Vishal's Rathnam gets lukewarm collections in Telugu States?

Tamil star Vishal who was banking on his latest release Rathnam to bounce back into reckoning in two Telugu states, should be disappointed with lukewarm collections on the first two days. The film just managed to cross Rs 1 crore plus in two days and it doesnt augur well for the action film, says a distributor, who adds, Vishal showcased his fighting skills and did few daredevil stunts but the wafer-thin plot dampened its prospects in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Tamil star Vishal is known for his action-based films like Pandem Kodi and Pogaru and even his last release Mark Antony was also appreciated by Telugu audiences. Pandem Kodi' and 'Pogaru were blockbusters in his career in Telugu states and even his other film Detective won critical acclaim and collections too, he points out. Telugu-speaking actor Vishal Krishna has been ruling the roost in Kollywood for the past two decades and giving Tamil stars a run for their money. After a slew of flops, Vishal is losing in the market in Tamil Nadu as well, he concludes.

Random checks, tip-offs remain key to cash seizures by police for enforcement of MCC in Telangana

As of the third week of April, the State has seen cash seizures worth around 155 crore; violators are coming up with ingenious ways to conceal the cash, say police

Congress banks on Telangana for Lok Sabha Polls Success, says Deepa

She appealed to the people to support the young leadership and elect Congress candidate Gaddam Vamshi Krishna from Peddapalli. She addressed two public meetings in the Mancheririal Assembly segment

Telangana HC confirms imprisonment of corrupt officer

Hyderabad: The Telangana High Court confirmed the jail sentence on an assistant engineer, who took bribes 20 years ago from a sub-contractor, for releasing bills for laying the road from Ramagudam to Pandavarigudem. Earlier, the ACB court had found that Soma Raghavender was guilty of receiving `20,000 bribe for releasing a `1 lakh pending bill and 19 tonnes of rice and ordered one year RI. The convicted officer told the court that the sub-contractor had developed a grudge on him for the demolition of his shop in government land. Hence, he approached the ACB, which said that the officer had given a statement that the sub-contractor had paid him that amount as loan. Justice Surender said that the contentions of the officer were disproved. In the event of the officer demolishing the shop of the sub-contractor, the question of asking for a loan was highly improbable. The judge observed that the burden that is shifted on to the accused can be discharged by preponderance of probability. No promissory note was executed nor any receipt given for taking the loan. Hence, the charges cannot be discharged, the judge said. HC disposes suit over nawabs properties Hyderabad: The Telangana High Court has recently disposed of a civil suit, which has been pending since 1951, and is related to property disputes among legal heirs of Nawab Fakhr-ul-Mulk, who died in 1934 leaving behind five sons and four daughters. He possessed properties like Erram Manzil with adjacent land measuring Acs.22.00 relating to Erram manzil. Remaining land adjacent to Erram Manzil, meant for sale measuring Acs. 75.27 gts., bungalow Errum Numa, Yerragadda, after deducting the land of Maqbara, measuring Acs.59.00, a bungalow at Bolarum, among others. His second son Nawab Fakhar Jung died in 1936 leaving behind eight sons, eleven daughters and four wives. The suit was originally between Nawab Ghaji Jung, first son of Nawab Fakhr-ul-Mulk, and heirs of Nawab Fakhar Jung. The suit was filed on 15.05.1946 and the plaint was presented on 30.8.1951. Disputes over some of the properties were resolved in 1951 only by the preliminary decree, which is pending for final decree. The High Court had appointed a receiver-cum commissioner from 1951 onwards. However, the new receiver-cum-commissioner Nizamuddin was appointed in 2022. He submitted a report dated 16.03.2023, which said that no land was available for partition. The report said that the maqbara (graveyard) in Ameerpet was still available and it was desirable to save this heritage. The report also submitted that as per information an amount of `1,18,81,249 is available in the suit account. HC confirms imprisonment of corrupt officerThe court said that the amount belongs to the shareholders who have not claimed the amount so far. In order to safeguard the amount, the court directed that it be kept in fixed deposits in any nationalized bank. When a shareholder approaches and claims the amount, such claim shall be decided by the court.

Timetable for Inter first, second year supplementary exam released

Hyderabad: The Telangana State Board of Intermediate Education (TS BIE) released the revised and tentative timetable for the Inter first and second supplementary exams on Saturday. According to the schedule, the exams will be held from May 24 to June 3. The first-year exams will take place from 9 am to 12 noon, and the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

BJP Confident of Double-Digit Seat Tally in Telangana Assembly Polls: K Laxman

BJP Confident of Double-Digit Seat Tally in Telangana Assembly Polls: K Laxman The BJP will win more than 10 of the total 17 Lok Sabha seats in Telangana on the back of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's popularity and his development agenda and corruption-free governance, BJP Rajya Sabha member K Laxman said. It is going to be a landslide victory for the BJP in Telangana in the Lok Sabha elections, Laxman, a member of BJP's parliamentary board, said. The BJP won four seats in Telangana in the 2019 general elections. ''People from every nook and corner of the state are looking towards PM Modi, his development agenda and welfare schemes for the poor and his achievements during the last 10 years,'' he told PTI here. In the Assembly polls held last year, people might have voted for the local issues, but they are definitely going to vote for Modi as their choice for PM in the Parliament elections, he said. The Congress had won the Assembly elections, defeating the BRS which was in power since 2014 when Telangana was formed. Asked what are the factors that will contribute to BJP's success in the present Lok Sabha elections, Laxman said Modi's charisma, his development agenda and zero-tolerance towards corruption are among the causes that will determine voters' choice in favour of BJP. In Telangana, people are looking for development and that is possible only with the BJP under the leadership of Modi, he said. ''We will definitely cross double digits (in LS polls). Our seats will be more than all parties put together,'' said Laxman, a former president of BJP in Telangana. Asked about Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy's remarks that the BJP would change the Constitution and abolish reservations, Laxman said the CM is speaking out of frustration. Modi has repeatedly said he would not allow anybody to change the Constitution, Laxman, national president of BJP's OBC Morcha, pointed out. ''It is you (Congress) people who are working against the Constitution. You are giving communal reservations which is anti-Constitution,'' he said. Architect of the Constitution Babasaheb Ambedkar never wanted religion-based reservations, but Congress is proposing religion-based reservations which is opposed by BJP, he said. ''You (Congress) are also now clinching away the rights of OBCs, SCs, STs by appeasing Muslim community,'' he said. On the allegation that the BJP is increasingly raking up communal issues during the ongoing Lok Sabha election campaign, Laxman said it is the opposition parties who are repeatedly talking about reservations for Muslims and others. ''Modi speaks for the poor irrespective of caste, whether it is Hindu, Muslim or Christian. Modi says we are working for the poor, women, youth and farmers,'' he said. The BJP, which won four seats in Telangana in the 2019 general elections, is hoping to win a majority of the constituencies now to add to its national kitty. Polling for all the 17 Lok Sabha seats in Telangana will be held on May 13.

Election heat: North Karnataka gears up for Phase-3

BENGALURU: A day after polling ended in the 14 Parliamentary constituencies of South and Coastal Karnataka, the focus of election officials has now shifted to Kittur, Kalyana and Malnad Karnataka regions. On May 7, Chikkodi, Belgaum, Bagalkot, Bijapur, Gulbarga, Raichur, Bidar, Koppal, Haveri, Dharwad, Uttara Kannada, Davanagere and Shimoga will go to polls. An official from the office of the Chief Electoral Officer, Karnataka, told TNIE that the problems are different with the terrain. However, the biggest concern is the summer heat. While the hot and dry weather conditions of Ballari, Bagalkot and Kalaburagi are worrisome, the terrain of the Ghat regions -- Western and Eastern -- are to be closely watched, he said. The poll officials said the North Karnataka regions of Phase-3 also have another concern, because of the border areas. A total of 172 police border check-posts have been set up, along with 40 managed by the excise department. If need be, more will be created. Karnataka shares borders with Telangana, AP , Goa and Maharashtra in areas falling under Phase-3 elections. Till polling is complete, border areas along Tamil Nadu and Kerala -- falling under Phase-2 -- will not be cleared. In addition, 19 forest check-posts and 15 transport check-posts have been created, the official said. All 65 companies of security personnel that were on duty for Phase-2 polls, have been shifted to areas that will see polling in Phase-3. Also, since the geographical area is large, over 2 lakh election staffers will be stationed. We are expecting a marginal rise in voting percentage in Phase-3. The average voting percentage could be around 67-68%. Due to high temperatures, we are expecting that the voter turn-out will be more during evening hours after 5 pm, and before 9 am, the official mentioned. 2,59,17,493 - Total number of voters for Phase-3 elections 1,29,66,570 - Females 1,29,48,978 - Males 28,269 - Number of polling stations

BJP wants to change Constitution by 2025: Revanth Reddy

Hyderabad: Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy accused the BJP of planning to change the Constitution and said that the top brass of the BJP including Prime Minister Narendra Modi were doing surgical strike on the Other Backward Classes. Addressing a press conference here, CM Reddy said, BJP wants to change the Constitution by 2025 and 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 .

Telangana Cops Rescue Two Indians Forced To Work For Chinese Cyber Scammers From Cambodia

Rajanna Sircilla district police in Telangana in Telangana rescued two techies from Cambodia who were being forced to work for Chinese cyber criminals operating out of Cambodia.

Islam allows couples to meet prior to nikah for the purpose of selection

Hyderabad: Does Islam allow couples to meet before nikah? It is one of the most frequently asked questions. According to Shariah, the intended spouses are permitted to see each other for the purpose of selection and also permitted to ask and give opinions. The reasoning behind this is that a man and a woman must 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 .

