AP has shortfall of specialist doctors: CAG
Vijayawada : Andhra Pradesh has a shortfall of 743 specialist doctors and medical officers against the sanctioned posts of 3,316 in secondary healthcare, underlining the need to provide the required human resources to deliver healthcare services effectively at both primary and secondary levels. A report from the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India on Public Health Infrastructure and Management of Health Services in Andhra Pradesh for the period 2017-18 to 2021-22 highlighted major findings in a performance audit. The report states that 149 out of 608 posts in the professor cadre and 156 out of 744 posts in the associate professor cadre across 11 government medical colleges are vacant. The CAG also pointed out that trauma care centers are understaffed and require additional manpower. The report mentions that the health department is not maintaining a centralized database of sanctioned strength, staff in position, and unit-wise deployment of staff. The CAG recommends that the state government develop a Human Resource Management System to track staff deployment in real-time across all healthcare facilities. Additionally, Intensive Care Units (ICUs) are unavailable in five out of 12 district hospitals, and the equipment in existing ICUs and obstetric high-dependency units are non-functional due to a shortage of manpower, depriving critical care and life support for patients. The CAG also found near-expiry drugs worth Rs 2.14 crore distributed to healthcare facilities at three test-checked Central Drug Stores and recommended that the government ensure the timely return of near-expiry drugs to suppliers for replacement of stocks. The report further highlights the lack of provision for local purchase of drugs and medicines when the required drugs are either unavailable or out of stock in primary and secondary healthcare facilities. Additionally, there are only 175 community health centers in the state, whereas 412 are required as per Indian Public Health Standards. Regarding patient surveys, the CAG found that patients often opt for private treatment due to the shortage of equipment. It recommends that the government ensure the provision of necessary amenities and equipment to healthcare facilities. Moreover, the state government has not released its share of Rs 350.93 crore for the years 2017-22 towards various programs under the National Health Mission, the CAG noted.
The court dismissed an appeal against a 2009 Andhra Pradesh High Court judgement, which arose from a dispute over the succession of property among stepbrothers in the Kallakuri family
Savithas Remarks on Ganja Addiction Kicks Up Row in Council
Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh Legislative Council witnessed uproarious scenes on Friday over the remarks of backward classes minister S. Savitha that money transferred to women and youth of economically weaker sections by YSR Congress government had led to a section of youth and women getting addicted to ganja in the state. Following the remarks of the minister, opposition members stood up and started protesting. They demanded that Savitha apologise for her remarks. Council chairman Koyye Moshen Raju also expressed displeasure over the remarks and wanted them removed from the records. This did not satisfy the opposition members who trooped into the well of the house, demanding that the minister apologise to women for her remarks. They started continuously raising slogans Minister, down, down. Following this, the chairman adjourned the council for a brief period. When the council session resumed, Moshen Raju announced that the remarks of the minister should be removed from the records if found objectionable. Leader of opposition Botsa Satyanarayana said the ministers remarks have targeted YSR Congress and demanded that they be removed from the council records. Minister Savitha clarified that she did not utter any objectionable words. She said she had referred to a section of women and youth who had been getting addicted to ganja, as they got money under the welfare scheme, with no opportunity for self-employment. She made it clear that she did not target only women from economically backward classes. With this, the council members calmed down and the chairman proceeded with the scheduled business for the day.
CM Naidu Confident of Returning for Fifth Term
VIJAYAWADA : Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu said a vision document Swarna Andhra Pradesh 2047' is being prepared for a Wealthy, Healthy, Happy Andhra Pradesh. Addressing the AP Legislative Assembly on the last day of the current session on Friday, the AP CM said the document is being formulated with 10 principles, making 17 lakh people as partners. The main goals are poverty alleviation, inclusive growth and employment generation. Expressing confidence that he will again come back to the assembly for the fifth term as the chief minister, Chandrababu said he entered politics not for selfish ends but to do something for the people. By 2047, the nation will complete 100 years of Independence. Keeping this in view, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a vision document Viksit Bharat 2047. Likewise, we are moving ahead with SwarnaAndhra Pradesh 2047, the Chief Minister declared. He wanted all MLAs to draft a similar vision of their own for development of their respective constituencies. Pointing out that the country is the fifth largest economy in the world, Chandrababu Naidu recalled PM Modis statement that the country will develop only when the states move on the progressive path. The AP CM said the 10 principles in the vision document will include poverty eradication, employment generation, development of skilled human resources, water conservation, introducing technology in farming and Swach Andhra. He pointed out that industrial parks with global standards are already being established. He remarked that while several states have taken up caste census, Andhra Pradesh has undertaken skill census, so that its future citizens will be equipped with skills to support themselves. Chandrababu Naidu called on bureaucrats to work hard with a humanitarian perspective, while increasing the revenue of the state, as AP has suffered heavily during the past five years. He informed the assembly that white collar and blue collar jobs will soon be created throughout Andhra Pradesh. Two coastal economic zones will be established. The state will be transformed into a green energy and green hydrogen hub, he added.
Vision 2047 aimed at Swarna Andhra Pradesh: CBN - Greatandhra
Vision 2047 aimed at Swarna Andhra Pradesh: CBN Greatandhra
Azure probe found irregularities, shared details with justice department
Azure Power's internal probe, prompted by whistleblowers, uncovered employee misconduct and potential improper payments related to a solar project in Andhra Pradesh. The company shared its findings, which included evidence of data manipulation, with the US Department of Justice. Azure surrendered the project to SECI, citing the investigation, and it was later awarded to Adani Green.
'Damaging' Andhra Brand: Chandrababu Naidu promises action over Adani Group's US bribery case
Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu pledged to act on bribery allegations against the previous administration and the Adani Group. The US SEC alleges kickbacks were offered to secure a solar power deal. Naidu acknowledged the damage to the state's reputation and vowed to prevent future occurrences.
Immediate water supply to SEZ Industries sought
Visakhapatnam: The Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) has called for immediate action from the Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (APIIC) to address the severe water shortage affecting 98 pharmaceutical industries in Parvada and 200 industries in Atchutapuram. These industries have been without a consistent water supply for five days, relying on private tankers to continue operations. On Friday, G. Koteswara Rao, CITUs Anakapalle district general secretary, visited the Parvada pharmaceutical industries to assess the situation firsthand. He spoke with workers about the ongoing water shortage and inspected the site where APIIC is repairing motors that had previously undergone repairs. During the visit, Koteswara Rao criticised APIIC officials for their negligence and the irresponsible behavior of the management. He also criticized Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, saying, It is ironic that the Chief Minister invites industries to the state under the 'Ease of Doing Business' initiative, yet fails to provide basic facilities such as water supply. Koteswara Rao highlighted the severe consequences of the water shortage, including the closure of industries, layoffs, reduced production, and significant financial losses amounting to crores of rupees. He urged Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu to intervene immediately and order the repair of the three motors to restore the water supply to the affected industries. V.V. Srinivasa Rao, CITU district treasurer and Gani Shetty Satyanarayana, honorary president of the Pharmacy Staff and Workers Union, participated in the event. They echoed Koteswara Rao's demands and emphasised the urgency of the situation.
Interstate burglar apprehended in Tirupati; 6 lakh recovered
Tirupati :Tirupati police on Friday arrested an interstate burglar, identified as Guruvilla Appala Naidu (29) from Somarajupalli village in Prakasam district. The arrest comes after the theft of 8 lakh from a Western Union Money Transfer office in Tirupati on November 15. The burglary occurred in broad daylight when the office owner locked the premises and stepped out for lunch. Acting on the complaint, the Tirupati Central Crime Station police, under the direction of district SP L. Subba Rayudu and additional SP Nagabhushana Rao, launched an investigation. Following technical lead, the police apprehended the accused near Sai Nirmala Kalyana Mandapam on Friday. Police recovered 6 lakh and a screwdriver used in the crime. Appala Naidu has a history of 18 theft cases across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Commending the teams efforts, the SP announced cash rewards for the investigating officers.
