Odisha braces for cyclone Arnab, CM Majhi targets zero casualties as storm nears coast on October 28
Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has announced preparations for cyclone Arnab, expected to make landfall on October 28. The India Meteorological Department forecasts heavy rainfall and rough seas in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. Specific responsibilities have been assigned to various departments for coordinated disaster response measures. The government aims for zero casualties during the impending weather event.
Gujarat: 500 youths from six states, UT take part in drug-free India campaign
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Oct 24 (IANS) Around 500 youths from six states and a Union Territory took part in a drug-awareness programme organised by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) at the Heartfulness Centre in Gandhinagar on Saturday, using traditional Indian games, fitness challenges and Zumba to promote a healthy, drug-free lifestyle. The programme, organised by SAI Regional Centre Gandhinagar under the 'Fit India Movement' in collaboration with MY Bharat, was held under the theme 'Nasha Mukt Yuva, Viksit Bharat'. Participants came from Bihar, Odisha, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh, as well as the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. They were divided into state-based teams for a series of sporting activities designed to encourage teamwork and physical fitness while raising awareness about substance abuse. The event began with an address and a group warm-up session, followed by an address by mountaineer and Fit India Movement brand ambassador Nisha Kumari. She also administered the 'Nasha Mukt Bharat' pledge, in which participants committed themselves to staying away from tobacco, alcohol and drugs and making healthier choices in their daily lives. The activities included Lagori, tug of war, sack race, a snakes-and-ladders game based on the Nasha Mukt Bharat campaign, 'Knock Out Nasha' can toss, 'Choose Fitness' ring toss, the Fit India Fitness Challenge and a penalty shoot-out. Conducted across designated activity zones, the challenges tested participants' agility, speed, coordination, accuracy and ability to work as a team. A Zumba session added a group-fitness component to the programme, while the traditional games offered participants an opportunity to engage with forms of recreation that have become less familiar to some young people. I really liked today's event, as it conveys the message of de-addiction to young people while also reviving traditional games that were once widely played. Many of these games are unfamiliar to today's youth, so it is encouraging to see them being introduced through such initiatives, Kumari said. Ishtpreet Kaur, Assistant Director at SAI Regional Centre Gandhinagar, was present at the event and felicitated Kumari with a memento in recognition of her association with the initiative. District Youth Officer Ayush said the programme aimed to encourage young people to avoid substance abuse and contribute to the vision of a developed India by 2047. We want our country to become completely free from drugs, and we want young people to stay away from substance abuse so that we can realise the vision of a 'Viksit Bharat by 2047'. With this objective, various initiatives are being undertaken to channel the energy of young people in the right direction, he added. The programme concluded with the felicitation of winners from the traditional games and fitness activity zones. Sachin Sharma, state director of MY Bharat Gujarat, and Vishal Nagarale, Jamnagar district youth officer, were also present, along with organisers and volunteers. The initiative forms part of the Fit India Movement, which encourages people to make physical activity and fitness part of their daily lives. Through the campaign, the organisers sought to link participation in sports and recreational activities with the message of preventing substance abuse among young people.
Chandrababu Naidu compares Jagan Mohan to 'Kansa' from Mahabharata over niece's wedding row
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday compared YSR Congress Party leader YS Jagan Mohan Reddy to the mythological character Kamsa from the Mahabharata and accused him of obstructing his nieces wedding at...
Seven killed as tipper carrying diesel catches fire in ASR district of Andhra Pradesh
A spark is suspected to have triggered an explosion when staff of the tipper were shifting diesel to a pickup truck; government teacher who took a lift in the tipper for her school is among the deceased
K. Chidambaram takes charge as Bar Council of India member from Andhra Pradesh
K. Chidambaram takes charge as Bar Council of India member from Andhra Pradesh
AgriGold bond verification in Karnataka from October 27; nine centres set up
The verification exercise follows the Andhra Pradesh governments constitution of a five-member Group of Ministers to review and address issues concerning AgriGold depositors.
YSRCP trying to disrupt local body polls through violence: Naidu
Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday, October 24, accused the YSRCP of resorting to criminal politics and attempting to disrupt local bodies polls through violence. The YSRCP in turn charged the ruling TDP-led government with undermining democracy through its alleged collusion with the police and the State Election Commission (SEC). Addressing 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 .
Schools to Remain Closed on Oct 28
With a looming tropical cyclone projected to make landfall near the North Andhra Pradesh and South Odisha coasts around October 28, the Odisha government has activated its full disaster management apparatus. Placing safety above all else, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has ordered the complete closure of all schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centres in five [] The post Schools to Remain Closed on Oct 28 & 29 in Five Odisha Districts Due to Cyclone appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
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Be mindful of how much water you use, Hyderabad residents told
Hyderabad: The El Nino effect has severely affected drinking water supply across Hyderabad. Resident welfare associations have urged residents to use water judiciously amid a possible shortage. A video has emerged on social media of a man on a bicycle with a loudspeaker asking people of Panchavati Sai Lakshmi Colony in Manikonda not to waste 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 .
Scuffle Reported Between Vidadala Rajini And Police In Andhra Pradesh
Tension gripped Chilakaluripet as a reported scuffle broke out between former minister Vidadala Rajini and police over a ZPTC candidate allegedly being stopped at her residence. YSRCP leaders claimed Rajini was pushed to the ground during the confrontation.
Tattoo Unravels Heinous Blind Murder in Kataka: Accused Arrested from Andhra Pradesh
In a stellar display of modern policing, scientific acumen, and inter-state coordination, the Commissionerate Police has successfully solved the high-profile blind murder case of an unidentified woman whose body was recovered from the Kathajodi riverbank near Raja Bagicha on October 7, 2026. The investigation, registered under Badambadi PS Case No. 505 under Section 103(1) of [] The post Tattoo Unravels Heinous Blind Murder in Kataka: Accused Arrested from Andhra Pradesh appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Low Pressure Intensifies, Cyclone Likely by Oct 26; Heavy Rain Warning for Odisha
A depression formed over the southeast and east-central Bay of Bengal on October 23 and has rapidly intensified into a well-marked low-pressure area, triggering an extensive severe weather alert for the coastal regions of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) bulletin, the system is projected to escalate into a depression [] The post Low Pressure Intensifies, Cyclone Likely by Oct 26; Heavy Rain Warning for Odisha appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
AP Rains: Naidu Puts Officials On Alert, Fast-Track Irrigation Works
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to prepare for heavy rainfall forecast under the influence of a developing weather system over the Bay of Bengal.
