AP Employees JAC urges EC to extend postal ballot time beyond May 8

Vijayawada : The Joint Action Committee of government employees service associations in AP on Tuesday urged the election commission to extend the time for casting postal ballots beyond May 08 as certain norm deviations occurred in Anakapalli and Chilakaluripeta constituencies. JAC leaders Bopparaju Venkateswarulu, Palisetti Damodara Rao and K Ramesh Kumar sent a letter to the chief electoral officer Mukesh Meena and others, urging them to clear the ambiguity surrounding the postal ballot voting, among the employees. The employees JAC further urged the election commission to set up more counters at the postal ballot facilitation centres. Please help enhance the postal ballot voter turnout in Anakapalli, East Godavari, West Godavari, Guntur, Nandyal, Kurnool, and Sri Satya Sai parliamentary constituencies wherein only 5,000 - 6,000 voters have cast their votes. In contrast, more than 10,000 to 15,000 votes were polled in the remaining parliamentary constituencies as of May 6, it said.

Pawan Kalyan promises to protect sanctity of Tirumala

VIJAYAWADA: Jana Sena Party chief Pawan Kalyan vowed to protect the sanctity of Tirumala, the abode of Lord Venkateswara. Addressing an election rally in the temple town of Tirupati, along with TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu and a few BJP leaders, the actor-politician lambasted the YSRC government. He accused TTD chairman Bhumana Karunakar Reddy and former chairman YV Subba Reddy of turning the holy pilgrimage into a resort. In the name of Srivani Trust, they have hiked the prices for darshan at the temple. Touts are ruling the roost in the holy hill shrine, he alleged. Pawan sought to know why people should vote for a person who insulted Lord Venkateswara. He said those who tarnished the sanctity of Tirumala will face the ire of the Lord Balaji in one way or another. Criticising the Tirupati MLA, the JSP chief claimed that Bhumana is taking 10 to 12% commission in TTD contracts. He questioned the need for Jagans image on the house site pattas given to TTD employees. He blamed YSRC for Amara Raja Industries shifting out of AP. I assure you that once the alliance forms government, Amara Raja will be back, he promised.

CEO clarifies on stopping distribution of aid

VIJAYAWADA: Asserting that the Election Commission of India (ECI) never stops the implementation of schemes, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Mukesh Kumar Meena on Tuesday clarified that the ECI only suggested the government to defer some of the schemes till the completion of polling in the State on May 13 and sought further clarifications concerning some other schemes. Speaking to mediapersons in his chambers at the State Secretariat on Tuesday, the CEO said the Screening Committee under the chairmanship of the Chief Secretary sent its recommendations to the CE through the CEO on implementation of various schemes. Almost 50 such recommendations have gone to the EC. The poll body accepted some and suggested that the others be deferred till the completion of MCC or till the conclusion of elections in the State. With regard to schemes like Cheyutha and Aasara, the ECI had asked for further clarifications and in the case of Vidya Deevena, the ECI had asked the government to defer its implementation till the completion of elections on May 13, he explained. 3.03 lakh cast votes through postal ballot Observing that the number of postal ballots to be polled in these will elections will be almost double compared to around two lakh polled in the 2019 elections, Meena said that of the total 4.30 lakh persons who opted for the postal ballot including home voting, 3.03 lakh (70%) exercised their franchise by Tuesday. Saying that the home voting and postal ballot voting commenced in the State from May 3 and 4, he said out of the total 4.30 lakh voters who applied for postal ballot, 3.20 lakh are employees, 40,000 are police personnel, 28,000 persons under home voting (voters aged above 85 years and persons with disabilities) and 31,000 persons under essential services category and remaining are sector officers and others. Among these, 2.76 lakh employees have exercised their franchise through postal ballot at facilitation centres across the state till Tuesday. He said that for reasons like the delay in employees getting their election duty appointment orders and others, the Commission extended the time for them to use their postal ballot voting till May 9. However, they will have to visit the voter facilitation centres in their respective constituencies, he said. Going by the complaints that employees utilising the postal ballot voting are being offered money for casting their votes, Meena, while expressing concern that it was a bad sign for the postal ballot facility with some employees accepting bribes for casting their votes, cautioned that stringent action will be taken against such persons. Besides being kept under suspension, cases will also be booked against them, he said. Informing that four people were arrested and cases were booked for distributing money to employees at the facilitation centres at Tadepalligudem of West Godavari district, the CEO said that a police constable with a list of government employees was caught for allegedly distributing money among postal ballot voters. The constable was suspended. In Ongole, after learning that money was transferred to the bank accounts of employees through UPI, the district SP took up the inquiry based on the call recording data and bank account transactions. During the preliminary investigation, it was noticed that some employees accepted money for their postal ballot and some of them after learning about the inquiry transferred the money back. Postal ballot voting extended till May 9 A total of 4.30 lakh voters applied for postal ballot. CEO Mukesh Kumar Meena explained that for reasons like the delay in employees getting their election duty appointment orders and other issues, the Election Commission of India extended the time for them to cast their vote through postal ballot till May 9

AP women panel complains to NWC about Naidu, Pawan

Vijayawada: AP State Womens Commission chairperson Gajjala Venkatalakshmi said their organisation will lodge a complaint with the National Womens Commission against the objectionable comments of Telugu Desam chief Nara Chandrababu Naidu against women in general as well as the mother of Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy in particular. On Tuesday, YSRC-affiliated womens forum leaders, including K. Samrajyam, Y. Durga Bhavani, Selvam Durga, and YSRC Women Doctors Cell president Ambati Naga Radhakrishna and others, complained to the Election Commission of India (ECI) and National Womens Commission that Chandrababu and Jana Sena Party president Pawan Kalyan had spoken about women and mother of the CM in an objectionable manner. The AP State Womens Commission chairperson accused the two leaders of wantonly insulting the mother of CM Jagan for meeting their own selfish electoral ends.

Annayya endorses Thammudu, says Pawan Kalyan will fight for people

VIJAYAWADA: Rallying behind his brother and Jana Sena Party chief Pawan Kalyan, former union minister and Megastar Konidela Chiranjeevi called on the people of Pithapuram to elect his brother as their representative in the State Legislative Assembly. In a video message, shared on social media platforms, for the people of the State and Pithapuram in particular, Chiranjeevi remarked that his brother entered the film industry half-heartedly, but he forayed into politics with great interest. Though Pawan is the youngest among us siblings, he is the first to stand by the people and serve them. Seeing him spend money from his own pocket to wipe the tears of tenant farmers, extend a helping hand to the jawans guarding our countrys borders and their families, and help fishermen in distress, one must think that such a leader is the need of the hour for our society, he said. Whenever my mother is anguished by the hardships being faced by my little brother, I only tell her that her son is fighting for the sake of several women and their childrens future. His deeds are honourable and far outweigh her worry, he said. Pawan will make your dreams come true: Chiru An emotional Chiranjeevi noted that any mother will worry when her son is working hard and any elder brother will be pained to watch his little brother being criticised. Chiranjeevi pointed out that Pawan Kalyan became a Jana Sainik (Peoples Warrior) as he believed that when good people remain silent while facing grave injustice, it is a great loss to democracy. My brother Pawan Kalyan is a powerful person, who dedicated his life to the ideals he believed in and the politics he wanted to do. If we want him to use his powers for the future of the State, we should all listen to his voice in the State Legislative Assembly. The people of Pithapuram should send Pawan Kalyan to the Assembly, if they want to see what a person, who strongly believes in Janame Jayam (people above all), could do. He will be your servant and soldier. He will fight for you and make your dreams come true. Press the button of the Glass in the election to elect Pawan, he said. According to sources, Chiranjeevis message was an attempt to consolidate the strong Kapu vote in the State and more particularly in Pithapuram. It may be noted that the Megastar enjoys a strong support base. . With #jsp # Andhra Pradesh election, 2024 pic.twitter.com/xiYRKgAi9t Ram Charan (@AlwaysRamCharan) May 7, 2024 Additionally, Jana Sena also received support from other film stars and members of Chiranjeevis family. Sharing his fathers message, actor Ram Charan wrote on X, Elect Pawan Kalyan, the leader who strives for your future. Dear @PawanKalyan gaaru as you are about to face the big battle of politics. As a member of your film family I hope you achieve everything you wish and keep all your promises. I am rooting for you and I am confident the entire fraternity is too. All the very best sir Hi Nani (@NameisNani) May 7, 2024 Film actor Nani, too, took to X to extend support to the actor-politician, and posted, Dear @PawanKalyan gaaru, as a member of your film family, I hope you achieve everything you wish and keep all your promises. I am rooting for you and I am confident the entire fraternity is too. All the very best sir.

