Jagan Says TD-BJP Alliance Will Hurt Muslims

Kurnool/Anantapur : Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has said that N. Chandrababu Naidus alliance with the BJP would distance the Telugu Desam from Muslims. Chandrababu Naidu is with the BJP, which wants to remove 4 per cent Muslim reservation. At the same time, he comes up with a new drama to seek minority votes. Like a chameleon, Babu changes colour. The reservation for Muslim reservations will remain, and the YSRC stands by it, he said. The 4 per cent reservation for Muslims is not given based on religion. The reservation does not list the higher castes in the Muslim community like Pathan or Syeds. This reservation is for the backwards among the Muslims. People have to note that every religion has a BC, an OC category. It is unacceptable and morally wrong to view minorities through a discriminatory lens. These reservations will prevail at all costs, the Chief Minister asserted. Whether it is Muslim reservation, NRC, CAA, or any other sentiments of minorities, the YSRC would always stand as a steadfast pillar, supporting their dignity and honour. Schemes like Shadi Thofa (marriage assistance), declaring Urdu as a second language, the 4 per cent political reservation for minorities are there, and a minority MLA serves as the deputy chief minister in the YSRC government, he stated. I have appointed a minority leader as the vice president of the legislative council. Out of the 175 seats, 4 per cent of the seats were given to minorities as political reservations. Can Chandrababu ever say that he did any good for the minority community in his life, asked Jagan Mohan Reddy. The Chief Minister addressed YSRCs election meetings in Kalyandurg and Rajampet. In Kalyandurg, he said, Chandrababu did not bring any scheme to a poor person in his whole life. Every time he got power, the poor did not gain. Chandrababu simply looted the state wealth and shared the loot. During elections, he utilises this money to pay Rs.2,000 to Rs.4,000 per person and buys votes. I urge the people not to reject Chandrababu's cash handouts! Because that money belongs to us! However, when you vote, vote for the party that did good to you. Addressing the people in Rajampet, Jagan Mohan Reddy said, The people of AP were expecting the announcement of special category status for the state at the public meetings of the NDA. But only disappointment prevailed among those awaiting the news. The alliance leaders are silent on the state's requirements. Amit Shah visited AP for the election campaign with TD and the JSPthe three-party alliance with a feudal mindset cannot tolerate the fact that English medium is introduced to government schools. They want English for their children but not for the poor, the CM said.

Andhra Pradesh farmers harvest carbon credits through agricultural practices | ABP News

Farmers in the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh have embarked on a path of innovation, harnessing the power of carbon credits to revolutionise their agricultural practices. Under the guidance of Rabo Bank and the AF Ecology Centre,

Dr Shemushi Appointed Anantapur DIG

Following Election Commissions directive, Dr. Shemushi has been appointed as DIG of the Anantapur range on Wednesday. The 2008 batch IPS officer comes in as the DIG after the Election Commission transferred DIG Ammi Reddy on Monday following complaints by TD and its allied parties. They accused Ammi Reddy of being partisan and supportive of YSRC. In support of their charge, the opposition parties mentioned the recent instances in Tirupati district. Dr Shemushi is expected to take charge on Thursday.

Andhra Pradesh: Educationists in poll fray

Muttamsetti Srinivasa Rao, YSRC The sitting YSRC MLA, who is popular as Avanthi Srinivas, is the founder of Avanthi Educational Society, which runs several educational institutions, including Avanthi Degree & PG College and Avanthi Institute of Engineering & Technology. He is contesting from Bheemili against his mentor Ganta Srinivasa Rao of TDP. Ponguru Narayana, TDP The former MLC is the founder of Narayana Group of Educational Institutions. He unsuccessfully contested from Nellore City Assembly constituency on TDP ticket in the last election against P Anil Kumar Yadav of YSRC. He is contesting again from the same constituency against Mohammad Khaleel Ahmed of YSRC. Mathukumilli Sribharat, TDP The president of GITAM (Deemed to be University) and the founder of Kautilya School of Public Policy is contesting from Visakhapatnam Lok Sabha constituency. In the last election, the TDP nominee suffered defeat by a narrow margin. Now, Botcha Jhansi of YSRC is his rival in the election. Mathukumilli Sribharat Palle Sindhura Reddy, TDP She is the treasurer of PVKK Educational Institutions in Anantapur district, while her husband Palle Venkata Krishna Kishore Reddy is its chairman. Daughter-in-law of Palle Raghunatha Reddy, she is in the election fray from Putthaparthi against D Sreedhar Reddy of YSRC Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu, TDP The sitting Narasaraopet MP is the vice-chairman of Vignan Group of Institutions. He quit the YSRC and joined the TDP after being denied ticket for the same Lok Sabha segment. For the second time, he is contesting from Narasaraopet Lok Sabha constituency on TDP ticket against P Anil Kumar Yadav of YSRC Annabathuni Siva Kumar, YSRC The sitting YSRC MLA is the chairman of ASN Educational Institutions, which runs ASN Degree & PG College, ASN Womens Engineering College and ASN Pharmacy College. For the second consecutive time, he is contesting from Tenali Assembly constituency against JSP Political Affairs Committee chairperson Nadendla Manohar Annabathuni Siva Kumar

CM Jagan to do election campaign in 3 places today

VIJAYAWADA : Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy took a break on Wednesday from the election campaign and reviewed the partys electoral possibilities with core leaders about YSRC election campaigns. The CM would resume the election campaign on Thursday by addressing public meetings in three places - Kurnool city, Kalyanadurgam and Rajampet. YSRC general secretary Thalasila Raghuram said Jagan Mohan Reddy would conduct election campaigns in three constituencies on May 9. At 10 am, Jagan Mohan Reddy will participate in the election campaign at SV Complex Road, YSR Circle, Kurnool City under Kurnool LS constituency. Later, at 12.30 pm, he will participate in a meeting at Kalyanadurgam constituency, Kollapuramma Temple Road, in Anantapur LS constituency. Later, at 3 pm, Jagan Mohan Reddy will participate in the election meeting held at Koduru Road in Rajampet constituency under Rajampet LS. According to sources, Jagan Mohan Reddy reviewed the present political situation and the partys prospects in Assembly and LS constituencies across the state. Cautioning the leaders that only three days were left for the election campaign, he asked the partys rank and file, including coordinators, to intensify the campaign by mingling more with the masses. Regarding the YSRCs Navaratnalu Plus manifesto, the CM said only the YSRC is daringly distributing party manifesto by stressing that its government has fulfilled 99 per cent of the promises of the 2019 and more is promised under the new Navaratnalu manifesto. On Chandrababu Naidus conspiracy to stop the welfare schemes and hinder the volunteer services, Jagan Mohan Reddy said the Opposition can stop the state governments welfare schemes but not the YSRCs success in the elections. Addressing a public meeting in Ichchapuram town of Srikakulam district on Wednesday, Jagan Mohan Reddy said that, after coming to power, the YSRC government would set up a tribal university in Salur town of Parvathipuram Manyam district. He said that the cellphone connectivity is being expanded to more tribal areas in the region. Explaining the initiatives of his government, Jagan Mohan Reddy said, We deposited a whopping `2.70 lakh crore into the bank accounts of the beneficiaries without any corruption or discrimination during the last five years. We provided 2.31 lakh government jobs during this period, for the first time in the history of the state and this should be explained to the masses.

AP: Election Commission transfers Chittoor DSP, SI ahead of polls

Tirupati: Election Commission (EC) on Tuesday ordered transfer of Maheshwar Reddy, deputy superintendent of police, Palamaner sub-division; and Maruti, sub-inspector of Sadum, both of Chittoor district. The commission directed the DSP and SI to hand over their responsibilities to lower-level officers immediately. This action of EC has come following the recent attack on B. Ramachandra Yadav, president of the Bharatiya Communist Party (BCI), in Punganur constituency. EC had recently ordered transfers of high-ranking police officials in Andhra Pradesh, including Rajendranath Reddy, Director General of Police (DGP), and R.N. Ammi Reddy, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Anantapur Range. State government has appointed Harish Kumar Gupta as the new DGP following these transfers. Political analysts, who are closely monitoring the developments, anticipate more transfers in connection with the attack on the BCY party chief.

Balakrishna Faces Tough Fight in Hindupur

Anantapur : Hindupur assembly constituency is the long-held fortress of the Telugu Desam. Film star Nandamuri Balakrishna of the TD is trying for a hattrick victory in the present polls there, but his going is getting tough in many areas. While Muslim voters and BCs are the deciding factors in Hindupur, the YSRC is focusing attention on these sections. Balakrishna, on his part, is campaigning even in streets and small villages in the segment to outwit the YSRC. Along with Balakrishna, his wife Vasundhara and daughter are campaigning in the assembly segment. Even the Congress, apart from the YSRC, had tried seriously to break the stronghold of the TD in Hindupur, where party founder NT Rama Rao won the seat thrice and his elder son Nandamuri Harikrishna once. At present, Nandamuri Balakrishna is the MLA for the second term from the constituency. He is in the race for a third time. As Hindupur remained a strong base for the TD, every experiment made by the Congress and the YSRC failed in all the elections since 1985. NT Rama Rao chose this segment for his first electoral fight and he won the seat thrice, became chief minister twice and he functioned as leader of opposition too from the Hindupur seat. People continued to support the Telugu Desam and NTRs sons - Nandamuri Hari Krishna and Nandamuri Balakrishna and some other TD candidates won from Hindupur in successive polls. The Congress had tried to grab Hindupur by fielding JC Prabhakar Reddy against NT Rama Rao, but NTR had the last laugh. The YSRC did an experiment by fielding former IG Md Iqbal against Nandamuri Balakrishna in the hope that minority votes would be the deciding factor in the 2019 general polls. But Balakrishna had a cake walk for the second time. Interestingly, Md Iqbal later quit the YSRC even though he was, alternatively, given an opportunity to be an MLC. YSRC Rayalaseema regional coordinator and minister Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy, who was given the responsibility of Anantapur district, has introduced K Deepika, a BC candidate and a new face, as the party incharge a few months ago and the party later announced her candidature. Ramachandra Reddy toured Hindupur assembly segment along with the partys assembly candidate Deepika, and met voters at every gram panchayat a month ago. He was trying to garner support from BCs and Muslims. He said the people of Hindupur are with the YSRC due to the rolling out of welfare programmes by Jagan Mohan Reddy during the last five years. The presence of an independent candidate from the Muslim community might have a negative impact on Balayya, who depended on their votes during the previous polls. YSRC sources say only rural parts were favourable for the TD in the past few polls, but a majority of the people of Hindupur town favoured Jagan Reddy.

Gajamala Trend Catching Up To Felicitate Candidates

Anantapur: Unlike the previous elections, this time, Gajamala felicitation has become a new trend among major political parties. This is evident at events to honour candidates at every village. Along with the Gajamala (huge garlands), showering of flowers and drumbeats are also seen at every campaign meeting of the candidates in the villages. Previously there were only small garlands as a present to the candidate during each event in the villages. Gajamala was being offered to only the top leaders like party president, youth leaders, during their visits. Despite the heavy expenses, party leaders in the villages and even urban wards are felicitating their candidate with Gajamala during the present election campaigns. They also arrange a crane at every event to lift the huge Gajamala and place it around the candidates neck. A party leader from Atmakur in Rapthadu assembly segment observed, For Gajamala felicitation alone, one has to spend a minimum of Rs 20,000, which is for the garland and the crane. Special effects like keelu gurralu are also employed in the campaign. Further, flowers worth at least `8,000 are arranged to shower and honour the candidate at each campaign. The trend was introduced a year ago to felicitate chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, TD leader Chandrababu Naidu, Nara Lokesh and such top leaders during their special tours and yatras. The concept spread to rural areas and urban wards during the present campaign in Rayalaseema region.

Badvel Police Book Case Against Sharmila Over Viveka Case

Anantapur: Badvel police have registered a case against APCC president and Kadapa Lok Sabha Congress candidate Y.S. Sharmila for violating the court orders against commenting on former MP Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy murder case during the elections campaign, as the matter is sub-judice. The case has been booked against Sharmila based on her comments during her campaign on May 2. Nodal officer and municipal commissioner of Badvel in Kadapa district had filed the complaint against the APCC president. Kadapa Sessions Court had issued orders asking contestants or campaigners not to speak anything about the Vivekananda Reddy murder case as the court is hearing the matter. YSRC leaders had moved the sessions court in this regard a few days ago. The court directed APCC chief Sharmila, TD president N. Chandrababu Naidu, BJP state unit president D. Purandeswari, Pulivendula TD candidate B. Tech Ravi and several others not to talk about the case during their campaign as the court is hearing the case. However, as per reports in media, political leaders are continuing to mention the case as well as the names of Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, Kadapa YSRC candidate Y.S. Avinash Reddy and several YSRC leaders in the case. Badvel nodal officer has so far lodged a complaint against Sharmila over her violation of court orders. Police registered case under IPC Section 188 against her. TD chief Chandrababu Naidu has continued to blame Jagan Mohan Reddy and Avinash Reddy during his public meetings and road shows. On Tuesday, Sharmila, continued her attack, blaming a Rs 40 crore deal for the murder of Vivekananda Reddy. She says Avinash Reddy is silent about the case, when all evidence has been wiped out after the murder.

Rains Lash AP, Lightning Kills 3

Visakhapatnam: Moderate to heavy rains accompanied by thunder and lightning struck parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema districts in Andhra Pradesh during the last 24 hours claiming three lives. However, the rains provided the much-needed reprieve from the searing heat wave that had engulfed the state since the last two weeks. Nandyal, Kurnool, Kadapa and Anantapur recorded average temperature of 42 degrees Celsius. A 41-year-old Parasa Rama Rao died on the spot when lightning struck him at Yadavalli village under Lingapalem mandal in Eluru district. Rama Rao was grazing cattle near a field when the incident took place. In another incident, lightning killed a woman Bondala Nagendramma (52) and her 25 year old daughter Y Nagarani when they were returning from a farm field at Vutukuru under Krosuru mandal of Palnadu district. A trough running from east Vidarbha to south Tamil Nadu brought rains and thunderstorms in the state on Tuesday. The system is set to bring more rains on Wednesday Normal life was thrown out of gear and more than six places reported mild water logging, with trees and power poles uprooted at few localities as heavy rain accompanied with gusty winds lashed at Rajahmundry town in East Godavari district on Tuesday. An unexpected hailstorm brought cheers to the people in a few villages under Chintapalli and Paderu mandals in ASR district. Though the rains have brought down the mercury levels by 2 to 6 degree Celsius on Tuesday, the summer rain caused damage to chili, maize, and mango crops in parts of the state. The IMD said Vemagiri in Rajahmundry recorded 12.4 cm rain, Palasa (Srikakulam district) and Palamaner (Chittoor district) recorded 6 cm rainfall each between Monday night and Tuesday morning, followed by 5 cm each in Tekkali (Srikakulam), Atmakur (Nandyal) and 4 cm in Arogyavaram (Annamayya). Parvathipuram (Manyam), Madanapalle (Annamayya), Atlur (Kadapa) and some places in the state recorded rainfall between 1 cm and 3 cm. The IMD has predicted moderate rainfall and thundershowers at few places across the state on May 8 (Wednesday) which include Chittoor, Annamayya and Tirupati districts of Rayalaseema region and Nellore. ASR and Srikakulam district of CAP will receive heavy rainfall.

ECI appoints Harish Kumar Gupta as Andhra Pradesh police chief

VIJAYAWADA: A day after Director General of Police (DGP) Kasireddy Rajendranath Reddy was transferred, the Election Commission of India (ECI) appointed the 1992 batch IPS officer Harish Kumar Gupta as the new State police chief on Monday. In an official communication to Chief Secretary KS Jawahar Reddy, the poll panel directed the new DGP to take charge immediately and send a compliance report to the ECI. The Commission has acceded to the posting of Harish Kumar Gupta as DGP of Andhra Pradesh. The officer will take charge immediately and a compliance report will be submitted to the Commission, the letter to the Chief Secretary read. Acting on the instructions of the ECI, Jawahar Reddy had sent a panel of three IPS officers - APSRTC MD Ch Dwaraka Tirumala Rao, Madireddy Pratap and Principal secretary Harish Kumar Gupta on Monday. After reviewing the recommendations, the election commission selected Harish Kumar Gupta as the DGP. Later in the day, Gupta assumed office and took charge from ADGP (Law and Order) Shankha Bratha Bagchi. Meanwhile, the Election Commission issued orders to transfer Anantapur range deputy inspector general of police (DIG) RN Ammi Reddy and instructed the Chief Secretary not to allot him any election-related duties.

Heatwave conditions likely in 21 mandals of Andhra Pradesh

VIJAYAWADA : As many as 21 mandals in the State are likely to experience heatwave on Tuesday and chances of mercury levels dropping in the next couple of days are high. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday forecasted a hot, humid, and discomfort weather likely in isolated places across the State on Tuesday. The Met Department predicted thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of speeds 40-50 kmph are likely at isolated places across the State for the same period. On Monday, AP experienced hot and humid conditions with daytime temperatures above 40 degrees C at most places. APSDMA on Monday stated that 12 mandals experienced severe heatwave, and 112 mandals reported heatwave. Banaganapalle in the Nandyal and Manga Nellore in the Tirupati have recorded the highest daytime temperature of 45.5 degrees C, followed by Panchalingala in the Kurnool, Vallur in the YSR at 45.1 degrees C, Tarlapadu in Prakasam district at 44.9 degrees C, Ravipadu n Palnadu district at 44.6 degrees C, Gonupalle in Nellore district at 44.4 degrees C, Tarimella of Anantapur district at 44.3 degrees Celsius.

