Harish sees coalition government, suspects Cong-BJP tie-up in Telangana

HYDERABAD: Predicting a coalition government at the Centre, former minister T Harish Rao on Saturday alleged that Congress and BJP have struck a secret deal to win eight Lok Sabha seats each of the 17 in Telangana. The BRS leader also said that the Congress should seek votes only after implementing its six guarantees. The Congress bond paper has bounced. The people have decided to punish the Congress, Harish said, asking Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy to explain why he was not denying the claims of BJP leaders D Arvind and A Maheshwar Reddy that he would join the saffron party. Harish participated in a meet the press programme organised by Telangana Union of Working Journalists (TUWJ) here. He alleged that there was no governance in the state since the chief minister was focused on revenge politics. The Congress failed to fulfil its promises made during the Assembly elections. BRS social media workers are being harassed by the police. The Congress said in its manifesto that it was against defections, but after coming to power, it is encouraging defections, the former minister said He said that people hailing from residuary Andhra Pradesh want Hyderabad to be continued as a common capital for both states. Revanth Reddy has Andhra roots. People of Telangana should be alert. BJP and Congress gave seven mandals from Telangana to AP for political reasons. People want the BRS to win to protect the interests of Telangana. Protecting the interests of the state is only possible with the BRS, the former minister said. He alleged that in the past 10 years, BJP did nothing for Telangana and hence it has no right to seek votes. The BJP rule has not benefited any section. Prices of gas, diesel and petrol have increased and have caused trouble to the people, he said. Asserting that KCRs bus yatra was getting good response from the people, Harish said that the BRS would get more votes than the Congress and BJP in the Lok Sabha elections. I see a silent revolution on the horizon. BRS belongs to every community. BRS is a party that treats Hindu- Muslims as two eyes. I am asking Muslims, Christians and other minorities to support BRS, Harish said.

BRS leaders stir the pot with comments on Hyderabad

HYDERABAD: BRS leaders, especially partys working president KT Rama Rao and former minister T Harish Rao, have stirred the political cauldron in the state with their recent statements regarding the status of Hyderabad after June 2. It all began with Rama Rao claiming that the BJP would make Hyderabad a Union Territory if it is returned to power at the Centre. Given the fact that there was not even a mention regarding the status of Hyderabad in the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections, Rama Raos statement sparked speculation within political circles. Meanwhile, Harish Rao suggested that the BJP could continue Hyderabad as a common capital for both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. As per the AP Reorganisation Act, Hyderabad will remain a common capital for both the states for 10 years after bifurcation. This period will conclude on June 2. Harish also accused Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy of clandestinely supporting the common capital idea as he has ties to Andhra Pradesh. While there is no proof of the claims by the BRS leaders, the fact that they are being repeated has led to analysts wondering about the motive behind these statements. Interestingly, both the BJP and Congress have preferred to remain silent on these comments, fueling speculation. Analysts say that extending Hyderabads common capital status is unlikely without amendments to the AP Reorganisation Act. They believe that Rama Raos Union Territory claim is merely a political tactic. Meanwhile, the BRS leaders continue to repeat these statements, hoping to get public support. Whether they are able to swing the voters in the favour of the BRS is a question that can only be answered when the votes are counted.

Chambal Ravines: Caste Dynamics Persist Despite Diminished Banditry

Chambal Ravines: Caste Dynamics Persist Despite Diminished Banditry Madhya Pradesh's Chambal region, once the staple for Bollywood's dacoit and gunslinger dramas, is also a massive caste cauldron where change is seeping in due to modernisation, say a section of people. The Gwalior-Chambal region, which is in the northern part of the state, borders Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan and has three seats, namely Gwalior, Morena and Bhind, which is reserved for Scheduled Castes. A part of the Chambal region is in Shivpuri district and falls under Guna Lok Sabha seat. Gwalior, Morena and Bhind (SC) Lok Sabha seats are dominated by Other Backward Classes with a sizable population of SCs. Of the 24 assembly constituencies falling under these three Lok Sabha seats, the Congress had won 13 and the BJP 12 in the November 2023 elections, which was otherwise swept by the ruling party. Of the eight assembly segments of Gwalior and Bhind Lok Sabha seats, the BJP and the Congress won four each, while in Morena, the score was five in favour of the Congress and four for the BJP. The three assembly seats in Shivpuri were swept by the BJP. Bhuvnesh Singh Tomar, a professor at Centre for Studies in Journalism and Mass Communication in Gwalior's Jiwaji University, told PTI that caste sentiments were rooted even when the Gwalior-Chambal region was infested with bandits, dacoits or ''baghis'' (rebels) as these outlaws loved to call themselves. ''Casteism in politics is not new. It always existed in the Chambal region, except on occasions when towering leaders, like those from the Scindia family, contested. But a lot of social changes have taken place in the past three decades due to increased road connectivity and modernisation,'' Tomar said. Over the last two decades, the Dalits and backwards have become assertive and are playing a dominant role in politics, he said. ''The last two Lok Sabha elections in this area were held around the narrative set by the BJP. The indication this time is not clear as campaigning is very low-key. BJP candidates were looking weak earlier as the party fielded leaders from Gwalior and Morena, who lost polls earlier,'' he said. However, a strong organisational set-up and the Narendra Modi effect will benefit BJP candidates, Tomar claimed, adding that several leaders from the Congress, including sitting party MLA from Vijaypur (Morena LS seat) Ramniwas Rawat have joined the ruling dispensation. Devesh Sharma, a Morena-based lawyer, claimed caste politics had managed to segregate society, government offices, markets etc in the past three to four decades. ''Caste came first and then nationalism for the people of this region, which inspired so many films due to its ravines and bandits. These bandits used to influence politics in rural areas earlier but those days are long gone,'' he said. KK Mishra, media advisor to state Congress chief Jitu Patwari, told PTI that his party will win half the Lok Sabha seats in the Gwalior-Chambal region. ''Gwalior-Chambal region has traditionally supported the Congress and we will win half the seats here. The BJP knows this fact and will try to manipulate the elections through EVMs. The BJP is ahead only in publicity,'' Mishra alleged. The Congress is on very strong ground as was evident in the assembly polls results, he pointed out. However, state BJP spokesperson Pankaj Chaturvedi told PTI that his party would win all the Lok Sabha seats in the region. ''The BJP has gone to the voters on the guarantees of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the developmental works done by him as well as welfare schemes for the poor. We don't contest on the basis of caste or religion like Congress,'' he claimed. Chaturvedi further claimed that the people are aware that the Congress wants to snatch the quota of OBCs and give it Muslims on the basis of religion like they did in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. The ravines along the river Chambal, which runs through Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan and gives the region its name, was infested with dacoits, though the last major gang, led by Rambabu Gadariya, ended some 15 years ago. Among the blockbuster films that had Chambal and its bandit lore as base include ''Sholay'', ''Mera Gaon Mera Desh'', ''Gunga Jumna'', ''Mujhe Jeene Do'' and ''Bandit Queen''. According to a BJP leader, the Gwalior Lok Sabha seat has 46 per cent OBCs and 20 per cent SCs, while STs form 5 per cent of the population. The rest are from the general category. The seat was represented by former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 1971. Jan Sangh stalwart and BJP founder member Rajmata Vijaya Raje Scindia won from Gwalior seat in 1962 on a Congress ticket, while her son Madhavrao Scindia was elected five times, four times from on a Congress ticket and once on the ticket of the Madhya Pradesh Vikas Congress, a party founded by him. The population profile in Morena Lok Sabha seat is 44 per cent OBCs, 20 per cent SCs, 6 per cent STs and the remainder in the general category. Madhya Pradesh assembly speaker Narendra Singh Tomar, a former Union minister, was elected from Morena in 2009 and 2014. He was chosen as MLA in the 2023 assembly polls. In Bhind, 43 per cent voters belong to the OBC segment, 23 per cent are SCs, 21 per cent are from the general category and 1 per cent are STs. Vijaya Raje Scindia was elected from Bhind LS seat in 1971. Her daughter Vasundhara Raje Scindia, former Rajasthan chief minister, incidentally, faced defeat from this seat in 1984 at the hands of Congress' Krishna Singh Judeo, who is part of the royal family of Datia.

Government sources: Election Commission's approval secured before lifting onion export ban

Government sources: Election Commission's approval secured before lifting onion export ban The Centre has taken permission from the Election Commission to lift the ban on exports of onion in view of the ongoing implementation of the Model Code of Conduct due to the Lok Sabha elections, sources said. According to government sources, the Department of Revenue under the finance ministry took the permission from the Election Commission to lift the ban on onion exports, subject to conditions of 40 per cent export duty, and also a minimum export price (MEP) of USD 550 per tonne. The government on Saturday lifted the ban on onion exports, a decision that can help boost income of a large section of farmers and comes ahead of the Lok Sabha polls in key producing regions including Maharashtra. The government has imposed a minimum export price (MEP) of USD 550 per tonne (around Rs 46 per kg) as well as 40 per cent export duty. Taking duty into account, the shipments will not be allowed below USD 770 per tonne (around Rs 64 per kg). The decision to lift the ban on exports of onion was on the recommendation of the Department of Consumer Affairs, which monitors the availability and price situation of onion in the country. On December 8 last year, the Centre had banned onion exports in early December to control retail prices amid concerns over likely fall in production. During the last 4-5 years, the country annually exported between 17 lakh and 25 lakh tonnes of onions. Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare on Saturday said the lifting of the ban would not lead to any price rise in retail markets. ''Prices will remain stable. If at all there is any increase, it should be very marginal,'' she said on Saturday, while asserting that the government is committed to protect the interests of both consumers and farmers. The directorate general of foreign trade (DGFT) in a notification on May 4, said that ''the export policy of onions is amended from prohibited to free subject to MEP of USD 550 per metric tonne with immediate effect and until further orders.'' On May 3, the finance ministry imposed a 40 per cent export duty. The decision assumes importance as it comes before the crucial Lok Sabha polls in key onion belts like Nashik, Ahmednagar and Solapur in Maharashtra. Farmers of this region have been demanding a lifting of the ban so that they can get a better price for their produce. Explaining the rationale behind the decision, Khare said the ''ban on onion exports has been removed from today (Saturday) because the supply situation is comfortable and prices are stable in both mandies as well as retail markets.'' The modal price at Lasalgaon mandi in Nashik was Rs 15 per kg in April. She said the decision has been taken after considering the latest estimates of onion production in rabi season at 191 lakh tonnes, which is comfortable. Availability and prices of onion in global markets were also factored in while taking this decision. The secretary said the monthly domestic demand of onion is around 17 lakh tonnes. ''Lifting of the ban would also encourage the farmers to put more area under onions. The monsoon forecast is above normal,'' Khare said. The secretary noted that the decision has been taken after wider discussions with stakeholders. A high-level team also visited key onion producing belts in Maharashtra to assess the ground situation. Khare also pointed out that the shelf life of onions is less and therefore a need was felt to export onions. The secretary said that the government is procuring 5 lakh tonnes of onions as buffer stock, so that it can intervene in the market in case of price rise. ''We are continuously monitoring the prices of all essential food items. We will continue to keep a watch on the availability and price situation,'' she said. A senior government official explained that there is an inter-ministerial committee (IMC) which reviews the prices, production, availability and exports of essential food items including onions. ''So do not think of this as an isolated instance of decision making by IMC,'' the official said, when asked whether the decision has been made in view of general elections. The official said the IMC has been taking a series of steps in various commodities including wheat and rice to boost domestic supply and keep prices under check. In March, the Union Agriculture Ministry released the data for onion production. As per the data, onion production in 2023-24 (First Advance Estimates) is expected to be around 254.73 lakh tonnes compared to around 302.08 lakh tonnes last year. This is due to a decrease of 34.31 lakh tonnes output in Maharashtra, 9.95 lakh tonnes in Karnataka, 3.54 lakh tonnes in Andhra Pradesh and 3.12 lakh tonnes in Rajasthan, the data showed. Last month, in an official statement, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution said the government has allowed export of 99,150 tonnes of onion to six neighbouring countries of Bangladesh, UAE, Bhutan, Bahrain, Mauritius and Sri Lanka. The Congress last month accused the Narendra Modi government of ''callously neglecting'' Maharashtra's onion farmers affected due to the ban on onion exports and said that its manifesto promises a predictable import-export policy to prevent such catastrophic last-minute policies being imposed on farmers.