WWF-Indias City Nature Challenge reaches Arunachal, Assam

HT Bureau GUWAHATI, April 27: WWF- India is inviting participants to submit photos of wild plants, animals and fungi from Assam and Arunachal Pradesh along with several Indian states like Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka and New Delhi. The 9thedition of City Nature Challenge started from April 26 to 29. Out of 675 cities participating []

Runaway MP child rescued at Secbad stn

Sircilla youth forced into cyber frauds in Cambodia, rescued

Floating pumps tap surface water from Himayat Sagar

High court rings down the curtain on 73-yr-old case

9L voters deleted, 14L added in Greater Hyd in the past two yrs

Defeated, But Not Down, Many Back In The Fray

Loan waiver new deadline just to win seats, says KTR

BJP seeks EC action on morphed video of Shah

PSU staffer dupes man with fake job, arrested

BJP will do surgical strike on SC, ST quota: Revanth

Tight vigil at interstate checkposts in Khammam

Ensure 3-tier security system for DRCs, says Hyd general observer

RTC to recover cost of damages from perpetrators of violence

3 different winners in last 3 polls in some key LS seats

Modi & Revanth failed to fulfil promises: KCR

Top badminton players meet GHMC chief Rose

Plaint filed against temple employee

Ghose probe panel hearings from May 8

Fearing backlash, Karnataka holds back on water to Telangana amid polls

The vagaries of climate change may not have made it to the manifestos of parties in this Lok Sabha election, but drinking water is all set to become a prickly political issue just days before people line up to vote in Telangana on May 13. As water levels dip in reservoirs across the state, govt is hoping Karnataka comes to its rescue.

2 Telangana youths forced into cyber fraud by Chinese company in Cambodia, one rescued

A job racket involving a Chinese company - operating in Cambodia and committing cyber frauds - was busted by Cambodian police after an alert by Rajanna Sircilla district police in Telangana.A graduate from Sircilla district, who was sent to Sihanoukville, a coastal city in Cambodia, three months ago by the fraudsters to work in Chinese firm, has been rescued and is being brought back to Telangana.

2 youths forced into cyber fraud by Chinese co in Cambodia

A job racket involving a Chinese company - operating in Cambodia and committing cyber frauds - was busted by Cambodian police after an alert by Rajanna Sircilla district police in Telangana.A graduate from Sircilla district, who was sent to Sihanoukville, a coastal city in Cambodia, three months ago by the fraudsters to work in Chinese firm, has been rescued and is being brought back to Telangana.

Telangana: Hyderabad police apprehends two drug peddlers, seizes narcotic substances

The News Mill

Hyderabad: Killer Caught Ferrying Dead Kin in Ambulance

Hyderabad : A man caught his brother-in-law while he was transported the body of his cousin, whom he had murdered, and handed him over to the police. According to the Jubilee Hills, the accused, Chinna Manikyam, an autorickshaw driver and farmer, had murdered his cousin Kurva Shanti Kumar, 35, on Friday evening at his house in Guru Brahmanagar, Jubilee Hills. Manikyams brother in-law Astaram Arshappa, who was passing by, heard Maniykam and Shanti Kumar arguing. He was later informed by Shanti Kumars house owner that Manikyam had attacked Shanti Kumar. Manikyam placed Shanti Kumars body in his autorickshaw and took it to a private hospital nearby where the doctors declared him dead, police said. In the night, Manykam arranged an ambulance to transport the victim's body to their native place in Karnataka when Arshappa and his family member alerted the police. Police rushed to the spot, arrested Manikyam after inspecting the crime scene along with CLUES team, collected the boulder used in the murder from Shanti Kumars house, sources disclosed. Manikyam had recently registered two acres of ancestral land on his name without informing Shanti Kumar, his younger brother Chinna Manikyam and sister Lakshmi, K. Venkateshwar Reddy, Jubilee Hills police inspector. said. Fearing that Shanti Kumar would disclose it to his family members, he murdered his cousin and tried to transport the body to his native place but got caught. Based on a complaint lodged by Arshappa police registered cases of murder, giving false information, trying to disappear evidence from the investigation officer against Manikyam. Ayurvedic Meds with Misleading Advertisement Seized Hyderabad : Drugs Control Administration (DCA) officials on Saturday seized Ayurvedic medicines with misleading claims on their labels, stating they treat rheumatism, fevers and haemorrhoids. Officials seized Rumalaya Liniment, an ayurvedic oil which claims treating rheumatism being circulated in Rajanna Sircilla district, Bhringraj Choornam, an ayurvedic powder claiming to treat fevers sold in Nizamabad district, and PileBan cream claiming to solve haemorrhoids in Suryapet district. Officials also raided a quacks clinic, Raghu Rama First Aid Centre run by Gangadhari Ramesh, in Mahbubabads Dornakal. Ramesh falsely claimed he was a a rural medicine practitioner. Officials found 22 varieties from him. Telangana Police Arrest Man for Mini-Truck Theft Hyderabad : Telangana polices special zonal crime team on Saturday nabbed a man for stealing a mini-truck worth Rs.10 lakh. The accused, 23-year old Masnaaji Raju, a native of Maharashtras Nanded district, is a Golnaka resident. They also seized the mini truck from Sultan Bazaar police station limits. During interrogation, Raju claimed he stole the vehicle as he was in need of money to meet his daily expenditure. Officials handed over the car to the Sultan Bazaar police.

Congress Optimistic, Modi Fearful: AICC Telangana Chief

Adilabad: AICC Telangana in-charge Deepa Das Munsi on Saturday said that the Congress had pinned a lot of hope on the state in the Lok Sabha elections, and said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had started scared of the fight put up by Rahul Gandhi. Rahul Gandhi had completed the Bharat Jodo Yatra and Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra to protect democracy, for peace and communal harmony and fight against divisive forces, she said. The yatra was intended to support the youth leadership. She appealed to the people to support the young leadership and elect Congress candidate Gaddam Vamshi Krishna from Peddapalli. She addressed two public meetings in the Mancheririal Assembly segment. Munsi said it was Sonia Gandhi who created Telangana state and the people the elected the Congress in the recent polls as gratitude. The Congress government implemented five guarantees. Former MP Gaddam Vivek reeled out the development works and implemented the welfare schemes for the Singareni by the late Gaddam Venkatswamy. Vamshi Krishna said he would focus on creating employment for the unemployed youth in the government and private industries and he was following the message of Hum Kisise Kam Nahin that of Venkatswamy. Premsagar Rao said filled 900 jobs were filled the Singareni Collieries and notifications were given for another 1,400 jobs and reeled out the mischief done by the BRS-backed TBGKS and how they exploited the workers. Minister D. Sridhar Babu said the state government was committed to the welfare of the poor and all the sections of the society. Ramagundam MLA Makhan Singh Raj Takur, AICC secretaries Vishnunath and Rohit Chowdhury, Youth Congress national president Srinivas Reddy, state president Shivasena Reddy and former MLC Puranam Satish and Parakala Venugopal and others were present. Mancherial DCC president K. Surekha and Municipal Chairman Uppalaiah and others were present.

Advocate Alleges Phone-Tapping: Files Complaint Against Former CM and Others

Hyderabad: Leading advocate P.N. Arun Kumar, former additional government pleader in the Telangana High Court, on Saturday filed a complaint with the Panjagutta police seeking action in the phone-tapping case against former chief minister K. Chandrashekar Rao, former minister K.T. Rama Rao, former SIB chief T. Prabhakar Rao and former officers who have been arrested in the case. He also alleged in the complaint that one of the influencers in this case, Santosh Rao S., was from the High Court. Santosh Rao worked in the AAG office in the HC from July 2014 to December 2023. Arun Kumar demanded that the police secure the custody of former DSP D. Praneeth Rao again and question him about Santosh Raos alleged involvement in the operation. Arun Kumar, whose tenure ended on March 31, 2018, said he had felt suffocated by the control allegedly exercised by Santosh Rao. He claimed his phone was tapped when he spoke out against Santosh Rao. He claimed in his complaint that the phones of law officers of the High Court, senior advocates representing political parties, bar association and judges had been tapped and sought an inquiry. He also sought seizure of the relevant equipment to support his claim of phone tapping.

Revanth a Coward, Runs Away from Responsibility: KTR

Hyderabad: BRS working president K.T. Rama Rao said Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy had shrugged responsibility for the partys success in Mahbubnagar district because he knew that the Congress was losing. When this happens, it will be a severe loss of face for him, Rama Rao said on Saturday. Rama Rao also said Revanth Reddy was desperately invoking Gods and taking last gasp oaths knowing that he could keep his promises to the people. The BRS leader was speaking with reporters at Telangana Bhavan after unfurling the BRS flag at the party headquarters marking the Foundation Day of the party. The people too have understood that they were taken for ride after believing the Congress partys promises before the Assembly elections, and they should be careful this time round in the polling for Lok Sabha elections and not vote for the Congress. It is only BRS that can force the Congress to keep its promises and for this to happen, people should vote for BRS, Rama Rao said.

Auto drivers in a cold sweat over poll promise of free bus ride scheme for women

Since 80% of their passengers comprise women and collegegoers, the auto drivers worry that their income would drastically drop if the scheme is implemented in the State; the plight of their counterparts in Karnataka and Telangana and results of private surveys conducted by auto workers unions indicate the same, they decry

Vaccination for Haj Pilgrims

Hyderabad : Haj pilgrims will have to mandatorily get vaccinated before their journey at the district hospital headquarters from April 29 onwards, the Telangana State Haj Committee has announced. District societies and voluntary organisations will coordinate with the district medical health officer and make necessary arrangements for the vaccination camps. Pilgrims above 70 years will be inoculated with meningitis and seasonal influenza vaccines, while polio drops will be given to all. Those embarking on the journey from Hyderabad can get themselves vaccinated at the government hospitals at Nampally, Malakpet King Koti and Golconda or at the Ameerpet community health centre. A statement by Shaikh Liyakat Hussain, executive officer, TSHC, said pilgrims will be notified shortly on their Telegram channel. Separate arrangements will be made for male and female pilgrims between 10.30 am and 4 pm. For updates, the pilgrims have been asked to join the official Telegram channel, or call the TSHC office during work hours (10.30 am to 4 pm) on 040-23298793 or contact in person at Haj House, Nampally, Hyderabad.

