Odisha: ED searches Niranjans properties

BHUBANESWAR: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday carried out searches at the property linked to former Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) president Niranjan Patnaik. Sources in the central agency confirmed the raids but remained tight-lipped about the matter. Simultaneous searches were carried out in at least five locations across the state linked to Niranjan Patnaik. More details will be shared in the coming days, said ED sources. Though ED is yet to release a statement officially, sources said the investigation could be linked to the mining business in which the senior Congressmans kin have interests. Asked about the searches, Niranjan told the newspaper that he is involved in politics and is not a businessman. I am a political person and not a businessman. I have nothing to do with business. ED officers had also not served any notice to me. Please ask them, what they found during the searches, he said. Sources said ED officers questioned some of Niranjans family members for over 30 minutes earlier in the day. The development comes two days after ED conducted searches across four locations in Odisha and Delhi linked to opposition chief whip Pramila Malliks late brother Khirod Mallik over the alleged Rs 231 crore bank fraud case. In a statement issued on Friday, the central agency said during the searches, 505 suspected benami accounts of different individuals and SHGs were traced. ED says Khirod took deposits Over Rs 72 lakh in cash was frozen from these accounts and shares worth Rs 10 lakh were seized along with other incriminating documents like sale deeds, chequebooks and digital devices. Further investigation is underway, said the ED. ED said its investigation revealed NGO, Bharat Integrated Social Welfare Agency (BISWA) was run by Khirod under the guise of financing self-help groups and joint liability firms. However, Khirod allegedly misutilised the funds and started accepting deposits from the public which was not allowed as per the RBI guidelines. The NGO was also involved in loan frauds amounting to over Rs 200 crore, read the statement.

Hosp walls turned into canvases of healing

Four Visakhapatnam students win U.S. fellowship for restoring coastal ecosystem with seagrass

Seagrasses play a vital role in combating climate change by absorbing more carbon dioxide than terrestrial plants, say the students

NIRF initiative to improve teaching quality in AP medical colleges

Vijayawada: AP health department has directed government medical colleges in the state to participate in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) to improve the quality of teaching in AP and compete with other leading medical colleges in the country. This is part of the 12 initiatives taken up by the health department in the last six months to improve medical care in the state. In this regard, the health department led by health minister Satya Kumar Yadav submitted a report of its performance during the last six months to Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Friday. According to the report, the health department took up universal cancer screening and covered 33,58,347 persons. Of them, 29,469 women are suspected of having cancer and have been sent for further examination and treatment. Under Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK), meant to screen 70 lakh students for various diseases and deformities, 488 surgeries have been performed and other interventions taken up. Action has been initiated to set up three city diagnostic centres at Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam and Tirupati. The department has taken up an e-ICU initiative for the benefit of people living in remote and tribal areas, while Gundeku Bharosa (STEMI) programme has been extended all over the state involving 22 big hospitals to provide critical heart care in the golden hour. Budget allocation has been enhanced to over 84 crore for AYUSH department, while there is a plan to set up chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear medical management centre at the Visakha Institute of Medical Sciences. Ten critical care blocks with 75 beds each have been taken up in the state at a cost of 230 crore. A Metropolitan Surveillance Unit is being set up at an expenditure of 20 crore at the Guntur Government Hospital. Jan Aushadhi outlets will be set up at 25 teaching and district hospitals in the first phase.

Kakinada Collector Proposes Rs. 200 Crore Plan for Sea Erosion

Kakinada: Kakinada district collector S. Shan Mohan has sent proposals to the state government for finding a permanent solution to the sea erosion problem in U. Kothapalli mandal at a cost of Rs.200 crores. It involves construction of a retaining wall as in the state of Kerala. Shan Mohan told Deccan Chronicle that there is provision for the central government to sanction funds to check coastal erosion. He pointed out that nearly five villages are facing sea erosion in U. Kothapalli mandal. The collector said detailed project reports have been prepared for completing modernisation of Yeleru reservoir, and renovation and reconstruction of dilapidated and collapsed bridges. Modernisation of Yeleru reservoir will involve an expenditure of 800 crores. He said a new bridge will be constructed connecting Machilipatnam Port to Kakinada Port via Yetimoga at a cost of 235 crores. Once the project is completed, traffic snarls in Kakinada city can be reduced. Referring to the collapsed bridge at Appannapalem between Jaggampet and Prathipadu, Shan Mohan said the bridge will be reconstructed at a cost of 13 crore. Another bridge will be built at Surampalem n Gollaprolu mandal involving 4 crores. Asked about the Kakinada Special Economic Zone (KSEZ) issue raised by former finance minister and Telugu Desam politburo member Yanamala Ramakrishnudu, the collector said livelihood issues of fishermen will be considered by holding discussions with managements of companies established in the KSEZ.

