation in 2015 after NSF closed but are now eager to return to sugarcane, emphasising the need for seed subsidies, crop bonuses, and early payments for sugarcane supply. Senior Congress MLA P. Sudarshan Reddy, a member of the state government committee on Nizam Sugars, said that Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy supports reopening NSF to restore prosperity in north Telangana. He announced that the government has paid Rs 190 crore to Nizam Deccan Sugars Limited (NDSL) to resolve factory issues and plans to use existing plants while setting up new ones. Reddy highlighted the goal of cultivating at least 15,000 acres of sugarcane for factory needs. Despite the farmers' push, agriculture scientists advised against exclusively cultivating sugarcane, citing potential soil damage and the importance of crop diversification. They acknowledged that modern technology makes sugarcane cultivation easier but stressed the need for varied farming practices. The meeting also attended by Urdu Academy chairman Taher Bin Hamdan, agriculture commission member Gadugu Gangadhar, and other local leaders.

Telangana: Couple Killed in Road Mishap on Highway

Nizamabad: A couple, identified as Maggidi Laxman (57) and his wife Maggidi Rajamani (52) of Kosli village in Navipet mandal, died in a road accident late Friday night on the Nizamabad-Basar highway. The accident occurred when a speeding lorry from the Basar route collided with their motorbike, killing them on the spot. Sources reported that the couple had visited their daughter's in-laws in Abbapur village earlier that day and were returning home on their motorbike. The collision happened near a narrow curve at the Mission Bhagiratha water tank when the lorry, coming from the opposite direction, struck their vehicle. Navipet police arrived at the scene, transported the bodies to Government General Hospital in Nizamabad for post-mortem, and registered a case. An investigation into the incident is underway. Family members and relatives were inconsolable at the scene of the tragedy. The last rites of the deceased were conducted on Saturday in their native village.

Elderly couple dies in accident in Telanganas Nizamabad

Hyderabad: An elderly couple died in an accident in Telanganas Nizamabad district on Saturday, January 4. The accident occurred when a lorry hit the couples bike in Navipet mandal. The deceased were identified as Laxman, 60, and Rajamani, 55. The couple were reportedly travelling towards Navipet when a speeding lorryhittheir bike from behind, following which 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 .

RPO makes issue of passports faster

Hyderabad: The Regional Passport Office (RPO) in Hyderabad has improved appointment cycles at its five Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs), reducing wait times from nearly 22 working days in 2023 to an average ofsixtoeightworking days in 2024. Tatkal appointments are now available withinonetofiveworking days, while PSKs in Nizamabad and Karimnagar offer appointments the next working day. Regional Passport Officer, Hyderabad,J. Snehaja on Friday announced that RPO Hyderabad, which operates fivePSKsand 14postofficePSKs,was processing an average of 4,200 applications daily. It has handled approximately 9.2 lakh applications in 2024, including passport issuance,policeclearancecertificates and other related services. At POPSKs, normal appointments are now available within a week, making services. Snehaja stated that RPO aims to further reduce appointment cycles to within five working days across all centers. Tatkal passports are delivered withinonetothreeworking days, while normal passports are issued withinfivetosevenworking days, excluding police verification. Snehaja noted that Telangana police has one of the fastest verification processes, contributing to these achievements and Support from the department of posts also played a key role. The RPO for grievance redressal mechanisms, responded to over 10,000 emails and resolved issues within 1 to 3 working days. Most addressed redressal were about the required documents and pending of the police reports. It has also introduced a WhatsApp helpline alongside existing channels such as emails, RTI, Twitter and CPGRAMS. In 2024, over 30,000 inquiry applicants utilised the walk-in facility available on Thursdays, with an average of 700 to 800 applicants availing the service weekly. To ensure uninterrupted services during reconstruction works at the Kamareddy POPSK, a mobile passport van has been deployed. The RPO also collaborated with the Telangana State Haj Committee to process applications for Haj pilgrimage. Lok Adalats are organised on Saturdays to clear pending files and to reduce backlogs. As part of the celebrations marking 75 years of the Indian Constitution, the RPO launched a special envelope for passport dispatches as a tribute to the Constitutions significance. Snehaja also said the Secretariat branch in Hyderabad, which provides services for both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh for apostille and attestation of documents for legal purposes. With a 25 per cent increase in processing, the Secretariat cleared 1,400 apostille cases and is targeting further growth.

Urban districts have nearly a quarter childhood malnutrition cases in Telangana

HYDERABAD : Malnutrition continues to dog children, especially those from the poorer sections of the society, who typically send their children to government-run anganwadis, with more than 47,000 children identified as suffering from moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) or severe acute malnutrition (SAM). Data available with the government shows that of the 47,654 children identified with MAM and SAM conditions, the highly urbanised districts of Hyderabad, Rangareddy, Sangareddy and Medchal-Malkajgiri account for 10,067 malnutrition cases, referred to as total wasting cases. Rangareddy district, with 2,989 such cases tops the state, followed by Bhadradri-Kothagudem, Nizamabad, Sangareddy, Hyderabad, Medak and Medchal-Malkajgiri districts with respect to total wasting cases. While a child with very low weight-to-height/length ratio and a mid-upper arm circumference of less than 115 mm is considered to be suffering from SAM, a child with weight-to-height/length ratio and a mid-upper arm circumference of between 115 mm and 125 mm is considered to be suffering from moderate acute malnutrition. Incidentally, none of these districts figure in the best supply districts in terms of food items supplied to anganwadis. These items include balamrutham, murukulu (snack), balamrutham plus, red gram dal, milk, eggs and oil, according to data available with the women and child welfare department. With respect to cases related to women and children, according to the data, between January and November of 2024, the Sakhi/One Stop Centres recorded 6,554 cases of domestic violence. While 1,237 cases of abduction and kidnapping were reported, there were 2,434 POCSO cases and 320 cases pertaining to harassment across the state. Malnutrition cases top six districts: District MAM* SAM** Wasting cases Rangareddy 2,441 548 2,989 Bhadradri-Kothagudem 2,184 462 2,646 Nizamabad 2,157 384 2,541 Sangareddy 2,032 449 2,481 Hyderabad 2,053 377 2,430 Medchal-Malkajgiri 1,923 244 2,167 (*Moderate Acute Malnutrition, **Severe Acute Malnutrition) Sakhi/one stop centre cases*** Domestic violence 6,554 Rape 8 Sexual offence/harassment 11 Trafficking of women 12 Pocso cases 2434 Child marriages 189 Missing/kidnapping/abduction 1,237 Cybercrime/cheating 339 Dowry harassment 320 Other crimes 1,750 (***Jan-Nov 2024)

Passing Out Parade Held in Dichpally Battalion

Nizamabad: A Dikshant Parade (passing out parade) for newly recruited police constables was held at the Telangana State Special Police 7th Battalion in Dichpally on Friday. In-charge commissioner of police Ch. Sindhu Sharma attended the programme as the chief guest. A total of 463 stipendiary constables from the 14th batch successfully completed their nine-month training at Dichpally. Speaking on the occasion, Sindhu Sharma emphasised that police constables must perform their duties with fairness. She stated that discrimination on any grounds is unacceptable and that all individuals are equal while discharging their responsibilities. She also commended the top-performing constables for their merit during the training programme. Present at the event were 7th Battalion Commandant P. Satyanarayana and other distinguished guests.