Poll panel transfers Anantapur range DIG

Election Commission told the Bombay High Court on Tuesday that it would derecognise those political parties which use children in election campaign or poll-related work. (Photo: PTI/File) Election Commission told the Bombay High Court on Tuesday that it would derecognise those political parties which use children in election campaign or poll-related work. (Photo: PTI/File) Anantapur: In the ongoing shifting of top-level officials, the Election Commission on Monday transferred Anantapur range DIG Ammi Reddy and directed the authorities to keep him away from election-related duties. This is the fourth top-level official from Anantapur to be transferred in recent weeks following complaints from the TD and its allies, which accused them of favouring the YSRC in the electoral process. In the first shifting process, collector Gowthami was transferred from Anantapur and posted as JEO of Tirumala after a complaint to EC from the TD and its allies. These parties alleged that a huge number of bogus voters have been enrolled in Uravakonda and other parts of the district. Gowthami got posted as JEO to Tirumala. Vinod Kumar was posted to Anantapur as the collector. Similarly, KKN Anburajan, former SP of Anantapur, was also transferred following complaints by the opposition parties. Anburajan had worked earlier as SP of Kadapa and as ASP of Pulivendula and hence the TD targeted him. He was transferred a few weeks ago. On Sunday, Anantapur urban DSP Veera Raghava Reddy was transferred from Anantapur over his suspected support to the YSRC. Raghava Reddy, who earlier worked as DSP of Anantapur, had also worked in loop line post and again got posting to Anantapur subdivision. The TD targeted him by blaming one-sided support to YSRC. Prathap Kumar was posted as SDPO of Anantapur on Monday. On Monday, Anantapur range DIG Ammi Reddy who was in charge of Anantapur, Satyasai, Tirupati and Chittoor districts received transfer orders as EC directed the concerned department to choose three names for the post.

Cops Thrash Each Other at Pilligundla Check Post

Anantapur: Two constables posted at the border check post in Pilligundla of Rolla mandal in Satya Sai district attacked each other over delay in joining duty on Sunday evening. A video of the two thrashing each other went viral on social media. Sources said district administration set up additional check posts to control flow of illicit liquor, cash and other valuables by political parties. One of the constables on duty at the check post reported late in the evening on Sunday. This angered the constable who had to be relieved by the other constable. Soon, the constables Narayana Swamy and K. Shiva got into an argument and started hitting each other on the main road of Pilligundla village. A villager captured the entire quarrel and fighting on his smartphone. The video went viral on Monday. Satya Sai district police authorities have ordered a probe into the issue, as it has tarnished the image of police.

Campaigning in Heatwave a challenge for AP Leaders

Anantapur: Heat waves are impacting party leaders and cadres on day-long election campaign in the region. Singanamala TD candidate Bandaru Shravani fell sick due to sun stroke while she was on a campaign trip on Sunday. Bandaru Shravani was advised to take rest and to stay away from sunlight as mercury levels were touching high. The Singanamala assembly segment has been recording maximum temperatures in the district for the past few days. Similarly, YSRC worker Hanumanthappa died of sun stroke while taking part in the road show in Palavenkatapuram village in Kalyandurg segment in the district on Sunday. Hanumanthappa was accompanying the road show of YSRC candidate T Rangaiah in Palo Venkatapuram village and he collapsed while taking part in the road show. Though he was immediately shifted to a nearby hospital, he was declared dead, sources said.

CM Jagan Woos Muslims, Says He Firmly Backs 4 Per Cent Reservations for Them

Vijayawada: Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy as president of the YSR Congress is concentrating his attention on minority votes in 62 assembly constituencies where they are the deciding factor in the present assembly and LS polls in the state. These constituencies, out of the total 175, have the highest and moderate voting percentages supporting 4 per cent Muslim reservations. Jagan Reddy pushed Telugu Desam chief Nara Chandrababu into a quandary by daring the TD chief to raise the Muslim reservation issue in front of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the three-party alliances election meetings in AP. Jagan Reddy said, On one hand, Chandrababu Naidu joined hands with the BJP, which promised to remove the 4 per cent reservation for Muslims. Conversely, in an attempt to secure votes from the minority community, Naidu resorts to a deceitful act of false affection, further betraying Muslims. I boldly assert this today: The 4 per cent reservation for Muslims must remain intact. This is my firm stance! Will Chandrababu dare to voice this in front of Modi? Will he disassociate himself from the NDA? What is the purpose of this alliance, Chandrababu? Why the pretence of affection? Why align with the NDA, which opposes Muslim reservation, while perpetuating such deceit in your gatherings? Jagan Reddy, in a bid to get the support of minorities, further asserted, The 4 per cent reservation given to minority brothers is not given based on religion. These reservations are not applied to upper castes among the Muslims. This 4 per cent reservation is on a backward class basis. Im questioning the BJP and other opposition parties on this. All religions have BCs and OCs, these are reservations given on a backward class basis, subject to the provisions of the Constitution. Is it moral to play politics on such reservations and mess with their lives? He added, We will support minorities on issues like 4 per cent reservation, NRC, CAA, and any such minority-related issue, Minority sentiments will be secured and supported by Jagan and his party. Political analysts say that the bold statement of Jagan Reddy, of the YSRC protecting the minorities, will turn as lethal as the BJPs firmness on the cancellation of Muslim reservations. If the TD supports it, then this would be a big disadvantage to Naidu in the present elections, they aver. They said the YSRC has already started a negative campaign against Naidu and TD, which would be intensified in the next couple of days. This posed a threat to TD and is an advantage to YSRC, as it had allocated 7 assembly seats to minorities out of 175. The Muslim voters are the deciding factor in Kadapa, Kurnool, Rajampeta, Nandyala, Guntur East, Kadiri, Nellore, Srisailam, Hindupur, Proddatur, Pileru, Anantapur, Adoni, Allagadda, Nandikokuru, Madanapalli, Guntakal, Punganur, Vijayawada West, Tadikonda, Chilakaluripet, Panyam, Palamaneru, Banaganapally, Narasaraopeta, Tirupati, Nellore (Rural), Guntur (West), Rajampet, Gurzala, Kodumuru, Ponnur, Sattenapalli, Atmakuru, Emiganuru, Kamalapuram. Giddalur, Penamalur, Pedakurapadu, Pulivendula, Tamballapally, Dhone, Maidukuru, Vijayawada Central, Nandigama, Kovvur, Mangalagiri, Jammalamadugu, Ongole, Machilipatnam, Eluru, Parchur, Visakhapatnam, Penukonda, Rayadurgam, Chandragiri, Dharmavaram, Udayagiri, Rayachoti, Gannavaram and Gudivada assembly segments. The analysts say that the Muslim minorities carry at least 25,000 to one lakh voted in these sixty assembly constituencies. Hence, Jagan Reddy is wooing these minorities to sweep the elections with the help of 4 per cent Muslim reservations in the present elections. Kurnool MLA Hafiz Khan said Jagan Reddy will definitely protect the 4 per cent reservation for Muslims and he will oppose laws like NRC and CAA. Muslims will not allow cancellation of the 4 per cent reservations at any cost and this issue will play an important role in the elections.

Amit Shah Lambasts YSRC Rule in AP

Amit Shah lambasts YSRC rule in AP NAGABHUSHANAM HOSKOTE | DC ANANTAPUR, MAY 5 Union Home Minister Amit Shah came down heavily on the YSRC government on Sunday, saying it was failing to fulfill the needs of the state, including completion of the Polavaram project in the past five years. The TD-JS-BJP alliance was formed to end gundagiri, criminal activities and corruption, and re-establish Amaravati as the capital of Andhra Pradesh, protect the sacredness of Lord Venkateswara and preserve the Telugu language, Amith Shah claimed. While praising the efforts of TD chief Nara Chandrababu Naidu, the home minister observed that Naidu as CM of united AP took the state to the top. Even after the bifurcation, he started the development process of the state, but now, Jagan Reddy derailed all those efforts, Shah said. Amith Shah was addressing an election meeting for the BJP candidate from Dharmavaram assembly segment Satya Kumar at Dharmavaram in Satya Sai district. He said Jagan Mohan Reddy had kept none of his promises and development stands at 0, investment stands at 0 and unemployment is at its peak, even with a rise in the states debt to `13.50 lakh crore. The Infrastructure projects are all shut down, but the projects of the land mafia are going on in full force. Jagan Reddy promised a ban on alcohol. Did he implement the ban? Instead, he started a whole syndicate of alcohol in the state. The Union minister criticised the Jagan Mohan Reddy government for undermining the Telugu language and promised that the BJP would safeguard it as long as we are in power. Shah emphasized the importance of the Polavaram project as a lifeline for Andhra Pradesh, crediting the BJP for its national status and promising rapid completion of the project in two years if the BJP-led government is elected at both the state and central levels. He accused the Jagan-led state administration of delaying the project due to corruption. Shah made it clear that the BJP, TDP and Jana Sena have formed a coalition in Andhra Pradesh specifically to end the corruption and chaotic administration in the state. He highlighted the coalition's commitment to fight corruption and criminal elements, and said his presence in Dharmavaram was to strengthen this fight. He noted that two phases of the seven-phased Lok Sabha elections had already concluded, and expressed confidence in the coalition's prospects in the third phase too. TD chief N Chandrababu Naidu called on the people to support the alliance to complete Amaravati state capital, Polavaram and other pending projects in addition to the manifesto of the alliance. Interestingly, several party workers displayed Jr NTR photos and banners in the public meeting.

Rajnath says law and order in Kadapa in bad shape

Anantapur: Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday alleged that the law and order situation remained bad in Kadapa, the home district of Chief Minister YS Jagn Mohan Reddy. Rajnath Singh arrived in the region to campaign for BJP assembly segment candidate of Jammalamadugu, C Adinarayana Reddy, and TDs Lok Sabha candidate Bhupesh Reddy of Kadapa. While addressing the BJP workers meeting in Yerraguntla in Kadapa district, Rajanath Singh came down heavily on the YSRC government over its massive failures even in utilising the funds and schemes from the Centre during the past five years. The Union minister observed that the Central government had sanctioned 25 lakh pakka houses for the poor in AP but the chief minister failed to construct these houses and instead gave house sites in remote places for the beneficiaries. Rajnath Singh recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modis initiative to honour former premier PV Narasimha Rao with the Bharat Ratna award. He claimed that a double engine government will be formed in AP to ensure overall development, and called on the party cadres to work hard for victory of the candidates of the three-party alliance. Rajnath Singh underscored the urgent need for development of Andhra Pradesh during a road show in Adoni in Kurnool district, pointing out the state's slow progress under the YSR Congress rule despite assistance from the Centre. He emphasized that Andhra Pradesh, once economically prosperous, has now fallen into financial distress. The defence minister highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts to address housing shortages and cited the earmarking of funds for 21 lakh houses for Andhra Pradesh by the central government. However, the state government built only 2 lakh houses, he said. Moreover, he questioned the utilization of funds allocated for essential projects like the Amrit Mission and pointed out the discrepancies in spending. He pledged the Modi-led government's commitment to ensuring efficient allocation and utilization of resources for the state's development. On the economic front, Rajnath Singh expressed confidence in India's growth trajectory, predicting its ascent to the third-largest economic power globally by 2027. He emphasized the importance of proactive measures to propel the state and the nation towards prosperity. Lok Sabha candidate B Nagaraju and assembly candidate Dr V Partha Sarathi joined the defence minister at the roadshow, highlighting their support for the development agenda.

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.

Anantapur selections - The Times of India

Anantapur selections The Times of India

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.

Andhra Pradesh: IMD issues severe heatwave alert in 58 mandals today

VISAKHAPATNAM : As many as 58 mandals, including 12 in Srikakulam, 23 in Vizianagaram, and 14 in Parvathipuram Manyam, one in Visakhapatnam and eight in Anakapalli, are likely to experience severe heatwave conditions on Saturday. Additionally, 169 mandals are expected to record heatwave conditions, as per the forecast by the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA). According to the India Meteorological Departments Amaravati Centres forecast, isolated places in North Coastal Andhra Pradesh (NCAP), Yanam, South Coastal Andhra Pradesh (SCAP), and Rayalaseema regions will experience heatwave conditions on Saturday and Sunday. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of 30-40 kmph are also expected in these areas. However, there is a slight relief in sight as heavy rain is expected in isolated places over NCAP, Yanam, and SCAP on May 7. On Friday, 63 mandals recorded severe heatwave, with Nandyal registering the highest maximum temperature at 46.3 degrees Celsius closely followed by Kadapa at 46.2 degrees Celsius, Kurnool at 45.9 degrees Celsius, Jangamaheswarapuram was 45.2 degrees Celsius, and Anantapur at 44.4 degrees Celsius. While 208 mandals recorded heatwave. Areas on the outskirts of Visakhapatnam and Vizianagaram received rainfall on Friday evening, providing some respite from the heat.

Jagan failed to do minimum development for Kadapa: Chandrababu Naidu

ANANTAPUR : Telugu Desam chief N. Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday said that Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy had failed to do minimum development of Kadapa area and confined the long-pending steel plant project to foundation stones. Naidu cautioned land owners over possible pledging of their lands in future if Jagan Mohan Reddy is returned to power. Objecting to the use of Jagan Mohan Reddy photos on the passbooks of lands, Chandrababu Naidu recalled that neither himself nor the Rajampet LS candidate N. Kiran Kumar Reddy had ever used their photos on passbooks. Whether these lands belonged to the grandfather of Jagan Mohan Reddy or were acquired by ancestors of these families, Naidu wanted to know. He reiterated that Jagan Mohan Reddy was guarding Kadapa MP, Y.S. Avinash Reddy, and again was allotted the LS seat for contest though he was accused in the murder of Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy.

Anantapur: Elderly Man Collapses Outside Bank Premises in Rayachoti

Anantapur: An old man died in front of a bank premises after going to withdraw his old age pension at Rayachoti in Annamayya district on Thursday. The deceased was Mudragada Subbanna, 80 of Kakulapuram in Lakkireddypalli mandal who reportedly suffered sun stroke and collapsed on the spot. Sources said the 80-year-old Subbanna had SB account at Canara Bank branch in Rayachoti town and went to withdraw his pension. After enquiring at his gram sachivalayam, he came to know that the pension amount was transferred to his account and then he went to the bank to withdraw amount. Energy minister Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy accused the opposition Telugu Desam and its chief Chandrababu Naidu of interfering with the distribution of pensions to the elderly by invoking the election code rules. The minister claimed that Naidu, through his close aide Nimmagadda Ramesh approached the election commission to exclude volunteers from the home delivery of pensions.

Long-neglected Thamballapalle constituency pins hope on electoral outcome

Tirupati: The Thamballapalle constituency, located at the intersection of Kadapa and Anantapur districts and Karnataka, may be one of the most underdeveloped regions in former Chittoor district, but it's a hotbed of political activity. Dominated by the Backward Classes (BC) community, this drought-prone area has for long grappled with economic neglect from successive governments. With 2,24,664 total voters, including 1,10,557 males, 1,14,095 females and 12 others, this segment packs a considerable electoral punch despite its backwardness. In recent years, though, respite has come in the form of significant rainfall. Yet, the farmers struggle to get minimum support price for their produce. This has led many to migrate to neighbouring districts and Karnataka in search of livelihood. The region, although receiving water through the Handri-Neeva Sujala Sravanthi project, remains economically underdeveloped. However, it boasts of the presence of notable landmarks such as the famous Horsley Hills and the prestigious Rishi Valley school. As the polls approach, the long-neglected Thamballapalle constituency is pinning its hopes on the electoral outcome, yearning for a government that will prioritize its development and address its long-standing issues. The incumbent YSRC is fighting to retain its stronghold after clinching a resounding victory in 2019. Its candidate, Peddireddy Dwarakanath Reddy brother of minister Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy trounced his Telugu Desam rival and then sitting MLA Shankar Yadav by 46,938 votes. In 2014, Shankar had defeated YSRC's Praveen Kumar Reddy by 9,190 votes. Intriguingly, in 2009, Praveen had run on a TD ticket, besting Yadav, who was then the Congress candidate highlighting the fluidity of political loyalties. Since its inception in 1983, the TD has secured this seat four times (1983, 1994, 2009, 2014), while the Congress has won it six times. The YSRC and the Swatantra Party have tasted victory once each, with independents also clinching two terms. Dwarakanath Reddy, the ruling party's candidate, aims to leverage his family's regional influence and the welfare schemes of the Jagan Mohan Reddy government. Conversely, the TD, having lost the 2019 election, seeks a comeback by nominating businessman Dasarapalle Jayachandra Reddy from Mulakalacheruvu mandal. He aims to tap into the perceived anti-incumbency sentiment and leverage the party's promises of implementing sops to woo voters.