PM Modi to target opposition in Telangana-Andhra today

These days we are witnessing election season in the country. Till now, voting has been completed in many states during the three phases and is going to be conducted in many more states. Along with this, vigorous election campaigning is also going on. An example of this is that PM Narendra Modi is going to attend three rallies and one road show in two states in the same day. Will address two public meetings in Telangana: Not only this, during his Telangana tour, Prime Minister Modi got darshan and worship done at Sri Raja Rajeshwari Swamy Temple in Karimnagar on Wednesday at 9.30 am. After this he left at ten o'clock to address an election rally in Karimnagar. After this he will go from Karimnagar to Warangal, where he will be seen addressing another public meeting. PM will also visit Andhra Pradesh from Telangana: After Telangana, PM Narendra Modi will address an election rally in Annamayya district of Andhra Pradesh on Wednesday. After this he is going to do a road show in Vijayawada of NTR district. According to the information, the meeting is scheduled around 2 pm at Kaliri near Rajampet, while the road show is also estimated to start around 5 pm from Indira Gandhi Nagar Stadium on Bandar Road in Vijayawada. Andhra Pradesh BJP has informed this in a post on 'X' on Tuesday. Reports say Wednesday's public meeting is set to be Modi's third public meeting in the southern state ahead of the simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly elections on May 13. BRO Marks 65th Anniversary with Milestone Projects, Technological Advancements, And More PM Modi Receives Warm Welcome in Ahmedabad: Voting Day Excitement PwC India Introduces New GenAI-Powered Tools for CFOs

Vishwa Hindi Parishad extends support to BJP for development of Indian languages

VIJAYAWADA: Vishwa Hindi Parishad has declared its support for the BJP in the current elections, following Prime Minister Narendra Modis commitment to the development of Hindi and other Indian languages. Prof Yarlagadda Lakshmi Prasad, the national president of Vishwa Hindi Parishad, announced the decision of the Parishad in a release, stating that their organisation stands behind the BJP. In alignment with this, the National Working Committee of Vishwa Hindi Parishad has instructed Lakshmi Prasad to conduct effective campaigning for the TDP, BJP, and JSP alliance in the State. Lakshmi Prasad, who is currently on a tour of eight Eurasian countries to advocate for Hindis recognition in the United Nations, is scheduled to return to India on Wednesday. In the first phase of his campaign, he will visit constituencies such as Vijayawada West, Kaikaluru, Undi, and Rajahmundry to express support for the alliance candidates. He will take part in campaign events at Anakapalli on Friday. Subsequently, he will visit Dharmavaram and Rajampet to work towards the victory of the alliance candidates.

Inspection of counting centres and strong rooms in Vijayawada

Vijayawada: NTR district collector S. Dilli Rao, Mylavaram Assembly Constituency returning officer P. Sampath Kumar, and Vijayawada Central Assembly Constituency returning officer Swapnil Dinkar Pundkar visited and inspected the counting and strong rooms located at Nova and Nimra College of Engineering and Technology, Jupudi, Ibrahimpatnam. These facilities will be used for the counting of votes in the seven assembly constituencies of the district and the Vijayawada Parliamentary Constituency, on Tuesday. After the polling on the 13th of this month, the EVMs will be stored in the Nova and Nimra Engineering College buildings. The officials discussed the route map to the counting centres and security arrangements in detail, providing various suggestions. They emphasised the importance of strong security measures for the EVM strong rooms, with strict security protocols in place. They also insisted on continuous surveillance through CCTV cameras. During their inspection, the officials checked the facilities for vote counting in the counting hall and ensured that the counting centre would be adjacent to the strong rooms. They examined the arrangements around the counting tables and the path the polling agents would take, taking into account safety and security measures.

Pawan Kalyan faces tough battle despite his cult following among youth

PITHAPURAM : Puruhutika Puram, which later became Peetikapuram, and now called as Pithapuram, located in the heart of East Godavari district, finds itself a prominent place on the pilgrim map of Andhra Pradesh as well the country. The Kukkuteswara Swamy temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, Puruhutika Devi temple, one of Ashta Dasa Shakti Peethas, and the Sripada Srivallabha temple attract devotees in good numbers. Andhra Pradesh LS polls: Pawan Kalyan to sound poll bugle from Pithapuram It, however, was not a big name on the political map of AP. A small Assembly constituency with less than 2.3 lakh electorate, the ballot battle of Pithapuram has now grabbed the entire nations attention. The 2024 election scheduled in less than a week now, is a different one. Now, Pithapuram has joined the likes of big battle constituencies of Kuppam, Pulivendula and Mangalagiri thanks to Jana Sena Party chief Pawan Kalyan contesting from the segment. Having lost the last elections from two places, the actor-politician with a cult following is focussing on making it to the State Assembly from Pithapuram, while the ruling YSRC wants to stop the vitriolic leader from being a thorn in their flesh in the legislative body. Here, the factor that decides the winnability of a candidate is caste rather than development. Among the several segments where the Kapu community holds a sway, Pithapuram is one. Consisting of more than 60% of the total population, a leader from the Kapu community has won the seat 12 of the total 16 times that it went to elections. In 2014, SVSN Varma, who belongs to Kshatriya community, won the election. As candidates of both the YSRC and the TDP-JSP-BJP alliance belong to the Kapu community, there is a possibility of split in votes of the community making the votes of other communities equally important for win. The YSRC has fielded sitting Kakinada MP Vanga Geetha from Pithapuram. Incidentally, Geetha won from the same segment in the 2009 elections from Praja Rajyam Party floated by Pawan Kalyans brother Konidela Chiranjeevi. Though a popular film star is in the fray, the contest is unlikely to be a one-sided one. It is not going to be an easy win for Pawan Kalyan. Unlike other communities, Kapus stand divided on political affiliation and this may turn the tide in favour of Geetha, opined S Satyanarayana, a rickshaw puller of Indira Nagar. TNIE visited the constituency and interacted with the local people to solicit views on who stands a good chance to win. Apart from local issues, the fishermen community have their own set of problems, and is likely to rally behind the alliance. Though we have been receiving Matsyakara Bharosa, the State government has not come forward to pay ex gratia for the fishermen who die at sea. They want the body as a proof to pay ex gratia, but how can we get it when people drown at sea? questioned a fisherman. While people choose to talk about the issues, there is a section, particularly youngsters, who have no other choice than their favourite star. When TNIE visited Uppada in U Kothapalli mandal on Sunday, groups of JSP activists from Anantapur and Machilipatnam visited the fishermens village to campaign for the JSP. We (the entire village) have decided to vote for Glass Tumbler. It is better for you to go and campaign in other places. Come back when our leader wins and we will celebrate, Patri Durga Rao, a young fisherman, to the JSP activists. This scenario, however, may not give an edge to the JSP. The working class and those who have benefited still vouch for the YSRC. We are living in the house, which was constructed with the government aid during the YS Rajasekhara Reddy government. After that, no government had helped the poor until YS Jagan Mohan Reddy became the Chief Minister. We are getting all the social welfare benefits now, said Srimanthula Sattibabu, a rickshaw puller. When pointed out that the tripartite alliance has promised more benefits and financial aid apart from development and employment opportunities, his fellow worker Raju was quick to add, We dont believe its promise. The TDP had promised much more doles in 2019, but it failed to fulfil them. When it comes to resolving the peoples problems, Raju said the major issue was lack of a Road Over Bridge (ROB) over the railway track that traverses through Pithapuram. Being a busy line connecting Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam, a good number of trains pass through and the vehicular traffic comes to a standstill whenever the railway gate is closed. It is sitting MP Geetha who has taken the initiative to resolve the problem as Pithapuram come under the purview of Kakinada. She has got funds sanctioned for the flyover. The land has also been acquired for it. If elections are not there, the flyover works would have started by now, Raju added. Another interesting factor on which Pawan Kalyans victory depends is the support being given by former MLA Varma, who at one stage revolted against the TDP leadership for allotting the seat to the JSP as part of alliance. Varma is campaigning for Pawan Kalyan, but how serious is he in extension of support is still doubtful. Will any leader hand over his constituency to another? questioned another local when asked about the former MLAs support to the JSP. For the JSP, the candidature of Pawan Kalyan from Pithapuram itself is an asset. Our leader suffered defeat at two places in the last elections. We wont let him down this time and he is set to enter the State Assembly, asserted a youth. N Krishnaveni of Chitti Karnala Street in Pithapuram, who works in a library, is different when it comes to casting her vote. She has nothing to do with whom she is voting, and which party it is. My two sons and my husband are supporters of Pawan Kalyan, and I will follow them, she said with a smile. Tummala Ramaswamy (Babu), JSP president of the erstwhile undivided East Godavari district, exuded confidence of Pawan Kalyans victory. Every section of people has suffered in Jagans regime. They are not going to vote for the YSRC in the elections, he asserted Not just Pawan Kalyan, our joint manifesto will ensure that NDA wins not less than five Assembly seats each in Kakinada, East Godavari and Konaseema districts. Lack of ROB causes traffic problem The major issue in Pithapuram Assembly constituency is lack of a Road Over Bridge (ROB) on the railway track that traverses through it. Being a busy railway line connecting Vijayawada and Vizag, a good number of trains pass through the town and the vehicular traffic comes to a standstill whenever the railway gate is closed