180 Medicos Attend Medical Ethics Workshop

Hyderabad : Around 180 medical professionals, including college department heads and professors, attended a medical ethics and regulatory practices workshop, at the Gandhi Alumni Building in Hyderabad on Saturday. It was organised by the Ethics & Medical Registration Board (EMRB) and the National Medical Commission (NMC), in collaboration with the Telangana State Medical Council (TSMC). NMC chairman Dr B.N. Gangadhar chaired the workshop and key speakers included NMC secretary Dr Srinivas, EMRB member Dr Yogendar Malik, director of medical education for Telangana Dr Vani, TSMC chairman Dr Mahesh, and vice chairman Dr Srinivas Gundagani. The programme's agenda focused on ethical practice, ethics regulation, case studies, and opinion writing on medical ethics and negligence. Amidst lively discussions, it was decided that Telangana state should have stronger vigilance and that more officials must be inducted into the department. The event concluded with an awards ceremony as gold medals were handed to the toppers from the 2018 batch of medical colleges across the state.

1,060 nominations filed by 625 Telangana candidates found to be valid

nominations filed by Telangana candidates found to be valid

BJP wants to change Constitution by 2025: Telangana CM Revanth Reddy

The News Mill

NETA NATTER | KCR, KTR TREAD ON UNFAMILIAR TERRITORY

All it takes is one good political defeat to make leaders tread paths they would otherwise have not. Take the instance of BRS chief and former chief minister K. Chandrashekar Rao who visited a regional news channel studio and spent a whopping four hours doing an interview live. Similarly, his son K.T. Rama Rao has been visiting various temples, including the Gadwal Jogulamba temple, as part of the Lok Sabha election campaign and offering prayers. Both developments came as a big surprise to political circles. One, because KCR never took part in any live debate on any regional TV channel in the last 10 years, and KTR, a self-declared atheist, stayed away from temples including the renovated Yadadri temple when it was inaugurated by KCR with the then Cabinet in attendance. Politics, as they say, is a fickle mistress. A BATTLE OF OATHS ENSUES Promises, oaths. These have become the staple of politicians and the current overheated political situation in Telangana is seeing more and more of these each day. While BRS chief K. Chandrashekar Rao is slamming the A. Revanth Reddy government for indulging only in thitlu and votlu (abuse of BRS leaders, and promises on Gods), but doing nothing, his son K.T. Rama Rao has demanded that Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy take a vottu on his wife and daughter instead of Gods. Revanth is taking oaths with God as his witness at famous temples in different constituencies during his campaign and saying that he will waive crop loans of all farmers in one go by August 15. But Gods, KTR counters, do not question back and so wants Revanth to take such oaths on his wife and daughter. BRS DOES U-TURN Gone are the days of bemoaning about the country as a whole and how the BRS was the answer that the nation could be waiting for. After the Assembly elections defeat, and with Lok Sabha polls looming, BRS leaders have gone back to their golden oldie, that only it can protect the interests of the state. For instance, in Adilabad, BRS leaders in their speeches say that regional parties like the BRS can only protect the interest of Telangana state, unlike the Congress and the BJP. Former BRS minister Jogu Ramanna is leading the pack, saying only the BRS can talk about the state, and that national parties have no real interest in Telanganas welfare. While it is no longer TRS and is now BRS, for now, the opposition party is betting on the old is gold adage. WE CAN HURL ABUSE AND STILL SEEK SUPPORT? That politicians try to give a spin of their own to suit their political convenience is a given. They live by the dictum that there are no permanent friends and foes in politics, and follow it in letter and spirit. As its true and blue followers, they tend to justify their own party hopping but decry the moves of their opponents. The other day, BJP leader M. Raghunandan Rao found fault with the Congress and especially Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy for going to Kerala and calling the CPM communalists there, even as his colleague, Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, was hobnobbing with their leaders seeking their support in Telangana state. This left one wondering what would be his opinion on his partys alignment with the Kashmir-based PDP again, which it regularly blames for hobnobbing with separatists. FOOT IN MOUTH FOR NANDYAL MP A slip of the tongue is a common occurrence for everyone, particularly when they are momentarily inattentive. However, in the realm of politics, such slips can pose major problems as Nandyal MP Pocha Brahmananda Reddy found out. After filing his nomination papers, he made glowing references to his YSRC president and Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddys welfare schemes. But, as he wound up, he called on the people to vote for the bicycle symbol, which belongs to the YSRCs arch-rival, the Telugu Desam. Though he tried to make immediate amends, his comment flew through the online world, with folks cracking jokes at him. Clearly, an untimely slip of the tongue cant be corrected even with nine urgent stitches in these days of instant communication. PAWAN DANCES TO THE PEOPLES TUNE Song and dance are part of the political process and candidates facing elections are no strangers to this. And if the candidate happens to be an actor-politician like Pawan Kalyan, then things can quickly get interesting. Using all his histrionic skills, Pawan, contesting from Pithapuram Assembly constituency in Andhra Pradesh, alternates between fits of anger and rage. But of late, he has also taken to shaking a leg, given how popular some of his numbers from his movies are. This was on full display at the nomination rally of his Jana Senas candidate from Kakinada Lok Sabha constituency, Tangella Uday Srinivas, the other day. During the rally, Pawan danced to the accompanying drumbeats driving the crowds wild with men and women joining in with enthusiasm. Whether sweating it out in the sun by dancing will get his party votes, however, remains to be seen. Contributions from Vadrevu Srinivas, G. Ram Mohan, L. Venkatram Reddy, P.V. Prasad, Pillalamarri Srinivas.

Congress Taking Forward 'Social Justice' Agenda Through Nyay Guarantee Cards

Adilabad: The Congress is taking its social justice' agenda through Nyay Guarantee cards to the voters' doorsteps as part of its campaign for the Lok Sabha elections in Adilabad constituency. The party leaders are distributing guarantee cards with promises of Yuva Nyay, Kisan Nyay, Bhagidari Nyay, Nari Nyay and Shramik Nyay. AICC leader Rahul Gandhi has spoken much about these Paanch Nyay during his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra and included them in the partys manifesto. Voters who have received myay guarantee cards will also receive messages and phone calls from the Congress war room seeking their votes for their Adilabad candidate. The partys Adilabad town president Gudipalli Nagesh said that people have been responding positively to the initiative during their house-to-house campaign in villages and towns. He hoped for a replication of the Assembly success in the Lok Sabha elections in Telangana. The Congress is offering jobs with Rs 1 lakh salary to the unemployed youth under Yuva Nyay, offering crop loan waiver and MSP as per the M.S. Swaminathan Commission formula and providing legal safeguards under the Kisan Nyay and caste census for social and economic equality among the people and different communities under Bhagidari Nyay and Rs 1 lakh financial assistance to one woman in a family under Nari Nyay, Rs 400 as minimum daily wages, including for labourers of MGNREGS under Shramik Nyay. Panchayat raj minister Seethakka participated in the party cadre meeting in Bejjur and Chinthalamanepalli mandals on Saturday. Party candidate Atram Suguna also spoke. She said they were campaigning in the villages and exposing the failures of the BJP and BRS and their autocratic rule in the last ten years.

Make BRS victorious in LS polls to fight on peoples behalf: KCR

Hyderabad: Attacking the ruling Congress and BJP for allegedly not implementing their promises to the people, former Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao on Saturday said his party BRS should be made victorious in the Lok Sabha polls to fight on behalf of the people. Addressing a roadshow in the Lok Sabha constituency of Nagarkurnool, 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 .

CPM to Support Congress in LS polls, Uncertainty Remains over Bhongir

Hyderabad: The CPM has decided to extend support to Congress candidates in Telangana state in the Lok Sabha elections and defeat the BJP. The party leaders conveyed their decision to this effect during their meeting with TPCC president and Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy at his residence here on Saturday. A CPM delegation, led by party state secretary Tammineni Veerabhadram, and senior leaders Julakanti Ranga Reddy, Veeraiaih met the Chief Minister and discussed working together. However, uncertainty prevails over the Bhongir Lok Sabha seat from where CPM has fielded Mohammed Jahangir, who has already filed his nomination papers. The CPM leaders assured support to Congress candidates in 16 Lok Sabha constituencies. A decision on Bhongir would be taken after consulting the partys national leadership. CPM is a part of the Congress-led I.N.D.I.A. bloc. Revanth Reddy urged the CPM leaders to withdraw their candidate from Bhongir. He asked them to back the Congress candidates in order to avoid a vote split which could benefit the BJP. Revanth Reddy said that as suggested by AICC, he had placed certain proposals before them in the fight to defeat the BJP. There are a couple of issues which will be resolved by tomorrow, he said. This meeting is a follow-up of deputy CM Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka's meeting with CPM leaders on April 19. Although it announced that it would contest all 17 Lok Sabha seats on its own, the CPM announced a candidate for only the Bhongir seat.