Low-Pressure Area Over Bay of Bengal, IMD Warns of Heavy Rains in AP
Visakhapatnam :The upper air cyclonic circulation over the Equatorial Indian Ocean off the Sumatra coast and adjoining South Andaman Sea has moved west-northwestwards and now lies over the east Equatorial Indian Ocean and adjoining South Andaman Sea, extending up to mid-tropospheric levels. Under its influence, a low-pressure area is likely to form over southeast Bay of Bengal on Saturday. Thereafter, it is likely to continue to move west-northwestwards and intensify into a depression over central parts of the south Bay of Bengal during the subsequent two days, said IMD Amaravathi, in its forecast on Friday. The report said under the influence of the system, heavy rains are likely at isolated places over south coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema from November 26 to November 28.
KOCHI: Tangerine Rays, one of this years Grammy-nominated songs in the dance and electronic music genre, is a tangy blend of chaos and calm, bland and spice, vitality and vacancy. Sweet innocent child asleep Deep in a starless retreat I never knew what to believe in So every other dream shadows a bad memory Shaped like a darkening breeze Praying on angels still breathing Your silent touch... The lyrics echo voices that are bold yet fragile, exposing raw emotions. Among these voices is one particularly clear and sensitive, resonating with pride for Keralites. Gayathri Karunakar Menon, a 25-year-old Thrissur native, is part of the team behind two songs in German music producer Zedds Telos, which has been nominated for Album of the Year at the 67th Grammy Awards. This voice that you claim is clear grew along with me and urged me to seek answers, says Gayathri, now has been working with the Universal Music group in the US since 2022. By the time I entered high school, I wanted space and answers which the social and educational system were reluctant to provide. I sought answers, I explored, and my music is a result of that journey. Her journey into music began early. Much like other NRI children, Gayathri, who grew up in Qatar, underwent rigorous Carnatic music training under Vaikom Jayachandran and playback singer Pushpavathy. She also studied classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, and Kuchipudi at her parents arts facility in Qatar. Singing Malayalam songs alongside her father introduced her to another realm of musical expression. I read a lot, especially the classics, Gayathri recalls. Our home shelves were filled with abridged versions of Moby Dick, Great Expectations, and Oliver Twist. Orwell and others also shaped my thinking. Writing began as prose and gradually turned into verse. I realised this form of creative expression made me feel more authentic and free, compared to focusing purely on the technicalities of music. Her journey took a transformative turn when she left Birla Public School in Doha after Class 10. She did Classes 11 and 12 at spiritual guru Sri Ms Peepal Grove School in Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh. There, liberty and curiosity were encouraged. My interest in music deepened, and I felt my writing take root, says Gayathri. Around the same time, I attended Berklee College of Musics five-week summer programme and earned a scholarship in 2017 to study songwriting, contemporary writing and production. The graduation programme taught me to structure music with intent. Writing from the heart At Berklee, Gayathri explored the intricate relationship between words, chords, and tunes. The questions arose again in her mind: What makes a good song? Beautiful poetry? Memorable melody? Or, the way they are musically conveyed? She realised that the inner voice, which spoke free of fetters, mattered the most. She repents discontinuing piano lessons in childhood. The knowledge of the chords could have come in handy in musically expressing the inner voice, says Gayathri. Maybe sometime in the future, I would make room in my life for it. Now hailed as a rare talent by American music producer Rodney Darchild Jerkins, who has worked with the likes of Michael Jackson, Gayathri has had the opportunity to collaborate with international musicians. Writing [songs] as a team is like a jam session. Different minds bring different worlds together, and the final result is an amalgamation of these worlds, she says. Her Grammy-nominated work came from such a collaboration with Zedd, Ava Bringol, Bea Miller, Ellis Robert, McKay Lawrie, and George Ku. As a professional songwriter now, she is expected to create a song in about seven hours, a stark contrast to her student days when she had the luxury of waiting for creative sparks. There is a practised vulnerability now which helps us write fast this way. But in the long run, it could get jaded, she reflects. To navigate this, she has found her own way: there are songs she writes for clients and personal ones that emerge from her innards. Both demand her full commitment. Yet the ones I write for myself do not have any urge, and hence the honesty is more placid, says Gayathri. I have written around nine songs and hope to bring out an album of my own works in a year or two. Struggle till a point This journey has not been a cakewalk. This is an industry where critical success does not necessarily translate to financial stability, she says. Streaming has made it all the more difficult. Earlier, albums were more resourceful. Now, it is a struggle till a point. Gayathris talent has already been recognised, such as when her song Privileged to Dream, which addresses the lives of expatriates, won the 2020 Songs of Social Change contest held by the Berklee College of Music. She was also nominated in the global music category at the Grammys last year as a vocal collaborator in the album Shuruaat by the Berklee Indian Ensemble. But, accolades alone cannot fully encapsulate an artists talent. It could also be that it cannot be only that, she remarks. Gayathris ambitions in songwriting and singing currently do not include projects in India. However, she is drawn to the art and craft of Malayalam filmmaking, which she hopes to utilise in enhancing the visual poetry of her works. Her Indianness continues to subtly influence her work. I was raised in that, and it will be so. Your history need not be your future, but it sure will have flashes of it, she says. However, she consciously avoids exploiting her cultural background. It is more of an ethical thing for me. The culture has a history of trauma, of our grandparents fighting for causes and losing it, giving it their all, she says. Using that culture to reap benefits would not be respectful for me. Something that the lessons in my grooming years taught me was to maintain that respect. I left home at 15 This sense of respect and discipline has also kept her away from social media. I desist from putting up my work. There has to be discretion; everything about me need not be up there, she says. The solitude she feels as she navigates her work and passion is, paradoxically, what fuels her creativity. There are many facets to me. And each is good in its own place. Not all needs to be brought out, Gayathri says. Her parents, Karunakar Menon (a business manager, singer, and sports analyst) and her mother Indu (an entrepreneur), still reside in Doha, while her younger sister, Gauri, is in Class 9. In Kerala, her extended family includes legendary singer K P Udayabhanu and actor Aparna Balamurali. However, Gayathri feels her concept of home has expanded since entering the professional music world. I left home for studies and work when I was 15, she says. There are many families that I have now. Here in the US, too. They help me survive and in the struggle. I plan to stay put, as there is nothing else I know but music, she says, not dwelling much on the Grammy announcements slated for February 2 next year.
Even today, I don't know who is Prabhas: Sharmila
Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee President Y. S. Sharmila said on Friday that she swore on her children that she has no relations with actor Prabhas.
Indian opposition parties deny any wrongdoing linked to Adani bribery allegations
NEW DELHI, Nov 22 (Reuters) Opposition politicians from Indian states named in the U.S. indictment of billionaire Gautam Adani denied any wrongdoing on Friday, after Prime Minister Narendra Modis party said they had to answer for contracts signed while they were in power. U.S. authorities have charged Adani and seven others with agreeing to pay bribes to unnamed Indian government officials to obtain solar power-supply contracts in Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh, as well as the federal territory of Jammu and Kashmir, between 2021 and 2022. The Adani Group has denied the allegations made by the U.S.
Traffic chaos at ECIL due to students' protest
Hyderabad: A protest by students demanding the payment of long-pending scholarship and fee reimbursement affected traffic flow at ECIL Crossroads on Friday. Organised by the Telangana BC Students Association, led by Vemula Ramakrishna, the protesters said 16.75 lakh students were affected with the government not paying Rs 4,000 crore. The criticised the government for reportedly prioritising contractor payments over clearing students dues. Ramakrishna said the money was pending for four months. They said the delay in paying students was an attempt to undermine the fee reimbursement scheme, critical for BC, SC and ST students. Colleges have withheld certificates due to unpaid fees, derailing students higher education and career prospects. Our education is like a candle in the wind. Without financial support, our dreams are dying, said Anji Jellapalli. Protesters also demanded an increase in scholarship amounts from Rs 5,500 to Rs 20,000 per annum for degree students, matching Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. Hostel students highlighted substandard food and facilities due to rising prices. Officials whove never visited hostels have no idea about our plight, lamented Bhupesh Sagar.