High Court directs AP to send fresh appeal to ECI on welfare funds

Vijayawada: The Andhra Pradesh High Court on Tuesday directed the AP government to send fresh representations to the Election Commission of India (ECI) underlining the importance granting permission for release of funds related to three welfare schemes implemented by the state government. The court posted the next hearing on the matter to May 9. A single judge bench headed by Justice B. Krishna Mohan heard during lunch motion a batch of petitions challenging the ECIs order denying permission for release of input subsidy worth 847.22 crore to affected farmers, Vidya Deevena funds of 610.79 crore for the benefit of students and YSR Cheyutha funds meant for women. Petitioners counsel C.V. Mohan Reddy submitted that the state government provides input subsidy to farmers who lose crops due to natural calamities, so that they can resume farm works and cultivate crops. The counsel submitted that due to drought during Kharif 2023, state government had decided to provide input subsidy of 847.22 crore. But after the Model Code of Conduct came into force, the state government, as stipulated, sought permission from the ECI to release the input subsidy. The petitioners counsel sought the High Courts intervention after the ECI refused to permit the release of input subsidy. With regard to the Vidya Deevena scheme, the senior counsel submitted that by March 1, state government transferred only 97.89 crore of the total 708 crore to be released to bank accounts of the beneficiary students mothers. ECI also denied permission for distributing the remaining amount of 610.79 crore. The counsel informed the court that non-release of the remaining Vidya Deevena amount is causing severe hardships to students and their mothers and sought the intervention of the High Court in the matter. Advocate general S. Sriram, representing the state government, submitted to the High Court that the input subsidy and Vidya Deevena are not new schemes, as the state government had been implementing them for quite some time. He contended that the poll code will be applicable only for new schemes and not for the existing schemes. ECIs counsel Avinash Desai justified the ECIs decision to deny permission for release of funds stating that such a decision has been taken in compliance with the norms of the poll code. Desai suggested that a fresh representation may be submitted by the state government with regard to the input subsidy and Vidya Deevena, explaining why these could not wait until completion of the polls, so that the ECI could review its decision. After hearing both the parties, the High Court directed the ECI to mention how it proceeds after receipt of fresh representation from the state government for release of funds. The court then posted the next hearing to Thursday 10.30 a.m.

Top Events Today: PM Modi's Andhra Rally, Uttarakhand Forest Fire Petitions, L&T's Q4 Results and More

Today, eyes turn to Andhra Pradesh as Prime Minister Narendra Modi gears up for an election rally in the state. Here's what's on the agenda for May 8: PM Modi's Rally: At 2 pm today, PM Modi will take center stage at a Lok Sabha election meeting in Annamayya district, Andhra Pradesh. Following this, he's slated to kick off a roadshow at the Indira Gandhi Municipal Stadium on Bandar Road in Vijayawada at 5 pm. Corporate Buzz: Keep an eye on Tata Power, L&T, and other companies as they unveil their Q4 results today. It's a day of financial insights and market movements. Legal Proceedings: Meanwhile, in the highest court of the land, the Supreme Court of India, there will be a hearing on petitions regarding the recent Uttarakhand forest fire incidents. Legal deliberations take the spotlight on pressing environmental concerns. DU's 'Run for Viksit Bharat': Delhi University's 'Run for Viksit Bharat' event adds a touch of social consciousness to the day. It's a call for action towards a developed India, engaging students in a healthy and meaningful endeavor. Tomorrow, the Supreme Court of India will convene to hear petitions regarding the Uttarakhand forest fires. These petitions allege that approximately 90% of the blazes were of human origin. Recent media coverage suggests that over 900 instances of forest fires have occurred in Uttarakhand over the past six months. On May 8, the University of Delhi (DU) will host a Run for Viksit Bharat event, covering a distance of 2.5 kilometers. This event, part of PM Modi's Viksit Bharat Program, aims to raise awareness about transforming India into a developed nation by 2047. Nearly 5,000 students are expected to participate in this event. Mark your calendars for May 8 as Larsen & Toubro (L&T) prepares to unveil its Q4 results. Media speculations anticipate that the company will announce a consolidated net profit of 4,109 crore for the January-March period. Lok Sabha Elections: Voting Percent Reaches 60.19% in Phase 3 till 5 PM Congress Names Sher Singh Ghubaya as Candidate for Firozpur Lok Sabha Seat Modi Creating Hatred for Political Gain, Says Sonia Gandhi in a Video Message

Tirupati agog over Naidu, Pawan roadshow

Yarlagadda to campaign for NDA in A.P.

Yarlagadda to campaign for NDA in A.P. - The Hindu

Yarlagadda to campaign for NDA in A.P. The Hindu

Andhra Pradesh suffered 5 years of ambiguity over capital city under YSRCP rule, allege TDP leaders - The Hindu

Andhra Pradesh suffered 5 years of ambiguity over capital city under YSRCP rule, allege TDP leaders The Hindu

Andhra Pradesh suffered 5 years of ambiguity over capital city under YSRCP rule, allege TDP leaders

Over the last five years, the financial situation of the State has deteriorated and only Chandrababu can rectify that, claims Magunta Sreenivasulu Reddy

PM Modi to address public meeting, hold roadshow in Andhra Pradesh on Wednesday

PM Modi to address public meeting, hold roadshow in Andhra Pradesh on Wednesday Prime Minister Narendra Modi will on Wednesday address an election meeting in Andhra Pradesh's Annamayya district and hold a roadshow at Vijayawada in NTR district. The meeting is scheduled around 2 pm at Kaliri near Rajampeta while the roadshow is expected to commence around 5 pm from the Indira Gandhi Municipal Stadium on Bandar Road in Vijayawada. ''Let's welcome our Prime Minister who is coming to Rajampeta to give an assurance for the aspirations of Andhra people,'' the Andhra Pradesh BJP said in a post on 'X' on Tuesday. Wednesday's public meeting is going to be Modi's third in the southern state in the run-up to the simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly polls on May 13. It comes in the wake of two recent meetings at Rajamahendravaram and Anakapalli recently, preceded by the first NDA election meeting at Boppudi village in Palnadu district's Chilakaluripeta mandal on March 17 after the announcement of the election schedule on March 16. N Kiran Kumar is the BJP's Lok Sabha candidate from the Rajampeta constituency. He will take on the YSRCP's P Mithun Reddy, while the TDP's K Sivanath will take on his brother K Srinivas from the ruling party in the Vijayawada Lok Sabha seat. As part of a seat-sharing deal among NDA partners, the TDP was allocated 144 Assembly and 17 Lok Sabha constituencies while the BJP will contest from six Lok Sabha and 10 Assembly seats. The Janasena will contest two Lok Sabha and 21 Assembly seats. Election results will be declared on June 4.

