Vizag Petrol Bunks Licence Suspended for Code Violation
Rush witnessed at the Supplyco petrol pump in Kozhikode due to the unavailability of petrol at various petrol bunks in the city on Monday. (Photo: DC) Rush witnessed at the Supplyco petrol pump in Kozhikode due to the unavailability of petrol at various petrol bunks in the city on Monday. (Photo: DC) Visakhapatnam: The licence of Burfani Petroleum Products, owned by Reliance and located near NAD Kotha Road Junction in Visakhapatnam, has been temporarily suspended by election officials on charges of violating the election code. According to a statement issued by joint collector K. Mayur Ashok on Friday, the district flying squad raided the petrol station on April 19 after receiving complaints that the management is supplying fuel to motor vehicles using coupons issued by political parties. Upon inquiry, the staff at the petrol station revealed that they have provided petrol to 860 motorists after collecting coupons given by supporters of the contesting candidate from Visakhapatnam West assembly constituency. The joint collector called on all political parties and petrol station managements to refrain from such practices, as it amounts to violation of the model code of conduct.
Andhra Pradesh: Six Lok Sabha Seats Never Saw Female Contestant
Visakhapatnam: Since independence, no major political party in Andhra Pradesh has fielded women candidates for the Lok Sabha seats of Anantapur, Guntur, Hindupur, Machilipatnam, Nandyala and Ongole. No woman candidate ever won the polls from these constituencies. From Narasapur and Ongole, two women from lesser-known parties tried for the seats, but failed. Andhra Pradesh has 25 Lok Sabha seats. Four of these are reserved for SC (Scheduled Caste) and one for ST (Scheduled Tribe) candidates. The remaining 20 seats are unreserved. The Election Commissions data shows AP has an electorate of 3,99,84,868, with female voters outnumbering males at 2,02,21,455 and 1,97,59,489 respectively. Women voters have a significant presence in each constituency. However, this presence is not reflected in the Lok Sabha. No woman from Anantapur, Guntur, Hindupur, Machilipatnam, Nandyala and Ongole has ever been elected. Parliament represents the aspirations and concerns of its citizens. However, there have been instances of women candidates entering the fray in other constituencies. In Rajampet and Tirupati, the BJP and TD fielded women candidates, albeit only once. In 2014, Rajampet YSRC contestant PV Midhun Reddy was challenged by Daggupati Purandeswari, representing BJP. She secured 426990 votes but lost the battle. In 1996, TD gave Tirupatis Lok Sabha ticket to Gali Rajasree, who secured 292406 votes but was defeated by Nelavala Subrahmanyam of the Congress. In Narasapur, no major political party has given ticket to women since independence. However, Ganji Purnima, representing the Republican Party Of India (A), contested the polls there, got 865 votes and stood as the 14th runner-up. Similarly, for the Ongole Lok Sabha seat, Gogineni Bharati Devi, representing the SWA party, contested and secured 104703 votes but was defeated by P Ankineedu Prasada Rao of the Congress, who secured 284597 votes. Andhra Pradesh still faces challenges in ensuring adequate representation of women candidates in Lok Sabha elections. Efforts to promote gender equality and encourage womens participation remain crucial for a more balanced political landscape.
YSRCs Vijaya faces seasoned Ashok in Ichchapuram
Visakhapatnam: Novice, Piria Vijaya, will be facing TDs sitting MLA Bendala Ashok, who is trying for a hattrick win in Ichapuram assembly constituency in Srikakulam. Ashok defeated Vijayas husband Piria Sairaj in the 2019 elections. This border town assembly segment has been one of the bastions of TD all along. It won this segment eight of the nine times. The ruling YSRC, facing dissidence in the region, has nominated Piriya Vijaya, wife of Piriya Sairaj, who won the seat in 2009 on a TD ticket, but who joined YSRC in 2013. The constituency, which comprises Ichchapuram, Kaviti, Kanchili and Sompeta mandals, has a diverse demographic composition. The Reddika, Yadava and fishermen communities are dominant in the region. Kalinga, Bentho Oriya and Sri Shayana communities also play a crucial role in polls. Ichchapuram, one of the most backward segments, is a part of the Uddanam region affected by chronic kidney disease. The segment also shot into fame when three farmers were killed in police firing during an agitation against the thermal power plant in Sompeta. Reports said around 4,500 people have died of kidney diseases during the last two decades and as many as 35,000 people have been affected by the ailment. The WHO has identified Uddanam region as one of the three areas in the world with high prevalence of chronic kidney disease. Vijaya is banking on a government step to increase social security pension to the kidney patients from `2,500 to `10,000, a kidney research hospital and a drinking water project that was commissioned by the government, spending `700 crore. Ashok claims that it was Chandrababu Naidu who had, in his previous tenure as CM, sanctioned the Vamsadhara-Bahuda river link coconut orchards in Uddanam region. The project was not carried forward by the YSRC government, he notes. The YSRC government also failed to establish a coconut research centre in the region even as coconuts are cultivated in more than 40,000 acres, providing livelihood to 1.5 lakh farmers, daily wage labourers and traders, Ashok said. He said, as a result, farmers in this region were being forced to migrate to other states in search of livelihood. Sources said the YSRC leadership also solved dissidence in the constituency where three top leaders sought ticket this time. They include former MLA Piriya Sairaj, Narthu Rama Rao and Syam Prasad Reddy. Jagan Reddy nominated Narthu Rama Rao as MLC, Syam Prasad Reddy as chairman of the Society for Employment Generation and Enterprises Development Corporation and Piriya Vijaya as the MLA candidate.
AP: Minister Appalaraju in Fight to retain Palasa
Visakhapatnam: Dr Seediri Appala Raju, who won the Palasa constituency with a good margin over TD candidate Gouthu Sirisha, granddaughter of freedom fighter Gouth Latchanna in 2019, hopes to retain the seat in this election. Appalaraju hails from the fisher folk community and has been a brilliant student finding a seat in the open category in Rangaraya Medical College. He taught general medicine at Andhra Medical College and practised medicine at his home constituency for over 10 years. He joined YSRC in 2017 and was part of Jagan Mohan Reddys padaya yatra. Jagan Reddy handpicked Appalaraju and made him contest the elections. He won the election by a margin of over 16,000 and brought a swing of 11.9 per cent. He was made minister for animal husbandry and fisheries. Jagan Reddy focused on development of backward Srikakulam and that would pay off, Appala Raju. Displaying his pamphlet to the electorate, Appala Raju said the Mulapeta Sea port would receive the first ship in February next year. The port would be a game- changer improving infrastructure and bringing investment to the region, he said. He said Jagan Reddy also got major relief to chronic kidney patients by starting a super speciality hospital and research centre that would bring down incidents of kidney diseases in Uddanam and Palasa. The government also spent `700 crore to bring drinking water from Hiramandalam to Uddanam that would help the patients and the general public from the contagious diseases. Social welfare schemes worth `1,494 crore were implemented in the constituency during the last five years, the minister said. A doctor-turned minister hailing from the fisher folk community is a boon to the region, said his close follower Korrai Srikanth. However, the minister is not free from the allegations of aiding land grabbers and ignoring his own party leaders. Recently Duvvada Srikanth, Palasa municipal chairman and younger brother of Tekkali candidate Duvvada Srinivas, resigned from YSRC and joined TD. Gouth Sirisha, granddaughter of freedom fighter Sardar Gouthu Lachanna and daughter for former MLA Gouth Sivaji is also confident of dislodging Appala Raju. Combined with JS leadership, Sirisha hopes to encash on dissidence in the YSRC and anti-Appalaraju groups within YSRC. Observers say Sirisha failed to take advantage of the minister's land grabbing allegations by not raising it as a major issue. There is also a concern that her husband Venkayya choudhary, a Kamma, might wield power if Sirisha won the elections, the observers said.
Rise of Social Media Influencers in AP Politics
VISHAKHAPATNAM: Politicians in Andhra Pradesh are increasingly turning to social media influencers to reach out to and sway their voters. There are lesser numbers of traditional campaign rallies and press conferences as the new battleground for political influence has moved online. Recognising the immense reach and impact of social media personalities, politicians are actively courting these digital campaigners to promote their agendas. Offering lucrative sums ranging from Rs 500 to Rs 5,000 per post, and up to Rs 10,000 for interviews, they are tapping into the massive followings of these influential figures and agencies. A prime example is in Visakhapatnam parliament seats. The interviews of several candidates have been shared across various Vizag-based social media pages, even as the youtubers claimed they were not being paid, and they were only reaching information to their viewers. A growing symbiotic relationship between politicians and social media stars is all too clear. The trend extends to the highest levels of government as well. Chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy's recent social media event saw over 500 of the state's most active social media users in attendance, underscoring the importance he places on this digital outreach. Another evidence of this shift was seen in the YSRC party's recent video challenge, where the public was encouraged to record videos supporting the CM, which were then shared across the party's social media handles -- and also a photo, with CM, of the one that wins the competition. This innovative approach has generated significant buzz. An anonymous Vizag-based Instagram influencer with over 2,16,000 followers said political leaders have approached them, offering substantial sums to promote their campaigns through his platform. The role of social media influencers in AP politics is only set to grow. The ability to reach and sway large, engaged audiences has made them a crucial asset for politicians seeking to connect with voters in the digital age.
The BJP MP candidate from Anakapalli says that if elected to power, the NDA will soon develop Anakapalli on the lines of Visakhapatnam and it will be called Anakapatnam
Visakhapatnam - Kuala Lumpur flight to begin maiden journey at 10 p.m. on April 26
The VISA on Arrival facility provides an advantage to tourists visiting Kuala Lumpur, says Airport Advisory Committee
High Turnout As Nominations Close In Visakhapatnam, ASR
The 2024 AP elections nomination phase concluded on Thursday, marking a flurry of political activity across Visakhapatnam and the ASR districts. In Visakhapatnam, a total of 12 nominations were filed, while the ASR districts saw significant participation, with 11 nominations from Araku, and 12 each from Paderu and Rampachodavaram on the final day. According to the Election Commission of India website, a total of 69 nominations were received, including both independent and party candidates from Visakhapatnam, 39 from the Araku constituency, and 31 from the Anakapalli constituency.
Jagan Gives Final Touches to Much-Awaited Manifesto
Andhra Pradesh : Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy is giving final touches to release the much-awaited manifesto likely to be released on Saturday or Sunday. Taking a break after culmination of Memantha Siddham bus yatra at Tekkali in Srikakulam on Thursday, he is holding a series of meetings with party senior leaders at Tadepalle camp office in Guntur to finalize the manifesto, which he treats it as a sacred document. Sources said the manifesto might contain some surprise elements with a special focus on welfare of the people. Jagan is expected to give top priority to the welfare of women and youth this time in the manifesto in addition to laying more focus on improving infrastructure facilities in the State. The infrastructure development works might gain more momentum once the administrative capital is shifted to Visakhapatnam after completion of Assembly elections. During public meetings organized as part of Siddham bus yatra, he highlighted how the YSRCP government created a history, delivering various welfare schemes to the tune of Rs.2.50 lakh crore at the doorstep of the people. After releasing the manifesto, Jagan Mohan Reddy will intensify the election campaign and accordingly address road shows covering at least three Assembly constituencies.
Centre told to maintain status quo on VSP land
VIJAYAWADA: The Andhra Pradesh High Court has asked the Centre to maintain status quo on the sale of lands and assets of the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (VSP). When a batch of petitions, challenging the privatisation of VSP came up for hearing on Thursday, the Centre made it clear that it has taken a decision, in principle, to disinvest its stake in the plant and clarified there was no proposal to sell its assets. A batch of PILs challenging the proposal to disinvest the Centres stake were filed by former IPS officer VV Lakshminarayana, Praja Shanti Party president KA Paul and others. Some others filed petitions seeking directions to the VSP management to provide jobs to the land oustees as assured earlier. During the last hearing, the bench asked the Centre to place before it details regarding the Act by which it is privatising the plant and asked if it took any decision on the letter written by the chief minister regarding alternative measures for strengthening the plant instead of privatising it. It also wanted to know if the Centre consulted the employees, workers and other stakeholders before taking a decision on privatising the plant. Centre selling PSUs in name of disinvestment When the PILs came up for hearing on Thursday, CVR Rudraprasad, representing the Centre, informed the court that they have filed a counter as per its directions. Responding to it, Advocate General S Sriram said the counter filed by the Centre had nothing new. The AG said some English words were added and a fresh counter was filed. Sriram said the counter does not contain the details sought by the courtincluding no reference to the contents of the letter written by the CM. Additional Solicitor General B Narasimha Sharma, on behalf of the Centre, said that the finance ministry has responded to the Chief Ministers letter in 2021 itself. Narasimha Sharma informed the court that it has taken a decision, in principle, to privatise the plant, but there was no progress in the process. The ASG also informed the court that they have no proposal to sell the lands of the plant. He asserted that the Centre would not sell even an acre of VSP lands. Responding to this, the bench asked him if the Centre will maintain status quo on the sale of VSP lands, to which counsel Narasimha Sharma agreed. One of the petitioners counsel Y Balaji urged the court to record the same, to which the court responded positively and issued interim orders to maintain status quo. Intervening, Praja Shanti Party chief KA Paul, who is one of the petitioners, said the Centre is selling away PSUs in the name of disinvestment. He said several major industries have gone into the hands of private people and hoped that the VSP does not meet the same fate.