TS HC Confirms Life Imprisonment of Suris Killer

Hyderabad: The Telangana High Court on Thursday upheld the sentence of life imprisonment of Malisetty Bhanu Kiran, alias Bhanu, in the killing of Gangula Suryanarayana Reddy, alias Maddilacheruvu Suri, a faction leader from Anantapur district, who had played a key role in the 2005 killing of the then MLA Paritala Ravi. Kiran was a close aide of Suri, whom he gunned down in January 2011. The Nampally court had in 2018 found Kiran guilty in the murder of Suri and sentenced him to life imprisonment. Challenging the same, Kiran approached the High Court. The bench of Justice K. Lakshman and Justice P. Sree Sudha heard the petition and on Thursday confirmed the trial courts order. Kirans contention was that there was no direct evidence to prove that he had killed Suri and that most of the witnesses had given contradictory statements, with many them turning hostile. Public prosecutor Palle Nageswara Rao said that Bhanu planned the murder and executed it when travelling with Suri in Hyderabad. Suri was sitting next to the driver and the only person in the rear seat was Kiran. He shot Suri from behind. The injuries on the right lower side of Suris head and the neck conclusively proved that it was Kiran who had pulled the trigger. After the offence, Bhanu fled to Madhya Pradesh where he changed his name to Mukesh Kunjam and secured an Aadhaar card on that name. The Madhya Pradesh police had booked Kiran for leading a dubious life with a fake identity. The gun that kiran used in the crime belonged to his private security person Man Mohan Singh Bhadauria, who was awarded five years jail in the same case, the public prosecutor said.

Anantapur's Farmers Pin Hopes on 'Resilient Agriculture' Promises

Anantapur's Farmers Pin Hopes on 'Resilient Agriculture' Promises In the drought-prone areas of the Anantapur Parliamentary constituency in Andhra Pradesh, resentment is brewing among farmers who are determined to cast their votes for parties that offer tangible solutions to their long-standing water woes and agrarian challenges. The drought-stricken cultivators, who have battled nature's wrath year after year, now find themselves at the crossroads of political reckoning. Disillusioned by empty promises and inadequate measures, they are rallying behind a clarion call for change. The Anantapur parliamentary constituency comprises seven assembly segments, where drinking and irrigation water is a major concern for farmers. Most of them rely on borewells dug as deep as 900 feet in this region due to poor rainfall and lack of irrigation facilities. Groundnut, the main crop of this area, has seen a significant decline in cultivation due to lack of rainfall, forcing farmers to give up farming and migrate to cities for their livelihood. T Rajendra (44), a farmer from Itukapalli village of Anantapur mandal, said, ''There has been insufficient rainfall in the last eight years, and the water table has dropped sharply. Even borewells are not working properly. I have dug 40 borewells, but only four were successful.'' The subsidy on drip irrigation, which farmers received during the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) tenure until 2019, was altogether stopped by the incumbent YSR Congress government, exacerbating the farmers' problems, he told PTI. ''Had the state government continued the subsidy on drip irrigation, the situation would have been different. I will vote for change this time,'' he said. Raitha Sangha District Secretary Chandrashekar said for nearly two decades, farmers in drought prone Anantapur believed groundnut was the sole crop resilient enough to withstand erratic rainfall patterns. This ingrained belief led to a massive surge in groundnut cultivation area - from 1,94,840 hectares in 1961-62 to a staggering 8,11,156 hectares by 2005-06. By 2006-07, Anantapur district alone accounted for a whopping 50 per cent of the total groundnut cultivation area in the entire state of Andhra Pradesh, he said. ''However, this crop cultivation brought immense misery to the district's farmers. After 1998, more than 10,000 groundnut farmers committed suicide,'' he claimed. At least one lakh agricultural laborers have been migrating every year, he added. The main reasons for this situation were lack of timely rains leading to crop failure, getting trapped in debt due to excessive borrowing for crop protection through bore wells, lack of remunerative prices from the government despite increased input costs, new pests, and reduced yields. To rescue the farming community of the district, governments appointed several committees. The experts in those committees made valuable recommendations to the governments, but none of them were implemented, he said and hoped the next government whichever party forms will take serious note of this. As per the official data, irrigation facilities in Anantapur district are available for only 3.04 per cent of the total cultivated area of 14.85 lakh acres. The 1972 National Irrigation Commission had suggested providing irrigation facilities to at least 30 per cent of the land area for agriculture to sustain in this district. Commissions like Jaitely Ghosh in 2004, Swaminathan Foundation report in 2009 and the New Delhi committee report in 2012 all recommended diverting river waters to overcome droughts in Anantapur district. ''While expert recommendations gathered dust, works on projects initiated decades ago are still incomplete,'' Chandrashekar said, adding that farmers are not able to go for expensive drip irrigation as the YSR Congress government has scrapped the subsidy on it,'' the Raithu Sangha leader said. Many farmers are upset with the YSR Congress government for not addressing their issues. The state government has announced only one scheme Raithu Barosa, under which Rs 5,500 per annum was given to the farmers, which has allegedly not been implemented properly. ''I am getting Rs 6,000 per annum under the central scheme PM-KISAN and not the state government's 'Raithu Barosa' scheme benefits,'' farmer Balu Bojjaiah (50) from the same village said. Farming has become difficult due to increased cost of production. For instance, the labour cost has increased to Rs 350-500 for six hours of work compared to eight hours a day earlier. The tractor cost has risen from Rs 500 per hour to Rs 1,500 per hour, excluding diesel expenses, he said. Lakshmi Narayana (64), a farmer who also works as a battery vehicle operator at Sri Krishnadevaraya University, lamented that farming has become a loss-making business. ''I invest my entire salary in maintaining my farm, yet I get nothing substantial in return.'' Narayana, who grows groundnut, cotton, and paddy on 10 acres of land, said. ''Suppose if I spend Rs 2,000 on my farm, I get only half of it in return. I have a debt of Rs 40 lakh.'' In the Anantapur Parliamentary constituency, 33 candidates are contesting, with a straight fight between TDP's G Lakshminarayana and YSR Congress's M Sankara Narayana, although Congress' Mallikarjuna Vajjala is also in the fray. TDP candidate Lakshminarayana blamed the incumbent government for neglecting Anantapur and promised to develop the region if voted to power. ''The main problem is water. There are several reservoirs and irrigation projects which are either neglected or remained non-starter -- all these will be taken up if voted to power.''

AP Records Highest Temperature of 46.2 C

Visakhapatnam : in Palnadu district and Rentachintala in Guntur district became hottest places in the country by registering a temperature of 46.2 degrees Celsius on Wednesday. This was 4.5 notches above the maximum normal temperature. According to an IMD report, the maximum temperature has breached 46 degree Celsius for the first time in AP on Wednesday. The report said Tirupati recorded the second hottest temperature in the state at 45.6C (5.2 notches above normal), followed by Nandyal 45.4C, Nandigama 44.6C, Kurnool 44.5C, Kadapa 44.2C, Anantapur 43.4C, Amaravati 43.2C, Kavali 43.1C and Tuni 41.4C. The minimum temperature also hovered around 28 degrees in many parts of the state, intensifying the heat conditions. Lowest temperatures of 34.4 degrees Celsius and 34.9 Degrees Celsius were recorded in Kalingapatnam in Srikakulam district and Visakhapatnam. Weathermen said Tirupati, Jangamaheswarapuram, Kavali, Tuni, Nandyal and Argoyavaram experienced heatwave conditions on Wednesday while the remaining parts of the state experienced hot and humid weather conditions. Severe heatwaves will sweep across Rayalaseema till May 5 while the remaining parts of the state will experience heatwave conditions till May 5. Referring to the current extreme heatwave conditions in the state, IMD Amaravati scientist Karuna Sagar attributed the extreme heat to a combination of weather patterns that included a lack of low pressure in April and an anticyclonic flow. The absence of sea breeze entering eastern and peninsular India due to anticyclonic flow is the major reason for the heatwave conditions, he added. Tuni town in Kakinada district recorded the highest temperature of 46.4C on June 17, 2023 and Vijayawada recorded the highest temperature of 46C on May 22, 2020 as per the IMD data between 2018 and 2024 (April).

Anantapur tense following attack on YSRC leader

Anantapur : A tense situation has been prevailing in Anantapur since Tuesday night after a group of men attacked YSRC leader Nagesh on outskirts of the city. Nagesh has been admitted to the Government General Hospital in Anantapur with serious injuries Police have arrested a Telugu Desam corporator Jayaram Naidu and his close aides for attempting to murder the YSRC leader. TD Anantapur Urban candidate Daggubati Venkateswara Prasad and other leaders staged a protest at the Three Town police station on Wednesday against the arrest of their leaders. Sitting MLA and YSRC candidate from the constituency Ananta Venkatrami Reddy rushed to the hospital to inquire about the health of Nagesh. He directed hospital authorities to provide proper medical care to the YSRC leader. Venkatrami Reddy met Anantapur SP and demanded that serious action be taken against those resorting to violence ahead of the polls.

Heat Wave Sweeps Five Places

Visakhapatnam: Jangamaheswarapuram in Palnadu district and Rentachintala in Guntur district became hottest places in India registering a temperature of 46.2 degrees Celsius on Wednesday. This was 4.5 notches above the maximum normal temperature. According to IMD report, the maximum temperature has breached 46 degree Celsius for the first time in Andhra Pradesh on Wednesday. The report said Tirupati recorded the second hottest in the state at 45.6C (5.2 notches above normal), followed by Nandyal 45.4C, Nandigama 44.6C, Kurnool 44.5C, Kadapa 44.2C, Anantapur 43.4C, Amaravati 43.2C, Kavali 43.1C and Tuni 41.4C. The minimum temperature also hovered around 28 degrees in many parts of the state intensifying the heat conditions. Lowest temperatures of 34.4 degrees Celsius and 34.9 Degrees Celsius were recorded in Kalingapatnam in Srikakulam district and Visakhapatnam. The weathermen said Tirupati, Jangamaheswarapuram, Kavali, Tuni, Nandyal and Argoyavaram experienced heat wave conditions on Wednesday while the remaining parts of the state experienced hot and humid weather conditions. Severe heat waves will sweep across Rayalaseema till May 5 while the remaining parts of the state will experience heat wave conditions till May 5. Referring to the current extreme heat wave conditions in the state, IMD Amaravathi scientist Dr S Karuna Sagar attributed that the extreme heat to a combination of weather patterns which include lack of low pressure in April and anticyclonic flow. The absence of sea breeze entering eastern and peninsular India due to anticyclonic flow is the major reason for the heat wave conditions, he added. Tuni town in Kakinada district in Andhra Pradesh had recorded the highest temperature of 46.4C on June 17, 2023 and Vijayawada recorded the highest temperature of 46C on May 22, 2020 as per the IMD data between 2018 and 2024 (April).

Collector, observers inspect counting centres, strong rooms in Anantapur

Severe heatwave likely in 61 Andhra Pradesh mandals today

VISAKHAPATNAM: The Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) has forecasted severe heatwave conditions in 61 mandals across Andhra Pradesh, including nine in Anakapalle, 14 in Parvathipuram Manyam, 13 in Srikakulam, one in Visakhapatnam, and 24 in Vizianagaram on Tuesday. Additionally, 173 mandals are expected to experience a heatwave. According to the India Meteorological (IMD) Amaravati Centre, prevailing lower tropospheric Southerly/South and south-westerly winds over AP and Yanam are contributing to these severe heat conditions. Heatwave is expected at isolated places over North Coastal Andhra Pradesh (NCAP), Yanam, South Coastal Andhra Pradesh (SCAP), and Rayalaseema until Wednesday. Further, severe heatwaves are predicted at isolated places over Rayalaseema on Thursday and Friday. On Monday, Nandyala recorded the highest maximum temperature of 45 degrees Celsius, followed by Anantapur at 44.7 degrees Celsius, Kurnool at 44.3 degrees Celsius, Kadapa at 44 degrees Celsius, Jangamaheshwarapuram at 43 degrees Celsius, Tirupati at 42.2 degrees Celsius, and Nandigama at 42 degrees Celsius. Around 59 mandals faced severe heatwave conditions on Monday, with one in ASR district and Sri Satya Sai, 10 in Anakapalle and Parvathipuram Manyam, 12 in Srikakulam, three in Visakhapatnam, and 22 in Vizianagaram.

Travel tips: These popular temples of Andhra Pradesh attract foreigners also, show magnificent architecture

Every part of India has its unique characteristics, some of which are also known for their religious places. One such state is Andhra Pradesh of South India where you will get to see one or the other temple at every nook and corner. Here you will find temples of all the revered gods and goddesses of Hindu religion. Along with religious faith, the temples here are also known for their architecture. These temples built centuries ago are now known for tourism and even foreigners come here to see them. Today in this episode, we are going to tell you about some popular temples of Andhra Pradesh, which are visited by lakhs of devotees from almost every corner of the country and you should also visit once. Let us know about these temples... Kanaka Durga Temple Indrakeeladri is a very beautiful hill in Vijayawada city of Andhra Pradesh. The holy Krishna river flows along this hill and the Kanaka Durga temple of Maa Durga is built on its banks. Special worship is done here during Navratri. People have great faith in this temple of Goddess Durga. There is a large gathering of devotees here. There is a huge celebration here on the day of Dussehra and on this day pilgrims take a holy dip in the Krishna river. Kanak Durga Temple in Andhra Pradesh is one of the many Shaktipeeths located in the country. The goddess is installed here in her Mahishasuramardini form, along with the idol of the slain demon king Mahishasura is also present here. People believe in this temple that the wishes of every devotee who comes here are fulfilled. That's why thousands of devotees come here every year to have darshan. Venkateswara Temple Tirupati Tirupati Balaji Temple, located on the Tirumala hill in Tirupati in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, is one of the major temples and religious places of Andhra Pradesh where lakhs of devotees come every year to have darshan of Venkateshwara and fulfill their wishes. Tirupati Balaji Temple is highly recognized among the people of Hindu religion. The glory of this temple is immense. It is said that by visiting Tirupati once in life, life becomes successful. Built at a height of 853 feet above Sumrdi level, this temple is also called the Temple of Seven Hills because of the seven peaks on the hill. This is the richest temple in the country in terms of charity and religion. Every year crores of rupees are donated to this temple. Every day 50 thousand to 1 lakh devotees reach the temple to have darshan of Venkateswara, while on special occasions the number of pilgrims goes up to 5 lakh. Lepakshi Temple Lepakshi Temple is a major tourist destination in Andhra Pradesh. Lepakshi Temple, located in the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh, is also known as Veerabhadra Temple and Hanging Temple. Lepakshi Temple is famous for its mysterious stories as well as the Hanging Pillars. It is said that a glimpse of the history of the Vijayanagara Empire can also be seen in this temple. Here you will also see the footprints of Mother Sita. Apart from architectural importance, the temple is also an important pilgrimage site of Lord Shiva as per Skanda Purana. Lepakshi is a temple which attracts not only pilgrims but also art lovers. Srikalahasti Temple Srikalahasti Temple is located in Chittoor district of Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh. The temple of Srikalahasti is extremely popular among the devotees who visit this temple along with the Tirupati temple. This temple is 36 km from Tirupati. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva which holds immense religious importance for Hindus and was built in the year 1516 by King Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagara Empire. The entrance to the temple offers stunning views and has intricate carvings of many mythological paintings. This magnificent temple is often referred to as Kailasa and Kashi of the South. The temple represents one of the five elements and that is air. Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is built on the Nallamala hills of Srisailam in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. These huge hills are considered to be the abode of God. It is said that Shiva is everywhere here. This temple is also one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, hence this place has special significance. Lord Rama himself had established the Sahasralinga here, while the Pandavas had established the Panchapandava Linga in the courtyard of the temple. Ranganath Temple Situated on the banks of Pennar River in Nellore, Ranganatha Temple is one of the most revered temples of Andhra Pradesh. Ranganatha Temple, dedicated to Ranganathaswami Swami, is considered to be the oldest temple in the area and attracts a large number of devotees. Let us tell you that along with its religious activities, this temple is also known for its beautiful architecture and exquisite carvings, which make it a very special place for devotees as well as art lovers and tourists. Whenever you come here, you will be able to see the idol of Lord Sri Ranganathaswamy, the presiding deity of the temple, as well as a hall decorated with intricate carvings in which seven gold vessels are kept. Kolanu Bharati Temple Kolanu Bharati Temple in Andhra Pradesh is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati and is a very sacred pilgrimage site. An ancient Shivalinga is also present in this temple complex, for whose darshan thousands of tourists come every day. Apart from this, there is a statue of Kaal Bhairav in this temple complex which is considered a very sacred statue. The age-old tradition of Aksharashim is still followed in this ancient temple. The temple complex also has a Shivalinga, known as Sapta Linga Kshetra, and an idol of Kaal Bhairava that guards the area. (PC: Lifeberrys)