Modi, Shah accused of undermining SC, ST, OBC rights: Revanth Reddy

Modi, Shah accused of undermining SC, ST, OBC rights: Revanth Reddy Intensifying his attack on BJP, Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Saturday claimed that the BJP is conspiring to change the Constitution and abolish reservations in the country and that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah are doing a ''surgical strike'' on SC, ST and OBCs. The RSS, when it was founded in 1925, had decided to announce the nation as a ''Hindu country'' and to scrap the reservations in 100 years (by 2025), he claimed. ''The reason for (BJP's slogan of) '400 paar' (above 400) is because they want to change the Constitution completely, abolish reservations and make India free of reservations,'' he told reporters here. ''Narendra Modi and Amit Shah are doing a 'surgical strike' on the natives of this country, the Dalits, STs and OBCs.They (BJP) have decided to make this elections as the ground for their surgical strike,'' Reddy said. As the grand old party is trying to counter the BJP's attempt to abolish quotas and hurting the social fabric, Modi and Shah are now making an indiscriminate attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, he alleged. The BJP is seeking 400 seats to implement the ideology of RSS and to announce the country as ''free of reservations'', he said. The Modi government has implemented the plans of the RSS, including triple talaq, Article 370, Uniform Civil Code and CAA, he charged. He also claimed that by scrapping reservations, the BJP is attempting to make the SCs, STs and OBCs ''slaves of corporate companies''. Rahul Gandhi had announced to conduct OBC census and to remove the 50 per cent cap on reservations, Reddy, who is also Telangana Congress president, said. Attacking the BRS, he alleged that the party's president, K Chandrasekhar Rao, is not questioning the BJP's conspiracy to scrap reservations. Rao, also known as KCR, had earlier favoured changing the Constitution, he said. Reddy said the Congress should win if SC, ST and OBC reservation are to exist. The chief minister claimed that the BJP would not get more than 10-15 Lok Sabha seats in the southern states out of the 130. The Congress and INDIA bloc would win more than 100 seats from the south, he added. PM Modi will have to accept defeat this time like KCR did in the Assembly polls last year, Reddy said. Polling for all the 17 Lok Sabha constituencies in Telangana will be held on May 13.

Welfare for All, Privileges for None: Congress's Commitment to Social Justice

Welfare for All, Privileges for None: Congress's Commitment to Social Justice Congress candidate from Chandigarh parliamentary constituency Manish Tewari on Saturday said that unlike the Bharatiya Janata Party, his party believes in mass welfare and not privileges for a select few. ''Public welfare was and will always remain our topmost priority and preference irrespective of what our opponents say about it,'' Tewari asserted during an interaction with the people while campaigning in the Union Territory. Accompanied by several Congress leaders and workers, including Chandigarh Congress president HS Lucky, Tewari toured various parts of the city and talked to the people about the problems they are facing. Tewari, the sitting MP from Anandpur Sahib constituency in Punjab, pointed out that the Congress poll manifesto, named 'Nyay Patra,' is a manifesto designed for the masses of the country with its ''five commandments for justice.'' Tewari said that during the last ten years the BJP created a ''select and privileged group of crony capitalists,'' while the Congress guarantees justice to the youth, farmers, women, and workers. The former Union minister claimed that the unemployment in the county at present is the highest in 45 years. He also wondered what happened to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's promise of creating 2 crore jobs every year. ''By that count, there should have been twenty crore jobs generated by now,'' Tewari said. Instead, he said, the government ''failed'' to fill 30 lakh vacancies pending across government departments. The politician, who is a lawyer by profession, said his party will give Rs 1 lakh to one woman per family to bring that family out of poverty. The Congress has done it in the past with the Food Security Act and the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), which revolutionised rural employment, he said. Tewari claimed that even after last year's victories in Karnataka and Telangana, the Congress fulfilled all its guarantees, directly benefiting the common people and not just a privileged few. Polling for the lone Chandigarh seat will take place on June 1.

Wakf board claimed 5-star Hotel Marriot in Hyderabad as its property, Telangana High Court quashes petition in the decades-old dispute

Despite previous determinations and legal interventions, the Telangana Wakf board persisted in claiming the land as its own.

1060 nominations filed by 625 Telangana candidates found to be valid

Hyderabad: As many as 1060 nominations filed by 625 candidates were found to be valid after scrutiny of 1488 papers received for May 13 Lok Sabha polls in Telangana. After the scrutiny on Friday, 428 nominations were rejected, a communication from Chief Electoral Officer Vikas Raj said on Saturday. The last date for withdrawal of Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

TSSPDCL calls KCRs power cuts in Mahabubnagar remark false

Hyderabad: The Telangana State Southern Power Distribution Company Limited (TSSPDCL) called BRS chief K Chandrashekhar Raos allegation that there were frequent power cuts in Mahabubnagar during his visit to former minister V Srinivas Gouds house as false. In his first attack on the Congress after joining social media platform X on Saturday, April 27, KCR 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 .

Ban KCR from poll campaigning for anti-Hindu remarks: VHP to EC

Hyderabad: The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) on Saturday, April 27, filed a complaint with Telangana Chief Election Officer (CEO) Vikas Raj against Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) chief K Chandrashekhar Rao (KCR) for insulting Hindu traditions. The RSS affiliate group alleged that KCR disparaged the distribution of Akshatalu (sacred turmeric coated rice), Prasadam during the Ayodhya 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 .

Telangana Health department issues heatwave advisory

People have been advised to shield their heads using umbrellas, hats or caps and also minimise outdoor activities

Telangana: Elderly couple die a day apart, as their immortal love lives on

Hyderabad: While everybody has to face a certain death, partners dying hours and days apart is a rarity. One such tragedy unfolded in a household of Athmakur mandal headquarters in Hanamkonda district, Telangana, this week. Pogakula Sugunamma (70) and Cheralu (80) led one of the happiest married lives together, as an ideal couple who were 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 .

Talks about religion and beef: BJP candidate Madhavi Latha slams Owaisi

Talks about religion and beef: BJP candidate Madhavi Latha slams Owaisi Accusing him of seeking votes in the name of the Babri Masjid, BJP candidate from Hyderabad Lok Sabha seat, Madhavi Latha said that the Election Commission should take action against AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi for allegedly provoking people by discussing eligion and beef. She accused Owaisi of asking people to slaughter cows and eat beef, questioning do Muslims have nothing to do else in life other than consuming beef. They (AIMIM) are going against the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and the Election Commission should take action against them. They are coming out in public and asking people to slaughter cows and eat beef. They are asking for votes in the name of Babri Masjid, Latha told ANI. She added, Surprisingly, an educated barrister like Asaduddin Owaisi is saying this. What is worrisome is, that he wants Muslims limited to eating beef, he does not want them to move on from all this. Pasmanda Muslims should think about this, do they have nothing else in life other than beef? She suggested that Muslims need to think if they want the situation of minorities to remain the same for the next 40 years. He never talks to people about any manifesto... He has only two things to talk about, religion and beef... He does nothing except provocation... He has come 40 years slaughtering and eating beef, now Muslims need to think if they want things to continue like this for the next 40 years... The Hyderabad Lok Sabha constituency comprises seven assembly segments--Bahadurpura, Chandrayangutta, Charminar, Goshamahal, Karwan, Malakpet and Yakatpura. All assembly seats, except Goshamahal, are presently held by the AIMIM. BJP has fielded Madhavi Latha from the Hyderabad constituency. Since 1984, candidates from the Owaisi family or those supported by them, have been elected from Hyderabad, with Owaisi currently serving as the Lok Sabha member from the prestigious seat. Polling for 17 parliamentary constituencies in Telangana will be held on May 13. In the 2019 general election, Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) won nine seats, Bharatiya Janata Party four, Congress three and AIMIM one seat. The voting for the first two phases have been completed so far. The next round of voting will be held on May 7. Lok Sabha polls are being held across seven phases till June 1 and votes will be counted on June 4. (ANI)

BRS celebrates foundation day with grand ceremony in Hyderabad

BRS celebrates foundation day with grand ceremony in Hyderabad The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) celebrated its foundation day across Telngana with grand celebration at its headquarters, Telangana Bhavan, in Hyderabad on Saturday. The party was founded as Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) by K Chandrashekhar Rao (KCR) on April 27, 2001. Later in 2022, it was renamed as Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS). BRS Working President Kalvakuntla Taraka Rama Rao (KTR) hoisted the flag at the party headquarters alongside other leaders and a large number of cadres. KTR extended his heartfelt congratulations and expressed gratitude to all party members for their dedication and sacrifices towards achieving and developing the state of Telangana. I extend my wishes to all the party members of BRS. We are celebrating the 24th anniversary of the party. In 24 years, those who struggled a lot and made many sacrifices for Telangana's statehood and then for Telangana's development, on behalf of KCR sir and the entire party leadership, I thank all of you, he said. Your contribution and efforts have made us what we are today. We hope that again we will get the opportunity to serve the people of Telangana, he added. Polling for 17 parliamentary constituencies in Telangana is scheduled to be held on May 13. During the 2014 Lok Sabha elections in Telangana, the TRS was the leading party, securing 11 seats. The BJP, Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP), and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) secured one seat each. The Indian National Congress (INC) party was able to secure two seats. In the 2019 general election, Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) won 9 seats. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured 4 seats. The Indian National Congress (INC) obtained 3 seats. All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) won 1 seat. The counting for all seven phases of the Lok Sabha polls will be held on June 4, 2024. (ANI)

Know Your Candidates from Chevella MP Constituency

All the three candidates are the top wealthiest in Telangana

CPM to support Congress in Lok Sabha polls in Telangana

Hyderabad: The alliance talks between Congress and CPM yielded results on Saturday after chief minister A Revanth Reddy and CPM state secretary Tammineni Veerabhadram announced that both the parties will work together in the general elections with a common goal of preventing the fascist forces from coming to power. After meeting with the CPM state 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 .