Unfortunate that VSP on verge of closure: Andhra Pradesh HC
VIJAYAWADA: The Andhra Pradesh High Court on Thursday commented that it was unfortunate that the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant is on the verge of closure due to scarcity of coal following the strike of Gangavaram Port workers. Hearing the petition of Steel Executives Association general secretary K Venkata Durga Prasad seeking the courts directions to the government to ensure that coal supply to Visakhapatnam Steel Plant is not hampered due to the strike of Gangavaram Port workers, Justice N Jayasurya said it is paramount to safeguard the interests of the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant and asked the senior officials to address the workers stir and directed the Visakhapatnam Port management to divert the coal stocks at Gangavaram port to Visakhapatnam port. The government pleader was directed to submit details regarding these from the State government to the court. The High Court registry was directed to make the Chief Secretary and Visakhapatnam Police Commissioner respondents in the case and clarified that till then no orders can be issued. Further hearing in the case was adjourned to Friday. Petitioners counsel Ambati Srikanth Reddy submitted to the court that due to the workers strike at Gangavaram port, coal supply to Visakhapatnam Steel Plant has been affected, and as a result, out of three furnaces in the steel plant, only one is working and other two furnaces were damaged. He further submitted that it would take several crores of rupees to repair those furnaces and said once the existing coal stock is finished, the steel plant will be closed. Stating that it will affect the livelihood of thousands of workers and employees, Srikanth Reddy said that a letter was written to the Chief Secretary explaining the problem and seeking a solution. Responding to this, the government pleader said talks between Gangavaram port management and workers have taken place and said it is the responsibility of the management to ensure the needs and incentives of the workers as per the previous agreement. It was said that the district Collector informed the same to the port management and at present the Collector is busy with election duties. Explaining to the court, counsel for Gangavaram Port YV Ravi Prasad said the workers were making untenable demands. He said to compensate for the land acquisition for the port construction, locals were provided jobs in the port and each of them was being paid Rs 22,000, though they were unskilled. He submitted to the court that the workers are now demanding Rs 36,000 per month as salary and Rs 50 lakh for the worker who takes VRS. Further, he informed that no strike notice was served in advance and the workers with their families resorted to flash strike. As all those on strike are locals, they are not allowing workers from other regions to enter the port, he added and said that the port is incurring a loss of Rs 5 crore per day with port activity stalled. According to him, around 2.7 lakh metric tonnes of coal belonging to the Visakhapatnam Steel plant is stocked at Gangavaram port and already 80,000 metric tonnes have been shipped to Visakhapatnam port. In addition to this, the law and order situation has been compromised due to the flash strikes of workers, and the police are not acting on the complaint from the port management, Ravi Prasad added.
YSRC govt failed to complete Polavaram project due to graft: Piyush Goyal
VIJAYAWADA : Union Minister for Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal on Thursday claimed that Andhra Pradesh has witnessed the YSRCs vindictive and corrupt rule in the past five years. Addressing the media in Vijayawada during his one-day visit to the State, the BJP leader alleged that the State has experienced a string of failures marked by misgovernance at the highest levels in the last five years. He noted that despite Central grants to the tune of Rs 15,000 crore being released for Polavaram project, the government failed to complete it due to corruption, thus betraying the farmers of the State. Despite the fact that YSR in the YSR Congress Partys name stands for Yuvajana, Shramik and Rythu, the youth, workers and farmers have been neglected. The State suffered mismanagement under Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. Despite the immense potential in the State and its previous status as a fast-developing region, the last five years have seen it overrun by the sand, land and liquor mafias, he claimed. He added Central schemes designed to benefit the poor were not fully executed in the State. The Narendra Modi-led Centre approved approximately 21.32 lakh homes for the State under PMAY, but the ruling YSRC only managed to distribute 3.25 lakh homes to beneficiaries, he alleged. He expressed hope that once TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu becomes the chief minister, the State will be placed on the path of progress by a double-engine government. Union Minister Piyush Goyal during a press conference Union minister accuses YSRC govt of diverting Rs 8,000 crore Panchayat funds He assured people that the TDP-led NDA alliance in the State will prioritise the completion of Polavaram, ensuring that Godavari water flows into every household and farm. On the issue of setting up of a railway zone as promised, the Union minister alleged that the YSRC government has not yet provided suitable land in Visakhapatnam. He asserted that the alliance would win and the new government would allocate land for the construction of the special railway zone. He accused the state government of diverting Rs 8,000 crore in panchayat grants between 201920 and 202223. The Union Minister stated that the countrys GDP ranking has improved from 11th to 5th globally, and it is poised to become the third-largest economy in the next five years. During Modis tenure, 20 crore people emerged out of poverty without discrimination based on religion, caste, or state, with the measures implemented by the Centre, he added. Piyush Goyal highlighted the success of the striking down of Article 370, which he said facilitated the integration of Kashmir into India.
Summer camp at Visakhapatnams Port Stadium offers 25 sports under one roof
The summer camp by Vishwanadh Sports Club will begin from April 29 in Visakhapatnam
Reviving tradition: Karrasamu returns to Andhra Pradeshs martial arts scene
Karrasamu, a traditional martial art form of Andhra Pradesh, is seeing a revival in Visakhapatnam
Speaker Sitaram Objects to Naidus Remarks
Visakhapatnam : Speaker Tammineni Sitaram strongly objected to remarks of Telugu Desam chief N. Chandrababu Naidu during the latters election meeting in Amadalavalasa on Tuesday. Addressing a press conference at his home in Amadalavalasa in Srikakulam district on Thursday, Sitaram said Chandrababu Naidu has, without considering his status as speaker, called him corrupt and linked him to the sand mafia amassing illegal wealth. He (Naidu) made several allegations against me and my community, my birth place and my home constituency; reading a script given by somebody else. I will put him in the peoples court on June 4, Sitaram remarked, underlining that the former CM will have to pay a price. The Speaker said despite being in politics for 40 years, 14 years of it as chief minister, Chandrababu Naidu is now stooping low to pass adverse remarks against the speaker of the legislative assembly. Naidu destroyed N.T. Rama Raos family. Unable to digest the success of Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, of late he is creating trouble within Rajasekhara Reddys family too, Sitaram charged.
Kiran to foil BJP entry into SKL
Visakhapatnam: A divided Telugu Desam and nomination of a political novice carrying the BJP ticket might make it easy for YSRC candidate Gorle Kiran Kumar to win the polls in Etcherla Assembly constituency in Srikakulam district. Kiran Kumar defeated TD veteran and politburo member Kimidi Kala Venkata Rao in the 2019 elections, though he lost the polls there in 2014. The Etcherla assembly segment has been one of the bastions of the Telugu Desam ever since its inception. Kavali Prathibha Bharathi won the seat five times and served as a minister, and later as Speaker of the assembly from 1983 to 2004. Around 98 per cent of the voters are BCs with the Turpu Kapu community having a majority followed by Velama, Kalinga, Telaga, SCs and other BC communities. Turpu Kapus have around 50,000 votes in the constituency out of the 2.42 lakh votes. In this background, the NDA fielding BJP candidate N Eswara Rao there came as a surprise to political observers. Esawara Rao belongs to the Kamma community and obtained the ticket by convincing the BJP high command that the partys ground support there had improved during the last five years and he would be able to edge out the YSRC in this election. Local reports said some members of the community migrated to Etcherla in 70 and 80s and purchased huge chunks of land for throw away price, which have now became valuable commercial land. Around 2,000 families own lands close to the National Highway and they wield high influence in the constituency. Reports said it was infighting within Telugu Desam that fetched the ticket to BJPs Eswara Rao. It was like two cats fighting over a cake and a monkey taking it away, joked a local leader. Sources said TD became weak after Kala Venkata Rao lost the polls there in 2019 to YSRCs Kiran Kumar. Taking advantage of the situation, Kalisetti Appala Naidu staked his claim for the seat and informed the TD high command that he would be the right choice. Both began to show their strength as the elections approached. TD chief Chandrababu Naidu felt the infighting would lead to the loss of the segment to YSRC. Around the same time, the BJP mooted the idea of fielding Eswara Rao. Naidu fell for the idea and agreed to field a BJP candidate. I am surprised at the guts the NDA has shown in fielding a BJP candidate in a BC dominated constituency, said a senior YSRC leader. The YSRC welfare schemes will see me through, Kiran Kumar said, while Eswara Rao said his social service and charity work for the last 15 years would help him win this seat with a good majority.
Cash, Items of Rs 165.91 Crore Seized in AP After Release of Election Schedule
Vijayawada: Chief Electoral Officer Mukesh Meena has said cash, liquor, drugs, precious metals, free bees and other items worth more than Rs 165.91 crore have been seized since the announcement of the election schedule in AP. He said that as the general elections are slated for May 13 in the state, a strong vigil has been kept on the illegal transportation of cash, liquor, drugs, precious metals etc that might be distributed by candidates or parties to attract voters. Through inter-state as well as other check posts in the state, more than 20 enforcement agencies such as police, excise, income tax, forest, ED, NCB, RPF, customs etc are on constant vigil against illegal transportation of cash and goods for election-related canvassing. Illegally transported assets worth Rs 8.65 crore have been seized in the last 24 hours alone. The highest amount of Rs 30.66 crore was seized in Anantapur LS constituency and the lowest amount of Rs 1.15 crore in Narsapuram LS. The total amount seized till date was Rs 36.89 crore in cash, 6,62,402.65 litres of liquor worth Rs 20.32 crore, 52,28,218.94 grams of drugs worth Rs 2.78 crore, 14,73,734.46 grams of precious metals worth Rs 91.26 crore, 4,88,557 items worth Rs 2.90 crore, Freebies (freebies) and other items worth Rs 11.74 crore were seized, he said. In Tirupati (SC), Rs 19.37 crore was seized; Kakinada Rs 18.18 crore, Elur Rs 13.77 crore, Visakhapatnam Rs 12.50 crore, Rajampet Rs 6.96 crore, Vijayawada Rs 6.75 crore, Nandyala Rs 5.63 crore, Kadapa Rs 5.62 crore, Narasaraopet Rs 4.61 crore, Vizianagaram Rs 4.18 crore, Bapatla (SC) Rs 3.99 crore, Anakapalli Rs 3.72 crore, Rajahmundry Rs 3.62 crore, Srikakulam Rs 3.61 crore, Araku (ST) Rs 3.37 crore, Nellore Rs 3 crore, Machilipatnam Rs 2.87 crore, Guntur Rs 2.75 crore, Kurnool Rs 2.45 crore, Chittoor (SC) Rs 1.94 crore, Ongole Rs 1.93 crore, Hindupur Rs 1.63 crore and in Amalapuram (SC) Rs 1.52 crore.