YSRCs multiple capitals decision foolish: Nara Lokesh

GUNTUR: Establishing multiple cities as capitals is one of the most foolish decisions of the YSRC government, TDP general secretary Nara Lokesh said in an interview with TNIE. Exuding confidence that he will win the Mangalagiri Assembly seat, the former IT minister said he implemented 29 welfare and development schemes for the people of the constituency in the past four years and 11 months. On lessons learnt after the 2019 defeat, Lokesh said the TDP began aggressively countering YSRCs false propaganda. Stating that the ruling party has failed to maintain a balance between welfare and development, he assured that the TDP will provide 20 lakh jobs to the youth, which will in turn improve the economy of the State by two-and-a-half times. With only a few weeks left for the elections, how is your election campaign in Mangalagiri? I covered 3,132 km as part of my Yuva Galam Padayatra across the State to know the peoples problems. Now, I am fully concentrated on my own Assembly constituency to reach out to the people. I am going on a Statewide tour next week to interact with the youth. Since the inception of Mangalagiri constituency, the TDP won the seat in 1983 and 1985 only. What made you choose Mangalagiri to contest in the first place? I am a third generation politician. I did not want to go for a safe seat. I always believe that one should take a tough seat, fight hard and win to prove oneself. I failed in my first attempt as I did not have enough time and I was not able to win the trust of people of Mangalagiri in 2019. Since the day I lost, Ive been working hard and serving the people of Mangalagiri to win their trust for the past four-years-and-11-months. I am confident that they elect me with a huge majority this time. After the 2019 defeat, what changes did you make in your election strategy? We are now able to aggressively counter the false propaganda unleashed by the ruling dispensation against us. They are very good at false propaganda. Well that is something probably we need to learn from them. How to tell a lie and convince people so effectively. When former minister YS Vivenkananda Reddy was assassinated, the TDP was blamed for it. When the CBI began inquiry, it is Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddys own family member YS Avinash Reddy, who is again contesting from Kadapa as an MP, was named in the chargesheet. Jagan has destroyed the State economically. There are no employment opportunities. Youth have become disillusioned and they are not able to focus on things. If you observe, the ganja menace has gone up substantially. There is a need to get them out of its influence, and provide a good ecosystem to the youth of Andhra Pradesh, reintegrate back and they will definitely get jobs and thats what we are aiming to do now. The YSRC has fielded Murugudu Lavanya, who hails from the weaver community, against you. How confident are you to win against the YSRC candidate? I have served all the sections of people in Mangalagiri without any discrimination. In the last four years, I have implemented 29 welfare and development schemes in the constituency with my own funds. I believe that I have reached out to the people, cutting across the caste and religious lines. The people will certainly give their massive mandate to me this time. What about the influence of local factor in the election? At the end of the day, it is a matter of fact that I was not born here. I was born and brought up in Hyderabad. Post bifurcation of the State, I shifted to Mangalagiri. I have been living here for the last eight years. My vote and my entire familys votes are registered here. So, Im as much local as everyone else in the constituency know. Actually, I believe that people will observe who has served them not local or local. What are the major issues of the people you observed at the ground level during your Yuva Galam Padayatra? The peoples answer to my question what are you expecting from the government? is Provide us jobs. Do whatever it takes to give us jobs. So, if you look at the promises we have given, our first promise in the manifesto is to create 20 lakh jobs, both in the private and public sector. Number two is, lack of basic infrastructure in every constituency. The YSRC government has completely neglected drinking water, roads and drainage system. When I was the Panchayat Raj and Rural Development Minister, CC roads were laid to a length of 25,000 km across the State. We will create better infrastructure everywhere to improve the quality of living. Third is the prevalence of ganja. It has destroyed families. Now, Andhra Pradesh has become the net exporter of ganja to other States. If ganja is found in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and other States, it has come from Andhra Pradesh. We will put an end to ganja menace in the first 100 days of our government. These are the three major issues that Ive noticed. You are saying that job creation will be your top priority. If we take the IT sector, many companies are laying off their employees. In this scenario, do you think is it possible to create more jobs in IT sector? IT is one of many sectors. If you look at Andhra Pradesh, it is clearly a large State. Coastal based economy can be promoted in a big way. Each district has a focus area. If you look at Anantapur, automobiles is its focus area, electronics manufacturing in Chittoor, renewable energy and cement in Kurnool, like that. Every district has a focus area and IT is probably focused in Visakhapatnam. So, we believe that we have the ecosystem already in place. A lot of companies got seated in our term and we can create a spin off companies in the entire ecosystem. We will create both blue and white collar jobs. It is not just focused on IT alone. There are huge opportunities in pharma sector in North Andhra. In IT, new jobs are being created through AI. Big Data is again a big sector. If you look at it, we had a specific policy for data centers and thats what we got Adanis for. We signed a project with them, unfortunately, it didnt go forward due to the current government. Thats the project, Im eager to restart, when the government changes. I think such sectors, if we focus on new sectors, we can create more jobs. After accusing YSRC of spending more money on welfare schemes and neglecting development of the State, the TDP has announced Super 6 and promised to double the allocation for the welfare schemes, which are very similar to what are already being implemented by the government. Is it correct? If you closely look at it, you know the difference. The monthly support that we promised to women, is not part of any current scheme. Provision of three free LPG cylinders a year is not part of any existing scheme. We have come up with our own manifesto after seeing the suffering of the people at the grass root level. The first of Super Six is to create 20 lakh jobs. That will enhance the economy by two-and-a-half times. What we are criticising this government is that it is making debts to spend on welfare. That is hurting the people. It is creating an inflation problem. Power charges have increased, taxes have gone up. Everything is going up. It should not be not like that. There should be a balance between welfare and development, and the TDP is known for it. If you look at the Deepam scheme, it was originally introduced by the TDP. Considering the existing financial position of the State, do you think balancing both welfare and development is practically possible? We had the same problem in 1995. In 1995, the State was in a huge debt. But the then Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, with his growth vision and planning was able to turn around the State. We are more than capable of doing it and people have seen it. Is there still any friction among leaders and cadres of TDP, BJP and Jana Sena Party? It is very common that small issues crop up in a family time and again. But, as the head of the family, the father and the mother sit together and resolve the issues. Similarly, all the leaders of three parties will sit and resolve the issues if any. I am not saying every marriage is perfect. In fact, lets put it in the other way, no marriage is perfect. Every marriage has its issues. Again it all depends on how you resolve the issues. Minor issues keep coming, small clashes and differences, but at the end of the day, we resolve these issues and move on. Because our agenda is very clear, and it is to develop the State. If we have to develop the State, it is only possible with the tripartite alliance. In the present political scenario, do you think the vote transfer will occur as successfully as expected? One 100%. We expect 100% vote transfer to avoid split in anti-incumbency vote to ensure the YSRCs defeat in the elections. Because, all the three parties are motivating their cadres explaining to them the importance and making sure even one vote doesnt go outside of the alliance. Unlike in other States, politicians in our State are using inflammatory language in their election speeches and even TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu. What is the need for it? I dont believe that Chandrababu Naidu is using inflammatory language, fundamentally. In fact, if you notice, he is one of the most balanced politicians in the country. He never takes anything for granted. There are certain brand annotations for every leader. For Jagan Mohan Reddy, it has been psycho as his brand annotation. And its because of his erratic behaviour. The three capital proposal is an erratic behaviour. Because you promised only one capital. While you were entering this premises, you saw Praja Vedika that had been destroyed by his government. It was legal, it was legally constructed, and he destroyed it. Because he is not of a stable mind. If you look at his policies, if you look at his behaviour, thats what we are explaining to the people. So, we are not using any inflammatory language during our electioneering to create a rift between castes, regions and religions. Thats not something the TDP is into. With elections just a few weeks away, when can we expect the joint manifesto from the tripartite alliance? Thats something we are working on. All of us are committed to Babus Super Six policy. Thats something and thats related after the discussions with JSP chief Pawan Kalyan. We have come together to discuss it. Subsequently, we had a detailed discussion with the BJP. Thats the cornerstone of our election manifesto and we are going to announce it soon. If TDP comes to power, would you like to serve as IT Minister for the second time, or are you interested in any other ministry? Ill leave it to the tripartite alliance leadership. The alliance leadership has to decide it. Its not for me to comment on that. My job is to serve the people. In power or out of power, we are trained by Mr Naidu to do one thing, serve the people. Even during the Covid-19 pandemic also, we were busy serving the people. That is what we are hardwired to do and we will continue to do. We are going to remain very focused. As Lokesh, Im very focused on serving Mangalagiri people, people of Andhra Pradesh and Telugu people at large. That is the motto of TDP. Watch the full video of the interview on TNIE Videos on YouTube

Jagan Starts 3.0 Campaign With Barbs at TD Chief

Tirupati: Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy on Sunday cautioned voters not to place faith in opposition leader Nara Chandrababu Naidu, as it will be a perilous act of putting one's head in a tiger's mouth. The YSRC chief employed vivid analogies, likening voting for Naidu to awakening Chandramukhi, a renowned demonic figure from Indian cinema. Buoyed by his Memanta Siddham bus yatra, the ruling party president commenced his next phase of campaign from Tadipatri in Anantapur district on Sunday, redoubling the pitch of implementing his partys 2024. Later, the CM also participated in public rallies in Venkatagiri and Kandukur constituencies. Addressing charged crowds, Jagan Mohan Reddy asserted that the YSRC government has delivered on its promises made in its 2019 manifesto, which he referred to as a holy book. He described the upcoming elections as a crucial choice between continuing his government's transformative welfare agenda or its dismantling by an opposition regime. This election is not about electing MPs and MLAs. It is about deciding whether the life-changing initiatives for the poor will continue for another five years or wither away. Our schemes will continue uninterrupted if you reaffirm your faith in YSRC. However, be prepared for the untimely demise of these schemes if you succumb to Chandrababu's mirage of fictional promises, warned the YSRC chief. He accused the TD chief of rehashing unrealistic pledges to suck the blood of poor, like a Chandramukhi. He reminded people that the TD-Jana Sena-BJP combines Super 6 guarantees are to deceive the people once again in 2024, like the alliance did in 2014. Contrarily, he claimed, his government has treated its 2019 manifesto commitments as sacrosanct, directly transferring over 2.7 lakh crore to beneficiaries through 130 types of welfare payments. Jagan Mohan Reddy said: As elections are drawing near, non-locals are coming to our state. However, be assured; these opportunists will quickly return to Hyderabad once they face defeat. Chandrababu's alliance is merely a non-local kitty party group with no genuine interest in the welfare of our people, or the development of our state. CM pauses speech during namaz While addressing public at his meeting in Kandukur, he paused his speech on hearing the call from nearby masjid for Muslims to pray. Highlighting his tenure's achievements, he said the village / ward secretariat system brought governance to the people's doorsteps, along with initiatives like revamped schools, village clinics, and transparent financial assistance schemes. On education, Jagan cited digital classrooms, free textbooks and meals, English teaching via the IB curriculum, and online certification courses as major reforms. He listed pro-farmer measures like interest-free crop loans, free electricity, input subsidies, crop insurance, and assured procurement at MSPs. He also highlighted women's empowerment and caste-based quotas in nominated positions and ministries. The YSRC chief pointed out that the TD regime not only deceived farmers on loan waivers, but also failed to waive a single rupee of DWCRA loans.

Heat Wave Sweeps Rayalaseema, Rains Lash ASR District

Commuters cover themselves with scarves to escape the heat wave in Nellore (Photo: Deccan Chronicle) Visakhapatnam : Some parts in Rayalaseema region of AP suffered searing heat conditions for the second time in the season on Sunday. ASR district, however, witnessed thunderstorms, which lashed Paderu and Chintapalli for the second day. Visakhapatnam region remained cool as the sky remained overcast for the entire day. Visakhapatnam registered a temperature of 35.4 degrees Celsius while Kalingapatnam recorded 35.1 degrees Celsius, making it the coldest place in the state for the day. A report from IMD Amaravati said two places in AP recorded more than 45 degree Celsius temperatures on Sunday, the first time in April this year. People across the state felt the pinch of the rise in mercury levels, compelling many people to remain indoors for the entire day. On Sunday (April 28), Nandyal was the hottest in the state with 45.6C, followed by Kurnool (45.2C), Anantapur (44.1C), Jangamaheswarapuram (44C), Kadapa (43.6C), Nandigama (43C), Tirupati (42.9C) and Amaravati (42.2C). The remaining parts of the state recorded maximum temperatures between 39C and 41C. On Saturday (April 27), Nandyal was the hottest in the state with 44.9C, followed by Kurnool (44.5C), Anantapur (43.7C), Kadapa (43.4C), Jangamaheswarapuram (43.2C) and Tirupati (42.9C). Mercury levels are likely to rise above 45C at many places in Rayalaseema region and in some parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh during the first week of May, said Dr. S. Karuna Sagar, scientist at IMD Amaravati. Many political leaders rescheduled their campaign timing from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. However, in north coastal Andhra, the campaign went on for the entire day, as the temperature remained moderate.

Jagan will secure bigger majority in Pulivendula: Bharathi

Anantapur: Y.S. Bharathi, the spouse of Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, exuded confidence on Sunday, stating that Jagan's upcoming victory in Pulivendula would surpass previous election results. Amidst a fervent campaign in Kadapa district, Bharathi engaged with diverse segments of the populace, witnessing overwhelming support for Jagan across the constituency. She emphasized Jagan's commitment to delivering on manifesto pledges, contrasting his approach with Chandrababu Naidu's history of unfulfilled promises. Bharathi reaffirmed her unwavering support for Jagan, continuing a tradition established by her late father-in-law, Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy and reiterated her dedication to serving the electorate.

58 mandals in Andhra Pradesh to reel under severe heatwave today

VIJAYAWADA: As many as 58 mandals in the State are likely to reel under severe heatwave, while 148 mandals are likely to experience heatwave-like conditions on Sunday. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty wind speeds reaching 30 -40 kmph likely at isolated places over North Coastal Andhra Pradesh (NCAP) on Sunday and Monday. Heatwave likely at isolated places over Rayalaseema for the same period. Further, hot, humid, and discomfort weather is likely at isolated places across the State. On Saturday, AP largely experienced hot and humid conditions with daytime temperatures being above 400 C at most places. APSDMA in its daily bulletin said on Saturday that 77 mandals experienced severe heatwave, and 98 mandals reported heatwave. Chagalamarri in the Nandyal recorded the highest daytime temperature of 45.90 C followed by Renigunta in Tirupati at 45.70 C, Khajipeta in YSR, Salur in Paravatipuram Manaym at 45.20 C, Gajapathinagaram in Vizianagaram and Kodumur in Kurnool at 44.80 C , Tadipatri in Anantapur at 44.40 C , Burju in Srikakulam and Macherla in Palnadu at 44.20 C , Dendulur in Eluru 44.10 C and Peddamandyam at 440 C.

YS Jagans Siddham 3.0 campaign starts today from Tadipatri

Anantapur: Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy will launch the next phase of his election campaign Siddham 3.0 with a public meeting at Tadipatri in Anantapur district on Sunday. YSRC leaders of Tadipatri are making elaborate arrangements for the public meeting in the faction-hit area, where two families have fought each other for an upper hand in the area. This time, sitting MLA Kethineni Pedda Reddy is contesting for the second time as YSRC candidate, while JC Asmith Reddy, son of former MLA and present municipal chairman of Tadipatri J.C. Prabhakar Reddy is fighting against Pedda Reddy on the TDP ticket. YSRC sources said CM Jagan will arrive at Tadipatri around 10 a.m. on Sunday and address a public meeting at the NTR Circle. District police have made elaborate security arrangements.

B. Tech Ravi says he is poorer than Jagan DC

Anantapur: Telugu Desam candidate from Pulivendula assembly constituency B. Tech Ravi has objected to Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy and YSRC candidate from Pulivendula repeatedly claiming that the present polls are a fight between the poor and the rich sections. The TD candidate pointed out that Jagan Mohan Reddys assets are about 750 crore as per his election affidavit. How can he repeatedly claim at every public meeting that he is poor, Ravi asked. The TD candidate claimed that comparatively, he is very poor, as his total assets are worth about 80 lakh. He called on voters to decide who is poor and rich before voting.