Modi to hold road show in Vijayawada today

Vijayawada: Prime Minister Narendra Modi would visit Vijayawada to take part in a road show on May 8, Wednesday, from 7 pm to 8 pm, as part of the BJP-TD-JS alliance's campaign for the May 13 elections in AP. As per the tentative schedule, PM Modi will take part in the road show from the Indira Gandhi Municipal Stadium to the Bench Circle -- a distance of nearly three km. Telugu Desam chief Chandrababu Naidu and Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan will take part in the road show along with the PM. NDA nominees from Vijayawada LS, Kesineni Vshvanath and candidates from seven assembly constituencies including Vijayawada Wests Y Sujana Chowdhary, Vijayawada Easts Gadde Ram Mohan, Vijayawada Centrals Bonda Uma, Tiruvurus Kolidapudi Srinivas, Jaggaiapetas Sreeram Rajagopal Tatayya and Mylavarams Vasantha Krishna Prasad and those from erstwhile Krishna and Guntur districts are also expected to take part in the road show. PM Modi was at Chilakaluripet in Palnadu district to address the NDAs first election meeting Prajagalam on March 17, shortly after the formal announcement of the BJP joining the Telugu Desam and Jana Sena alliance in AP. PM Modi had visited Guntur in Feb 2019 to launch several projects. Meanwhile, the police have erected barricades all along the route to regulate the people and ensure more safety to the VVIPs taking part in the road show. Following the recent incident of stone- pelting on chief minister Jagan Mohan Reddy while on his Bus Yatra, the police have beefed up security to avoid any incident. Nearly 5,000 police personnel including six IPS officers and APSP and CRPF personnel are being deployed. Vijayawada police commissioner Ramakrishna reviewed the security arrangements for the PM road show in the city and issued directions to the police officers and the personnel on VVIP duty. Accordingly, the route map was fixed for movement of VIPs. The police advised the people attending the road show to park their vehicles in the designated places. PM Modi is likely to address the people after the road show at Benz Circle. Modi will address a public meeting at Kalikiri from 3.45pm on May 8. The Kalikiri town falls under Pileru assembly segment of Rajampet LS, where former chief minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy is contesting as BJP nominee. Candidates from all the seven assembly segments of Rajampet LS etc will attend the public meeting.

Vijayawada: SVEEP Programme Held for Student Voters

Vijayawada: Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), Guntur, and Krishna districts field publicity officer R. Ramesh Chandra SVEEP (Systematic Voter Education and Electoral Participation) programme for students at the Chalapati Institute of Engineering and Technology (CIET). CIET principal Dr. M. Chandrasekhar released a pamphlet prepared for eligible voters in general and first-time voters in particular on the importance of voting. Later, students went in a procession along the Guntur-Amaravati Road to create awareness among voters of nearby villages on the need to exercise their franchise. SVEEP nodal officer K.V.V. Satyanarayana appealed to each and every voter to exercise their right to vote towards forming democratic and responsible governments.

NTR District Witnesses 90% Home Voting Sri Krishna Kummara

Vijayawada: NTR district collector S. Dilli Rao said the Election Commission has given the Vote from the Home option in the district to 1,052 elderly people aged above 85 years and people with disabilities. The collector, along with Vijayawada East constituency returning officer B.H. Bhavani Shankar inspected the home voting process held at Patamata P&T Colony on Tuesday. Dilli Rao said 32 teams consisting of a sectoral officer, micro observer, polling booth officer, armed personnel, and videography team have been visiting the applicants' houses so that the elderly and people with disabilities could vote. The collector disclosed that the district administration completed 90 per cent of home voting on Tuesday. The remaining 10 per cent voting will be completed by May 9 in the district, he added.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024 LIVE: PM Modi to address rally, conduct roadshow in Andhra Pradesh today

Lok Sabha Elections 2024 LIVE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address an election meeting in Andhra Pradesh's Annamayya district and hold a roadshow at Vijayawada in NTR district today. Lok Sabha ...

Government Staff Irked Over Arrangements for Postal Ballot

Vijayawada: Government employees coming under essential services in Vijayawada feel chafed that many of them had to run from pillar to post to cast their postal ballots on Tuesday. Election Commission of India (ECI) has provided them the facility of postal ballot, as they would be on election duties on May 13, when polling will take place in Andhra Pradesh for the assembly and Lok Sabha elections. A large number of government staff turned up at the NTR district sub-collectorate office, Tummalapalli Kalakshetram and other places to exercise their franchise. However, utter chaos prevailed at these places due to lack of help desks and mismanagement. Many employees went from one centre to another, while some decided not to use their postal ballot amid the chaos. One among the staff Jayamma (name changed) said she had come to cast her vote at the sub-collectorate facilitation centre. A municipal corporation school teacher, she is in her mid-fifties and a diabetic patient. She said, I was part of around 150 employees given election training at PB Siddhartha College. We were told we could cast our votes there. However, only 50 postal ballots were provided on Monday, May 6, leaving nearly 100 employees. Today, I visited four facilitation centres including Loyola College, Indira Gandhi Municipal Corporation (IGMC) stadium and Tummalapalli Kalakshetram. Finally, I cast my vote at the facilitation centre set up at the sub-collectorate, she explained. Jayamma observed that employees could have avoided such difficulties had the government made proper arrangements. Another employee Ganesh (name changed), serving as a flying squad member with the police department in Gannavaram, said, Although I submitted Form 12 to cast my vote through postal ballot in Krishna district, my application has been rejected. Later, Ganesh, a resident of Vijayawada East constituency, could cast his vote through postal ballot at the sub-collectorate facilitation centre.

AICC observer hopes comeback in Andhra Pradesh with Manoj Chauhan

VIJAYAWADA: AICC election observer for Andhra Pradesh Manoj Chauhan, who has been touring the State for the last 39 days, exudes confidence in the Congress party making a mark in the 2024 elections in Andhra Pradesh and emerging as the only peoples friendly party. In an interview with S Guru Srikanth, Manoj Chauhan said the vote share of the party will increase considerably. It is less than a week until the elections to be held in the State. How bright are the chances of Congress in Andhra Pradesh? Absolutely good chances. In the 2019 elections, our partys vote share was less than 2%, to be exact it was 1.7%. But, today it has increased to 10% and above. Since my visit to Andhra Pradesh at the end of March I have been covering various places across the State. There is an increasing feeling that Congress is better than other political parties. You mean to say the Congress party is making a comeback? Yes. It is being revived. We have an absolutely good chance in Kadapa Lok Sabha constituency and the party is also faring well in Tirupati, Kakinada, Rajamahendravaram, Bapatla, Nellore, and a few more seats. As regards to Assembly constituencies, we have a fair chance in 35 Assembly constituencies. Whom do you give the credit for the revival? Rahul Gandhi and the Congress Partys five NyayYuva Nyay, Nari Nyay, Sharmik Nyay, Kisan Nyay, and Bhagidhari Nyay. Also the 25 guarantees. Ours is the only party, which has promised the Special Category Status to Andhra Pradesh and made it part of the manifesto. No other party has done it. Further, we have a track record of implementing the promises made, as evident in Karnataka, Telangana, and other places. How do you see the other parties contending for power in the State? As you said, it is a contention for power. Be it NDA or YSRC, they are only looking to get power. But Congress wants to serve people. There is a difference. During the election rally in Dharmavaram, Union Home Minister Amit Shah posed a question, who will be the PM candidate of the INDIA alliance? Rahul Gandhi. When will the star campaigners of the Congress party be in the State? From May 7 to 11, a host of Congress leaders including Rahul Gandhi, AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge, Telangana CM A Revanth Reddy, Karnataka deputy CM DK Shivakumar will address election rallies.