Malaria cases have witnessed a decline in Visakhapatnam district, says DM&HO
Awareness rally marks World Malaria Day in city; the officials urge denizens to use mosquito nets and observe every Friday as the dry day
Now, Economy Meals are available at 20 in select railway stations
The facility has been introduced at Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram and Srikakulam Road stations in the Waltair Division of East Coast Railway
ECoR offers economy meals for passengers at nine stations in summer
Bhubaneswar: The East Coast Railway (ECoR) will provide economy meals at nine important stations across its jurisdiction in the summer. ECoR sources here on Thursday said economy meals are being provided to passengers at Khurda Road, Sambalpur, Titilagarh, Balangir,Kantabanji, Palasa, Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, and Srikakulam Railway Stations. To ensure easy access, these meals will be available []
Rajnath exposes failures of YSRC govt on irrigation, industrial fronts
VISAKHAPATNAM: Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh took a dig at the Andhra Pradesh government for the delay in the completion of the Polavaram project. He was speaking at an intellectuals meeting held in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday, where he addressed various issues concerning the development and governance of AP. He mentioned the allocation of Rs 15,000 crore by the Central government for the Polavaram project to address the irrigation needs of farmers in AP and criticised the State government for its lack of seriousness in project execution. To solve the irrigation problem of farmers in AP, the Central government has given Rs 15,000 crore for the Polavaram Project. This project should have been completed long ago, but the State government here is not serious about this project, he observed. Emphasising the significance of the Visakhapatnam-Chennai Industrial Corridor (VCIC), he said that it is poised to become the economic backbone of the region. The approximately 465-km VCIC corridor, a vital segment of the East West Economic Corridor, is expected to attract investments worth `100 billion to India, generating around one million job opportunities, he noted. Expressing concern over the delayed progress of the VCIC due to the State governments inefficiency, Rajnath Singh highlighted the importance of expediting the project. He further highlighted the fact that apart from the AP government, no other government in the country is collecting tax for garbage collection. The Defence Minister also raised concerns about the rising drug-related issues in Visakhapatnam, remarking on their negative impact on the citys reputation. Visakhapatnam, which is supposed to become a cultural, industrial, and commercial hub, is now becoming infamous as a drug capital. It is very unfortunate. City of Destiny is now an International Drugs Distribution Centre of drugs, he rued. He highlighted concerns over various illegal activities such as sand, land, mining, and milling mafias operating openly in AP, attributing them to the failures of the YSRC government. He further criticised the financial management of the YSRC government, noting the States substantial debt of Rs 13.5 lakh crore, despite increased taxes. He concluded by asserting the necessity for a change in leadership to address these challenges, expressing the NDAs commitment to alleviate AP from what he perceives as misgovernance and corruption.
Social Media: Majority Of Politicians In Ap Yet To Embrace Social Media | Visakhapatnam News The Times of India
Congress manifesto hints at religious quota in armed forces: Rajnath Singh
Defence minister Rajnath Singh echoed PM Modi's recent remarks and alleged Wednesday that Congress's manifesto for ongoing LS polls suggests covert attempts to introduce religion-based reservation even within the armed forces.Addressing a gathering of intellectuals in support of BJP-TDP-Jana Sena alliance in Visakhapatnam, senior BJP politician accused Congress of drawing from Sachar Committee report, which proposed conducting a religious census within the armed forces.
Car Rams into Road and Postal Worker Injured
Visakhapatnam : A major accident was averted when a car serviced at Mahindra Car Servicing Centre crashed through the centre's iron gates onto the road at Kancharapalem Junction in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday. The vehicle struck postal worker Ravi Kiran's two-wheeler, who fortunately sustained no serious injuries. It then continued onto the footpath, causing chaos among the pedestrians, Kancharapalem police said. Eyewitnesses claim the car was inadvertently left in gear, and rolled through closed gates, while the service centre's staff describe it as a freak occurrence with an automatic car. However, local motorists and residents have raised concerns about the safety practices at the service centre, questioning how a car could be left unattended and allowed to roll onto a busy street. Compounding the issue, it appears the centre's staff tried to conceal the accident by swiftly clearing the site of the car and the injured biker, raising allegations of irresponsibility. Authorities are still investigating the cause, but local residents demand that traffic police enforce measures against the service centre to prevent future incidents. Kancharapalem police have registered a case.
Steel Plant Union Leaders Held
Visakhapatnam: Two prominent leaders of the Visakhapatnam steel plant employees union, D. Adinarayana and U. Ramaswamy, were arrested while participating in a dharna at the site, coinciding with defence minister Rajnath Singhs visit to the city on Wednesday. The arrests have ignited anger among the steel plant workers and opposition parties, who allege that the YSRC government is collaborating with the BJP to deploy police forces against them. The situation intensified when the arrests occurred just 24 hours after Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy had a meeting with the steel plants trade union leaders on Tuesday.
Vizag turned into hub for drugs: Rajnath Singh
Visakhapatnam : Union Defence minister Rajnath Singh has criticised the ruling YSRC saying it encouraged the drug and land mafias in Visakhapatnam in the last five years. The Union minister expressed his concern at a gathering of intellectuals in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday. He asserted that such activities can be curbed only when the TD-JS-BJP alliance assumed power in the state. The Union government, he said, has clear information about the land and sand mafias in Visakhapatnam and across Andhra Pradesh respectively. He criticised the YSRC government for accumulating a staggering debt of `13.5 lakh crore and alleged that corruption was widespread, particularly in matters of sand mining and land acquisition. He further said that the Congress tried to appease Muslims by creating reservations during its tenure of 2004-2014 despite adverse court orders. The minister lamented the diversion of funds meant for various communities, including farmers by the YSRC government. He also said there was a lack of developmental initiatives by the state government, which hindered Visakhapatnam's potential as an industrial hub. Despite the allocation of Rs 15,000 crore by the Centre for the Polavaram project, the state government failed to expedite its completion, he said. Rajnath Singh vowed that if the three-party alliance won power, developmental programmes would get a boost in AP and we will also maintain law and order. The Union minister also accused the YSRC of favouring its supporters financially while neglecting others, leading to the proliferation of criminal activities such as the sand, liquor and drug mafias. M. Bharat, the LS candidate for Visakhapatnam, urged the Centre to acknowledge the sacrifices of AP residents during the establishment of the Visakha Steel Plant. He highlighted the plight of those who were yet to be rehabilitated and sought an end to privatisation of the steel plant. Vishnukumar Raju, who is Assembly candidate for the Visakhapatnam constituency, criticised the lack of progress in the state and alleged a surge in criminal activities. The event was attended by Rajya Sabha member G.V.L. Narsimha Rao, BJP state vice-president V.V.S. Madhav, Telugu Desam's Gandi Babi and Jana Sena's Ushakiran.
Election a one-sided war, says Minister Dharmana
Visakhapatnam: This election is going to be a one-sided war, claimed revenue minister Dharmana Prasada Rao after filing his nominations for the Srikakulam Assembly seat on Wednesday. The minister, in his affidavit, showed a wealth of Rs 6 crore in movable assets and properties of Rs 9.68 crore. His wife Gajapalkhis total assets were Rs 8 crore. Addressing his supporters, the minister said the welfare schemes launched by the YSRC government have benefited the poor and the middle class. These sections remained happy all these five years and they would grow further and the state would be developed in all spheres if the same government was re-elected. We would continue the welfare schemes, he said. Asserting that north Andhra Pradesh benefited more from this government, the minister said he had requested Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy to establish the administrative capital in Visakhapatnam. Jagan Mohan Reddy would do so if the YSRC retained power, he said. He said, If Visakhapatnam is made the capital, investment from all directions would come to north coastal Andhra Pradesh. This would improve the living standards of the people of this region, which remained neglected for decades. Stating that initiative has already been taken to develop Srikakulam district, the minister said the sea port at Mulapeta under Tekkali mandal was getting ready. After its commissioning, Srikakulam district would be connected to the outside world for the first time in 75 years. In addition, a fishing harbour was coming up at Budagatlapalem and the government had commissioned a super specialty and research hospital at Palasa for chronic kidney patients. A drinking water project was commissioned for kidney patients at Uddanam at a cost of Rs 700 crore, he said. Infrastructure was also developed in respect of schools and hospitals in the district. But Chandrababu Naidu is trying to convince people that no development has taken place in Srikakulam. First, he has to explain to the people what he did for this state or any district during his rule from 2014 to 2019. Prasada Rao said, This is going to be a one- sided war. Enough indications were given by the people all these days, and we will return to power. He appealed to the people to support Perada Tilak, who is contesting for the Srikakulam Lok Sabha seat.
Rush to file Nominations as Deadline Looms
Visakhapatnam: The nomination process is in full swing in Visakhapatnam as the deadline for submission of papers is fast approaching. Many candidates filed their nominations after leading rallies of their supporters through city streets. The excitement and an air of anticipation are electrifying the poll scene with rallies, road shows and public meetings taking place across the state set for both assembly and parliament polls. Wednesday was the seventh day of the nominations. Avanti Srinivas Rao, the YSRC nominee for Bheemli assembly seat, submitted his nominations after a grand rally and cultural performances in the streets. An estimated 3000 people attended the street show. In the 2019 elections, Srinivas Raos total assets were `21 crore. As per his affidavit this time, his total assets were 5,45,89,481 and his spouse has assets of `4,78,86,699. His immovable assets are valued at more than `7 crore. After filing the nomination, he told the media that it required courage to stand up again in Bheemli after what he had been through. He urged the people of Bheemli to vote for him. The government spent around `2500 crore on welfare and `500 crore on development in the Bheemli constituency, he claimed. M.V.V. Satyanarayana, another YSRC assembly candidate, too filed his nomination. He started from the party office in a rally that passed through various locations in Visakhapatnam East constituency. Satyanarayana's assets have increased significantly since 2014. His total assets were at `203 crore in 2019. Now, his assets total `228 crore, 18 lakh. His wife has assets of `112 crore, 30 lakh. His immovable assets were valued around `69 lakh. Gudivada Amarnath of the YSRC filed his nominations for Gajuwaka constituency. The TDP-BJP-JS alliance also organised rallies in various constituencies for the nomination filings of Palla Srinivas in Gajuwaka constituency, Ganababu in west constituency, Vamsi Krishna Yadav in south constituency, and Panchakarla Ramesh in Pendurthi constituency. A large number of TD-JS-BJP leaders attended the nomination rallies, which featured cultural performances and spirited raising of slogans.
Deputy CM Challenges C.M. Ramesh
Visakhapatnam : Deputy Chief Minister Budi Mutyala Naidu, who is the YSRC candidate from the Anakapalli Lok Sabha constituency, has challenged his opponent C.M. Ramesh, NDA alliance candidate from Anakapalli, about the development carried out in the Madugula assembly constituency. The deputy CM maintained that Madugula is one of the best constituencies in the country with all basic infrastructural facilities. He underlined that every deserving family in the constituency has benefitted from one social welfare scheme or the other, apart from housing. Mutyala Naidu has won twice from Madugula in 2014 and 2019. He became a Deputy Chief Minister in the second reshuffle of the Jagan Mohan Reddy cabinet. YSRC has fielded Mutyala Naidu from the Anakapalli Lok Sabha candidate after the NDA alliance nominated C.M. Ramesh as its candidate from the parliamentary constituency. Having a grip over assembly constituencies within the Lok Sabha segment, the Deputy CM has launched his campaign with the slogan that Ramesh is an outsider who has never spent any time in the constituency. Moreover, Ramesh owns corporate organisations with which he would be busy after elections, he stated. Mutyala Naidu accompanied YSRC assembly candidates Karanam Dharmasri from Chodavaram and Malasala Bharat from Anakapalli when the two filed their nominations from their respective constituencies. He also participated in a Prana Pratishta ceremony at the Sataram Temple in Yaddavanipalem village in K. Kotapadu mandal in Anakapalli district.
NTSL to Organize Tech Exhibition from May 9
During the exhibition, DRDO will also organise a virtual reality display of Arjun Main Battle Tank, BrahMos Missile, AEW&C (Airborne Early Warning and Control System) LCA Tejas. Visakhapatnam: The Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL), a research facility of the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), is set to mark National Technology Day 2024 with engaging activities for students. The celebrations, scheduled for May 9-10, will feature an Open House showcasing NSTLs technological innovations. Degree and polytechnic college students, as well as those in Classes XI and XII, are invited to attend. The Open House will allow students to witness various weapons and systems developed by NSTL-DRDO for the Indian Navy, through exhibitions and a detailed multimedia presentation, a press release said. This apart, NSTL is also hosting a competition to inspire innovation among young minds. The competition, themed From Schools to Start-up: Igniting Young Minds to Innovate, invites students to submit models or exhibits demonstrating their innovative ideas. Entries, accompanied by an abstract approved by their principal, should be sent to NSTL or via email to ntdc.nstl.drdo@gmail.com by April 30. Best models and exhibits will be featured during the Open House, with winners receiving prizes and certificates for their creativity. Students seeking more information or wishing to register can contact the relevant authorities.