Five people were killed on Saturday morning following an accidental explosion involving gelatin sticks during road expansion work in Andhra Pradeshs Alluri Sitharama Raju district, police reported. Details of the Road Construction Blast The tragic incident occurred at Pinakota village within the Anantagiri mandal as workers were conducting rock blasting for a ghat road expansion [] The post Five Killed in Accidental Gelatin Blast During Road-Widening Work in Andhra Pradeshs Alluri Sitharama Raju District appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Cyclone threat looms over Bay of Bengal, heavy rain alert for south Bengal from Wednesday
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 24 (IANS) A cyclone is likely to develop over the Bay of Bengal in the coming days, raising the prospect of heavy rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds across several districts of West Bengal from Wednesday, the Regional Meteorological Centre in Kolkata said on Saturday. The developing system is likely to bring heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across large parts of south Bengal over the coming week, prompting the meteorological department to issue an advance weather warning. The meteorological office said a low-pressure area formed over the east-central and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal on Friday, accompanied by a cyclonic circulation extending up to 5.8 km above mean sea level. The system is expected to intensify into a depression on Saturday and move west-northwestwards. It may further strengthen into a deep depression on Sunday, with the possibility of developing into a cyclone over the sea by Monday morning. The system is likely to gain strength over the following two days and move towards the coastal areas of north Andhra Pradesh and south Odisha. Its influence may bring thunderstorms and heavy rainfall to several parts of south Bengal from Wednesday. Kolkata is likely to experience scattered light rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds from Wednesday to Friday. Wind speeds may reach 30 to 40 kmph during this period. Similar conditions are forecast for Howrah, Hooghly, North 24 Parganas, East Burdwan, West Burdwan, Birbhum, Murshidabad and Nadia districts. Heavy rainfall is also likely in several districts of south Bengal. South 24 Parganas and East Midnapore may experience continuous heavy rain from Wednesday to Friday. Purulia and Bankura are likely to receive heavy rainfall on Thursday and Friday. Scattered rain is forecast in South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore and West Midnapore on Tuesday. There is no weather warning for the West Bengal coast until Monday. However, fishermen have been advised against venturing into the sea from Tuesday, when a red warning will come into effect. Wind speeds along the coast are expected to range between 40 and 50 kmph, with gusts reaching 60 kmph. The sea is likely to remain rough. North Bengal may also witness unsettled weather later in the week. Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri and Alipurduar districts are likely to receive heavy rainfall on Thursday and Friday. Other northern districts may experience scattered rain and gusty winds reaching 30 to 40 kmph on both days. Meanwhile, Kolkata recorded a minimum temperature of 23.1 degrees Celsius on Saturday morning, 0.1 degrees above normal. The maximum temperature on Friday stood at 32.2 degrees Celsius, 0.5 degrees above normal.
Gelatin Explosives Misfire During Ghat Road Work, Teacher And Four Others Killed In Andhra Pradesh
Five lives were lost in a road construction accident in Andhra Pradesh on Saturday morning after an attempt to break rocks with explosives ended in a deadly blast. The explosion took place in Pinakota village of Ananthagiri mandal in Alluri Sitharama
Schools closed in six taluks of Nilgiris district in TN; Coimbatore bars special classes amid rain
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 24 (IANS) Schools in six taluks of the Nilgiris district were declared closed on Saturday following rain since Friday night, as wet weather continued across several parts of Tamil Nadu. District Collector Lakshmi Bhavya issued the order covering all schools in Udhagamandalam, Coonoor, Kotagiri, Kundah, Gudalur and Pandalur taluks. The holiday was announced in view of the continuing rainfall in these areas. In neighbouring Coimbatore district, the Collector announced a holiday for all categories of schools and directed managements against conducting special classes on Saturday. The instruction was issued amid forecasts of heavy rain, with schools told not to bring students in for additional teaching sessions. The directive applies to all types of schools across the district, the announcement said. The announcements came as rain affected the western districts and several central and southern parts of the State, bringing waterlogging to roads and disrupting travel in some localities. According to the weather information cited in the report, a low-pressure area has formed over the Bay of Bengal. The weather department indicated that the system could strengthen into a cyclone and move towards the Andhra PradeshOdisha coast, while Tamil Nadu could experience heavy rainfall. In Pudukkottai, heavy showers lashed urban areas for more than half an hour, bringing a marked change in the weather and cooler conditions. Tiruchirappalli city and its suburbs also received heavy rain. Water accumulated on several roads, making movement difficult for motorists and slowing traffic through affected stretches. The downpour left commuters negotiating waterlogged sections as rain continued across the region. Thanjavur witnessed a sudden spell of rain in the evening after a sunny morning. The showers brought relief to farmers, who welcomed the rainfall and its potential contribution to groundwater recharge. Rain in different parts of Karur Corporation similarly brought cooler conditions. However, overflowing rainwater on roads in Pallapatti caused inconvenience to residents and road users. In Theni district, widespread showers were reported from Andipatti, Bodinayakanur, Periyakulam and Cumbum. Thick fog covered the Bodimettu hill road, reducing visibility along the mountain stretch. Rain was also reported across the western belt, including the Nilgiris and Coimbatore, prompting the school-related announcements. The Nilgiris order specifically covered the six named taluks, while Coimbatores announcement included an express instruction that special classes should not be held during the holiday.
How IAS Vijaya Krishnan Turns Andhra Pradesh Schools Into Net Zero Campuses
IAS officer Vijaya Krishnan is transforming schools and hostels across Andhra Pradesh into net zero campuses through waste management, solar energy, and massive tree plantations.
Cyclone brewing as low pressure area forms in east-central, Southeast Bay of Bengal | Live
Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) lists Konaseema, West Godavari, Krishna, Guntur, Bapatla, Prakasam and the Rayalaseema districts for rain
Odisha Challenges Andhra Pradesh's Rural Poll Notice in Kotia at SC
Pujari said Kotia is an integral part of Odisha, and the state is taking legal and administrative steps to uphold its rights.
Odisha moves SC against Andhra Pradesh over Kotia polls notice
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has filed a contempt of court petition against the Andhra Pradesh government in the Supreme Court, challenging its notification to conduct panchayat elections in the disputed Kotia region in the states Koraput district. Odishas Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said the petition was filed through the district collector of Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Odisha moves Supreme Court against Andhra Pradesh over rural poll notice in Kotia area
While all the 28 villages under Kotia Gram Panchayat remain in Odisha territory, Andhra Pradesh has been claiming its rights over 21 villages. Odisha challenged this in the Supreme Court in 1968 and the court asked both States to maintain the status quo in 2006
No local body polls in Amaravati capital region villages of Andhra Pradesh
Elections in villages where land pooling is under way have been kept pending for the time being as the government is working on a separate governance framework for the mega capital city
Local body polls: 14 cases booked on the last day of nominations, says Andhra Pradesh DGP
36 platoons of Andhra Pradesh Special Police have been deployed as part of election bandobust
Cyclonic storm likely to hit North Andhra Pradesh coast on October 28, says IMD
Red warnings for extremely heavy rain issued for October 27 and 28; fishermen who have ventured into the sea asked to return to shore
Ktaka: Shivakumar reveals suspected sting bid using Meta glasses
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Oct 23 (IANS) Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has alleged that an industrialist who met him wearing Meta AI smart glasses may have been attempting to record their conversation as part of a suspected sting operation targeting him and Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan. In an interview with a prominent Kannada television channel recently, Shivakumar said he became suspicious when the industrialist, who had obtained an appointment through government officials, shifted the conversation from business to political strategies, including booth-level management and political developments. God has given me power. When they came to conduct a sting operation on me, nobody told me about it. In my experience, if I look at someone's face, I can figure out why they have come to meet me and what is on their mind, Shivakumar said. He said he meets thousands of people every day and believes he can read their intentions from their faces. Recalling the meeting, he said the industrialist initially spoke about business, as expected, but subsequently took him to an antechamber and opened a laptop. He should have spoken to me about business, but he started discussing politics. He explained how booth-level strategies worked and spoke about what they were doing and other political matters. He went on explaining things like a political psephologist. I looked at his face and became suspicious. I then noticed his spectacles, which raised further doubts, Shivakumar said. He said he subsequently directed officials to examine the individual's background and gather information about his meetings with other political leaders. According to Shivakumar, the background check revealed that the industrialist had worn Meta smart glasses during meetings with him and Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, but not during meetings with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and a Union Minister. He also referred to a meeting with an IT Minister, during which the individual allegedly did not wear the glasses. He wore the Meta glasses only when he came to V.D. Satheesan and me, Shivakumar said, citing the information gathered during the background check as the basis for his suspicion. However, Shivakumar did not name the industrialist or provide public evidence establishing that the glasses had been used to record either meeting. He also did not disclose the identities of the people allegedly involved in the suspected operation. The Chief Minister said he had obtained documents and maintained records relating to the episode. He indicated that he would disclose further details at an appropriate time. I knew who had been given the task. I have obtained documents and kept records. Not now. When the time comes, I will speak about it. This is not the time to discuss the matter, he said. Asked why no action had been taken against those allegedly involved in the sting operation, Shivakumar rejected the suggestion that the authorities had remained inactive. Who said no action has been taken? You just don't know. We are not disclosing it, that's all. We have taken all precautionary measures, he said. He maintained that the government had taken steps in response to the suspected operation but declined to provide details of the measures or any action initiated. Shivakumar further alleged that there was a plan to conduct sting operations targeting ministers in his Cabinet and warned that attempts could be made to entrap them through people working around them, telephone calls or other means. He said he had cautioned his Cabinet colleagues to remain vigilant and avoid falling into such traps. I knew that there was a plan to carry out sting operations against ministers around me. I knew who had been given the task. I indeed cautioned my Cabinet colleagues. As the head of the government, which is like a family, I had to tell them not to get trapped. What's wrong with that? he said. Shivakumar reiterated that he had informed the ministers as a precautionary measure and would reveal further information only when he considered the time appropriate. He maintained that he had documented the episode and possessed information about those who might have been involved, but said he would not disclose the names or records at this stage. The allegations have raised questions about the suspected use of wearable technology in political meetings. However, the Chief Minister's account, as presented in the interview, did not establish that the smart glasses had actually recorded conversations or that a sting operation had been conclusively carried out.