Coffee planters in Araku Lok Sabha constituency voice discontent over pending dues

Coffee planters in Araku Lok Sabha constituency voice discontent over pending dues Growing discontent among coffee planters over unpaid dues from the government may emerge as a significant electoral issue in the Araku (ST) Lok Sabha constituency in Alluri Sitharama Raju district in Andhra Pradesh. The YSR Congress is aiming to score a hat trick in the segment while the NDA is slugging it out to wrest the seat from the ruling party. In 2019, YSRCP candidate G Madhavi won the seat with a margin of over two lakh votes. This time the ruling party has fielded Chetti Tanuja Rani, a doctor, while former MP Kothaplalli Geetha, a BJP contestant, was pitted against her by the NDA. Geetha won the seat in 2014 on YSRCP ticket and later floated her own outfit, which was merged with the BJP. The CPI (M), as part of the INDI alliance also fielded P Appala Narsa, who may potentially split the opposition votes. Perched at a height of 1000 m above sea level in the Eastern Ghats in Andhra Pradesh, Araku boasts of producing coffee beans with distinctive flavours which has gained recognition both domestically and internationally. The crop which was initially started as an experiment in early 2000, is now grown across 2.30 lakh acres in the valley, which produces more than 15,000 tons of the commodity annually. According to Gemmili China Babu, sarpanch of Sunkarametta village in Araku region and a planter himself, the plantation was earlier brought under MGNREGA and later the Centre stopped extending wages under it. Despite the state government sending proposals to the central government to reverse its earlier order, there has been no reponse. As many as 2.15 lakh farmers, besides sellers and others from 10 mandals under Araku Lok Sabha segment depend on the coffee plantations. China Babu said the plantations were raised in 2000 and picked up pace during former Chief Minister Rajasekhar Reddys regime. The successive governments also encouraged it as the tribals started giving up Podu cultivation which is an ecological disaster. The farmers are supposed to get a total of Rs 18,800 per acre for three years from 2019 as an incentive from the ITDA. Despite several assurances by officials, from 2019 till date, a due amount of over Rs 60 crore is to be paid. There are over 58,000 farmers who have to receive the amount, he told PTI. Though ITDA officials collected the account details of the farmers who are supposed to receive the amount, nothing has materialised so far. V Abhishek, Project Officer of Integrated Tribal Development Authority (ITDA) Paderu said it is not due, but the Centre has removed coffee plantation from the MGNREGA many years ago. Agricultural activities are covered under the MGNREGA. However, Coffee plantation comes under commercial crops and hence it was removed, the official said. Another official of ITDA said they already received Rs 5.5 crore towards pending dues. But, could not release it as the Model Code of Conduct is in place due to ongoing general elections. Appala Narsa said the issue of pending dues from the government is being highlighted in his poll campaign. The ITDA and the state government have been extending support to planters by way of providing free saplings and other equipment required for cultivation, some farmers said. The pending dues from the government is not a major issue. The real issue is providing marketing opportunities to the farmers who are forced to sell their commodity at lesser prices to middlemen and other businessmen, an official earlier associated with ITDA said. Ram Kumar Varma, Founder and CEO of Native Araku Coffee, which has outlets at eight airports in India, said their blend is famous in several places. We are buying about 100 tonnes of coffee beans from Araku farmers. We have our own grinding and blending facility in Visakhapatnam, he said, adding that their brand is also sold online.

Updated: Revised News Schedule

Updated: Revised News Schedule National news schedule for Sunday, May 5 NATIONAL **** Lok Sabha elections related stories and other political developments NCR *** Tamil Nadu BJP president Annamalai to address 'Delhi Tamil Samagam' at Talkatora Stadium BJP press conference Stories related to Lok Sabha elections *** NORTH **** PM to address poll rallies in Etawah, Sitapur and hold roadshow in Ayodhya Rajnath Singh to campaign in Lucknow Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann to hold roadshow in Kharar Campaigning ends for third-phase seats in UP **** SOUTH ****Election related developments Andhra Pradesh Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh to address poll rallies Telangana: Rahul Gandhi, Amit Shah to address election rallies EAST **** PM Modi to reach Odisha on a 2-day tour. BJP president JP Nadda to release party manifesto for twin polls External Affairs minister S Jaishankar to attend meetings in Cuttack and Sambalpur. Bengal: Mamata Banerjee to address rallies in Bardhaman Durgapur, Birbhum, Bolpur Abhishek Banerjee to address two rallies at Krishnanagar and Malda North Third phase campaign end stories from Bengal, Bihar and Assam Poll-related stories from states *** WEST ****BJP president J P Nadda to address poll rally at Surajpur in Surguja Lok Sabha constituency of Chhattisgarh Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai to address press conference in Raipur Chhattisgarh Congress president Deepak Baij's press conference Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate to address press conference in Ahmedabad Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav to campaign in Vidisha, Guna and Rajgarh Lok Sabha constituencies. Sharad Pawar to address last campaign rally in Baramati in support of his daughter Supriya Sule Congress leader Girish Chodankar to address press conference in Panaji ***

Expired stocks found during raid at famous bakery in Hyderabad

Hyderabad: The task force of the Food Safety Department in Telangana conducted raids on Saturday at a famous bakery and an ice cream parlor located at Moazzam Jahi Market area, Hyderabad. During the inspections, violations were found. Karachi Bakery* Expired stocks of Rusks, biscuits, candy, chocolate cakes, toasts and buns worth Rs 5,200 were discarded* 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 .

Amit Shah to address poll rallies in Telugu states today

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will take part in a rally at Jammalamadugu and Adoni in Andhra Pradesh.

Amit Shah to address poll rallies in Hyderabad, 3 other places in Telangana

Hyderabad: Union Home Minister Amit Shah will campaign in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana on Sunday in support of the BJP candidates for the upcoming elections. According to a release from the BJP Telangana unit, Shah would be addressing three separate rallies at Sirpur Kagaznagar, Nizamabad and Hyderabad. A release from AP BJP wing said the 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 .

Pro-BJP Media Journalist Hints Jagan's Victory - Greatandhra

Pro-BJP Media Journalist Hints Jagan's Victory Greatandhra

Silent period for Phase-3 poll sets in from May 5

BENGALURU: All sorts of loud political campaigning using loudspeakers, microphones, banners and mega rallies will end at 6 pm on Sunday (May 5). After which political parties and candidates can only carry out door-to-door campaigning. This is because 14 parliamentary constituencies -- Chikkodi, Belgaum, Bagalkot, Bijapur, Gulbarga, Raichur, Bidar, Koppal, Bellary, Haveri, Dharwad, Uttara Kannada, Davangere and Shimoga -- are going to the polls on May 7. The office of the Chief Electoral Officer, Karnataka (CEO) said that from 6 pm on Sunday, state borders in districts going to the polls will also be sealed. Additional CEO Venkatesh Kumar R told The New Sunday Express that from the silent period till the polls are over, the sale of liquor is not permitted. Liquor cannot be brought from other states also. As per Election Commission directions, liquor outlets in other states falling within 5km of the Karnataka border too should remain closed. Bidar, Kalaburagi, Raichur, Yadgir, Ballari, Uttara Kannada, Belagavi and Vijayapura share borders with Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Goa and Maharashtra. The CEOs office also requested state governments of neighbouring states to give all employees and labourers paid holiday on May 7 to allow them to vote. The state government has declared a general holiday that day for all government offices, educational institutions and public sector undertakings falling within these constituencies. Also, business enterprises, industries and other institutions have been directed to sanction a paid holiday to allow daily wagers and permanent staff working with them to vote. Kumar said that many people in North Karnataka work in Maharashtra, Hyderabad and other places. The district administrations were directed to call them and persuade them to come to their respective constituencies to vote. The election officials said that no opinion polls are permitted. Restrictions on opinion polls were imposed from Phase-1 elections. There is a ban from April 19 to 6.30 pm on June 1, Kumar said. The election officials have also directed all parties and candidates to ensure that no one except residents remain in the constituency.

Jagan says he backs Muslim quota, accuses Chandrababu of deceiving minorities

Jagan says he backs Muslim quota, accuses Chandrababu of deceiving minorities Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy said on Saturday that the four per cent reservation for Muslims must continue and dared TDP president N. Chandrababu Naidu to spell out his stand on the issue in front of Prime Minister Narendra [] The post Jagan says he backs Muslim quota, accuses Chandrababu of deceiving minorities appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

Titles for Konda, Tigers - The Times of India

Titles for Konda, Tigers The Times of India

Fight in Mahakal temple complex leaves Andhra man hurt - The Times of India

Fight in Mahakal temple complex leaves Andhra man hurt The Times of India

Anantapur selections - The Times of India

Anantapur selections The Times of India

AP ranks 2nd in candidates with criminal records: Data - The Times of India

AP ranks 2nd in candidates with criminal records: Data The Times of India

Union Home Minister Amit Shah to Address Election Rallies in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana

Amit Shah to campaign in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana for BJP candidates. He will attend rallies in Sirpur Kagaznagar, Nizamabad, Hyderabad, and Dharmavaram. TDP supremo Chandrababu Naidu and Janasena chief Pawan Kalyan will join him in Dharmavaram.

AP Government Will Provide Free Locations for Shooting Movies - Deccan Chronicle

AP Government Will Provide Free Locations for Shooting Movies Deccan Chronicle

AP Government Will Provide Free Locations for Shooting Movies

Vijayawada: Telugu film directors have sought development of the film industry in Andhra Pradesh, which owns beautiful locations and a long seacoast line. A Directors Day programme had been held in Tenali on Saturday in which movie directors and film personalities participated. MA-AP organised the Directors Day programme. Dilip Raja, the founder of MA-AP and film director, said there are many natural scenic and picturesque locations in Andhra Pradesh, which could be used for movie shootings. He pointed out that AP also has nearly a thousand kilometres of seacoast, which would be most useful for movie shootings. Andhra Pradesh Film Development Corporation manager Srinivasa Naik said the government will provide locations for movies to be shot in the state for free. On the occasion, Dr. Kothamasu Shyam Sundar, a renowned physician, presented Darsaka Ratna Dasari Narayana Rao awards to Ankuram, Maunam, Srikaram, film director and National Award winner C. Uma Maheswara Rao and director Bharat Parepalli, who has directed 40 films. Directors from AP including Daddy Srinivas, Om Sai, B. Somasundaram and Chalavadi Siva Prasad received honorary awards from MA-AP on the occasion of Director's Day.