Farmers to Discuss Reopening Nizam Sugar Factory

Nizamabad: A farmers' meeting will be held on January 4 at the Yedapally Mandal Headquarters to deliberate on the reopening of the Nizam Sugar Factory. The meeting will be conducted by Bodhan MLA P. Sudarshan Reddy at the Sarayu Function Hall to gather farmers' opinions on sugarcane cultivation. Addressing the urgent need to enhance sugarcane production, the discussion will focus on improving cultivation practices in the districts of Nizamabad, Kamareddy, Medak, Sangareddy, Siddipet, Jagtial, Karimnagar, and Nirmal to ensure a steady supply to the Nizam Sugar Factory. Following the collection of farmers' feedback, Sudarshan Reddy plans to engage with the state government to advocate for the early reopening of the Nizam Sugar Factory in Bodhan, Metpally, and Medak.

Telangana: Three Missing Girls Found Within 24 Hours

Nizamabad: Three SSC girl students who went missing from Navipet Mandal Headquarters in Nizamabad district were found in different areas within 24 hours. Police traced them in Nizamabad and Vemulawada. The students, attending Zilla Parishad High School for Girls in Navipet, went to school on Thursday but failed to return home. Alarmed by their absence, the parents filed a complaint with the Navipet police on the same day. Reports indicated that one girl was found at the Nizamabad bus station on Thursday night. Police teams reviewed CCTV footage from the route between the school and Navipet bus stand, as well as from the Nizamabad bus station and other locations within the district. On Friday, the police located the remaining two girls in the temple town of Vemulawada. Navipet police sub-inspector Vinay travelled to Vemulawada and brought the girls back to their hometown. Authorities believe that the three girls went out for a 'joy trip.' Taking advantage of free travel on RTC buses, the trio used their Aadhaar cards to board the buses. It remains unclear where the two girls spent the night on Thursday.

Telangana Coldwave: Asifabad Records 6.5C

As a cold wave swept across south-interior Karnataka, the minimum temperature fell to below 7 degrees Celsius on Friday morning, but warmed gradually, said the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC). As a cold wave swept across south-interior Karnataka, the minimum temperature fell to below 7 degrees Celsius on Friday morning, but warmed gradually, said the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC). Hyderabad : The state is witnessing a significant drop in night time temperatures. According to Telangana Development Planning Society (TGDPS) data, the cold wave has gripped several parts of the State, marking a sharp decrease in mercury levels. Kumuram Bheem Asifabad registered 6.5C, followed by Sangareddy at 6.9C and Adilabad at 7.1C. Other districts Vikarabad (7.3C), Rangareddy (7.5C), Kamareddy (8C), Nirmal (8.5C), Mahabubnagar and Rajanna Sircilla (both at 9C), Medak (9.1C), Medchal Malkajgiri (9.6C), Siddipet (9.7C), Jayashankar Bhupalpally (9.9C), and Narayanpet and Jagtial (10C). Districts recording temperatures above 10C include Nagarkurnool (10.3C), Nizamabad (10.6C), Mancherial (10.7C), and Mulugu, Nalgonda, and Yadadri Bhongir (all at 10.8C). Karimnagar saw a minimum of 10.9C, followed by Warangal (11.1C), Jangaon (11.3C), Mahabubabad (11.4C), Peddapalli (11.5C), and Bhadradri Kothagudem (11.8C). Hyderabad recorded a minimum temperature of 12.1C. Other areas included Hanamkonda (12.2C), Suryapet (12.3C), Jogulamba Gadwal (12.4C), Wanaparthy (12.9C), and Khammam, which recorded the highest minimum temperature in the state at 13.2C.

Public hearing held on SC classification

Nizamabad: Justice Shamim Akhtar announced that a comprehensive report on Scheduled Castes (SC) classification will be submitted soon, incorporating opinions from various sections of society. The state government appointed Justice Akhtar, a retired High Court judge, as a one-member commission on SC classification. On Thursday, he conducted a public hearing at the district integrated offices complex. SC elected representatives, government employees, teachers, doctors, advocates, and SC organisation leaders from Nizamabad and Kamareddy districts participated in the hearing, presenting their views and submitting memorandums. Groups like Mala, Madiga, Jangam, Chindula, Beda Budaga Jangam, Bhaindla, and Mangulu contributed, with some, including Budaga Jangalu and Bhaindla members, attending in traditional attire. Objections to the proposed classification were also raised. District collector Rajiv Gandhi Hanumanthu, additional collector Ankith, and other officials were present at the event.

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.

AIMIM Dissolves Its Bodhan Town Committee

Nizamabad: In preparation for the upcoming local body elections, the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) dissolved its Bodhan town committee on Wednesday. The decision was taken following directives from AIMIM chief and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi, said AIMIM Nizamabad district president Mohammad Fayazuddin. AIMIM Nizamabad city president Mohammad Shakil Ahmad Fazil, general secretary Mohammad Shabaz Ahmad, and others met with district president Fayazuddin on Wednesday to formalise the decision. The AIMIM district committee also consulted MLA and Nizamabad district in-charge Ahmed Bin Abdulla Balala regarding the dissolution. District president Fayazuddin stated that a new committee for Bodhan would be appointed soon, with the aim of strengthening the party's base in the area. Bhainsa municipal chairman Mohammad Jabir Ahmad and others will oversee the formation of the new committee. AIMIM Nizamabad city president Mohammad Shakil Ahmad Fazil, general secretary Mohammad Shabaz Ahmad, and other party leaders were present during the announcement.