Andhra Pradesh local poll row: YSRCP alleges attacks, seeks central forces
TDP filed complaints before the SEC against alleged violence by YSRCP to stall local body election process. Following the SC directive, the SEC ruled that candidates in four of 19 municipalities will be given more time. Addressing a press conference, former chief minister and YSRCP president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy said that the Naidu-led government was not honouring the SC directive and was going ahead with the anarchy in the local body elections.
UK Court Dismisses Indias Appeal in Rakia Investment Dispute
Ruling upholds jurisdiction over Andhra Pradesh bauxite project claims
Weather tomorrow, October 24: IMD forecasts heavy rain in Tamil Nadu, Kerala; check state-wise list
Weather tomorrow 24 October: The IMD has forecast heavy rainfall across several states on October 24, with Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal, Kerala and Lakshadweep among the areas facing very heavy rainfall warnings. Thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds are likely in parts of southern, eastern and northern India. Rainfall activity is expected to continue in several regions through October 29, with extremely heavy rain forecast in parts of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh on subsequent dates.
Anantapur CII Summit Attracts 4,141 Crore Investments, Jobs In Rayalaseema
Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board (APEDB), in association with Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), organised the summit: Reports
AP Coast Bracing for Severe Cyclonic Storm on Oct. 27
IMD has warned of a possible severe cyclonic storm, Arnab, approaching north Andhra Pradesh around October 27, with heavy rainfall and gale winds.
YSRCP alleges police assault on former Andhra minister Rajini, seeks SECs intervention
Digital Desk | Tadepalli (Andhra Pradesh), Oct 23 (IANS) Former Andhra Pradesh minister Vidadala Rajini was allegedly pushed to the ground by a woman police officer. The incident occurred on Friday at the YSR Congress Party leaders residence in Chilakaluripet in Palnadu district. YSR Congress Party alleged that the Backward Classes leader was subjected to shocking treatment by the police. According to YSRCP, Chilakaluripet Rural Sub-Inspector Priyanka has forcefully pushed her to the ground. Alleging police assault on the former minister, YSRCP demanded an independent investigation by the State Election Commission and action against responsible officials. The video of the alleged police assault on the YSRCP leader was widely circulated on social media, with the opposition party highlighting it as another incident of police highhandedness during the ongoing nomination process for the local body elections. The opposition party alleged that Rajini, party in-charge for Chilakaluripet constituency, was placed under house arrest while she was trying to provide B-Forms to MPTC and ZPTC candidates. When Yadlapadu ZPTC candidate and Dalit leader Pandula Bullabbayi came to meet her, police stopped him at the gate. Rajini questioned why the party candidates were being prevented from entering her residence, YSRCP said. What crime did Rajini commit? Meeting our candidates? Providing B-Forms? Questioning police restrictions at her own house? asked the opposition party. YSRCP alleged that police are acting on the directions of TDP leaders, obstructing YSRCP candidates instead of protecting their democratic rights. This incident demands an independent investigation into those allegations. It strongly condemned the incident and demanded immediate action against the officer involved. We demand that the State Election Commission take immediate action, ensure the safety of our candidates and stop unlawful interference in the nomination process. Chandrababu Naidu must answer for the conduct of police under his government and the continuing complaints of obstruction during local body elections, the party said. Meanwhile, YSRCP leaders lodged a complaint with State Election Commissioner Anil Chandra Punetha over widespread violence, nomination obstruction and electoral irregularities by TDP workers. Addressing the media outside the SEC office, MLCs Lella Appi Reddy and Kalpalatha Reddy, along with Employees and Pensioners Wing State President Nalamaaru Chandrasekhar Reddy, demanded immediate intervention. Appi Reddy condemned the coalition government for obstructing YSRCP candidates even on the final day of nominations. Opposition leaders were placed under house arrest while ruling-party candidates enjoyed unrestricted access. Police and revenue officials were functioning as TDP workers, allowing nomination papers to be torn, candidates to be attacked, and cases to be registered against victims. Despite Supreme Court directions, the SEC provided limited relief in only four of the 19 affected municipalities. Issuing police escort instructions just 90 minutes before the deadline was meaningless for candidates travelling from villages. He demanded an extension, adequate protection and action against fabricated YSRCP nominations and withdrawals, while questioning new B-Form deadlines. He also sought cancellation of TDP's registration and warned of legal accountability for election irregularities. Kalpalatha Reddy condemned attacks on women, including saree-pulling and physical assaults, questioning the silence of the woman Home Minister V. Anitha. She demanded effective police protection and justice for affected candidates. Chandrasekhar Reddy criticised officials for witnessing attacks without intervening and demanded immediate action instead of meaningless announcements.
BPCL Q2 Results: Net profit declines 21% YoY to Rs 4,863 crore, revenue grows 29%
BPCL reported a 21.45% year-on-year decline in Q2 FY27 profit to Rs 4,863.05 crore, despite 29.78% revenue growth. Sequential performance rebounded sharply from a quarterly loss, while the company approved a subsidiary for its proposed Andhra Pradesh refinery.
IAS Dhatri Reddy Leaves London Banking Career to Build Andhra Pradesh
An IAS officer is helping widen access to entrepreneurship across Andhra Pradesh, with RTIH reporting support for over 2,500 startups and engagement with more than 5,200 founders.