Andhra & Telangana NCC Cadets Shine at Kokrajhar Marathon
Hyderabad : Cadets of the NCC Directorate of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana won two gold medals at the Kokrajhar Marathon in Assam recently. Held as part of the Special National Integration Camp, the marathon brought together over 2,000 athletes, including NCC cadets, defence and paramilitary personnel, and civilian runners. Cadet V. Samantha from the Nizamabad Group and GCI Hema Bindu from the Hyderabad group won gold medals. Cadet Arun Kumar completed the half-marathon in 1 hour and 28 minutes, securing the sixth position. They credited their success to the training provided under the guidance of Col Anil Kumar, Group Commander of the Hyderabad Group, and Havildar Narender Kangash. Col Kumar participated in the half-marathon. Air Commodore V.M. Reddy, Deputy Director General AP and TG NCC Directorate, lauded the cadets.
Adani-Jagan deal: Naidu cautious in comment.. - Greatandhra
Adani-Jagan deal: Naidu cautious in comment.. Greatandhra
Steps afoot to clear decades old garbage in three months, says TTD EO
Measures would be implemented to prevent the stench emanating from the accumulated waste, adhering to solid waste management norms, says J. Syamala Rao
75% posts at Uddanam kidney hospital are vacant, says A.P. Health Minister tells Assembly
The previous YSRCP government had failed to appoint sufficient doctors, nephrologists, and staff at the kidney research centre at Uddanam, says Satya Kumar Yadav
Blood donation, cleanliness drive mark NCC Day in Tirupati
APPSC announces results of exam held for DPRO post
Certificate verification will be held at APPSC office in Vijayawada on November 28
NTPC Green, Andhra Pradesh form JV for solar, wind, green hydrogen projects
NTPC Green Energy Ltd and Andhra Pradesh have partnered to develop 35 GW of renewable energy projects in the state. The $24 billion venture will also include green hydrogen production and is expected to create over 100,000 jobs. The first phase of projects is slated for completion by May 2027.
A.P. govt. failed to achieve targets set for health sector, says CAG report
The report for the period from 2017-18 to 2021-22 suggested that the government should enhance expenditure on healthcare services to 8% of the total State Budget and to 2.5% of the GSDP
ST Commission asks Revenue Dept. to guarantee roads, house sites for tribes of Kakinada district
Vaditya Shankar Naik interacts with the tribes of Konda Reddi, Konda Kammara, Manne Dora and Konda Dora, and documents their challenges and requirements
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu unveils Swarna Andhra-2047 vision document in Legislative Assembly
Zero poverty, employment, water security, and deep tech are among the 10 guiding principles that the document contains; it has proof of concept and it is not an impossible task, says Chandrababu Naidu
Pushpachaleswara temple witnesses higher pilgrim footfall
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu announced an investigation into alleged bribery involving the former YSRCP government and the Adani Group. The US Department of Justice accused Adani of bribing Indian officials, including those from the YSRCP, for favorable solar contracts.
CAG points out lapses in CFMS, excess payments from exchequer in Andhra Pradesh
The CFMS application was not only weak and vulnerable, but also failed to provide the envisaged outcomes, the CAG says in its report for the year ended March 31, 2023
TDP urges A.P. govt. to develop ORRs for Parvatipuram-Rajam towns
MLA Bonela Vijayachandra requests the Chief Minister to provide funds for the development of the Outer Ring Road in Parvatipuram
Finance Minister Payyavula Keshav tables fiscal policy statement in Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly
Mango pulp industries seek support from State, Centre
Approximately 2,75,000 tonnes of mango pulp produced in the Chittoor district in 2024 has not been exported, which is both disheartening and concerning, says AIFPA South Zone chairman
Magic, Mischief, and More: Vizag Junior Literary Fest 2024 Is HERE! - Yo Vizag
Magic, Mischief, and More: Vizag Junior Literary Fest 2024 Is HERE! Yo Vizag
Sons, daughter inflict severe injuries on man for neglecting their marriages
NTPC Green Energy signs pact for projects worth Rs 2 Lakh Cr in Andhra Pradesh
The collaboration will focus on developing 25 GW solar/wind, 10 GW pumped storage projects (PSPs), and 0.5 MMTPA green hydrogen.
TDP, JSP leaders rewarded with key nominated posts in Vizianagaram district
JSP leader Midatana Ravikumar, TDP senior leaders Gottapu Venkata Naidu, Kolli Appalanaidu elevated as directors of the Koppula Velama Corporation
5 all-time-favourite places in Vizag for heavenly hot chocolate this winter! - Yo Vizag
5 all-time-favourite places in Vizag for heavenly hot chocolate this winter! Yo Vizag
CM Naidu to study and respond on Adani-Andhra Pradesh solar deal
Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Friday, November 22, said the state government is in possession of the chargesheet reports filed in the US related to the alleged bribery scam involving the previous YSRCP-led Andhra Pradesh government and the Adani Group, and promised to act on the irregularities. Business tycoon and Adani 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 .
Puttaparthi all set for Sathya Sai Babas 99th birth anniversary celebrations
DCA busts spurious drug racket, 2 held
Hyderabad : In a joint operation with the STF of Prohibition and Excise department, the Drugs Control Administration (DCA) in Telangana, busted a spurious drug racket here on Friday. The racket involved the shipment of spurious antibiotic tablets from Uttar Pradesh to Telangana through couriers. Narcotic drugs - Fentanyl Transdermal Patches, were also seized during the raid. Gandla Ramulu, a habitual offender involved in various spurious drug cases in the State, shipped the spurious antibiotics into Telangana from Uttar Pradesh with the assistance of Munishekhar, a resident of Proddutur, Andhra Pradesh. Spurious antibiotics worth Rs.6.91 lakh were seized during the joint operation, and the accused, Gandla Ramulu and Munishekhar, were apprehended as part of the special operation carried out today.
Andhra Pradesh's higher education system, as outlined in the ASHE 2024 report, shows steady progress in enrolment, infrastructure, and access. However, challenges remain in improving gender parity, social inclusion, and educational quality. With a focus on increasing the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER), diversifying academic offerings, and enhancing student-teacher ratios, the state has made strides but must continue its efforts to provide equitable, high-quality education for all segments of the population.
Who is Prabhas, Sharmila asks Jagan.. - Greatandhra
Who is Prabhas, Sharmila asks Jagan.. Greatandhra
TDP, JSP leaders are trying to fool the people on VSP, he says
Will study US chargesheet reports, act on it: Andhra CM on Adani bribery case
Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu Friday said the state government is in possession of the chargesheet reports filed in the US related to the alleged bribery scam involving the previous YSRCP government and the Adani Group, and promised to act on the irregularities. Business tycoon and Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani has []
Amazon Employee Dies After Cardiac Arrest At Friend's Wedding, Video Shows Him Collapsing
The incident took place in Andhra Pradesh. The incident surfaced from Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh where a man suffered a fatal cardiac arrest friend's wedding in the Penumada village.
NTPC Green Energy To Set Up Renewable Energy Projects Worth Rs 2 Lakh Crore In Andhra Pradesh
This project will create over one lakh jobs, and position Andhra Pradesh at the forefront of India's green energy revolution, Chandrababu Naidu said.
Regulatory panel warns private college managements in A.P. against unlawful practices
The Commission may also recommend the disaffiliation of such institutions to the University concerned, APHERMC CEO said
Never met Prabhas: Politician slams baseless relationship rumors
Hyderabad: YS Sharmila, Andhra Pradesh Congress President, recently hit out at her brother, Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, over false rumors linking her to Telugu actor Prabhas. She strongly denied the allegations and accused Jagan of allowing such damaging rumors for political gain. Speaking at a press conference, Sharmila said, I swear on 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 .
