Rahul Gandhi has no moral right to do politics: Rajnath Singh over Pakistan leader's comment

The Defence Minister highlighted that BJP conferred Bharat Ratna to former Prime Minister PV Narsimha Rao, a Congress leader who also served as former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. BJP has given the country's highest honour to former Prime Minister of India PV Narasimha Rao 'Garu', who is respected all over India by the name of Telugu Bidda, by awarding him Bharat Ratna. But Congress has never gave him the respect that he deserved, he added.

DME, AP Senior Resident Recruitment 2024: Online Applications Invited for 241 Posts

The Government of Andhra Pradesh, through the Directorate of Medical Education, has released a notification for the recruitment of Senior Resident Vacancy. Eligible candidates interested in the vacancy details and meeting the eligibility criteria are invited to read the notification and attend the recruitment process.

Time For Andhras TDP To Re-Think Its Roots And Aspirations

Andhra Pradesh goes to the polls, both at the state (assembly) as well as the national (Lok Sabha) level on May 13, 2024. In both the state and national elections, The post Time For Andhras TDP To Re-Think Its Roots And Aspirations appeared first on The Commune .

Andhra Pradesh CEO Announces Deadline Extension for Poll Duty Employees to Exercise Franchise

Andhra Pradesh CEO Announces Deadline Extension for Poll Duty Employees to Exercise Franchise Andhra Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer Mukesh Kumar Meena on Sunday said that the Election Commission will facilitate another opportunity to vote for employees on election duty who missed exercising their franchise. During a visit to Vizianagaram to check voting facilities, the CEO noted that such employees will be given the opportunity on May 7 and 8. ''We are working with the goal to ensure that every employee discharging election duties will be offered the postal ballot facility,'' said Meena in a press release. In the event of eligible employees not finding their names on the postal ballot list and also in case of not applying for this facility, Meena said they can still go ahead and include their name to vote by producing the election duty order and identity card at their relevant facilitation centres. ''Home voting and postal ballot voting for all will be completed by (the) 9th of this month (May),'' the CEO told PTI. Further, he highlighted that minimum facilities and helpdesks have been arranged at all facilitation centres. Besides making all the necessary arrangements for conducting polls in the southern state, Meena observed that election staff have already undergone two rounds of training. Moreover, he noted that cash, liquor and other inducements worth Rs 450 crore have been seized in the run-up to polls until now. Elections for the 175-member Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh are scheduled on May 13.

INDIA bloc will not get even a single seat in Andhra Pradesh: Amit Shah

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DME, AP Recruitment 2024: Apply Online for 158 Tutor Posts in Andhra Pradesh

The Government of Andhra Pradesh, through the Directorate of Medical Education, has released a notification for the recruitment of Tutor Vacancy. Eligible candidates interested in the vacancy details and meeting the eligibility criteria are invited to read the notification and apply online. Here are the important details regarding the application process, fees, important dates, age limit, qualification, and vacancy details.

BJP ally Chandrababu Naidu promises 4% Muslim reservation in Andhra - India Today

BJP ally Chandrababu Naidu promises 4% Muslim reservation in Andhra India Today

'Development Derailed, Mafia Fostered, Unemployment At Its Peak': Amit Shah Slams CM Jagan In Andhra Pradesh - ABP Live

'Development Derailed, Mafia Fostered, Unemployment At Its Peak': Amit Shah Slams CM Jagan In Andhra Pradesh ABP Live

Delhi Court Grants Bail to Three Accused in Vivo Money Laundering Case

Delhi Court Grants Bail to Three Accused in Vivo Money Laundering Case A court here has granted bail to three people accused in a money laundering case against Chinese smartphone-maker vivo. Additional Sessions Judge Kiran Gupta granted the relief to Bhupinder Kaur, Gagandeep Singh and Weigang Wang in an order passed on May 1. The judge accepted the arguments made by senior advocate P K Dubey, appearing for Wang, who lives in Andhra Pradesh, that the accused persons were not arrested during the investigation. The accused persons had appeared before the court in pursuance to the summons issued by the judge while taking cognisance of a charge sheet by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the case. Dubey told the court that the investigation was already complete and no purpose will be served by sending the accused to judicial custody. The judge further noted that there was no allegations that the accused did not join or cooperate during the investigation. ''Keeping in view the overall facts and circumstances of the case coupled with the submissions made and the fact that the accused persons were not arrested during the course of investigation and there are no allegations that they did not cooperate during investigation, all the three bail applications are allowed,'' the judge said. The ED had opposed the bail applications, claiming that the accused were flight risk and the allegations against them were serious in nature. It had also claimed to have busted a major money laundering racket involving Chinese nationals and multiple Indian companies. The ED had alleged that a whopping Rs 62,476 crore was ''illegally'' transferred by vivo to China in order to avoid payment of taxes in India.

Will continue to support 4% Muslim quota: Chandrababu Naidu

Hyderabad: Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief and former Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu promised to preserve 4 per cent reservations to Muslims in the state, From the beginning, we are supporting 4% reservation and that will continue this, he said, speaking to ANI, on Sunday, May 4 in Dharmavaram. #WATCH | Dharmavaram, Andhra Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

BJP Chief Amit Shah Claims PM Modi Gathering Momentum Towards 400 Seat Mark After 3rd Phase of LS Polls

BJP Chief Amit Shah Claims PM Modi Gathering Momentum Towards 400 Seat Mark After 3rd Phase of LS Polls Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday exuded confidence that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be heading towards the 400-seat mark after the third phase of the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. He also opined that the number of seats gained by the BJP after the first two rounds of polling would have crossed 100. Addressing an NDA rally here, Shah accused the ruling YSR Congress in Andhra Pradesh of encouraging corruption and crime in Andhra Pradesh. Mocking INDI Alliance partners, Shah said none of the INDIA bloc leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, were fit to lead the country, while on the other hand, the whole country has decided to make Modi the Prime Minister for the third time. Taking a dig at the YS Jagan Mohan Reddy-led government, he said the BJP, Telugu Desam Party, and actor Pawan Kalyan-led Janasena forged an alliance to bring to an end the alleged rule of goondas and criminals, rampant corruption and sand mafia in the state and to make Amravati the capital of Andhra Pradesh once again. Lok Sabha elections are held in the country. There are assembly as well as Lok Sabha polls held in Andhra Pradesh simultaneously. The first two phases of the general elections are over. In the first two phases, Modi is ahead, getting 100 seats. In the third phase, he is moving towards getting over 400 seats, Shah opined. The Home Minister said he was in Andhra Pradesh to lend strength to the BJP, TDP, and Jana Sena alliance's fight against corruption, crime, mafia and conversion in the state. The whole country has decided to make Modi the Prime Minister for the third time, he said while asserting that none of the INDIA bloc leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, were fit to lead the country. Charging Reddy with trying to kill the Telugu language by introducing the English medium in primary education, Shah assured that the BJP would not allow such moves. Describing the Polavaram Project as the lifeline of Andhra Pradesh, the union minister alleged that it was derailed due to corruption in the state government. I came to give you a Modi guarantee. You vote Chandrababu Naidu (NDA) to power in Andhra Pradesh and Narendra Modi at the Centre. Within two years, Polavaram will be completed and water will be given to farmers, Shah assured. He alleged that the Congress party neglected the Ram Temple issue for 70 years whereas PM Modi performed 'Bhoomi Puja' and also consecrated it during his second term. Both Jaganmohan Reddy and Rahul Gandhi were invited for the Ram Temple consecration, but they did not attend. Will you vote for people who did not attend the Ram Temple consecration ? Shah asked. Seeking votes for the NDA candidates, Shah listed out the achievements of the NDA government at the Centre.