Research equipment opened at IIPE in Visakhapatnam
Research equipment opened at IIPE in Visakhapatnam
A large number of people take part in the rallies
Botsa objects to Naidu's remarks on AP CM
Visakhapatnam: Education Minister Botsa Satyanarayana strongly objected to the remarks made by TD chief Chandrababu Naidu at chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy and other important leaders at his public meetings at S Kota and elsewhere. ``He called chief minister who is adored by people as neech . What should we call a man who backstabbed his father-in-law and grabbed power in the State,he asked. Addressing a press conference in the party office in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday, Botsa Satyanarayana said people knew who were actual neech . ``Naidu is king of corruption. When entered politics, he rode a bicycle and had two acres of land for livelihood. How did he make Rs 1,400 crore, he asked. He said Chandrababu Naidu ran away from Hyderabad after he was caught in `Note for Vote scam. The minister also ridiculed Chandrababu Naidu who questioned why S Kota was not merged with Visakhapatna district. He said Naidu failed to realize that once Visakhapatnam was made the capital places like S Kota, Araku, Parvathipuram and Anakapalli would be developed. ``Naidu went to court and blocked capital status for Visakhapatnam and now demanding merger of S Kota with Visakhapatnam, Satyanarayana said. He said Chandrababu Naidu was not realizing that Jagan Mohan Reddy would become chief minister again and serve the people. ``If Jagan Mohan Reddy becomes chief minister, the students would be benefited most. He had introduced CBSE syllabus in hundreds of schools and IB syllabus which is very expensive. The government is already imparting education through tabs from eighth standard onwards and tying up with global universities like Cambridge, Satyanarayana said. If these changes in education needed to be continued, it was essential to reelect Jagan Mohan Reddy as the chief minister, Satyanarayana said.
VISAKHAPATNAM: Amid the furore around wealth redistribution , an idea Congress leader Rahul Gandhi allegedly said would be followed up on and implemented if his party was voted to power; Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday said previous Congress governments at the Centre tried to create a division in the country's armed forces by recommending a 'religious census'. Addressing an election campaign at Vishakhapatnam on Wednesday, the Union Defence Minister said, The Sachar Committee, which was formed by the Congress government, recommended a religion-based census in the armed forces in 2006. The Congress, in its manifesto (for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections), has also hinted at a reservation for religious minorities if they are elected. If they introduce reservations for religious minorities and extend the idea to the armed forces, it wouldn't bode well for the country's unity and integrity of the country. What worries me more is that whatever the Congress has put in its manifesto in the name of minority welfare has echoes of the ideas and recommendations in the Sachar Committee report, the Union Defence Minister said. 'Vote bank hungry' Congress wants to implement quota on basis of religion: PM Modi In a scathing attack on the Congress over its 'appeasement' politics, he said the grand old party was trying to introduce a 'religion-based reservation' through the back door, adding that appeasement shows the 'real face' of the Congress. The Congress, through its manifesto, was subtly trying to bring back the idea of reservation on grounds of religion into the political and electoral discourse. However, PM Modi exposed their face because of which he is facing such brickbats from the Congress, Rajnath added. The promises that the Congress has made in its manifesto stand to divide our society. Sections 3 and 6, under the Minorities Chapter in their manifesto, bare their real intentions. This is a party that divided the country on religious lines and has appeasement in its DNA, the Union Defence Minister stated further. The 'Rangnath Mishra Commission' and 'Sacchar Commission' were put together under the previous Congress-led UPA at the Centre, with the sole purpose of according a special treatment to a particular community in the name of minority welfare, the Union Minister said. I remember when (former) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said minorities, especially Muslims, have the first right to the country's resources. And when Modi-ji reminded the Congress of the statement by the former PM, they got furious, Rajnath added. BJP defends Modi's remarks on Congress redistributing money to Muslims The previous Congress government in undivided Andhra Pradesh set up a 'communal laboratory' by giving reservations to Muslims in government jobs, Rajnath alleged, adding that it amounted to a blatant disregard of the ideas enshrined in the Constitution. From 2004 to 2014, the Congress government made five attempts to introduce Muslim reservation but the Supreme Court and the laws of land prevented them from advancing their agenda, he added. On the chief of Congress' overseas chapter, Sam Pitroda calling for discussions on the introduction of an 'inheritance tax' in the country on the lines of the US, the Union Defence Minister said the grand old party should clarify whether it wants to impose such a levy. BJP targets Sam Pitroda's inheritance tax remark; Congress distances itself, calls it Modi's 'malicious' campaign
Educational institutions are requested to depute students to participate in the events
Andhra Pradesh CM reiterates support to VSP staff stir against privatisation
VIJSAKHAPATNAM: Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Tuesday reiterated that the State government and his party will continue to support the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (VSP) employees struggle against privatisation of the plant. Interacting with the Visakha Ukku Parirakshana Porata Samithi leaders at Endada, he said the State government and the YSRC have time and again expressed solidarity with their cause. He recalled the YSRC writing to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to abandon the move to privatise VSP. Allocation of iron ore mines on a permanent basis will improve the plants financial health. We are working tirelessly and exerting pressure on the Central government in this regard. The YSRC has the right to seek the support of Vizag Steel Plant workers in this election as we have been extending support to you, he asserted. Criticising the Opposition parties, he said, Those who have formed an alliance (TDP, JSP and BJP), have jettisoned their principles and values concerning the VSP issue.
Jagan Offers Full Support To Unions Against VSP Privatisation
Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has told union leaders of the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (VSP) that his party and government will give full support to them in their fight against the privatisation of the organisation. Senior leaders of the trade unions representing Visakha Ukku Parirakshana Porata Samithi met Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy on Tuesday in Visakhapatnam at Madhurawada campsite, where he has halted while on his Memanta Siddham bus yatra in north Andhra. VSP union leaders explained to the CM the move of central government to privatise the steel plant on grounds including incurring losses and facing shortage of raw materials. The Chief Minister heard them and emphasised that the state government and YSR Congress Party are standing in support of the workers fighting against the privatisation of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant. Jagan Mohan Reddy informed the union leaders that he has already written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, proposing solutions for the steel plant issue. Furthermore, we have passed a resolution in the assembly opposing privatisation of the steel plant, he pointed out. The YSRC chief said opposition parties, who have formed the NDA alliance, have abandoned their moral principles and values when it comes to the steel plant, thus revealing their stance. He underlined that permanent allocation of iron ore mines will significantly improve the plant's condition. He maintained that he is tirelessly working towards the revival of the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, exerting constant pressure on the central government. Industries minister Gudivada Amarnath, speaking to reporters separately, maintained that the central government has put on hold privatisation of the steel plant because the state government has not given its consent to it. Trade union leaders who met the Chief Minister included Ch. Narsinga Rao, D. Adinarayana and Mantri Rajasekhar. They suggested that the state government make efforts to merge RINL, the corporate entity of the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, with the Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL). They underlined that similar attempts of privatising steel plants in West Bengal, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh and Tamil Nadu had failed because of peoples agitation. The leaders told the CM that the steel plant had been established after a prolonged Visakha Ukku Andhrula Hakku movement in which 32 people sacrificed their lives.
HC Directs Inclusion Of Dalit Tonsure Victims As Respondents
The Andhra Pradesh High Court issued directions to include the victims in the Dalit tonsure case as respondents and posted the next hearing in the case to May 1. A single judge bench headed by Justice A. Venkata Ravindra Babu held hearing here on Tuesday on a batch of petitions filed by the MLC Thota Trimurthulu and eight others challenging the order issued by the Visakhapatnam SC and ST special court imposing 18 months jail term. The victims are from the Dalit community. The lawyers representing the Dalit victims, Sarath Chandra and N. Ashwani Kumar, submitted to the court that the victims in the case were not made as respondents as per provisions of the SC, ST Act. Accordingly, the court agreed with them and adjourned the hearing.
'Will fulfil peoples dreams with schemes,' says Jagan Mohan Reddy
VIJAYAWADA: Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Tuesday said that his governments schemes were aimed at fulfilling the dreams of the people of the State, particularly women and elderly people. Speaking at the Memanta Siddham public meeting in Vizianagaram district, Jagan said for him, the dreams of the people are his schemes. In the last 58 months, I have transferred Rs 3.75 lakh crore into the accounts of the people through various DBT and non-DBT initiatives. People from all walks of life have different dreams. I will fulfil everyones dreams through my schemes, he asserted. Jagan added that he had understood the dreams of the poor and introduced nearly 40 schemes. To fulfil these dreams, I pressed the button 130 times, distributing Rs 2.70 lakh crore into their bank accounts through various welfare schemes. I am proud to say that I could deliver the dreams of my sisters directly into their bank accounts through my schemes, he said. Explaining the initiatives he has introduced to fulfil the dreams of the people, he said YSR Aasara and the YSR Zero Interest were implemented to empower women. The YSR Cheyutha scheme was crafted to support SC, ST, BC, and Minority sisters aged between 45 and 60 years. For my Kapu sisters, we initiated the Kapu Nestham scheme, he pointed out. Jagan said women dream of owning homes. To fulfil this dream, we have issued 31 lakh house titles in the name of my sisters, with 21 lakh houses already under construction. The dream belongs to you, but the scheme is mine, he asserted. During the previous TDP regime, such schemes were non-existent. We witnessed a government which focused solely on monetary gains, a regime that cheated the women, left them stranded, and exploited them, Jagan alleged. On prioritising the education sector in the State, Jagan said he saw children unable to attend school due to poverty during his padayatra. I had understood the aspirations of the poor mother who dreams of a bright future for her children. To fulfil them, we established English medium schools, introducing IB in government education. We introduced various measures such as TOEFL training in government schools starting from the third grade, Byjus content, and digital teaching from the sixth grade, and providing tablets to students in the eighth grade. We have extended educational and accommodation benefits to 93 per cent of children pursuing higher education. These are the dreams of the children and we have fulfilled them, he said. He questioned whether TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu had done anything for the poor during his regime. How come Chandrababu Naidu did not come up with any such initiatives? It is because Chandrababu signifies Chandramukhi, not someone who works for the welfare of the poor, but someone who preys on them, Jagan quipped. Jagan likely to release YSRC manifesto on Friday After concluding his bus yatra on Wednesday, Jagan is likely to release the YSRC manifesto on April 26. The YSRC president held a meeting with senior leaders, MLAs and candidates who are in the poll fray from north Andhra region on Tuesday when he took a break from campaigning. He reportedly discussed with them issues that need to be included in the agenda, specifically with respect to development of Visakhapatnam, which is touted as the executive capital of the State. Jagan reportedly told the leaders that he would not promise any scheme that cannot be implemented. We shall come out with a manifesto that promises what we can deliver, he told his leaders. According to sources, all the welfare schemes that are being implemented will be continued. The Chief Minister will reach Vijayawada on Wednesday after completing his Memanta Siddham yatra in Srikakulam. On April 25, he will file his nomination in Pulivendula and address the public. Subsequently, party leaders are chalking out a schedule of public meetings to be addressed by Jagan as part of the third phase of campaigning. Jagan is likely to address two public meetings in a day one each in a region, sources said.
SCR Announces Cancellation, diversion and Rescheduling of Trains
Visakhapatnam : The South Central Railway has announced the cancellation, diversion and rescheduling of trains due to non-interlocking works for the commissioning of the 3rd line between Bona Kalu-Chinta Kani-Pandillapalli and Errupalem-Tondalagopavaram-Madhira stations over the Kazipet-Vijayawada section. Diversion of trains: Diversion via Vijayawada-Duvvada-Vizianagaram-Rayagada-Raipur-Nagpur: Train No. 20805 (Visakhapatnam-New Delhi) and Train No. 20806 (New Delhi-Visakhapatnam) will be diverted from their existing routes to pass through Vizianagaram, Rayagada, Titlagarh, Raipur, and Nagpur. Stoppages will be eliminated at Anakapalle, Samalkot, Rajahmundry, Tadepalligudem, Eluru, Vijayawada, Khammam, Warangal, Peddapalli, Ramagundam, Sirpur Kagaznagar, Balharshah, and Chandrapur stations. Train No. 20803 (Visakhapatnam-Gandhidham) and Train No. 20804 (Gandhidham-Visakhapatnam) will also follow this diverted route, with Stoppages were eliminated at certain stations. Diversion via Vijayawada-Duvvada-Vizianagaram-Rayagada-Raipur-Nagpur: Train No. 18519 (Visakhapatnam-LTT) and Train No. 18520 (LTT-Visakhapatnam) will be diverted through Vijayawada-Guntur-Pagidipalli-Secunderabad route instead of the existing route via Kazipet. Stoppages will be eliminated at Kazipet station. Similarly, other trains like Train No. 18045 (Shalimar-Hyderabad), Train No. 18046 (Hyderabad-Shalimar), Train No. 11019 (CSMT-Bhubaneswar), and Train No. 11020 (Bhubaneswar-CSMT) will be diverted via this route, with specific stoppages eliminated. Diversion via Vijayawada-Guntur-Nandyal-Guntakal-Ballari: Train No. 18112 (Yeshvantpur-Tata) will follow this diverted route with stoppages eliminated at Raichur, Yadgir, Chittapur, Tandur, Vikarabad, Lingampalli, Secunderabad, Moula Ali, Warangal, and Khammam stations. Elimination of stoppages: Stoppages at Madhira Station for certain trains, including Train No. 11020 (Bhubaneswar-CSMT Konark Exp), Train No. 12861 (Visakhapatnam-Mahbubnagar Exp), and Train No. 12862 (Mahbubnagar-Visakhapatnam Exp) will be eliminated on specific days. Rescheduling of trains: Additionally, there will be rescheduling of trains, including Train No. 20833 (Visakhapatnam-Secunderabad Vande Bharat) and Train No. 20834 (Secunderabad-Visakhapatnam Vande Bharat) with varying reschedule times at Visakhapatnam and Secunderabad stations on specific dates. The South Central Railway advises passengers to check updated schedules and plan their travel accordingly, considering the diversions and rescheduling of train services due to the ongoing non-interlocking works.