MoUs worth 1.8L cr signed as two-day biz summit concludes

BJP gears up to celebrate Vajpayee birth centenary

CM falls ill, cancels all engagements

Maruti Suzuki signs MoA with Bihar Govt Transport Dept

5 driving test tracks to be automated at Bhagalpur, Darbhanga, Gaya, Purnia and Saran 2 driving test tracks automated by Maruti Suzuki at Aurangabad and Patna are already operational Automated Driving Test Tracks (ADTTs) for Two-wheeler (TW) and Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) driving license testing MSIL to increase the number of Automated Driving Test Tracks to 44 across the country, from the current 27 New Delhi : Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) signed the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Transport Department, Government of Bihar to automate driving license test tracks at Bhagalpur, Darbhanga, Gaya, Purnia and Saran. The MoA was signed in the presence of Smt. Sheela Kumari, Honble Transport Minister of Bihar and Shri Sanjay Kumar Agarwal (IAS), Secretary, Transport Department, Government of Bihar. The MoA was signed by Shri Navin Kumar (IAS), State Transport Commissioner, Government of Bihar and Shri Tarun Agarwal, Senior Vice President, Corporate Social Responsibility, Maruti Suzuki. With zero human intervention, the Automated Driving Test Tracks are aimed to make license testing more comprehensive, efficient, and transparent. The rigorous and standardized evaluation process is designed to assess candidates according to the Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR). Test results are also automatically generated. Applauding Maruti Suzuki on its road safety efforts, Smt. Sheela Kumari, Honble Transport Minister of Bihar said, I applaud Maruti Suzuki, Indias leading passenger vehicle manufacturer, for their exemplary commitment to road safety through nationwide programs. One of their innovative initiatives, the Automated Driving Test Tracks, ensures that only skilled drivers get a driving license, making our roads safer for everyone. We successfully automated the driving test tracks in Aurangabad and Patna with them and have seen drivers coming better prepared for the license testing. We are glad to partner with Maruti Suzuki once again to develop five more Automated Driving Test Tracks in Bihar. This collaboration will significantly contribute toward reducing road accidents and promoting responsible driving practices in our state of Bihar. Mr. Rahul Bharti, Executive Officer, Corporate Affairs, Maruti Suzuki India Limited said, Maruti Suzukis association with the Bihar government goes back to 2018 when we set up the states first Institute of Driving and Traffic Research (IDTR) to offer driver training in Aurangabad. Since then, we have inaugurated ADTTs at Aurangabad in 2020 and Patna in 2021. We thank the Government of Bihar for further entrusting us with this road safety project. Maruti Suzuki has been steadfast in its commitment to the 5 pillars of road safety - engineering, education, evaluation, enforcement, and emergency care. Automated driving license testing is a vital component of the evaluation process. Equipped with high-definition cameras and an integrated IT system, ADTTs guarantee a comprehensive, efficient, and transparent testing process ensuring that only skilled drivers are awarded licenses. Mr. Bharti added, According to data shared by the Union Road Transport Ministry, 15.3 lakh lives were lost in road accidents in the 10 years between 2014-2023 in India. Road death rate in the country is around 250 per 10,000 km as opposed to 119 in China, 57 in the USA, and 11 in Australia. An important aspect of road safety is drivers skill and knowledge of traffic rules. Automated Driving Test Tracks will ensure that license seekers are better prepared and only skilled drivers are awarded a driving license. This will bring a positive transformation that will go a long way to reduce road accidents caused by human error. Maruti Suzuki Automated Driving Test Tracks across India Over the past years, Maruti Suzuki has systematically automated 27 driving test tracks (across Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar, and Haryana). The Company is in the process of setting up 12 additional ADTTs in Uttar Pradesh. With the addition of these 5 test tracks in Bihar, the Company will complete automation of 44 driving test tracks across the country.

EOU noose around exam racketeers

Organic farming need of hour: Buxar DM

SCR to Operate 16 Special Trains for Kumbh Mela Pilgrims

Hyderabad: The South Central Railway (SCR) announced that it would operate 16 special services to the Kumbh Mela from various stations in the zone such as Kacheguda, Guntur and Moula Ali to Azamgarhm Patna and Gaya. From the city, Train 07707 will leave Moula Ali at 11.55 pm and arrive in Azamgarh at 5.15 pm the next day. Train 07725 will leave Kacheguda at 4.45 pm and reaching Patna by 10.30 am the following day. SCR said the special trains will run on specific dates from January 18 to January 27.

Focus now on implementation of MoUs: Minister

Cong seeks Shahs apology over remarks on Ambedkar

Single-window clearance system in state stands out

K Lakshmi Cement to set up plant in Madhubani

Continuous rain soaks Visakhapatnam

GVMC Commissioner directs officials to focus on low-lying and hillock areas and shift residents to rehabilitation centre if there is a need

Haldiram Snack to set up manufacturing plant in Bihta

Ashoka Buildcon to invest Rs 9k crore in green hydrogen plant

Govt to address specific needs of investors: Chief secy

Shree Cement to invest Rs 1,100cr to set up cement plant, solar power project

Pawan Kalyan pledges bimonthly tribal area inspections

Visakhapatnam: Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has announced his commitment to make regular bimonthly visits to tribal areas, to speed up the progress of community development works there. Expressing deep disgust over lack of any development in such areas, he decided to spend two to three days there every two months, assessing the local conditions and issuing advisories to officials. The deputy CM unveiled a three-phase road construction plan for tribal regions and criticised the previous YSRC governments spending priorities, at a foundation ceremony in Saluru constituency on Friday. Pawan Kalyan referred to the Rushikonda palace project, saying it cost the exchequer a whopping `500 crore, and cited this as an example of misplaced investment. Such funds could have been better utilised for development of the backward districts, he said. PK questioned the disappearance of `690 crore that had been allocated for backward villages under the state Bifurcation Act. The deputy CM recalled witnessing several issues in tribal areas during his 2017 Praja Porata Yatra. He said roads are a lifeline for development. Tribal areas have been neglected for too long. I climbed hills to understand your hardships firsthand and will work tirelessly to address them. I am not saying that I will perform miracles in a jiffy. Give me a year. I will show change in the tribal areas, he said. In an emotional address, the minister assured the tribal community of his unwavering dedication. I love you as much as I love my own children. You tested me in 2019. I am here, standing strong for you, and I will not rest until we bring meaningful change to your lives. The deputy CM said there was swift approval of the road projects in the agency areas from chief minister Chandrababu Naidu.