Cross-voting fear looms over MP candidates in Anantapur, Hindupur LS constituencies

ANANTAPUR: The ruling YSRC and opposition TDP-JSP-BJP alliance are facing a peculiar problem in Anantapur and Hindupur Lok Sabha constituencies of the undivided Anantapur district where anxiety over potential cross-voting looms over MP candidates. Amidst the campaign fervour, supporters of the MLA candidates are conspicuously rallying solely for their respective contenders, without endorsing any MP candidates. During campaigns across various Assembly segments, voters, too, have expressed reluctance to support MP candidates for various reasons. Interestingly, MLA candidates have refrained from refuting this stance and instead urging voters to back them while leaving their MP vote choice open-ended. Loyalists commit to voting solely for their partys MLA nominees, considering factors like caste, locality, and past performance when considering the MP candidate. Adding complexity to the electoral landscape, three out of the four MP contenders of YSRC and the alliance parties are non-locals. The incumbent Penukonda MLA and former minister M Shankar Narayana is YSRCs MP candidate from Anantapur, Ambica Lakshmi Narayana, who hails from Hindupur, represents the TDP. For Hindupur, Jolada Rashi Shantamma from Ballari in Karnataka, is the YSRC candidate, while former Penukonda MLA BK Parthasarathi represents the TDP. Shankar Narayana, hailing from Dharmavaram but victorious in Penukonda, faces opposition from a faction of party leaders in his constituency over allegation of mistreatment of party workers. Similarly, Ambica Lakshmi Narayana, considered an outsider due to his Hindupur origins, encounters resistance as he contests from Anantapur. Shantamma, also perceived as an outsider, has been fueling discontent against her candidature. As party leaders and their supporters seek votes solely for their MLA contenders, the silence regarding support for their partys MP candidates raises speculations of potential cross-voting. The non-local factor, coupled with local dynamics, hints at a complex electoral scenario in the two parliamentary constituencies. Resolving election issues in Apur dist A command control room has been established at the Anantapur Collectorate, while control rooms have been set up in all Assembly constituencies for the registration of election-related complaints Command Control Centre 18004258802 (OR) 08554-234122, 18004258803 (OR) 08554-239822, 18004258804 (OR) 08554-231722

Andhra Pradesh: Pupils with special needs pick computers over scribes

VIJAYAWADA : Persevering several obstacles, 11 visually impaired and two orthopedically impaired students stood tall in the SSC results. It is worth mentioning that these students undertook the examination without the assistance of a scribe, relying instead on specially designed computer software. All the students were trained on Computers at Rural Development Trust (RDT), Ananthapuram. Government Exams director D Devananda Reddy said that nearly 3,000 students with special needs appeared for the exam, of them around 1,000 students utilised the scribe facility. He affirmed their readiness to facilitate scribe-less exams by offering digital paper to any student with special needs. Among the top performers, Ramannagari Bhargavi from Tenegallu village of Anantapur, an orthopaedically impaired student, emerged as the highest scorer, securing an impressive 429 out of 500 with an overall percentage of 85.8% in this category. Bhargavis outstanding performance was marked by exemplary scores in each subject, with notable achievements in Telugu (87), English (90), Mathematics (83), Science (91), and Social Studies (78). Her consistent excellence underscores her dedication and academic prowess, earning her recognition as one of the top achievers in the examination. Following closely behind, Kuruba Deepika from Madapuram village in Sri Sathya Sai district, a visually challenged girl, showcased exceptional resilience by securing an impressive 415 marks (83%). In addition to Bhargavi and Deepika, several visually impaired students achieved remarkable success in the SSC exams. Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan Senior Advisor Ram Kamal emphasised that scribes cannot read the minds of visually impaired students, and relying on them may hinder students ability to secure future employment opportunities. He advocated for every student to transition from the conventional scribe system to computers. Visually challenged students Arava Ravi Eswar (387), Challa Nirmala (376) from Ramasagaram village of Sri Satya Sai district, Joharapuram Sainath (361) from Nagaruru of Kurnool district, Bestha Meghana (356) from Kuntimaddi village of Sri Satya Sai district, Gatlu Sravani (353), Vadde Naveen Kumar (352), Kattubadi Mallika(334) from Shabhaspuram village of Kurnool district, Nagarajugari Suma (319) from Kurnool district, Patan Madiha (300) from Kadiri village of Sri Satya Sai district and Sajjala Dileep (262) from Anantapur and Anubolu Guruswamy (274), an orthopaedically impaired, demonstrated commendable performance in the exams showcasing their unwavering commitment to academic excellence. Speaking to TNIE, Commissioner of School Education S Suresh Kumar expressed his satisfaction with the remarkable achievements of children with special needs, highlighting their perseverance, determination, and unwavering commitment to academic excellence. He emphasised that initiatives aimed at fostering self-confidence among these students are crucial and represent a significant step forward in encouraging and providing facilities to support their education. He assured that they would be encouraged to appear for Intermediate exams on computers.

Andhra Pradesh: Six Lok Sabha Seats Never Saw Female Contestant

Visakhapatnam: Since independence, no major political party in Andhra Pradesh has fielded women candidates for the Lok Sabha seats of Anantapur, Guntur, Hindupur, Machilipatnam, Nandyala and Ongole. No woman candidate ever won the polls from these constituencies. From Narasapur and Ongole, two women from lesser-known parties tried for the seats, but failed. Andhra Pradesh has 25 Lok Sabha seats. Four of these are reserved for SC (Scheduled Caste) and one for ST (Scheduled Tribe) candidates. The remaining 20 seats are unreserved. The Election Commissions data shows AP has an electorate of 3,99,84,868, with female voters outnumbering males at 2,02,21,455 and 1,97,59,489 respectively. Women voters have a significant presence in each constituency. However, this presence is not reflected in the Lok Sabha. No woman from Anantapur, Guntur, Hindupur, Machilipatnam, Nandyala and Ongole has ever been elected. Parliament represents the aspirations and concerns of its citizens. However, there have been instances of women candidates entering the fray in other constituencies. In Rajampet and Tirupati, the BJP and TD fielded women candidates, albeit only once. In 2014, Rajampet YSRC contestant PV Midhun Reddy was challenged by Daggupati Purandeswari, representing BJP. She secured 426990 votes but lost the battle. In 1996, TD gave Tirupatis Lok Sabha ticket to Gali Rajasree, who secured 292406 votes but was defeated by Nelavala Subrahmanyam of the Congress. In Narasapur, no major political party has given ticket to women since independence. However, Ganji Purnima, representing the Republican Party Of India (A), contested the polls there, got 865 votes and stood as the 14th runner-up. Similarly, for the Ongole Lok Sabha seat, Gogineni Bharati Devi, representing the SWA party, contested and secured 104703 votes but was defeated by P Ankineedu Prasada Rao of the Congress, who secured 284597 votes. Andhra Pradesh still faces challenges in ensuring adequate representation of women candidates in Lok Sabha elections. Efforts to promote gender equality and encourage womens participation remain crucial for a more balanced political landscape.

64 mandals in Andhra Pradesh likely to experience severe heatwave conditions today

VISAKHAPATNAM : Dry weather conditions persist in the State as severe heatwaves grip multiple mandals across various districts. On Saturday, 64 mandals, including three in Alluri Sitarama Raju, six in Anakapalli, two each in East Godavari and Eluru, one in Kakinada, 13 in Parvathipuram Manyam, 15 in Srikakulam, and 22 in Vizianagaram, are expected to experience severe heat waves, while 183 mandals are forecast to encounter heatwave conditions. The India Meteorological Departments Amaravati Centre reports that isolated places in Rayalaseema are likely to witness heatwaves on Saturday. Additionally, hot, humid weather is expected at isolated locations in North Coastal Andhra Pradesh (NCAP), Yanam, and South Coastal Andhra Pradesh (SCAP). Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph are also predicted in isolated parts of NCAP and Yanam. The heatwave conditions are expected to persist until April 30, with isolated places in Rayalaseema likely to experience heatwaves. Discomforting weather conditions are anticipated at isolated locations in NCAP, Yanam, and SCAP. On Friday, 41 mandals reported severe heatwaves, while 116 mandals recorded heatwave conditions. Nandyala registered the highest maximum temperature at 44.6 degrees Celsius, followed closely by Kurnool at 44, Anantapur at 43.4, Kadapa at 43.2, and Tirupati at 43.3 degrees Celsius. According to the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority, since April 1, four districtsAlluri Sitarama Raju, Nandyal, Parvathipuram Manyam, and Nellorehave reported the highest temperature of 45.8 degrees Celsius. Additionally, 26 other locations throughout the State have recorded temperatures exceeding 42 degrees Celsius.

Woman suffers cardiac arrest in a polling booth, doctor saves her

BENGALURU: A woman in her fifties, who suffered a cardiac arrest in a polling booth in the city on Friday, was saved by a doctor who was waiting in a queue there to exercise his franchise. The incident occurred at the government school in Jumbo Savari Dinne, JP Nagar, 8th Phase. The woman collapsed in front of Dr Ganesh Srinivasa Prasad in the booth (No 210) around 9am. Dr Prasad immediately resorted to Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and saved her life. Dr Prasad, 36, hails from Anantapur in Andhra Pradesh. He works as a nephrologist at Narayana Health Centre in Bommasandra. The woman collapsed while taking water from a can at the booth. I checked her pulse but did not feel it. She was gasping for breath and I immediately resorted to CPR till her condition improved, Dr Prasad told TNIE. Netizens praise doc who saved woman She would have lost her life had there been a delay in attending to her, Dr Prasad said. He said, Vasovagal Syncope could have triggered the cardiac arrest. Her heart had stopped beating when I checked. Many factors, including anxiety, heat stroke or even fear when injections are given can cause the condition. Dr Prasad studied MBBS in Andhra Pradesh and completed Doctorate in National Board (DrNB) Nephrology at Narayana Health Centre. He worked in Tumakuru for two years. He joined Narayana Health Centre two years ago. The incident went viral after the doctor posted the videos on X. Many responded to the posts by him and TNIE . Most of them lauded Dr Prasad and stressed the need for people to learn CPR.

Foolproof System of Delivering Schemes Helps Jagan Big Time

Anantapur : It is not just the direct benefit transfer (DBT) schemes paid out welfare money but also developing a foolproof system for their effective delivery at the beneficiaries doorstep, besides offering numerous other services through the village and ward secretariats, that has endeared Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy to the people. However, the narrowing down of the YSRC voter base to these beneficiaries is a cause of concern to the ruling party contestants from the two erstwhile Rayalaseema districts of Anantapur and Kurnool, which have a combined strength of 26 Assembly segments and four Lok Sabha seats. In the absence of any wave for or against the government, a keen contest is on cards in many of these seats. My mother waited for five years during Telugu Desam rule and never got pension. She used to make the rounds of government offices. After the change of government in 2019, she was granted pension within three months and availed it for a few months before she died with a sense of satisfaction, said Padma, owner of a roadside hotel. This summed up the success of saturation mode adopted by the YSRC government for the disbursal of old age pensions. This was against restricted release of pensions by the previous government, Padma added. While the men gathered at her hotel spoke ill of the taste of liquor they get these days, that too at an exorbitant price, and some of whom even condemned the arrest of Telugu Desam president N. Chandrababu Naidu at such an old age, another woman, a shopkeeper adjacent to the hotel, extended her wholehearted support to Jagananna. The reason, she said, pointing to her school-going daughter, was the payment of Rs 15,000 under Amma Vodi a scheme to discourage school drop-outs. The beneficiaries were happy over the volunteers delivering the pension amount at their doorstep which they said was helpful to the elderly and the differently-abled. Last month, old people suffered because they had to walk all the way to the offices to collect their pension, complained Kondappagari Krishna Reddy, resident of Bondireddypalli, once a faction-ridden village near Raptadu in Anantapur district. The village secretariats helped the ruling party enhance its image by seamlessly offering a whopping 545 state-related services and another 200 of the Central government. Earlier, we had to go all the way to mandal office and wait for days or months to get caste certificates or land records. Now if we apply through Mee Seva, volunteers are delivering even adangal and 1B certificates at the doorstep, said Obulayya, a farmer. But, the ruling party contestants were also wary of the party heavily depending on the beneficiaries and distancing itself from the others. We lost sections that solidly stood behind us, for instance, government employees. We no longer enjoy strong support among the OCs. We also could have more effectively countered the narrative built by the Opposition that Jagan did nothing except pressing the button to pass on the DBT amounts, said a contestant on condition of anonymity. Echoing the fears of the ruling party leaders, Sanjeevappa, a resident of Bukkarayasamudram near Anantapur, says he and his wife would definitely vote for Jagan Mohan Reddy but his daughter and son-in-law, private company employees, were unhappy over the state government ignoring development and in particular not succeeding in getting industries.

TD, YSRC Supporters Try to Storm Tadipatri ROs Office

ANANTAPUR: The TD and YSRC cadres tried to storm the Tadipatri returning officer (RO)s premises during the scrutiny of nominations on Friday. YSRCs team objected to spelling of the TD candidates name in the B. form vis-a-vis the one filed at the time of filing nominations. The ruling party team demanded that the candidature of JC Asmith Reddy be rejected. TD leader and Tadipatri municipal chairman J.C. Prabhakar Reddy raised objection over the nomination of the YSRC candidate, contending that the constituencys name has been spelt wrong. As the two groups started getting restive, police forces drove them away using lathis. The returning officer accepted the nominations of both the TD and YSRC. Devinenis nomination rejected Kadapa Lok Sabha returning officer has rejected the nomination of Devineni Shivashankar Reddy, an accused in former MP Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy murder case. Shivashankar Reddy had filed nomination as an independent candidate from Kadapa parliamentary constituency. The RO said Shivashankar Reddys nomination has been rejected as his affidavit is not as per norms of the Election Commission.

Doctor saves woman who suffered cardiac arrest while voting in Bengaluru

BENGALURU: A woman in her fifties turned out to be extremely lucky on Friday morning when she visited the government school at Jumbo Savari Dinne in JP Nagar 8th Phase to cast her vote in the Lok Sabha elections. She suffered a cardiac arrest, Dr Ganesh Srinivasa Prasad, who was also waiting in the queue at the booth to cast his vote, plunged into the rescue act by administering Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and saved her life. Dr Prasad (36), a native of Anantapur in Andhra Pradesh, works as a Nephrologist at Narayana Health Centre, Bommasandra. The woman was trying to take water from a can placed near the queue of voters. She suddenly felt dizzy and began to fall, but was caught by the doctor and another person in the queue. Dr. Prasad told TNIE, Upon checking her pulse, I observed it was very low. Her eyes rolled upwards, and her body exhibited no response, with gasping breaths. Acting swiftly, I initiated CPR, resulting in a notable improvement in her condition. Election duty personnel promptly provided her with juice, and an ambulance was summoned, arriving within five minutes to rush her to the hospital. We might have even lost her if there had been a delay he added. As I was waiting in queue....one lady had syncope and cardiac arrest in front of me There was no pulse and I started immediate CPR ... luckily she got ROSC within minutes #LokSabhaElections2024 @ECISVEEP @SpokespersonECI @Lolita_TNIE @chetanabelagere https://t.co/NFN5GVWaaR pic.twitter.com/azcH4Su2aD Dr Ganesh Srinivasa Prasad ( ) (@thisis_drgsp) April 26, 2024 Dr Prasad added, Vasovagal Syncope could have triggered the cardiac arrest. Her heart had stopped beating when I checked. Many factors, including anxiety, heat stroke or even sudden fear when injections are administered can cause the condition. The doctor tweeted the incident with accompanying videos and it went viral on X- social media platform. After the fulsome praise and the celebrity status, the Nephrologist returned to work at his hospital.

Seizures in Andhra Pradesh touch Rs 165.91 crore

VIJAYAWADA: After the announcement of the election schedule, Rs 165.91 crore worth cash, liquor, drugs, precious metals and other articles have been seized in the State, informed Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Mukesh Kumar Meena. In a release issued on Thursday, the CEO said effective vigil is being kept in the State to prevent illegal transportation of cash, liquor and other voter inducements. The State will go to polls on May 13. Continuous surveillance has resulted in seizure of Rs 165.91 crore worth cash, drugs, liquor, gold and silver and other articles, he added. MCC enforcement Rs 8.65 crore worth election inducements seized in 24 hours Rs 36.89 cr cash Rs 20.32 cr worth liquor Rs 2.87 cr worth drugs Rs 91.26 cr worth precious metals Total Rs 165.91 cr The highest seizure of election inducements worth Rs 30.66 cr were seized in Anantapur parliamentary constituency. The least seizure of election inducements worth Rs 1.15 cr was recorded in Narasapuram Lok Sabha segment.

Jagan has 30,000 cash in hand for family

ANANTAPUR : Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has in his affidavit filed along with his nomination papers mentioned that his family, including him, wife and two daughters have 30,000 in cash with them. The CM filed his nomination papers with the returning officer of the Pulivendula Assembly constituency in Kadapa district on Thursday. Jagan Mohan Reddy has mentioned that he has 7,000 cash, while wife Bharathi has 10,022 and elder daughter Harshini has 9,000 and second daughter Varsha Reddy has 6,987 with them. As per the affidavit, the family does not own vehicles on their name, except a bulletproof vehicle registered in the name of Jagan Mohan Reddy following the directive of the home ministry. Though the bullet-proof vehicle is on his name, it is not owned by him, the Chief Minister clarified. Among other details are Jagan Mohan Reddy not owning any gold or diamond jewellery. His wife Bharathi has 6,427.79 grams of gold and diamonds worth 5.29 crore, elder daughter has 4,187.19 grams of gold and diamonds worth of 4.43 crore and younger daughter has 3,457 grams of gold and diamonds worth of 4.46 crore, as per the market value. The CM has paid income tax of 4.65 crore, while Bharathi has under protest paid IT of 1.56 crore. His daughters have paid 10.85 lakh and 10.39 lakh as advance tax. Movable assets of Jagan Mohan Reddy are worth 483.08 crore, while those of Bharathi are 119.38 crore. Harshini has movable assets of 22.94 crore and offshore assets worth 1.31 crore. Varsha has movable assets of 22.39 crore and offshore assets of 1.54 crore. The Idupulapaya land owned by the family is 39.52 acres, whose present worth is 1.54 crore.

Cash, Items of Rs 165.91 Crore Seized in AP After Release of Election Schedule

Vijayawada: Chief Electoral Officer Mukesh Meena has said cash, liquor, drugs, precious metals, free bees and other items worth more than Rs 165.91 crore have been seized since the announcement of the election schedule in AP. He said that as the general elections are slated for May 13 in the state, a strong vigil has been kept on the illegal transportation of cash, liquor, drugs, precious metals etc that might be distributed by candidates or parties to attract voters. Through inter-state as well as other check posts in the state, more than 20 enforcement agencies such as police, excise, income tax, forest, ED, NCB, RPF, customs etc are on constant vigil against illegal transportation of cash and goods for election-related canvassing. Illegally transported assets worth Rs 8.65 crore have been seized in the last 24 hours alone. The highest amount of Rs 30.66 crore was seized in Anantapur LS constituency and the lowest amount of Rs 1.15 crore in Narsapuram LS. The total amount seized till date was Rs 36.89 crore in cash, 6,62,402.65 litres of liquor worth Rs 20.32 crore, 52,28,218.94 grams of drugs worth Rs 2.78 crore, 14,73,734.46 grams of precious metals worth Rs 91.26 crore, 4,88,557 items worth Rs 2.90 crore, Freebies (freebies) and other items worth Rs 11.74 crore were seized, he said. In Tirupati (SC), Rs 19.37 crore was seized; Kakinada Rs 18.18 crore, Elur Rs 13.77 crore, Visakhapatnam Rs 12.50 crore, Rajampet Rs 6.96 crore, Vijayawada Rs 6.75 crore, Nandyala Rs 5.63 crore, Kadapa Rs 5.62 crore, Narasaraopet Rs 4.61 crore, Vizianagaram Rs 4.18 crore, Bapatla (SC) Rs 3.99 crore, Anakapalli Rs 3.72 crore, Rajahmundry Rs 3.62 crore, Srikakulam Rs 3.61 crore, Araku (ST) Rs 3.37 crore, Nellore Rs 3 crore, Machilipatnam Rs 2.87 crore, Guntur Rs 2.75 crore, Kurnool Rs 2.45 crore, Chittoor (SC) Rs 1.94 crore, Ongole Rs 1.93 crore, Hindupur Rs 1.63 crore and in Amalapuram (SC) Rs 1.52 crore.