Jagan Mohan Reddy has halted development in Andhra Pradesh, says Amit Shah - Moneycontrol

Jagan Mohan Reddy has halted development in Andhra Pradesh, says Amit Shah Moneycontrol

Lok Sabha Elections 2024 News | Meet Your Neta : Congress Kadapa Candidate YS Sharmila | N18V

Lok Sabha Elections 2024 News | Meet Your Neta : Congress Kadapa Candidate YS Sharmila | N18VAndhra Pradesh Congress committee (APCC) chief YS Sharmila underlined that she was former Chief minister Dr YS Rajasekhar Reddy's daughter and not the teammate of TDP chief Nara Chandrababu Naidu.

AP SSC 2024 supplementary exam timetable released, check full schedule here

The Andhra Pradesh Board of Secondary Education (BSEAP) has announced the schedule for the AP Board Class 10 supplementary exams for 2024. These exams offer students an opportunity to enhance their scores in subjects they feel they could improve upon. Scheduled from May 24 to June 3, 2024, the SSC Advanced Supplementary Examinations will cover subjects such as First Language, Second Language, English, Mathematics, Physical Science, Biological Science, and Social Studies. The exams will be held from 9:30 am to 12:45 pm, with some variations in timing for certain subjects. Students can find detailed information on the official website, bse.ap.gov.in.

BJP Leading in First Two Phases of Lok Sabha Polls: Amit Shah in Andhra Pradesh

BJP Leading in First Two Phases of Lok Sabha Polls: Amit Shah in Andhra Pradesh Union Home Minister Amit Shah, on the campaign trail in Andhra Pradesh, on Sunday said after the first two phases of the general elections in the country, Narendra Modi has hit a century and was moving forward towards getting over 400 seats. Addressing a poll rally in Dharmavaram Assembly constituency in the state, Shah also attacked Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy and the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), accusing them of encouraging corruption, sand and land mafias and crime in Andhra Pradesh. The Home Minister said he was in Andhra Pradesh to lend strength to the BJP, TDP and Jana Sena alliance's fight against corruption, crime, mafia and conversion in the state. He said they formed the alliance to bring an end to the alleged rule of goondas and criminals, rampant corruption and sand mafia in the state and to make Amravati the capital of Andhra Pradesh once again. Shah further said the whole country has decided to make Modi the Prime Minister for the third time, asserting that none of the INDIA bloc leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, were fit to lead the country.

Will Chandrababu Naidu's winning streak continue in Kuppam?.. - Greatandhra

Will Chandrababu Naidu's winning streak continue in Kuppam?.. Greatandhra

After first two phases of LS polls, Modi is ahead: Amit Shah in Andhra Pradesh

Dharmavaram (Andhra Pradesh), May 5: Union Home Minister Amit Shah, on the campaign trail in Andhra Pradesh, on Sunday said after the first two phases of the general elections in the country, Narendra Modi has hit a century and was moving forward towards getting over 400 seats. Addressing a poll rally in Dharmavaram Assembly constituency in the state, Shah also attacked Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy and the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), accusing them of encouraging corruption, sand [] The post After first two phases of LS polls, Modi is ahead: Amit Shah in Andhra Pradesh appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

BJP chief rules out Rahul Gandhi as PM in Andhra Pradesh speech

BJP chief rules out Rahul Gandhi as PM in Andhra Pradesh speech None of INDIA bloc leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, were fit to be PM: Amit Shah in Andhra Pradesh.

Shah: Country Has Decided to Elect Modi for Third Term as PM

Shah: Country Has Decided to Elect Modi for Third Term as PM Today I am telling you the whole country has decided to make Modi ji Prime Minister for the third time: Amit Shah in Andhra Pradesh.

Amit Shah: Alliance with TDP, Jana Sena to Reinstate Amravati as Andhra Pradesh Capital

Amit Shah: Alliance with TDP, Jana Sena to Reinstate Amravati as Andhra Pradesh Capital We came into alliance with TDP and Jana Sena to make Amravati capital of Andhra Pradesh once again: Amit Shah.

BJP Joins Forces with TDP, Jana Sena to Combat Corruption, Sand Mafia in Andhra Pradesh: Amit Shah

BJP Joins Forces with TDP, Jana Sena to Combat Corruption, Sand Mafia in Andhra Pradesh: Amit Shah BJP came into alliance with TDP, Jana Sena to end rampant corruption and sand mafia in Andhra Pradesh: Amit Shah.

We came into alliance to end rule of goondas and criminals, Amit Shah hits out at YSRCP government in Andhra Pradesh.

We came into alliance to end rule of goondas and criminals, Amit Shah hits out at YSRCP government in Andhra Pradesh. We came into alliance to end rule of goondas and criminals, Amit Shah hits out at YSRCP government in Andhra Pradesh.

Sand policy and Andhra Pradesh polls: Why 30 lakh construction sector workers across 40 trades matter - South First

Sand policy and Andhra Pradesh polls: Why 30 lakh construction sector workers across 40 trades matter South First

AP POLYCET 2024 final answer key out at apsbtet.ap.gov.in, download link here

The Andhra Pradesh State Board of Technical Education and Training has released the final answer key for the AP POLYCET 2024 exam on May 5. This exam, conducted on April 27, determines eligibility for diploma-level courses in polytechnic colleges across Andhra Pradesh. Candidates can download the final answer key from the official website at apsbtet.ap.gov.in. The release follows a review of objections raised against the provisional answer key released earlier.

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.

Campaigning picks up pace in Reddys stronghold

RAJAMAHENDRAVARAM: Known for the hub of financiers and money lenders whose turnover is believed to surpass crores of rupees per month, Anaparthi Assembly constituency is a bastion of Reddy community, which dominates the political landscape of the segment, with more than 50,000. Located between Rajamahendravaram and Samalkot, the constituency is rich in paddy cultivation and rice mills. The segment is also famous for the eye hospital established by Dr Tetali Satyanarayana Reddy, where people from across the State opt the services of the facility. Since its inception, the segment has been one of the strongholds for TDP, which won the seat five times, followed by Congress three times, and YSRC emerged victorious one time. Remember, former MLA Nallamilli Moola Reddy won the 1983, 1985, 1994 and 1999 elections under the TDP banner. In 2014, his son and TDP leader Nallamilli Ramakrishna Reddy emerged victorious. Sitting YSRC MLA Satti Suryanarayana Reddy is a strong candidate and wields a good command on the constituency. On the other hand, as part of the alliance, TDP has given the ticket to Nallamilli Ramakrishna Reddy, who joined BJP which has no base in the constituency. Dr Sathi Suryanarayana Reddy, YSRC Earlier, BJP had allocated the seat to ex-serviceman Sivaramakrishnam Raju. However, considering the poll calculations, Nallamilli Ramakrishnareddy was asked to join BJP and was allocated the ticket. YSRC candidate Satti Suryanarayana Reddy has intensified his campaign. He pinned his hopes on welfare schemes of the YSRC government. To counter the stance of YSRC, BJP MP candidate Daggubati Purendeswari is also extensively touring the constituency to garner the support of the electorate. She is taking all possible steps to get a lead in this constituency. The people of the segment have been demanding a halt for trains at Anaparthi and Dwarapudi railway stations. They expressed their distress stating that they had to travel either to Rajamahendravaram or Samalkot to board long-distance trains. The people are also requesting the railway department to construct an underpass in Anaparthi village.