New Year eve brought cheers to Nizamabad

Nizamabad: Ahead of New Year celebrations on Tuesday, 20 police teams were deployed to keep tabs on revelers. By keeping watch on wine shops, bar and restaurants, police tightened security measures in Nizamabad district. In-charge commissioner of police Ch. Sindhu Sharma supervised the security arrangements during the celebrations in Nizamabad, Bodhan and Armoor police divisions. To avoid road accidents, drunken driving tests were taken up at various places in the district. Police officers warned revellers not to stay in groups on the roads after 12.30 am. Police in large numbers were deployed at sensitive places in Nizamabad district. On the other hand, festive look was witnessed in the district during New Year celebrations. Eateries, hotels offered special prices to add to the revelry.

Telangana to launch 799 new TGSRTC electric buses by March 2024

Hyderabad: The Telangana government has announced the introduction of799 new electric busesby March 2024 as part of its commitment to enhancing public transportation and reducing pollution. Transport minister Ponnam Prabhakar revealed that353 of these buses will be allocated for Hyderabad, while the remaining446 will serve various districtsincluding Karimnagar, Warangal, Nalgonda, Suryapet, and Nizamabad. This action 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 .

Final electoral rolls out for Council polls

Hyderabad : The final electoral rolls for Medak-Nizamabad-Adilabad- Karimnagar Graduates Constituency, Medak-Nizamabad-Adilabad- Karimnagar and Warangal-Khammam-Nalgonda Teachers Constituencies, were released on Monday. Chief electoral officer C. Sudharshan Reddy announced the final publication of electoral rolls following the completion of claims and objections. For Medak-Nizamabad-Adilabad- Karimnagar Graduates Constituency, 499 polling stations have been proposed, wherein male voters are 2,18,060, female (1,23,250), and transgenders (3). The constituency has total 3,41,313 electors. For Medak-Nizamabad-Adilabad- Karimnagar Teachers Constituency, 274 polling booths have been earmarked. It has 16,364 male voters and female voters (9,557). The constituency has a combined strength of 25,921 voters. For Warangal-Khammam-Nalgonda Teachers Constituency, 200 polling stations have been proposed. The constituency has 14,940 male voters and female (9,965) with total strength of electors is 24,905.

Drugs Control Administration Seizes Overpriced Medicines in Telangana

Hyderabad: Drugs Control Administration (DCA) raided the clinic of Majigi Manohar Lal, an unauthorised practitioner, on Saturday and seized stock of drugs worth `47,000 kept for sale from at Jajapur village in Narayanpet. The DCA said it had registered cases against 137 quacks for the illegal stocking and sale of drugs this year. Elsewhere, the DCA raided Siddhartha Pharmacy in Mahbubabad and found the sale of a medicine, Thiohil Gel, had higher than maximum retail price (MRP). The officials also found medicines being sold with false advertisements from various places in Nizamabad, Mahabubnagar, Ranga Reddy, Medchal, Hyderabad, and Vikarabad.

NETA NATTER | KCR THE VORACIOUS READER?