Culinary delight, cultural flair mark IHM-Hajipurs pre-Christmas celebration

Andhra Govt. Increases Job Quota for Sports Persons From 2 to 3%

Visakhapatnam: Andhra Pradesh government has unveiled a comprehensive sports policy aimed at transforming the state into a hub for sports and nurturing talent at all levels. State sports minister Mandipalli Ramprasad Reddy announced the policy while inaugurating a Rs 6 crore multi-purpose indoor hall at the Vizzy Stadium in Vizianagaram district on Friday. Ramprasad Reddy highlighted the need to revitalise the sports sector in Andhra Pradesh which, he said, had weakened over the past five years. He announced plans to increase job reservations for sportspersons from 2 per cent to 3 per cent and incentives for athletes who excel in national and international competitions. Dwelling on preparations for hosting the National Games in Amaravati in 2027, the minister said sports facilities will be created in every constituency. He underlined the government's commitment to integrating education with sports, which play a crucial role in the development of youth. He revealed plans to establish a sports school in Vizianagaram. Speaking on the occasion, MLA Aditi Gajapathi Raju expressed concern over the neglect of Vizzy Stadium, which had originally been inaugurated by former chief minister N.T. Rama Rao in 1983. She said her father Ashok Gajapathi Raju had been worried about the incomplete indoor hall becoming a site for anti-social activities. She expressed happiness that the current coalition government has completed its construction.

CM mourns Chautala

YSRC Demands Public Apology From CM, Pawan Over Ippatam Lands

Vijayawada: YSR Congress has demanded a public apology from Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan for spreading misinformation regarding Ippatam lands and drug-laden containers at Visakhapatnam Port. Speaking to media, former AP Trade Promotion Corporation chairman Kanumuri Ravichandra Reddy said the Supreme Court has dismissed the case over Ippatam lands and imposed a fine on petitioners, while CBI, after a thorough investigation, has denied that drugs had been found in the container at the Vizag port. Ravichandra Reddy underlined that Pawan Kalyan had falsely gone to town claiming that farmers houses had been demolished in Ippatam village during widening of roads. He pointed out that Supreme Court recently dismissed the farmers claims as baseless and imposed a penalty of Rs 25,000 on each petitioner. Likewise, the YSRC leader said Chandrababu Naidu had alleged that a drug-laden container had arrived in Visakhapatnam. He underlined that a thorough CBI investigation had found no evidence of drugs in the case. Condemning both Naidu and Pawan Kalyan for making defamatory statements, Reddy accused them of tarnishing APs image and maligning YSRC leaders, including MP Vijayasai Reddy, for political gains.

Bihar seeks generous budget provisions

Ghost Nets Threaten Olive Ridley Turtle Arrivals Along Vizag Coast

Visakhapatnam: A dead Olive Ridley sea turtle on Mukkam beach in Bhogapuram mandal has highlighted the growing concern among local fishermen and environmentalists about the safety of these turtles. Fisherman Pangi Amar says tens of Olive Ridley turtles have died till now this month. He and his fellow fishermen say sea turtles are dying due to untreated pharmaceutical waste and pollutants from various industries. When Deccan Chronicle contacted Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board chief engineer, P.V. Mukunda Rao, he stated, We are constantly checking whether the waste coming from industries is being treated and discharged into the sea. We are holding discussions with NGOs and the National Institute of Oceanography. We have learnt that Olive Ridley sea turtles are dying due to hits by mechanised boats and getting trapped in ghost nets. District forest officer S. Venkateswara acknowledged the issue stating, Problems are indeed being caused by mechanised boats and ghost nets. However, since these are directly related to fishermen's livelihood, we cannot take direct action. That is why we are organising large-scale awareness campaigns. We are making great efforts to increase the number of Olive Ridley hatcheries all along the seashore. However, environmentalists are dissatisfied. They say the dead Olive Ridley washing up ashore on Mukkam Beach indicates more action is necessary. They are advocating the elimination of fishing net subsidies, which would help reduce the number of ghost fishing nets. Otherwise, fishermen would not abandon their entangled nets in the ocean, making them ghost nets. These pose a grave threat to biodiversity. Fishermen are often unwilling to retrieve their entangled nets from the sea due to the associated costs. Environmentalists underscore the critical need for comprehensive strategies to safeguard Olive Ridley sea turtles to ensure the long-term sustainability of their population.

Visakhapatnam Port Authoritys sports meet begins

Transport Minister launches APSRTC month-long cargo door delivery programme in Visakhapatnam

The APSRTC is transporting cargo from one place to any other place in the State within 24 hours, he says

Mehdipatnam-Tolichowki stretch works worsen traffic woes in Hyderabad

Hyderabad: Spanning over three kilometres, the Mehdipatnam-Tolichowki-Shaikpet stretch is plagued by slow-moving civic projects, dug-up roads, potholes, and dust causing frustration for thousands of daily commuters facing relentless traffic congestion Speaking to Siasat.com, an official from Hyderabad traffic police stated, The underground wiring project has been going on for a month now. It is expected 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 .