Partisanship makes ECI an election omission

Empires and emperors come and go, but some institutions remain immortal. The Roman empire vanished in 476 CE, but Pax Romana became the basis of modern justice. King John died in 1216 CE, but the Magna Carta laid the foundation of democracy. The individuals in charge are mere mortals. As long as they have the keys, they can make or mar the image of credible institutions through inept and inappropriate methods. The Election Commission of Indias (ECI) conduct over the past few weeks exemplifies such a degradation. It is being charged with delaying decisions, minimising transparency of data and ignoring genuine complaints by various candidates, especially from the opposition. Last week, it had mud on its face for taking almost 11 days to post the final polling numbers of voters in the first phase. The data didnt follow the precedential pattern and just gave the percentage of votes cast instead of constituency-wise details. Suspiciously, the final numbers vastly differ from the figures released by the ECI after the day of polling. The past has seen such delays, but this time the formatting and method was dodgy. In this digital age, when data can travel a million times faster than political volte-faces, the ECIs slow pace was abhorrent to even the most conservative pollsters and intellectuals. After all, it will decide the ruling party after June 2024. Despite unlimited money, resources and technology at its disposal, the ECI, in its wisdom, extended the election to seven phases in spite of the expected heat wave. Once upon a time, the ECI earned worldwide admiration for conducting elections in which over 100 crore voters in 543 constituencies decided their representatives. Except during the 1970s, Indian elections have by and large been fair and peaceful. The ECI faced political ire but its verdict was finally accepted by all the candidates. But no more. The ECI is their principal target, more than their political adversaries. Its not performance, but the perception that the ECI is controlled and directed by the BJP that has become its nemesis. The commission is basking in the glory of a record seizure of unaccounted money and drugsalmost Rs 100 crore a day since January. Yet its administrative initiatives, including fixing the election schedule and taking punitive and preemptive actions against contestants who habitually flout the Model Code of Conduct, are dubious at best. All three election commissioners have impeccable track records. The current CEC, Rajiv Kumar, an 1984 batch IAS officer of the Jharkhand cadre, was previously the Union finance secretary. He is credited with turning around the banking sector and introducing impactful financial reforms. The other two, IAS officers Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Gyanesh Kumar, are closely associated with the Modi governments infrastructure push and Home Minister Amit Shah. Kumar was one of the key members of the home ministry team that worked on the secret exercise for the abolition of Article 370. However, the manner and suddenness of their appointments have led to myriad controversies. The Election Commission has become a sumptuous post-retirement habitat for random civil servants whose main credentials are loyalty to the establishment; their meritorious achievements are today the exception, not the rule. The ECI started life on a moral high ground when the reputed ICS officer Sukumar Sen was appointed to conduct the first Lok Sabha election and then the second one. Since then, 24 more chief election commissioners have occupied the exalted seat. Four from the ICS, 15 from the IAS, two from the IRS, one woman politician and two eminent constitutional legal eminences, Nagendra Singh and S L Shakdhar. The ECIs reputation was tarnished after politics superseded merit. For example, after V P Singhs government fell on November 7, 1990, V S Ramadevi, an advocate from Andhra Pradesh, was appointed the first female CEC on November 26, 1990. For inexplicable reasons, in two weeks she was replaced by the feisty T N Seshan. The shenanigans that followed after his stringent actions against electoral violations politicised the institution. Seshan imposed all legally available restrictions on candidates. High-voltage campaigns ground to a halt. For the first time, the government approached the Supreme Court seeking curbs on the CECs powers. The then-Prime Minister Narasimha Rao converted the ECI into a three-member commission and gave each one equal power. Leading a minority government, he couldnt alter the provision for the CECs dismissal, which says removal is only possible through a parliamentary resolution. Interestingly, while only the House can impeach the CEC, the authority to remove an election commissioner rests with the CECthe president may or may not accept the recommendation. This makes the other members vulnerable. They would fall in line. Converting the ECI into a multi-member body caused internal conflicts between the members. For example, in January 2009, CEC N Gopalaswami wrote to the president recommending the removal of his colleague Naveen Chawla. He accused Chawla of partisanship by overtly supporting the Congress. Gopalaswami was the home secretary during the previous NDA government and considered close to the Sangh parivar. The Manmohan Singh administration rejected the recommendation and Chawla became the CEC afterwards. Since then, successive governments have acquired the regressive reputation of packing the institution with individuals ideologically or personally aligned with the ruling party. Over the past 12 years, various governments have chosen retired or service-inactive babus. The current controversy stems from the fact that the two new members were about to retire or already hung their boots. They were chosen just a day before the elections were announced. The truth is, no political party wishes to abdicate control over the CECs selection. Even after the Supreme Court ruled that the government must establish a credible panel for selecting election commissioners, the NDA government defiantly dropped the Chief Justice of India from the panel and retained its majority clout. Such discretionary power enables the sarkar to handpick people who pass the twin test of pliability and compatibility. It is tragic that even prominent and eminent constitutional writers couldnt anticipate the misuse of the ECI by any ruling party. The Constitution has no provision for an independent selection mechanism for them, unlike in many other world democracies. For example, even the omnipotent president of the US cant appoint the mandated half a dozen federal election commissioners without the Senates advice and consent. Since it is impossible to change the Indian system, its the ECIs duty to protect its own credibility and acceptability. India has seen a vast increase in voter turnout. From 58.21 percent in 2009, it has risen to 67.40 percent under Modi. Going by the public perception that the prime minister is set for a record hat-trick, any doubtful and unjustifiable exercise by the ECI would not only raise doubts over the projected triumph but would also sound the death knell for yet another distinguished institution of Indian democracy. An election won with numbers must also be won with hearts. Caesars wife should be above suspicion. Or else, the next meme on the Election Commission could read Election Omission. prabhu chawla prabhuchawla@newindianexpress.com Follow him on X @PrabhuChawla

Candidates at loggerheads over parties stand on Visakhapatnam Steel Plant - The Hindu

Candidates at loggerheads over parties stand on Visakhapatnam Steel Plant The Hindu

Punters make elections a high-stakes play in Andhra Pradesh

Realtors, aqua traders, NRIs, political analysts and businessmen bet crores of rupees on key constituencies

Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh visiting AP today

VIJAYAWADA : Top BJP leaders are visiting parts of Andhra Pradesh on Sunday to campaign on behalf of their party nominees, who are contesting the May 13 Assembly and Lok Sabha elections in alliance with the Opposition Telugu Desam and Jana Sena. Union home minister Amit Shah will arrive in Dharmavaram and address a public meeting at the CNB Gardens on Bathalapalli Road at 10:30 am in support of BJP nominee Y. Satya Kumar, who is contesting from the Dharmavaram Assembly constituency. Telugu Desam chief N. Chandrababu Naidu will also address the public meeting. Union defence minister Rajnath Singh will address his first public meeting at Yerraguntla in Kadapa at 12:30 pm. He will address another public meeting at Adoni in Kurnool at 3 pm. He will be campaigning in support of BJP nominees from Jammalamadugu and Adoni Assembly constituencies C. Adinarayana Reddy and P.V. Parthasarathi respectively.

Naidu promises to scrap garbage tax, appoint Brahmins as TTD board members

KAKINADA : Former chief minister and Telugu Desam chief N. Chandrababu Naidu has promised to revoke tax on garbage and appoint a member of Brahmin community as member of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams Trust Board. He said that 15,000 per month will be given to priests where temples earn 50,000 income. Addressing Prajagalam meetings at Darsi in Prakasam district, Nuzvid in Eluru district and in Kakinada city on Saturday, Chandrababu Naidu showered several sops on people of different communities in Andhra Pradesh. He said a special fund will be created for the welfare of Kapus. He said 10 per cent of liquor shops will be reserved for the Settibalija community. The TD chief lashed out at Kakinada MLA Dwarampudi Chandrasekhara Reddy, describing him as a land grabber who has indulged in several scams. He accused the MLA of drafting an evil design to loot nearly 200 acres of land belonging to Bhoodan Yajna. Naidu said he wants to make Kakinada a Smart City. But the Kakinada MLA has made the city as Ganja City, as many of the youth are addicted to Ganja and other drugs. The former chief minister accused Jagan Mohan Reddy of giving 10 to people but taking away 1,000 from them. He said Nuzvid will be merged into Krishna district after the alliance comes to power. Naidu declared that he will start a golden era with the help of Jana Sena chief and film star Pawan Kalyan.

Pawan Kalyan predicts NDA will win 130 seats in AP assembly

VIJAYAWADA : Expressing confidence over the victory of TD-JS-BJP alliance in the upcoming polls in Andhra Pradesh, Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan declared that they are concerned about how much majority they are likely to get, like 130 Assembly seats or so out of total 175 seats. Addressing public meetings in Gudivada and Repalle on Saturday, the JS chief said, As we have been touring several parts of AP as part of poll campaign, we have come to an understanding based on the feedback and response from the people that NDA is going to win the polls. We are anxious as to how much majority the alliance will get. He lashed out at the Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy-led YSR Congress government, alleging that it had reneged several promises made at the time of elections held in 2019. He asked why prohibition of liquor has not been implemented in a phased manner, and why there is no abolition of contributory pension scheme. Pawan Kalyan branded the YSRC government as one which attacks its opponents and abuses them. He said though Jagan Reddy government has renamed erstwhile Krishna district as NTR to show respect for the great personality of N.T. Rama Rao, he questioned the need for renaming NTR University of Health Sciences as Dr. YSR University of Health Sciences. Pawan Kalyan said, My priority is to protect democracy. Liberty of the people should be safeguarded. We are not here just for your votes but to protect AP, develop it and provide welfare to its people. Announcing a series of schemes incorporated in the common manifesto, the Jana Sena chief criticised the state government for not desilting canals and taking up other developmental works in the state. Earlier, cricketer Ambati Rayudu, taking part in the public meeting at Repalle said, I have seen massive craze of people for former Indian captain M.S. Dhoni and Pawan Kalyan. I appeal to all of you to transfer your craze into votes and support Pawan Kalyan, as he is the real hero who has set up a political party to work for the good of people.