Inspiring: Gave speed to the journey of life by changing the tires of the truck, the life story of this woman mechanic is special

Women have become so empowered that they are flying the flag in every field. From arms to literature, the role of women is increasing. While women are in the defense department of the country, they are flying planes as doctors, engineers, and pilots. There is one such woman, who is a truck mechanic. Have you seen any female truck mechanics around? You may not have seen it, because this is not a normal job for women. But 32-year-old Yedalpalli Adilakshmi, a resident of Sujatha Nagar village of Kothagudem in Telangana, is a truck mechanic. She is probably the only truck mechanic in Telangana who repairs trucks, repairs their engines, and even changes heavy truck tires. Woman becomes truck mechanic Adilakshmi was born into a poor family and never thought that one day she would become a mechanic. Adilakshmi started this work only to help her husband, Veerabhadram, because Veerabhadram had to work away from home for Yedlapalli to earn money. Even when Adilakshmi gave birth to her second child, Veerabhadram could not come to her due to his work, which made Adilakshmi feel very bad. Then she thought that she would open an automobile shop for her husband in the village itself and help him so that Veerabhadram could live with the family. Adilakshmi used to help her husband at the shop, but many customers would turn back after seeing a female mechanic. This made him feel disappointed, and his income was also decreasing. Took responsibility for the husband She then improved her skills by watching her husband fix punctured tires. Similarly, while helping her husband, she became an expert mechanic. Telangana Rashtra Samithi honored him for his work and gifted him a tire-changing machine as well as other machines that could make his work easier. (PC: ISTOCK)

Telangana: KCR joins major social media platforms X & Instagram

Hyderabad: Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) chief and former Telangana chief minister K Chandrashekhar Rao (KCR) joined social media platforms X and Instagram on Saturday, April 27, coinciding with the BRS 23rd anniversary. In his first post on X, he wished party leaders, cadres and fans of the BRS on the occasion of the anniversary. 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 .

Southern India's Water Storage Falls to 17% of Reservoir Capacity

The Central Water Commission (CWC) recently released a bulletin regarding reservoir storage levels across various regions of India, revealing that the southern region, which includes Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, is facing a significant reduction in water storage compared to historical averages. The southern region's 42 reservoirs, monitored by the CWC, have a total live storage capacity of 53.334 billion cubic meters (BCM), but the available live storage is currently only 8.865 BCM, representing just 17% of their total capacity. This figure is much lower than the storage levels from the same period last year (29%) and the ten-year average (23%), indicating worsening water scarcity and potential challenges for irrigation, drinking water supply, and hydroelectric power generation in these states. Meanwhile, the eastern region, comprising states like Assam, Odisha, and West Bengal, has shown improvement in water storage levels compared to last year and the ten-year average. In this region, 23 monitored reservoirs with a total live storage capacity of 20.430 BCM currently hold 7.889 BCM of water, representing 39% of their total capacity. Other regions are also facing challenges. The western region, consisting of Gujarat and Maharashtra, reports storage levels of 11.771 BCM, which is 31.7% of the total capacity of the 49 monitored reservoirs. This is notably lower than the storage levels of the previous year (38%) and the ten-year average (32.1%). Similarly, the northern and central regions also show declines in water storage levels compared to historical averages. Award of 30-Year Management Contract for Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport to Indian-Russian Joint Venture NTA Ends NEET UG 2024 Correction Session Today NIA Arrests Key Figure in Violent Attack on Indian High Commission in London

TS LAWCET 2024: Registration Deadline Extended till May 4, Apply Now at lawcet.tsche.ac

The Telangana State Council of Higher Education (TSCHE) has extended the registration date for the Telangana State Law Common Entrance Test (TS LAWCET) 2024. Candidates can now apply without paying a late fee until May 4. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to apply for TS LAWCET 2024 and important details regarding the exam.

Modi is a cobra, will be back to bite ryots: CM

Revanth Reddy warns of PM Modi's grudge against farmers after the farm laws repeal. He criticizes BJP's reservations attack and PSUs privatization. Allegations against Zahirabad MP Patil, KCR, and BJP connections, including the Delhi liquor scam.

Realty project on lake FTL: HC says don't want Noida encore

Telangana high court criticizes state for lax response to PIL accusing Vasavi Infra of building towers in Komatikunta lake buffer zone. Officials directed to submit lake records by April 30. Akula Satish accuses HMDA of allowing towers in FTL.

Jagan Spells Out 9 Promises in YSRCP Manifesto

Vijayawada: The much-awaited manifesto-2024 of YSRCP with nine crucial promises was released by the Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy at Tadepalle party office in Guntur on Saturday. Promising to continue existing welfare schemes aimed at benefiting people across the State, he said that the pensions to elderly persons was increased from Rs.3,000 to Rs.3,500. The pension amount of Rs.250 will be increased in January 2028 and another Rs.250 will be increased in January 2029 totaling to Rs.3,500. No State government in the country was giving pensions to elderly persons like in Andhra Pradesh. The YSRCP government was spending Rs.24,000 crore for giving pensions to 66 lakh while neighbouring Telangana was spending only Rs.12,200 crore for giving pensions to 43 lakh people. As many as 66 lakh elderly people are presently getting a pension of Rs.3,000 each, he said. Stating that the amount of Ammavadi scheme would be increased from Rs.15,000 to Rs.17,000 while three lakh people would get loans under YSR Zero Paisa Interest scheme. The amount of YSR Cheyutha was increased to 1.50 lakh from the existing Rs.75,000 and it would be extended in four phases. Assuring that all the eligible people, who are not having houses, would get house pattas, he said priority would be given to education, health, women empowerment, among other sectors. Referring to the welfare of farmers in the State, he said the amount of Rythu Bharosa was increased from Rs.67,500 to Rs.80,000 each benefitting 53 lakh farmers. The Rythu Bheema scheme would also continue for farmers. One new initiative introduced in the manifesto was declaring a habitat with dalit population of over 500 as a separate panchayat. Highlights in two-pagemanifesto Pension increased from Rs.3,000 to Rs.3,500 Rythu Bharosa increased from Rs.67,500 to Rs.80,000 Ammavadi scheme increased from Rs.15,000 to Rs.17,000 Three lakh women to get loans at zero paisa interest rate Kalyanamasthu and Shaadi Tofa will continue . YSR Bhima to gig workers.

BRS turns 23, vows to continue fight for people

Hyderabad: Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) on Saturday celebrated its 23rd foundation day amid the ongoing campaign for next months Lok Sabha elections in Telangana and with a vow to continue its fight for people. This is the first foundation day of the party after losing power to Congress in Telangana. BRS working president K. T. 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 .

Nominations of actor Babu Mohan, Manda Jagannath rejected in Telangana

Hyderabad : Former minister and actor P. Babu Mohan and former MP Manda Jagannath are...

CAT slaps Rs 50K fine on retired IPS officer for abusing legal process

HYDERABAD: A division bench of the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT), Hyderabad, comprising Dr Lata Baswara Patne (Judicial Member) and Shalini Misra (Administrative Member), has imposed a fine of Rs 50,000 on Rajnish Kumar Rai, a retired IPS officer and assistant professor at the Indian School of Management, Ahmedabad for abusing the legal process by repeatedly challenging his transfer. The fine is to be paid within one month from the date of the order to Sishuvihar, Women, Children, Disabled, and Senior Citizens Department in Hyderabad district. He was fined for repeatedly challenging his transfer on 12 June, 2017 from Shillong, Meghalaya, to Chittoor in Andhra Pradesh. Despite initial dismissals of his appeals by the tribunal and subsequent rejection by the Delhi High Court, Rai continued his legal battle by filing a Special Leave Petition (SLP) before the Supreme Court. CAT observed that Rai, being a highly educated individual and presently an assistant professor at IAM Ahmedabad, ought to have demonstrated better judgment. Rais pursuit of legal remedies across multiple forums, including the Gujarat High Court and the Supreme Court, in regard to the charge memo dated 16 February, 2023, which is currently the subject matter of the SLP before the Supreme Court, was deemed an abuse of the judicial process. The bench highlighted Rais misuse of legal avenues, noting his earlier failed attempts at redressal, including a dismissed original application (OA) at the CAT Ahmedabad Bench and an unsuccessful appeal at the Gujarat High Court. The CAT Bench emphasised that Rai, as a high-ranking officer, should serve as a role model for society. However, his actions were found to be contrary to the principles of judicial prudence and fair legal practice. In conclusion, the CAT Hyderabad Bench dismissed Rais current OA, citing its lack of maintainability, given the ongoing proceedings in the Supreme Court. The imposition of costs of `50,000 serves as a deterrent against the abuse of legal processes by individuals.

Telangana: Kadiyam Kavya, Srihari betrayed Madigas, says MRPS founder

HANAMKONDA: The founder and national president of the Madiga Reservation Porata Samithi (MRPS), Manda Krishna Madiga, demanded the resignation of Station Ghanpur MLA Kadiyam Srihari and appealed to the voters not to vote for Warangal Congress candidate Kadiyam Kavya. He alleged that Kavya and her father, Srihari, betrayed the Madiga caste. Speaking at a press conference in Hanamkonda on Friday, he alleged that Srihari and his daughter do not belong to the Madiga community, classified as a scheduled caste, and questioned the Congress over why it chose to issue a ticket to Kavya. Krishna alleged that in the past, Revanth, including during his time in the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), had questioned Sriharis caste. However, recently, the chief minister welcomed him into the Congress. He clarified that the BJP is not asking for votes in the name of religion or God and said that Revanth makes false assurances and promises in every public meeting to seek votes. He appealed to the voters of the Warangal Parliamentary constituency not to vote for the BRS and Congress and instead vote for the BJP because only Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured the sub-categorisation of the SCs.