Visakhapatnam range DIG cautions ASR district police on possible infiltration of Maoists from Chhattisgarh and Telangana

Gopinath Jatti directs them to gather advance intelligence to prevent any untoward incidents, enhance the police information system to strengthen internal communication and raise public awareness regarding Maoist threats and preventive measures

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

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

Establish geopark in Visakhapatnam, INTACH urges the Union and State governments

The city has the potential to join the prestigious UNESCO Global Geoparks Network

Man kills disabled son over suspicions of wifes fidelity

Vikramshila Central Univ project gains momentum

Seminar on property rights held at CUSB

Investment proposals worth Rs 1.8 lakh crore secured from 'Bihar Business Connect 2024' summit

PATNA: The two-day Bihar Business Connect Investors Summit, which concluded on Friday, attracted investments worth Rs 1.8 lakh crore in various sectors, Bihar Industries and Tourism minister Nitish Mishra said. The minister said that the top officials of companies signed memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with the state government after completion of two-day deliberations. Bihar has received investment proposals worth Rs 1.8 lakh crore, which is three times more than the Rs 53,000 crore last year, he told the media. Adani Group has promised to invest Rs 20,000 crore to establish an ultra-supercritical thermal power plant and expand its footprint in cement production, warehouses and logistics. Similarly, NHPC has planned to invest Rs 5,500 crore in renewable energy projects in the state. Likewise SLMG Beverages has signed MoU to invest Rs 3,000 crore for food processing, Shree Cement will invest Rs 800 crore for general manufacturing and Haldiram Snacks Pvt Ltd has plans to invest Rs 300 crore for the food processing sector. The minister said that more than 300 companies have shown interest in making investments in Bihar. The government has already provided them, letters of offer to the companies, which were willing to invest in the state. Bihar Industries Department Secretary Banadana Preyashi told the media that investment proposals worth Rs 2,900 have been received in the field of tourism. Twenty-four units have signed MoUs for making investments worth Rs 1,300 crore in the Textile sector. Similarly, investment proposals worth Rs 665 crore have been received for plastic rubber units. More than 35 investment proposals worth over Rs 3,360 crore have come from the companies willing to invest in the health sector, she revealed. In response to a query, the industries department secretary said that the impact of the MOUs signed during the two-day investors summit will be visible after a year. The maximum investment proposals have been received in the renewable energy sector, Preyashi said. Altogether 17 companies have submitted their proposals to invest Rs 90,000 crore in the renewable energy sector. Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar, however, skipped the investors summit due to his ill-health. Nitish's programmes were cancelled after he fell sick

Why Bihars per capita income lowest despite you being CM for 20 years: Tejashwi asks Nitish Kumar

Why Bihars per capita income lowest despite you being CM for 20 years: Tejashwi asks Nitish Kumar Patna: Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav slammed Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Friday asking him why the per capita income of the state was lowest in the country despite his government in the state for the [] The post Why Bihars per capita income lowest despite you being CM for 20 years: Tejashwi asks Nitish Kumar appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

JK Lakshmi Cement to invest Rs 500 cr in Bihar, to set up plant at Madhubani

PATNA, Dec 20:JK Lakshmi Cement, part of the JK Organisation, will invest Rs 500 crore in Bihar to set up a manufacturing plant at Madhubani district, said its President and Director Arun Shukla on Friday. The Bharat Hari Singhania family-promoted Rs 6,000 crore firm has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the state government for its proposed manufacturing unit. We are setting up a cement plant at Madhubani district in Bihar with an investment of Rs 500 crore, [] The post JK Lakshmi Cement to invest Rs 500 cr in Bihar, to set up plant at Madhubani appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Visakha Dairy Chairman Adari Anand Kumar and Directors Resign from YSRCP

Visakhapatnam: Visakha Dairy Chairman Adari Anand Kumar along with several directors has resigned from the YSRCP. Anand submitted his resignation letter to YSRCP President YS Jagan. He has been distancing himself from party activities in recent days. Anand stepped down from both the primary membership and all positions within the YSRCP. The directors who resigned alongside Anand include Saragadam Varaha Venkata Shankar Rao, Pilla Rama Kumari, Seeramreddy Suryanarayana, Kolla Katamayya, Dadi Pawan Kumar, Aarangi Ramana Babu, Chitikela Rajakumari, Reddy Ramakrishna, Sundarapu Eeshwar, and Paradeshi Gangadhar.

BPSC 70th CCE re-exam on January 4 for Patna exam centre, check official notice here

The BPSC 70th CCE re-exam for candidates from the Bapu Examination Complex, Patna, will be held on January 4, 2025, after the December 13, 2024, exam was canceled due to alleged paper leaks. Approximately 4.80 lakh candidates registered. Details of the re-exam program will be available on the BPSC's official website.

Minister Ramprasad Reddy announces free bus service for women soon

Visakhapatnam: Minister Mandipalli Ramprasad Reddy has declared that a free bus service for women will be introduced shortly. He emphasised that APSRTC is committed to serving the public efficiently. On Friday, Reddy inaugurated the APSRTC door delivery service at Dwarka Bus Station.

Bhubaneswar: ED raids residence of former OPCC president Niranjan Patnaik

Bhubaneswar: Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials conducted a raid on the residence of former Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) president Niranjan Patnaik in Bhubaneswar, a source said Friday. The source added that the raid is underway at Patnaiks residence in the Nayapalli area of Bhubaneswar. The reason behind the central agencys action remains unclear as no []

IIT study identifies Visakhapatnam, Guntur, Kurnool as high-risk drought zones - Yo Vizag

IIT study identifies Visakhapatnam, Guntur, Kurnool as high-risk drought zones Yo Vizag