When is scholarly knowledge best put to use? When that knowledge is shared with others for public good, is the accepted norm. Pushing for this, and targeting BRS president and former chief minister K. Chandrashekar Rao, has been Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy. While initiating a discussion on the Bhu Bharati Bill in the Assembly, Revanth fervently appealed to KCR to attend the Assembly session, present his views, and put the knowledge the latter gained from reading 80,000 or more books that KCR had claimed he had read, to good public use. However, with KCR staying away from the session, the question doing the rounds, at least in Congress circles, was why KCR was so reluctant to share the wisdom gleaned from all that reading. PAWAN KALYAN THE PEOPLES CM Pawan Kalyan may be busy with his duties as Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh but, for his followers, he remains the centre of attention. Why not dream bigger, is the apparent belief of his fans, an aspect that came to the fore during his recent tour of tribal villages. During his speech at an event, his devoted fans and well-wishers kept shouting CM, CM. Pawan lost no time to point out that the real CM was N. Chandrababu Naidu, and urged his fans to respect the position he holds, that of Deputy CM. Just being in the movies doesnt magically make things happen, he pointed out, adding that he was there to ensure that roads were laid. Let me do my work. If you want to head to the cinemas to make stars out of people, you need roads to get there first. UDTA ANDHRA PRADESH! Leave it to former Andhra Pradesh Speaker Ch. Ayyanna Patrudu to smoke out some bad weeds within his party. Recently, addressing a meeting in his constituency, Ayyanna said some of his own party members were involved in getting ganja into the state, and that they were meeting with him to get them out of cases when they were caught. Ayyannas outburst followed him catching some youngsters smoking ganja while on his way to his home town of Narsipatnam. Being critical of his own government is not new to Ayyanna. In 2017, as minister, he announced in public that the police had a role in ganja smuggling and heads of all departments knew the source of supply and the big shots involved in the trade. A CASE OF EMPTY VESSELS Its apparently hard to shed the ephemeral cloak of power for some politicians, who continue to seek to throw non-existent weight, especially when out of power. One such incident involving former minister in Andhra Pradesh, Kakani Govardhan Reddy, has been doing the rounds with folks pointing out that he appears to have adopted the philosophy of blame-the-bucket-when-the- well-runs-dry. His latest outburst against police and revenue officials followed the arrest of his aide Venkata Seshaiah in a sexual harassment case. Kakani, instead of addressing the charge, warned the police and revenue officials that they would be stripped of their uniforms and jobs once the YSRC came back to power. VIZAG STEEL PLANT AWAITS RESOLUTION Steely resolve apart, those fighting for protection of the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, seem buffeted with hope swinging between two sides. In the latest incident of this long-standing saga, the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant Parirakshana Porata Committee met with Union steel minister H.D. Kumaraswamy on December 18, indicating optimism that all outstanding issues related to the steel plant would be resolved by Sankranti. But at the same time, MP M. Sribharat presented a contrasting perspective, expressing concerns regarding the insufficient dialogue on the subject in Parliament. He highlighted the inadequate amount of `1,650 crore allocated by Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman for the steel plant. For VSP workers, now the question is on whom to place their faith in, and what is real, and what is kite-flying by one side or the other. ALLU BENEFICIARY STAYS MUM Do unto others. And this is what former Nandyal legislator and YSRC leader Silpa Ravi is being accused of not doing for actor Allu Arjun. In this case, the actors fans have been having a field day flaying Ravi for not commenting on Arjuns legal troubles. Despite being the beneficiary of Arjuns support, who visited his home in Nandyal during the elections, the visit resulting in a case against both of them for violating election rules, the actors fans say Arjun had to face a lot because of his support to Ravi, and now Ravi must now speak up for the actor. FIGHT OVER AMBEDKAR CONTINUES Claiming credit for something done right comes naturally to politicians, even if they might not be fully on the ball on a given issue. Such turned out to be the case with Andhra Pradesh BJP president and Rajamahendravaram Lok Sabha member D. Purandeswari. On the Congress agitation over Union home minister Amit Shahs references to Dr B.R. Ambedkar, Purandeswari said the Congress did nothing for the framer of the Constitution, and that it was the BJP that conferred the highest civilian honour in the country, the Bharat Ratna, on Dr Ambedkar when Vajpayee was the Prime Minister. This claim left many in her party red-faced but then they justified their leaders claim by saying the award was conferred when V.P. Singh was prime minister during the National Front government, which the BJP was supporting. Hence, the BJP can stake the claim of honouring Dr Ambedkar. TELUGU BABUS GIVEN A MISS AT CENTRE In an unusual trend, no IAS officers from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh have been empanelled for Central-level positions in recent years, sparking unease in bureaucratic circles. This gap deprives officers from these states of the opportunity to serve in key roles at the Centre. There is a glaring underrepresentation of Telugu-origin IAS officers in senior Central positions such as secretary, additional secretary, and joint secretary ranks. Experts attribute this to a combination of factors, including reluctance by the state governments to issue no-objection certificates (NOCs) for central deputation. With a severe shortage of IAS officers to manage state-level affairs, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh appear hesitant to release their officers. If this trend persists, Telugu states risk losing their influence in the national bureaucratic landscape, a development that could have long-term implications for representation and policy advocacy at the Centre. ALLU ADVISER TO STEER CLEAR OF No. 11 All it takes is a series of unfortunate events to turn something innocuous into a menacing proposition. Take the No. 11 for instance. Everything was going swimmingly well for actor Allu Arjun until December 11, the day when a special additional screening of his movie Pushpa 2 turned into a disaster following a stampede at Sandhya theatre in Hyderabad, eventually ending up with Arjun becoming No. 11 in the list of accused in the police case related to the incident. Suddenly, folks are beginning to remember that it was also on May 11 that he went to Nandyal to support his friend from YSRC Silpa Ravi in the elections. Of course, then came the 11 am, present yourself at the police station for questioning order for Arjun. Once can be a coincidence, and twice may be. But Arjuns fans are now going about saying a third time surely means trouble and that the man should stay away from anything 11. REVANTH SHOWS STRENGTH IN LIEU OF PUSHPA-GATE It isnt often that the position of Chief Minister is seen as one occupying the bully pulpit but the Pushpa 2 stampede incident that threw actor Allu Arjun into the kind of limelight he, or his acolytes, were not used to, saw A. Revanth Reddy showing that the pulpit can indeed be used effectively. His trenchant take on displaying a sense of responsibility, or lack thereof, by those in the movie industry, and amongst Opposition politicians, apparently hit a raw nerve. Revanths lashing out at Opposition leaders and the Tollywood fraternity, asking Ye kaise insaan hai?, and charging them with rushing to actor Allu Arjun's residence to express solidarity after his brief jail stint, but failing to visit the grieving family for over three weeks, did the trick. Soon after, actors, movie producers and politicians made a beeline to the hospital where the nine-year-old survivor is reported to be on a very slow path of recovery from the stampede injuries at Sandhya theatre. Clearly, Revanth drawing a stark contrast between support for a mighty superstar and the neglect of a lower-middle-class family struck a chord with the public. The handing over financial aid by the movie industry bigwigs, and the expression of support by political leaders has yet again amplified Revanths image as a champion of common people. LUCKY HARISH STRIKES AGAIN Lady Luck seems to be smiling all the time at bureaucrat S. Harish. He enjoyed the confidence of the BRS top brass and held the plum posts of joint collector and collector of Rangareddy and Medchal districts. While his league mate Amoy Kumar was running around the ED offices over allegations of dubious land deals during his stint as collector of the same districts, Harish won the trust of the new dispensation. In the run-up to the Congress government launching its one-year-in-office celebrations, Harish found himself replacing Hanumantha Rao as information and public relations commissioner, taking over the spending of `300 crore for a publicity blitzkrieg for the government if some little birdies trilling in the Secretariat corridors are anything to go by. AP-TELANGANA DIVIDE SHOWS ITS UGLY HEAD Nizamabad Rural Congress MLA R. Bhupathi Reddys remarks against film actor Allu Arjun, and his calling Pushpa-2 trash, as well as his questioning the actors contribution to Telangana society, have suddenly made the politician popular on social media. Dr Bhupathi Reddy is an orthopaedician and began his political career with the then TRS as one of its founder members. His remarks on Allu Arjun, terming the latter an Andhra person and pucca businessman, and advice that the actor would do well to hold his tongue while speaking about Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, are now being seen as him settling old statehood political scores. The MLAs opponents are taking on Dr Bhupathi Reddy, saying he was raking up unwarranted differences between the people from AP and Telangana. REAL ESTATE SLUMP AN UNFOUNDED FEAR? When the time comes, even the reluctant make themselves visible. Such appears to be the case with GHMC commissioner K. Ilambarithi, who had hitherto been studiously staying away from the public eye, putting in an appearance during an informal chat with mediapersons the other day. Even officials not in town, like HMDA metropolitan commissioner Sarfaraz Ahmad, chimed in through a video conference rolling about numbers and details about building permissions and Huda approvals. The trigger was the consistent criticism from Opposition parties that the real estate sector was crumbling. The officials decided that it was time that they take the stage, of sorts, to clarify on what exactly was happening on the ground. According to them, all was good, and that fears of a real estate slump was nothing more than that, just a fear being spread by those inimical to the government of the day. Contributions from Vadrevu Srinivas, Neeraj Kumar, L. Venkat Ram Reddy, Laxmi Pranathi, Avinash P. Subramanyam, Aruna, K.M.P. Patnaik, P.V. Prasad, Nabinder Bommala, Narender Pulloor, and Mouli Mareedu

SRSP water released for Rabi crops

Food production in the state has dropped by around 25 per cent this year due to scarcity of rain which has affected both kharif and rabi crops. Food production in the state has dropped by around 25 per cent this year due to scarcity of rain which has affected both kharif and rabi crops. Nizamabad: Officials have started releasing 7,873 cusecs of water from the Sriramsagar Project (SRSP) into the Kakatiya main canal, Saraswathi canal, and Laxmi canal to safeguard Rabi crops. The reservoir's current water level stands at 1,090.40 feet, just below its full capacity of 1,091 feet, compared to 1,087.20 feet on the same day last year. The reservoir currently holds 78.276 TMC of water, an increase from 67.057 TMC a year ago. As the lifeline for erstwhile Nizamabad, Adilabad, Karimnagar, and Warangal districts, SRSP supplies water for agriculture and drinking purposes. Mission Bhagiratha officials are drawing water for drinking needs in Nizamabad, Kamareddy, Adilabad, Nirmal, and Jagtial districts. SRSP superintendent engineer T. Srinivas Rao Gupta urged farmers to use water judiciously and confirmed phased releases for Rabi crops in northern Telangana. Police and revenue officials across districts have been alerted to ensure proper water distribution. From June 1, 2024, to date, SRSP has received 282.317 TMC of inflows and released 211.380 TMC as outflows. The reservoirs full capacity is 80.5 TMC.