Minister Seediri plans for success of CMs Tekkali meeting
VISAKHAPATNAM: Animal husbandry minister for Seediri Appalaraju held a preparatory meeting in his Palasa constituency on Tuesday. He discussed with his followers, YSRCP leaders and activists how to make Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddys Tekkali public meeting on Wednesday a grand success. Speaking to media, Appalaraju said people are eagerly waiting for CM Jagans public meeting in Tekkali.
Jagan reiterates Visakhapatnam will be administrative capital
Visakhapatnam: At an interactive session with social media influencers, Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy reiterated that the YSRC government will administrate Andhra Pradesh from Visakhapatnam. Answering numerous questions and receiving many suggestions from the influencers at a convention centre in Peddipalem area of Vizag, Jagan declared, We will transform the City of Destiny into the Destiny of AP. The social media influencers at the convention declared that they will treat any attack on CM Jagan as an attack on them, and unitedly respond with strength. One of the influencers, a professor, went on to compare Jagan Mohan Reddy with Abraham Lincoln, announcing that Jagan's life has inspired her. The convention had been organised as part of the Chief Ministers Memanta Siddham Yatra that is passing through North Andhra. Jagan directed the YSRC social media wing to create an app on which all attacks on YSRC social media representatives and cadres can be reported. The CM said arrangements are being made to provide the necessary assistance to those attacked. Jagan Mohan Reddy declared that God wants him to write a big script for Andhra Pradesh, which is why all attacks of the opposition on him are failing. We are fighting a war of conspiracies, lies and frauds launched against us by the opposition alliance under the leadership of Chandrababu. Yet, it is clear that YSRC will win all assembly and Lok Sabha seats, because God and people are with YSRC, the Chief Minister stated. He observed that Geetanjali's suicide following online trolling by opposition social media groups after she praised the Chief Ministers welfare schemes is an example of Telugu Desam's low-level politics. Geetanjali's husband Balachandra expressed his support to Jagan Mohan Reddy at the convention. The CM assured Balachandra that he would stand by him for lifetime. A social media influencer suggested that the YSRC manifesto include loan waiver for farmers, so that the party wins all assembly and Lok Sabha seats in AP.
Centre stopped privatisation of Visakhapatnam Steel plant: BJP leader CM Ramesh - TheNewsMill
Centre stopped privatisation of Visakhapatnam Steel plant: BJP leader CM Ramesh TheNewsMill
Andhra CM interacts with YSRCP social media influencers in Visakhapatnam
The News Mill
Woman Hospitalized After Alleged Domestic Abuse and Suicide Attempt
Visakhapatnam: A woman from Tota Guru in Gandhinagar, identified as Mamata, is currently receiving treatment at Arilova VIMS Hospital after attempting suicide by consuming insecticide. The incident, reported to the Arilova Police Station, has brought to light allegations of domestic abuse by her husband, Bhandari Santhosh, and extended family members. According to reports, Santhosh, who is employed in catering, along with his sister Mahalakshmi, brother-in-law Ramana, daughter-in-law Pavani, and Pavani's husband Naveen, allegedly subjected Mamata to abuse. The details of the abuse have not been disclosed by the police at this time. The Arilova Police have registered a case and are investigating the allegations.
Vote Out YSRC, Naidu Tells People in SKL
Visakhapatnam: Telugu Desam chief Nara Chandrababu Naidu has appealed to the people to vote out the YSRC and end the draconian rule in the state. Addressing the Raa Kadali Raa' election meeting in Pathapatnam in Srikakulam district on Tuesday, Naidu said Jagan Mohan Reddy had asked for one chance to rule, and this should be his last chance too. Politics is not new to me. The state went out of track and there is the need to bring back normalcy here, Naidu told the crowd. He said power tariff has increased manifold and in the name of prohibition, the YSRC government began selling cheap and adulterated liquor that affcted the lives of the poor people. Stating that ganja smuggling has increased in AP in the last five years, Naidu said after forming the next government, he would deal with the drugs with an iron hand. Whoever sells ganja would be dealt firmly, Naidu warned. Recalling the contribution of the TD, the former chief minister said women universities were started by him in AP so as to increase the literacy rate among the women and it was TD which gave opportunities to women in politics. Earlier, he addressed a womens meeting in Bondapalli in Vizianagaram district and interacted with women by answering their questions on various issues and explaining to them the plans the TD has after forming the next government. Naidu promised to establish one mandal parishad school for every km, one zilla parishad high school for every three km, and one junior college for every 10 km for girl child education. He also pledged to provide interest-free loans up to Rs10 lakh and 11 types of free medical examinations for women. The TD chief also promised to provide free travel facility for women in RTC, free cooking gas to 60 lakh people, baby kits to newborn babies etc. He also announced a special programme to make every woman a millionaire and promised to build roads under the PPP system to collect tax.
Political foes turn friends in changed political scenario
Visakhapatnam district medical and health department has launched a special drive to check the fire safety compliance by various hospitals, nursing homes, clinics and laboratories in the port city. (Image:Facebook) Visakhapatnam district medical and health department has launched a special drive to check the fire safety compliance by various hospitals, nursing homes, clinics and laboratories in the port city. (Image:Facebook) Visakhapatnam: In a surprising twist, political adversaries of the 2019 elections have transformed themselves into prominent campaigners for their previous rivals, in the 2024 elections. In five years, the political landscape in the region has undergone a seismic shift. Leaders across party lines now lend support to each other amid the emergence of new alliances and the exclusion of certain leaders from contest under the YSRC banner. In the Visakhapatnam North constituency, leaders like Ganta Srinivas Rao (Telugu Desam), Kammula Kannapa Raju (YSRC), Vishnu Kumar Raju (BJP), and Pasupuleti Usha Kiran (Jana Sena) were fierce rivals in 2019. However, the 2024 elections saw unexpected alliances, with KK Raju contesting from the YSRC and Vishnu Kumar Raju from the TD-JS-BJP alliance. Notably, Usha Kiran, who once opposed Vishnu Kumar Raju, is now actively campaigning for him. Likewise, in Gajuwaka constituency, erstwhile opponents like Tippala Nagi Reddy (YSRC), Palla Srinivas Rao (Telugu Desam) and Pawan Kalyan (Jana Sena) have seen a reversal of roles. Palla Srinivas Rao, who previously mocked Pawan Kalyan, now supports the alliance, indirectly endorsing the super star. In the Visakhapatnam South, the dynamics have shifted as well. Former rivals Vasupalli Ganesh Kumar (TD), Dronam Raju Srinivas Rao (YSRC) and Gampala Giridhar (JS) find themselves in altered positions. Ganesh Kumar now contests from the YSRC, with Vamsi Krishna Yadav, once an ally, now turning opponent. Giridhar, who once trolled both leaders, now joined the YSRC. Similarly, in Bheemili constituency, Muttamsetti Srinivas Rao (YSRC), Sabbam Hari (TD) and Panchakarla Nag Sandeep (JS) have experienced a role reversal. Srinivas Rao now represents YSRC, with Ganta Srinivas Rao (TD) and Panchakarla Nag Sandeep (Janasena) backing him. In Elamanchilli constituency, UVR Raju (YSRC), Panchakara Ramesh Babu (TD), and Sundarapu Vijay Kumar (JS) have undergone a similar transformation. Raju now stands for the YSRC, while Vijay Kumar and Ramesh Babu have aligned with the Jana Sena. This new trend of political rivals becoming campaigners for each other has made the 2024 elections in the region as exciting as an IPL match.
Chandrababu Is 420 and Cheat: Jagan
Visakhapatnam: Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has criticised the governance of N. Chandrababu Naidu by saying that the TD chief had acted in fraudulent ways while as CM. Addressing a public meeting in Vizianagarams Chelluru, Jagan Mohan Reddy called the TD chief a 420 and a cheat. The Chief Minister spoke about his dedication towards realising the common people's dreams through various government schemes. He interacted with women voters and reassured them of his dedication to fulfil their aspirations. He said, You dreamed of a better future. To realise this, I introduced schemes. I am ready to fight with the Kauravas to improve your children's future by continuing the schemes I started in the last five years. Are you ready to make me win this poll? During the meeting, Jagan Mohan Reddy said he doesn't need the alliances adopted son and yellow media, like Chandrababu, to win the polls. I have the support of the people. He claimed having spent more than `3 lakh crore on welfare schemes during the last five years. He attacked Chandrababu by saying, Chandrababu Naidu is trying to defeat Jagan; Jagan is trying to make poor people victorious by continuing the welfare schemes. This election is a Kurukshetra war in which I am fighting alone with the support of the poor people who are my star campaigners. All of you should get ready to teach a lesson to Chandrababu's alliance. His job is only to cheat the poor people. If someone steals, you call them a thief; if someone threatens to kill, you call them a decoy; if someone says sweet words, makes unachievable promises in elections, forms the government, and cheats you, what do you say? Arent you calling them 420s? The CM also assured the volunteers that they would return to their jobs once the YSRC formed the next government. As Vizianagaram district is Kapu-dominated, the CM narrated the benefits he provided to Kapus. At the end of his speech, the CM introduced the YSRCs Assembly and Lok Sabha candidates to the public and urged them to vote for them. When he introduced Botsa Satyanarayana, he stated, Botsa Anna is like my father, but I call him Anna. Listening to the CMs words, Botsa got a bit emotional.
Opposition Leaders File Their Nominations
Visakhapatnam : Vishnu Kumar Raju from the TD-JS-BJP alliance submitted his nominations for the Visakhapatnam North constituency on Tuesday. Instead of joining a bike rally organised by the alliance leaders, Raju chose to walk from his office in the North constituency to the MRO office, accompanied by GVL Narasimha Rao and alliance partners M Bharat and Usha Kiran. The rally was notable for the large presence of women in traditional dresses. In the 2014 elections, he had declared his assets at Rs.19 crore and liabilities of 1 crore. By 2019, his assets grew to Rs.32 crore, while his liabilities were at Rs.3 crore for 2019 elections. This time, his immovable assets alone were valued at Rs.91,69,04,950, while his spouse possessed assets of over Rs.10 crore. His total assets now stand at Rs.2,90,15,028, with his spouses assets at Rs.1,49,67,657. Independent candidate M. Suresh, a physically disabled, filed his nominations at the collectorate for the Visakhapatnam East. Suresh said there were around 2.5 million people with disabilities across the state, but the government has not implemented the 2016 law that offered them support. I stand up for the rights of the disabled. In addition, Congress assembly candidate GVVS Kamalakar Rao filed his nominations for the North constituency. Rao said he would fly the Congress flag in the North constituency and dedicate his victory to YS Sharmila. He pledged to work hard for development of North Andhra. Fourteen candidates filed their nominations for six assembly seats in the Anakapalli constituency. Jagata Srinivasa Rao (Indian National Congress) filed the nominations from Chodavaram, while Bandaru Satyanarayana Murthy (TD) did so from Madugu. Kanishetti Suresh Babu (Jai Bharat National Party), Daran Rama Gangadhara Rao (Indian National Congress), Avinash Daran (Indian National Congress), VV Ramachandra Rao (Independent) and Polamarashetty Ambikadevi also filed their nominations. Two candidates each from Elamanchili, Ravikumar Sundarapu (Jana Sena) and Tanaka Ananta Rama Narsinga Rao (Indian National Congress), and three candidates from Narsipatnam -- Bayapureddy Bhadrachalam (Independent), Umashankar Ganesh Petla (YSRC) and Kalavathi Petla (YSRC) -- have filed their nominations.