Ex-IAS officer says hes victim of Land Titling Act

VIJAYAWADA: Former IAS officer Dr PV Ramesh claimed that he became a victim of the Andhra Pradesh Land Titling Act as the revenue officials refused to mutate the land inherited from his father to his name. Ramesh took to the social media platform X on Monday and posted that he became a victim of the Act which is yet to come into force and expressed his concern that how come farmers and poor people can render justice as revenue officials rejected his application without opening it. Ramesh post read, I am a direct victim of the #AndhraPradesh #LandTitlingAct. The revenue authorities refused to mutate the patta lands of my deceased parents in Vinnakota village of Krishna district. Tahsildar rejected my application. Documents sent by RDO post were returned unopened. I am being denied rights to my parents lands before the Act came into force. If this is the condition of an officer who has served Andhra Pradesh for 36 years as an IAS officer, the plight of common farmers cannot be imagined. Condemning his claims, the revenue officials issued a press release in which they explained that lands which are being claimed by Ramesh are in joint cultivation with other aqua farmers and he failed to appear for the survey of the lands constituted by Krishna district Collector. PV Ramesh failed to submit the link documents of 11 acres of land which is being claimed to be inherited from his father. During the ground level inspection, it is found that 3.29 acres of assigned lands and 0.29 acres of Poramboke land is merged with the fish tank (claiming to be Rameshs property). It is imperative to identify and divide the lands before mutation, the revenue officials release said.

Manifestos of political parties elicit mixed views from electorate

VIJAYAWADA: While the political arena in the State is heating up with elections just a few days away, people are also closely watching the contest between the ruling YSRC and the Opposition TDP-JSP-BJP alliance. As both sides released their respective manifestos, Navaratnalu Plus and Prajagalam, TNIE interacted with people from all walks of life to understand their views on the poll promises. Harin Reddy, an employee at a private hospital in Vijayawada, said the YSRC fulfilled almost all the promises made in 2019, unlike the TDP, which removed its 2014 manifesto from its website soon after coming to power. In the run up to the 2014 elections, the TDP promised to provide unemployment dole to the youth. But they didnt. On the other hand, the YSRC vowed that pension will be hiked in phases. The party kept its word. Similarly, YSRC also implemented schemes like Cheyutha, Vasathi Deevena, Vidya Kanuka, and Kapu Nestam. Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy delivered on his promises, Harin opined. Further, he also pointed out that more treatments were being performed at government hospitals compared to private hospitals because of Aarogyasri. In complete contrast to Harins views, Rambabu, a street vendor, criticised Jagan for proposing three capitals. Amaravati was destroyed because of Jagan, he rued. On the manifesto, he said Jagan has done nothing except for hiking pensions to Rs 3,000 from Rs 2,000. That too, he did not do it in one go, he noted. On TDP-JSPs promise to provide free bus rides for women across the State, an auto driver expressed that it would affect his business. Nonetheless, he felt that if Chandrababu Naidu becomes the chief minister, he will ensure that auto drivers dont face losses. Naidu has a different way of tackling things. Industries will be established if Naidu comes to power, resulting in us earning good auto fares, he argued. However, he said regardless of who wins, measures have to be taken to ensure that auto drivers can eke out a living. Another auto driver, Nagaraja, found fault with political parties promising to distribute money. He said, People dont just need money. Governments can distribute pensions for old people, but others need easier access to education, infrastructure development, and new laws for better governance, he opined. Ahmed, a cool drink shop owner, expressed his reservations over the TDP forming an alliance with the BJP. Voicing his concerns, he said, Earlier, I wanted to support the TDP. I believe that Naidu can develop Vijayawada if he comes to power. However, since the TDP has now tied up with the BJP, I think will support the YSRC. Asked about the reason for his concern, he said, Ever since the BJP came to power, it has created religious rifts. We are witnessing new political dynamics, something we had not seen before. If we choose BJP, we Muslims fear there will be new political changes in our State too. Meanwhile, an elderly woman from Vijayawada, Kumari, felt that welfare schemes will continue only if Jagan wins a second term.

Jagan suffers from mental disorder: TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu

VIJAYAWADA: Stating that the frustration of Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy is reaching to its peak after witnessing the huge response to the public meetings of NDA, TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu remarked that the assurances given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the people on the future of the State have shaken the Tadepalli Palace (CM camp office). Addressing a public meeting at Anakapalli on Monday, Naidu said that both Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah have already clarified as to why the alliance has been formed. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is the oxygen for the State which is on ventilation struggling hard for survival, he asserted. He reiterated that the three partiesTDP, JSP and BJP have joined hands with an aim of completing the Polavaram Project, developing Amaravati as the State capital and to safeguard Telugu language. Promising to take the State on a progressive path, he called upon the people to chase the psycho chief minister out of Andhra Pradesh. The TDP chief further mentioned that Narendra Modi, who has already transformed the country into the fifth largest economic system in the world, will take the nation into the highest position after winning the elections. The alliance too has formulated a vision for our State and making it as Viksit Andhra Pradesh is my dream. Indians should be in the number one position in the world, Naidu said and reaffirmed that the tripartite alliance is going to win 160 Assembly segments and all the 25 Lok Sabha seats in the State. Terming the Chief Minister as the traitor of North Andhra, the former chief minister said Jagan did not spend any funds for the development of the region. The elections are a battle between dharma and adharma and also between democracy and dictatorship, he said and felt that the development of North Andhra is possible only with the NDA. Earlier in the day, addressing a meeting at Panyam of Nandyal district, Naidu expressed doubt that Jagan is suffering from narcissistic personality disorder due to which the people of the State are the worst-affected. Jagan has been suffering from Narcissistic personality disorder and those who have this problem want the people to rigidly follow what they say and if anyone opposes them such persons will be attacked or even be killed. A doctor has admitted that Jagan is adopting this. Worlds notorious personalities like Hitler, Bin Laden, Kim of North Korea and Talibans too had similar problems, Naidu said in a sarcastic manner. Jagan derives malicious pleasure when the people suffer a lot and he enjoys while people are on the deathbed, Naidu remarked. Even when a senior IAS officer is facing problems with the Land Titling Act, one can easily imagine the plight of the common man, the TDP supremo said while pointing out the problems raised by the retired IAS officer PV Ramesh, earlier in the day with regard to the mutation of his land. Naidu informed the gathering that cases have been registered against him for pointing out the lapses in the Land Titling Act and dared the State government to initiate whatever action possible. Setting on fire the copies of Land Titling Act and the pattadar passbooks carrying the photos of Jagan, the TDP supremo expressed confidence that the NDA is going to win all the 52 Assembly segments in Rayalaseema. Jagan is facing stiff opposition even in his home segment Pulivendula, due to which he is now under frustration, he maintained.

ECI appoints Harish Kumar Gupta as Andhra Pradesh police chief

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

ECI defers proposals to release aid for farmers & Vidya Deevena scheme

VIJAYAWADA: The Election Commission of India (ECI) issued instructions to the Revenue Department to defer depositing Rs 847.22 crore towards input subsidy for the farmers, whose crops were damaged due to drought in the Kharif season in 2023. Similarly, the poll panel also deferred the release of Rs 610.79 crore for the students belonging to SC, ST and OBC communities for the academic year 2023-24 under Post Matric Scholarships (Vidya Deevena) till the completion of election process in the State. The Revenue Department had sent the proposals to the Screening Committee to accord administrative sanction for an amount of Rs 847.22 crore, including Rs 784.57 crore for agriculture and Rs 62.65 crore input subsidy to 6.95 lakh affected farmers. Recommendations of the Screening Committee, constituted to examine the proposals related to Model Code of Conduct (MCC), were sent to the ECI. Subsequently, the poll panel stated that the proposal be deferred till the completion of elections in the State. The ECI also asked the Social Welfare Department to furnish details of the urgency of the proposal to release additional budget release order (BRO) for Rs 149.55 crore and also to furnish details of the urgency of another proposal to clear the bill to the tune of Rs 33.55 crore. Input subsidy to help over 6 lakh ryots The Revenue Department had sent the proposals to the screening committee to accord sanction for Rs 847.22 croreRs 784.57 crore for agriculture and Rs 62.65 crore input subsidy to 6.95 lakh farmers