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.

Postal ballot voting begins in NTR district

VIJAYAWADA: Postal ballot voting proceeded smoothly in NTR district, with officials assigned election duties seamlessly exercising their voting rights. NTR District Collector S Dilli Rao ensured that all necessary arrangements were in place for employees who applied for postal ballots through Form-12. He inspected the centralised Voter Facilitation Centre at the Indira Gandhi Municipal Stadium, issuing instructions to election officials and employees. Over 23,000 officers and staff submitted Form-12 applications for postal ballots, catering to their voting needs during election duties in the district. The voting process for staff assigned election duties in NTR district was scheduled for May 4, 5, and 6, from 9 am to 5 pm, at the facilitation centres of their respective constituency returning officers. For those with voting rights in other districts, arrangements were made to collect postal ballots through the concerned district election officials, allowing them to vote at the centralised facilitation centre at the Indira Gandhi Municipal Stadium. Training programmes were conducted for presiding and assistant presiding officers on their election duties, said Collector. OPOs and other election staff were directed to exercise their voting rights at their residential constituencys facilitation center, bypassing the need to visit the centralised facilitation centre. Dilli Rao also informed that an information centre was set up at the Facilitation Centre to guide employees through the postal voting process. After verification of Election Photo Identity Card (EPIC), constituency-specific ballot papers were distributed to the employees, along with instructions on using the postal ballot papers and related forms. The Collector noted that the first day of postal ballot voting proceeded peacefully, reflecting the efficient conduct of the electoral process.

Severe heatwave likely in 30 AP mandals on May 5

VIJAYAWADA: A severe heatwave is likely to prevail in 30 mandals, and 247 mandals are likely to experience heatwave-like conditions on Sunday. The IMD forecasted a heatwave at isolated places across the State on Sunday and Monday. IMD predicted thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of speeds 30-50 kmph are likely at isolated places across the State for the same period. On Saturday, AP largely experienced hot and humid conditions with daytime temperatures above 400 C at most places. APSDMA, in its daily bulletin on Saturday, stated that as many as 28 mandals experienced severe heatwave, and 187 mandals reported heatwave. Darimadugui of Prakasam district recorded the highest daytime temperature of 47.50 C, followed by Kalasapadu in the YSR district at 46.40 C, Kovelakuntla of Nandyal district at 46.20 C , and Veinapi Akkamambapuram in Nellore district at 46.10 C. Meanwhile, Vagaruru of Kurnool recorded daytime temperatures at 45.70 C, Vijayapuri South of Palnadu district at 45.40 C, Hussain Puram of Anantapur at 44.80 C.

Toddy tappers in Telangana reap rich harvest of Haritha Haram

SIDDIPET: Haritha Haram programme, launched with a view to increasing the green cover in Telangana, has come as a boon in disguise for toddy tappers. The toddy saplings that were planted about eight years ago have now grown to full size and are ready for tapping alcoholic beverage. With a lot of trees yielding plenty of toddy, there is no shortage of unadulterated beverage a win-win situation for both consumers and toddy tappers. About 50 families from Kishtasagar village, which is two-and-a-half-km away from the district headquarters of Siddipet, tap toddy and sell it to consumers from 5.30 am to 10.00 am and earn a cool Rs 1,000 a day. People from Siddipet town and surrounding villages make it a point to go to Kishtasagar to consume unadulterated toddy. To keep the faith of their loyal costumers, Kishtasagar Geetha Karmika Sangam (KGKS) has decided to cancel the membership of those who resort to adulteration of toddy. When Nara Chandrababu Naidu was the chief minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh, about 21 acres of land was allocated to toddy tappers to raise trees, according to Ensanpally Ramulu, president of KGKS. After bifurcation of the state, excise official planted toddy trees in eight acres in the village as part of the Haritha Haram programme of the previous BRS government. Out of 3,000 saplings planted in the village, 1,000 are yielding toddy now and helping toddy tappers to become financially independent, said Ramulu. According to him, each tree yields two-five litres of toddy every day and a litre of the brew fetches Rs 100. Mostly they have costumers coming from Siddipet and there is more rush on Saturdays and Sundays. Some times, consumers from as far as Hyderabad, Dubbak, Gajwel and other towns also come to the village for toddy. They tap toddy for three months and leave the palm trees untouched for a year. This one year holiday ensures higher yield of toddy from the tree, Ramulu explained. A graduate, Ramulu has chosen his family profession after failing to get a suitable job. He said he encouraged others from his community to take up toddy tapping.

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.

Discontent among coffee planters over dues out in open in Andhra's Araku - Business Standard

Discontent among coffee planters over dues out in open in Andhra's Araku Business Standard

Alleged drone incident sparks conflict between Anakapalle MP candidates

VISAKHAPATNAM: Tension prevailed in Taruva village of Devarapalli mandal in Anakapalle district, when supporters of YSRC Lok Sabha candidate and Deputy Chief Minister Budi Mutyala Naidu clashed with those of the TDP-JSP-BJP alliance candidate CM Ramesh on Saturday. The conflict arose when alleged drone operations by the latters supporters to hoist BJP flags triggered objections from Mutyala Naidus backers. The dispute centred around allegations of unauthorised drone operations, with Mutyala Naidu claiming surveillance was aimed at him while BJP workers said their actions were part of their campaign. The situation escalated when YSRC workers reportedly smashed the drone and assaulted BJP workers. Following the altercation, Mutyala Naidu himself reportedly got involved, purportedly assaulting his brother-in-law (first wifes younger brother) Ch Gangadhar, a local BJP leader, who was among those operating the drone. Gangadhar and his associates lodged a complaint at the Devarapalli police station, claiming they were detained by the police without any action taken against their assailants. CM Ramesh, on the other hand, demanded action against the attackers and staged a sit-in protest at the police station. Despite police advisories against visiting Taruva, Ramesh attempted to console Gangadhar, only to be stopped on the outskirts of the village. According to the police, both groups were dispersed, with Ramesh being escorted back to Anakapalle town. Multiple cases have been registered in connection with the incident.