Local body polls: Left parties accuse TDP-led alliance of subverting democracy in Andhra Pradesh
The alliance partners are using official machinery and police to prevent opposition candidates from filing nominations, allege CPI and CPI(M)
Prepared to face cyclonic system, people need not panic: Odisha Minister
Digital Desk | Bhubaneswar, Oct 23 (IANS) Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari on Friday assured the public that the state government is fully prepared and has completed all the preparations to tackle the impending cyclonic system. While speaking to media persons, Pujari urged the people not to panic as the state has extensive experience handling severe weather disasters and is ready to face such challenges. He said the administration is prepared for the worst-case scenario regardless of the final intensity of the cyclonic storm or landfall location. The minister stated that all concerned departments of the state government as well as district administrations are fully prepared to face any eventualities faced by the probable cyclone. There is no need to worry, nor is there any need to be perturbed. This cyclone will also come and pass. And to ensure there is no significant damage, the State Government has already put in place whatever arrangements are necessary, said Pujari. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), on Friday, a Low Pressure Area has formed over southeast and adjoining east central Bay of Bengal under the influence of the upper air cyclonic circulation in the region. It is most likely to persist over the same region and intensify into a depression on 24th October 2026. Thereafter, it is very likely to move west-northwestwards and intensify further into a deep depression on 25th October & into a cyclonic storm over the Westcentral Bay of Bengal by 26th October morning. It would then continue to intensify further and move west-northwestwards towards North Andhra Pradesh and adjoining South Odisha coasts during the subsequent 2 days, informed the IMD on Friday. Meanwhile, IMD Bhubaneswar director Manorama Mohanty said once a depression forms, the systems likely track will be indicated. She added that it is expected to move towards the west-northwest. The fishermen in Odisha have been advised not to venture into the sea along and off the Odisha Coasts on October 26th and 27. The intensity of rainfall in coastal areas of the state is expected to increase from October 27 evening. The state is expected to experience very heavy rainfall on October 29. However, on the 26th, coastal districts are likely to experience rainfall accompanied by lightning and thunder.
YSRCP alleges electoral fraud and bias by Andhra Pradesh State Election Commission
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BJD Delegation Visits Disputed Kotia to Resist Andhra Pradesh Panchayat Poll Move
Intensifying the political heat along the inter-state border, a 16-member delegation of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) visited the sensitive Kotia gram panchayat on Friday. The high-level party team headed to the region to assess ground realities, interact directly with local residents, and fiercely oppose the unilateral panchayat election process initiated by neighbouring Andhra Pradesh. [] The post BJD Delegation Visits Disputed Kotia to Resist Andhra Pradesh Panchayat Poll Move appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
ED Raids 15 locations in Telangana, Andhra over betting app scam
Hyderabad: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday, October 23, conducted simultaneous searches at 15 locations in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, including Hyderabad and Vijayawada, as part of an investigation into alleged online betting and fraudulent investment app networks. The searches were carried out under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) following an FIR registered 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 .
English Court of Appeal dismisses India's appeal in dispute with RAKIA
The English Court of Appeal has dismissed India's challenge to an arbitral tribunal's jurisdiction over a dispute brought by Ras Al Khaimah Investment Authority under the India-UAE Bilateral Investment Treaty. The dispute concerns the cancellation of a bauxite supply agreement for an Andhra Pradesh aluminium project involving RAKIA and the Penna Group.
Heavy rains lash TN, roads waterlogged; 17-yr-old killed
Heavy rains across Tamil Nadu have caused localised waterlogging and brought down temperatures, particularly in districts like Madurai and Virudhunagar. A tragic incident in Virudhunagar district saw a 17-year-old girl die and her mother injured after a house wall collapsed due to the downpour. Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department has forecast the formation of a cyclonic storm in the Bay of Bengal by October 26, which is expected to move towards North Andhra Pradesh and South Odisha coasts, though it poses no direct threat to Tamil Nadu.
Coalition not honouring SC directives: YS Jagan
Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and YSRCP president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy lambasted the coalition government for its indifference towards the Supreme Court directives and continuing its mockery of democracy in the local body elections and demanded the appointment of an amicus curiae to supervise the elections, besides deploying central forces and CCTV coverage of the election process. Speaking to the media here on Friday, YS Jagan Mohan Reddy said the Chandrababu government is not honouring the apex court directive and is going ahead with the anarchy in the local body elections, continuing its attacks on YSRCP candidates, snatching of ballot papers, police taking sides and the basic structure of democracy being threatened, drawing towards a constitutional crisis. The script in the ZPTC and MPTC nominations is no different, and YSRCP candidates, including women, were attacked, threatened, and nomination papers were snatched and torn away, he said and released a book titled
Cyclone Alert: IMD Predicts landfall by Oct 28 as Super Typhoon Champi Intensifies Globally
The Bay of Bengal is brewing a potential cyclonic storm that is projected to cross the North Andhra Pradesh and South Odisha coasts by the morning of October 28, according to India Meteorological Department (IMD) Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra. A low-pressure area has already formed over the east-central Bay of Bengal. It is expected to [] The post Cyclone Alert: IMD Predicts landfall by Oct 28 as Super Typhoon Champi Intensifies Globally appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
31 violence incidents reported in AP during poll nominations
Amaravati: At least 31 election-related incidents, including violence and nomination paper destruction were reported across 13 districts in Andhra Pradesh during local body poll nominations on Thursday, October 22, the state DGP has said. Director General of Police (DGP) Harish Kumar Gupta said 22 incidents involved violence, clashes or public order disturbances, while nine pertained 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 .
Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy alleges nomination irregularities in local body polls, accuses Chandrababu of
Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and YSRCP President YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Friday accused the Chandrababu Naidu-led government of electoral irregularities in local body elections, alleging that candidates were being prevented from filing nominations and questioning the role of the State Election Commission (SEC) and the police. Alleging that his party had submitted evidence of irregularities to the relevant authorities, Reddy said, We have been continuously placing all the blatant irregularities happening in these local body elections directly before the people of this state. Every piece of evidence we gathered was submitted to the State Election Commission, the Honorable Governor, and the Supreme Court. Claiming that the Supreme Court had pulled up the State Election Commission and the government after reviewing the evidence, Reddy questioned the alleged obstruction of candidates during the nomination process. He said, After reviewing our evidence, the Supreme Court pulled up...