YSRC demands clarification on five issues from PM Modi

VIJAYAWADA: On the day of Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to Andhra Pradesh, the YSRC launched a digital campaign, demanding answers for five critical issues in the State. Taking to social media platform X, (formerly Twitter), all the leaders spoke in unison and posted, @ncbn (TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu), there are five deceitful points that you are uttering repeatedly. If its the truth as you claim, then the people of Andhra Pradesh want your boss Mr Modi to declare that they are a part of the joint agenda of the BJP-TDP-JSP alliance. If Mr Modi fails to clarify on these issues, then its proven that you are a hypocritical and unprincipled illusionist whose promises are as unreliable and two-faced as his politics. Over 120 YSRC leaders, including Vishakapatnam MP candidate Botcha Jhansi and MLA Avanthi Srinivasa Rao, shot off tweets challenging PM Modi to address these pressing concerns. The five issues that the ruling party demanded the Prime Minister to include in the agenda of the alliance were -- the NDA alliance in Andhra Pradesh will not remove 4% reservation for Muslims under the OBC quota; it will not privatise the Vizag Steel Plant; CAA-NRC will not be implemented in its current form and Muslims will be included; Andhra Pradesh will get the Special Category Status; the TDP and its allies will repeal the Land Titling Act as promised in their manifesto, by directly disregarding the Central government guidelines that led to the formation of this Act. PM Modi accuses YSRC & Congress of corruption

Seeds of development will bear fruits: CM Jagan Mohan Reddy

VIJAYAWADA: Asserting that May 13 will decide the fate of Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Monday appealed to the people to think about what the TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu had not done for them and the State when he served as chief minister for 14 years and what he (Jagan) had done in the last 59 months. He said: If you believe in Naidu, it will be like awakening Chandramukhi to suck your blood. It will be like putting your head in the mouth of Anaconda. Addressing election rallies at Repalle in Bapatla district, Macherla in Palnadu district, and Machilipatnam in Krishna district, he said a vote for TDP in the next weeks election will put a full stop to the plethora of welfare schemes, while choosing YSRC will help continue the saga. Elucidating that he planted saplings of happiness in every household, took care of their welfare, and development of the State five years ago, Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy asserted that they will grow into most remarkable trees and bear fruits in the next 10 to 15 years, elevating the lives of the poor on a very big scale. YSRC fulfilled 99.5% of election promises in last 59 months: Jagan Likening himself to a committed farmer, he said that the people had given him the responsibility of cultivating the agricultural field known as Andhra Pradesh five years ago and he sowed a slew of welfare schemes and reforms in the education, administrative, and medical health sectors. He said that the ensuing elections are not just meant for electing MLAs and MPs, but they will also decide the peoples future for the next five years. The YSRC has fulfilled 99.5% of its election promises and implemented various welfare schemes in the last 59 months, while Chandrababu Naidu dumped his manifesto after winning the elections in the past. Chandrababu Naidu turned vicious on Land Act: Jagan Mohan Reddy Jagan said that his government has disbursed `2.70 lakh crore through DBT under various welfare schemes and delivered social security pensions at the doorstep through the volunteer system, empowered women, farmers, and self-employed persons, besides taking healthcare to the doorstep of people. He further said his government created 2.31 lakh government jobs and distributed 31 lakh house site pattas, besides constructing 22 lakh houses for weaker sections. The YSRC president listed out various reforms introduced by his government in education and health sectors, revamping government schools with better infrastructure, introducing English medium, bilingual textbooks, implementing Amma Vodi, Vidya Deevena, Vidya Kanuka, digitalisation of classrooms, introduction of IB and CBSE syllabus, village clinics, family doctor, increasing 108, 104 services. Jagan lambasted the TDP chief and his friendly media for their disinformation campaign on key issues, unmindful of the fact that it destroys the stature of the State. On the disinformation campaign launched against the AP Land Titling Act by the TDP through phone calls and messages, he said that even TDP MLA Payyavula Keshav highlighted the importance of the Act in the Assembly and the good it would do for the landholders. Elaborating, Jagan said the Act was meant to give a guarantee of dispute-free ownership of land to the landholders by updating records, mutations, and subdivisions, and in the event of disputes, the owners would be paid compensation and insurance. My government initiated resurvey after 100 years to set right the records and save time and money to the landholders who are suffering from litigations, he clarified, adding that the resurvey, being undertaken by nearly 15,000 surveyors, has already been completed in 6000 villages and would be completed in the next two years in the rest of the revenue villages. BJP doesnt agree with Naidu's promises: Jagan Mohan Reddy

Krishna district Collector inspects arrangements at strong rooms and counting centres

VIJAYAWADA: District Election Officer and Krishna district Collector DK Balaji conducted a through inspection of Krishna University on Monday in preparation for the General Election 2024. The arrangements for the strong rooms and counting centre were examined to ensure smooth operations during the electoral process. Special attention was given to the barricading arrangements for the safe movement of counting staff and agents from the strong rooms to the counting hall. In particular, parking spaces for vehicles transporting Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) from various constituencies to the counting centre were assessed and measures for levelling and securing them were discussed. He instructed the officials that specific parking arrangements for constituencies like Pamarru and Pedana on the west side of university buildings, and Machilipatnam and Avanigadda in front of the main buildings were inspected. The Collector provided valuable suggestions regarding plastering and paving works, as well as the construction of roads to facilitate vehicular traffic. Emphasising the importance of preparedness even in adverse weather conditions, the Collector stressed the need for adequate lighting, provision of essential facilities such as fresh water, food supply, and mobile toilets for polling staff and vehicle drivers, and ensured uninterrupted power supply.

Telangana: Habitual burglar held, 21 tolas of gold, Rs 1.5 lakh cash,1 kg silver seized

HYDERABAD : Based on a tip-off, the Pocharam IT corridor police on Monday arrested a habitual house burglar for allegedly stealing gold and silver ornaments from a residence in Jodimetla X Roads. They also seized 21 tolas of gold items, 1 kg of silver articles and Rs 1.5 lakh in cash from his possession. The accused was identified as Sheelam Shetti Venkata Ramana alias Srinu, a native of Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh. The police said the sister-in-law of the complainant had locked the main door of their house in Swarnagiri Colony of Jodimetla before leaving at 10 am on April 26, but found the lock broken upon her return at 7.45 pm on the same day. She subsequently discovered that 14.96 tolas of gold items and 28 tolas of silver ornaments were stolen from the residence. The police said Srinu was previously involved in about 250 cases in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh and was even sent to jail. For three to four years after his release in 2014, he ran a tiffin centre but resorted to crimes again, for which he was sent to jail in April 2023. Upon his release, he started committing such offences again. According to the police, Srinu would use disguise to avoid being detected and would target locked houses and plan exit routes. During the day, he surveyed different areas on foot and upon finding a locked house, he would forcibly enter by breaking locks with an iron rod. Inside, he would search for valuables in cabinets, iron boxes under beds, and other hiding spots, they added.

Heatwave conditions likely in 21 mandals of Andhra Pradesh

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

Andhra Pradesh suffered ambiguity over capital city for five years, say TDP leaders

People of the State have lost confidence on Jagan Mohan Reddy, they allege

Andhra Pradesh suffered ambiguity over capital city for five years, say TDP leaders - The Hindu

Andhra Pradesh suffered ambiguity over capital city for five years, say TDP leaders The Hindu

Police Seize 10 Lakh Near Election Check Post in Ibrahimpatnam

Vijayawada: In Ibrahimpatnam mandal, Guntupalli, the local police seized a sum of 10 lakhs and deposited cash from an individual near an election check post. The incident unfolded on Monday afternoon when CI M. Satyanarayana, along with SI B. Anusha and SST incharge M. Srinivasa Rao, intercepted a person carrying a black bag. Upon interrogation, the individual identified himself as Lakshmana Rao from Kanchikacharla village, NTR district. According to the police report, Lakshmana Rao claimed that he was tasked by Jonnala Rambabu's father to accompany him to Vijayawada's SBI to deposit the cash. However, lacking proper documentation for the large sum, the police seized the money and handed it over to the Returning Officer for further investigation.