TDP spent more on welfare schemes: Chandrababu Naidu

VIJAYAWADA: Refuting the charges of Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy that TDP didnt provide welfare schemes to people, TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu said that Jagan should remember that it is the TDP government which spent 19.15 per cent of budget for welfare schemes while the YSRC government spent only 15.8 per cent. Addressing public meetings at Darsi of Prakasam district, Nuzvid of Eluru district and at a roadshow in Kakinada district on Saturday, Naidu accused Jagan of rolling out the AP Land Titling Act to grab the lands of people. He said that though land records can be stored in the Government of India organisation like the National Information Centre, Jagan stored these records in a private California-based company named Critical River. Cautioning the people on the threats being posed by the Land Titling Act, the TDP chief informed them of the statement made by Jagan that an American-based company called Critical River Technology is maintaining the land records of the people here. If that company amends the records of your lands what will be the fate? Naidu asked. Stating that the Act came into effect on November 1, 2023, he asked the people whether they have ever seen such atrocious legislation. The Act has been brought in only with the sole aim of grabbing the lands of the people, Naidu criticised. Asking Jagan as to why he has printed his photo on the pattadar passbooks of lands of farmers in the State, the TDP supremo informed the public that there is no security for their properties with the Land Titling Act brought in by Jagan. Tearing into pieces a copy of the Gazette of the Land Titling Act at Darsi, Naidu announced that immediately after coming back to power the Act would be revoked. He expressed confidence that the NDA is forming the governments both at the Centre and in the State. Informing the public that the NDA has already announced a tremendous manifesto along with Super Six, the former chief minister said that once the NDA comes into power the State will certainly march forward in a progressive path. Labelling Jagan as the gang-leader of robbers and land-grabbers, Naidu appealed to the people to screw up the fan (symbol of the YSRC) and dump this useless government in a dustbin. He predicted that the anarchy that AP is now facing will end in another 10 days. Promising the people that assets will be created and the revenue generated from these properties will be distributed to the poor, the TDP supremo felt that Jagan lost his mental balance immediately after the NDA released its manifesto. Stating that Jagan has been concocting cock and bull stories as fear of losing power is haunting him, Naidu said that after blaming the Reliance Industries for the death of his father YS Rajasekhara Reddy and even encouraging his followers to damage its properties, Jagan after coming to power has offered Rajya Sabha membership for a person from the same organisation.

Will never let Telugu people suffer in State, vows Pawan Kalyan

VIJAYAWADA: Continuing his diatribe against YSRC president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan described YSRCs government as double DDadulu (attacks) and Dopidilu (looting)government. Addressing a public gathering at Gudivada in Krishna district on Saturday, he said all YSRC leaders know is to speak cuss words. Land Titling Act is for looting peoples properties, he said and urged people to throw out the Jagan government to safeguard their properties. Later, speaking at another meeting in Repalle of Bapatla district, Pawan asserted that an alliance will form the government and there is no doubt about it. Stating that stability in the State is only possible with the alliance forming the government, he assured that he would never let the self-respect of the Telugu people suffer. He wrapped up his campaign for the day in Avanigadda.

Chandrababu Naidu dangerous than Coronavirus, says Sajjala

VIJAYAWADA: Lashing out at TDP for its vicious propaganda on Land Titling Act, YSRC general secretary Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy said the yellow party is opposing it as they dont want an Act to stop land grabbing. He described Naidu as more dangerous than Corona virus and cautioned people not to believe him. Speaking to mediapersons in Vijayawada on Saturday, he questioned that should a person who was Chief Minister for 14 years accuse another person in the same post that he will grab lands using legislation. The Act is brought to stop the land grabbing. The modalities are yet to be made and even a Gazette notification was not issued. It may take some time, say two to three years, he maintained. Sajjala said if there is a person, who resorted to land grabbing, it is Chandrababu Naidu. In the name of Webland, Naidu resorted to land irregularities. Changes made in webland have put several people in trouble. In the name of deemed mutation, Naidu resorted to irregularities and grabbed the land. Jagan is trying to right the wrong and protect the lands, the YSRC leader explained. The YSRC leader said those who are habituated to looting peoples properties for their own and those who are close to them, do not like the reforms brought in to ensure genuine landholders do not lose rights on their lands.

Probe TDP paid IVR calls: EC to cyber cell CID

VIJAYAWADA: The Election Commission of India has directed the Additional Director General of CID (Cyber Cell) to take necessary action on the complaint from the YSRC regarding the purported propagation of false, incorrect and unverified allegations against the Land Titling Act through paid IVR calls by the TDP. Based on the complaint filed by Vijayawada Central YSRC MLA Malladi Vishnu that false propaganda was being spread through paid IVR calls from 07971318532, +917317956049 and +917313790769 numbers by the TDP and making false, unquantifiable, incorrect and unverified allegations regarding the Land Titling Act, a memo was issued by Additional Chief Electoral Officer MN Harendhira Prasad on Saturday. The memo sought the CID Additional Director General to take necessary action into the matter in accordance with the existing laws, and the extant instructions/guidelines of the ECI and furnish the action taken report, immediately. In the complaint to the Election Commission, the YSRC narrated a voice message from the TDP saying Dear public, be aware you are going to lose your wealth, with the Land Titling Act, and it will be implemented in two days, as responsible citizens you should vote to Chandrababu and save your wealth. The message in other voice records, which were submitted to the ECI, read Your land records and wealth records should be given to Jagan government, and you should only keep xerox copies, you heard it right, Jagan Land Titling Act, with this new Act your wealth will be stolen, it will be implemented in two days, dear public Beware ...important notice, your wealth is gone, your original land records must be given to Jagan government and you can only keep xerox set, yes you heard it right, Jagan Land Titling Act, with this new named Act, your wealth is escrowed, this will be implemented in two days, dear public Beware, Save your wealth, and only option for us, that is vote for responsible Chandrababu. Complaining that the voice recording and IVR calls are initiated by the opposition parties, especially the TDP, with a malafide intention and naming Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy as land grabber and everyone in the State would lose their own land if Jagan comes to power again is prima facie violation of Model Code of Conduct that is in force for the following reasons: As per the MCC guidelines, a party should not indulge in any activity propagating false, unquantifiable, unsubstantiated, incorrect and unverified allegations. However, the voice recordings of the IVR calls are intended to create fear among the voters, and winning of YSRC is detrimental to their wealth. As per the above-referred guideline, criticism of a political party must be confined only to policies and programme, past record and work. However, in the present case, TDP resorted to abusing Jagan in the guise of incorrectly stated information on the YSRC government policies and programmes, past records and work. The YSRC requested the ECI to take cognizance of the said IVR calls/voice recordings that are being made through different mobile numbers/telecom operators, those are being received by the voters. It is a clear violation of the MCC guidelines, to propagate such information, given by the Election Commission of India regarding the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee (MCMC). However, we learned that TDP has made foul play to get said MCMC certification from the authorities, without disclosing the actual information to be advertised as part of their campaign, misled the authorities, and the said advertising content violates the MCC guidelines. It is submitted that when the elections are nearing. The nomination phase is also completed such false information must not be made available since that would create fear in the public at large, disrupt social harmony, mislead the public at large, and illegality, influence the elections and accordingly, are violative of the Model Code of Conduct, the complaint read. It sought the ECI to direct the TDP to pull down and stop such activism, immediately call for the explanation for the same, and also direct the TDP to produce the required MCMC certification for the said paid advertisement, IVR calls made that are part of their party election campaign. It also wanted the ECI to direct the concerned telecom operators to stop facilitating such illegal election campaign and seek an explanation for allowing it to happen without necessary approvals. The YSRC also urged the EC to take strict action against the said paid advertisement and punish the personnel accountable for the same including, TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu, general secretary Nara Lokesh, and their electronic campaign team for perjury of the MCMC certification. The YSRC also wanted the ECI to direct the MCMC authority to call the certification taken with the falsity of information and cancel the same with immediate effect.