IMD forecast heavy rainfall for North Coastal Andhra

VISAKHAPATNAM: Several parts of the State have been experiencing rainfall over the past two days due to a low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal. The showers have led to a drop in temperatures across the State. According to real-time data from the Andhra Pradesh State Development Planning Society (APSDPS), Gara in Srikakulam district recorded the highest rainfall on Thursday at 15 mm. Vidavalur in Nellore received 14.5 mm, while Madhurawada in Visakhapatnam recorded 14 mm. Visakhapatnam Cyclone Warning Centre In-Charge Director, KVS Srinivas, stated, The low pressure continues over the west-central Bay of Bengal. As a result, widespread rainfall is expected at isolated places across Coastal Andhra Pradesh over the next 48 hours, with indications of rain in Rayalaseema as well. Considering the prevailing sea conditions, a third-level danger warning has been issued at Andhra Pradesh coastal ports. The chances of the deep depression intensifying into a cyclone are minimal. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast heavy rainfall at isolated places in Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, Anakapalle, and Kakinada districts of North Coastal Andhra Pradesh on Friday. Light to moderate rain or thundershowers are likely at a few places in Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam, with isolated occurrences in Rayalaseema. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are expected in some areas of North Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam. Squally winds of 40-50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph, may prevail along Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam. Local Cautionary Signal Number Three (LC-III) has been hoisted at ports including Kalingapatnam, Bheemunipatnam, Visakhapatnam, Gangavaram, Kakinada, and Machilipatnam. Squally weather with wind speeds of 35-45 kmph, gusting up to 55 kmph, is likely off the Odisha coast and parts of the west-central and northwest Bay of Bengal. Fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea in these areas until conditions improve.

Christmas treats from Visakhapatnams bakers and hotels

From the classic Italian panettone, the quintessential plum cake to DIY cookie kits, heres a list of delectable Christmas treats from bakers and hotels in Visakhapatnam

How the Anglo Indian community of Visakhapatnam celebrates Christmas

From rose cookies to soulful carol sessions, Christmas is a joyful celebration of festive treats and community bonding for the All India Anglo Indian Association, Visakhapatnam chapter

Bihar to develop more industrial areas, will acquire 10,000 acre of land in next fiscal: Dy CM Samrat Choudhary

Patna, Dec 19: The Bihar government acquired 8,000 acre of land in the current financial year for developing industrial areas and would obtain another 10,000 acre next fiscal to attract investment in the state, Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary said on Thursday. Addressing the inaugural session of the two-day Bihar Business Connect 2024, he said []

Speaker Ayyanna Patrudu Says AP has 3.2 lakh Fake Pension Beneficiaries

Visakhapatnam: Assembly Speaker Chintakayala Ayyanna Patrudu has cited a recent survey to say that around 320,000 ineligible persons are receiving welfare pensions in the state through fabricated documents. He shared this information during the opening of a new rice purchasing centre in Nathavaram mandal, Anakapalle district on Thursday. Addressing the gathering, Ayyanna Patrudu referred to the issue of fraudulent pension claims, highlighting how fake age certificates and other wrong information were being used to access pensions unlawfully. Each fake beneficiary receives Rs.4,000 per month. This means a loss of Rs.120 crore to the government every month. This comes to Rs.1,440 crore annually, Over a period of five years, the total loss could reach Rs.7,200 crore, he said. The Speaker noted that these funds could have been better used for infrastructure projects such as road construction or building three reservoirs the size of the Thandava reservoir. Ayyanna Patrudu said he raised the issue with chief minister Chandrababu Naidu.

Telangana excise police yet to lay hands on ganja queen Neetu Bai

Hyderabad : With over 20 NDPS cases against her, a daily average earnings of around Rs 2.60 lakh, owner of immovable asserts worth crores of rupees, gangster Neetu Bai from Dhoolpet tops the wanted list of TG excise police. Special teams from TG-STF have spread a dragnet to nab Neetu Bai alias Ganja Neetu alias Ganja Bai alias Ganja Kalavati, a close relative of recently arrested woman don Angoori Bai. Neetu Bai, 45, entered ganja trading as her family business. She married Munnu Singh and has two sons. Neetu has over a dozen note counting machines in her house. She is a bulk ganja importer and supplier, not only in the twin city but in the entire state, police said. Neetu, referred to as Kalavati in Visakhapatnam, Odisha, Jharkhand, MP, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh and UP, is said to be having a strong nexus with ganja cultivators from these states. She has changed her modus operandi after police started Operation Dhoolpet. Our special teams will get her very soon, he said. Neetu Bai, having over 300 peddlers and suppliers working under her, is said to have the strongest network in twin city. She also has a strong network of consumers who want doorstep delivery, mostly from IT fields, police said, adding Neetu Bai has assets worth crores of rupees in posh localities in the twin city. She was arrested by TGANB and Golconda police in August 2023 Police found that she had a bank balance of over Rs 180 crore and immovable properties of over Rs 4.80 crore that were seized by the police. She did not give up her illegal business after her release till March this year when TGANB again arrested her with 13 customers and contraband worth over Rs 23 lakh. She was released in 2022. We have installed CCTV cameras in identified areas, developed a strong network after forming an SIT. She is under constant surveillance, a senior excise officer told Deccan Chronicle . During questioning, Angoori Bai and others disclosed the name of Neetu who used to stay in Dhoolpet and operates both in Dhoolpet and Nanakramguda. The state excise department arrested Anguribai and 150 of her workers during Operation Dhoolpet`. During investigation, we found that Nitu Bais full name is Kalavati Nitu Bai, 45, popularly known as Ganga Neetu Bai who owns a house in Lodhabasti Nanakramguda.