Telangana CM Reddy calls for coordination among police forces of Southern states
Digital Desk | Hyderabad, Oct 23 (IANS) Telangana Chief Minister, A. Revanth Reddy, on Friday emphasised the need for coordination among the police forces of all Southern states. He called for establishing strong systems that foster coordination across state borders among the police forces of the states. Chief Minister Reddy was addressing a Southern Regional Police Coordination Committee (SRPCC) meeting at the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) here. Directors-General and Inspectors-General of Police from Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala, representatives from Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Puducherry and Lakshadweep and senior officials from Central agencies are attending the meeting. He told the officials that they bear the responsibility of transforming South India into a secure region. Chief Minister Reddy stated that the Government of Telangana is fully committed to sharing its technical infrastructure and ICCC systems with neighbouring states. He noted that the conference provides an opportunity to foster better coordination between the police departments and specialized units of the various states. Stating that safety and security are the very foundations of society, he said the public expects a police force that operates effectively, upholds ethical values, and functions with complete impartiality. In the current climate, where the nature of crime is constantly evolving, platforms like the SRPCC are crucial. Policing strategies must evolve, and reforms must be a continuous process. I am a firm believer in reforms. The resources we allocate to the police force are not merely an expenditure; I view them as an investment toward building a better society and ensuring the safety of our citizens, he said. He told the participants that Hyderabad police system has been reorganised into three distinct commissionerates which allows each Police Commissioner to focus specifically on a defined jurisdiction, thereby enabling the achievement of better outcomes. CM Reddy said the state government has established specialised units such as HYDRAA, EAGLE, and T-SAFE to focus specifically on various types of crimes. Currently, issues like cybercrime, drug trafficking, and traffic-related challenges have become critical. Each unitand every specialised divisionmust prioritise technological integration and training to achieve the best possible outcomes, he said. The Chief Minister claimed that the reforms implemented in Telangana are yielding positive results. The Telangana Police Department is gaining recognition and acclaim at both national and international levels for its efforts in areas such as drug control, the prevention of cybercrime, and the eradication of Naxalism, he said. He pointed out that during the PRAGATI review meeting chaired by the Prime Minister, Telangana was ranked first in the country for its control of cybercrime. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has commended our police officers for their efforts in transforming Telangana into a completely Naxal-free state. He mentioned that the EAGLE unit has received a score of over 80 per cent from the Central Government for its performance in drug control. The Telangana Cyber Security Bureau has set new benchmarks in recovering and returning funds lost by victims of cybercrime. We have launched a new unit called TG-SAFEmodelled after the U.S. FDAto coordinate the efforts of various departments in curbing food adulteration and regulating pharmaceuticals, he said. Our HYDRAA unit is earning public appreciation for its work in protecting and restoring lakes, ponds, and other water bodies, effectively reviving their former glory. HYDRAA is also working towards the protection of government and public assets, he added. CM Reddy claimed that Telangana has become the first state in the country to appoint transgender individuals as traffic assistants within the Hyderabad Traffic Police department. He stated that the welfare of police force is also a matter of utmost importance to the state. Police personnel fight for the state and work tirelessly for the safety of the public. When necessary, they even sacrifice their lives in the line of duty. Ensuring their welfare and the future of their families is one of my top priorities, he added. Telangana DGP CV Anand, Karnataka DGP Dr. M.A. Saleem, Tamil Nadu DGP Dr. Mahesh Aggarwal, Puducherry DGP Shalini Singh, Lakshadweep ADG B. Shankar Jaiswal, Kerala IG Ajitha Begum, Andhra Pradesh IGP Ravi Krishna, Director of EAGLE Sandeep Shandilya, Director of the Telangana Cybersecurity Bureau (TGCSB) Shikha Goel and others attended the meeting.
AP Intermediate Time Table 2027 Released - AP Inter 1st, 2nd Year Exam Dates and PDF
Board of Intermediate Education, Andhra Pradesh (BIEAP), has issued the tentative Intermediate Public Examinations 2027 timetable dated 22 October 2026. First-year theory examinations are scheduled from 24 February to 15 March 2027, while second-year examinations will be conducted from 25 February to 16 March 2027. All theory papers will be held from 9 AM to 12 noon. Practical examinations begin on 1 February 2027. Students can check the subject-wise schedules for regular, backlog and old-syllabus candidates and obtain the latest timetable through the official BIEAP website.
India Batter Sabbineni Meghana Announces Retirement From All Forms Of Cricket
Royal Challengers Bangalore: Indian women's team top-order batter Sabbineni Meghana has announced her retirement from all the forms of cricket on Friday. A solid top-order batter Meghana, born in Andhra Pradesh, represented Railways in the domestic circuit. She made her international debut in a WODI series against New Zealand in 2022. Meghana represented India in three ODIs and 17 T20Is. She was then part of the Indian team that won silver at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. However, she has since failed to break into the T20 setup and missed out on subsequent ICC events. Stepping onto the field for the very first time with a bat in hand to wear a jersey on world stage has been nothing short of a dream come true. As I announce my retirement from all formats of cricket as a player, my heart is overflowing with gratitude. The field has been my second home, teaching me resilience, humility, and giving me memories and friendships that I will carry for a lifetime, Meghana wrote in a social media post. To my family, who stood by me through every peak and valley, thank you for your endless sacrifices. To my coaches, teammates, support staff, thank you for pushing me to be my best and sharing the dressing room with me. And to the fans, your cheers under the floodlights fuelled every single stride I took, she wrote. Meghana was signed by the Gujarat Giants in the inaugural edition of the WPL and moved to Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2024. She was part of the RCB squad that lifted the trophy in 2024. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the BCCI, the Andhra Cricket Association, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Gujarat Giants, and RSPB for their constant support, guidance, and backing throughout my career. Thank you for giving me the platform and opportunities to pursue my passion at the highest level, Meghana added. Meghana was signed by the Gujarat Giants in the inaugural edition of the WPL and moved to Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2024. She was part of the RCB squad that lifted the trophy in 2024. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Low-pressure area over Bay of Bengal, cyclonic storm likely next week
Digital Desk | Amaravati, Oct 23 (IANS) A low-pressure area has formed over the east-central and southeastern Bay of Bengal and it is likely to strengthen into a cyclonic storm. Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority said on Friday that the low-pressure area is expected to intensify into a depression in the same region by October 24, and further into a deep depression on October 25. Prakhar Jain, Managing Director, State Disaster Management Authority, said by October 26 morning, it is likely to strengthen into a cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal. Over the subsequent two days, it is projected to move towards the coast of North Andhra Pradesh and South Odisha. Under its influence, widespread rainfall is expected across Andhra Pradesh. The general public and the farming community are advised to take precautionary measures. Fishermen currently out at sea have been urged to return to the shore immediately. Due to the influence of a low-pressure system over the Tamil Nadu and Kerala regions, scattered heavy rains are expected in the Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh today. Light to moderate rainfall, accompanied by lightning in some places, is expected on October 24 and October 25. Widespread rainfall is anticipated across the state starting October 26. Heavy rainfall is likely in isolated areas. Strong gusty winds, reaching speeds of 6070 kmph, are expected along the coast. Meanwhile, India Meteorological Department said that under the influence of Thursdays upper-air cyclonic circulation over Southeast and adjoining East-Central Bay of Bengal, a low-pressure area formed over East-Central and adjoining Southeast Bay of Bengal today. It is most likely to persist over the same region and intensify into a depression on Saturday. Thereafter, it is very likely to move west-northwestwards and intensify further into a deep depression on October 25 and into a cyclonic storm over the West-Central Bay of Bengal by October 26 morning. It would then continue to intensify further and move west-northwestwards towards North Andhra Pradesh and adjoining South Odisha coasts during subsequent two days.
Andhra SEC extends nomination process in four urban local bodies
Andhra Pradesh State Election Commission has extended the nomination period for four Urban Local Bodies. This decision follows a directive from the Supreme Court after incidents of violence during the initial nomination process. YSR Congress Party raised concerns regarding the safety of their candidates, resulting in the court's intervention. The final list of candidates will now be published on October 25 before the elections are held on November 1.
Cyclonic storm likely by October 26; heavy rain in Coastal Andhra from October 27: IMD
The system is forecast to move towards the north Andhra Pradesh and south Odisha coasts after October 26
Banni Utsavam Stick Fight Turns Fatal, Leaves 1 Dead And Multiple Injured In Andhra Pradesh
A centuries-old Dasara ritual in Kurnool turned tragic despite extensive security, leaving one devotee dead and multiple injured.