Chandrababu Naidu adopting double stance on 4% Muslim quota: CM Jagan

VIJAYAWADA: Asserting that his government will continue the 4% reservation for the Muslim minorities, YSRC supremo and Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy accused TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu of adopting double standards on the continuance of quota for them. Addressing an election rally in Nellore on Saturday, Jagan Mohan Reddy lambasted the TDP for allying with the BJP, which was against reservation to Muslims, and yet saying that he was committed to implementing it. Naidu has proved himself to be a political chameleon, he observed. CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy during public meeting at Hindupur on Saturday. The Chief Minister said that the 4% reservation given to the minorities is not based on religion, but on the basis of their backwardness. We are taking steps to eradicate poverty and improve the lives of the poor, but Naidus politics is akin to that of a chameleon, he said. Jagan promised to fight for the minorities on the 4% reservation, NRC, CAA, and any such minority-related issues. Their interests will be secured and supported by the YSRC, he added. Can Naidu dare to say the same thing to Modi and walk out of the NDA to fight for Muslims? he asked. Jagan said he had accorded priority to minorities and that was why he had nominated Muslims for seven of the 175 Assembly seats. Earlier, he accused the TDP of playing dirty politics on the Land Titling Act. Addressing an election rally in Hindupur, he said Naidu was spreading malicious propaganda on the Act. They are sending IVR calls to people saying that Jagan will grab all your lands. But the truth is that we give lands to the poor, not grab them, he asserted. Elaborating further, he said, the Act was to provide full rights to the farmers on the land. It is a major reform and saves people from running from pillar to post to get their land details. After the completion of the current survey, there will be no dispute on these lands, he added. Similarly, lies are being propagated regarding registrations with fake advertisements that physical documents were not given after registration. So far nine lakh registrations were done with the help of Card 2.0 software, and the documents were also given to the owners. The process has been simplified with a default format to fill the details so mistakes can be avoided in the document, he explained. Stating that the war between credibility and deceit will take place in nine days, he said, If the people vote for Jagan all the schemes will continue. If they vote for Naidu, it will be the end of the schemes. We have directly deposited Rs 2.70 lakh crore into the accounts of beneficiaries of various schemes, provided 2.31 lakh government jobs in the last 59 months, implemented 99% of the promises made in the YSRC manifesto, he highlighted. Noting that the welfare schemes targeting the poor were never the case in the previous administration, the Chief Minister said, The YSRC gave a pension of Rs 3,000, free crop insurance, input subsidy, free electricity for farmers during the day and supported the self-employed people like fishermen, small traders, labourers and lawyers with financial assistance. He also mentioned that nowhere in the history of the country has a government cared so much about the health of the poor like Andhra Pradesh. He also explained how beneficial the village and ward secretariat system has become as they offered 600 types of services. He also explained how Naidu failed to keep any of his promises made in 2014 and cautioned the people to be wary of him and not allow themselves to be taken for a ride once again. Jagan further said that Naidu was responsible for the peoples inconvenience in receiving the pension, and barring volunteers to deliver it at the doorstep by approaching the ECI. He urged the people to vote for YSRC and help it win all 175 Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha seats in the election to ensure the continuation of all the welfare schemes in the State. He also addressed an election meeting at Palamaner, where he highlighted the development programmes, like fishing harbours and ports that were taken up by his government.

Chittoor a blend of Telugu, Tamil cultures

CHITTOOR: Bordering Tamil Nadu, Chittoor Assembly constituency is a hub for diverse cultures and traditions, shaping the lifestyles of residents, who reflect a blend of Telugu and Tamil heritages. Apart from dairy and poultry industries, a significant portion of the population relies on mango cultivation for their livelihood. While the ruling YSRC is trying to retain the seat for the second consecutive time, with a new contender this time, the TDP is attempting to make a comeback in the Chittoor Assembly segment. The YSRC has fielded MC Vijayananda Reddy, the current APSRTC vice-chairman, as its candidate, while the TDP has chosen Gurajala Jagan as its candidate for this election. Interestingly, in the past, candidates representing the DMK and AIADMK parties have contested in this constituency, highlighting its strong Tamil influence. Chittoor, the administrative centre of the district, has also been home to leaders who made significant contributions to various political parties, including the Justice Party, Swatantra Party, and Krishikar Lok Party, both before and after Independence. Among them is Madabhusi Ananthsainam Ayyangar, a prominent figure who led the freedom movement in Chittoor district, served as a Member of Parliament for Chittoor Congress, and later became the Lok Sabha Speaker. The region has a rich history of producing numerous influential leaders who actively participated in the freedom movement and held esteemed positions such as chief ministers. The presence of Tamil film actor MG Ramachandran campaigning in Chittoor further underscores this influence. Despite being the district headquarters, Chittoor has not yet seen the appointment of a minister from this area. The political landscape of Chittoor constituency has witnessed several shifts over the years. The Congress, which held sway for nearly 25 years, ceded ground to the TDP in 1989. Notably, Chittoor Krishnaswamy Jayachandra Reddy, known as CK Babu, emerged as a formidable figure in politics. He initially won as an independent MLA in 1989, later joining the Congress and securing victory for three consecutive terms (1994, 1999, and 2009). The constituencys political history saw a mix of party victories. The first MLA from Chittoor constituency, Chinnama Reddy of the Congress, clinched victory in the 1952 election. However, in a 1953 by-election, Srungaram of the Krishikar Lok Party was elected. Chinnama Reddy reclaimed victory in 1955. In subsequent years, the political landscape witnessed victories from various parties. With the emergence of the TDP in 1983, NP Jhansi Lakshmi became the MLA, but in 1985, R Gopinathan of the Congress Party emerged victorious. After a two-decade hiatus, TDP candidate AS Manohar was elected as MLA in 2004, despite the Congress coming to power, defeating TDP. Following the states bifurcation in 2014, TDP candidate DA Satyaprabha secured victory. However, in 2019, she was defeated by YSRC candidate Jangalapalli Srinivasulu. This time, the YSRC nominated MC Vijayananda Reddy, the current APSRTC vice-chairman, as the constituency in-charge, subsequently granting him a ticket for the elections. Despite speculation that the Chittoor Assembly constituency, predominantly led by the Balija community, might sway towards the Jana Sena, the Telugu Desam Party surprised many by nominating developer and film producer Gurajala Jagan as its candidate in the initial list. Hailing from Chittoor, Gurajala Jagan made a name for himself as a realtor and developer in Bengaluru before venturing into establishing educational institutions. Transitioning into film production, he also initiated a charitable trust and organised various public outreach programmes in Chittoor in recent years. Following a setback in the 2019 polls and a leadership vacuum after former MLA AS Manohar retired from active politics, the TDP chose Gurajala Jagan as its candidate for the 2024 elections. Both Gurajala Jagan and YSRCs MC Vijayananda Reddy are political novices competing against each other after the ruling party replaced sitting MLA Arani Sreenivasulu. While the YSRC employs its trademark approach to secure its hold on Chittoor, Gurajala Jagan presents his own manifesto along with the TDPs six guarantees. Despite being the constituency headquarters, Chittoor lacks adequate education and healthcare facilities. Residents still rely on CMC-Vellore and SVIMS-Tirupati for specialised medical treatment and travel to Bengaluru or Chennai for higher education. I have plans to establish a multi-disciplinary super-specialty hospital and world-class educational institutions in Chittoor, said TDP nominee G Jagan Mohan. Farmers in Chittoor are advocating for establishing Chittoor as a poultry hub, driven by the surge in demand for traditional chicken meat in the market. Many small and medium farmers have embraced backyard poultry farming, particularly in rural areas like Chittoor rural and Gudipala mandals, opting to rear local breed chicks due to lower feed costs. With the increasing demand, farmers have also begun exporting local breed chicks to neighbouring Tamil Nadu and Karnataka from Chittoor district. Narrow roads with potholes and other civic issues have been haunting the residents of the Chittoor town. Traffic congestion in PCR junction, MSR junction and old bus stand areas is regularly seen in the town. Narrow roads in church road and also in other main areas of the town have witnessed traffic congestion. Potholed roads on rail over bridges have remained a permanent issue in the town. Number of vehicles and population has increased in the town when compared to previous years. But, the roads remain the same leading to traffic congestion in main circles of the town. Even residents of the outskirts colonies have been facing troubles getting drinking water during summer season, said M Siva Kumar, a private employee in Chittoor town.