Telangana HC hears case on officials inaction on Komati Kunta lake construction

HYDERABAD: The Telangana High Court heard a PIL and a writ petition on alleged inaction of Medchal Malkajgiri Collector and the HMDA Commissioner in curbing illegal construction activities within the Full Tank Level (FTL) of Komati Kunta Lake in Bachupally under the Nizampet Municipal Corporation limits. The writ petition was filed by Vasavi Infra Pvt Ltd and the PIL by Akula Satish, a resident of Quthbullapur mandal under Rangareddy district. During the proceedings, Satishs counsel raised concerns over the encroachment of Komatikunta Lake by Vasavi Infra, highlighting the completion of a massive multi-storied residential building within the lakes FTL. Despite representations made to relevant government departments, no action had been taken to address the illegal encroachment, the counsel alleged. In response, Mayur Reddy, senior counsel representing Vasavi Infra, contested the allegations, stating that the construction did not violate the FTL boundaries and offered to provide an undertaking to that effect. Reddy also noted that a significant portion of the constructed flats had already been sold. Expressing dissatisfaction with the lack of response from government counsels representing the Irrigation and Revenue Departments, the court directed Satishs counsel to submit photographs of the construction towers and a survey report prepared by relevant officials by April 30.

Telangana: 17 held for mobile theft; accused sold them in Sudan

HYDERABAD: In a joint operation, the South Zone Task Force police and the Central Zone DCP team apprehended 17 individuals, including five Sudanese nationals and a local mobile shop owner from Jagdish market and seized 700 mobile phones worth Rs 1.75 crore, including more than 30 recent version iPhones. The accused have been identified as Mohammad Muzammil, Syed Abrar, Syed Saleem, Pathan Rabbani, Mohammad Athar, Mohammad Zakir, Shaik Azhar, Mohamad Khaja Nizamuddin, Syed Layeeq, Shaik Azhar Moinuddin, Mohammad Shafi Babu, and J Yelamanda Reddy. The other accused Khalid Abdelibagii Mohamed Albadwi, Abdalelah Ahmed Osman Babiker, Aymn Mohammaed Salih Abdalla, Anas Siddig Abdelgader Ahmed, Omer Abdalla Eltayeb Mohamed are Sudan nationals. Hyderabad CP Kothakota Sreenivasa Reddy said, Recently, an alarming rise in mobile phone thefts has been witnessed. People returning home from a restaurant or movie or from metro stations to their houses are the prime targets of such thieves. Sometimes, the offenders also approach people in the pretext of asking for time or address. One must be alert and dial 100 if they notice something is suspicious. According to the police, J Yelamanda Reddy, the shop owner, is the middleman between the accused thieves and the Sudan national Khalid who receives the stolen phones and sells them in Sudan with the help of four other Sudan nationals. The CP added, All the stolen phones were collected by the final receiver - Mohammad Sahfi (Accused no. 11) - from his partners and were being sent to Reddys shop in Jagdish market. Reddy, who offers repair services in his shop, uses parts from the stolen phones to repair phones in his shop. The leftover phones would be handed over to Khalid to sell them in Sudan. The accused chose to illegally transport the phones through sea, by concealing them in frozen food packages. Khalid would further sell them at higher prices in Sudan. When asked if any cases of data theft linked to the phone theft have come to light, Task Force DCP S Rashmi Perumal said that the case is solely about cell phone thefts and so far, no such incidents have come to light. Meanwhile, the CP said that there is a similar gang in the city where young boys are being paid like regular employees for committing such thefts.

Spurious drugs recovered during DCA raids in Telangana

HYDERABAD: The Drugs Control Administration (DCA) conducted raids and seized spurious drugs at multiple locations in the state on Thursday and Friday. In a raid conducted at Alwal, DCA seized Oxifer-XT and Nurovis-LC tablets which were falsely manufactured under the FSSAI licence and falsely claimed to be a food product/nutraceutical, manufactured by Eminent Remedies at Nacharam. In another instance, DCA officials, detected certain medicines circulating in the market with misleading claims stating they treat kidney stones and Radio-Ulnar Neuritis. In another case, officials conducted raids on clinics operated by unauthorised practitioners and seized illegally stocked drugs intended for sale at two separate locations Kokapet and Musheerabad. G Srinivasulu, was running Sai Ram First Aid Centre in Kokapet village, had illegally stocked 28 varieties of drugs without licence. Similarly, Dr Ahmed Shahid Waris, a Unani medical practitioner, was operating at Quayyums Clinic and was selling 21 varieties of allopathic drugs without licence. The public may report any complaints regarding illegal activities concerning medicines through the DCA, Telangana Toll- Page 7 of 10 Free Number 1800-599-6969, which is operational from 10:30 am to 5:00 pm on all working days.

Telanagana: Jewellery worth Rs 1 crore stolen, role of driver suspected

HYDERABAD: The Jubilee Hills police on Friday registered a case after diamond jewellery worth Rs 1 crore, belonging to a retired employee, went missing. The victim - Baji Bhagwatula, lives with his wife, Sheela in Navaniram Nagar in Jubilee Hills. Baji Bhagwatula, who had returned from Bangalore with his wife on April 20, had taken a taxi from Shamshabad Airport. According to the complainant, the taxi driver made an unexpected stop at Vijetha Supermarket, located opposite the Film Chamber, to clean the vehicle. Subsequently, the driver dropped the couple off at their residence and even assisted the couple in unloading two suitcases from the cars trunk and bringing them into the house. However, it was only four days later, on the evening of April 24, that the complainant discovered the absence of a jewellery box containing three diamond necklaces and three pairs of diamond earrings. Baji suspects that the driver may have tampered with the trunk of the car during the unscheduled stop or while handling the suitcases.

Telangana: Alarm bells ring as water level in Manair reservoir nears dead storage

RAJANNA-SIRCILLA: The Mid Manair Reservoir (MMR), popularly known as the water hub for water distribution to other irrigation projects like Lower Manair Dam, Ananthagiri projects, is now nearing dead storage. As against the reservoirs original capacity of 27.55 tmc, only 5.9 tmc of water is currently available in the reservoir. Due to a prevalent heatwave condition, the water is evaporating, leaving nothing for drinking. Each day, about 50 cusecs of water is being supplied for drinking to Rajanna-Sircilla district and Gangadhar and Choppaddandi mandals of Karimnagar district through Mission Bhagiratha. However, around 182 cusecs of water is evaporating daily, revealed Irrigation Executive Engineer B Jagan. With no sign of any water source from the Sriram Sagar Project (SRSP) and the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP), if the water levels in the MMR fall further, drinking water supplied through Mission Bhagiratha would be majorly impacted. As per Mission Bhagiratha authorities, if the level of water in MMR reaches 3.82 tmc, an alternate action plan for drinking water supply will have to be devised. Irrigation EE B Jagan told TNIE that despite ceasing water supply for irrigation of Rabi crop, only 1.5 tmc of water was released to the Lower Manair Dam for drinking water purposes. According to weather reports, the temperature is scoring 400 C on a daily basis and on Friday, it touched 420 C in Rajanna-Sircilla and the MMR area. Due to decreasing water levels, villages connected to MMR have started to look like deserts.

Telangana: Hero teen came to factory to pick up friends mom

HYDERABAD: A 15-year-old boy was hailed as a hero after his quick thinking helped save the lives of five employees working in the Allen Homeo and Herbal Products factory, which was gutted in a fire accident on Friday evening. Sai Charan, who recently completed SSC, came to pick up his friends mother, who is working in the factory. Sai Charan came to the factory along with his friend. Both of them live in the same village. By the time Sai Charan reached the factory, his friends mother came out of the factory. However, her friends and co-employees were still in the ill-fated building. Then, Sai Charan took a ladder and stout rope, available near the place to help other employees. When I was ready with a ladder and rope, I saw six employees struggling to come out of the building, which was completely engulfed in fire. Out of six, one man came out on his own. Then I rescued the remaining five employees, Sai Charan told reporters. Not only locals, but top police and fire officials also lauded the bravery of Sai Charan. They called Sai a hero.

Chhota bhai Revanth, bada bhai Modi are the same: Chandrasekhar Rao

MAHABUBNAGAR: BRS president and former chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao said that voting either for chhota bhai (referring to CM A Revanth Reddy) and bada bhai (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) would be the same, as Revanth would accept whatever Modi says after the Lok Sabha polls. Addressing a gathering during a roadshow in Mahbubnagar on Friday, Rao alleged that both Congress and the BJP were trying to eliminate regional parties. Raos bus yatra entered on the third day. He recalled that the BJP and Congress had joined hands in the Bhuvanagiri municipality and dislodged the Bhuvanagiri municipal chairman belonging to the BRS. Later, the two parties shared the posts of chairman and vice chairman, respectively, Rao said. Rao alleged that Narendra Modi rendered injustice to the state in the last ten years. Modi failed to sanction new Navodya schools and medical colleges in the state, Rao said. He also alleged that Modi failed to implement Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan and Jan Dhan Yojana. Lakhs of government jobs were vacant in the Central government, and Modis assurance to create crores of jobs was not materialised, Rao pointed out. The BRS chief alleged that Revanth too failed to implement the assurances, like giving one tola (11 grams) of gold and Rs 2,500 per month to women and failed to increase the social security pension to Rs 4,000 per month. The Congress assured that it would provide scooters to girls. But it forgot about it and is looting the state now, he alleged. I have developed the state. The state is being ruined now. I will not tolerate this and fight it out, thundered Rao.

Japan's Sharp plans to set up $3-5 billion display fab semiconductor unit in India

Sharp is currently exploring potential locations for the manufacturing setup and has been in talks with state governments in Telangana, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. The company has also expressed its intention to establish the factory in India as a global manufacturing hub, serving key markets worldwide.