Modi Urges Voters to Bring NDA to Power to Develop AP

Vijayawada: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called upon the people of Andhra Pradesh to elect NDA nominees to power in the present polls so that a double-engine government can be set up. AP has Modis guarantee, the Telugu Desam chiefs leadership, and Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyans commitment to develop the state, Modi said while addressing a large gathering of the people at Vemagiri near Rajamahendravaram on Monday. Modi said that after the May 13 elections, AP would witness a new chapter in its political journey as we will form the governments in the state and at the Centre. He sounded confident that wherever elections for assemblies were held, including in Odisha, the NDA would be elected to power. The PM turned critical on the Congress and the YSRC government in AP by saying that even as the elections were underway, the Congress leader admitted defeat. The YSRC government in AP was unable to develop the state in the last five years. He said that when Chandrababu Naidu was in power, the TD chief led AP to development, while the YSRC government made AP to fall into the debt trap. Appreciating global recognition to AP youths' technological skills, he said the YSRC government did no work in the guise of development, involving in corruption and delaying the execution of several central schemes. He said that the ED attached hidden wealth of 1.25 lakh crore so far, and he claimed that this was given back to the poor who owned it. The PM said he was consulting with legal experts to find ways to curb black money and bring it out from its hideouts, so as to give this to the poor, and claimed that it was Modis guarantee to the people of the nation. He slammed the YSRC for reneging on its promise to prohibit liquor and alleged that it was allied to the sand and liquor mafia and halted the development. The YSRC failed to develop even a single capital despite assuring the people to develop three capitals, he said, and said that the Jagan Mohan Reddy-led government has failed in financial mismanagement. Modi also criticised the YSRC government, saying that it failed to complete the Polavaram project even as the Centre allotted `15,000 crore. While addressing another public meeting at Anakapalli, the PM listed out several projects that were in progress including development of a 4,000 km road network to a length of 9,000 km. He was critical of the YSRC for not giving land for construction of an administrative office for a separate railway zone for Visakhapatnam. It derailed development, he said. Modi also took potshots at Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy for not completing the Uttarandhra Sujala Sravanthi project started by late YSR and alleged that though Jagan Mohan Reddy inherited the political legacy of his father, he failed to take up the works. He promised to address the problems of the fisherfolk and sugarcane farmers once the NDA was elected to power. In closing remarks, Modi asked the people to convey his Namaskarams to their family members and others. Addressing the public at Anakapalli, Telugu Desam chief N. Chandrababu Naidu said the YSRC government has derailed the progress of AP. adding that Visakhapatnam had become a place for crime, corruption and looting. He said, Our manifesto is getting good support from the people. We will win 25 Lok Sabha and 160 Assembly seats. Addressing the public at Rajamahendravaram, Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan listed out several central schemes, which were renamed and being implemented as state schemes by the YSRC government in AP. He thanked PM Modi for identifying several top personalities including artists and scientists who were experts from several parts of AP and honoring them with Padma awards.

Trust in Fairness of Elections Is Waning: CM Jagan

Vijayawada: Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has said the belief that all the elections will go well is waning due to present developments in the state and N. Chandrababu is evil incarnate, as he disrupted the ongoing welfare schemes. He said, Their conspiracies are reaching new heights. We press buttons to release benefits to the people, the Opposition applies pressure on the Election Commission to halt the welfare schemes. Even the money that should go into the accounts of our sisters is being stopped by the misguided steps of Chandrababu. Are there anything more wicked than these, the Chief Minister asked as he addressed three public meetings as part of the YSRCs election campaign in Repalle, Macherla and Machilipatnam on Monday. Five years have passed since we took power. The seeds planted in every household, village, town and social class have been nurtured and cultivated. Over the next 15 years, you will witness these crops mature into strong trees, reshaping the destinies of the poor, he said. Jagan Mohan Reddy has cited the hypocrisy of Chandrababu Naidu running a fake campaign against the Land Titling Act, which was endorsed by his partymen during the Assembly Session. Over 17,000 revenue villages are being resurveyed and we have deployed 15,000 surveyors along with the installation of rovers. Through GPS technology, boundary stones have been positioned. The total cost for this projects implementation is Rs 2,000 crore. We have completed 6,000 villages so far out of the 17,000 villages in the past 2 years, and we shall complete the rest of the villages and update the records, the Chief Minister stated. In the 6,000 villages where the resurvey has been conducted, has any farmer lodged a complaint regarding any unsolved land dispute, asked Jagan Mohan Reddy while taking a dig at vested interests in the regional media, asking them to inquire into it. The CM pointed out, TDs Payyavula Keshav in the Assembly described the Act as a beneficial step and I urge Chandrababu Naidu to review the records. Despite the ETV channel's reputation for disseminating misinformation, it aired programmes highlighting the Act's advantages and the benefits to the farmers. But they removed this archived content from YouTube and continue to spread falsehood. Noting that TD was running a fake narrative through IVRS calls, Jagan Mohan Reddy said, I don't think the opposition parties truly understand the law that grants farmers and landowners permanent rights to their land. People are hesitant to engage in buying or selling land due to various issues such as discrepancies in land dimensions, lack of proper subdivision, failure to update records, and missing mutations. In the event of any disputes arising after the survey, the government will provide compensation with the help of title insurance. Efforts are under way to incorporate this provision into the Act. Jagan Mohan Reddy said, The Opposition has also run a fake campaign by accusing the YSRC of smuggling drugs worth Rs 2 lakh crore when a container was caught in Vizag port a few months back. However, the investigation revealed that the container in question belonged to the relatives of Chandrababu Naidus sister-in-law (BJP chief Daggubati Purandeswari). Since then, there is no news over the container. The Opposition has also circulated rumours about the widespread sale of ganja at Kirana stores throughout the state. Both Chandrababu Naidu and Pawan Kalyan are spreading these false claims. I urge you to respond vehemently to them through your votes. They fail to understand the repercussions of disseminating such misleading propaganda, the Chief Minister said.

AP Womens Commission Takes up Harassment Case Against TD Leader

Vijayawada: AP State Women's Commission chairperson Gajjala Venkatalakshmi has taken up a suo moto case against Kankipadu TDP leader Gummadi Kiran for harassing a woman at Penamaluru in Krishna district. The chairperson has written a letter to Krishna district superintendent of police, directing that strict action be taken against the accused for sexually harassing the woman. At the same time, she underlined that the identity of the victim should be kept confidential. Venkatalakshmi said the AP Womens Commission is always available to protect harassed women.

YSRCP and alliance manifestos silent on urban and rural development, alleges Taxpayers Association

Traffic issues in the two major cities of the State, Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam, do not feature at all in them

SBI organises awareness programme on cyber frauds in Vijayawada

Police declare red zone in Vijayawada in wake of Modis election campaign

About 5,000 police force would be deployed for bandobust and traffic diversions announced as part of security, says Police Commissioner P.H.D. Ramakrishna

Police declare red zone in Vijayawada in wake of Modis election campaign - The Hindu

Police declare red zone in Vijayawada in wake of Modis election campaign The Hindu

IUML AP lodges complaint against false propaganda

Vijayawada: Basheer Ahmed, the president of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) in Andhra Pradesh, asserted that IUML AP is actively participating in the state elections with its own candidates, with thirteen nominees vigorously engaging in campaign activities. He vehemently denied allegations suggesting collusion between IUML aspirants and the Telugu Desam (TD), labeling such claims as fabrications aimed at tarnishing IUML's reputation during the elections. Ahmed clarified that there is no association or agreement between IUML and TD in any way, reaffirming that their candidates are conducting election campaigns with the backing of party members and supporters. He further disclosed that IUML AP has filed a complaint with the police on Sunday regarding the dissemination of false propaganda against their party. Ahmed emphasised that IUML has no inclination to support TD, noting that their party is aligned with the I.N.D.I.A. bloc at the national level. He accused an individual of attempting to mislead the public by operating under the guise of the Indian Muslim League and backing the YSRC in the elections. Ahmed pointed out Sk Hussein Basha as the individual misrepresenting the Indian Union Muslim League Party, alleging that Basha is causing harm to their party by engaging in activities such as hosting public meetings, distributing pamphlets, and circulating WhatsApp messages falsely claiming IUML's support for the YSRC. Ahmed clarified that IUML AP does not support either YSRC or TD or any regional parties in the state and has filed a complaint with the Guntur police regarding the false propaganda.