Rights Activist Who Fought Fake Encounters Dies at 67

Nizamabad: Former Human Rights Forum (HRF) state president and senior advocate Gorrepati Madhava Rao, 67, passed away on Saturday following a heart attack. He had been unwell for months and was admitted to a private hospital on Friday night, where he died the next day. Born in Gurnathapalem, Guntur district, in erstwhile Andhra Pradesh, Madhava Rao's family settled in Baswapur village, Nizamabad district. After completing his education in Nizamabad and Hyderabad, he worked as a tax consultant and advocate. A prominent civil rights activist, he fought against fake encounters during the peak of Left-Wing Extremism. He formed fact-finding committees and submitted reports to defend human rights. Madhava Rao is survived by his wife and two daughters. His body will be kept at Neelam Ramchandraiah Bhavan, Kotagally, on Sunday for public homage. As per his wishes, his body will be donated to Government Medical College in Nizamabad, and his eyes to the Lions Club. The Nizamabad Bar Association, elected representatives, and leaders of peoples organizations paid tributes to him.

HRF members shocked by Madhava Raos demise

Adilabad: Members of the Human Rights Forum (HRF) and state president Atram Bhujangarao expressed shock over the sudden demise of former HRF president Gorrepati Madhava Rao, who passed away due to cardiac arrest in Nizamabad on Saturday. In a statement, HRF state president Atram Bhujangarao from Adilabad remembered Madhava Rao as a guiding force with vast experience as an advocate and human rights activist. He recalled Madhava Raos visits to Adilabad to address issues concerning Adivasis, their empowerment, and protection of their constitutional rights.

Telangana: Woman waiting at bus stop raped in Nirmal

Hyderabad: A woman was allegedly raped by unidentified persons in Nirmal district of Telangana on Saturday, December 28. The incident occurred while the victim was waiting at a bus stop. According to police, the victim travelled to Nirmal from Nizamabad district and was waiting for an auto at the bus stop. She was approached by 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 .

2025 will commence with key election battles in Telangana

Hyderabad : The year 2025 is poised to witness a high-stakes political showdown in the state as the tenure of multiple local bodies comes to an end. With the term of the existing municipalities concluding on January 26, and the tenure of gram panchayats having ended this February, followed by those of zilla and mandal parishads in July, the state government is preparing for a series of elections. It is planning to conduct local body elections in phases between January and March. Incidentally, they will coincide with elections to teacher MLC seats and one graduate MLC seat, which are slated for March. The state Cabinet, in its scheduled meeting on December 30, is expected to finalise the election roadmap for these local bodies. The term of incumbent MLCs, including Graduate MLC T. Jeevan Reddy (Congress) from the Nizamabad-Adilabad-Medak-Karimnagar constituency, and two Teacher MLCs Alugubelli Narsi Reddy (Independent) from Nalgonda-Warangal-Khammam, and Kura Raghotham Reddy (PRTU) from Nizamabad-Adilabad-Medak-Karimnagar, will expire on March 29. The Congress government is sparing no effort to secure these seats, towards which it is engaging with voters across seven of the ten undivided districts in Telangana. The elections are widely seen as a referendum on the Congress governments performance since assuming office in December 2023. The last local body elections in 2019 resulted in an overwhelming victory for the then-ruling party BRS. However, the political dynamics have since shifted significantly. Over the past year, numerous district-level leaders and grassroots cadre have defected from the BRS to the Congress, altering the states political landscape. The Congress is pinning hopes on its flagship farmer-centric welfare schemes to sway the rural electorate. The`21,000 crore crop loan waiver that has benefitted 23 lakh farmers is expected to resonate strongly with the rural populace. The scheduled Sankranti launch of the Rythu Bharosa scheme will replace the BRS-initiated Rythu Bandhu. It promises Rs 15,000 per acre annually to farmersan increase from the Rs 10,000 provided under Rythu Bandhu. Additionally, Rythu Bharosa will extend support to landless and tenant farmers with Rs 12,000 per year, a provision that did not exist earlier. The Congress has also wooed paddy farmers by providing a bonus of Rs 500 per quintal for fine variety paddy during the kharif season. These initiatives are expected to tilt the rural vote bank in Congresss favour, feel its leaders. The elections will cover a vast demographic, with the states rural and urban electorate set to vote for ward members and sarpanches in 12,769 gram panchayats, 5,857 MPTCs (mandal parishad territorial constituencies) and 539 ZPTCs (zilla parishad territorial constituencies). These elections are critical for the Congress, which recently marked its first anniversary in power on December 7. As the BRS attempts to regain lost ground and BJP attempts to make inroads into rural areas, the Congress hopes that its pro-farmer schemes and grassroots mobilisation will consolidate its position ahead of these crucial elections.

Kamareddy: Cops intensify probe into trio found dead in lake

Nizamabad : Police have intensified the investigation into the deaths of Bhiknoor police sub-inspector Sathelli Sai Kumar, woman police constable L. Sruthi, and Bibipet society computer operator Nikhil. The trio's bodies were found in Adloor Yellareddy Lake in Sadashivanagar Mandal. Sadashivanagar police circle inspector Santosh has been appointed as the investigation officer. Alongside an IT team, police are analysing the call data records and CCTV footage linked to the deceased. A case was registered based on complaints from the victims' families, but it remains unclear whether the trio drowned accidentally or jumped into the lake. Superintendent of police Ch. Sindhu Sharma told Deccan Chronicle that clarity on the cause of death would emerge after the post-mortem report. She added that investigators are exploring multiple angles and gathering additional evidence. The bodies have since been handed over to the families.