Rain Lashes North Andhra As Low Pressure Intensifies

Chances of upper air circulation to descend down, as low-pressure activity is high. Chances of upper air circulation to descend down, as low-pressure activity is high. Visakhapatnam: Many parts of the north Andhra region received heavy rainfall as the well-marked low-pressure area intensified and lay over the southeast Bay of Bengal and the southwest adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal on Thursday. The associated upper cyclonic circulation extended up to 5.8km above mean sea level. The system is likely to move nearly north-west towards the north Tamil Nadu and south Andhra Pradesh coast on Friday. It is likely to move northward along the AP coast in the subsequent 24 hours, stated IMD Amaravati in its report. Under the system, heavy rain is likely at isolated places over the north coastal AP and Yanam on Friday. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are likely at isolated places over the same area. Squally winds of 40 to 50kmph, gusting up to 60kmph, are likely over the north and south coastal AP and Yanam. Reports said the daylong drizzle disrupted normal life during the day on Thursday. Hawkers were off the road and office-goers had a tough time reaching their homes. Vizianagaram district received the maximum rain since Wednesday. Bondapalle received the highest of 2.5cm, Merakamudidam 1.6cm, Vizianagaram town 1.5cm, Therlam 1.4cm, Srungavarapukota 1.2cm, Mentada 1.1cm, Anakapalle 1.1cm, Denkada 1.2cm and Koyyalagudem (Eluru district) 1.2cm.

CM Naidu to be chief guest for Navy Day on January 4

Visakhapatnam : Visakhapatnam collector M.N. Harindranath on Thursday held a review meeting with senior officials, including those of the Indian Navy, in connection with the Navy Day scheduled on January 4. The collector said Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu will participate in this event as the chief guest. Suggesting a green room near the podium, he asked police and other officials to ensure foolproof security arrangements for the CM. Harindranath wanted barricades at strategic places to prevent inconvenience to the public. LED screens will be placed on the Beach Road and different places in the city for the public to view the event. Navy officials present at the meeting said that an OP demo will be held on the evening of January 4 at the R.K. Beach. There will also be a laser show, display by drones, fighter jets flying overhead and ships manoeuvring in the sea. There will be full rehearsals on January 2. GVMC commissioner P. Sampath Kumar, VMRDA commissioner K.S. Vishwanathan, DCP Ajitha, naval commanders Y.K. Kishore and Manoj Kumar, lieutenant commanders Sanjib Sharan and Uzair Khusro, and DRO BH. Bhavani Shankar participated in the meeting.

BPSC to hold retest on Jan 4

NHPC may invest Rs5,500cr in renewable energy sector

MSMEs, startups exhorted to dream big

Cabinet OKs new rules for errant contractual teachers

Bihar receives IT investment proposals worth Rs4,000 crore

Rs 2,200 crore-worth road projects planned to connect 1,500 hamlets in ASR district

Visakhapatnam: ASR district administration has called tenders for the massive exercise of laying roads to connect 1,500 hamlets, which have no links with the mainstream areas in the district. The value of the total works is 2,200 crore. Tenders have also been called for relaying of the road from G.K. Veedhi to Sileru, which connects AP to Odisha. This road got damaged in the cyclone during July this year. The project will cost around 36 crore. State government has already sanctioned 18 crore for the works. During the recent collectors conference, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has taken a serious view of tribal people using dolis to shift their infirm and ill to hospitals. The CM said in future, such a thing should not happen, ASR district collector A.S. Dinesh Kumar told this correspondent on Thursday. The collector said Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan also expressed his concern over the matter. He is expected to visit the agency area on Saturday to assess road connectivity to interior areas, he disclosed. When asked about the source of funds, Dinesh Kumar said 60 per cent of the amount will be sourced through the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan. The remaining expenditure will be borne by the state government. The collector said most of the roads damaged by frequent rains due to cyclones and low pressure systems have been repaired at a cost of 6 crore. Sources in the agency areas said bad roads in the agency areas are receiving negative publicity, as inconvenienced tourists, whose numbers have increased, have started highlighting the matter. Police have identified 96 black spots in the ASR district, where road widening is required, along with speed breakers. A senior police official said the highest number of 15 black spots are under G. Madugula police station, eight each under Koyyuru and Rampachodavaram, seven under Araku Valley and five each under Munchingput, Peda Bayulu, Dumbrigua, Anantagiri and Annavaram police stations.

6,659 playgrounds to be developed in 5,671 panchayats across Bihar

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Century-old churches gearing up for Christmas festivities

Visakhapatnam: The coastal city prominently dotted with century-old churches is getting set for the colourful Christmas celebrations. The churches throughout the city have begun joyous celebrations in their spiritually charged and tastefully adorned settings. The air is filled with the enticing aromas of traditional treats. The season sees the precincts of several churches colourfully illuminated for an added effect. The main congregations will be at the iconic St. Pauls Church, Ross Hill Church, St. Johns Church, and St. Anthony's Church. A midnight mass marks the culmination of the celebrations. The church services for the season feature heart-warming carols, candlelight processions, and inspiring sermons, all of these creating a memorable experience. Overall, the combination of spiritual devotion and festive cheer makes Christmas here a delightful occasion for many to share the joys of the season. The St. Pauls Church, located near Waltair Club and Governors House, is a notable landmark with a historical significance. Known for its vibrant Christmas festivities, the church illuminates the Waltair junction with lights and fills the air with carol songs. With a history spanning over 180 years, it provides a rich backdrop for Christmas celebrations. The Ross Hill Church, also known as Visakhapuri Mary Matha Gudi, was constructed in 1864 for Monsieur Ross, an Englishman who functioned as a local judge. Converted into a chapel in 1867, the church is perched atop a hill, offering tranquil views of the city and the port area. Its magnificent architecture attracts tourists year-round. The special mass held there during Christmas imparts a profound sense of divinity to the august gathering. Established near the old post office in 1846 with funding from the East India Company, the St. Johns Church is one of the oldest in Visakhapatnam. Sir Arthur Cotton's design features teak wood imported from Burma and stained-glass paintings from Europe. Notably, this church houses an ancient pipe organ that remains operational. The Christmas season sees considerable footfalls, making it a pivotal site for devotion and celebration. Visitors are encouraged to partake in their festive initiatives for a memorable experience. The St. Anthony's Church, situated near Jagadamba, dates back to 1852 and initially served the Tamil-speaking Catholics. The church set up an educational institution that continues to operate today. As the second-largest parish in the city, this is highly recommended for visitation during the Christmas season. This time around, these churches promise an experience filled with joy, a sense of history and community spirit. Whether ones a local or a visitor, these historic landmarks offer a delightful setting.