AP Inter Exam Date 2027: BIEAP Announces 1st and 2nd Year Timetable
The Board of Intermediate Education, Andhra Pradesh (BIEAP) has announced the examination schedule for the AP Intermediate Public Examinations 2027 for first-year and second-year students. According to the timetable provided, the AP Inter 1st Year examinations will be held from
Andhra Pradesh Inter Exam Date Sheet 2027 Out: Check 1st, 2nd Year Theory Exam Schedule
The AP Intermediate board date sheet 2027 for 1st and 2nd year exam has been released on the official website, bie.ap.gov.in. The first-year exam 2027 will be held from February 24 to March 15, 2027.
India's longest train journey, the Vivek Express, connects Dibrugarh in Assam to Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu, covering around 4,188 km in approximately 75 hours. The journey takes passengers through several states, from Assam's tea gardens and the plains of Bengal to the cities of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, before reaching the greener landscapes of Kerala and the southern coastline. Here is what travellers can see along the route and how to plan the trip.
Four pilgrims killed after speeding SUV hits devotees on NH16 in Andhra Pradesh
Three people were killed on the spot, while another person died on the way to hospital.
Municipal polls in Andhra deferred to Nov 1 following SC order
Municipal polls in Andhra deferred to Nov 1 following SC order Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh State Election Commission has postponed the polling for Urban Local Body elections in the state to November 1, following the Supreme Court direction to postpone the publication of the final list of contesting candidates to October 25 and extend the nomination [] The post Municipal polls in Andhra deferred to Nov 1 following SC order appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
How India thwarted Pakistans bid to steal crucial defence data
Officers of the Counter Intelligence Cell of Andhra Pradesh, intrigued by a slew of messaging patterns across various social media platforms, busted a major digital honey-trap racket, including the Indian conduits, whose motive was to leak sensitive defence details, specifically Naval intelligence, to the neighbouring countrys Inter-Services Intelligence, writes Sumit Bhattacharjee
Candidates can now file their nomination papers on October 23 and 24, from 11 am to 3 pm, at the designated locations and respective Collectorates
While Odisha claims that these villages are part of Pottangi block in Odishas Koraput district, Andhra Pradesh asserts that these villages fall under Salur block of Parvathipuram Manyam district. Former Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik, former Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan and other Odisha leaders have objected to the Andhra governments notification.
AP To Raise Excess Water Drawal By Telangana At KRMB Meeting
Andhra Pradesh will raise concerns over Telanganas alleged excess drawal of Krishna water from Srisailam and seek a halt to lift irrigation projects at the KRMB meeting on October 26.
BJD Delegation to Visit Kotia Panchayat Amid Election-Related Concerns
A BJD delegation will visit Kotia Panchayat on October 23 to address concerns over alleged election activities by Andhra Pradesh. BJD Delegation to Visit Kotia Panchayat Amid Election-Related Concerns
Naidu, Pawan Discuss Poll Strategy, Fake WhatsApp Channel
Andhra Pradesh CM N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy CM K. Pawan Kalyan discussed local body poll preparations, alliance coordination and an alleged fake WhatsApp channel.
AP couple held in Hyderabad for chain snatching to fund wedding
Hyderabad: A couple from Andhra Pradesh was arrested for chain snatching in Hyderabad on Wednesday, October 21. They committed the offence to fund their wedding. Initially, the couple moved to Hyderabad and planned to get jobs and save up for their wedding. However, they turned to chain-snatching and were arrested. The accused, Annapu Reddy Durga 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 .
Koraput Sub-Collector Visits Kotia, Engages Locals Amid Renewed Odisha-Andhra Border Dispute
With the decades-old border dispute between Odisha and Andhra Pradesh over the Kotia region flaring up once again, the district administration has moved into action mode. Koraput Sub-Collector Fabi Rasheed, IAS, visited the Kotia area, holding direct interactions with local residents, inquiring about their problems, and assessing ground realities. During the visit, Sub-Collector Rasheed gathered [] The post Koraput Sub-Collector Visits Kotia, Engages Locals Amid Renewed Odisha-Andhra Border Dispute appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Rainfall alerts remain in place for October 23 across several states and Union territories, with the IMD forecasting heavy rain in Coastal Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh and continued rainfall over Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Lakshadweep and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Thunderstorms and gusty winds are also expected in parts of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, while Odisha is forecast to face thundersqualls on October 27 and 28.
Andhra Pradesh Intermediate Public Examinations to begin on February 24, 2027
Board of Intermediate Education, Andhra Pradesh releases tentative timetable for the first and second-year Intermediate Public Examinations 2027
Andhra Pradesh Home Minister rushes injured students to hospital
Violence mars AP local polls, TDP tears up YSRCP nomination papers
Amaravati: The Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP) in Andhra Pradesh has alleged that the ruling Telugu Desam Party is using violence to prevent candidates from filing nominations for the upcoming Mandal Parishad Territorial Constituency (MPTC) and Zilla Parishad Territorial Constituency (ZPTC) polls. At least three incidents surfaced where TDP supporters were caught on camera 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 .
Royal Sandur Group company forays into medical devices and consumables
A long-term lease deed was executed between Royal Sandur MedTech Private Limited and Andhra Pradesh MedTech Zone Limited for setting up a manufacturing unit
One killed, 70 people injured in Banni festival in Andhra Pradesh
Nearly 3,000 people clash with each other with sticks as per the rituals at Devaragattu Hills near Sri Malamalleswara Swamy temple
One killed, 70 people injured in Banni festival in Andhra Pradesh
Nearly 3,000 people clash with each other with sticks as per the rituals at Devaragattu Hills near Sri Malamalleswara Swamy temple
According to the 16-year-old survivors statement, she was taken from Andhra Pradesh to Bengaluru and then to Chennai before being brought to Keralam
Andhra Pradesh: 1 Killed, Over 100 Injured in Devaragattu Banni Utsav Stick Fight
Centre extends Andhra Pradesh Chief Secretary G. Sai Prasads tenure till May 2027
The 1991-batch IAS officer, who took charge in February, gets a second six-month extension on the State governments request
Bismillah Colony residents struggle amid lack of basic amenities
Hyderabad: Bismillah Colony in Shaheennagar, inhabited by working-class families and located within the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) limits, presents a grim picture of civic neglect, with residents struggling to cope without basic infrastructure. Poor roads, inadequate drainage and a lack of streetlights have made daily life difficult for residents. Dirty water flowing onto roads 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 .
Why are Andhra Pradeshs civic poll nominations under the Supreme Courts scrutiny? | Explained
The Supreme Court has asked the State Election Commission to decide where candidates were unable to file nominations
NDA Accuses YSRCP Of 'Obstructing' Andhra Local Body Polls, Reaffirms Respect For CEC
The YSRCP had approached the apex court through a Special Leave Petition (SLP), challenging the Andhra Pradesh High Court's October 18 order refusing to extend the nomination deadline, which ended on the same day
Tragic Incident at Andhra Pradeshs Traditional Stick Fight Claims One Life, Over 100 Injured
A traditional stick fight in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, resulted in one death and over 100 injuries during the Dussehra festival. Tragic Incident at Andhra Pradeshs Traditional Stick Fight Claims One Life, Over 100 Injured
Andhra Pradesh SEC halts urban local body elections following SC order
Andhra Pradesh State Election Commission has stopped the election process for 100 urban local bodies as directed by the Supreme Court. This includes 13 Municipal Corporations and 87 Municipalities, among others. The halt comes after YSRCP filed a petition challenging the nomination deadline extension refusal. The Supreme Court ordered a postponement of the final candidate list publication until October 25.