NGEL to invest Rs 2 trillion in Andhra for renewable energy projects - Business Standard
NGEL to invest Rs 2 trillion in Andhra for renewable energy projects Business Standard
Naidu to study US chargesheet on Adani bribery case, take action
Vijayawada : Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Friday said the state government is in possession of the chargesheet reports filed in the US related to the alleged bribery scam involving the previous YSRCP government and the Adani Group, and promised to act on the irregularities. Business tycoon and Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani has been charged by the US Department of Justice over his role in an alleged years-long scheme to pay USD 250 million bribe to Indian officials in exchange for favourable terms for solar power contracts, an allegation refuted by the Indian conglomerate. The previous YSRCP regime is embroiled in the alleged scam with claims that government officials received bribes from the Adani Group. Addressing the Assembly, the Chief Minister said his government will study those charges and act on them I have all the chargesheet reports filed there (US). It is in the public domain. Will study it (the allegations and indictment). Will act on it and inform you, said Naidu. He noted that over the past five months, the TDP-led government has been discussing the alleged corruption that took place between 2019 and 2024. The YSRCP had on Thursday dismissed the allegations made against the government headed by it and said there was no direct agreement with the Adani group. Highlighting that the allegations involving the YSRCP regime and Adani group, have hurt the prestige and brand image of the southern state, Naidu termed it as a very sad development. Some members in the House wanted former CM Jagan Mohan Reddy to be held accountable if the charges against him are proven.
Good news for Indians! US consulate considers new visa application centres in Andhra Pradesh as demand rises Business Today
NTPC Green Energy signs pact for RE projects worth Rs 2 lakh cr in Andhra Pradesh
NTPC Green Energy Ltd (NGEL) and NREDCAP have partnered to establish renewable energy projects valued at Rs 2 lakh crore in Andhra Pradesh. The initiative aims to develop 25 GW of solar/wind power, 10 GW of pumped storage projects, and 0.5 MMTPA of green hydrogen, potentially generating over one lakh jobs.
Will study US 'chargesheet reports', act on it, says Andhra CM Naidu on Adani bribery case
AMARAVATI: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Friday said the state government is in possession of the chargesheet reports filed in the US related to the alleged bribery scam involving the previous YSRCP government and the Adani Group , and promised to act on the irregularities. Business tycoon and Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani has been charged by the US Department of Justice over his role in an alleged years-long scheme to pay USD 250 million bribe to Indian officials in exchange for favourable terms for solar power contracts, an allegation refuted by the Indian conglomerate. YSRC: USSEC allegations incorrect, thousands of crore saved with SECI deal The previous YSRCP regime is embroiled in the alleged scam with claims that government officials received bribes from the Adani Group. Addressing the Assembly, the Chief Minister said his government will study those charges and act on them. I have all the chargesheet reports filed there (US). It is in the public domain. Will study it (the allegations and indictment). Will act on it and inform you, said Naidu. He noted that over the past five months, the TDP-led government has been discussing the alleged corruption that took place between 2019 and 2024. The YSRCP had on Thursday dismissed the allegations made against the government headed by it and said there was no direct agreement with the Adani group. Highlighting that the allegations involving the YSRCP regime and Adani group, have hurt the prestige and brand image of the southern state, Naidu termed it as a very sad development. Some members in the House wanted former CM Jagan Mohan Reddy to be held accountable if the charges against him are proven. YSRC leaders sought shares in IT, says Andhra Minister Lokesh
Will study US chargesheet reports, act on it, says Andhra CM on Adani bribery case
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu stated that the state government possesses US chargesheet reports detailing an alleged bribery scheme involving the former YSRCP government and the Adani Group. Naidu pledged to investigate the reports and take appropriate action, emphasizing the damage the allegations have caused to the state's reputation.
Jagan tarnished Andhra image, says Sharmila - Greatandhra
Jagan tarnished Andhra image, says Sharmila Greatandhra
Individuals linked to Adani bribery case associated with Congress, alleges Andhra BJP chief
Andhra Pradesh BJP president D Purandeswari claims that individuals allegedly involved in the Adani Group bribery case are linked to the Congress party. She highlights alleged connections between Adani and Congress figures, and points to Power Sale Agreements signed during the terms of governments she claims were close to the Congress as potentially related to the allegations.
US charges against Adani, seven others could lead to arrest warrants, extradition bid: Attorney
NEW YORK: With the US filing civil and criminal charges against billionaire Gautam Adani and seven others over a multi-million-dollar bribery scheme, a prominent attorney here said that the case could escalate significantly, potentially leading to arrest warrants and even extradition attempts. Adani, India's second-richest man, and seven others, including his nephew Sagar Adani, have been charged by the US Department of Justice with paying bribes to unidentified officials of state governments in Andhra Pradesh and Odisha to buy expensive solar power, potentially earning more than USD 2 billion in profit over 20 years. Adani Group, however, denied the charges saying the allegations by US prosecutors are aseless and the conglomerate is compliant with all laws. US Attorney Breon Peace has the right to get arrest warrants issued against Adani and seven others indicted and serve them on the nations where they reside, Indian-American attorney Ravi Batra told PTI on Thursday. He further said, If that nation, as India does, has an extradition treaty then according to the bilateral contract between sovereign nations, the resident nation must turn over the person extradited by the United States. There is a process that the resident nation must comply with, consistent with its laws. How badly can bribery charges hit fund raising plans of Adani Group? Experts weigh in Batra noted that ultimately, extradition occurs absent the rarest of circumstances, as in the case of former Chilean president Augusto Pinochet. The United Kingdom did not extradite him solely on humanitarian grounds. It's hard to see the Pinochet precedent apply to this case involving Adani and seven others, he said. The India-US Extradition Treaty was signed in 1997. Peace, the US Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, has announced a five-count criminal indictment against 62-year-old Adani, his nephew Sagar, an executive director at the conglomerate's renewable energy arm Adani Green Energy Ltd, and its former CEO Vneet S Jaain. The indictment charged them with conspiracies to commit securities and wire fraud and substantive securities fraud for their roles in a multi-billion-dollar scheme to obtain funds from US investors and global financial institutions based on false and misleading statements. The indictment also charged Ranjit Gupta and Rupesh Agarwal, a former CEO and former chief strategy and commercial officer of Azure Power Global, and Cyril Cabanes, Saurabh Agarwal and Deepak Malhotra, former employees of a Canadian institutional investor, with conspiracy to violate the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. In a statement on Wednesday, Peace said the defendants orchestrated an elaborate scheme to bribe Indian government officials to secure contracts worth billions of dollars and Adani, Sagar and Jaain lied about the bribery scheme as they sought to raise capital from US and international investors. Batra said the US law develops very long arms when our capital markets are involved. While the eight-charged defendants have constitutional presumptive innocence, that evaporates if an honest and thoughtful defence if one exists, is not proffered skillfully. According to the US Justice Department, the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) prohibits paying foreign officials to influence actions, induce unlawful omissions, or secure improper advantages. The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has also charged Gautam and Sagar Adani and Azure Power executive Cabanes with violating the anti-fraud provisions of the federal securities laws.
New Delhi [India], November 22 (ANI): Yuvajana Sramika Rythu (YSR) Congress Party or YSRCP on Friday clarified that there was no direct agreement between Andhra Pradesh (AP) distribution companies (DISCOMs) and Adani group. The statement came after US proecutors charged Adani Group chairma Gautam Adani and others linking them to an alleged bribery scheme. Earlier, Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI), a government of India entity under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, came under attack by Congress leader Jairam Ramesh who alleged that SECI was the key player in the corruption scandal. It is necessary to mention
Bengaluru man dies of heart attack while giving gift to newlyweds on stage; Video goes viral
During a wedding celebration in Andhra Pradesh's Kurnool district, a man named Vamsi suffered a fatal heart attack while presenting a gift to the newlywed couple. Vamsi, who worked at Amazon in Bengaluru, had traveled to attend his friend's wedding. As the groom began to open the gift, Vamsi collapsed.
2nd Infosys campus to new data units: Lokesh shares 5 key IT developments in Visakhapatnam Yo Vizag
A wedding guest dies of cardiac arrest in Kurnool
The victim ,Vamsi, was employed with the Amazon in Bengaluru and had traveled to attend the wedding of a close friend, according to reports.