11 youngsters get community service punishment in Nizamabad

Hyderabad: A magistrate in Nizamabad district gave community service punishment to 11 youths after being arrested in connection with separate cases in the district. The youths cleaned the open areas on the court premises as part of community service punishment and were released later in the evening. Of the 11 youngsters, three of them were found to be consuming alcohol in public places in Bodhan, while the remaining eight of them were involved in petty cases after quarreling with each other. Bodhan Inspector Venkata Narayana produced the 11 persons before the magistrate, who gave them community service punishment. In a drive against drunken driving in the district, the police produced 12 people before the magistrate after counseling them for driving in an inebriated condition. Of the 12 people, the court collected a fine of Rs.15,500 from the 11 people, while Shaik Abbas got three days imprisonment. As a crackdown would be launched against drunken driving till December 31 night, the police cautioned the people to celebrate the New year celebrations, complying with norms stipulated by the police in the larger interest of everyone.

Rs 500 paddy bonus lures Maharashtra, Karnataka suppliers

Nizamabad: The introduction of a Rs 500 bonus for paddy has inadvertently fuelled illegal transportation of paddy from neighbouring Maharashtra and Karnataka into Nizamabad and Kamareddy districts. Despite efforts by officials to strengthen inter-state borders, middlemen remain pivotal in facilitating the smuggling operations. Previously, farmers transported paddy to Maharashtra seeking higher prices. Under the guise of supporting farmers, certain traders diverted paddy from Nizamabad and Kamareddy to districts such as Nanded, Latur, Bheed, Parbhani, Jalna, Pune, Solapur, Mumbai, and other regions in Maharashtra. With the new Rs 500 bonus incentive, traders have started moving paddy back from Maharashtras Nanded district to Telanganas Nizamabad and Kamareddy districts. Civil supplies, revenue, and police officials have intensified coordination to block the influx of paddy from Maharashtra and Karnataka. However, these measures have largely failed due to the involvement of corrupt employees at key inter-state entry points. Traders exploit these vulnerabilities to smuggle paddy through locations including Salabathpur, Pothangal, Birkur, Salura, Kandakurthi, and Khandgaon.

Vigilance Serves Notice to HCA CEO on Irregularities

Hyderabad : Vigilance and enforcement (V&E) officials, who conducted searches at the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA), issued a notice to HCA CEO Sunil Kante seeking detailed records related to irregularities in documents and transactions. P. Srinivas from the regional V&E office served the notice, requesting information on the procedures for tenders, purchases and the awarding of IPL contracts, as well as details regarding other HCA events and matches. The notice demanded comprehensive records, including approval documents from the Apex Council and general body, tender notifications, bidder lists, successful bidders, award letters, agreements, invoices, cheque payments, delivery records and store inventory. Additionally, the officials sought details of IPL-related contracts for catering, transportation and other services from March 11, 2020, to the present. They also inquired about the status of turf wicket preparations in Mahbubnagar and Nizamabad districts, requesting explanations for any delays. The notice further requested information on the multi-level parking project at HCA, acknowledgments of financial statements shared with the current Apex Council members, the team sizes for Ranji Trophy and other state-level matches, and the corresponding player details for 2022, 2023 and 2024. Finally, the officials asked for a breakdown of BCCI grants annual, infrastructure, and womens cricket grants along with utilization details for the past three years (2022-2024).

Bonus Has Positive Uptick on Paddy Prices for Farmers

Hyderabad: The Telangana civil supplies department has procured a record 47.56 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) compared to 41.27 LMT by this time last year. Farmers in the state have given a thumbs-up to the Rs 500 bonus and said it has had a positive effect on the price of paddy. So far the department has paid Rs 10,252 crores for the 47.56 LMT of paddy procured. Of this 28.35 LMT is of coarse variety and 19.21 of fine varieties. The paddy was procured from 8.97 lakh farmers. A bonus of Rs 591 crores has been paid so far. Officials of the department said that the procurement will largely be completed by the first week of January. The department opened 8,318 paddy purchase centres (PPC), more than the 6,645 opened during the last Kharif season. N.G. Venkat, a farmer from Chittanoor village in Marikal mandal of Narayanpet district, said he gave around 300 quintals of paddy to the PPC. I gave paddy to the government as private traders tend to cheat. The government should speed up payment for paddy and bonus. V. Raju, another farmer from the same village, has opted to grow fine rice and coarse variety during the rabi again. But not all farmers have opted to sell to the government which insists on 17 per cent moisture and various other norms for purchasing paddy. G. Rami Reddy, a farmer from the same village, said that he chose to sell in the open market as drying the produce involves time, labour expenses to bring paddy to the norms prescribed. He further added the climate also plays truant influencing their choices. Agreeing with him is N.L. Prasad is a farmer from Ranampalli village of Rudrur mandal of Nizamabad district. Trying to get rid of moisture reduces the weight of a 70 kg bag of paddy by 8 to 9 kgs. Owing to lack of facilities to guard the paddy from rains, the price of the produce in the open market falls by Rs 200 if it rains. If continuous rains are forecast, he said the price falls further so farmers tend to sell to the traders to ward off these uncertainties.

Vigilance officials serve notice to HCA CEO

Hyderabad: The Vigilance and Enforcement officials, who conducted searches at the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA), served a notice to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), HCA seeking details in connection with irregularities in the form of documents, records. P Srinivas, Regional Vigilance and Enforcement office, served the notice to the CEO, asking to submit stipulated procedures for tenders and purchases made by the HCA including awarding IPL contracts and also pertaining to other matches and events of the HCA. In the notice, the Vigilance and Enforcement officials sought details of all purchases including copies of connected documents such as approvals of Apex Council, general body, tender notifications, list of bidders and successful bidder, letter of award, agreements, invoices, copies of cheque payments, material delivery records, records in stores. The officials also asked the CEO to submit details of IPL contracts such as catering, transpiration, services including copies of connected documents from March 11 202 till date. The Vigilance also focused on the status of Turf wicket preparation at Mahbubnagar and Nizamabad districts and if the work is delayed, reasons and circumstances for the same. The status of multi-level parking at the HCA, acknowledgements, served copies of financial statements on the members of the present Apex Council, stipulated team size of players for the Ranji Trophy matches, and other state level matches and respective number of tams members sent by the HCA and their details for the last three years such 2022, 2023 and 2024, the Vigilance officials asked in their notice. The officials, who verified the records, also asked to submit details of annual grants, infrastructure grant, women's cricket grant and other financial assistance in any other form the BCCI to the HCA for the last three years from 2022, 2023 and 2024 and their utilization details.