BJP trying to bounce back in Godavari districts after drubbing in 2019 polls

RAJAMAHENDRAVARAM: The BJP is trying to bounce back after the drubbing it received in the 2019 elections in Godavari districts. In 2014, the BJP in alliance with the TDP and support of Jana Sena, won Rajamahendravaram City and Tadepalligudem Assembly seats, besides Narasapuram Lok Sabha seat in Godavari districts. The BJP as a partner of TDP - Jana Sena alliance is now contesting for Rajamahendravaram and Narasapuram Lok Sabha seats and Anaparthi Assembly seat in Godavari districts. In 2014, BJP candidate Gokaraju Gangaraju won Narasapuram Lok Sabha seat, while P Manikyala Rao and Akula Satyanarayana won Tadepalligudem and Rajamahendravaram City Assembly seats. The Kapu-heartland of Narasapuram Lok Sabha seat consisting of seven Assembly constituencies will be the testing ground for the recently forged BJP-TDP-JSP alliance in the upcoming polls. Elaborate arrangements are being made at Vemagiri in Rajamahendravaram for Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit on May 6. TDP supremo N Chandrababu and Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan would share the dais with him. TDP founder NTRs daughter D Purandeswari is testing her luck in Rajamahendravaram Lok Sabha constituency. She is facing a tough fight from YSRC candidate Dr Guduri Srinivas and Congress nominee Gidugu Rudraraju. TDP former MLA Nallamilli Ramakrishna Reddy switched loyalty to the BJP and is contesting from Anaparthi Assembly seat. Purandeswari has already toured her constituency twice. She met TDP and JSP leaders in all Assembly segments and has been addressing rallies. Women voters are attending her meetings in Rajanagaram, Gopalapuram, Kovvur and Nidadavolu Assembly segments. She has concentrated on Anaparthi, which is considered a YSRC bastion and made a whirlwind tour. She met all the community leaders in the villages. However, Rudraraju is penetrating into rural areas and touching the Congress traditional vote bank. The YSRC is worrying about the Congress upsurge. Winning is not new to the BJP in Godavari districts. The saffron party registered an impressive victory in 1998 and 1999 Lok Sabha polls in Rajamahendravaram, and 1999 and 2014 in Narasapuram. A large section of the middle class and upper class voters constitute a major share of the electorate in the Godavari belt. The voters expect a change in every election. They dont bother whether Muslim reservations would be continued or not if they voted for the BJP, a Common Civil Code will be introduced or not. The Godavari voters get carried away by the swings and make a beeline to polling stations and vote for one party and give an impressive victory. Unlike in Krishna and Guntur districts, Godavari voters are not ambitious but expect a change in every election. They do not bother about the ideologies of the parties. They do not reveal their mind in a straight forward manner. If they are not happy with government policies, they will vent their ire in the elections. The YSRC government may face a backlash for its liquor policy. Now, there is an overwhelming response to BJP candidates Purandeswari in Rajamahendravaram and Srinivas Varma in Narasapuram constituencies. A social activist Somasundaram said that Godavari voters would not choose different parties in Assembly and Lok Sabha polls. If they want to vote for TDP in Assembly, they vote for the same party or those who are in alliance with it in Lok Sabha polls. Though Srinivas Varma is not a popular leader, his winning chances are increasing steadily, he felt. The YSRC has fielded Guduri Umabala, a BC, who is facing a tough time from the BJP. Upper-class Kapu voters and middle-class and some BC communities and one section of Dalit voters in Achanta, Tadepalligudem, Bhimavaram, Narasapuram, Tanuku, Undi, and Palakollu constituencies may vote in favour of the BJP. The ruling YSRC will now look to consolidate the gains that it made in the 2019 elections when it made inroads into the strongholds of the TDP in Godavari districts. It is not a cakewalk to the YSRC in Rajamahendravaram and Narasapuram, as the mood of the Godavari belt is changing slowly. However, the experiment made by YSRC has yielded good results in the 2019 elections in Rajamahendravaram. The YSRC has taken a daring step by fielding BC candidates in Narasapuram and Rajamahendravaram Lok Sabha constituencies, expecting consolidation of BC voters and the traditional vote bank in its favour. But the ground reality seems to be entirely different. Saffron party registered victory in 1998, 1999 LS polls Winning is not new to the BJP in Godavari districts. The saffron party registered an impressive victory in 1998 and 1999 Lok Sabha polls in Rajamahendravaram, and 1999 and 2014 in Narasapuram. A large section of the middle class and upper class voters constitute a major share of the electorate in the Godavari belt. The voters expect a change in every election. They dont bother whether Muslim reservations would be continued or not if they voted for the BJP, a Common Civil Code will be introduced or not

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 ***

Ensure smooth conduct of polls: CEO Mukesh Kumar Meena

VISAKHAPATNAM: Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Mukesh Kumar Meena urged the district officials to ensure the smooth conduct of elections through coordinated efforts and efficient discharge of duties. During his visit to Visakhapatnam on Saturday, the CEO directed the officials to take strong measures to ensure peaceful conduct of elections. Meena began his one-day tour by inspecting the strong rooms and material distribution centres at Andhra University Engineering College. He closely observed the commissioning process of electronic voting machines (EVMs) along with District Collector A Mallikarjuna, Joint Collector K Mayur Ashok, and ADC KS Viswanathan. The CEO enquired about the performance of the ballot unit, control unit, and VVPAT, as well as the training provided to polling officers (POs) and assistant polling officers (APOs) on EVM usage. He scrutinised the process of uploading names and symbols, emphasising the importance of meticulous examination. He visited the Postal Ballot Facilitation Centre, where he advised the district officials to take concrete steps to enable employees to vote.