Hyderabad school girls who went missing traced at Andhra Pradesh beach
Hyderabad: Two school girls who went missing from Hyderabad on Wednesday were found at Suryalanka Beach in Andhra Pradeshs Bapatla district. The students studying in Class VIII at Sri Chaitanya Techno School in Vivekananda Nagar Colony were safely located by the police following a swift investigation. Timeline of events The incident came to light on 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 .
Allu Arjuns Pushpa 2 creates history in Andhra Pradesh - 123telugu
Allu Arjuns Pushpa 2 creates history in Andhra Pradesh 123telugu
Walt Disney World resort in Florida celebrates Diwali
New York: Diwali was celebrated with great pomp and show at the Walt Disney World resort with dance performances showcasing India's cultural diversity at the popular tourist destination. 'Diwali Dance Fest' returned to Walt Disney World Resort for a second year in a row with over 300 dancers from across North America, according to a press release issued here on Wednesday. The festival of light was celebrated over three days from Nov 7 to Nov 10 through a special parade and a 3-hour dance showcase. The fest was directed and produced by Jashn Productions founder Jeanie Beri. Celebrating the magic of Diwali was truly a dream come true, Beri said, adding that through such celebrations, the organisation hopes to create a sense of community and teach the importance of inclusivity. The three-day festival held at the Disney World resort in Florida included an official parade at Disney Springs followed by dancers performing a 20-minute choreographed piece for a line of spectators including parents, supporters, and guests. The signature Dance Fest Showcase closed out the festivities at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park with 17 dance schools and performances from various regions of India, including Gujarat, Punjab, and Andhra Pradesh weaving elements of pop, hip-hop, and classical forms of Indian dance, the release said. Diwali Dance Fest was truly unforgettable. Seeing so many passionate Indian dancers especially the young performers- sharing their art and heritage on an iconic stage at Walt Disney World was beyond inspiring, Shoba Narayan, who hosted the fest said. To watch these dancers proudly celebrate our traditions in a place that means so much to so many was both emotional and magical. It was a powerful reminder of how our culture continues to shine through the next generation, she said. Narayan is a former Broadway star who starred as Princess Jasmine in the long-running Disney hit 'Aladdin', the release said. Proceeds from the event were donated to a foundation that partners with various organisations, including one that works in hopes of finding matches for patients with blood cancers. In 2023, Diwali Dance Fest made history as the first-ever celebration of its kind that gave children the opportunity to showcase their talent on the world-renowned platform, the release said.
Bhimavaram JSP MLA likely to be PAC Chairman
VIJAYAWADA: P Ramanjaneyulu, Jana Sena Party MLA from Bhimavaram, is likely to be elected as Chairman of the Public Accountants Committee (PAC). With 10 MLAs filing nominations for nine PAC member posts, the conduct of election has become imminent. Seven TDP MLAs, one each from JSP, BJP and YSRC filed papers for the posts. Though YSRC MLA Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy filed his nomination, all the nine NDA MLAs are set to be elected as PAC members as YSRC does not have required strength. According to sources, each contestant should get around 20 votes (19.44) to get elected as PAC member, and the YSRC nominee is likely to lose the election as its strength is 11 only. In such a scenario, one among the nine elected PAC members will be elected as the chairman. In all likelihood, Ramanjaneyulu will become PAC chairman, sources added. Though the BJP has 7 MLAs, its candidate P Vishnu Kumar Raju filed the papers from the saffron party, and he is expected to win the election with the support of TDP and JSP MLAs. Though there was a practice to give the PAC chairman post to the opposition party, the YSRC failed to get the Principal Opposition Party status in the House because of its meagre strength. In fact, during the previous YSRC regime, the TDP, which got the Opposition party status with 23 MLAs, nominated Payyavula Keshav as the Public Accountants Committee member, and subsequently he became the Chairman.
YSRC leaders sought shares in IT, says Andhra Minister Lokesh
VIJAYAWADA: Minister for Human Resource Development (HRD) and Information Technology (IT) Nara Lokesh on Thursday alleged that investors deserted Andhra Pradesh as a few leaders in the previous YSRC government had demanded shares in tech companies. Replying to a question in the State Legislative Assembly, Lokesh revealed that representatives of IT companies told him that some leaders of the YSRC regime sought shares in IT companies. Pointing out that he held talks with several IT companies in the last five months, the Minister said as a result of those discussions Tata Consultancy Services has agreed to set up its office in Vizag. He added he has also urged Infosys to set up another campus. He maintained that the State government has set a target of providing five lakh jobs in five years in the IT sector. Further, he highlighted his discussions with representatives of various data centres during his recent visit to the US. He stated that as the previous government did not focus on setting up data centres in the State, the firms moved to neighbouring States of Karnataka and Telangana. Lokesh announced that at least two data companies are going to set up their units in the Port City soon. He added that efforts are on to get NICSI (National Informatics Centre Services Inc) to Vizag. The IT Minister opined that if a national-level data policy is adopted, companies will certainly come to the State with massive investments. He declared that of the total $300 billion invested in the sector annually, the State has set a target of attracting at least $100 billion. He asserted that the issues raised by the representatives on data security and taxation are being resolved. New policy for global delivery centres soon He also stressed the need for a new policy for setting up global delivery centres of Fortune 500 companies which is likely to be adopted next month. Recalling that TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu, who was Chief Minister from 2014 to 2019, moved ahead with the slogan of one capital and decentralisation of development, Lokesh said the then TDP government made every effort for developing the IT sector in Visakhapatnam. It is really gratifying that 20% of the total employees in the entire IT sector across the globe are Telugus. This has been possible because of the efforts put by Naidu to develop the sector, Lokesh said and emphasised that at least 150 companies were set up in the State between 2014 and 2019 providing jobs to 50,000 youngsters. Lokesh recounted that the NDA government had inked an agreement with the Adani Group to establish a data centre in the State. He highlighted that a conclave was also organised with several IT giants in Vizag. He noted that at a time when the IT industry was growing at a fast pace, there was a sudden halt due to the policies adopted by the YSRC government. It was perhaps for the first time in the countrys history that political leaders demanded shares in tech companies. Organisations such as NICSI and STBI (Savli Technology and Business Incubator) left the State, resulting in several youngsters losing out on job opportunities, Lokesh said.
YSRC: USSEC allegations incorrect, thousands of crore saved with SECI deal
VIJAYAWADA: YS Jagan Mohan Reddys YSR Congress Party has strongly condemned the allegations of USSEC in its Indictment saying that they are incorrect. The Power Sale Agreement (PSA) was signed between two government agencies SECI and Discoms after the approvals from the AP Electricity Regulatory Commission (APERC) and the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) and there was no direct agreement with Adani group. In a three-page rebuttal, the YSRC explained that this deal was extremely favourable with respect to the interests of the State, and procurement of power at Rs 2.49 per kWh, including waiver of ISTS charges. The cheap rate would substantially benefit the State with a saving of Rs 3,700 crore per annum. As the agreement was for a period of 25 years, the total benefit to the State due to this agreement would be immense, the YSRC explained. The Government of Andhra Pradesh agreed to procure power from SECI to the tune of 7,000 MW at Rs 2.49 per kWh for 25 years with 3,000 MW commencing in FY 2024-25, another 3,000 MW in FY 2025-26, while the remaining 1,000 MW in FY 2026-27. The PSA was signed on December 1, 2021. The YSRC note stated that the cost of procuring power was Rs 5.10 per kWh at that time, and the State distribution utilities were supplying close to 12,500 MU of free power per annum to the agriculture sector, which made subsidy cost very burdensome. The YSRC clarified that in view of this, the State government in 2020 proposed to install 10,000 MW solar capacity in solar parks to be developed in the State. In this regard, a tender was floated by APGECL in November 2020 for the development of solar power capacity aggregating to 6,400 MW, wherein 24 bids were received with tariffs in the range of Rs 2.40 to Rs 2.59 per kWh. However the exercise could not fructify as the tender encountered several obstacles on legal and regulatory fronts, the YSRCP stated. In this scenario, the State government received an offer from SECI to supply 7,000 MW power at Rs 2.49 per kWh, including ISTS charges, which were waived by the Ministry of Power for 25 years for the projects selected under the Manufacturing Linked Project. CPI DEMANDS JUDICIAL PROBE CPI State secretary K Ramakrishna demanded that the government should cancel all the agreements signed by the YSRC government, and an inquiry be conducted with the sitting High Court Judge into the corruption allegations made in the USSEC Indictment. Due to these fraudulent agreements, people are bearing the burden of Fuel and Power Purchase Cost Adjustment amounting Rs 17,820 crore, he said.