Developed Tadipatri constituency cries for attention

ANANTAPUR : Tadipatri Assembly constituency, which was once known for violence and faction feuds, has seen significant development over the past decade. However, the voters have often rued that the development has been limited to the urban areas. The constituency comprises Peddavadugur, Tadipatri, Yadiki and Peddapappur mandals. The mineral-rich region also holds the distinction of electing a legislator for six consecutive terms. Sons of JC Nagi Reddy, a prominent freedom fighter and politician from the region, had a stronghold over the constituency. JC Diwakar Reddy first contested the seat in 1985 on Congress ticket and retained it till 2009. While his brother JC Prabhakar Reddy won the seat in 2014 on a TDP ticket, Diwakar Reddy clinched the Anantapur MP seat. However, in 2019, both brothers stepped down giving way for their respective sons Ashmit Reddy and Pawan Kumar Reddy. They both lost. The TDP has once again fielded Ashmit Reddy from the Tadipatri segment, while the ruling YSRC has renominated sitting MLA Kethireddy Pedda Reddy. It may be pointed out that Kethireddy was once a close associate of JC Diwakar Reddy, but they both dont see eye to eye now. Under JC Prabhakar Reddy, Tadipatri Municipality emerged as a model municipality in the country. Residents of Tadipatri say there has been a sea change in the living standards in Tadipatri town. The constituency has high presence of limestone, which resulted in many cement companies such as Ultratech, Penna and Sagar setting up their units. Other minerals that can be found in the region are black stone and soap stone. While iron ore deposits are found in Peddapappur, granite is found in Peddavadugur. However, despite being mineral rich, the region is marred by water and unemployment crisis. Employment opportunities for locals are minimal as 900 of the total 1,200 granite factories and 2,000 black stone units shut shop. Nagaraju of Tadipatri said, Despite one single family holding power for so long, the constituencys problems remain unaddressed. Drinking water is an issue, there is rampant illegal sand mining. Trees are regularly chopped off and the garbage system is abysmal. Peddavadugur is dependent on agriculture. But due to lack of proper irrigation facilities, farmers are forced to bring water in tractors for their crops. They do not even get a good support price for their yield. Where is this so called development. For me it is not visible, Ramanjaneyulu, a farmer in Peddavaduguru, lamented. Of the 15 times that elections have been held in the Tadipatri Assembly constituency, Congress won 10 times, TDP twice, KMPP (Kisan Mazdoor Praja Party) once, YSRC once and an independent candidate once. The constituency has also produced several ministers. Challa Subbarayudu was minister in PV Narasimha Rao and Jalagam Vengala Raos cabinets, while Diwakar Reddy was minister in Marri Chenna Reddy, N Janardhan Reddy, Kotla Vijayabhaskar Reddy, YS Rajasekhara Reddys cabinets. He has also served a protem speaker once.

Palegars Faction Feud Turning Old Story in Seema Politics

Anantapur: The centuries-old faction rivalry in Palegar is largely a thing of the past today, with attempts being made by some leaders for compromises and deals with their enemies, so as to eschew violence at various levels in Rayalaseema region. They are following the footsteps of the leaders from faction-hit families, who kept their children away from such practices. Thousands of children with faction backgrounds have changed course, abhorred violence and are now employed as software engineers or are handling white collar jobs in respectable professions. This has prompted the elders too to keep themselves away from faction rivalry during the past decade. Even top leaders like Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy, Kethineni Suryaprathap Reddy, Paritala, Maddelacheruvu Suri, Ramsubba Reddy, Adinarayana Reddy, and the Katasani family shunned faction rivalry and succeeded in persuading their followers to not get involved in faction feud. This changed for the better the lives of hundreds of faction-hit families. Faction violence had its roots in medieval history after the chieftains (palegars) of various villages and forts became independent rulers since 1565. This was after the Talikota battle, when faction rivalries had polluted the political system in the region. Faction leaders turned themselves into political leaders to outwit their rivals. Compromise deals and an urge on the part of some faction leaders to work in the same party along with rival leaders eventually led to a decline in faction feud even in the villages where the rivalries were often hard-edged. Top-level leaders realised that faction feud must be stopped at some level through compromise and this also involved, say, pardoning a rival who killed ones family members. For instance, former chief minister YS Rajasekhar Reddy never encouraged his aides to target those who had brutally killed his father, YS Raja Reddy, two decades ago. Recently, Sathish Reddy, TD leader from Pulivendula, who faced allegations in the case, joined the YSRC in the presence of YS Jagan Mohan Reddy at Pulivendula. The wheel has turned full circle. Jammalamadugu, a hard-core faction-hit area in Kadapa district, is an example of a compromise deal between rival faction leaders. The two and half decades-long rivalry between the families of former minister P Siva Reddy and his adversary Devagudi Sankar Reddy had spawned many violent incidents. P Ramasubba Reddy, a TD leader, had been convicted in a double-murder case during the Congress rule. He was an active leader of the YSRC. Former minister Adinaryana Reddy joined the TD but he is now contesting as the BJP candidate in Jammalamadugu. Kapatralla, a prominent faction village in Kurnool district, was adopted by the police some time ago. It yielded results and faction groups were being weaned away from rivalries. They are now concentrating their energies on the regions development. Dharmavaram MLA, K Venkatrami Reddy, an engineering graduate, had entered politics after his father Sureedu was hacked by rivals at Tadipathri. His uncle K Pedda Reddy, sitting MLA from Tadipathri, who was also maintaining a distance from faction rivalry, said the family had suffered a lot with faction feud in the past, and we will not encourage anyone to continue with such a mindset. The faction feuds in the region had led to the introduction of land mines, TV bombs, car bombs, ice cream bombs and high-end weapons like Ak-47 along with the traditional hunting sickles and crude bombs in the past four decades after such rivalries took on a political colour. The political links were flimsy in a majority of the cases. Factionists developed themselves as constituency level leaders and were elected as MLAs and MPs in course of time. Records say that at least 2000 men from the Congress, TD and other parties had been killed in the last four decades in Rayalaseema region. Analysts say faction culture was majorly suppressed for a decade and such instances are confined to only a few areas now. The elders, mostly Reddys, Kammas and Boyas, woke up to the consequences of faction rivalry and succeeded in providing quality education to their children. Most of them completed engineering graduation and settled in the software industry in Bengaluru or Hyderabad during the past decade. The victims are voluntarily engaging in the spread of awareness against faction fued in the villages. We are conducting such campaigns at all faction-hit villages, stated Appireddy Harinath Reddy, writer. Four children from Tagarakunta Prabhakars faction-hit family from Kanganipalle, completed education and got employment as software engineers. They are away from such activities of the past.

Vontimitta Bathed in Divine Fervour as Wedding of Rama and Sita Captivates Thousands

Anantapur: Vontimitta reverberated with devotional energy on Monday evening as devotees thronged the temple centre to witness the wedding of Lord Sri Kodandarama Swamy and Goddess Sita. The Kalyana Vedika, transformed into a visual spectacle, overflowed with the vibrant colours and fragrance of four tonnes of flowers. Blue orchids, red anthurium, hydrangeas, and a myriad of other exotic blooms, alongside 30,000 cut flowers, created a breathtaking backdrop for the ceremony. The meticulous work of 200 florists, including a team from the TTD gardens and specialists from Hyderabad, culminated in a stage that mirrored a heavenly abode. Traditional touches like paddy grains, garlands, mangoes, coconut flowers, and banana leaves further accentuated the cultural significance of the event. The sheer number of devotees was a testament to the deep devotion within the community. Every inch of the galleries was filled, and the entire temple complex resonated with the unifying chant of Jai Sri Ram. The sacred ceremony, adhering to the tenets of Pancharatra Agama, commenced at 6:30 pm with Bhagavat Vignapanam and culminated by 8:30 pm. A series of rituals, including Anugna, Sankalpam, and Punyahavachanam, were performed under the guidance of chief priest Rajesh Bhattar. The union unfolded with Raksha Bandhanam, Yagnopaveeth Dharana, Kanyavaranam, and Madhuparkarchanam. Following these rituals, the priests meticulously performed Kanyadanam, reciting the ancestral lineages of both the bride and groom. The chanting of Vedic hymns filled the air as Mangalyasutra Pooja, Mangalyasutra Dharana, and Akshataropanam were carried out with utmost devotion. Nivedana, Veda Swasti, and Mahada Aseervachanam marked the joyous conclusion of the fete. Adding a special touch, the 13 jewels presented to Vontimitta Kodanda Rama by the TTD were displayed and their significance explained by the priests. The traditional Edurukolu, where the bride and groom face each other on separate platforms (Tiruchis), further enriched the ceremony. Every devotee received a Talambralu, Laddus, Kankanams, and Akshatalu kit. Following the wedding, Pulihora and Sweet Pongali prasadam were distributed at designated food counters. Sectoral officers, gallery staff, Srivari Sevaks, and Scouts ensured a smooth and hassle-free distribution process. The ceremony was graced by dignitaries including Special CS Karikalavalavan, Special CS S.S. Ravat, collector Vijayaramaraju, Upalokayukta Judge Justice Rajani, District Judge Justice Sridevi, SP Siddharth Kaushal, TTD EO A.V. Dharma Reddy, JEOs Goutami and Veerabrahmam, Ministers Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy and R.K. Roja, and several other prominent leaders.

Tension in Madakasira, Rebel Candidate Files Nomination

Anantapur: A tense situation developed at Madakasira where TD cadres supporting the rebel candidate attacked vehicles of the Lok Sabha candidate BK Parthasarathi, Madakasira assembly candidate MS Raju and others on Monday. They were expressing their anger at the party high command over candidate selections. Dr Sunil Kumar, who was formerly announced as the party candidate by Nara Chandrababu Naidu and Nara Lokesh had filed one set of nominations as TD candidate three days ago. He received a shock when Naidu changed the candidate at the last minute and issued B-Form to the partys SC cell president MS Raju. This irritated Kumars supporters in the party. A major group of TD workers and leaders extended their support to Sunil Kumar. He took out a huge procession on Monday to file a second set of nominations as the TD rebel candidate. The rally of Sunil Kumar created a sensation in the town. TD cadres were seen beating the faces of Chandrababu and Lokesh on flexi boards with their slippers. They also set ablaze a few flexis and banners by shouting slogans against the party high command. The rebels gave an ultimatum to Naidu against fielding the non-local candidate. The vehicles of TDs Hindupur Lok Sabha candidate Parthasarathi and Madakasira candidate Raju were coming from the opposite side. A tense situation arose. Angry TD cadres damaged these vehicles and shouted at the party candidates to go back. Sunil Kumar filed his nominations as a rebel candidate and told the media, TD chief Chandrababu Naidu should realise that he hurt the sentiments of the Madakasira people. We are hoping that Naidu would change decision by respecting out sentiments and sense of self-respect. If not, the people are ready to teach a lesson to Naidu by giving a big electoral victory to me, he claimed. TD cadres lamented that the Madakasira constituency was to have an easy win for the TD but the change of candidate by Naidu turned matters upside down. This might help Congress candidate Dr Sudhakar, who was a former MLA and has strong links with all the villages and enjoys the support of AICC member N Raghuveera Reddy.

Police intensify surveillance at border check-posts in Anantapur

AICC Announces Candidates for Nine MP Seats in Andhra Pradesh

Vijayawada: AICC has in its latest list on Sunday announced the names of Congress candidates who will be contesting from nine Lok Sabha constituencies in Andhra Pradesh. AICC general secretary K.C. Venugopal released the list for AP as well as Jharkhand states. The constituencies and names of Congress candidates are Srikakulam Dr. Pedada Parameswara Rao, Vizianagaram Bobbili Srinu, Amalapuram-SC Janga Goutham, Machilipatnam Gollu Krishna, Vijayawada Valluru Bhargav, Ongole Eda Sudhakara Reddy, Nandyal Jangiti Lakshmi Narasimha Yadav, Anantapur Malikarjun Vajjala, and Hindupur B.A. Samad Shaheen.

Heat Conditions in AP Continue Despite Rains

Visakhapatnam: Heat conditions are continuing in Rayalaseema and coastal Andhra Pradesh despite the light rains that lashed the state during the last 24 hours. Several locations in Rayalaseema recorded above 42C on Sunday, though many parts of the state had overcast skies but no significant rain. IMA Amaravati senior scientist Dr. S. Karuna Sagar said Kurnool and Tirupati stations recorded 42.6C, the highest temperature in the state, followed by Kadapa 42.5C, Jangamaheswarapuram 42.5C, Nandigama 42.4C, Nandyal 42.2C, Anantapur 42C, Nellore 41.7C, Gannavaram 41.6C and Amaravati 41C. People of Kurnool and a few other places in Rayalaseema experienced heatwave conditions on Sunday, while the remaining parts of the state remained hot and humid. From Monday to April 25, IMD has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds with a speed of 4050 kmph likely at isolated places over north coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam. Hot, humid, and uncomfortable weather conditions will prevail over coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema during the same period. Thundershowers accompanied by lightning lashed a few parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema region on Saturday night. People in Paderu of ASR district got relief from hot weather conditions after Paderu recorded one cm of rainfall.

Congress announces candidates for 9 more Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh

Congress announces candidates for 9 more Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh The Congress party on Sunday announced the names of candidates for nine more Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh for the upcoming elections. The Central Election Committee of the party announced candidates for Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Amalapuram (SC), Machilipatnam, Vijayawada, Ongole, Nandyala, Anantapur and Hindupur constituencies. According to an All India Congress Committee (AICC) press release, Jagna Goutham will contest from Amalapuram (SC), Valluru Bhargav (Vijayawada) and B A Samad Shaheen (Hindupur), among others. The Communist Party of India (CPI), Congress and CPI (M) are INDIA alliance partners in Andhra Pradesh. Congress has announced the names of candidates for 126 Assembly and 20 Lok Sabha seats. The grand old party has struck a seat-sharing deal with the CPM and CPI. The left parties are set to contest in one Lok Sabha and eight Assembly seats each. Elections for the 175-member Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh are scheduled on May 13 and the counting of votes is slated for June 4.

All set for Kalyanotsavam of Lord Kodandarama Swamy and Goddess Sitha

Anantapur: Elaborate arrangements were made for the Kalyanotsavam of Lord Kodandarama Swamy and Goddess Sitha at Vontimitta in Kadapa district, it being a state-sponsored event, on Monday. As part of the annual Srirama Navami Brahmotsavalu at Vontimitta, the celestial marriage of lord will be held in full moon light at night, unlike in other temples including at Bhadrachalam. Traffic will be diverted at Vontimitta and the High Way road. Only vehicles carrying the devotees would be allowed in on Monday. Kadapa SP Siddarth Kausal said traffic diversion will be effective from 6am till the completion of celestial marriage at night. Vehicles from Kadapa to Tirupati will be diverted from Alamkhanpalle Junction via Utukur Circle and Rayachoti towards Tirupati. Vehicles coming from Tirupati towards Kadapa will be diverted from Renigunta through Rayachoti, instead of Vontimitta road. Heavy vehicles from Rajampet will be diverted through Rayachoti and motorcycles route will be diverted via Salabad, Ibrahimpet and Madhavaram to avoid traffic problems at Vontimitta temple. The SP said a total of 15 parking places were set up in and around the Vontimitta temple premises for the use of devotees. About five special parking places were set up near Salabad while 10 plots were readied for parking in the places around the venue of Kalyanotsavam. TTD has been conducting the annual brahmotsavalu since 2015 -- after state bifurcation. Vontmitta was recognised as the official venue for the celestial marriage of Lord Srirama after Bhadrachalam was made a part of Telangana. As huge crowds are expected for the celestial marriage of the Lord, TTD and Kadapa district administration have made the necessary arrangements. TTD and state government officials will present traditional silk clothes and talambralu to the lord during the fete.