Rahul Gandhi has no fire but Cong playing with fire by attempting Hindu-Muslim divide:Rajnath

Rahul Gandhi has no fire but Cong playing with fire by attempting Hindu-Muslim divide:Rajnath Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has no fire while his party is playing with fire by attempting to create Hindu-Muslim divide for electoral dividends, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has said. In an interview to PTI, Singh also indicated that the BJP will implement its big-ticket plans like rolling out of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and implementing the 'One Nation One Election' push if it retains power for the third consecutive term. The defence minister also said that he was confident that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will cross 400 seats and the BJP will get over 370 as these projections were made after detailed assessment of the ground situation and not made only for public consumption. On the overall political landscape, the defence minister accused the Congress of attempting to disturb social harmony and trying to create tensions on religious lines. ''They are attempting to create Hindu-Muslim divide for electoral gains. The Congress is trying to create tensions on religious lines,'' he alleged. ''The Congress wants to disturb social harmony. They look at the Muslim community only as a vote bank. I have a suggestion for them -- politics should not be done only for forming governments. The aim of politics should be for nation building,'' he said. ''Rahul Gandhi has no fire but Congress is playing with fire,'' he said. Singh said people of the country will repose their faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP's tally will improve significantly based on the performance of the government in the last five years. ''Our seats will increase in Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal and we will get some seats in Tamil Nadu. Our account will open in Kerala as well. We are winning a good number of seats in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana,'' the senior BJP leader said. ''We will increase our tally in Odisha, Jharkhand and Assam. We are sweeping Chhattisgarh,'' he said, asserting that the BJP will cross the 370-mark. Asked whether the BJP's seats in Maharashtra will come down, he did not give a direct reply but said there may be some adjustments here and there. The BJP leader also came down hard on the Congress for its plan to ''redistribute'' wealth, saying it will have disastrous consequences for the country's economy. ''The concept of redistribution of wealth will trigger recession. Argentina and Venezuela implemented it and faced disastrous consequences. The investors will lose confidence in India,'' Singh said. On the BJP's big-ticket plans like implementation of the UCC and 'One Nation One Poll' push in if it retains power, Singh said it fulfils promises that it makes to the people of India. In its manifesto, the BJP pledged to implement the UCC if it returns to power after the general elections. It also mentioned that the party will move forward with a resolve to realise the idea of 'One Nation, One Election'. ''We always fulfil our commitments. We will never allow any question mark on our credibility and will not compromise on the country's unity and integrity. We implement whatever we say in our manifesto. We have to do whatever we say,'' Singh said. ''We will go for 'One Nation One Election. We will take views of every quarter, including all political parties on it,'' he said. On the UCC, the defence minister said even the Constitution-makers felt a need for it, as it is mentioned in the directive principles. ''The Congress wants to create fear psychosis; they want to use the Hindu-Muslim card,'' he said. ''They do not have any issue. They want to form a government by dividing the society in the name of caste, creed and religion and they have always done it,'' he alleged.

Andhra Pradesh: Bapatla constable set to shine on international athletics arena

GUNTUR: Meet CH Nagaraju, a 40-year-old head constable currently serving in Bapatla district. Beyond his duties in law enforcement, Nagarajus passion for athletics has propelled him to remarkable heights, with over 30 medals earned in various state and national-level championships. His outstanding performance at the Fifth National Master Athletics Championship held at Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad from February 8 to 11, 2024, earned him a gold medal in pole vault and a silver medal in shot put in the 40-plus category. Impressed by his prowess, selectors handpicked Nagaraju to represent India in the upcoming International Master Athletic Championship set to take place at Sydney in Australia this August. This prestigious event, held under the auspices of World Masters Athletics, draws competitors from across the globe. Hailing from Inkollu, Nagarajus journey in athletics began early in life, though financial constraints initially hindered his pursuit of pole vaulting. Undeterred, the community rallied behind him, pooling resources to support his passion. At 19, Nagaraju joined the police department, where he served in special forces until 2009 before transitioning to various police stations, presently stationed at Chirala Special Branch. Nagarajus dedication to fitness has made him a role model within the police force, inspiring younger officers to prioritise physical well-being. Supported by his superiors, he continues to excel in state and national-level competitions, earning accolades for his commitment both on and off duty. SP Vakul Jindal commended Nagarajus unwavering dedication to athletics, highlighting his recent achievements as a testament to his hard work and determination. Nagaraju, fuelled by his recent success, sets his sights on international competition, eager to represent his country on a global stage. Speaking of his family, he credits his wife, also a police officer, for her support in maintaining his health and fitness regimen. Despite demanding schedules, he adheres to a strict training regimen and diet, prioritising his athletic pursuits. With his selection for the International Master Athletics Championship, Nagarajus lifelong dream of representing his country inches closer to reality. Buoyed by the support of colleagues and Bapatla SP Vakul Jindal, Nagaraju remains confident in his ability to make his nation proud on the international stage.

After willing house to rickshaw puller, Cuttack woman to fight polls for poor

CUTTACK: With enthusiasm writ large on her face, Cuttacks Minati Patnaik is all set to begin a new chapter in her life. This time, as a politician. The 64-year-old resident of Sutahat, who had come to limelight in 2021 for donating her house and jewellery - worth over Rs 1 crore - to a rickshaw puller, on Friday filed her nomination for contesting as Samruddha Odisha candidate for Cuttack Parliamentary constituency. She is gearing up to start her campaign across all the Assembly segments on Sunday. Loneliness, she said, prompted her to contribute to society and think of politics as a medium to do so. In 2020, she lost her husband to kidney failure and a few months later in 2021, her only daughter succumbed to cardiac arrest. With no other family member by her side, it was Budha Samal - who had been taking her around Cuttack in his rickshaw since 1994 - and his wife and three children who took care of the elderly woman. Budha and his family are the reason I am living happily today. They were my support system when I lost everything. I legally donated my house and jewellery as a little gift for their service towards my family, she said. After her noble initiative made headlines, many more people from poor socioeconomic backgrounds from across Cuttack district approached Minati for help in cash and kind. And, the latter obliged every time. This kept her engaged. But to reach out to a bigger audience, she needed political representation and this is when she decided to approach BJP ahead of the twin elections. However, as she could not connect to anyone in the saffron party to seek a ticket, Minati decided to enter the poll fray as an Independent contender. Recently, though, members of Samruddha Odisha approached her with a ticket from Cuttack and she agreed. The party was floated by Jatish Chandra Mohanty, a 1979-batch Odia IAS officer of Andhra Pradesh cadre, who quit bureaucracy to enter politics. Minati now wants to contribute to fulfil Mohantys dream, at least in Cuttack district. Pitted against heavyweights like BJPs Bhartruhari Mahtab and BJDs Santrupt Misra, she wants to give this political opportunity her best. Her campaign strategy, she said, includes reaching out to every family at the grassroots in all the seven Assembly segments and collecting peoples grievances. Her main poll planks are migration, employment and livelihood issues. I will use all my might and my remaining resources to meet every family under the constituency before the elections. If I win, I will ensure all their grievances pertaining to land and employment are resolved on priority basis, she said. Although a political greenhorn, Minati claimed she is not unaware of Odisha politics. I have wanted to be a part of state politics since my college days to help people who were never mapped to any of the governments schemes. But that dream could never take off because of my marriage and family responsibilities, said Minati, happy with finally receiving the opportunity in her 60s. Budha and his sons, on the other hand, have decided to stand by her during the campaign.