Andhra Assembly passes Land Grabbing, seven other Bills
VIJAYAWADA: The Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly passed the highly anticipated Land Grabbing (Prohibition) Bill 2024 along with seven other important bills on Thursday, marking a major move toward addressing land-related issues and improving law and order in the State. The bills were passed on the penultimate day of the budget session, with Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu leading the discussion on the legislation. Speaking on the Land Grabbing (Prohibition) Bill 2024 and the Andhra Pradesh Prevention of Dangerous Activities of Bootleggers, Dacoits, Drug Offenders, Goondas, Immoral Traffic Offenders, and Land-Grabbers Act (Amendment) Bill 2024, Naidu said development in any State or country can only thrive under effective law enforcement, which provides a peaceful atmosphere for residents and potential investors alike. There can be no development if the people are living in fear, Naidu said, stressing that industries can only flourish if investments are made, and investments are only possible when law and order is maintained. For industries to be established, strong measures and stringent laws are necessary, he added, outlining his administrations plans to fortify the police setup. Naidu announced that 6,100 vacant posts in the police department will be filled soon to ensure that law and order is maintained effectively across the State. He also took the opportunity to criticise the previous YSRC government, pointing out that the former administration failed to address the menace of ganja and other illegal activities. When ganja was seized anywhere in the country, the roots were traced back to Andhra Pradesh, he remarked, recalling how TDP offices were attacked during protests against the growing drug issue. He also condemned the YSRC governments handling of objectionable social media comments targeting the family members of Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha. Naidu accused the previous administration of resorting to organised social media crime to attack political opponents. In response to these issues, Naidu announced plans to set up a National Forensic Science campus in the State, aimed at combating cybercrime and other illegal activities. He also expressed his belief that the State needs strong laws to tackle land-related irregularities. The Land Titling Act, introduced by the previous government, only encouraged land mafia, Naidu said, describing it as a conspiracy against Constitutional provisions. After the formation of the TDP-led NDA government, the Act was repealed, replacing it with a more stringent law evolved to curb land grabbing. The Land Grabbing (Prevention) Bill 2024 aims to protect the land and property rights of ordinary citizens by imposing severe penalties on land grabbers. Revenue Minister Anagani Satya Prasad, who introduced the bill in the House, emphasised its importance, stating that over 90% of complaints received by the government involved land-related disputes. Under the previous government, land grabbing went unchecked. This bill ensures that no land grabber is left scot-free, Anagani said, highlighting that the new law will offer greater protection to the public. In addition to the Land Grabbing (Prohibition) Bill, the Assembly also passed several other significant pieces of legislation, including the AP Goods and Services (Amendment) Bill 2024, the AP Charitable and Hindu Religious Institutions and Endowments (Amendment) Bill, and the Andhra Pradesh Infrastructure (Transparency Through Judicial Preview) (Repeal) Bill 2024. These bills reflect the State governments broader focus on improving governance, transparency, and the overall welfare of the public. The Chief Minister concluded by reiterating that for AP to become a hub of knowledge-based industries and achieve its vision of Swarnadhara Pradesh, maintaining law and order would be paramount.
AP Legislative Assembly resolves to provide 33 per cent BC quota
VIJAYAWADA: The AP Legislative Assembly on Thursday resolved to provide 33% reservation to Backward Classes (BCs) in the legislative bodies. In the afternoon session of the Assembly, Minister for BC Welfare S Savitha introduced the resolution. Elaborating on the importance of 33% reservation for BCs, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said the TDP has been most supportive of BCs since its inception, and advocated their political empowerment. IT was our party founder NT Rama Rao, who emphasised social justice, had reserved 25% of seats in local bodies for BCs, which was enhanced to 33% when I became the Chief Minister, Naidu said. Elaborating on how the TDP has been following the policy of political empowerment of BCs within the party, he said several stalwarts like K Yerran Naidu, KE Krishnamurthy and Devender Goud were given priority. He further said though they did social engineering and ensured BCs were given party tickets during the recent elections, much more needs to be done. We should understand that BCs are dependent on traditional occupations for their economic survival. With traditional occupations slowly becoming wane, economic support is needed for such people. The government is making every effort to help out these sections, he asserted. However, Naidu opined that justice can be done to BCs only when they have political representation by their population strength. Hence, the AP Assembly has resolved to provide 33% reservation to BCs in the legislative bodies. We will also advocate similar reservation at the national level, he added.
HC bench to be set up in Kurnool, Andhra
VIJAYAWADA: The Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly has adopted a resolution to set up the High Court Bench in Kurnool. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu announced in the Assembly on Thursday that the High Court bench will soon be set up in Kurnool as promised by the NDA during the elections. He told the House that the Cabinet has already approved the proposal, and the resolution adopted by the Assembly will be forwarded to the AP High Court and the Centre. He also pronounced that the offices of AP Lokayukta and AP State Human Rights Commission (APSHRC) will not be shifted from Kurnool to Amaravati. Making it clear that the NDA government is committed to the comprehensive development of the State, Naidu asserted that Visakhapatnam in North Andhra, Kurnool and Tirupati in Rayalaseema will be developed further. Regretting that the State did not witness any development in the past five years due to the faulty policies of the previous YSRC regime in the name of three capitals, Naidu reminded that even when the TDP was in the Opposition, it convinced the people of Visakhapatnam and Kurnool that Amaravati is the sole capital of the State. Maintaining that comprehensive development of the State is possible only with the TDP, he said it it was TDP founder NT Rama Rao who launched the Telugu Ganga, Handri-Neeva and Nagari-Galeru projects to take Krishna water to Rayalaseema. Naidu felt that if Godavari and Krishna rivers are interlinked, and the Polavaram Irrigation Project is completed to take Godavari water to Banakacherla, it will be a game changer. The Gollapalli reservoir was completed within a year only to get Kia and the facade of Anantapur totally changed with the arrival of the automobile company. Rayalaseema will witness wonders if horticulture is properly developed as Bengaluru airport is close to Anantapur, Hyderabad airport to Kurnool and Chennai airport to Chittoor and the air connectivity should be properly utilised for the economic development of the respective districts. An airport was constructed at Orvakal during the previous TDP regime, and Tirupati airport was expanded to increase the flight services. The four combined districts of Rayalaseema have four airports, he highlighted. When the Centre sanctioned two industrial parks for the State, one was set up at Orvakal in Kurnool, and another at Kopparthi in Kadapa. A sum of Rs 5,000 crore was sanctioned for the development of these industrial parks. About 300 acres of was allocated for a drone hub at Orvakal. Steps are also being taken to develop Kurnool as the best city in the State, he explained. Top priority is given to education in Rayalaseema region, and Tirupati is being transformed into an education hub. IIT was established at Tirupati, Urdu University at Kurnool and Central University at Anantapur to promote higher education in a big way. Subsidies will be revived for farmers to adopt drip irrigation. All the promises made during Yuva Galam Padayatra of HRD Minister Lokesh will be fulfilled for the comprehensive development of Rayalaseema, the Chief Minister added.