Telangana: FSSAI seals three godowns in Kothapet

HYDERABAD: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) Task Force team, recently constituted by the Commissioner of Food Safety, conducted inspections in the Kothapet Fruit Market area and identified three fruit vendors ripening the fruits by placing Ethylene Cellulose Wrappers in close contact with the fruits, which is in contravention of the provisions of the Act. While most of the stock was being ripened abiding to the norms, a certain quantity of stock was being ripened in a prohibited manner. Such stock worth Rs 55,000 was identified and seized in three godowns in Kothapet. The three fruit vendors whose godowns were sealed in Kothapet include - M/s Shaik Qayyum Trading Company (150 kg worth Rs 15,000), M/s SSSB Banana Fruit Company, (200 kg worth Rs 20,000) and (3) M/s ABC Fruit Company (200 kg worth Rs 20,000). Furthermore, notices have been served to the vendors and adjudication cases will be filed, according to a press release.

Telangana: Commercial properties can avail 5% rebate on Early Bird Scheme

HYDERABAD: The Early Bird Scheme offering a 5% rebate on payment of the entire current financial year (2024-25) property tax is now also extended to commercial properties and mixed-use buildings in Greater Hyderabad. With April 30, 2024 being the last date for the scheme, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has appealed property owners to take advantage of the EBS scheme and avail the rebate. Previously, the EBS scheme was limited only to residential properties. However, based on the representations and requests from various sections, GHMC has extended the scheme to commercial properties and mixed-use buildings. The rebate is given only on the current years tax and no rebate will be provided on arrears accumulating from previous years. This is a great opportunity for property taxpayers to save money, GHMC Commissioner D Ronald Rose said. He encouraged property owners to take advantage of the scheme by paying online through the GHMC website or My GHMC app. People can also pay at GHMC Citizen Service Centres, Mee Seva Centres or circle head offices from 8 am to 11 pm.

Telanagana: Maid, paramour held for stealing gold worth Rs 39L in employers house

HANAMKONDA: The Subedari police arrested a domestic helper, her paramour, and another woman involved in stealing gold ornaments weighing 55.5 tolas or 650 grams, valued at approximately Rs 39 lakh, at a residence in Santhosh Nagar in Hanamkonda. The trio was apprehended during a vehicle check near the Forest Office Junction on Friday morning while they were on their way to Hyderabad in a car to sell a portion of the stolen jewellery. The police recovered 47 stolen ornaments and seized the four-wheeler. According to Warangal CP Ambar Kishor Jha, the prime accused, Kathri Kalyani, who worked as a maid at the house of one Keesara Vikram Reddy, identified where the gold ornaments were stored. She then hatched a plan to steal the jewellery with the help of Sunitha and her paramour, Mudu. The CP said that Kalyani would enter the house to work, steal a small portion of the jewellery, exit, and hand it over to either Mudu or Sunitha before re-entering the house for work. This continued for several days. However, it was only on April 18 that Vikram and his wife realised the theft. However, by then, Kalyani was absconding.

7 districts in Telangana surpass 45C; IMD issues orange alert

IMD warns of heat wave in Telangana districts. High temperatures recorded in several areas. Residents advised to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities to safeguard health.

Telangana: Its a lie that BJP will scrap reservations, asserts Kishan Reddy

HYDEDRABAD: Accusing the Congress of spreading lies that the BJP will scrap reservations if it retains power at the Centre, Union Minister G Kishan Reddy on Friday alleged that the grand old party was resorting to falsehoods to win the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Addressing the media here, the state BJP president alleged that the Congress was the cause of all the problems that are plaguing the country. He questioned Congress leader Rahul Gandhi regarding the allocation of 8% of the 27% reservations to BCs along religious lines in the Manmohan Singh regime. Is it not true that it was decided to provide 15% reservation for Muslims? he said. Kishan said that reservations for Muslims in the state should be scrapped in order to provide justice to the BC community. He also said that it was the BJP who respected BR Ambedkar and honoured him with the Bharat Ratna. He also accused the Congress of insulting former prime minister PV Narasimha Rao. Asserting that the Indian National Congress has turned into Italian National Congress, the Union minister alleged that the grand old party would destroy the country if it comes to power. Referring to the chargesheet released by the Congress against the BJP, Kishan said that a chargesheet should be released against the grand old party and its six guarantees for the state. Modi public meeting in state on April 30 Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a massive public meeting on April 30 in Andole Assembly segment for the partys Zaheerabad candidate. According to BJP sources, Modi will also address meetings in Adilabad, Nagarkurnool and Sangareddy as well as a roadshow in Malkajgiri. Union Ministers Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh will also address public meetings in the coming days.

Telangana: Malla Reddy congratulates Eatala for winning Malkajgiri

HYDERABAD : Leaving his own party in shock, BRS MLA and former minister Ch Malla Reddy on Friday congratulated BJP Malkajgiri candidate Eatala Rajender on his impending victory in the Lok Sabha elections. Both Malla Reddy and Rajender were guests at a private function here on Friday. Seeing Rajender, Malla Reddy went up to his former colleague and gave him a hug. Anna, you are going to win, he told the BJP candidate and requested a photograph of them together for posterity. Malla Reddy also sought a few minutes in private with Rajender, who, at one point of time, was also minister in the previous BRS government. The sight left everyone present in shock, considering the fact that the BRS leadership is doing its best to win the Malkajgiri Lok Sabha seat. Incidentally, the BRS had won all seven Assembly seats that form the Lok Sabha constituency in the recent elections. For the Lok Sabha elections, the BRS has fielded Ragidi Laxma Reddy, while the Congress has nominated Patnam Suneetha Mahender Reddy.

Telangana: ECI censures Surekha for baseless allegations against KT Rama Rao

HYDERABAD: Taking a serious view of the comments made by Forest Minister Konda Surekha against BRS working president KT Rama Rao, the Election Commission of India (ECI) censured the Congress star campaigner for the misconduct and violation of the model code of conduct. The Commission, without prejudice to any order/notice issued or to be issued in the matter relating to MCC violations against Konda Surekha, hereby strongly censures her for the misconduct. The Commission also strictly warns her to remain careful in her public utterances during the MCC, ECI principal secretary Avinash Kumar stated. He said that Surekha was not only a star campaigner for the Congress but also a minister, which imposes an additional responsibility upon her to choose her words carefully while making any claim/allegation against any political party or leader. The ECI was dealing with a complaint lodged by BRS spokesperson Dasoju Sravan on April 8 that Surekha had violated the MCC by making derogatory and defamatory remarks against Rama Rao. He said that Surekha, during a press meet in Warangal on April 1, alleged that Rama Rao was involved in the phone-tapping case for which he would be sent to jail. Her allegations were unsubstantiated since the investigators never named Rama Rao as a suspect, Sravan said. Criticism of other political parties, when made, shall be confined to their policies and their programme, past record, and work. Parties and candidates shall refrain from criticism of all aspects of private life, not connected with public activities of the leaders or workers of other parties. Criticism based on unverified allegations or distortion shall be avoided the ECI stated.

Telanagana: Harish Rao vows to quit and not contest in bypolls if Congress implements 6Gs

HYDERABAD : BRS MLA and former finance minister T Harish Rao handed over his resignation letter to journalists near Martyrs Memorial at Gun Park on Friday and vowed not to contest in the ensuing bypoll if the Congress government implements the six guarantees, including crop loan waiver up to Rs 2 lakh, by August 15. Harish also announced that he was ready to give his resignation letter in the Speakers format. He then dared Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy to send his resignation letter through his staff to Gun Park. Earlier this week, the BRS MLA had asked the chief minister to come there and proposed that both of them should submit conditional resignation letters. If the government implemented its guarantees, Harish said he would resign as an MLA. However, if the government failed to implement the guarantees by August 15, then he wanted Revanth to step down as chief minister. Harish, who was accompanied by scores of party leaders, said: If the Congress implemented its six guarantees, then I will resign as an MLA and not contest in the bypoll. The interests of poor people are more important to me than politics. Sonia took responsibility of 6Gs: Harish He demanded that the Congress government implement its promises of Rs 4,000 pension to senior citizens, Rs 500 bonus for paddy and maize, Rs 15,000 Rythu Bharosa to farmers and Rs 2 lakh crop loan waiver. All these assurances were made by Congress leaders and they even gave bond papers for the same, Harish said. He recalled that AICC leader Sonia Gandhi too wrote an open letter to the people before the Assembly elections that she would take the responsibility of ensuring the six guarantees are implemented.

Be ready with resignation letter in prescribed format: Revanth Reddy

HYDERABAD: Accepting the challenge thrown by former minister T Harish Rao, Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy reiterated that he would waive crop loans up to Rs 2 lakh by August 15. Addressing Congress social media coordinators here on Friday, Revanth said that the government has already implemented five of the six guarantees within 100 days. I am accepting the challenge of Harish Rao. I will waive crop loans by August 15. Be ready with your resignation letter in the Speakers format, Revanth told Harish. Revanth criticised Harish for submitting a lengthy resignation letter, which he likened to a Seesa Padyam. Your Seesa Padyam will not be accepted by the Speaker. Please provide your resignation in the prescribed format. After August 15, take rest under chinta cheetu (tamarind tree) in Chintamadaka village, he told Harish. After August 15, Siddipetaku nee sani viragada avutundui (Siddipet will be ridden of your curse soon), the chief minister added. Revanth found fault with Harish for going to the Martyrs Memorial and alleged that he never visited it in the last 10 years. Whenever Harish wanted to hoodwink people, he would go to the memorial, the CM claimed. Revanth: Crop loan waiver to cost Rs 40,000cr The chief minister said that the government would require around Rs 30,000 to Rs 40,000 crore to waive crop loans up to Rs 2 lakh. Why do we need power if we did not waive crop loans? the CM said and added that the total crop loan amount was not bigger than the Rs 1 lakh crore corruption in Kaleshwaram project and the worth of the thousands of acres of land grabbed by BRS leaders in and around Hyderabad. He said that after the crop loans were waived, the government would pay the amount to banks within one year. Revanth also slammed the BJP and the RSS for their alleged attempts to scrap reservations to SCs, STs and OBCs. He termed the Assembly elections as a semi-final, in which the Congress defeated Bangladesh (BRS). He termed the Lok Sabha polls as the final, in which his party would defeat Pakistan (BJP).