Andhra Pradesh CM Jagan Unveils Welfare Agenda, Solicits Renewed Mandate
Andhra Pradesh CM Jagan Unveils Welfare Agenda, Solicits Renewed Mandate YSRCP chief and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy on Tuesday said the people of the state have his 'schemes to fulfil their aspirations.' The YSRCP chief was speaking at Vizianagaram in the eponymous district during a public meeting as part of his 'Memanta Siddham' (we are all ready) election campaign bus tour. ''To fulfil your dreams you have Jagan's schemes in Andhra Pradesh,'' Reddy said, adding the YSRCP government has implemented over 40 schemes 'by understanding the dreams of the poor'. According to him, the forthcoming polls are not only for electing MPs and MLAs but also protecting the welfare schemes benefiting 'every' household in the state for the next five years, including continuing doorstep delivery of government services. He recalled several welfare schemes implemented in the past five years and also highlighted the work done to improve education, among others. Earlier today, Reddy met with Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd) employee union leaders and assured the support of the ruling party against its privatisation. He reminded them that the state government had passed a resolution in the Assembly opposing the steel plant's privatisation. Reddy has embarked on an election campaign bus tour from Idupulupaya in Kadapa district to Icchapuram in Srikakulam district.
Two youth die after being hit by ambulance in Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam businessman defrauded of 1.30 crore by cybercriminals
Cyber police officials recover 86 lakh in a swift action
He expresses confidence that he will win with a majority of over 50,000 votes
31 new SEZ unit proposals have been approved, and nine of them were from Andhra Pradesh and 22 from Telangana
Visakhapatnam will be destiny of Andhra Pradesh: CM Jagan
Visakhapatnam: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy said on Tuesday that Visakhapatnam will be the destiny of the state and compete with cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai. The IT sector is developing rapidly in the city, among others. If the Chief Minister functions out of Visakhapatnam, the city will directly compete 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 .
The Chief Minister reiterates his governments resolve to make Visakhapatnam the Executive Capital and promises to develop the IT sector in the city on par with Chennai and Bengaluru
Visakhapatnam Will Be Destiny Of Andhra Pradesh: Jagan Mohan Reddy
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy said on Tuesday that Visakhapatnam will be the destiny of the ...
Nara Lokeshs co-brother files nomination for Visakhapatnam LS seat under TDP alliance
The News Mill
Sacred Heart Public School holds programme
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Apr 22: Sacred Heart Public School (SHPS) in collaboration with Visakhapatnam-based Tarakeshwara Foundation and in-house Jammu Music Academy organized Hindustani Tabla concert which was led by senior artiste Neeraj Verma and his disciples from Jammu. Manipuri dance performance was also performed by Priyanka Talukdar from Kolkata in the programme. Former Director of All India Radio and the erstwhile Radio Kashmir Jammu, Vijay Sambyal, popularly known as Rangeeley Thakur was the chief guest on the occasion. Major Yuvaraj, [] The post Sacred Heart Public School holds programme appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Alliance will grab power in AP: Naidu
Kakinada/Visakhapatnam: Telugu Desam chief Nara Chandrababu Naidu has said the three-party alliance will come to power in AP and the elections were a mere formality. Addressing an election meeting in Jaggampeta in Kakinada district on Monday, Naidu said peoples urge for a change was visible all over the state. This would culminate into a wave and wash away the YSRC from power, he said. He said no one had messed up with him in his four-decades political career but Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy dared to do so and he will pay a price for it. I was a victim of Jagan Mohan Reddy along with Pawan Kalyan, Megastar Chiranjeevi, Bahubali director Rajamouli, actor Prabhas and others. He said Jagan Mohan Reddy was suffering from delusions of grandeur and, as a megalomaniac, he thinks he is greater than God. Power in such a man's hands is like a stone in a mad mans hand. He may throw it in any direction and he may even use it to injure himself. Therefore, one should be scared of him. Jagans state of mind can be gauged from the fact that he had called film stars like Mega Star Chiranjeevi, Cine hero Prabhas, Bahubali director Rajamouli and others to his residence and insulted them. Condemning the ongoing atrocities in the state, Naidu said that a woman by name K. Lakshmi from Guntur, a human rights activist, staged an agitation in New Delhi to bring the atrocities of Jagan Mohan Reddy to the notice of the Prime Minister, President and Chief Justice, by cutting her thumb. In S Kota in Vizianagaram, Naidu claimed that slogans of Jagan should go are being heard all over the state. I have seen many cyclones. But this cyclone on May 13 will wash away the YSRC and dump it in the Bay of Bengal, he said. Alleging that there was no law and order in the state, he said AP became a hub for drug smuggling, cheap liquor and land grabbing. After coming to power, the 3-party alliance would provide three cooking gas cylinders free, free bus travel for women and an unemployment stipend of ` 3,000, the TD chief promised the people.
Visakhapatnam Celebrates Historic All Women Indian Navy Expedition
Visakhapatnam: Indian Navy vessel Tarini, with its triumphant return to Goa on Sunday, marked the successful conclusion of a historic two-month transoceanic expedition. Lieutenant Commanders Dilna K. and Roopa A., the first all-woman, double-handed crew from India to achieve this feat, were met with hero's welcomes upon their return. The journey began on February 28, when the renowned circumnavigator Commander Abhilash Tomy (Retd.) flagged off the INSV Tarini from Goa. After skillfully navigating the vast Indian Ocean for 22 days, they reached Port Louis, Mauritius, on March 21. Their accomplishment was celebrated with a series of events, including interactions with Mauritian government officials and the Indian High Commission. Highlighting the spirit of international cooperation, the vessel also conducted a training sortie with Mauritian Coast Guard personnel, strengthening ties between the two maritime nations. With this success under their belts, Lieutenant Commanders Dilna and Roopa now set their sights on an even greater challenge Sagar Parikrama- IV, a global circumnavigation expedition scheduled for September this year aboard the INSV Tarini.
Patrudu Brothers trade barbs at Maridimamba Ammavari Fair
Visakhapatnam: The simmering feud between former minister Ayyanna Patrudu and his younger brother YSRC leader Sanyasi Patrudu erupted in a fresh round of accusations and insults at the Maridimamba Ammavari fair in Narsipatnam on Monday. The public spectacle caused significant distress among family members. The situation turned ugly when a heated argument broke out between the brothers. Sanyasi Patrudu launched a scathing attack, threatening to expose a secret from Ayyanna's past. He dared his elder brother to secure another ministerial post for their son Ganesh, claiming that only Ganesh's victory would bring him satisfaction and leave Ayyanna humiliated. Sanyasi however made a chilling statement, declaring that while he craved his brother's political downfall, he wouldn't abandon the family if Ayyanna passed away. He even threatened to take their family disputes to the public forum. Ayyanna Patrudu, however, was not about to back down. He countered by accusing Sanyasi of stealing public-funded jewellery belonging to the temple deity. Sanyasi vehemently denied the allegation, claiming he had rightfully handed over the jewellery to endowment department officials. He further demanded Ayyanna return a temple donation of Rs 6 lakh to the authorities.
Congress releases final list with 28 names for AP polls
Vijayawada: The AICC on Monday announced the final list of candidates for AP elections, with 38 names for the Assembly seats. AICC general secretary K.C. Venugopal said the central election committee finalised these names. Additionally, the AICC changed the party candidates in 10 Assembly constituencies. With this, so far the Congress nominated 142 candidates for the Assembly. The party is in a poll alliance with the CPI and CPM. Out of the total 175 Assembly constituencies, the CPI and CPM are contesting in 16 and the Congress the remaining seats. Srikakulam, Visakhapatnam North, Vijayawada East, Ongole, Kadapa, Srisailam and Hindupur seats are the prominent constituencies. The Congress replaced candidate Padi Nagabushan Rao with Ambati Krishna Rao for Srikakulam. For Gajapathinagaram, Dola Srinivas would replace the previous nominee Gadapu Kurminaidu. Maripi Vidyasagar has been named for Bobbili. The others are Nellimarla - Saragada Ramesh Kumar; Visakhapatnam North - Lakkaraju Rama Rao; Chodavaram - Jagath Srinivas; Elamanchili - Tar Narsing Rao; P Gannavaram (SC) - Kondeti Chittibabu, Achanta - Nekkanti Venkata Satyanarayana; Vijayawada East - Sunkara Padmasree and Jaggayyapet - Karnati Appa Rao. The Congress also chose Manichala Sushil Raja in place of Cilaka Vijay Kumar for the Tadikonda (SC) Assembly constituency. Other Congress candidates: Repalli - Mopidevi Srinivasa Rao; Tenali - Sk Basheer; Guntur West - Dr Rachakonda John Babu; Chirala - Amanchi Krishna Mohan; Ongole -Turakapalli Naga Lakshmi (who replaces Butti Ramesh Babu); Kanigiri - Devarapalli Subba Reddy (replaces Kadiri Bhavani); Kavali - Podalakuru Kalyan; Kovur - Narapareddy Kirankumar Reddy (replaces N. Mohan); Sarvepalli P.V. Srikanth Reddy (replaces Poola Chandrasekhar); Gudur (SC) - Dr U. Ramakrishna Rao (replaces Vemayya Chillakkuri); Sullurpet (SC) - Chandanamudi Shiva (replaces Gadi Tilak Babu); and Venkatagiri - Panta Srinivasulu. Kadapa - Tumman Kalyal Aszal Alikhan; Pulivendula - Mulam Reddy Dhruva Kumar Reddy; Jammalamadugu - Brahmananda Reddy Pamula; Proddutur-Shaik Poola Mohammed Nazeer; Mydukur - Gundlakunta Sriramulu; Allagadda - Baragodla Hussain; Srisailam - Asar Syed Ismail; Banaganapalle - Gutam Pullaiah; Dhone - Garlapati Madhuleti Swami; Adoni - Golla Ramesh; Aluru - Naveen Kishor Arakatla; Kalyandurg P. Rambhupal Reddy; Hindupur - Mohammad Hussain Inayathulla (replaces V. Nagaraju); and Dharmavaram - Rangana Aswardha Narayana.
Crorepati candidates galore in Telugu states
Hyderabad: The Telugu states are seeing a surge in crorepati candidates vying to contest as MPs in both states and MLAs in the AP state polls. The richest candidate among them, so far, is Chevella BJP Lok Sabha candidate Konda Vishweshwar Reddy, who declared worth Rs 4,566 crore approximately. According to his election affidavit, Vishweshwar Reddy's wife K. Sangita Reddy is richer than him. Incidentally, some candidates who filed their affidavits on Monday declared assets of less than Rs 3 crore. Vishweshwar Reddy did bachelor's in electrical engineering from University of Madras, at Guindy in Chennai and MS Electrical Engineering from NJIT, New Jersey, US. According to an affidavit submitted to the returning officer (RO) on Monday, Vishweshwar Reddy listed Rs 1,178.72 crore properties, and those of Sangita Reddy at Rs 3,203.90 crore. Their son K. Viraj Madhav Reddy has assets worth Rs 107 crore, the affidavit said. Vishweshwar Reddy also has liabilities worth Rs 12.06 crore. In Andhra Pradesh, Narayana Ponguru, a Telugu Desam candidate from Nellore, declared properties worth Rs 806 crore. While Narayana listed assets worth Rs 214 crore, he said his wife Ramadevi Ponguru had assets worth Rs 592 crore. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy filed nominations from Pulivendula of Kadapa district and listed properties of Rs 700 crore. While his properties are worth Rs 535 crore, his wife Bharathi Reddy possesses assets worth Rs 165 crore according to the affidavit. YSRC Visakhapatnam Lok Sabha candidate Botsa Jhansi Laksmi said she owned assets of Rs 22 crore, Rs 11 crore for herself and her husband Botsa Satyanarayana. Malkajgiri Congress Lok Sabha candidate Patnam Suneetha Reddy declared properties worth Rs 2 crore in her election affidavit. She has liabilities a Rs 2.50 crore. Suneetha Reddy said she had passed Class 10 in 1990. Warangal Congress party Lok Sabha candidate Dr Kadiam Kavya, completed her MD (Pathology) from Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad, in 2013. Dr Kavya declared assets worth Rs 2.47 crore.