Water Released From Sriramsagar for Rabi Crops

Nizamabad: Water was released from the Sriramsagar project on Wednesday for rabi crops under ayacut area. Water was also simultaneously released for the Kakatiya main canal, Saraswathi and Laxmi canals. Farmers in large numbers took part in the programme. SRSP superintendent engineer Srinivas Rao Gupta performed pujas and offered flowers to the main canal before the release of water. Telangana state seeds development corporation chairman Sunketa Anvesh Reddy released water for Laxmi canal which caters for the irrigation needs of farmers in Nizamabad district. Nirmal MLA Eleti Maheshwar Reddy along with the farmers released water for Saraswathi canal for Nirmal district. For the cultivation of crops between Sriramsagar project and Lower Manair Dam (LMD) officials released the water for canals. Water will be released phase-wise up to April, 2025 for rabi crops along with drinking water needs under the Mission Bhagiratha scheme. Water level in Sriramsagar project on Wednesday was 1,090.90 feet as against its full capacity of 1,091.00 ft. On the same day, last year water level was 1,087.80 ft with 69.190 tmc of storage. At present, 80.053 tmc of water is stored against the full storage capacity is 80.5 tmc. Initially, 3,000 cusecs of water was released into Kakatiya main canal which would be gradually increased. In view of the release of water from Sriramsagar project, farmers in Nizamabad, Nirmal, Jagtial, Karimnagar and Peddapalli districts will benefit. Interestingly, SRSP has got 282.317 tmc of water from June 1, 2024, while 209.615 tmc of water was released into river Godavari as floodwater.

Release of water for Rabi crop in SRSP ayacut above LMD from today

About 4.43 lakh acres in Nizamabad, Jagtial, Peddapalli and Karimnagar to get water for irrigation

Vijayashanthi accuses BJP of exploiting Allu Arjun incident

Congress star campaigner Vijayashanthi addresses a road show in Nizamabad on Thursday in support of Congress MP candidate Madhu Goud Yashki. (Photo: DC) Congress star campaigner Vijayashanthi addresses a road show in Nizamabad on Thursday in support of Congress MP candidate Madhu Goud Yashki. (Photo: DC) Hyderabad: Congress leader Vijayashanthi responded to the Allu Arjun episode, calling it an unfortunate incident. She criticiSed those attacking Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy in connection with this matter. The incident, which unfolded during a movie release, is regrettable. Vijayashanthi accused the BJP of attempting to gain political advantage from it, pointing out that this is evident from the social media posts of BJP leaders from the Telugu states. She specifically took issue with BJP leaders who claim that the Congress government is trying to undermine the film industry in the state. Vijayashanthi emphasised that the film industry requires support from all political quarters. She urged all parties to work towards preventing such unfortunate incidents in the future.

BJPs Nizamabad MP Arvind meets Telangana CM Revanth Reddy

Suspended DSPs Remarks on Stampede Victim Spark Row

Hyderabad: Suspended Nizamabad district task force DSP Vishnu Murthy on Sunday held a press conference and said that Tollywood actor Allu Arjun should not provide compensation to the family of the Sandhya theatre stampede victim as it would constitute a bribe. Murthys services were attached to the DGP office and was subsequently suspended in October 2024. Central zone DCP Akshansh Yadav stated that Murthy had conducted the press meet without obtaining permission from higher authorities or intimating senior officers. This action is a clear violation of disciplinary norms, he said. The DCP said a report would be forwarded to the DGP for investigation and action.

Allot Land for Navodaya Vidyalayas: Arvind to CM

Hyderabad: BJP Nizamabad MP Dharmapuri Arvind urged Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy to allot 20 acres of land each in Nizamabad and Jagtial districts to set up Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas, which were recently approved by the Union government. Arvind, along with Jagtial MLA Dr Sanjay Kumar, met the Chief Minister at his residence on Sunday and brought to his notice the proposed sites in the two districts. He also explained about the ongoing road over bridge (RoB) works at Madhava Nagar near Nizamabad that was coming up with 50:50 central and state funds. The RoB near Adivi Mamidipally was fully funded by the Centre but the previous BRS administration had diverted the money, Arvind said. The BJP MP also pointed out that the contractors were facing tough times due to the inordinate delay in clearing their bills. He asked the Chief Minister to ensure the timely completion of all works. The BJP leader sought early completion of the obstacles limitation surface survey and submission of its findings to the Centre to carry out works pertaining to the Jakranpally greenfield airport. Later, the MP said that Revanth Reddy had responded positively to their requests.

Medical services in rural areas better now: Health minister

Nizamabad: Health minister C. Damodar Rajanarsimha announced major improvements to medical services in rural and tribal areas on Sunday. Under Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddys directive, the state is prioritising healthcare enhancements, including the upcoming establishment of cancer treatment centres in Nizamabad and Adilabad. Minister Rajanarsimha, accompanied by MLC B. Mahesh Kumar Goud and adviser Mohammad Ali Shabbir, inaugurated a new primary health centre at Renjal, Nizamabad. He also held a review meeting with district medical officers from Nizamabad and Kamareddy at the Government General Hospital, attended by MLAs P. Sudarshan Reddy, R. Bhupati Reddy, and Paidi Rakesh Reddy. Emphasising accountability, Rajanarsimha warned that government doctors favouring private practice would face strict action. He assured that hospital facilities would be fully equipped and vacancies filled promptly to meet healthcare needs. Highlighting Nizamabads role, the minister stated it will become a medical hub for surrounding Telangana districts. Officials present included district collector Rajiv Gandhi Hanumanthu and health officers Ajay Kumar and Vani.