Collector reviews arrangements for Guvs visit - The Hans India
Collector reviews arrangements for Guvs visit The Hans India
Plan to levy EMC on Papikondalu boats from December 1
RAJAMAHENDRAVARAM: The Forest Department is set to launch the Clean Papikondalu National Park mission, introducing Environment Maintenance Charges (EMC) to curb pollution and fund conservation efforts. Checkposts will be set up at strategic locations within Papikondalu National Park to collect these charges, in line with Supreme Court guidelines and National Green Tribunal (NGT) directives. Conservator of Forests for the Rajamahendravaram circle, BNN Murthy, confirmed that EMC collection will begin on December 1. Speaking to TNIE, he emphasised the necessity of the initiative, citing environmental degradation caused by unchecked waste disposal. He said boat entry charges will be based on seating capacity in the Eluru, Rampachodavaram, and Chintur forest divisions. A fee of `2,500 will be charged per boat trip for seats counts below 50, `4,000 for boats carrying fewer than 100 passengers, and `6,000 for boats ferrying 100 passengers or more. Additionally, digital and professional cameras will incur a charge of `500. Of the 40 boats operating in the area, including two tourist vessels, each will pay EMC based on its capacity. Road traffic will also be subject to fees, with light vehicles charged `50 and heavy vehicles `100. Checkposts for fee collection are being set up at Maredumilli, Tulasipakala, and Darapalli on land, and at Gandipochamma temple and Pochavaram boating points along the river. To tackle waste accumulation, the department plans to recruit 50 Swachh Sevakas and fire watchers. Their duties will include removing plastic waste, liquor bottles, and other garbage from the Godavari riverbanks and areas surrounding Perantallapalli within the park. Murthy highlighted the urgency of the mission, saying, As the manager of this protected area, I have to safeguard Papikondalu. Waste, particularly plastic and liquor bottles, has become a menace, harming wildlife and its habitat. Murthy stressed the importance of keeping the park litter-free to protect its ecosystem. Drawing from their success in implementing EMC at the Nagarjuna Sagar-Srisailam project area, he expressed confidence that public awareness and cooperation from boat operators will make the initiative successful.
NTPC enters into partnership with NREDCAP in Andhra
VIJAYAWADA: NTPC Green Energy Limited (NGEL), a subsidiary of National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) Limited, has joined hands with the New and Renewable Energy Development Corporation of Andhra Pradesh (NREDCAP) to set up renewable energy projects worth an investment of Rs 1.87 lakh crore. The agreement, signed at the State Secretariat on Thursday, marks a milestone in Andhra Pradeshs ambitious clean energy journey. The memorandum of understanding was signed in the presence of Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and Energy Minister Gottipati Ravi Kumar. The initiative is expected to generate employment for over 1,06,250 individuals and deliver an estimated financial benefit of Rs 20,620 crore over the next 25 years. The high-profile signing ceremony was attended by key figures including Gurdeep Singh, Chairman and Managing Director of NTPC/NGEL, R Sarangapani, Executive Director of NGEL, and K Vijayanand, Special Chief Secretary of Energy, alongside senior officials from NREDCAP and Andhra Pradesh Power Generation Corporation Limited (APGENCO). The move aligns with APs Integrated Clean Energy Policy 2024, which has positioned the state as an attractive hub for renewable energy investments. Chief Minister Naidu described the joint venture as a pivotal step toward energy security for the state and a significant contributor to Indias renewable energy goals. He emphasised the importance of green energy in combating climate change and underscored the need to complete the first phase of the project by April 2027. Under the policy, Andhra Pradesh aims to achieve 78.5 GW of solar power, 35 GW of wind power, and 22 GW of pumped hydro storage, in addition to producing 1.5 MMTPA of green hydrogen within five years. The joint venture plans to develop up to 25 GW of solar, wind, and hybrid renewable energy projects with or without storage, along with 10 GW of pumped hydro storage. It also includes the production of 0.5 MMTPA of green hydrogen and derivatives such as green ammonia and methanol, offering strategic support to Indias clean energy objectives. The Energy Minister lauded the collaboration as a landmark initiative to secure the States energy future and contribute to a sustainable, greener economy. Energy Secretary, K Vijayanand, highlighted the project as a model for other states, showcasing the potential of State and Central collaboration in renewable energy. Under the agreement, NGEL will secure financial and technical support and facilitate approvals from the central government, while NREDCAP will identify sites, provide land, and secure State-level permits.
Guntur GGH performs 90 heart surgeries in past five months
GUNTUR: Guntur Government General Hospital (GGH) has marked a significant achievement by performing more than 90 heart bypass and open-heart surgeries over the past five months. On Thursday, three patients who underwent bypass surgeries were discharged, highlighting the success of these life-saving procedures. The hospital plans to perform 30-40 bypass and open-heart surgeries each month, along with keyhole heart surgeries, pending State government approval. GGH Superintendent Dr SSV Ramana revealed that the Cardiothoracic and Vascular Department, under the NTR Vaidya Seva scheme, successfully carried out 90 surgeries, including aortic and mitral valve replacements, all at no cost to the patients. Dr Ramana noted that the hospital has also become a preferred destination for patients seeking high-quality treatment, with many travelling from private hospitals. Dr Harikrishna Murthy, head of the Cardiothoracic and Vascular Department, explained that the hospital had previously struggled with a lack of essential equipment for open-heart surgeries. However, thanks to the support of the State government and Dr Alla Gopalakrishna Gokhale, founder of the Sahrudaya Trust, the hospital was provided with equipment worth Rs 20 lakh, significantly improving the success rate of surgeries. The skilled nursing and medical staff have also played a key role in these successful outcomes. Heart bypass surgeries at GGH began in 2016 through a partnership with Sahrudaya Trust, which supplied equipment and expertise. However, after the MoU ended in 2019, followed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the surgeries were temporarily halted due to staff shortages. The Sahrudaya Trust resumed its support after requests from the health department. Dr Ramana lauded the efforts of surgeons Dr Kuppuswamy, Dr Yogi, and Dr Pramoda for their exceptional contributions.
Probe ordered into 14-year-olds death in Andhra
GUNTUR: Karlapudi village in Guntur district is gripped by shock following the suspicious death of 14-year-old Shaik Sameer, a Class IX student at the local ZP High School. Orphaned and living with his grandmother, Sameer was reportedly found dead in a village well, raising questions about the circumstances of his demise. Relatives allege foul play, pointing to injuries and blood found on the body. Sources revealed that Sameer, who skipped school on October 24, had been reportedly harassed by some classmates. Notably, these students also skipped a mock drill held at the school that day and left the premises hours before villagers discovered Sameers body. While initial reports suggest drowning, relatives suspect that Sameer was attacked and pushed into the well. The district education department has initiated an investigation, appointing the Tenali deputy education officer to lead the probe. Officials aim to determine why the students left school without attending the drill.
Gautam Adani bribery case: In light of the US Department of Justice's indictment of the Adani Group for alleged bribery in Andhra Pradesh, the YSR Congress Party insists there was no direct agreement between the state and Adani.
Move to relocate APGB office triggers resentment in Andhra
KADAPA: The Central governments decision to relocate the Andhra Pragathi Grameena Bank (APGB) headquarters from Kadapa to Amaravati has triggered widespread protests across Kadapa and surrounding districts. Stakeholders argue that the move undermines local employment opportunities and disrupts financial services in the economically backward Rayalaseema region. The relocation is part of the Centres One State-One Regional Rural Bank (RRB) policy, aimed at merging Andhra Pradeshs four rural banksAPGB, Chaitanya Godavari Grameena Bank, Saptagiri Grameena Bank, and Andhra Pradesh Vikas Grameena Bankinto a single entity. This initiative, developed with NABARD and State governments, seeks to cut operational costs, optimise technology, and enhance efficiency. Under the guidelines, merged entities must establish their head office in the state capital or the region with the highest business activity. Established in 2006, APGBs Kadapa head office manages a business volume of Rs 46,344 crore, making it one of the largest RRBs in India. Serving districts like Kadapa, Anantapur, and Kurnool, it employs nearly 2,800 staff members and plays a crucial role in financial inclusion for rural and underserved communities. Protesters, including banking unions and NGOs, argue that shifting the head office to Amaravati will increase operational expenses, reduce accessibility, and alienate rural customers. They stress that Kadapas infrastructure and central location within its operational area are more conducive to fulfilling the banks mandate. Despite protests and appeals to political leaders like Finance Minister Payyavula Keshav and Transport Minister Mandapalli Ramprasad Reddy, the Ministry of Finance has clarified that the decision is irreversible. Union leaders discussions with officials in New Delhi have confirmed Amaravati as the new headquarters. Leaders from the APGB Officers Association have vowed to escalate protests, fearing the move will diminish the banks ability to serve Rayalaseemas underprivileged population. Stakeholders assert that Kadapas strategic role in APGBs rural outreach programmes should not be overlooked in favour of administrative convenience.