YSRC Women Confront Prominent Leaders of NDA Alliance
Visakhapatnam: Several prominent women from the YSRC have stepped forward to challenge top leaders of the NDA alliance in the present elections. From Pithapuram constituency, YSRC stalwart Vanga Geeta has thrown down the gauntlet against her formidable opponent, Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan. She started her political journey with the Telugu Desam in 1993. She was with TD till 2009 and later joined the Praja Rajyam. She won the 2009 Assembly election from Pithapuram. When Praja Rajyam merged with the Congress, she joined the YSRC in 2019 and become MP from Pithapuram. In Mangalagiri constituency, Murugudu Lavanya under the YSRC's banner is taking on TD leader Nara Lokesh. Alla Ramakrishna Reddy won the Mangalagiri seat in 2014 and 2019. Lavanya aims to shift the political dynamics in Mangalgiri, where Nara Lokesh faced defeat in the previous elections. In Hindupur, YSRC leader Deepika is set to contest against Nandamuri Balakrishna, a two- time winner in 2014 and 2019, while in Ichchapuram, Piriya Vijaya braces for a tough fight against TD's Ashok Bendalam. The battleground extends to Pathapatnam, where YSRC's Shaanti Reddy, MLA, faces off against TD leader Mammidi Govinda Rao. In Gopalapuram (SC), Taneti Vanita aims to defend her position against TD leader Maddipati Venkata Raju, showcasing her resilience after defecting from TD to YSRC. In Nagari constituency, R.K. Roja, a two-time winner, confronts Gali Bhanu Prakash. In Polavaram (ST), Tellam Rajyalakshmi takes on Chirri Balaraju. In Guntur East, Shaik Noori Fatima challenges Mohammad Nazeer and in GD Nellore (Sc), Kalathur Krupalakshmi stands against TD's V.M. Thomas. In Pattikonda, Kangati Sreedevi fights against K.E. Shyam Kumar. The elections in AP this time promise a fierce battle between the YSRCs women candidates and the 3-party alliance, with each candidate vying to redefine the state's political landscape.
Adani ports indifference could permanently damage Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, says INTUC leader
He urges the Union and the State governments to take a quick decision on the issue
In Rest, Jagan Finetunes YSRC Manifesto, More Promises Likely
Visakhapatnam: Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy gave a break to his Memantha Siddham bus yatra and held discussions with senior leaders on the partys election strategies and manifesto here on Monday. The CM spent the day at his campsite in Madhurawada giving finishing touches to the election manifesto that he might release on April 26 or April 27. He would file his nominations at Kadapa on April 25. Among those present were education minister Botsa Satyanarayana and regional coordinator Y.V. Subba Reddy. The other senior leaders interacted with him online and gave their inputs. The Chief Minister is aiming to add some more welfare schemes to the manifestos list of promises to the voters. These would be aimed at the lower segments of the society. One such promise is likely to be subsidised cooking gas cylinders apart from further streamlining of the health services. In the last elections, the Navaratnas figured in the manifesto and the YSRC government successfully implemented almost all of these promises in the last five years. In addition to these, some more promises that Jagan Mohan Reddy made as CM during his course of rule were also fulfilled, a senior leader said. The manifesto will address the basic requirements of the people, said regional coordinator and Rajya Sabha member Y.V. Subba Reddy. Talking to the media, Subba Reddy said the YSRC would seek votes based on the services and the welfare schemes delivered to the people so far. After the Memantha Siddham bus yatra, the final campaigning would be organised in North Andhra. The CM would address public meetings in 15 Assembly constituencies in this final phase of the campaigning, he said. On Tuesday, the Chief Minister would resume his bus yatra from the Cricket Stadium at Madhurawada and reach Anandapuram junction where he will hold a meeting with social media hands. He will move to Jonnada in Vizianagaram district passing Tagarapuvalasa and have his lunch at Jonnada. Jagan Mohan Reddy will address a public meeting at Chelluru village and pass through Chintalavalasa, Bhogapuram and Ranasthalam and reach Akkivalasa, where he would rest for the night.
Visakhapatnam Lok Sabha candidates from TDP and YSRCP file nominations with massive rallies
Anakapalli MP candidate from the YSRCP Budi Mutyala Naidu and Payakaraopeta Assembly constituency MLA candidate from TDP V. Anitha also file nominations
Visakhapatnam Steel Plant CMD seeks public support for resolving coking coal and limestone crisis
Your timely intervention in this matter is paramount to ensuring the uninterrupted and safe operations of RINL, safeguarding jobs and sustaining economic growth in our region
Visakhapatnam Steel Plant CMD seeks public support for resolving coking coal and limestone crisis The Hindu
Three women among six Maoists from Chhattisgarh surrender in Andhra Pradesh
Involved in ambushes on security forces, exchanges of fire and attacks on police camps, the surrendered Maoists carry rewards, says Visakhapatnam Range DIG Vishal Gunni
Vizag's Bullayya College makes MoU with L&T EduTech
Dr. Lankapalli Bullayya College of Engineering, Visakhapatnam, has partnered with L&T EduTech to launch the college connect program and employability skilling program for engineering students. Aimed at bridging the gap between academia and industry, these initiatives focus on enhancing students' technical and soft skills. The MoU signing event saw the presence of key figures from both institutions, emphasizing the importance of practical learning and industry collaboration for student success and career readiness.
Parvthipuram Manyam tops in SSC, second time
Visakhapatnam: Parvathipuram Manyam district stood first in SSC examination in the State for the second consecutive year this year. The results were announced on Monday. The Manyam District stood first in the state with the highest 96.37 percentage. Last year the district topped with 87.47 percent. As many as 4,861 boys and 5203 girls totalling 10,064 students passed the examination. Of them, 8,955 students secured first division, 854 second division and 255 secured third division. Many schools excelled in the exams due to the efforts of the district administration. Ms KV Gowthami of TRM School stood first in the district with 591 marks. Initiation of My school My pride programme by district collector Nishant Kumar has yielded good results. Under My School My Pride programme, adoption officers were appointed to every high school to supervise the education levels of 9th and 10th classes. Nishant Kumar himself adopted DVM Municipal High school of Parvathipuram. He taught during his visits with focus on mathematics and also tested reading skills of the students. Project Officers of Seethampeta ITDA Kalpana Kumari and Parvthipuram ITDA C Vishnu Charan also visited schools as adoption officers. All the district officers functioned as adoption officers and visited schools at least twice a week and encouraged the students. District Collector Nishant Kumar expressed his happiness over achieving first position in the state for the second time. I am feeling as if I have got 1st rank in SSC. It is a moment of job satisfaction, he said. It was a collective effort of students, teachers and adoption officers, he added. District Educational Officer Gara Pagadalamma and other officers congratulated the Collector on achieving the results.
6 Maoists surrender before police in Visakhapatnam
Andhra Pradesh: Half a dozen CPI (Maoist) underground cadre (UG) cadres including three women of South Bastar Divisional Committee (SBTDVC) and Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee (DKSZC) surrendered before Visakhapatnam Range DIG Vishal Gunni and Alluri Sitaramaraju district Superintendent of Police Tuhin Sinha on Monday. The surrendered Maoists include Khuram Mithilesh alias Raju, 37, a Divisional Committee Member and Secretary of Kistaram, Barse Masa, 30, an Area Committee Member (ACM) of Kistaram, Vetti Bheema alias Raju, 32, an ACM of Konta, Vanajm Rame alias Kamala, 28, an ACM of Janthan Sarkar, Kistaram, and Madakam Sukki, 27, and Dudi Sony, 23, both Party Members of Kistaram. Presenting the surrendered Maoists before the media, Vishal Gunni said the reasons behind surrender of Maoist cadres were lack of support from locals and party activities were confined to small areas in Andhra Pradesh (AP) and Chhattisgarh (CG) borders. Another reason for surrendering was ensuring government schemes and development works to locals in remote core areas in AP-CG borders apart from attractive surrender and rehabilitation policy of AP government. Discrimination of top cadres towards local Adivasi cadres and locals was also one more reason. Explaining the impact of surrenders on Maoist party, he said village and pocket level committees (RPCs Militia committees) will become weak and defunct and the Lok Sabha elections would be conducted in a peaceful manner. It would also cause impact on most cadres operating in Kistaram, Konta and Andhra Odisha Border (AOB) formations to come forward to surrender and give more scope to open up the core areas in Maoist affected regions with developmental activities and implementation of government schemes.
In Visakhapatnam, This Man Sells Palm Wine Singing Songs For Customers
A kallu-selling vendor in Bheemunipatnam sits under the palm tree along with his wife and sells the drink in the Bisleri bottle and other containers.
In Visakhapatnam, This Man Teaches Skating To Children For Just Rs 1,000
The Visakhapatnam coach said that currently, more than 100 students are undergoing training on this ground.
A cohort of contenders under the age of 40 emerges as potential candidates of YSRC and tripartite alliance. If elected, it remains to be seen whether these candidates will champion the cause of the younger generation. Potential approaches to address issues such as unemployment and education could involve creating more job opportunities, improving access to education, and implementing skill development programmes tailored to the needs of youth. Vidadala Rajini (33) The Minister for Health is contesting from Guntur West Assembly seat. Initially with the TDP, she later joined the YSRC after failing to secure a ticket. She won her first election in 2019, defeating the TDPs Prathipati Pulla Rao with a margin of 8,301 votes from Chilakaluripet. As part of YSRCs Mission 175, she has been shifted to Guntur West segment to overcome anti-incumbency. Mathukumilli Sribharat (34) A Stanford University alumnus and the president of GITAM (Deemed to be University) entered politics in 2019 contesting from Visakhapatnam Lok Sabha constituency on TDP ticket. Grandson of former MP and educationist MVVS Murthy, founder of GITAM educational institutions, he narrowly lost the election against YSRCs MVV Satyanarayana in the last parliamentary elections. Annamreddy Adeep Raj (39) Born in 1985, he is the sitting YSRC MLA of Pendurthi. He won the 2019 Assembly election by defeating the TDPs Bandaru Satyanarayana Murthy. He completed his education at Gayatri Vidya Parishad College, and is engaged in business. His political journey began with the YSRC. He is contesting again from Pendurthi against Panchakarla Ramesh Babu of Jana Sena Party. YS Avinash Reddy (39) A two-time YSRC MP from Kadapa, he is cousin of Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. Kadapa has been a bastion of the YS family for over three decades. In the last election, he won against C Adinarayana Reddy of TDP with a margin of 3,80,726 votes. In the 2014 elections, he won from the Lok Sabha seat with a majority of 1,90,323 votes. He aims to achieve a hat-trick of victories from Kadapa in the elections. Annamreddy Adeep Raj (39), YS Avinash Reddy (39). Gudivada Amarnath (39) The IT and Industries Minister transitioned from the Congress to the TDP, before joining the YSRC in 2014. Elected from Anakapalle in the 2019 elections, he carries on the political legacy of his father Gudivada Gurunadha Rao, with his mother Nagamani also playing a role in their political journey. Amarnath, who won with a majority of 8,169 votes in 2019, is in the fray from Gajuwaka Nagulapalli Dhanalakshmi (37) Transitioned into politics from a teaching career, she contested as a YSRC candidate from Rampachodavaram in the 2019 elections and won, defeating TDPs Vantala Rajeswari with a majority of 39,206 votes. Now, she embarks on re-election, facing TDPs Miriyala Sirisha Devi in the ST reserved constituency. Her journey from academia to politics reflects her commitment to serve her constituents Devineni Avinash (36) He initiated his political journey as president of the USO, founded by his father Devineni Nehru, a five-time MLA, who served as a minister in NT Rama Raos cabinet. Initially with the Indian National Congress, he later joined the TDP, holding positions such as Telugu Yuvatha State president. In 2019, he unsuccessfully contested from Gudivada, but later joined the YSRC. Currently, he is in the fray from Vijayawada East segment Gudivada Amarnath (39), Mathukumilli Sribharat (34) Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu (40) The sitting Narasaraopet MP, who is also the vice-chairman of Vignan University, seeks re-election from the same segment on TDP ticket. He was elected on YSRC ticket against Rayapati Sambasiva Rao of TDP with a majority of 1,53, 978 votes. Following denial of ticket to contest from the same segment in the elections, he quit YSRC and joined TDP, which fielded him from the same seat JC Ashmit Reddy (39) Son of JC Prabhakar Reddy, he holds a postgraduate degree in MLit (Marketing) from University of St Andrews, Scotland, UK, and BE in Mechanical Engineering from Anna University, Chennai. In the 2019 elections, he unsuccessfully contested against Kethireddy Pedda Reddy of YSRC from Tadipatri. Now, he is the fray again from the same Assembly constituency on TDP ticket Nagulapalli Dhanalakshmi (37), Devineni Avinash (36)
Andhra Pradesh: Unending wait for basic amenities in hilltop villages of ASR district
VISAKHAPATNAM: Nestled amidst serene landscapes in the remote hills of Alluri Sitarama Raju district lies a community grappling with the absence of a basic necessity: a safe pathway connecting them to the world below. For the residents of Jajulabanda and Kumburla hilltop villages, even the simple act of casting their votes demands a perilous journey of 30 kilometres up and down treacherous terrain, risking accidents at every turn. Proper road connectivity emerges as the beacon of hope for this tribal community, promising solutions to their myriad challenges, including access to medical care, education, and government rations. Painting a picture of their struggle, Krishna Rao, a resident of Kumburla hilltop village, told TNIE, Our hilltop village is reachable only by a pathway up to a certain extent, after which the terrain becomes rugged and difficult. Even vehicles struggle to traverse this rough landscape. Consequently, during medical emergencies, ambulances cannot reach our village, nor is it feasible to transport patients in our vehicles. Hence, we rely on dolis (makeshift stretchers) during such critical times. Reflecting on the education front, Krishna lamented, A school and two teachers were allocated to our village, but unfortunately, the teachers are not fulfilling their duties. As a result, we have taken it upon ourselves to provide education with a teacher from our own community. However, the lack of proper facilities is resulting in children dropping out of school. Although plans for a school building and road have been approved, they have yet to materialise. The absence of reliable drinking water sources has added to the woes of tribals, as Venkata Ramana from Jajulabanda emphasised: The water we get is muddy. We use a cloth to filter the water before consuming it. Its a constant struggle. Despite their hardships, theres a glimmer of hope as road construction is underway. Vanthala Suresh from Jajubandala village said, Laying a proper road will address all our concerns. Currently, road construction is underway, primarily focusing on earthworks. Usually, road projects are left unfinished at this stage, but we remain hopeful that the construction will be swiftly completed. However, amidst their struggles, the villagers express disillusionment with political promises. They long for a leader who will not just make election pledges, but also genuinely address their basic needs. Yet, theres a sense of optimism that change may finally be on the horizon.