Telangana: Revanth Reddy-Harish Rao rivalry a glimpse of future?

HYDERABAD : While the challenges and counter-challenges thrown by BRS MLA T Harish Rao and Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on farm loan waiver have caught the public eye, political observers say that beyond the cacophony lies strategy, ambition, and logic on the part of both leaders. As announced, Harish on Friday visited the Martyrs Memorial Park and handed over his resignation letter to journalists there. The journalists were asked to hand over the letter to the Speaker if the chief minister fails to fulfil his promise of waiving farm loans up to Rs 2 lakh and implement all the six guarantees promised by the Congress by August 15. In response, Revanth reiterated his commitment to waive farm loans. The dynamics behind the war of words that has been brewing ever since the Congress dethroned the BRS and formed the government in Telangana have intrigued political observers. The ruling party has consistently criticised the BRS for its alleged failures during its 10-year rule, particularly regarding the implementation of schemes and construction projects and the states mounting debt. Interestingly, it has been Harish who has been the primary respondent both in and out of the Assembly, while BRS supremo and former chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao have skipped the Assembly sessions. With the Lok Sabha elections under way, Harish Raos barbs on Revanth and the Congress government have come under focus. KCR has been active in roadshows and TV debates but has refrained from directly challenging the Congress governments failures. This has sparked talk that the BRS chief has missed opportunities to gain an advantage over the ruling party ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. Meanwhile, Harish has been aggressively targeting Congress on various issues, particularly those concerning farmers, water, power, and paddy procurement. Observers say that Harish Raos challenge is an attempt to shift the narrative from a Congress versus BJP contest to a Congress versus BRS battle and position the pink party as the protector of the states interests. They also say that Harish Raos proactive approach has brought him recognition as a future leader, while others in the BRS are gradually being perceived as non-serious. His challenging the chief minister is also boosting the morale of the BRS cadre and second-rung leaders. Observers say that the political rivalry between Revanth and Harish Rao will continue to shape Telangana politics for years to come, as both of them are in their early fifties. They are both ambitious, aggressive, and go-getters, and this has sparked discussions among BRS leaders that after KCR, it is Harish Rao who has achieved political success on his own.

Godavari Water scheme on cards to quench Hyderabad's thirst

HYDERABAD : Owing to rapid urbanisation in the Hyderabad Urban Agglomeration (HUA) region and a huge rise in the demand for water supply, the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) has formulated the Godavari Drinking Water Supply Scheme Phase-II, which aims to rejuvenate the centuries old twin water reservoirs - Osmansagar (Gandipet) and Himayatsagar, with Godavari being the priority. Accordingly, the project proposals were formulated through Water and Power Consultancy Services Limited (WAPCOS), a central government undertaking to draw 15 TMC of water from Kondapochamma Sagar in Siddipet. Out of which, 10 TMC is proposed for drinking water augmentation and 5 TMC for rejuvenation of Osmansagar and Himayatsagar reservoirs. The detailed project report (DPR) has been prepared for the project, estimated to cost around Rs 4,800 crore. The project proposals are under circulation for according to administrative sanction, with a funding option of Rs 3,500 crore loan assistance from Housing and Urban Development Corporation Limited (HUDCO) and a balance project cost of 40% share, i.e., Rs 520 crore, by the state government and a 60% share of Rs 780 crore by the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) agency. Further, the funding options are also being explored by the New Development Bank (NDB). Informal discussions were held with the officials of NDB and they were informed about the preliminary project proposals recently. Sources told TNIE that the project proposals consist of - laying of a 3,600 mm dia MS main for a length of 82 kilometres from Kondapochamma Sagar to Osmansagar, the construction of Water Treatment Plant (WTP) of 10 TMC with associated components of Clear Water Reservoirs, Pump House, Pumping Main and Master Balancing Reservoir at Ghanpur, Shameerpet, and interconnectivity arrangements between Osmansagar and Himayatsagar reservoirs with a provision of one small WTP at Janwada to supply drinking water to local areas. The state government has also proposed to fill up the six water bodies enroute - Shamirpet lake, Gandigudem Cheruvu, Bowrampet lake, Dundigal lake, Shambipur lake and Gowdavalli lake apart from rejuvenating the major water bodies, they added. Presently, drinking water to Greater Hyderabad and enroute villages and gram panchayats are supplied from drinking water sources - Osmansagar, Himayathsagar, Manjira, Singur, Krishna Phase-I, II and III from Nagarjunasgaar and Godavari Phase-I from Yellampally barrage - with a total installed capacity of over 600 million gallons of water per day (MGD). The last drinking water projects of Krishna Phase-III and Godavari Phase-I were commissioned during November/December, 2015. An additional source augmentation has not been added since 8-9 years ago. Due to rapid urbanisation in HUA, the water supply demand has increased substantially. Seeing this, the water board has appraised the state government about the urgent need for a new source augmentation project in Hyderabad. After a detailed review and discussions on the water supply situation, the government directed HMWSSB to formulate the project of source augmentation cum rejuvenation of Osmansagar and Himayatsagar reservoirs with Godavari waters immediately. The Kondapochamma Sagar reservoir has provisions to meet the drinking water needs of Hyderabad. Keeping in view the future demand for drinking water, the state government has proposed to interlink Kondapochamma Sagar, Osmansagar and Himayatsagar reservoirs so that they remain full and there is no interruption in drinking water supply to the city. This will ensure drinking water supply to the city at least until 2051.

IIIT-Hyderabad scientists develop tool to simplify English learning

HYDERABAD: Researchers at the Raj Reddy Centre for Technology and Society (RCTS), IIIT-H have designed a unique web-based tool to assist students and teachers in learning the English language, with an aim to make the language learning accessible to all. The English language learning application is a machine learning, AI-based web application, which has been developed to assist classroom learning as well as self-learning of the language through speech interaction. This machine learning model compares the speech of the expert and the speaker and gives an output with correct pronunciation. Arjun Rajasekar, senior research scientist, RCTS, speaking to TNIE, said, The tool can be used in a classroom setting as well as in self-learning exercise. In the classrooms, teachers can assess the performance of students with the help of the tool. In the self-learning mode, a student can use the expert speech which can be played repeatedly to learn or improve their language. In terms of application, when a student reads a sentence, the expert voice visualises the sentence and then gives an output with correct pronunciation for a mispronounced word with the expert voice, and gives feedback in the form of a score, which helps the students understand and improve the pronunciation of a particular word. The tool can save time and effort for teachers as they would not need repeat a word to correct the students. Where at times, the teachers themselves might not be proficient with the language and might find it difficult to explain the pronunciation, the tool can assist both teachers and students in improving their language skills. The tool can work on any device that has a browser, microphone, speakers and an internet connection either a desktop or a mobile phone. Researchers have decided to use a speech assessment model developed by Prof Chiranjeevi Yarra from the Speech Processing Lab at the Language Technology Research Centre (LTRC) in IIITH. The original model has the functionality of providing pronunciation feedback at four different levels the phoneme, emphasis, tonal, and possible pause locations of a sentence, while the current implementation focuses only on the syllable stress component. A pilot model test was conducted at a government high school in Moinabad in Rangareddy district in March, in which students in the sixth grade participated. We want to make English language learning reachable to a large number of audiences, especially those in rural areas. As of now, the tool is in pilot mode and we will be conducting more test runs in the coming times and based on feedback from teachers, modify the features and functionalities. Currently, the tool can record one sentence at a time. We are working to make it into long paragraphs and story-telling texts in the new modifications. The tool will eventually be made available in the public domain, Rajasekhar added. The tool as of now focuses on high school students from Classes 6 to 10, but scientists are also planning to make it available for primary classes in the future.

Telangana: Its Fryday in Karimnagar as temperature hits 45.6 degrees Celsius

HYDERABAD: The mercury levels in the state witnessed a steep rise as the maximum temperatures shot above 45 degrees Celsius on Friday, making it the hottest day of the year so far. The Telangana State Development and Planning Society report said that Karimnagar recorded the highest maximum temperature of 45.6 degrees Celsius, followed by Peddapalli and Nalgonda at 45.2 degrees Celsius. Jagtial and Yadadri Bhuvanagiri districts recorded a temperature of 45.1 degress Celsius while Wanaparthy was close behind with 45 degrees Celsius. Six districts in the state are in the red category of warning for high temperatures. The Hyderabad city also experienced a scorching day with the highest maximum temperature of 43.5 degrees Celsius being recorded at Chandanagar, while all the areas within the GHMC limits remained above 42 degrees Celsius. The IMD issued an orange alert in the state for the next five days as mercury levels are very likely to remain in the range of 4144 degrees Celsius across all 33 districts. It has also issued an extreme heat wave warning for districts of Nagarkurnool, Warangal, Narayanpet, Jogulamba Gadwal, Wanaparthy, Suryapet, and nearby areas. The IMD further said that owing to the multiple cyclonic circulations over Maharashtra, coastal Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh and south interior Karnataka, the state will also experience light to moderate rains. Thundershowers are very likely to occur at isolated places from April 28 to May 1, after which dry weather will prevail. The city is likely to experience partly cloudy sky with maximum and minimum temperatures around 41 degrees and 27 degrees respectively, for the next 48 hours.