TDP Chief Chandrababu Naidu Predicts End of YSRCP Administration In 10 Days

TDP Chief Chandrababu Naidu Predicts End of YSRCP Administration In 10 Days The ''anarchy'' of the YSRCP's five-year government will end in 10 days, TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu said on Saturday. Addressing a public meeting in NTR district's Nuziveedu as part of his Prajagalam election campaign tour, Naidu also labelled Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy a ''gang leader of robbers and landgrabbers''. ''The anarchy that the state is now facing will end in another 10 days We are coming as an alliance to save the people from these conspirators,'' the leader of opposition in the Andhra Pradesh Assembly said. Elections for the 175-member assembly and the 25 Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh will be held simultaneously on May 13. The votes will be counted on June 4. Labelling Reddy a ''gang leader of robbers and landgrabbers'', the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief called on people to dump the fan -- the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) election symbol -- in the dustbin. Naidu alleged Reddy is formulating deceptive strategies to grab people's lands through the Land Titling Act and claimed that Critical River Technology -- a US company -- is maintaining the state's land records. The TDP is contesting the elections as part of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) with the BJP and the Janasena. Naidu asserted that when the alliance forms the government in the state, he will take all necessary measures to complete the Chintalapudi lift irrigation project and also globally publicise the Nuziveedu mangoes. Observing that his vision was destroyed on the pretext of setting up ''three capitals'', the former chief minister also expressed a desire to make Amaravati the best capital in the country. Had Amaravati been completed, youngsters would have got jobs and the outer ring road would have touched Nuziveedu, Naidu said. He promised to revive the Amaravati project immediately after coming to power. Promising to put his first signature on a mega teacher recruitment drive after regaining power, Naidu also assured to provide 20 lakh jobs in five years.

Andhra Pradesh Distributes Over 99 Percent of Social Security Pensions - Deccan Chronicle

Andhra Pradesh Distributes Over 99 Percent of Social Security Pensions Deccan Chronicle

Andhra Pradesh Distributes Over 99 Percent of Social Security Pensions

Vijayawada: Shashi Bhushan Kumar, principal secretary for panchayat raj and rural development, announced that Andhra Pradesh has distributed nearly all social security pensions for the month. As of Saturday, 99.25% of the state's 65,49,864 pensioners have received their pensions.The government released a total of Rs 1,945.39 crore for disbursement, which began on May 1st. An impressive 99.99% (48,17,718 out of 48,18,104) of pensions were distributed electronically. For those who faced issues with DBT (74,399 pensions), the government shifted to door-to-door delivery. This category saw an increase from 16,57,361 to 17,31,760 pensions, with 97.18% (16,82,989) already disbursed.These figures highlight the state's commitment to ensuring timely delivery of social security benefits to its citizens.

Can Naidu dare to exit NDA over Muslim reservation: CM Jagan

Nellore: YSRCP supremo and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy on Saturday dared N Chandrababu Naidu to walk out of the NDA alliance as the BJP allegedly wants to cancel four percent reservation for Muslims in the state. The Chief Minister issued this challenge at Nellore in the eponymous district during a 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 .

Government Staff Should Use Postal Ballots in Their Respective Facilitation

Government employees proudly display their inked thumbs after casting their postal ballots at IGMC Stadium in Vijayawada on Saturday. Government employees proudly display their inked thumbs after casting their postal ballots at IGMC Stadium in Vijayawada on Saturday. Vijayawada: Krishna district election officer and district collector, D.K. Balaji, announced that government staff should use postal ballots in their respective facilitation centres being set up across constituencies. The facilitation centres will be open on the 5th and 6th of this month for different groups. Balaji explained that, on the 5th, it's for OPOs, and on the 6th, it's for police, essential service workers, drivers, videographers, and others. Employees must vote in the district they work in. Those in Krishna district with votes elsewhere can use a facilitation center at Panduranga High School in Machilipatnam on the 6th. Centres will also be available on the 7th and 8th at returning officers' offices. Postal ballots should be used in the same constituency where one has the right to vote. Balaji stated that facilitation centres for postal voting will be at various locations like ZP High School Boys in Gannavaram, VKR VNB Engineering College in Gudivada, and others. For those in other districts of Andhra Pradesh, a centre is set up at Panduranga Municipal Corporation High School in Chilakalapudi, Machilipatnam.

TG Bharat campaigns at Kurnool market yard where problems are aplenty - The Times of India

TG Bharat campaigns at Kurnool market yard where problems are aplenty The Times of India

Surge Swell: Coastal States on Orange Alert

In an absolute contrast to the soaring mercury levels, a yellow alert is on the cards for the state for the next two days as minimum temperatures are likely to be in the range of 11 to 15 C for most of the districts, and a further drop with orange alert at districts like Adilabad, Kumaram Bheem, Mancherial in the coming week. (Representational Image) In an absolute contrast to the soaring mercury levels, a yellow alert is on the cards for the state for the next two days as minimum temperatures are likely to be in the range of 11 to 15 C for most of the districts, and a further drop with orange alert at districts like Adilabad, Kumaram Bheem, Mancherial in the coming week. (Representational Image) Hyderabad: The swell surge that began in the Atlantic Ocean has begun interacting with the Indian coast and the swell is expected to move northward for another 24 hours or so, the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (Incois) said on Saturday. Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, West Bengal on the eastern coast, and Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra and Gujarat on the west coast - were placed on an orange alert till the end of May 5 in view of the swell surge. Fishermen and coastal population were asked to be on the alert from Saturday evening to around Sunday midnight and be watchful for possible intermittent surging of waves in the nearshore/beach region, particularly in the low-lying areas and during high tide and spring tide phases. Incois said small boats and vessels may ply nearshore but with due caution. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, as well as the Lakshadweep archipelago in southern Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea, have already experienced the surge swell.

Anakapalli LS Emerges as Political Hotspot Ahead of 2024 Elections

VISHAKHAPATNAM: The Anakapalli Lok Sabha constituency in Andhra Pradesh has transformed into a cauldron of political fervor as the 2024 elections process is currently under way. With prominent leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister for Road Transport Nitin Gadkari actively campaigning for their respective candidates, the political landscape is seeing hectic activity. Nitin Gadkari has already rallied supporters in Anakapalli, setting the stage for further political showdowns. Notable figures like Pawan Kalyan, Chandrababu Naidu and YS Jagan Mohan Reddy have also thrown their weight behind their candidates, adding to the intensity of the electoral battle. The allure of the elections has attracted celebrities like Jabardasth actors and heroine Khushbu, who are lending their support to CM Ramesh, amplifying the excitement surrounding the constituency. This parliamentary constituency, comprising seven assembly segments, has had a significant voter turnout and has historically been a battleground between the Congress, TD and YSRC. In the 2019 elections, Beesetti Venkata Satyavathi from the YSRC won the parliamentary seat with a winning margin of 7.2 per cent over Adari Anand Kumar from the TD. The YSRC secured 47.33 per cent of the vote share, while the TD garnered 40.13 per cent. For the present 2024 elections, the alliance has fielded BJPs Chintakunta Munuswamy Ramesh, who has been a prominent figure in the state's political landscape. Ramesh, who won his second consecutive Rajya Sabha term in 2018, filed his nomination amid much fanfare and in the presence of Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The ruling YSRC has chosen Budi Mutyala Naidu as its candidate. Naidu is the current MLA of Madugula constituency, he having won the 2019 elections for the YSRC with 78,830 votes against the TD leader Gavireddy Ramanaidu. He had begun his political journey with the Congress Party, but later aligned with the YSRC and is serving as MLA in Madugula, Visakhapatnam from 2014. Additionally, for the first time, local and non-local concerns have surfaced in the constituency. According to sources, there's speculation that leveraging this non-local issue could potentially bolster Budi's chances. The constituency has historically been a battleground between the Congress, TD and YSRC, with the Congress winning it nine times, the TDP five times and the YSRC once -- since 1962.

Can Chandrababu Naidu dare to exit NDA over Muslim reservation: Andhra CM Jagan - The Indian Express

Can Chandrababu Naidu dare to exit NDA over Muslim reservation: Andhra CM Jagan The Indian Express

Challenging the YS family bastion in Pulivendula

Andhra Pradesh CM Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy is counting on four decades of family support from constituents, but must grapple with the challenge of his sister, now in the Congress, and a TDP candidate who has been preparing for the last year

Challenging the YS family bastion in Pulivendula - The Hindu

Challenging the YS family bastion in Pulivendula The Hindu

Hyderabad: Railway police arrest man with 7 kg silver ornaments

Hyderabad: The Government Railway Police Secunderabad apprehended a man who was carrying 7 kg silver ornaments from Secunderabad to Miryalaguda. Pogula Vasanth, 63, a resident of Machilipatnam, Krishna district Andhra Pradesh was carrying silver ornaments to Miryalaguda from Hyderabad by Janmabhoomi Express train, but he didnt show any valid documents. The ornaments were handed over 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 .

Worried About My Brother's Mental State: YS Sharmila Jabs Jagan Reddy

Andhra Pradesh Congress chief YS Sharmila Reddy today said she is worried about the mental state of her brother and Andhra Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy.

YS Sharmila worried over mental state of brother Jagan

YS Sharmila worried over mental state of brother Jagan Kadapa (Andhra Pradesh): Andhra Pradesh unit Congress chief Y.S. Sharmila Reddy said on Saturday that she is worried about the mental state of her brother and Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy. Slamming Jagan Mohan Reddy for the allegation that she joined the Congress party [] The post YS Sharmila worried over mental state of brother Jagan appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

Y S Sharmila hits out at brother JaganM Mohan, says 'nobody can control' her - Deccan Herald

Y S Sharmila hits out at brother JaganM Mohan, says 'nobody can control' her Deccan Herald

Nijarupa darshan seems to be a sour grape for general public - The Times of India

Nijarupa darshan seems to be a sour grape for general public The Times of India

Worried About My Brother's Mental State: YS Sharmila Jabs Jagan Reddy - NDTV

Worried About My Brother's Mental State: YS Sharmila Jabs Jagan Reddy NDTV

CEO directs CID to probe false propaganda on Land Titling Act - The Hindu

CEO directs CID to probe false propaganda on Land Titling Act The Hindu

Poll Activities Across Andhra Pradesh - Deccan Chronicle

Poll Activities Across Andhra Pradesh Deccan Chronicle

Poll Activities Across Andhra Pradesh

Electoral officials arrange awareness flexes for voters at the entrance of the collectorate in Vijayawada on Saturday. Electoral officials arrange awareness flexes for voters at the entrance of the collectorate in Vijayawada on Saturday.