Vizagites turn up in large numbers to greet CM Jagan
VISAKHAPATNAM: Scores of people thronged major junctions in the City of Destiny to catch a glimpse of Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, who commenced his Memanta Siddham bus yatra from the Chinnayapalem stay point in Anakapalle district on Sunday. On day 20, his first stop was at Pinagadi Junction in Pendurthi mandal. Despite the scorching heat, locals eagerly lined up along the roads to cheer for the YSRC president. After interacting with locals from Pinagadi village, Jagan headed to Visakhapatam. The cavalcade passed through Lakshmipuram, Vepagunta Junction, Gopalapatnam, and NAD Junction. In the city limits, the roadshow passed through Kancherapalem Mettu, Akkayapalem, Maddilapalem, Venkojipalem, and Hanumantha Vaka and concluded the programme at Endada. The Chief Minister had his lunch before entering Gopalapatnam and reached Kancherapalem Mettu around 6:30 pm. Due to the massive crowd, the roadshow covered just 9.6 km in three hours. CM Jagan interacting with a specially-abled student during the rally While touring Rampuram village, the Chief Minister met specially-abled twins G Tarun Kumar and G Jeevan Kumar. Jeevan told Jagan that he secured 815 marks in the intermediate exams. The brothers expressed their aspiration to pursue higher studies and sought Jagans help. Impressed by their determination, the Chief Minister assured them complete support in their academic pursuits. I was delighted to see Jagan in person. I have personally benefited from his welfare schemes. Participating in the rally was my way of expressing gratitude for everything he has done for us, expressed Shantamma. As the yatra traversed through Uttarandhra, scores of Opposition leaders from Jana Sena and TDP joined the YSRC. Senior JSP leader Giridhar Gampala, who contested the 2019 elections from Visakhapatnam South constituency, along with other party members G Sreeja and G Dhanush joined the YSRC. Executive trustee of Shankar Foundation Krishna Kumar, former TDP district president and former UDA director D Bharti, and TDP Youth Wing leaders Charan, Sandeep, Kiranmayi and Dasu also joined the YSRC. Traffic snarls reported Several junctions and interior roads in the city reported severe traffic snarls. While the Chief Ministers cavalcade arrived at the Akkayapalem junction highway at 7:30 pm, the road leading to Akkayapalem 80-feet road from Akkayapalem highway was closed for commuters from 3:30 pm. Consequently, traffic jams occurred on interior roads connecting major junctions, while others routes experienced slow-moving traffic. The roadshow should be properly planned to avoid disrupting traffic. The Chief Ministers late entry into the city caused significant congestion at main junctions like Satyam and Akkayapalem during rush hour in the evening, affecting commuters from all walks of life. Either busy routes should be avoided or utilised during non-peak hours, a motorist stuck in the traffic jam opined.
Maoist cadres from Chhattisgarh involved in Burkapal, Bhejji ambushes surrender before Andhra cops
Andhra Pradesh police's successful operations in Chhattisgarh lead to key Maoist surrenders, boosting morale and election preparedness. Visakhapatnam
Elections in AP: CMs Memanta Siddham campaign bus traverses Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Sunday traversed Visakhapatnam as part of his Memanta Siddham (We Are All Ready) election campaign bus tour. The YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) chief started the 20th and penultimate day of his bus tour from the Pinagadi junction and passed through the port city in north 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 .
Heat Conditions in AP Continue Despite Rains
Visakhapatnam: Heat conditions are continuing in Rayalaseema and coastal Andhra Pradesh despite the light rains that lashed the state during the last 24 hours. Several locations in Rayalaseema recorded above 42C on Sunday, though many parts of the state had overcast skies but no significant rain. IMA Amaravati senior scientist Dr. S. Karuna Sagar said Kurnool and Tirupati stations recorded 42.6C, the highest temperature in the state, followed by Kadapa 42.5C, Jangamaheswarapuram 42.5C, Nandigama 42.4C, Nandyal 42.2C, Anantapur 42C, Nellore 41.7C, Gannavaram 41.6C and Amaravati 41C. People of Kurnool and a few other places in Rayalaseema experienced heatwave conditions on Sunday, while the remaining parts of the state remained hot and humid. From Monday to April 25, IMD has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds with a speed of 4050 kmph likely at isolated places over north coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam. Hot, humid, and uncomfortable weather conditions will prevail over coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema during the same period. Thundershowers accompanied by lightning lashed a few parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema region on Saturday night. People in Paderu of ASR district got relief from hot weather conditions after Paderu recorded one cm of rainfall.
Pran Pratishtha ceremony performed at temple in Visakhapatnam
Will MVV Satyanarayana break YSRCs Losing Streak in Vizag East?
Visakapatnam: The question on the minds of pollsters is whether YSRCs M.V.V. Satyanarayana will break the ruling partys losing streak in Visakhapatnam East assembly constituency. He is pitted against TDPs Velagapudi Rama Krishna, a three-time winner of the opposition party, who has a streak of not losing an election. Velagapudi has a strong grip on Visakhapatnam East. He has won from the constituency consecutively in 2009, 2014 and 2019 elections. Visakhapatnam East constituency is among the assembly seats that the Telugu Desam Party won in Visakhapatnam during the 2019 elections, when the party suffered a drubbing at the hands of YSRC in other parts of Andhra Pradesh. Ruling YSRC has tried to break its jinx in Visakhapatnam by gaining a foothold among the backward classes by giving plum posts to three leaders of the Yadava community, one of the dominant castes in the area. However, one of these three leaders Akkaramani Vijaya Nirmala, appointed Visakhapatnam Metro Region Development Authority (VMRDA) chairperson, has quit her post and YSRC and joined the Telugu Desam. Vijaya Nirmala, who is from the Yadava community, commands considerable support in Bheemli, Gajuwaka and Visakhapatnam East and South constituencies. Interestingly, Vamsi Krishna Srinivas, who had contested against TDP nominee Velagapudi Rama Krishna in the last three elections and lost, has joined the Jana Sena Party. As a member of the NDA alliance, Vamsi is supporting Velagapudi in Visakhapatnam East in the 2024 elections. YSRC candidate from Visakhapatnam East M.V.V. Satyanarayana is a film producer. He has impressive assets worth 202 crores according to the affidavit he submitted to the Election Commission in 2019 elections. He contested from the Visakhapatnam Lok Sabha constituency and won with a significant margin. Now, the Lok Sabha winner is contesting from the Visakhapatnam East assembly seat against TDPs Velagapudi, a three-time winner, who has not lost any assembly election from 2009. Visakhapatnam East constituency has total 2,89,326 voters 1,41,118 males, 1,48,187 females and 21 transgender. The question now is whether Velagapudi Rama Krishna's winning streak will continue or Satyanarayana will break ruling YSRC's losing streak in Visakhapatnam East constituency.
Blue Wave As CM Jagans Siddham Bus Yatra Course Through Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam: This coastal city has transformed into a vast ocean of blue as the YSRC party flags danced in the air and crowds filled the streets in support for Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy during his Siddham Bus Yatra on Sunday. The 20th day of the campaign journey saw the chief minister passing through the streets of Visakhapatnam, a former TD fortress, and being greeted profusely by a sea of women supporters amid others. Traditional folk dancers, dressed in vibrant hues, performed the lively Tapiddi Gullu dance, adding a new burst of energy to the atmosphere. The streets of Kancharpalem were teeming with Jagan-supporters, all clad in blue. As the CM's convoy approached, the crowd erupted in cheers and Jai Jagan chants, electrifying the atmosphere. Many youths donned masks to make their faces resembling Jagan. At the Akkayapalem Junction, a unique welcome awaited the CM. A special ritual involving 108 pumpkins and sacred water fitchers held by women symbolized respect and auspiciousness. In Hindu culture, belief is that this will remove negative energy. A massive bike rally was organised by YSRC activists to welcome the CM. Jagan Reddy graciously acknowledged the warmth he received from the public. He waved and greeted the people who swarmed his yatra route. A rally was organised in Akkayapalem, with Jagan supporters expressing their admiration by showering him with papers during the CMs roadshow. A woman, Rajya Lakshmi, who had been waiting since 3pm, shared her excitement with Deccan Chronicle, stating that she was there, waiting, to support the CM and thank him for the welfare schemes that benefited the poor like her. In view of the recent stone attack on the CM in Vijayawada, security was significantly heightened along the yatra route to protect the CM. CCTV cameras kept scanning the yatra route. Pedestrians were prohibited from standing in the middle of the road, while an additional security guard, sporting binoculars, diligently monitored the public.
Jagans Memantha Siddham Yatra in Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam: The Memantha Sidham Yatra of Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy here on Sunday was a mega hit. The streets were full with the public cheering the CM even as this was considered to be TD bastion in the past. Despite the scorching heat, locals gathered in large numbers to catch a glimpse of the chief minister, this being the 20th day of his present road yatra. It is widely noted that the CM made headway into the traditional TD strongholds. TD had won four assembly segments in the 2019 elections Visakhapatnam east, west, north, and south. The present support for the CM is seen in the backdrop of Jagan Reddys plans to establish Vizag as APs administrative capital and govern the state from here. The days bus yatra began from the Chinnayapalem stay point in Anakapalli district, with its initial stop at Pinagadi Junction in Pendurthi mandal. Locals, including children, were seen waiting patiently along the roads and waving at the CM as his convoy passed by. While at the Rampuram village, the chief minister encountered disabled twins G Tarun Kumar and G Jeevan Kumar. During their interaction, CM Jagan was impressed to learn that Jeevan Kumar had got 815 marks in the intermediate results. Both brothers expressed their aspirations for higher education and sought the CMs support. The CM nodded in agreement. The chief minister also noticed the presence of a little girl suffering from a terminal disease. The bus yatra was passing through Pendurthi assembly constituency. The girl, sitting on her father's shoulders, waved at the CM. Jagan Reddy noticed her among the sea of people and spoke to them. He directed the officials to extend all help to her and promised her medical assistance. The CM promised to help another girl too, who was mentally ill. He promised to extend pensions to both girls. During the course of his yatra on Sunday, in addition to meeting the locals and addressing their concerns, the chief minister welcomed several leaders from the Jana Sena Party and Telugu Desam Party (TD) into the YSRC fold. During the day, from Simhachalam Arch, Gopalapatnam, NAD Kottha Road, Marripalem and Kancharapalem, Railway New Colony and MVP colony, people flocked in large numbers to greet the chief minister.