TTD chairman meets Telangana CM - The Hans India
TTD chairman meets Telangana CM The Hans India
YSR Congress denies direct agreement between AP DISCOMs and Adani Group
The YSR Congress Party clarified that Andhra Pradesh DISCOMs have no direct agreements with the Adani Group, refuting allegations linked to a bribery case involving the company. The states deal with SECI ensures affordable power procurement, benefiting the state significantly
TDP delays response on Adani Bribery claims; seeks detailed review
Amaravati: Telugu Desam Party, a key ally of NDA, will react only after going through the issue of Adani Group allegedly paying bribes for solar power contracts in Andhra Pradesh, said party spokesperson Kommareddy Pattabhiram on Thursday. We need to study the report before coming to a conclusion. It would take two to three days, 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 .
Minor gang-raped near Vellore, 3 arrested in Andhra Pradesh
A 13-year-old girl was abducted and gang-raped by three men in Vellore district, Tamil Nadu. The incident occurred on November 16 when the girl was alone outside her house. The accused, who were drinking nearby, took her to a quarry and assaulted her. They were arrested on Wednesday and remanded in judicial custody.
TCS recruits 52 PB Siddhartha students - The Hans India
TCS recruits 52 PB Siddhartha students The Hans India
Public advised to resist smart meters installation - The Hans India
Public advised to resist smart meters installation The Hans India
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JPC chief says Waqf Bill draft ready, Oppn seeks extension of deadline
NEW DELHI: The Union government is set to introduce the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 during the winter session of Parliament. Chairman of the Joint Committee of Parliament scrutinizing the Bill Jagdambika Pal said on Thursday that the panels draft report is ready for submission. However, several opposition members opposed the move and demanded an extension of the tenure of the joint committee on the Bill, contending that they needed more time to study the changes to the draft. Our draft report is ready. We will soon give a date for clause-by-clause discussion on its recommendations, Pal told reporters after a six-hour meeting of the committee. The Minority Affairs ministry also presented a detailed justification for the amendments proposed by the government in the Waqf Act. The committee has been asked by the Lok Sabha to submit its report on the last day of the first week of the winter session of Parliament. Waqf Bill steamroller may run into Naidu roadblock demanding pause In the meeting, Pal announced that Thursdays meeting would be the last sitting of the panel and that a draft report would be circulated to the members shortly. The Opposition members, however, resorted to sloganeering and some of them met Speaker Om Birla and sought his intervention. An MP told this newspaper that all Opposition MPs will meet Birla on November 25, the first day of the winter session, to push for their demand for an extension of the deadline. Pal hoped for a consensus as the committee has engaged in an exhaustive deliberation with a wide range of stakeholders. Sources, however, said the government may tread cautiously on the Bill as the key NDA allies -- TDP and JD (U) -- appear under pressure from the Muslim leaders in Andhra Pradesh and Bihar. Sources also said that the committee may get a short extension as it needs to complete the formalities of preparing its voluminous report before it is discussed in the meeting. Dismissing the charges, Pal said the Speaker had constituted the committee, and whatever he decides would be acceptable to all. The Minority Affairs Ministry has deposed before the committee for nearly 29 hours through five days, and nearly 1,000 slides covering the members views and the ministrys replies and stand have been prepared, Pal said, adding that the panel has held 25 sittings and visited many states. Minorities panel clears plan for data analysis wing A meeting of the National Commission for Minorities (NCM) on Thursday approved the proposal for establishing a dedicated Research and Data Analysis Division and National Clearing House for Data Collection and Management in the commission. The proposal was based on the mandate of the NCM Act 1992 and would supersede the provisions of the NCM (Procedures and Processes) Regulation: 1997 related to evaluation, monitoring and procedure for conducting studies, and SOP for engaging institutes, organisations or agencies for conducting studies on various subjects relating to minorities. The commission also discussed recent minority related court judgments, RBI report on credit facilities and employment status amongst minorities.
Karnataka countrys second largest milk producer, claims CM Siddaramaiah
BENGALURU: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who was on a visit to New Delhi on Thursday, declared that Karnataka has emerged as the second-largest milk producer in India, after Gujarat. The states 16 milk unions produce about 1 crore litres of milk daily. Karnataka has started supplying 2.5 lakh litres of milk daily to New Delhi, with plans to increase this to 5 lakh litres in six months. Creating a strong market for milk products is crucial for the growth of the dairy industry and wellbeing of farmers, he said. Speaking at the launch of Nandini milk variants, organised by the Karnataka Milk Producers Federation (KMF) and Mandya District Cooperative Milk Union, he credited the states success to the strong support given to the dairy sector. We formed milk producers associations to ensure farmers got fair prices and a permanent market for their produce, he said. He elaborated as the state produces 92-93 lakh litres of milk on a daily basis, out of which 2.5 lakh litres are sent to Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra. Through the Ksheeradhare Scheme, milk is purchased at Rs 32 per litre, with an additional Rs 5 per litre incentive given by the government, he added. When I became CM, I increased this incentive to Rs 5 per litre, the highest so far. The state spends Rs 5 crore every day on these incentives, he claimed.
YSRCP denies any direct agreement with Adani on 7,000 MW power purchases from SECI
Amaravati: In light of the US prosecutors indicting Gautam Adani, chairman of the Adani Group and six others of offering over Rs 1,700 crore in bribe to Indian government officials to enter into power purchase agreements (PPA) with Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) in August 2021 which includes supplying 7,000 MW power to Andhra 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 .
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AP Signs Joint Venture with NTPC Green Energy Limited
VIJAYAWADA : An agreement was signed on a joint venture between the New and Renewable Energy Development Corporation of Andhra Pradesh (NREDCAP) and NTPC Green Energy Limited (NGEL) of the state government in the presence of Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu at the AP Secretariat on Thursday. Naidu said the NGEL will invest Rs 1,87,000 crore to set up renewable energy projects in the state which enables to provide employment opportunities to about 1,06,250 people and Rs 20,620 crore benefit to the state in various forms over the next 25 years. Naidu said, This joint venture is a key step in making Andhra Pradesh a leader in the energy sector. The state government will always be at the forefront of promoting renewable energy projects like solar, wind, pumped storage, green hydrogen and green ammonia. Its clear that the future belongs to the renewable energy sector and the first phase of this project should be completed by April-May 2027. The CM said his support will always be with the Central government, which is working towards the production of pollution-free energy sources. As part of the Integrated Clean Energy Policy, we have set a target of achieving 78.50 GW of solar energy, 35 GW of wind energy, 22 GW of pumped storage and 1.50 MMTPA of green hydrogen production in the next five years, he added. Naidu said the target is not only to meet the basic energy needs of the state but also to generate huge revenue for the state. We are taking very committed and planned steps in the renewable energy sector and will make the state as an example for the country in this regard, he added. The Chief Minister said the joint venture is a key milestone that will secure the energy future of Andhra Pradesh and contribute significantly to the countrys overall renewable energy targets. . Minister of energy Gottipati Ravi Kumar praised the NREDCAP-NGEL joint venture as a crucial step in securing Andhra Pradeshs energy future and contributing to national renewable energy goals. He highlighted the significance of such initiatives in creating a cleaner, greener and more sustainable future. Special chief secretary (energy) K. Vijayanand noted that the partnership between NREDCAP and NGEL would serve as a model for other states, helping to meet both local and national energy requirements sustainably. He added that with this joint initiative, Andhra Pradesh is on track to become a national leader in renewable energy, contributing to both state and national goals for a sustainable and energy-secure future. . Minister of energy Gottipati Ravi Kumar, NTPC/NGEL chairman & managing director Gurdeep Singh, NGEL executive director (business development) R. Sarangapani, special chief secretary (energy) K. Vijayanand, NREDCAP vice-chairman and managing director and APGenco managing director K.V.N. Chakradhar Babu and other senior officials of power utilities were present on the occasion.