AP ECET 2024: JNTU releases admit cards at cets.apsche.ap.gov.in for May 8 exam - Mint

AP ECET 2024: JNTU releases admit cards at cets.apsche.ap.gov.in for May 8 exam Mint

Sharmila hits out at brother Jagan, says nobody can control her

Kadapa: Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee president Y S Sharmila on Saturday, May 4, lashed out at her estranged older brother and YSRCP chief Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy for allegedly calling her N Chandrababu Naidus confidant, asserting that nobody can control her. Sharmila sought to counter alleged statements by the YSRCP supremo and Chief Minister Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

German delegates visit SPMVV, discuss collaboration opportunities - The Hindu

German delegates visit SPMVV, discuss collaboration opportunities The Hindu

Alliance parties will scrap AP Land Titling Act if voted to power, says Naidu - The Hindu

Alliance parties will scrap AP Land Titling Act if voted to power, says Naidu The Hindu

Will Protect Muslim Reservation, Oppose UCC, YSRCP's Vijayasai Reddy Tells News18

Andhra Pradesh will have simultaneous Lok Sabha and assembly elections on May 13. A total of 25 seats in the Lok Sabha and 175 in the assembly will be up for grabs. Reddy is the YSRCP candidate for the Nellore parliamentary seat

Jagan accuses Naidu of making unheard of and unbelievable promises - The Hindu

Jagan accuses Naidu of making unheard of and unbelievable promises The Hindu

Y. S. Sharmila questions Jagans failure to implement total prohibition in Andhra Pradesh

Excise revenue increased from 20,000 crore to 30,000 crore in the State

Y. S. Sharmila questions Jagans failure to implement total prohibition in Andhra Pradesh - The Hindu

Y. S. Sharmila questions Jagans failure to implement total prohibition in Andhra Pradesh The Hindu

Yogi Adityanath Accuses Congress of Planning to Implement Jizya Tax

Lucknow: Ut tar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath criticized the Congress party, accusing them of intending to implement the Jizya tax, originally imposed by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb on non-Muslim minorities. Adityanath made these remarks while addressing a public meeting in Madhya Pradesh's Ashoknagar district on Saturday, where he was campaigning for Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Jyotiraditya Scindia for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Adityanath referred to the Congress manifesto, highlighting its proposal for an inheritance tax, which he likened to Aurangzeb's Jizya tax. He stated, Even a civilized Muslim family does not name their son Aurangzeb. Aurangzeb was the most cruel Mughal king. Aurangzeb had imposed a tax named Jizya tax. Today, Congress also talks about the Jizya tax in its manifesto. He criticized the Congress further, claiming that while Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized respecting inherited property, the Congress proposed an inheritance tax in its manifesto. Adityanath asserted that Congress intended to implement the Jizya tax and questioned whether Indians would accept it. Moreover, Adityanath alleged that the Congress aimed to reduce reservations for Other Backward Classes (OBC) and Scheduled Castes (SC), citing the party's manifesto. He accused Congress of reducing OBC reservations in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh during their respective governments. Responding to Adityanath's remarks, Congress leader Pawan Khera challenged the accuracy of his claims and asked Adityanath to cite the page number in the manifesto where the Jizya tax proposal was mentioned. Khera emphasized that Yogis, like Adityanath, should speak the truth. The Lok Sabha polls in Madhya Pradesh are being conducted in four phases. The first two phases were held on April 19 and April 26, while the remaining two phases are scheduled for May 7 and May 13. Vote counting is set for June 4. Malaysia Teams Up with MWL to Host Big Religious Conference in Asia Maruti Swift vs. Tata Tiago EV: Features and Price Comparison BJP's Post-Election Strategy: Focus Shifts to West Bengal

BRS, BJP colluding to undermine Congress, alleges Telangana CM Revanth Reddy

BRS, BJP colluding to undermine Congress, alleges Telangana CM Revanth Reddy Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Saturday alleged that BJP and BRS, with an ''internal understanding'', were conspiring to defeat Congress in the Lok Sabha polls. He was addressing an election rally at Kothagudem in Khammam Lok Sabha constituency. Revanth Reddy, who is also president of Congress in Telangana, referred to BRS president K Chandrasekhar Rao's comments that a coalition government would be formed at the Centre and that BRS nominee from Khammam Nama Nageswara Rao would become a Union Minister. Observing that Congress activists would not allow any truck between Congress and BRS, he said BJP is the only option left for BRS to join hands in government formation at the Centre. ''You (Chandrasekhar Rao) are going to join hands with BJP. That is we have been saying and you have been doing,'' he said. BRS had supported the BJP-led government at the Centre on demonetisation, GST, triple talaq, CAA, uniform civil code and others, he claimed. ''Even today, a conspiracy is on in Telangana. With an internal understanding, BJP and BJP are making conspiracies to see that Congress does not win,'' he said. He said the Legislative Assembly elections held in December were a ''semifinal'', while the Lok Sabha polls are the ''final.'' ''In the finals, (the contest is between) Telangana team vs Gujarat team. While Narendra Modi is leading that team, Rahul Gandhi ji is going to lead the Telangana team,'' he said. He alleged that the BJP-led government at the Centre did not implement the assurances made to Telangana in the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act like setting up a steel plant, rail coach factory and tribal university. All that the BJP-led government gave to Telangana is a ''donkey's egg'', he claimed, also displaying the picture of a ''donkey's egg.'' The ''donkey's egg'' (denoting zero or insignificant as per a Telugu saying) has been a routine feature in Revanth Reddy's rallies during the ongoing campaign for Lok Sabha polls. Reiterating his allegation that BJP would change the Constitution and abolish reservations, he claimed that BJP General Secretary Dushyant Kumar Gautam talked about making changes in the Constitution and its Preamble. State BJP president G Kishan Reddy and other party leaders have already dismissed Revanth Reddy's claims that BJP would change the Constitution. Taking exception to BRS president Chandrasekhar Rao's alleged comments that the farmers' investment scheme has stopped after BRS stepped down from office, Revanth Reddy asserted that he would apologise if any dues of the scheme are pending for any farmer by May 9.

Cenre Lifts Ban on Onion Exports; Imposes Minimum Export Price of USD 550 Per Tonne

In just two weeks, onion price per quintal rose to Rs 1,800 to Rs 2,000 from Rs 900 to Rs 1,000 level, while retail price shot up to Rs 25 per kg from Rs 10 to Rs 15. In just two weeks, onion price per quintal rose to Rs 1,800 to Rs 2,000 from Rs 900 to Rs 1,000 level, while retail price shot up to Rs 25 per kg from Rs 10 to Rs 15. New Delhi: The government on Saturday lifted the ban on onion exports but imposed a minimum export price (MEP) of USD 550 per tonne, amid ongoing Lok Sabha elections in the country. Last night, the government imposed a 40 per cent duty on export of onions. In August last year, India had imposed a 40 per cent export duty on onions up to December 31, 2023. The export policy of onions is amended from prohibited to free subject to MEP of USD 550 per metric ton with immediate effect and until further orders, the directorate general of foreign trade (DGFT) said in a notification. On December 8, 2023, the government banned export of onions from March 31 this year. In March, the export prohibition was extended till further orders. In March, the Union Agriculture Ministry released the data for onion production. As per the data, onion production in 2023-24 (First Advance Estimates) is expected to be around 254.73 lakh tonnes compared to around 302.08 lakh tonnes last year. This is due to a decrease of 34.31 lakh tonnes output in Maharashtra, 9.95 lakh tonnes in Karnataka, 3.54 lakh tonnes in Andhra Pradesh and 3.12 lakh tonnes in Rajasthan, the data showed. Last month, in an official statement, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution said the government has allowed export of 99,150 tonnes of onion to six neighbouring countries of Bangladesh, UAE, Bhutan, Bahrain, Mauritius and Sri Lanka. Farmers in Maharashtra had protested against the export ban. The Congress last month accused the Narendra Modi government of callously neglecting Maharashtra's onion farmers reeling due to the ban on onion exports and said that its manifesto promises a predictable import-export policy to prevent such catastrophic last-minute policies being imposed on farmers.

Chandrababu predicts big lose for YSRCP in Andhra Pradesh

Chandrababu predicts big lose for YSRCP in Andhra Pradesh:- TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu termed

Andhra Bank Telangana IFSC Code and MICR Code

List of Andhra Bank IFSC codes ... Urban Coop Bank Ambarnath Jai Hind Coop Bank Limited Andhra Bank Andhra Pradesh Grameena Vikas Bank Andhra Pragathi Grameena Bank Anz Bank Ap Mahesh Coop ...

'Politics Isn't 5-Minute Noodles, Can't Expect Quick Results': Pawan Kalyan On Andhra Pradesh Polls

Politics is not a five-minute noodles and one can not expect quick results as leaders have to earn the trust of people by withstanding turbulence and setbacks, Janasena founder and actor Pawan Kalyan ...

Rohith Vemula's Mother Seeks Justice from Telangana CM Revanth Reddy

Rohith Vemula's Mother Seeks Justice from Telangana CM Revanth Reddy Rohith Vemula's mother Radhika Vemula met Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy here on Saturday and urged him to see that ''justice'' is done to the family. Reddy assured her that an investigation would be conducted again into the University of Hyderabad student's suicide in 2016 and that justice would be done, an official release said. The chief minister assured that a fair and transparent investigation would be conducted further, Rohith Vemula's brother Raja Vemula told PTI Videos. He expressed confidence that justice would be done to them under the present Congress government. ''We have opposed the closure report submitted by the police. We also raised concerns regarding the issues they have mentioned in the report,'' he said, adding that the competent authority to clarify on the caste status is the district Collector of Guntur in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh and not the police,'' he said. Raja Vemula also said they sought cases filed against some other students to be cancelled. Police have filed a closure report before a local court in its probe into the death of Rohith Vemula, a student of the University of Hyderabad, claiming he was not a Dalit and died by suicide in 2016 as he feared that his ''real caste'' would be discovered. Telangana DGP Ravi Gupta has already announced to conduct further investigation into the case in view of the doubts expressed by Rohith Vemula's mother and others on the closure report. A petition will be filed in the court concerned requesting the Magistrate to permit further investigation into the case, he said in a statement on Friday night. The police gave a clean chit to the accused, including incumbent Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya, former BJP MLC N Ramchander Rao, and cited lack of evidence in the case.

Five officials held in GST refund fraud case

The Telangana police will be further strengthened to tackle increasing drugs and narcotics related crimes in the state with a two-pronged strategy. (Twitter) The Telangana police will be further strengthened to tackle increasing drugs and narcotics related crimes in the state with a two-pronged strategy. (Twitter) Hyderabad: The sleuths of Central Crime Station (CCS) arrested five GST officials including a woman in connection with a case registered related to GST refund fraud. The five arrested officials have been identified as Peetala Swarna Kumar, a Deputy Commissioner, GST in Nalgonda division, Kelam Venu Gopal, an Assistant Commissioner (State Taxes) in Abids Circle, Podila Viswa Kiran, an Assistant Commissioner (State Taxes) in Madhapur-1 Circle, Vemavarapu Venkata Ramana, a Deputy State Tax Officer, GST in Madhapur-II Circle and Marri Mahitha, a Senior Assistant in Madhapur-III Circle. Explaining the modus operandi, police said the accused started bogus electric bike manufacturing units with various firms names by collecting electricity bills from the premises owners in Hyderabad. They later registered the firms in the GST portal by submitting fabricated rental agreements. Further, the accused conspired with their tax consultant Chiraag Sharma and created fabricated invoices, e-way bills, part-A, part-B and inward supply bills on the name of bogus firms, showing non-existent company as existing and filed GST refunds by offering bribes to the State Government GST officials and claimed refunds. During the process, the accused claimed refund and gained wrongfully and caused the wrongful loss to the government exchequer, without manufacturing of e-Bikes. Being government servants, the above-mentioned GST officials criminally conspired with other accused, accepted bribes, misappropriated the public funds by using their official power deliberately, disobeying rules and procedures laid down in their department. The police earlier arrested Chiraag Sharma, a tax consultant of New Delhi, Vemireddy Raja Ramesh Reddy and Mummagari Giridhar Reddy alias Giri, both natives of of Kadapa in Andhra Pradesh and Kondragunta Vineel Chowdary of Palnadu district in Andhra Pradesh. With the arrest of five GST officials, the total number of persons caught in the case has gone up to nine.