Married couple dies after falling into septic tank

'Eggsposed': Bihar govt school principal caught stealing from mid-day meal in viral video

PATNA: As unbelievable as it may sound, the principal of a government school in Bihars Vaishali district was caught on camera stealing eggs intended for students under the Mid-Day Meal (MDM) scheme. The incident, which took place on December 13, came to light after a video showing the principal in the act went viral on social media. Following this, the education department conducted an investigation and found the allegations to be true. In the viral video, Principal Suresh Sahni was seen taking eggs in a carry bag when the van filled with the MDM supplies arrived at the school premises. Sources in the state education department said that a show-cause notice has been issued to Principal Sahni, asking him to explain his actions within 24 hours, failing which disciplinary action will be taken against him. Vaishalis District Education Officer (DEO), Birendra Narayan, confirmed that an explanation has been sought from the principal. Further disciplinary action will be initiated after receiving a reply from the principal in question, he added. He admitted that the allegations against the principal of the school, located in the Lalganj sub-division of the district, were found to be true. The conduct of the principal has sent the wrong message to both students and their parents, he remarked. Children up to class 8 study at the middle school in Rikhar village, about 25 km from the district headquarters in Hajipur. The principals actions led local residents to block the road and stage a protest outside the school, demanding action against him. The eggs are meant for the students' nutrition, and it was not appropriate for the principal to take them away, the residents said. The principal is to retire from service in January next year.

New tourism policy is investor-friendly

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Patna churches gear up for Christmas

Youth arrested for stealing BPSC question papers in Patna

Andhra Pradesh: Two-Day Talk on Breaking the Silence Held

Vijayawada: The two-day international conference on Breaking the Silence: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Gender Exploitation and Resistance offered multifaceted insights into the issues of gender exploitation and resistance. Organised by SRM University-AP, the conference concluded on Thursday. The event attracted a diverse audience of academicians, experts, research scholars, and students from across the country and abroad. It featured talks by eminent academicians such as Prof. Anita Singh, department of English, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi; Prof. Rajinder Dudrah, Professor of Cultural Studies and Creative Industries, Birmingham City University; Prof. Geetanjali Gangoli, department of sociology, Durham University; Prof. Nalini Iyer, department of English, Seattle University; and Prof. Priyanka Tripathi, department of humanities and social sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Patna. The sessions explored themes such as gender and resistance, intersectionality, trauma, and survival. With five guest speakers, over 70 research paper presentations, and more than 140 participants, the conference provided diverse perspectives on gender exploitation and resistance. In his address, Prof. Vishnupad, Dean of the Easwari School of Liberal Arts, stated, Notwithstanding over 60 years of feminist movements and scholarship, gender asymmetry and violence remain persistent. Patriarchal structures and gender violence continue to be as rampant as they always were. The discussions at the conference addressed the numerous barriers within the system, encouraging participants to discuss, debate, and break the silence surrounding gender exploitation.

Approve Bihars river linking project fast: Choudhary to Union min

30-yr-old woman gang-raped in Patna, 1 detained

None should play politics over melee in Parliament: BJD

Bhubaneswar: Odishas main opposition party Biju Janata Dal (BJD) Thursday said there should be no politics over the alleged physical altercation between MPs of the Congress and BJP in Parliament earlier in the day. The BJD, headed by former chief minister Naveen Patnaik, said that the incident has belittled the glory of Parliament. The truth []

CBSE Conducts Surprise Inspection At 29 Schools, Finds 'Dummy' Students

Eighteen of the violating schools are in the national capital, while there are three in Varanasi, two each in Bengaluru, Patna, Ahmedabad, Bilaspur, and Chhattisgarh.

CBSE conducts surprise inspections across 5 states, discovers multiple schools violating affiliation bylaws: Check the full list here!

CBSE conducted surprise inspections at 29 schools across six regions, including Delhi, Bengaluru, and Patna, on December 18-19, 2024. The inspections revealed violations of Affiliation By-Laws, such as on-attending enrollments and non-compliance with infrastructural norms. CBSE is issuing show-cause notices to defaulting schools and considering legal action to uphold educational standards.

Two Inter-State Thieves Arrested in Suryapet

Suryapet: Suryapet Town-II police arrested two inter-state thieves on Thursday, recovering two stolen cars and 16 motorcycles from their possession. The accused were identified as Korapati Narsingh Rao (44) from Indiramma Nagar, Secunderabad, and Batha Prasad (39) from Bandaluppi, Andhra Pradesh. Presenting the suspects at a media conference, superintendent of police Sunpreet Singh revealed their modus operandi. The duo, who met through their real estate dealings, would hire cars and flee with them after intoxicating the driver. They would stop at isolated locations, offer liquor to the driver, and steal the vehicle when he was incapacitated. They also used duplicate keys to steal motorcycles. The arrests followed a complaint on December 16 from Marru Venkateshwarlu, who reported that two men stole his car during a trip from Suryapet to Vijayawada. He had offered them a ride, but they sped away with his car when he stopped to buy sweets on Vijayawadas outskirts. The duo was caught during a vehicle check in Suryapet Town-II limits on December 18. They confessed to multiple thefts across various police jurisdictions. Prasad was also found to be involved in two vehicle theft cases in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.