Telangana HC relief for BDS student seeking re-admission

Hyderabad: A two-judge panel of the Telangana High Court came to rescue a student whose application seeking re-admission to BDS course was rejected by Kaloji Narayana Rao University of Health Sciences. The panel comprising Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice J. Sreenivas Rao was dealing with a petition filed by Arshiya Fathima. The petitioner contended that she was admitted to BDS course in 2016 at Meghna Institute of Dental Sciences, Nizamabad. She appeared in the Third Year examination of BDS course in January, 2020, and cleared all the subjects. The petitioner was eligible to appear in the Fourth-Year examination of BDS course in March 2021; September 2021; January 2022; September 2022 and January 2023. However, the petitioner was unable to pay the examination fee. The petitioner contended that as soon as she was in a position to pay the examination fee, she submitted her representation seeking permission to appear in the examination of Fourth year BDS course which is scheduled to be held in January 2025. The representation submitted by the petitioner was rejected on October 28 by the university, inter alia on the ground that the petitioner was required to clear the examinations in all the subjects within a period of nine years including one-year compulsory Rotatory paid Internship from the date of admission. The panel taking into account the fact that the petitioner was unable to appear in the Fourth Year BDS examination on account of her poor financial condition and in the peculiar facts of the case, the panel directed the respondent university to permit the petitioner to appear in the ensuing examination which is scheduled to be held in the month of January, 2025, as a one-time measure. The panel, moreover, clarified that the order is passed in peculiar facts of the case and shall not be treated as a precedent. HC to hear bizman plea against mafia The Telangana High Court will hear a writ plea by a businessman seeking police protection against alleged interference by a local mafia gang in his property and business activities. Justice B. Vijaysen Reddy was dealing with a plea filed by Gaffar Khan and another. The petitioners alleged that certain individuals, led by Maqsood Ali and others, have been trespassing into their property, causing disturbances and disrupting their business operations. Despite submitting a representation to the Station House Officer (SHO) of Jagathgirigutta police station on August 27, no action was taken, prompting them to approach the court. During the hearing, the judge questioned whether the petitioners had civil remedies available to them. The petitioners, citing the need for immediate relief, insisted that their representation for police protection be addressed promptly, emphasising the urgency due to the daily interference. However, the assistant government pleader sought time for reply. School plea on GHMC sewage diversion Justice T. Vinod Kumar of the Telangana High Court entertained a writ plea alleging illegal diversion of the sewage and drain water from neighbouring colonies into the private property of a school by GHMC. It was contended that such diversion turned the area into a breeding ground for mosquitoes, causing inconvenience to students and staff. The judge was dealing with a writ petition filed by the Ahmed Memorial Education Society, alleging that the special deputy collector, L&A, and other authorities violated legal procedures by allowing sewage to flow into their land without completing the construction of box drains or compensating for the affected portion of the property. The dispute involves the lands of the petitioner where sewage stagnation has reportedly created severe health and environmental issues. The petitioner argued that the stagnation has resulted in a foul odour, a breeding ground for mosquitoes, and significant inconvenience for students, staff, and administration, affecting their ability to move freely on the property. The petitioner further contended that these actions violate principles of natural justice and the right to fair compensation for the affected land. The petitioner prayed to halt the flow of sewage into the property and a direction to the authorities to complete the construction of box drains to prevent further inconvenience and provide monetary compensation for the affected land. The petitioner further requested damages for the health hazards and disruptions caused by the sewage stagnation. The judge directed the state to file their response within two weeks. TSMDC told to check plea on sand Justice Moushumi Bhattacharya of the Telangana High Court directed Telangana State Mineral Development Corporation Ltd (TSMDC) and District Level Sand Committee, Mulugu (DLSC) to consider an application for extension of time for de-casting of sand from the petitioner's land at Mangapeta village. The judge was dealing with a plea filed by Kandagatla Veeralaxmi. It is the case of the petitioner that district collector granted permission to the petitioner for de-casting of sand from her land in June 2022. However, TSMDC failed to take steps to enter into an agreement with the assistant director of Mines and Geology for the proposed de-casting of sand as contemplated under Rule 7(4)(d) of Telangana State Sand Mining Rules, 2015. The judge pointed out that the petitioner has not taken any steps after expiry of the permission in December 2022 and has filed the writ petition after 2 years in December 2024. The court also noticed that there is no prayer in the writ petition against the TSMDC and the only prayer sought for is against the DLSC, which has already taken the required steps under the 2015 Rules. Justice Moushumi Bhattacharya, however, modified the relief and directed DLSC and TSMDC to consider the application made by the petitioner and take steps in accordance with law as provided under The Telangana State Sand Mining Rules, 2015 within a period of 6 weeks.

Cops double efforts to resolve 3,600 long-pending cases in Nizamabad

Victims live in fear as delay emboldens criminals

Urban MLA calls on CM for funds for Nizamabad

Gupta sought 60 crore from TUFIDC, 5 crore as development funds, and a special allocation of 100 crore

Health Minister Damodar to Open PHC in Renjal

Nizamabad: Health minister C. Damodar Rajanarsimha and state adviser Mohammad Ali Shabbir will visit Nizamabad district on December 22. They will arrive by helicopter at the integrated district offices complex to inaugurate a primary health centre in Renjal and the MCH building in Nizamabad. Their agenda includes inspecting the Government General Hospital (GGH) and conducting a review meeting for Nizamabad and Kamareddy districts. Ahead of the visit, district collector Rajiv Gandhi Hanumanthu inspected GGH on Saturday to oversee arrangements, accompanied by GGH superintendent Prathima and other officials.

Nizamabad civic body starts drive to collect property tax dues

Nizamabad: The Nizamabad Municipal Corporation has launched a special drive to collect property tax dues for the 2024-25 financial year, reminding residents that overdue payments will incur a 2 per cent penalty. Officials emphasised that June 30 and December 31 are the biannual deadlines, urging taxpayers to meet these cutoffs to avoid additional charges. Property tax notices were previously issued, and now revenue officials are visiting taxpayers, encouraging online payments. Municipal commissioner Dileep Kumar convened a meeting with officials to streamline the collection process and instructed division-wise interaction programmes to clarify payment procedures. According to the Telangana Municipal Act, property taxes can be paid in two installments. If the first installment due by June 30 is missed, a 2 per cent penalty applies from July 1, while late payments after December 31 are penalised similarly from January 1 onward. Commissioner Kumar appealed to the public to settle their dues promptly, stressing that timely tax payments would contribute to the development of Nizamabad and that defaulters risk facing penalties under the Municipal Act.

Telangana: Inter-state chain snatching gang held, arms seized

The arrests were made during a vehicle check on Friday night. The gang was found to have committed multiple chain-snatching offences within the Nizamabad Police Commissionerate limits

Police officers punished for coming late to meeting

Nizamabad: Tardiness at a recent meeting convened by Nizamabad police commissioner Ch. Sindhu Sharma resulted in an unexpected punishment for several Station House Officers (SHOs). The in-charge commissioner directed the latecomers to complete five rounds of running on the police parade grounds as a disciplinary measure. In the presence of armed reserve police officers, six SHOs performed the rounds. However, only younger officers were subjected to the punishment, while senior officers were spared. Out of the 33 SHOs in the district, six faced the reprimand. A trainee IPS officer also attended the meeting. Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, Ch. Sindhu Sharma emphasised the importance of discipline in the police force. Discipline is mandatory for police officers. We will not tolerate indiscipline among uniformed forces, she stated.