TD cadres of Madakasira Up in Arms over Rajus Nomination

Anantapur: Telugu Desam high commands sudden decision on Sunday to issue its B form for Madakasira to former MRPS leader and TD SC cell president M.S. Raju has made party cadres of the constituency reserved for scheduled castes see red. TDP leadership had two months ago announced that Dr. Sunil Kumar, a medical doctor by profession, will be its candidate from the Madakasira SC seat. Consequently, he had started campaigning in the constituency 60 days ago. He went on to file a set of nomination papers on April 18. He planned to file the second set of papers along with the party B-form on Monday. Significantly, Dr. Sunil Kumar candidature had been announced by TDP chief N. Chandrababu Naidu as well as Lokesh during their campaigning in Madakasira area. However, the party high command announced on Sunday a change in candidate from the constituency and issued the B form to TD SC cell president Raju, a non-local as far as Madakasira is concerned. Protests with the Telugu Desam started almost the moment the choice of candidate became public. TD cadres from Madakasira held a meeting at Gudibanda and started criticising Chandrababu Naidu and Lokesh for going back on their word. The went on to burn flexi posters of the two top leaders, accusing them of selling the ticket. We have been with the Telugu Desam Party since 1983. We had always been ready to drink even poison if Naidu had offered it to us for a worthy cause, observed a senior leader from Amarapuram. He made it clear that party workers will not at all support a non-local candidate with a history of corruption. Another leader from Gudibanda said Dr. Sunil Kumar had spent a huge amount of money in campaigning on behalf of the Telugu Desam Party. In addition, for the past five years, he has been protecting party cadres from the onslaught of the ruling YSRC leaders, the leader pointed out. The assembled TD leaders declared that Dr. Sunil Kumar will file his nomination as an independent candidate from the Madakasira SC constituency after leading a huge procession on Monday. Analysts say the TD high command has unnecessarily caused a massive damage to itself by its hasty decision of insulting a young doctor. They pointed out that the Congress candidate from the constituency is Dr. Sudhakar, also a medico, who has the backing of AICC member N. Raghuveera Reddy. What could have been a win for TDP is now going to help parties that the NDA alliance is opposing at the state and national levels, the analysts remarked.

Tragic Deaths in Anantapur District

Anantapur: A woman and her three children were found deceased in Galiveedu mandal of Annamayya district following a domestic dispute. The deceased have been identified as Vemula Nagamani, 30, and her children Navyasri, 10, Dinesh, 6, and Jahnavi, 3. Police are investigating the incident. According to initial reports, there was a disagreement between Nagamani and her husband, Vemula Vikram, on Friday evening. The cause of the deaths is under investigation.

Anantapur police rescue B.Tech student from suicide bid

Hyderabad IT employees, TDP cadres celebrate Naidus 74th birthday

Amaravati: Telugu Desam Party (TDP) national President N. Chandrababu Naidu had a grand birthday celebration by party cadres across the state, as he turned 74 on Saturday. The former Chief Minister, who is campaigning for next months elections in Anantapur district, celebrated his birthday in the Rayadurg constituency. He cut a cake along with 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 .

TDP MLA Balayya files nomination from Hindupur

Anantapur: Aiming for a hat-trick win from Hindupur constituency, film star and sitting MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna of Telugu Desam filed his nomination from the Hindupur Assembly segment on Friday. Balakrishna is aiming for a victory for the third consecutive time from Hindupur, a home turf of TD founder and late Chief Minister N.T. Rama Rao's family since 1985. Before filing his nomination, Balakrishna offered pooja at the historic Lord Hanuman temple at Sugur, on the outskirts of the Hindupur town. Accompanied by Hindupur Lok Sabha TD candidate B.K. Parthasarathi, he then proceeded to tahasildar office with a huge rally. Party leaders and cadres from Hindupur area gathered in large numbers. Meanwhile, a total of 18 nominations were received in seven Assembly segments of Satya Sai district on Friday. Madakasira TD candidate Sunil Kumar, Kadiri YSRC candidate Maqbul, TD candidate Kandikunta Prasad, Rapthadu YSRC candidate T Prakash Reddy and others filed their nominations. In Kadapa district, sitting MP YS Avinash Reddy filed his nomination papers for Kadapa Lok Sabha segment at Kadapa collectorate on Friday. A total of 14 nominations received from Kadapa district.

Naidu Familys Riches Rise by 40 per Cent in Five Years, Cross Rs 900 Crore

Tirupati: An affidavit submitted to the Election Commission on Friday showed a major rise in the assets of Telugu Desam chief Nara Chandrababu Naidu and his wife Nara Bhuvaneswari. The couple's combined assets rose by around 40 per cent - from Rs 668.57 crore in 2019 to Rs 931.83 crore in 2024. The revelation came as Bhuvaneswari filed her husband's nomination papers for Kuppam Assembly constituency in Chittoor district on Friday. According to the affidavit, the Telugu Desam chiefs movable assets declined to Rs 4.80 lakh from Rs 47.38 lakh, while his wife's movable assets swelled from Rs 573.84 crore in 2019 to Rs 810.37 crore in 2024. Their immovable asset holdings witnessed an equally meteoric rise - from Rs 19.96 crore and RS 74.29 crore in 2019 to RS 36.31 crore and Rs 85.10 crore now. The former CM's immovable riches include non-agricultural land in Kuppam, residential buildings in Hyderabad and his native Naravaripalle. The value of these holdings surged by Rs 16.35 crore, reaching Rs 36.31 crore now from Rs 19.96 crore in 2019. Naidu owns a 1994 Ambassador car valued at Rs 2.22 lakh. However, it is Bhuvaneswari who emerged wealthier, with her personal assets surging from Rs 648.13 crore in 2019 to Rs 895.47 crore in 2024 - a staggering increase of Rs 247.34 crore. She currently holds 2.26 crore shares of Heritage Foods worth Rs 763.93 crore, up from 1.06 crore shares valued at Rs 545.76 crore five years ago. Additionally, she possesses around 41.5 kg of silver and 3.4 kg of gold bullion. The couple's liabilities have decreased slightly, with Naidu currently showing Rs 3.48 crore as a joint housing loan with his son - down from Rs 5.24 crore in 2019. Bhuvaneswari's liabilities dipped to Rs 6.83 crore from Rs 10.07 crore previously. Meanwhile, Naidu was booked in FIR No.79/2023 and 56/2023 by Mudiveedu and Mulakalacheruvu police citing charges like conspiring and instigating TD cadres to attack YSRC activists and promoting enmity. He also faces FIR No.43/2023 and 41/2023 from Anaparthi and Bikkavolu police for disobeying orders and threatening officials to hold public gatherings. The former chief minister faces CID FIR No. 18/2023 and 19/2023 over irregularities in fixing fees, granting distilleries/brands, and free sand policy causing losses to the state exchequer. CID Amaravati also booked him for irregularities in AP capital master plan and inner ring road alignment to benefit some people. CID Mangalagiri filed FIR No. 24/2021 against Naidu for violating e-procurement rules by awarding contracts to Tera Software through AP FiberNet. He also faces FIR No. 15/2020 for wrongfully benefiting relatives/associates by misusing official position. The Arundalpet (FIR 230/2021) and Suryaraopet (FIR 94/2021) police stations booked Naidu for remarks on COVID-19 second wave and vaccine shortage causing fear and mental stress among the people. Narasaraopet II Town (FIR 88/2021) and Kurnool I Town (FIR 80/2021) police registered cases over his comments on 440K variant spread. Kalyandurg police in Anantapur booked him in FIR 75/2022 over his post on platform X on a girl's death during a minister's roadshow. Yerpedu, Vizag Airport, and Patamata police also booked him in preventive arrest cases. * Nara Chandrababu Naidu - Movable Assets: Rs 4,80,438 (2024); Rs 47,38,067 (2019) - Immovable Assets: Rs 36,31,00,481 (2024): Rs 19,96,95,474 (2019) - Liabilities: Rs 3,48,81,937 (2024); Rs 5,24,96,605 (2019) * Nara Bhuvaneswari - Movable Assets: Rs 810,37,08,883; Rs 573,84,17,434 (2019) - Immovable Assets: Rs 85,10,41,128 (2024); Rs 74,29,00,000 (2019) - Liabilities: Rs 6,83,19,895 (2024); Rs10,07,98,182 (2019)

Govt failed to complete irrigation projects in Rayalaseema, says Naidu

Kurnool, Anantapur: Telugu Desam chief Nara Chandrababu Naidu has accused Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy of failure to complete any irrigation project in Rayalaseema, despite his big promises. Naidu criticised the CM's style of governance, labeling him the 'J-Gun Reddy' for his alleged acts of mismanagement. Despite winning power, Jagan Mohan Reddy is allegedly dismantling systems and neglecting the poor by not settling the pending Aarogyasri bills. If elected, I pledge to clear all pending bills for sarpanchs and allocate funds for all schemes, Naidu said while addressing the public during TDs Prajagalam in Alur on Friday. The TD chief highlighted the state's mounting debt of Rs 13 lakh crore and lamented the irregular salary payments. He assured the people he would to steer the state towards development with central governments cooperation and raise the lifestyles of all. Naidu affirmed the Telugu Desam's legacy of empowering individuals from the middle and lower-middle classes and assured the Madasi Kuruba community of Scheduled Tribe status. He emphasised that the upcoming elections were crucial in shaping the people's future. The former CM urged voters to keep Jagan Mohan Reddy out of the state for the next five years by voting the TD to power. The alliance's goal is to develop the state and support the youth during challenging times, with assistance from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He promised to issue the Mega DSC notification soon after assuring power. Naidu explained the importance of minority support for the alliance, and affirmed the Telugu Desam's commitment to their progress. He encouraged village and ward volunteers to unite with the Telugu Desam, promising them a bright future and a monthly payment of `10,000 upon TD assuming power. Local LS candidate B. Nagaraju, Assembly candidate B. Veerabhadra Gowd, TD parliament segment in-charge P. Thikka Reddy and others attended the event. At the road show in Kanekal of Rayadurg Assembly segment in Anantapur district, Naidu made it clear that the TD and its allies BJP and JS - are never against Muslims. The YSRC and its media were passing critical comments against TD and are branding the party as anti-Muslim, he said. The YSRC did nothing for welfare of Muslims, BCs and other sections for the past few years, Naidu alleged. TD candidate Kalava Sreenivasulu and several other leaders were present. Naidu was staying in Rayadurg segment on Friday night.

Dynasties: Children of Senior Politicians Testing Luck in AP Elections

Vijayawada: More than 30 political heirs are testing their fortunes in the 2024 polls under the banner of various parties in Andhra Pradesh. Leading the pack are Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, Nara Lokesh and Daggubati Purandeswari. They span parties like the YSRC, Telugu Desam, Congress, Jana Sena and BJP. Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy continuing the legacy of his father Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy, his uncle Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy and his mother Y.S. Vijayalakshmi who won the Pulivendula MLA seat, is contesting from Pulivendula for the third time. TD chief Chandrababu's son Nara Lokesh entered the ring once again in Mangalagiri of Guntur district. Lokesh lost to YSRC candidate Alla Ramakrishna Reddy in the last election. Political heiress Murugudu Lavanya, daughter of former MLA Kandru Kamala and daughter-in-law of former MLA Murugudu Hanumantha Rao, is contesting the polls on behalf of YSRC against Lokesh. Sirisha, daughter of former MLA Gauthu Shyamsundara Shivaji, is contesting under the TD banner from Palasa in Srikakulam district. In Rajam, former TD MLA Tale Bhadraiah's son Dr Rajesh is making his political debut on behalf of YSRC. Former Union Minister Pusapati Ashok Gajapathiraju's daughter Aditi is contesting on behalf of TD in Vizianagaram, which was earlier won by Ashok twice and one time by Vijayarama Gajapathi. JC Asmit Reddy, son of former MLA JC Prabhakar Reddy, is contesting on behalf of TD in Tadipatri of Anantapur district, a seat that was won by Prabhakar Reddy one time and JC Diwakar Reddy six times. Tenali has two political successors in the ring. Former chief minister Nadendla Bhaskara Rao's son Nadendla Manohar is contesting on behalf of the Jana Sena. Annabatuni Sivakumar, son of former minister Annabatuni Satyanarayana, is contesting for the YSRC. Manohar won the Tenali seat twice and his father Bhaskar Rao one time. Similarly, Siva Kumar won the seat in the 2019 elections and his father Satyanarayana won this seat two times. Two-times Guntur East MLA Md Mustafa has pressed his daughter Noori Fathima into the poll fray. Putta Pratap Reddy, son of former MLA Putta Narasimha Reddy is contesting the elections from Kamalapuram, Kadapa district. Ravindranath Reddy, uncle of chief minister Jagan Reddy, is contesting here on behalf of YSRC. In Pedana of Krishna district, former minister Kagita Venkata Rao's son Krishnaprasad is contesting as TD nominee. Uppala Ramu, son of YSRC's late senior leader Uppala Ram Prasad, is in the fray on behalf of YSRC. In Machilipatnam, MLA Perni Nani's son Perni Kittu is contesting on behalf of the YSRC, while ex-minister Nadakuditi Narasimha Rao's son-in-law and ex-minister Kollu Ravindra is contesting from TD. Varla Kumar Raja, son of TD senior leader Varla Ramaiah, is contesting the Pamarru MLA seat. Yanamala Ramakrishnadu's daughter Yanamala Divya is contesting in Tuni on a TD ticket in the Eluru parliamentary constituency. Minister Karumuri Nageswara Raos son Sunil is contesting the polls from the YSRC and TD leader Putta Sudhakar Yadav's son Putta Mahesh is in Eluru LS fray. Sudhakar Yadav is contesting from Maidukuru. In Kurnool, former MP TG Venkatesh's son TG Bharat is the TD nominee. Former deputy CM KE Krishnamurthy's son KE Shyambabu is contesting from TD in Pattikonda. Former MP Mekapati Rajamohan Reddy's son Mekapati Vikram Reddy is contesting from YSRC in Atmakur. Bojjala Sudhir Reddy, son of former minister Bojjala Gopalakrishna Reddy, is in the fray in Srikalahasti. Mohit Reddy, son of current YSRC MLA Chevireddy Bhaskara Reddy, is in the field in Chandragiri. In Tirupati, Bhumana Abhinay Reddy, son of current MLA Bhumana Karunakar Reddy, is fighting the polls.

Lok Sabha Polls: 20 File Nominations in Kadapa and Anantapur

Anantapur: At least 20 nominations were filed by candidates of political parties in Kadapa and Anantapur districts on the first day on Thursday. Among them, Kadapa Lok Sabha candidates of the YSRC, Mithun Reddy, TD candidate C Bhupesh Reddy, Jammalamadugu BJP candidate Adinarayana Reddy, Mydukur YSRC candidate Raghurami Reddy, Uravakonda TD candidate Payyavula Kesav, Anantapur urban YSRC candidate Ananta Venkatrami Reddy and several independents and other parties filed their nominations on Thursday. As candidates felt this was an auspicious day, a majority of them filed their nominations though their spouses and family members and they are planning to file another set of nominations alongside a huge rally on other days. Sources said the first nomination was filed in the state in the name of Uravakonda assembly TD candidate Payyavula Kesav by his wife at the Tahasildar office of Uravakonda in the district.

Tension flares in Anantapur after clash between YSRCP, TDP cadres

Relief From Heat Wave Forecast for AP

VISAKHAPATNAM : Thunderstorms lashed Anantapur and surrounding areas on Thursday, giving a temporary respite from the heat wave, which had been tormenting people of the state for the past three days. According to an IMD Amaravati report issued on Thursday, thunderstorms accompanied with lightning and gusty winds with speed of 3040 kmph are likely at isolated places over north coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, south coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema. Hot, humid and uncomfortable weather is also likely in these areas till April 22. As per the IMD, hot conditions will continue to prevail in the state. But the departure from maximum temperature will be just one or two degrees Celsius. On Thursday, Nandyal recorded the highest temperature of 44. 7 degrees Celsius, with departure of 4.2 degrees Celsius, followed by Anantapur 42.7 degrees with departure of 3.2 degrees, Kurnool 44.6 with departure of 3.9 degrees, Tirupati 42.8 degrees with departure of 3.6 degrees and Nandigam 42.2 degrees Celsius with a departure of 3.2 degrees.

APCC Chief targets Naidu and CM for not completing HNSS works in combined Anantapur district

Sharmila criticizes Naidu, Jagan for HNSS project delay, unfulfilled promises, lack of industrial growth, urges support for Congress. Viveka's daughter campaigns for Sharmila in Pulivendula, seeking votes against YSRCP candidates linked to her father's murder.

Kodandarama Brahmotsavam Starts with Dhwajarohanam at Vontimitta

Anantapur : The annual Brahmotsavam started on a grand scale at the ancient Sri Kodanda Ramalayam in Vontimitta on Wednesday with the traditional Dwajarohanam ceremony. Amid priests chanting the sacred Pancharatra Agama Vedic mantras, the Dhwajapatam bearing the emblem of Lord Garuda got hoisted atop the golden flag post inside the Ramalayam during the sacred Mithuna Lagnam time. Priests through their melodious renditions of Ragas and Talas invoked various deities, including Asta Dikpalakas, Vishwaksena and Panchabhutas, to grace the religious event. Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) joint executive officer V. Veerabrahmam said elaborate arrangements have been made for offering Annaprasadam, buttermilk and water to devotees in coordination with the district administration. Veerabrahmam explained that TTD will serve delicious breakfast prasadam at 7 a.m., followed by a full meal with rice, sambar, rasam, buttermilk, curry and sweet pongal from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The meal will be served again from 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. German sheds and coolers have been arranged on the premises to protect devotees from the scorching sun. Arrangements are underway for the celestial Sita Rama Kalyanam on April 22 between 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Executive engineer Krishna Reddy, deputy executive officers Natesh Babu and Siva Prasad, and other officials, archakas and devotees were present.