Future in limbo as students of PPU struggle to obtain degrees

Over 5k warrants issued, 466 accused arrested in week-long special drive

62 doctors against 232 sanctioned struggle to manage edu, healthcare at JKTMCH-Madhepura

Nitish flags off 43 luxury buses for interstate travel

NTPC plans to set up nuclear project in Bihar: CMD Gurdeep Singh

NTPC's Chairman announced plans for a nuclear power project in Bihar, boosting the company's non-fossil energy portfolio. The company has requested land from the state government and will conduct a feasibility study. NTPC also aims to develop significant renewable energy capacity, including solar and battery storage solutions, in Bihar, adding to its existing 8,850 MW capacity in the state.

CM launches mobile app to enable people report rural road conditions

Elderly woman found dead in Muzaffarpur, complaint against 2 daughters

Body of class 11 girl student found hanging in hostel bathroom

Bhawanipatna: The body of a class 11 girl student was found hanging in her hostel bathroom in Odishas Bhawanipatna town Thursday, police said. The deceased has been identified as Tofali Naik, a native of Birikote village under Thuamul Rampur block of Kalahandi district, the police said. Tofali was studying in Commerce stream and staying in []

6 iconic Korean dishes from K-dramas & where to find them in Visakhapatnam - Yo Vizag

6 iconic Korean dishes from K-dramas & where to find them in Visakhapatnam Yo Vizag

Amit Shah has gone mad, should resign, give up politics: RJD chief Lalu Prasad

PATNA: Attacking Union Home Minister Amit Shah over his remarks on Babasaheb Ambedkar, RJD chief Lalu Prasad on Thursday said he should resign from the cabinet and give up politics. Prasad, a veteran politician, was responding to queries from reporters about the controversy that erupted over Shah's speech in Rajya Sabha earlier this week. Amit Shah has gone mad. He is obviously full of hatred for our revered Babasaheb. I strongly condemn his madness, he said. When Prasad was asked whether he too was in favour of the demand for Shah's resignation, he replied in the affirmative, but with characteristic bluntness. Of course, I want Shah out of the cabinet. He should resign. Not only that, he should give up politics, said the RJD supremo, who has been a staunch opponent of the BJP for decades. Amit Shah's remarks show old mentality of BJP, says B R Ambedkar's grandson During a debate on Constitution in Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, Shah had said, Abhi ek fashion ho gaya hai - Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar. Itna naam agar bhagwan ka lete to saat janmon tak swarg mil jata (It has become a fashion to say Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar. If they had taken God's name so many times, they would have got a place in heaven). He had also said the BJP was happy that the Congress was taking Ambedkar's name but it should also speak about its real sentiments towards him, and went on to narrate incidents where the opposition party had denied the respect due to him. On Wednesday, Shah hit back at the Congress that is leading the opposition's attack on him, alleging the party twisted facts and distorted his comments. AAP protests Amit Shah's remarks on Ambedkar Kharge slams Amit Shahs remarks on Ambedkar, demands apology and his sacking by midnight

Andhra Pradesh High Court Affirms Lesbian Couple's Right to Live Together

AMARAVATI : In a big ruling, the Andhra Pradesh High Court has upheld the right of a lesbian couple to live together, affirming their autonomy in choosing their partners. The Court issued this decision while hearing a habeas corpus petition filed by Kavitha (name changed), one of the women, who claimed that her partner Lalitha (name changed) was being detained by her father against her will in Narsipatnam. The bench, consisting of Justices R Raghunandan Rao and K Maheswara Rao, directed Lalitha's parents not to interfere in their relationship, emphasizing that their daughter is an adult and has the right to make her own decisions. The couple has been living together in Vijayawada for the past year. The case came to light after Kavitha filed a missing person report, alleging that Lalitha had been taken against her will by her father. The police located Lalitha at her father's home and rescued her, but she was placed in a welfare home for 15 days, despite her repeated requests to return to her partner. Lalitha insisted that she is an adult and wished to live with Kavitha. In September, Lalitha lodged a complaint against her parents, claiming they were harassing her over her relationship with Kavitha and other personal matters. After police intervention, Lalitha reportedly returned to Vijayawada and continued her work, often meeting her partner. However, in a further escalation, Lalithas father forcibly took her away from her home again. Kavitha alleged that her partner was unlawfully detained by her father. Lalitha's father also filed a complaint with the police, accusing Kavitha and her family of abducting his daughter. During the court proceedings, Kavitha's lawyer, Jada Sravan Kumar, cited previous Supreme Court rulings, arguing that Lalitha had clearly expressed her desire to live with Kavitha and had no intention of returning to her parents. Kumar also informed the court that Lalitha wanted to withdraw the complaint she had filed against her parents if she was allowed to stay with Kavitha. The police presented Lalitha before the High Court on Tuesday, following the Courts order. The Bench also stated that no criminal charges should be filed against Lalitha's family, given that she wished to withdraw her earlier complaint.

Visakhapatnam weather: Heavy rains predicted to hit districts of AP - Yo Vizag

Visakhapatnam weather: Heavy rains predicted to hit districts of AP Yo Vizag