Srikakulam: Collector Denies Reports of Employees Casting Vote Openly

Visakhapatnam: The concept of secret ballot seems to have been given a go bye in Narasannapeta assembly constituency in Srikakulam district on Saturday where government employees used postal ballots. As per reports, groups of employees entered the compartment and cast their ballots openly consulting each other. Video clips of the open ballot went viral in north coastal Andhra Pradesh. Polling had to begin at 7 pm but due to delay in arrival of poll officials, the polling station was opened at 9.30 am. After the opening of the station, there was a rush of employees which led to confusion among the officials and voters. There were also reports of YSRC activists hovering around the polling station and there were no police. Denying the reports of open casting of votes, Srikakulam collector Dr Manazir Jeelani Samoon said the returning officer confirmed him that the ballots were used in secrecy. There was a galata and confusion in the early hours but everything went off smoothly, the collector said.

Adityanath criticizes Congress manifesto, alleges similarities to Aurangzeb's rule

Adityanath criticizes Congress manifesto, alleges similarities to Aurangzeb's rule Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday said the Congress manifesto talked of 'jizya' (tax imposed on non-Muslims in medieval India) and promotion of cow slaughter and likened it to the ''cruel rule of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb''. He also accused the Congress of wanting to snatch the quota benefits of SC, STs and Other Backward Classes to please ''its vote bank''. Addressing a rally in Ashok Nagar town of Guna Lok Sabha constituency in support of BJP candidate and Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, the UP CM hailed the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for providing respect to faith, bringing welfare schemes for the poor and honour to the country. ''You have heard the name of a cruel Mughal ruler called Aurangzeb. Decent Muslim families don't name their children after him. He levied jizya. What is it? It is inheritance tax being talked about by the Congress,'' Adityanath claimed. On the other hand, PM Modi says heritage should be respected as our movement for Ram temple in Ayodhya continued for 500 years and lakhs of Hindus were martyred, Adityanath told the gathering. ''Forget about respect to heritage, the Congress is talking about levying tax on the wealth of your ancestors. Rahul Gandhi says he will X-ray your property and take half of it after his party comes to power and it will be called virasat tax (inheritance tax). Will you ever give jizya? No Indian can accept this,'' he said. Attacking the Congress manifesto further, he said that party will try to curtail quota benefits of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and OBCs and give it to its vote banks as it had done in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. Adityanath claimed the Congress wants to give minorities all freedom to eat and drink as per their choice and then went on to link it to cow slaughter and beef consumption. ''Are the food habits of minorities different from that of the majority (community? The general food habits are the same but the majority of society does not eat beef and opposes cow slaughter. Now Congress has stooped so low that it will support cow slaughter,'' UP chief minister alleged. ''This is not the Congress that contributed to the Independence struggle. Will you become a partner in this sin? Will there be cow slaughter in the land of Ram and Krishna?'' he asked the crowd. Hailing Modi, the UP CM cited the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and the welfare schemes being run by the Centre. ''Terrorism and Naxalism were at their peak before 2014. But now Pakistan comes forward with a clarification even if a firecracker bursts in India. This is new India. We are not aggressors but we don't spare those who make a move against us,'' Adityanath said. Adityanath hailed the Scindias for their fight against the Afghans several centuries ago and recalled the contribution of Rajmata Vijaya Raje Scindia, grandmother of the Union minister, in the Ram Temple movement and nation building. Addressing the gathering, Union minister Scindia listed the development works carried out in Guna. He said he had heard about corruption and the presence of the land mafia in Ashok Nagar and warned them of action after the elections. Guna will go to polls on May 7.

Heatwave plays spoilsport in Telugu states as campaign enters final leg - ap7am

Heatwave plays spoilsport in Telugu states as campaign enters final leg ap7am

Rahul Gandhi is wanted to become Prime Minister by Pakistani leaders: PM Modi in Palamu

In a fervent address at an election rally in Palamu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized past Congress administrations, branding them as feeble in addressing terrorism issues with Pakistan. Modi asserted that previous governments resorted to sending love letters to Pakistan in pursuit of peace, only to receive a surge of terrorists in return. Modi emphasized a decisive shift in India's stance towards Pakistan following the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, attributing it to the power of individual votes. He highlighted Pakistani leaders' aspirations for Rahul Gandhi to assume the role of Prime Minister after the recent parliamentary elections. Gone are the days, Modi proclaimed, when terrorists roamed freely and governments penned conciliatory missives to Pakistan. Instead, he emphasized a resolute New India ethos, symbolized by the refrain, Ghar mein ghus ke maarta hai (We enter their homes and strike). Modi commended the valor of those from Jharkhand and Bihar who safeguard the nation's borders, contrasting it with what he described as the timidity of previous Congress administrations. Highlighting the impact of surgical and Balakot strikes, Modi asserted that they had rattled Pakistan, prompting cries for help. He derided Pakistan's plea for assistance, stating that the country is now beseeching aid while harboring hopes for a Congress-led government under Rahul Gandhi. Modi underscored the need for a robust government to lead India, dismissing Pakistan's desires for a leadership change in India. The Prime Minister reiterated that Naxalism, terrorism, and Article 370 have been uprooted from the nation since 2014. In Jammu and Kashmir, the wall of Article 370 was brought down by the power of your vote. Naxalism and terrorism once plagued states like Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Bihar, and Andhra Pradesh, spreading fear and bloodshed. But your vote has brought hope to countless mothers and freed these lands from the grip of Naxalite terrorism, he declared. Former Pakistani Minister Fawad Chaudhry praised Rahul Gandhi, highlighting his socialist ideology reminiscent of his great grandfather, Jawaharlal Nehru. Rahul Gandhi, like his ancestor, carries the torch of socialism. The problems faced by India and Pakistan remain starkly similar even after 75 years of partition. Rahul ji rightly pointed out that a small fraction of families own a majority of wealth in both India and Pakistan. This inequality underscores the challenges of capitalism, Chaudhry expressed on social media. In Jharkhand, elections will be held across four phases: May 13, 20, 25, and June 1. In the 2019 elections, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) secured victory in 12 seats, with BJP alone clinching 11. The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and Congress each won one seat. The ongoing general elections span seven phases over six weeks, from April 19 to June 1. The first and second phases already took place on April 19 Arrival of Delegates from 23 Countries to Observe Lok Sabha Elections in India Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Big Names Face Critical Tests BJP's Post-Election Strategy: Focus Shifts to West Bengal

AP EAMCET 2024 application correction window opens at cets.apsche.ap.gov.in, direct link to edit - The Times of India

AP EAMCET 2024 application correction window opens at cets.apsche.ap.gov.in, direct link to edit The Times of India

Sale of tickets for Chandanotsavam 2024 begins - Yo Vizag

Sale of tickets for Chandanotsavam 2024 begins Yo Vizag

Heat waves forecast for 227 mandals in Andhra Pradesh on Saturday - The Hindu

Heat waves forecast for 227 mandals in Andhra Pradesh on Saturday The Hindu

DCA seizes overpriced antifungal medicine in Bhadrachalam - NewsTap

DCA seizes overpriced antifungal medicine in Bhadrachalam NewsTap

Heatwave plays spoilsport in Telugu states as campaign enters final leg

Hyderabad/Vijayawada, May 4: With just a week left for campaigning to end, the searing heat wave gripping both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh is impacting the canvassing by the political parties. Leaders of the main parties and the candidates are having a tough time running the campaign with maximum temperature at few places in Andhra Pradesh [] The post Heatwave plays spoilsport in Telugu states as campaign enters final leg appeared first on The Shillong Times .

National Survey: TDP In AP, Surprise In Telangana - M9

National Survey: TDP In AP, Surprise In Telangana M9

Rohith Vemula suicide case: Family to challenge Telangana Police's closure report

Hyderabad: The family of University of Hyderabad student Rohith Vemula on Friday said it will legally contest the Telangana Police's closure report in his 2016 suicide case.His brother Raja Vemula claimed the district collector has to decide on the family's SC status, prompting the police to say that they will conduct a further investigation. In its closure report on Rohith Vemula's death, the Telangana Police claimed he was not a Dalit and died by suicide in 2016 as he feared that his eal caste would be discovered. Citing the doubts expressed by Rohith Vemula's family, Telangana Director General of Police Ravi Gupta said in a statement late on Friday that a petition will be filed in the court concerned, requesting the magistrate to permit further investigations. Raja Vemula told news channels that Telangana High Court gave an option to file a 'protest petition' in the lower court. Whether Rohith Vemula belonged to the Scheduled Caste (SC) community or not should come from the district collector of Guntur in Andhra Pradesh, he said and asked how the police can say he was not an SC. Raja Vemula also said that they plan to meet Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on the matter. Meanwhile, police chief Gupta said the investigation officer in the case was the Assistant Commissioner of Police, Madhapur, and that the final closure report was prepared before November, based on the investigation conducted. The final closure report was officially filed in the jurisdictional court on March 21 by the investigation officer, he said in the statement. In its closure report, the police also gave a clean chit to the accused, citing a lack of evidence. The university's then vice-chancellor Appa Rao Podile, former BJP MP Bandaru Dattatreya, BJP ex-MLC N Ramachander Rao, and some ABVP leaders were among the accused.

Heatwave plays spoilsport in Telangana, AP as campaign enters final leg

Hyderabad: With just a week left for campaigning to end, the searing heat wave gripping both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh is impacting the canvassing by the political parties. Leaders of the main parties and the candidates are having a tough time running the campaign with the maximum temperature at a few places in Andhra Pradesh 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 .

Onion Exports Resume with Minimum Price Threshold of USD 550/Tonne

Onion Exports Resume with Minimum Price Threshold of USD 550/Tonne The government on Saturday lifted the ban on onion exports but imposed a minimum export price (MEP) of USD 550 per tonne, amid ongoing Lok Sabha elections in the country. Last night, the government imposed a 40 per cent duty on export of onions. In August last year, India had imposed a 40 per cent export duty on onions up to December 31, 2023. ''The export policy of onions is amended from prohibited to free subject to MEP of USD 550 per metric ton with immediate effect and until further orders,'' the directorate general of foreign trade (DGFT) said in a notification. On December 8, 2023, the government banned export of onions from March 31 this year. In March, the export prohibition was extended till further orders. In March, the Union Agriculture Ministry released the data for onion production. As per the data, onion production in 2023-24 (First Advance Estimates) is expected to be around 254.73 lakh tonnes compared to around 302.08 lakh tonnes last year. This is due to a decrease of 34.31 lakh tonnes output in Maharashtra, 9.95 lakh tonnes in Karnataka, 3.54 lakh tonnes in Andhra Pradesh and 3.12 lakh tonnes in Rajasthan, the data showed. Last month, in an official statement, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution said the government has allowed export of 99,150 tonnes of onion to six neighbouring countries of Bangladesh, UAE, Bhutan, Bahrain, Mauritius and Sri Lanka. Farmers in Maharashtra had protested against the export ban. The Congress last month accused the Narendra Modi government of ''callously neglecting'' Maharashtra's onion farmers reeling due to the ban on onion exports and said that its manifesto promises a predictable import-export policy to prevent such catastrophic last-minute policies being imposed on farmers.