Four killed as speeding SUV hits Bhavani devotees in Andhra's Kakinada
Digital Desk | Amaravati, Oct 22 (IANS) At least four Bhavani devotees were killed when a speeding SUV rammed into them in Andhra Pradeshs Kakinada district on Thursday, police said. Another devotee was also injured in the accident that occurred near Kathipudi in Prathipadu constituency. According to police, the accident occurred when the devotees were crossing the road to have tea after the bus in which they were travelling broke down. The bus, carrying devotees from Vizianagaram district, was on its way to Vijayawada. They were heading to Vijayawada for darshan at Sri Kanaka Durga Temple. As the vehicle had stopped due to some technical problem, a few devotees got down and headed to a nearby tea stall. In the meantime, a speeding vehicle coming from Etcherla in Srikakulam district rammed into the devotees. Three of them died on the spot, while another devotee was injured. The deceased were identified as C. Yerraiah (38), L. Sitaram (45), T. Shivaprasad (40) and B.R. Sattibabu (40). Police rushed to the spot and shifted the injured to a local hospital. The bodies of the deceased were taken to a government hospital for post-mortem examination. Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has expressed grief over the accident in which four Bhavani devotees lost their lives. He stated that it is heartbreaking that devotees who had completed their vow and were on their way to have darshan of Kanaka Durga lost their lives midway. He conveyed deep condolences to the families of the deceased. The Deputy Chief Minister spoke with the Kakinada District Collector over the phone and gathered details about the incident. The District Collector explained that the accident occurred when a vehicle came speeding from behind, hitting the devotees after they all got down from the bus that had stopped near Ravikampadu Junction and were heading to a nearby hotel. Pawan Kalyan directed that a full-scale investigation be conducted into the incident and that the injured be provided the best medical treatment. He assured that the coalition government will extend all support to the families of the deceased.
Gujarat minister, leaders pray at temple; service-oriented activities planned on HM Shahs birthday
Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Oct 22 (IANS) On Amit Shahs birthday, Gujarat Minister Pravin Mali on Thursday offered prayers at Shri Siddheshwar Mahadev Temple in Gandhinagar for the Union Home Ministers long and healthy life. Mali said service-oriented activities have been organised across the country to mark the birthday of the senior BJP leader. City unit chief Ashish Dave joined Mali to offer prayers at the Shri Siddheshwar Mahadev Temple, located within the Swaminarayan Temple complex in Sector 2. Speaking to IANS, Mali said, Events have been planned in the entire nation on the occasion of Amit Shahs birthday. In Gandhinagar, all party workers and leaders went to the Gaushala, served the cows, and offered prayers to Mahadev for Amit Shah jis long life. All party workers and leaders took part in offering the prayers equally. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended warm birthday greetings to HM Shah and praised his efforts in strengthening India's internal security, eliminating Maoism and making efforts to eradicate the drug menace from society. Taking to X, PM Modi said, Warm birthday greetings to Home Minister Shri Amit Shah Ji. His administrative understanding has ensured India's internal security systems become more effective. Particularly noteworthy are the successes in eliminating the menace of Maoism and in furthering our dream of a society free from drugs, he said. I pray that he is blessed with a long and healthy life in service of the people, the Prime Minister added. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Andhra Pradesh Minister for Human Resources Development and Information Technology Nara Lokesh also extended birthday greetings to HM Shah, praising his commitment to national security and the vision of a 'Viksit Bharat'. CM Yogi praised HM Shah as a skilled strategist, while hailing his unparalleled contribution in strengthening the internal security of the nation. Your unparalleled contribution in making internal security impregnable, giving a new direction to the cooperation sector, and building a strong and secure India is invaluable, he said. I pray to Lord Shri Ram for your excellent health, long life, and a glorious life, the UP Chief Minister added. HM Shah was born to Gujarati parents in 1964 in Mumbai. He is considered one of the BJP's chief strategists and a close confidant of PM Modi. His political career has been marked by several key milestones, including the abrogation of Article 370, the enforcement of major internal security reforms, and a focus on cooperative federalism.
Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP) alleged attacks, violence and intimidation against its candidates, leaders and workers across Andhra Pradesh on Thursday--the second day of nominations for the Mandal Parishad Territorial Constituency (MPTC) and Zilla Parishad Territorial Constituency (ZPTC) elections. YSRCP alleged that from early morning, police arrested and placed several senior party leaders under house arrest to prevent them from participating in the nomination process. YSRCP accused the police of remaining silent while alleging attacks against its candidates from TDP leaders and cadres. Kadapa MP YS Avinash Reddy was arrested by police while trying to ensure that YSRCP candidates could file their nominations. Earlier in the morning, a large number of police personnel surrounded his residence in Pulivendula and attempted to place him under house arrest. Police prevented him from moving out and participating in the election process. Several important YSRCP leaders w...
YSRCP accuses TDP and police of violence in Andhra Pradesh polls
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Andhra Deputy CM orders legal action against fake WhatsApp channel
Digital Desk | Amaravati, Oct 22 (IANS) Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan on Thursday ordered legal action against a fake WhatsApp channel operating in the name of 'Deputy CMO'. According to a statement from the Deputy Chief Ministers Office, the WhatsApp channel operating under the name Deputy CMO, Andhra Pradesh is not an authorised channel of the Deputy Chief Ministers Office. This unauthorised channel is misusing the Offices identity and circulating misleading information and unrelated content. Such impersonation and the deliberate spread of misinformation are unacceptable and will be dealt with firmly. An FIR is being initiated, and strict legal action will be pursued against those responsible, said the statement posted on the X handle of the Deputy Chief Ministers Office. The public is strongly advised NOT to trust, follow or circulate content from this fake channel. Please rely exclusively on the officially authorised social media handles and the verified WhatsApp channel of the Deputy Chief Ministers Office for authentic information and official updates. Misuse of a Government Offices identity will not be tolerated. Those responsible will be held accountable in accordance with the law, it added. Meanwhile, the Deputy Chief Minister has greeted Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah on his birthday. May you be blessed with good health, strength and a long life to continue serving our nation with dedication. Wishing you many more years of service towards a secure, prosperous and Viksit Bharat, he said. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has also conveyed his warmest birthday greetings to Amit Shah. Your unwavering dedication, strong leadership, and tireless efforts for the nations security and unity continue to inspire us all. Wishing you good health, happiness, and many more years of service to our great nation, he said. Minister for Human Resources Development and Information Technology, Nara Lokesh, has also greeted Amit Shah. Your resolve to keep our nation secure and your tireless work for a Viksit Bharat inspire millions of us. Andhra Pradesh is grateful for your steady support to the people of our state. Wishing you good health, happiness and many more years of service to the nation, said Lokesh.