Andhra's Araku coffee shop makes students earn while learn - The New Indian Express

Andhra's Araku coffee shop makes students earn while learn The New Indian Express

How Harsha never gave up the dream to become GM

HYDERABAD: Till 2017, there were no grandmasters in Telangana. By the end of 2018, the state had three! Arjun Erigaisi, Harsha Bharathakoti and Karthik Venkatraman had become GMs during that year in that order. For Bharathakoti, the joy was double, as that was the year when he became eligible to vote as well. It was not exactly my life goal, but it was a target I was really hoping to achieve in my chess career, the 24-year-old told TNIE over the phone from Missouri, US, where he is now pursuing both chess and higher studies. However, things were a rollercoaster for the Telangana chess prodigy a decade ago. When I was 14 years old, I was doing very well, and then suddenly my game stagnated for almost three years. It was as if I did not know what was going wrong, Bharathakoti recollected, adding, But I did not give up and kept working and went on to become an International Master (IM) at the age of 17. Rewind ten years. It was at the age of seven when Bharathakoti, originally from Guntur district in Andhra Pradesh, was introduced to the game of 64 squares by his uncle, NVS Ramaraju. A renowned coach in the chess circles of Hyderabad, Ramaraju also holds the distinction of having trained Erigaisi as well as grandmaster Dronavalli Harika. I started playing chess when I was 7 years old. Ramaraju sir has been my coach since the beginning of my chess career. I got introduced to chess by him, and I was just so interested in it, Bharathakoti said. For Ramaraju, his disciple achieved good standards in the first couple of years. He came third in the U-12 nationals, after which he qualified for the Slovenian World Youth Games (U-12). In that tournament, he was unbeatable up to the seventh round but lost in the eighth, the coach, who has run RACE Academy in Madhapur for over two decades now, told TNIE. Bharatkoti then went on to win nationals in the U-15 and U-19 categories and achieved second place in the Asian continental tourney. He has also lifted the Hoogeveen Open in the Netherlands and stood second in Spains Sants Open. With a FIDE rating of 2569, he currently stands in the 294th spot globally and 24th in India. Im fortunate to have parents who supported me throughout the journey to GM and my uncle Ramaraju; without them, it wouldnt have been possible. We were financially very unstable, but because of my parents and coach, I was able to become GM, a nostalgic Bharathakoti reminisces. Both his parents play chess, even though his father, B Uday Chander, used to accompany him to tournaments until he achieved the coveted GM title. Only his uncle Ramaraju plays. He would also decide tournaments for him to participate in. So, without Ramaraju, there would not have been any Harsha. All credits go to him only. He is like a godfather to him, asserted Bharathakotis old man while speaking to TNIE. For him, the only way to provide comfort to his son if he suffers a setback in the game is to treat him to good food. I dont scold him or give advice about the game, as I do not know much about it, nor does his mother (B Saradha). He likes chicken biryani, so I get him that. Now pursuing a bachelors in psychology from Webster University in Saint Louis, Bharathakoti was hooked on the Candidates event which Indian teenage chess prodigy D Gukesh won all while attending his classes. I feel this was the best Candidates I have ever seen. It was very exciting, and many upsets took place. Though I didnt have any particular expectations, I was completely surprised by Gukeshs playing style. His game was so mature and calm, and thats what made him win the event, Bharathakoti summarised. Bharathakoti is now gearing up for the Sahibkiran Amir Temur Cup in Uzbekistan, to be held later this month. I want to reach 2600 this year, and ultimately, around 2670 is my goal at the end of this year. To improve my game, I am working with other students at my university. For Ramaraju, his students strength is his ability to analyse the game deeply. His opening and middlegames are good, but he can work more on his endgame. Bharathakoti, who is inspired by former world chess champion Magnus Carlsen, wants the state government to provide scholarships and organise rated chess tournaments so that many people can play in the state itself. Private MNCs should come ahead along with the government, suggests his father.

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

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.

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

Cops filing fake surrenders: Naxal - The Times of India

Cops filing fake surrenders: Naxal 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.

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

Punters make elections a high-stakes play in Andhra Pradesh - The Hindu

Punters make elections a high-stakes play in Andhra Pradesh The Hindu

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

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.

Vijayawada SEB nabs three with Methamphetamine on Vijayawada-Guntur highway

Vijayawada: The Special Enforcement Bureau (SEB) of Vijayawada scored a significant victory in their fight against drug trafficking, arresting three individuals in possession of a substantial amount of methamphetamine. Acting on a tip-off, SEB officials strategically positioned themselves near the D-Mart store on the service road leading from Guntur to Vijayawada, on National Highway 16. This vigilance paid off as they successfully intercepted the three suspects on Friday evening. The apprehended individuals, belonging to Guntur and Krishna districts, were found carrying 88 grams of methamphetamine, commonly known as Meth. The street value of this seized narcotic substance is estimated to be around Rs 5,28,000. Additionally, three mobile phones and a two-wheeler were confiscated from their possession. M. Venkateswara Rao, SEB additional commissioner, Guntur, confirmed the arrests and revealed that the investigation is ongoing. He anticipates further arrests as they delve deeper into the case. The seized Methamphetamine is suspected to have been purchased in Bengaluru and was likely intended for sale along the Vijayawada-Guntur highway. This apprehension highlights the intensified efforts of the Andhra Pradesh Police in curbing the circulation of illicit drugs, particularly in the lead-up to the upcoming 2024 Assembly and Lok Sabha elections. The SEB's proactive approach demonstrates their commitment to ensuring public safety by dismantling drug trafficking networks within the state.

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

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.

Nandyal Records 46C, Emerges India's Hottest for Third Straight Day

Visakhapatnam: Nandyal registered a temperature of 46 degrees Celsius on Saturday and became the hottest place in India for the third consecutive day while five cities reeled under heat wave in the day. Intense heat conditions prevailed in parts of Rayalaseema districts and few parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh in the state with maximum temperatures recording in the range of 42-46 degree Celsius. The mercury on Saturday settled at 45.9C at Kurnool, 45.4C in YSR Kadapa, 44.8C at Jangamaheswarapuram, 44.7C at Anantapur and 44.1C at Tirupati. The IMD-Amaravati said the ongoing heat wave spell in the state will continue until May 5 and abate thereafter. Andhra Pradesh witnessed two spells of heat waves in April. S Karuna Sagar, scientist at IMD-Amaravati said Anantapur, Kurnool, Nandyal, Kadapa and Arogyavaram experienced heat wave conditions on Saturday while the other parts of the state experienced hot and humid weather conditions. The scientist said the state would have a respite from heat waves from May 6 onwards and receive heavy rain at isolated places over CAP and Rayalaseema on May 7.

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

GST Fraud: 5 Officials Arrested in Connection

Hyderabad: The detective department (DD) from the city Central Crime Station (CCS) on Saturday arrested five GST officials including a woman in connection with a case registered related to alleged refund fraud. CCS DCP N. Swetha identified the officials as Peetala Swarna Kumar, deputy commissioner, Nalgonda division; assistant commissioners, state taxes, Kelam Venu Gopal (Abids Circle) and Podila Viswa Kiran (Madhapur-1), Vemavarapu Venkata Ramana, deputy state tax officer, Madhapur-2; Marri Mahitha, senior assistant, Madhapur-3. The police had earlier arrested Chiraag Sharma, tax consultant of New Delhi; Vemireddy Raja Ramesh Reddy and Mummagari Giridhar Reddy alias Giri, of Kadapa; and Kondragunta Vineel Chowdary, of Palnadu district in Andhra Pradesh, the DCP said. Police said the accused had claimed that they had started electric bike manufacturing units under the names of various firm, by collecting electricity bills from the premises owners in the twin cities. They got the fake firms registered in the GST portal by submitting fabricated rental agreements, Swetha, said. The accused during interrogation revealed that they conspired with 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 then claimed refunds, Swetha said.