AP LAWCET 2024 Registration Window Closes For Without Late Fee; Check Exam Pattern Here - Jagran English

AP LAWCET 2024 Registration Window Closes For Without Late Fee; Check Exam Pattern Here Jagran English

Heat waves forecast for 227 mandals in Andhra Pradesh on Saturday

Motorists cover Scarf their heads due to heat waves on Bandar Road in Vijayawada on Tuesday. Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) managing director R Kurmanadh said 227 mandals in the state are expected to experience heat waves on Saturday. Of the 227 mandals, 58 of them would experience severe heat waves, while 169 are expected to witness heat waves, he said. Severe heat waves have been forecast for 12 mandals in Srikakulam district, Vizianagaram (23 mandals), Parvatipuram Manyam (14), Visakhapatnam (one) and Anakapalli (eight), he said in a press release on Friday. Heat waves are predicted in 13 mandals in Srikakulam district, Vizianagaram (three mandals) and one each in Parvatipuram Manyam, Nellore, Sri Satyasai, West Godavari and Annamayya. Similarly, Alluri Sitaramaraju and Krishna (nine each), Visakhapatnam (two), Anakapalli (10), Konaseema and Tirupati (five each), Kakinada (17), East Godavari (four), Eluru (11), NTR (six), Guntur (14) and Palnadu (22) are to witness heat waves. Heat waves have also been forecast for three mandals in Bapatla district, Prakasam (14), Kadapa (four) and Tirupati (five). On Friday, Gospadu and Bandi Atmakuru in Nandyala district logged a maximum temperature of 47.7 degrees celsius each, followed by Ardhaveedu in Prakasam (47.3 C) and Chinnacheppali in Kadapa (47.2 C). Likewise, Veepinapi Akkamambapuram in Nellore (47.1 C), Peddakannali in Tirupati (46.9 C) and Panchalingala in Kurnool (46.8 C), among others. Kurmanadh advised people to stay indoors as much as possible between 11 am and 4 pm, and take precautions.

AP POLYCET Answer Key 2024: Last date to raise objections today, how to apply

Andhra Pradesh State Board released the AP POLYCET 2024 provisional answer key and response sheet. The exam assessed eligibility for polytechnic courses. Candidates can raise objections via email until May 4. Final answer key will be available on May 5.

AP POLYCET Answer Key 2024: Last date to raise objections today, how to apply - The Times of India

AP POLYCET Answer Key 2024: Last date to raise objections today, how to apply The Times of India

Naidu asked to seek votes based on deeds, not promises

VIJAYAWADA: AP State Planning Board vice chairman and YSR Congress MLA Malladi Vishnu has challenged Telugu Desam chief Nara Chandrababu Naidu to ask for votes based on what the TDP government had done for welfare of people and development of Andhra Pradesh. Campaigning in Vijayawada Central constituency, he dared Naidu and TD leaders to have the courage to talk about the 600 promises that the former chief minister had made during the previous elections. Vishnu said Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has fulfilled all his poll promises. They are hence going to every house with the Navaratnalu Plus manifesto and seeking votes on basis of fulfilling their promises. He maintained that it is the responsibility of everyone to make Jagananna, who is providing welfare schemes, the Chief Minister again, so that living standards of poor could improve further and real development come about. The State Planning Board vice chairman criticised Chandrababu Naidu for never thinking about the economic development of poor and women during his 40 years of political history, including 14 years as the CM. He maintained that under Jagananna government, progress has been made in every aspect of development, including education, medicine and housing.

Andhra Pradesh polls: Politics not five-minute noodles, needs patience: Pawan Kalyan - Udayavani English

Andhra Pradesh polls: Politics not five-minute noodles, needs patience: Pawan Kalyan Udayavani English

Mangalagiri Weavers' Support: A Potential Game-Changer in Lokesh's Political Aspirations

Mangalagiri Weavers' Support: A Potential Game-Changer in Lokesh's Political Aspirations Nestled between Vijayawada and Guntur in Andhra Pradesh, Mangalagiri, a temple town, suddenly emerged as the cynosure of the country between 2014 and 2019 after former chief minister and TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu during his tenure declared that Amaravati would be the capital city. Mangalagiri segment hosts some of the villages which would have been part of the capital (Amaravati) had Naidus pet project been taken off, but his successor and YSRCP chief Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy poured cold water on the formers capital's dreams. In the 2019 polls, Naidus son and TDPs general secretary Nara Lokesh contested the Assembly election from Mangalagiri segment but lost out to YSRCP rival A Ramakrishna Reddy. Despite winning the elections in 2014 and 2019, the incumbent MLA failed to find favour with the ruling party chief in bagging the ticket to contest the 2024 election, and was compelled to cede it to M Lavanya from the Padmasali (weavers) BC community, a numerically superior community in Mangalagiri constituency. Disgruntled, Ramakrishna Reddy exited the party, joined Congress, to do a volte-face and returned to the YSRCP fold in a short span of time recently. With an electorate of over 2.9 lakh voters -- 1.4 lakh male, 1.5 lakh female and 13 third gender -- Mangalagiri, famous for the two temples of Panakala Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy and Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy, has also carved a niche for itself in the realm of handlooms. D Tirupati Rao (38), who runs a handloom store on Tenali Road in the town, selling sarees and various other dress materials, appreciated Ramakrishna Reddy and said that he had done a good job, especially laying roads. ''In the past five years, Ramakrishna Reddy took special interest and did a better job like laying the roads, resolving Ratnala Cheruvu issue and returning it to us in which we (Padmasalis) built a Devasthanam (religious establishment) and also clearing other encroachments,'' Rao told PTI. However, he highlighted that the loss of the Amaravati capital city under the ruling YSRCP has dealt a major blow to not just the prospects of the weavers and handlooms business but also all other small businessmen, traders, vendors, hawkers and others. According to Rao, the capital city works during the TDP regime brought with it an influx of multitudes of people, who had come to construct Amaravati and also buy local wares, bolstering their businesses. He said Mangalagiri fabrics made of silk and cotton are renowned for their light weight and command a devoted following from people across the country. He noted that Mangalagiri people have already made up their minds on whom to vote, but wished that this constituency should be left for leaders from the majority Padmasali community in the future elections after 2024 polls. Claiming that weavers did not receive help from the government such as material or marketing, Rao noted that eligible people from his community did receive the Jagan Thodu direct benefit transfer (DBT) scheme. From around 10,000 handlooms at one time, Rao said they have come down to about 1,000 now, while youngsters from the community are turning towards lucrative gold work, adding that Lokesh is helping the community by involving the Tata Group to further Mangalagiri handloom fabrics. A few lanes away near the famous Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy temple, 28-year-old S Kanthi Kumar from Kothapeta area in Mangalagiri thanked Ramakrishna Reddy for giving him a pushcart to sell fruits. Over the past five years, Lokesh and Ramakrishna Reddy have literally competed with each other in endearing themselves to the local populace. A short ride through Undavalli and Tadepalli villages will show up several pushcarts, thanking and bearing the insignia of TDP and YSRCP, and also thanking Lokesh and the ruling party MLA. Kumar alternates between selling fruits and also pulling a rickshaw with his father to eke out a living. He is all praise for the YSRCP government and its welfare regime. ''We are getting all the welfare schemes but did not get the housing plot as Chandrababu filed cases against it in court. However, Jagan promised that he would give us a plot once the court case gets resolvedJagans reign is good, we are receiving all schemes on time,'' said Kumar. Eulogising the governments special interest in education, he observed that they didnt benefit much under the TDP regime. Kumar said his sisters children are beneficiaries of education-focused DBT schemes such as Amma Vodi and others, adding that they are in the process of learning English. G Venkata Ramana (55), another rickshaw puller and a father of three daughters is not very excited about the YSRCP government, contrasting that he used to get welfare schemes in a quicker fashion under the TDP government, and also received a housing plot at Lakshmi Narasimha Colony. Further, Ramana observed that law and order was under better control during the TDP regime than under the current government. Srinivas Rao (50), who had donated 10 cents of land, along with other donors, for laying a road in Undavalli village said that the YSRCP MLA came forward to help the villagers with this local project. ''It would have been good had the capital city been here (Amaravati). Even Chandrababu said the capital was temporary. It would have been good had it been permanent,'' said Srinivas Rao, who runs a mess. He said the loss of capital also significantly eroded his mess business. Local economy distress due to the capital issue is a ubiquitous theme running across the constituency, from a fruit vendor to small traders, businessmen and even a chicken pakodi seller. ''Let anybody rule us, be it TDP or YSRCP. But we only desire livelihood and business opportunities,'' said Sandu Srinivas Rao, who sells chicken delicacies on Undavalli road. With just nine more days to go for the May 13 election, Mangalagiri electorate is weighing its options between Lokesh and Lavanya while at the same time yearning for the capital and its associated business opportunities.

No relief from intense heat in Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha as mercury soars - MSN

No relief from intense heat in Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha as mercury soars MSN

Weekend Weather (May 4-5): Isolated Rains to Prevail Over Odisha, Haryana, Delhi, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh - The Weather Channel

Weekend Weather (May 4-5): Isolated Rains to Prevail Over Odisha, Haryana, Delhi, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh The Weather Channel

Andhra Pradesh polls: Politics not 'five-minute noodles', needs patience, says Pawan Kalyan

Pawan Kalyan stresses trust in politics in Visakhapatnam, advocating for NDA in Andhra Pradesh. He urges support for TDP and BJP in the upcoming elections, criticizing YSR Congress and Congress's past decisions.

Politics not five-minute noodles, needs patience: Pawan Kalyan

Visakhapatnam: Politics is not a five-minute noodles and one can not expect quick results as leaders have to earn the trust of people by withstanding turbulence and setbacks, Janasena founder and actor Pawan Kalyan has said. Janasena, TDP and BJP are NDA partners in Andhra Pradesh for the May 13 polls. Comparing the vision 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 .