Bihar's prohibition fails to curb narcotics as 'kota' spreads to rural areas: Report
Digital Desk | Patna, Oct 22 (IANS) Bihar's prohibition policy has coincided with a sharp rise in narcotics-related cases registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, with cases increasing from 697 in 2019 to 1,905 in early 2026, according to a recent investigative report in a leading daily. Seizures of drug pills have reportedly increased 30-fold, while heroin use is also on the rise, according to an investigative report published by The Indian Express. The investigation has highlighted the emergence of a new drug, locally known as 'kota', which is reportedly smuggled into Bihar from Nepal and the Northeast. The substance is transported in everyday items such as soap boxes and clothing before reaching consumers, including those in rural areas. At the same time, de-addiction centres are struggling to cope with demand, with some facilities reportedly serving up to 20 times their intended number of patients, the report shows. According to the report, although police seize thousands of litres of illicit liquor every day, the narcotics trade has continued to expand across the state. The growing availability of drugs has also raised concerns about increasing substance use among juveniles, highlighting a possible shift from alcohol consumption towards more dangerous intoxicating substances. The report points out that the spread of drugs has received less attention than the movement of illicit liquor. Beyond smuggled bottles, a parallel network of intoxicants is taking shape, involving pocket-sized packets, strips of tablets, heroin, the distinctive variant known as 'kota', small vials and drugs concealed in soap boxes or even folds of clothing such as petticoats. Experts cited in the investigation have also pointed to a change in the profile of people seeking treatment for substance dependence. The concern, they said, is not limited to the growing number of patients, as the types of substances being consumed are changing as well. Earlier, a larger proportion of users depended on cannabis and other plant-based substances; this is now shifting rapidly towards semi-synthetic and synthetic drugs, with an increasing number of patients reportedly seeking help for heroin dependence. The investigation further underlines the significant role played by geography in shaping Bihar's narcotics trade, with the state's location making it vulnerable to drug trafficking routes from neighbouring countries and the Northeast. Describing the network as a 'Death Triangle', the report examines how heroin, the raw-heroin variant 'kota' and synthetic drugs enter Bihar through the Northeast, while also tracing the routes through which ganja and poppy husk reach the state, based on information provided by police. The 'Death Triangle' refers to the Golden Triangle region of Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand, which has increasingly shifted its illegal production from traditional opium and heroin toward synthetic drugs like methamphetamine and a raw heroin variant known locally as 'kota', according to the report. It notes that clandestine laboratories in Myanmar manufacture methamphetamine. Boxes containing 'kota' are reportedly transported from Myanmar in ready-made form. It further shows that high-grade heroin, methamphetamine and 'kota' enter India through porous stretches of the borders adjoining Mizoram and Manipur. From there, consignments are transported along the Champhai-Aizawl-Silchar route into Assam. A relatively new supply route, reportedly running from Changlang to Tinsukia, is also believed to help traffickers bypass existing checks. According to the report, carriers travel to the Northeast, collect boxes containing drugs and return by train. Some consignments are routed through districts in Bihar, including East Champaran, Kishanganj, Vaishali and Bhojpur. Once inside the state, the substances are distributed through tea shops, paan and cigarette outlets, as well as roadside sellers. The investigation reveals that ganja enters Bihar through multiple routes, including Nepal, Tripura, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh; poppy husk is sourced from Nepal, Jharkhand and locations within Bihar itself, and charas is reportedly sourced mainly from Nepal and largely transported onwards rather than retained within Bihar. Within this expanding trade, police officers and social workers have identified 'kota' as a new substance appearing in Bihar's drug market. The report quoted a narcotics officer explaining how the term may have originated and gradually become associated with the substance itself. The name appears to have originated from the word 'dose'. In local parlance, addicts and peddlers refer to a drug dose as a 'quota', and over time, the substance itself came to be known among users as 'kota', the officer was quoted as saying. The police are particularly concerned about the spread of inexpensive drugs among economically disadvantaged communities, especially juveniles. Social workers who work with street children in Patna have repeatedly raised concerns about the growing accessibility of intoxicating substances to vulnerable young people, according to the report. The investigation also highlighted that a national survey cited in a 2023 report of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Social Justice and Empowerment provides one of the closest broad estimates of substance use among juveniles in Bihar. The survey estimated that around 99,000 children aged between 10 and 17 years in the state used cannabis, while approximately 40,000 used opioids and 29,000 used inhalants. It also estimated that about 8,000 children in the same age group used sedatives. The Opposition raised concerns over the reported spread of narcotics in Bihar and questioned the lack of attention given to drug-related problems in Bihar. Tagging Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Manoj Jha took to X to react to the development, writing, Don't stop talking about Punjab but look at Bihar too. Speaking to IANS, Jha said, An entire generation has been ruined. This is what happens when the government has no control. The situation here is completely out of control. The government here has lost control of the situation. I want people to give undivided attention to this issue. This problem is wiping out an entire generation of the state. That is why I tagged HM Shah in my post and urged him to give attention to Bihar also, he added.
4 Killed After Scorpio Rams Pilgrims In Andhra Pradesh
The devotees were walking towards a roadside tea stall when the Scorpio, reportedly travelling at high speed, hit them.
NDA accuses YSRCP of trying to stop Andhra local body polls through conspiracies
Digital Desk | Amaravati, Oct 22 (IANS) The ruling National Democratic Alliance in Andhra Pradesh said it respects the decision of the State Election Commission to pause the election process for Urban Local Bodies following the Supreme Court direction, but accused opposition YSR Congress Party of trying to stop local body elections through conspiracies. Top leaders of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), Jana Sena Party (JSP) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) issued a joint statement after the State Election Commission (SEC) decided to stop, forthwith, the election process in all 100 Urban Local Bodies. On a petition by the YSRCP, the Supreme Court on Wednesday directed the SEC to postpone the final list of candidates till October 25. The SEC will take a decision on Thursday on extending the last date of filing nominations in Urban Local Bodies, wherever it is of the view that candidates were unable to file their nominations due to the law and order situation. Chief Minister and TDP national president N. Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister and JSP president Pawan Kalyan and state BJP president P.V.N. Madhav said in the joint statement that the alliance government is committed to ensuring that elections are transparent, democratic and peaceful. We contested the 2024 elections with a promise to rebuild Andhra Pradesh. The people placed their trust in us and gave the alliance the responsibility to govern. For the past two years, we have focused on welfare, development and good governance. We have restored peoples confidence and created an environment where they can live peacefully, they said. Local body elections are now being held. We believe that strong local bodies are essential for the overall development of the state. Timely elections are also important for receiving funds from the 16th Finance Commission and the Central government. Our aim is to complete the elections within the prescribed time and take development forward through local self-government. They alleged that the YSR Congress Party has shown no responsibility towards public welfare or the states development. They accused the party of trying to stop local body elections from the very beginning. It has approached various courts 59 times in an attempt to halt the process. Now that the hurdles have been cleared and elections are underway, YSRCP has provoked violence in several places, attacked police personnel and dug up roads built for the public. It continues to look for ways to disrupt the elections, the NDA leaders said. At this point, people should also recall how local body elections were conducted during the YSRCP government. Violence and intimidation created fear across the State. Opposition candidates were prevented from even filing nominations. YSRCP then celebrated these forced outcomes as victories, reads the statement. Today, when local elections are being conducted lawfully, YSRCP is making every effort to obstruct them. This reflects its approach of intimidation and suppression, they alleged. The NDA leaders said the TDP, JSP and BJP have firm faith in democracy. We will extend our full cooperation to ensure that elections are conducted fairly, honestly and peacefully. We will respect any decision taken by the State Election Commission. Our goal is clear: elections must be held in accordance with the Constitution, people must be free to elect good leaders, and the benefits of development must reach every household, they added.