Mercury in AP Continues to Rise, Touches 43.5 Degrees Celsius in Kurnool

Anantapur: Andhra Pradesh is on the boil again with mercury levels rising on Wednesday and touching 44 degrees Celsius in Nandyal district, followed by 43.5 in Kurnool and 43.44 degrees Celsius in Anantapur district. Many temperature gauges across the state have crossed the 42 degrees Celsius mark. Temperatures, which had come down a couple of days ago, have started rising again by an average four degrees above the normal at several points in the state, particularly in the Rayalaseema region. Tarimela in Singanamala mandal in Anantapur district recorded 43.44 degrees Celsius. Tadipatri registered 43 degrees, official sources said. Jangamaheswarapuram recorded 43.2 degrees Celsius and Kadapa 42.2 degrees. Mercury levels had touched 45 degrees last week in Anantapur and Kurnool districts. However, they fell to 39 degrees three days ago. Elsewhere in AP, Narasapur area recorded 34.9 degrees Celsius while Vizag recorded 35.2 degrees; these being the lowest temperatures recorded on Wednesday. Scientists say the failure of the previous South West Monsoon has resulted in high mercury levels in the Rayalaseema region.

Kadapa MP Avinash Defends Self in Vivekas Murder

Anantapur: Kadapa MP Y.S. Avinash Reddy on Tuesday made it clear that he is not involved in any criminal activity related to the murder of former MP Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy. I rushed to the spot only after receiving a phone call from Sivaprakash Reddy, brother-in-law of Vivekananda Reddy, he underlined. Addressing a press conference in Kadapa, Avinash said he had remained silent during the past few days even though APCC president Y.S. Sharmila and Dr. N. Sunitha, daughter of Vivekananda, kept targeting him. He maintained that he is now talking about the case, as evidence is being fabricated against him. The MP pointed out that Vivekananda Reddy had campaigned for him a day before he had been murdered. He disclosed that the murdered former MP had wanted to do justice for his second family by selling his properties diamonds and immovable assets. He made it clear that he has faith in the judiciary and will come out clean, as he has no role in the case at any level.

Andhra: Speeding Car Hits Biker, Travels 18 Km With Rider's Body on Roof In Anantapur

The driver of the car continued for approximately 18 kilometres without stopping, eventually coming to a halt at Hanimireddypalli before fleeing the scene

Seven-year-old Rescued After Getting Stuck Between Walls

Anantapur: A swift response from Tadipatri rural police and the fire department saved a seven-year-old girl, who was trapped between walls in in Avula Thippapalli village of Anantapur district on Monday. Avanthika, playing with friends, got stuck in a narrow gap between two houses, reportedly due to construction constraints related to vastu. Villagers alerted authorities after they were unable to free her themselves. The Tadipatri rural circle inspector, Laksmikantha Reddy, along with fire department inspector Mohan Babu and their teams, rushed to the scene upon receiving the call. Initial attempts to extricate Avanthika proved unsuccessful. Faced with this challenge, the rescue teams made the difficult decision to break a small section of a nearby wall. Thankfully, this approach proved successful, and Avanthika was safely pulled out from the gap. Medical personnel provided immediate care to Avanthika before reuniting her with her relieved parents, Bhagya Lakshmi and Nagaraju. Villagers expressed their appreciation for the swift and decisive actions of the police and fire department personnel. Anantapur district SP Amith Bardar commended the rescue teams for their professionalism and dedication in freeing Avanthika's safely.

Vontimitta Brahmotsavams begin on April 16 with more preparations

Anantapur: The stage is set for the grand Sri Rama Navami Brahmotsavam celebrations at the Lord Kodandarama Swamy temple in Vontimitta, commencing Tuesday. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has pulled out all the stops for this years festivities. The temple premises and surrounding Mada Streets have been adorned with vibrant decorations, creating an atmosphere of devotion. TTD has implemented several improvements based on insights from previous years' Brahmotsavams. To ensure a comfortable experience for devotees, a state-of-the-art shed with German technology has been erected in front of the Ramalayam. TTD has also set up Annadanam counters to provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the festivities. Expert cooks and teams from Tirumala have been specifically deputed to prepare the 'anna prasadam' for the devotees. Following feedback from last year, TTD and the Kadapa district administration have taken joint initiatives to address shortcomings, particularly at the Kalyana Vedika of Lord Kodandarama Swamy. This year, meticulous arrangements have been made to ensure a smooth and seamless experience for devotees attending the celestial wedding ceremony scheduled for April 22 night. Additional infrastructure upgrades include a dedicated kitchen to prepare prasadam specifically for the Kalyanotsavam. For the convenience of devotees, underground electricity supply, a separate sump for drinking water, and a new road leading from the railway station to the Kalyana Mandapam have all been established.

Kadapa Police Develop AI tool to Scan Through Data on Polls

Anantapur : The Kadapa police have developed an Artificial Intelligence tool titled Election Mitra ( www.electionmitra.in ) to provide assistance at all levels to the ongoing election process. Kadapa SP, Siddarth Kaushal, who initiated the efforts to make use of AI for the general elections won praise from the Election Commission. Those seeking information on the poll process would zero in on it from the thousands of pages of election related literature in a fast, user-friendly and authentic manner. It would allow them to interact with the database in natural human language, the SP claimed here on Sunday. The AI tool scans information contained in more than 25,750 pages of source literature in the form of election manuals, handbooks, compendiums, circulars, press notes, notifications, MCC code etc. It also incorporates aspects like the various major criminal laws (IPC,CrPC, IEA etc.), the AP Police Manual and draft SOPs for police investigation. The proposal for such an AI based tool was first mooted in the review meeting conducted by the ECI with district election officers and district superintendents of police on Jan 9. The Kadapa SP developed the tool. It is not possible for officials engaged in election duty to remember all election-related information. The ElectionMitra tool helps one obtain any required information any time from this database. Users with authenticated login credentials can access the tool via a web portal, which is both desktop and mobile friendly. Users can simply start asking questions in natural human language and the system will generate responses based on the data that it has, the SP explained. The tool can be useful to officials engaged in election management like returning officers, police officers, election observers, senior district level officers, various nodal officers for different election related functions, legal advisers etc. Data protection and Data sovereignty: Unlike other AI-based tools, all data processing of ElectionMitra is done in India-based servers and at no point does the user data leave Indian jurisdiction, unlike chat GPT, Copilot etc. This has been developed by Kadapa district police in collaboration with Eva Daytechmercial, a Hyderabad-based startup funded by the Union Department of Science & Technology & Meta Corporation that owns Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp etc.

Fire mishap at warehouse in Anantapur

Balayya Launches Bus Yatra

Anantapur : Film star and Hindupur MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna kick started his Cycle Ravali Bus Yatra for the forthcoming assembly and Lok Sabha elections in the state by first performing pooja at Lord Narasimha Swamy Temple in Kadiri. Addressing a public meeting in the town on the occasion, Balayya came down heavily on Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy over poor development in the Rayalaseema region. He cautioned people against falling into the YSRC chiefs trap once again. The Hindupur MLA observed that all systems have collapsed under Jagan Mohan Reddys rule. He said though many projects and developmental activities had been taken up during TD regime of both NTR and Chandrababu Naidu, YSRC has neglected them all. Balakrishna cautioned that the state will adversely suffer if another chance is given to YSRC. He pointed out that middle class and weaker sections are finding it difficult to eke out a decent living. On the first day of his yatra, the film star covered Kadiri, Puttaparthi and Anantapur assembly segments. He will campaign in Singanamala and Tadipatri constituencies in Anantapur district on Sunday.

Heat wave over AP to resume tomorrow

VISAKHAPATNAM : After a brief lull, the heatwave in Andhra Pradesh is likely to revive itself from April 15. India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday predicted a fresh spell of heatwave conditions over isolated parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh (CAP) and Yanam for three days, beginning Monday, April 15. Heatwave will continue to prevail over Srikakulam, Manyam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, ASR, Anakapalli, Kakinada and East Godavari districts till April 17. Maximum temperature in parts of CAP is expected to be over 42 degrees Celsius. Rayalaseema region in the state will experience hot, humid and uncomfortable weather during the same period. On Saturday, April 13, Anantapur and Nandyal in Rayalaseema recorded the highest maximum temperature of 40.4 degree Celsius. Weather office said rainfall occurred at one or two places over CAP, while dry weather prevailed over Rayalaseema on Saturday. The first heatwave conditions over AP started on April 4 and continued till April 7, providing some respite from April 8.

Heat Wave to Resume from April 15

Visakhapatnam: After a brief lull, the heat wave is likely to revive from April 15. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday predicted a fresh spell of heat wave conditions over isolated parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh (CAP) and Yanam for three days, beginning from Monday (April 15). Maximum temperature in parts of the CAP is expected to be over 42 degrees Celsius. The Rayalaseema region in the state will experience hot, humid and uncomfortable weather during the same period. On Saturday (April 13), the highest maximum temperature of 40.4 degree Celsius was recorded at Anantapur and Nandyal in Rayalaseema. The weathermen said rainfall occurred at one or two places over CAP and dry weather prevailed over Rayalaseema on Saturday. The IMD predicted that heat wave conditions are most likely to prevail over Srikakulam, Manyam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, ASR, Anakapalle, Kakinada and East Godavari districts from April 15 to 17. Andhra Pradesh has seen this seasons first heat wave conditions on April 4 and it continued till April 7. There was some respite from April 8.

SP visits faction-hit villages in Anantapur, reviews security measures

Police officers told to closely monitor movements of rowdy sheeters; officers discuss the need for constant checks to prevent the smuggling of liquor, money, and other freebies from Karnataka at review met

Balayya to Launch 'Cycle Ravali' Bus Yatra from Kadiri Tomorrow

Anantapur: Film star and Hindupur TD MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna is scheduled to launch his Cycle Ravali Bus Yatra across the state from Friday, April 12. Party sources said Balakrishna, who is contesting from Hindupur assembly segment for the third time, is targeting a hat trick of victories from Hindupur, which has been the home turf of NTR family since 1985. The super star will campaign for candidates of Telugu Desam and allied parties across several parts of the state. Balayya will offer poojas at Lord Narasimha Swamy Temple in Kadiri town of Satya Sai district on Friday before starting on his Cycle Ravali Bus Yatra. He will cover Kadiri, Puttaparthi and Anantapur assembly segments on April 12. The next day, he will campaign in Singanamala and Tadipatri assembly constituencies of Anantapur district. The film star will enter Nandyal district at Banaganapalli on April 14 and tour Allagadda and Nandyal assembly segments. The yatra will enter the Panyam assembly constituency on April 15 and cover Nandikotkur and Kurnool segments in Kurnool district on the same day. On April 16, Balakrishnas bus yatra will enter Kodumur assembly constituency and cover the mandal headquarters and major towns of Kodumur, Yemmiganur and Mantralayam. He will continue his yatra in Pattikonda and Alur in Kurnool district and enter Rayadurg of Anantapur district on April 17.

Former IGP, YSRC MLC Iqbal Joins TDP

Anantapur : Former IGP of Rayalaseema Md. Iqbal, who has three more years of tenure as a YSRC MLC, resigned as MLC and from the ruling party as well on Wednesday. The same day, he joined the Telugu Desam Party in presence of its chief N. Chandrababu Naidu. Soon after his retirement as IGP, Iqbal had joined YSRC. The ruling party made him in-charge of Hindupur assembly constituency. YSRC went on to field Iqbal as its candidate against sitting MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna in 2019 elections, when many other leaders had been aspiring to contest from Hindupur. Iqbal lost the contest from Hindupur, a constituency that has been a stronghold of TDP from the time of NTR, who got elected thrice from this constituency. However, Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy compensated him by making him an MLC, while retaining him as Hindupur in-charge. Yet, Iqbal faced difficulties from various YSRC leaders within the Hindupur constituency, including APIDC chairman Naveen Nischal. The party high command led by regional coordinator Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy reviewed the situation and nominated K. Deepika as party in-charge of Hindupur assembly constituency. This led to protests from supporters of Iqbal, who decided to shift to Hyderabad and stay away from politics. Thus, his resignation as MLC and from YSRC, and joining Telugu Desam in presence of Chandrababu Naidu has come as a surprise, though Iqbal had blamed Jagan Mohan Reddy for ignoring minorities a couple of days ago. Political analyst Ramana observed that being in police and politics are altogether different. He points out that the political career of another police officer Gorantla Madhav, who had gone on to become an MP, has also come to a halt. It is to be seen how Iqbals move of joining the Telugu Desam is going to help him.

IMD issues weather warnings for Andhra Pradesh

Visakhapatnam : The weather department has warned of uncomfortable weather conditions and potential thunderstorms across Andhra Pradesh and Yanam for the next five days. According to the IMD's Amaravati Meteorological Centre, hot, humid and uncomfortable weather conditions are expected in isolated areas of North Coastal Andhra Pradesh (NCAP), Yanam, South Coastal Andhra Pradesh (SCAP) and Rayalaseema over the next two days, April 10 and 11. Starting from April 12, there is a chance of thunderstorms with lightning at isolated places in these same regions. These thunderstorm conditions are expected to persist for the following three days, April 12 to 14. The forecast indicates the possibility of moderate to heavy showers with thunderstorms in some areas. While maximum temperatures have dropped by about 4 degrees Celsius in the last two days, Rayalaseema districts continue to experience scorching heat. Anantapur recorded the highest temperature of 40.3 degrees C, followed by Nandyal at 40 degrees C. Visakhapatnam recorded the lowest temperature at 35.4. The weather advisory comes after hail storms hit parts of Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday. Severe hailstorm warnings have been issued for 11 mandals, while 134 mandals have been advised to be cautious against hailstorms.

Weather Forecast: Thunderstorms Across Andhra Pradesh, says IMD

IMD said very heavy rainfall would occur in north Telangana on Monday. Nasa also said that cloud top temperatures were as low as -53 degrees Celsius and had potential for heavy rainfall. (Photo: DC/File) IMD said very heavy rainfall would occur in north Telangana on Monday. Nasa also said that cloud top temperatures were as low as -53 degrees Celsius and had potential for heavy rainfall. (Photo: DC/File) Visakhapatnam: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of uncomfortable weather conditions and potential thunderstorms across Andhra Pradesh and Yanam for the next five days. According to the IMD's Amaravati Meteorological Centre, hot, humid, and uncomfortable conditions are expected in isolated areas of North Coastal Andhra Pradesh (NCAP), Yanam, South Coastal Andhra Pradesh (SCAP), and Rayalaseema over the next two days, April 10th and 11th, 2024. Starting from April 12th, there is a chance of thunderstorms with lightning at isolated places in these same regions. These thunderstorm warnings are expected to persist for the following three days, April 12th to 14th. The forecast indicates the possibility of moderate to heavy showers with thunderstorms in some areas. While maximum temperatures have dropped by about four degrees Celsius in the last two days, Rayalaseema districts continue to experience scorching heat. Anantapur recorded the highest temperature of 40.3 degrees Celsius, followed by Nandyal at 40 degrees Celsius. Visakhapatnam recorded the lowest temperature at 35.4 degrees Celsius. The weather advisory comes after severe hailstorms hit parts of Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday. Severe hailstorm warnings have been issued for 11 mandals, while 134 mandals have been advised to be cautious of potential hailstorms.

Balakrishna to Visit Nandyal, Kurnool from April 14

Nandamuri Balakrishna filed his nomination as TD candidate for Hindupur Assembly segment Wednesday. He was spotted at the Hindupur airport on April 16. Kurnool: Telugu Desam leader and Hindupur MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna will tour Nandyal and Kurnool districts from April 14 to 17. He will address the public at various constituency headquarters during his visit. On April 14, he will visit Banaganapalle, Allagadda, and Nandyal; on April 15, Panyam, Nandikotkur, and Kurnool; on April 16, Kodumur, Yemmiganur, and Mantralayam; and on April 17, Pathikonda and Alur. Further, he will enter Rayadurg constituency in Anantapur.

Temporary Respite From Heat Wave in AP Continues

Picture used for representational purpose. (Photo: PTI) Picture used for representational purpose. (Photo: PTI) Visakhapatnam: The temporary respite from the heat wave continued in Rayalaseema and coastal Andhra Pradesh for the second day on Tuesday. People of these two regions were subjected to sizzling heat and heatwave-like conditions for the last one week. The temperatures fell by four degrees on Tuesday. The majority of the locations in the state recorded below 40 degrees Celsius. Anantapur was the hottest in the state on Tuesday with 40.3 C followed by Nandyal at 40 C. The highest departure of 3.9 degree Celsius was in Visakhapatnam where the temperature was 35.4 degrees Celsius. A report from IMD Amaravathi said there would be no heat wave conditions for three to four days in the state but hot, humid and discomfort weather was likely at isolated places over north coastal Andhra Pradesh (NCAP), Yanam, south coastal Andhra Pradesh (SCAP) and Rayalaseema for Wednesday (April 10). The IMD forecast thunderstorms accompanied with lightning likely at isolated places over NCAP and Yanam on Thursday (April 11) and hot humid and uncomfortable weather likely at isolated places over Rayalaseema. The report said thundershower activities may spread to Rayalaseema region and continue for another two days (April 12 and 13) which will abate the hot and sweltering condition. .The IMD attributed the turn in weather to a trough or wind discontinuity from north coastal Andhra Pradesh to south Tamil Nadu.