Performance brings me a profound sense of satisfaction

HYDERABAD: Her resilient spirit propelled Dr Maddali Usha Gayatri through illness, allowing her to showcase an unwavering strength and dedication to her craft. As a Kuchipudi dancer, she has not only conquered challenges but also inspired countless individuals striving for excellence in their chosen paths. Recently honoured with the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award 2023 by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, Dr Gayatri has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of the nation. In a candid conversation with CE, she shares her remarkable journey thus far. Tell us about your experience of receiving the award from the President. It was an unforgettable experience meeting the President and being honoured with the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award. My roots in Telangana run deep, as my parents settled in Hyderabad back in 1956, and Ive always felt a profound connection to this place. Being recognised by my country for my artistic endeavours was incredibly meaningful to me. As an artiste, recognition from society, government, and ones own state or country is something we all aspire to. To receive the highest accolade, the Hamsa award, both from the government of Andhra Pradesh, with the blessings of C Narayana Reddy, and later from the President, was truly humbling. It validated decades of dedication and hard work in my field. The moment when the President bestowed the award upon me was one of immense pride and gratitude. It symbolised not just an individual achievement but also a recognition of the artistic community as a whole. Tell us about your journey thus far. My parents, especially my mother, had a vision of nurturing two girls into the world of artistry. My sister, Uma Gayatri, was earmarked to become a Bharatanatyam dancer, while I was destined for Kuchipudi. It was a choice I embraced wholeheartedly, guided by my mothers unwavering support and belief in the power of artistic expression. My journey towards Kuchipudi was sparked by witnessing the mesmerising performance of the legendary Kuchipudi dancer, Padma Shree Dr Vedantam Satyanarayana Sarma, who enthralled audiences with his rendition of Bhama Kalapam at the World Telugu Conference. His artistry left an indelible mark on my soul, drawing me irresistibly towards the rich tradition of Kuchipudi. My mothers words echoed in my mind: to succeed, one must be prepared to fight for recognition. Though I may have been considered too young to make such a significant choice at the age of four, my guru paved the way for me, nurturing my talent and dedication. Today, I impart the same wisdom to my students, guiding them on their own paths of artistic discovery. One of my earliest students, Dr Sailaja Desai, performed her Arangatam on the very day my marriage was arranged, marking a serendipitous convergence of personal and artistic milestones. Since then, Ive choreographed and overseen the performance of 45 Arangatams, each one a testament to the enduring legacy of Kuchipudi, transcending borders and reaching enthusiasts around the globe. Pic: Vinay Madapu Are your sons also following the same path as you? While the field of performing arts may hold great allure, the harsh reality is that it often struggles to provide a stable livelihood. Traditionally, it has been perceived as male-dominated, with men predominantly taking centre stage. However, the landscape has evolved, and the practice of men portraying female roles has largely faded away. In contemporary times, many young men opt for more financially secure paths, such as engineering, leaving behind the pursuit of the arts. As a mother of two sons, Ive witnessed this trend firsthand. One of my sons resides in the US, where his wife practices as a doctor, while my other son has chosen the field of events. Meanwhile, my second daughter-in-law is not only a teacher but also a performer, carrying on the family tradition. I earnestly hope that she continues to nurture her passion for the performing arts and approaches it with the same dedication and seriousness that I did. Its essential for future generations to recognise the intrinsic value of artistic expression and to support those who choose to pursue it. Any performance that is close to your heart? Kuchipudi embodies a fusion of performance and emotional expression, making it a captivating art form. Personally, I am drawn to its ability to convey deep emotions through movement and expression. Before I was impacted by a brain stroke, I had the privilege of being invited to Guntur, where I delivered a heartfelt performance that spanned an hour. Additionally, Ive had the opportunity to showcase these emotionally resonant segments of Kuchipudi in London, where audiences were moved by the depth of expression. Engaging in these performances brings me a profound sense of satisfaction, as they allow me to connect with both my audience and the essence of the art form itself. How did the dance genre evolve over the years? Establishing any dance style requires dedication and a deep connection to the art form. Its essential to wholeheartedly embrace the art and internalise its essence to do justice to what youve learned. The manner in which one learns is crucial; its not merely about mastering the steps but also understanding the soul of the dance. In a world teeming with diverse dance forms and dancers, only a select few rise to prominence. This ascent is fuelled by an unwavering passion for the craft. To truly excel, individuals must commit themselves wholeheartedly, taking their passion seriously and dedicating themselves to continuous improvement. Ultimately, the responsibility lies with the artist to foster a connection between people and the art form. Its incumbent upon us to shoulder this responsibility and nurture the growth and appreciation of the art, ensuring its enduring legacy. How supportive was your family? My husband and in-laws were very supportive. Through their support I could go around and perform on stage. They have encouraged me. They took care of everything whenever I was busy with my performances. What message for upcoming artistes? While I may not consider myself too prominent to impart wisdom, I do feel a sense of responsibility to share a message with others. Whatever path you choose in life, whether its in the arts or elsewhere, always strive to give your best and approach it with unwavering passion. Never abandon your connection to your art; treat it like a cherished mother whose embrace will console you through lifes trials. Remain sincere and dedicated, pouring your heart and soul into everything you do. Hard work and sincerity are the cornerstones of success in any endeavour.

Congress promises national status for PRLIS, Medaram Jatara

HYDERABAD: Revival of Information Technology and Investment Region (ITIR), setting up of steel factory at Bayyaram, railway coach factory, Indian Institute of Management (IIM), a Supreme Court bench in Hyderabad, National Sports University and a NITI Aayog regional office are among the 23 promises made by the Congress in its Telangana-specific Lok Sabha election manifesto it released at Gandhi Bhavan here on Friday. The state Congress made these promises in addition to the partys national manifesto Paanch Nyay. AICC Telangana in-charge Deepa Dasmunshi, State Manifesto Committee chairman and IT Minister D Sridhar Babu and members of the committee were present on the occasion. It may be recalled that the BJP government at the Centre had scrapped the ITIR in 2022. The TPCC manifesto also promises to merge five villages in Bhadrachalam Yetapaka, Gundala, Purushottam Patnam, Kannaigudem and Pichukalapadu with Telangana. The villages were merged with Andhra Pradesh after bifurcation. National status for Palamuru- Rangareddy Lift Irrigation Scheme (PRLIS), Medaram Sammakka-Saralamma Jatara, new airports, direct transfer of Central grants to sarpanches, Ramagundam-Manuguru railway line, four new Sainik schools, increase in the number of Kendriya Vidyalayas, double Navodaya Vidyalayas, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), National Aviation University, Indian Agriculture Research Institute (IARI) campus, an advanced medical and health research institute under ICMR are among other commitments made by the Congress for Telangana. It also promises to set up solar power generating system in every household. Hyderabad-Bengaluru IT & industrial corridor The other promises included setting up of Hyderabad-Bengaluru IT and industrial corridor, Hyderabad-Nagpur industrial corridor, Hyderabad-Warangal industrial corridor, Hyderabad-Miryalaguda industrial corridor through Nalgonda and Singareni industrial corridor, cultural and entertainment hub with international standards and a dry port. Speaking on the occasion, Sridhar Babu stated that the the Congress within 100 days of coming to power had streamlined the administration, which was allegedly left in a shambles by the BRS. Dasmunshi said that the Congress would fulfil the promises made in the AP Reorganisation Act after coming to power at the Centre, including establishment of a railway coach factory at Kazipet, Bayyaram steel plant, IIM in Hyderabad, rapid railway transport system between Hyderabad and Vijayawada and a mining university. She alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi set a target of winning 400 seats with the goal of changing the Constitution.

Politics Not a Quick Fix, Requires Patience: Pawan Kalyan

Politics Not a Quick Fix, Requires Patience: Pawan Kalyan Politics is not a five-minute noodles and one can not expect quick results as leaders have to earn the trust of people by withstanding turbulence and setbacks, Janasena founder and actor Pawan Kalyan has said. Janasena, TDP and BJP are NDA partners in Andhra Pradesh for the May 13 polls. Comparing the vision of the National Democratic Alliance for Andhra Pradesh, and that of the ruling YSR Congress party in the state, he said the former has got more credible leadership, people with commitment and experience. He appealed to the people to vote for the alliance, alleging that Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy completely damaged and messed up the state during the last five years. ''You have to understand. We all think that politics is a fast food (and expect) fast food results. You want to make it immediately. You want results immediately. It is not a five-minute Maggi noodles. When I look at Lok Nayak Jai Prakash, when I look at Ramana Lohia, all the elders, even Mr Kanshi Ram, they lost and they gained. So it is like a political journey that goes on,'' the actor-politician told PTI Videos. He further said one has to be trusted by the people to believe that their leader can withstand the political odds, hurdles and turbulence. ''I think I have achieved that part now. The result would be seen evidently in the coming elections,'' the Janasena leader said. On the issue of ''Special Category Status'' for Andhra Pradesh promised by Congress and BJP, during the bifurcation of the southern state, Kalyan said it is ''spilled milk'' and has taken a different form. Replying to a query about the Congress party, he said though he personally admired Rahul Gandhi for his marathon walk from Kanyakumari to Kashmir, the grand old party which was once the backbone to Andhra Pradesh, made a colossal mistake for the state. ''Congress has really made a big mistake. In fact, Andhra Pradesh was a backbone for Congress and they have cut off their own supporting system. Again, they are trying to rebuild it, and people have moved away. Personally, people might like him (Rahul Gandhi), but as a party, still, it doesnt resonate with people,'' he opined. On his ''good'' relations with BJP, Kalyan said he will use them for the betterment of the state. Attacking YSR Congress, he appealed to people to choose and vote carefully this time. ''I want people to decide very cautiously and carefully. One mistake of yours is taking away five years of your time. You have voted for Jagan once and you lost everything,'' he said. As part of a seat sharing deal among NDA partners, the TDP was allocated 144 Assembly and 17 Lok Sabha constituencies, while the BJP will contest from six Lok Sabha and 10 Assembly seats. Janasena will contest two Lok Sabha and 21 Assembly seats. Elections for the 175-member Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh are scheduled to be held on May 13.

Andhra Pradesh: 29th Paediatric Cardiac Surgical Camp concludes

VIJAYAWADA : Celebrating the successful completion of the 29th Paediatric Cardiac Surgical Camp conducted by Andhra Hospitals in collaboration with UK-based Healing Little Hearts, Managing Director of Heat and Brain Institute at Andhra Hospitals, Dr PV Ramana Murthy, said that the feat has marked a monumental achievement in providing care to children. Over six days, from April 29 to May 4, the skilled hands of Dr Andrew Parry, Consultant Paediatric Cardiac Surgeon from Bristol, United Kingdom, along with the cardiac surgical team led by Dr Sai Ram, performed a commendable total of 15 free heart surgeries. These surgeries addressed a range of complex conditions, including Aorto-pulmonary window with Interrupted aortic arch, obstructive Total anomalous pulmonary venous connections (TAPVD), mitral valve (parachute) repair, Tetralogy of Fallot, and PA banding, among others. Chief of Childrens Services Dr PV Rama Rao, extended congratulations to the teams. Paediatric Cardiologist Dr Vikram, Paediatric Cardiac Surgeon Dr Sai Ram, Cardiac Surgeon Dr Nageswara Rao, Senior Cardiologist Dr Sreemannarayana, Cardiac Anaesthetist Dr Ramesh, and several others were present.

Andhra Pradesh: Caste equations

An analysis of the caste composition of candidates fielded by the YSRC and the TDP-JSP-BJP combine for the 25 Lok Sabha seats in the State reveals the fact that caste factor is one of the criteria for selection, despite the political parties commitment to ensuring social justice. Total LS seats 25 YSRC ST - 1 (Valmiki) SC - 4 (3 Mala and 1 Madiga) BC - 11 (2 Turpu Kapu, 2 Settibalija, 2 Yadava, 2 Boya, 1 Kalinga, 1 Kuruba and 1 Velama) OC - 9 (5 Reddy, 3 Kapu and 1 Kamma) BJP-TDP-JSP BJP - 6, TDP - 17, JSP - 2 ST - 1 (Valmiki) SC - 4 (3 Mala and 1 Madiga) BC - 6 (2 Boya, 1 Koppula Velama, 1 Turpu Kapu, 1 Yadava and 1 Kuruba) OC - 14 (5 Kamma, 5 Reddy, 2 Kapu, 1 Kshatriya and 1 Velama)