Congress intensifies election campaign in Telangana

Hyderabad: As the countdown for polling in view of Lok Sabha elections commenced, the Telangana Congress Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) has intensified election campaign in the State, roping in prominent leaders especially Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in the canvassing on May 9 and 10 respectively. Rahul Gandhi will attend the campaign on May 9 at Jana Jatara Sabhas in Narsapur at 4 pm and at Saroornagar Indoor Stadum at 6 pm. Priyanka Gandhi will take part in similar meetings on May 10 at Kama Reddy at 12 noon, Tandur at 4 pm and in a corner meeting at Shadnagar at 6 pm. The TPCC has intensified the campaign highlighting the failures of the previous BRS government and the Central government. Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy and other senior leaders time and again exposed the autocratic rule of the BRS regime and how it ignored the welfare of the people in the last 10 years. The Donkey Egg campaign launched against the Central government received good response from people. The leaders alleged that the Centre failed to re-allot Investment Technology Investment Region (ITIR) apart from failing to sanction Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in Hyderabad, Fast Rapid Rail system along Hyderabad-Vijayawada national highway and University of Mining as per Andhra Pradesh State Reorganization Act.

ECI orders action against YSRC social media incharge

VIJAYAWADA: The Election Commission on Sunday directed the Additional Director General of CID (Cyber Cell) to take necessary action on the complaint regarding the false propaganda of the YSRC against the TDP. The TDP politburo member Varla Ramaiah has lodged a complaint with the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Mukesh Kumar Meena on the alleged false propaganda against the TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu alleging that YSRC social media incharge Sajjala Bhargava Reddy has been misleading the voters and pensioners through Interactive Voice Response System (IVRS) calls. Based on Ramaiahs complaint, a memo was issued by Additional Chief Electoral Officer MN Harendhira Prasad on Sunday. In his complaint, Ramaiah alleged that YSRC leaders and campaign strategy team hatched a plan to damage the reputation of the TDP supremo by releasing a voice recording directly blaming Naidu for the death of several people due to scorching heat while collecting their pensions. As a matter of fact, it was Naidu who submitted several representations to the government to distribute the pensions at doorsteps of beneficiaries which went in vain as the government solely looked for enhancing its political mileage by conveniently putting blame on Naidu. The YSRC has carried out such voice recording messages deliberately to mislead voters, reads the complaint.

AP Land Titling Act will eliminate land mafia, says Sajjala

Vijayawada: YSR Congress state general secretary Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy has made it clear that the Jagan Mohan Reddy government is trying to eliminate land mafia in Andhra Pradesh by bringing in the AP Land Titling Act. He charged that because of this, opposition leaders N. Chandrababu Naidu and Pawan Kalyan are opposing the act. AP CID filing a case against Chandrababu for false propaganda against the Land Titling Act is a welcome development, the YSRC general secretary underlined. He claimed that Polavaram project has been delayed due to the TD-BJP alliance. He pointed out that Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy would have completed the Polavaram if the centre had given funds. He pointed out that even though the cabinet had approved 12,000 crore, the centre did not release these funds. Ramakrishna Reddy claimed that if Polavaram is properly funded by the centre, the project can be completed in two years.

ECI orders transfer of Andhra Pradesh DGP Kasireddy Rajendranath Reddy

VIJAYAWADA: The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Sunday issued orders transferring the State Director General of Police (DGP) Kasireddy Rajendranath Reddy with immediate effect. The move comes after leaders of the Opposition TDP lodged several complaints and raised the issue of lapses in security arrangements during the Prime Ministers public meeting at Chilakaluripet. Additionally, the poll panel directed Chief Secretary KS Jawahar Reddy to ensure the DGP hands over the charge to an officer below his rank and is not assigned any election-related duties. The ECI further directed the Chief Secretary to submit names of three DG-rank officials, along with their APAR grading for the last five years and Vigilance clearance, eligible for the post by 11 am on Monday. Rajendranath Reddy, a 1992 batch IPS officer, was appointed as DGP in February 2022, replacing D Gautam Sawang. Earlier, Reddy had served as an Intelligence chief. Soon after orders to transfer Rajendranath Reddy were issued, power corridors were abuzz with talk of who will be appointed as the next DGP in the State. According to the State IPS service list, five officers APSRTC managing director Ch Dwaraka Tirumala Rao (1990), Road Safety Authority chairman Anjana Sinha (1990), Madireddy Pratap (1991), Principal secretary (Home) Harish Kumar Gupta (1992) and State Disaster Response and Fire Services DG PV Sunil Kumar (1994) hold the DG rank. The Chief Secretary has to take the final call and send the names of three of the five officers to the ECI.

Modi to Address Public Meeting in AP Today

Vijayawada: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address a public meeting in Rajahmundry on Monday from 3:00 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. He will arrive at the Rajahmundry Airport by an IAF aircraft from Jagadalpur in Chattisgarh. From Rajahmundry Airport he will reach Vemagiri to address a public meeting. TD national general secretary N. Lokesh and AP BJP chief, Rajahmundry Lok Sabha nominee D. Purandeswari, and NDA Lok Sabha nominees from Amalapuram, Kakinada, Eluru, Narasapuram and Rajahmundry and nominees from seven assembly segments falling under the Rajahmundry Lok Sabha segment will attend the PMs public meeting. Post the Rajahmundry public meeting, Narendra Modi will proceed to Anakapalli to address another public meeting between 4:00 pm and 6:00 p.m. Telugu Desam chief N. Chandrababu Naidu and Jana Sena leader Nagababu will attend this meeting, apart from NDA nominees from Anakapalli Lok Sabha and assembly segments within its purview.

Son-in-law Appeals Against Voting for Ambati Rambabu

Vijayawada: A video clip of AP minister Ambati Rambabus second son-in-law Dr. K. Gautham against his father-in-law has gone viral. In the video, Dr. Gautham, who is working as a doctor in a private hospital in Hyderabad, has asked people not to vote for Rambabu, who is contesting from the Sattenapalli assembly constituency. Minister Rambabu said opposition parties have influenced his son-in-law into making such a statement to damage his image during the election time. He clarified that his daughter Dr. Ambati Manogna had married Dr. Kondabolu Gautham and they had been blessed with two children. He said subsequently Dr. Gautham filed a divorce petition in Kukatpalli court of Hyderabad and the matter is in the court. The minister specifically accused Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan of instigating Dr. Gautham. He maintained that such a negative campaign will not deter him from continuing his electoral battle.

Automated calls: APCID files FIR against TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu, Nara Lokesh

VIJAYAWADA: A day after the Election Commission of India (ECI) instructed the cyber cell wing of the State Crime Investigation Department (APCID) to take necessary action on the complaint from YSRC regarding the purported propagation of false, incorrect and unverified allegations against the AP Land Titling Act through paid IVR calls by the TDP, the CID registered an FIR on Sunday. In the FIR, the CID mentioned the names of TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu (A1), his son Nara Lokesh (A2) followed by others including IVRS technicians and operators. Speaking to TNIE, APCID officials said that notices were served to P Ashok Babu, office secretary of State TDP office, summoning him to appear before the investigation officer in Mangalagiri CID office on Monday. CID officials informed the complainant Malladi Vishnuvardhan to appear before the investigation officer to record his statement. We are carrying out the investigation duly following the procedures of law. Special teams were formed to collect the details of IVRS operators and the call centre from where they are operating, the officials said. It may be recalled that Vijayawada Central MLA Malladi Vishnuvardhan lodged a complaint with Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Mukesh Kumar Meena on April 29 alleging that a false propaganda was being spread against YSRC and its chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy through paid IVR calls from 07971318532, +917317956049 and +917313790769 numbers by TDP regarding the AP Land Titling Act. Acting on the complaint, a memo was issued by Additional Chief Electoral Officer MN Harendhira Prasad on Saturday directing the CID to take necessary action into the matter in accordance with the existing laws and the extant instructions of the ECI, and furnish the action taken report at the earliest. Following the orders, CID chief N Sanjay appointed G Tirumala Rao as the investigation officer for the case and asked to submit a report in 15 days.

Andhra Pradesh: Polavaram R&R package, lack of basic infra to influence Araku LS poll outcome

VIJAYAWADA: Rehabilitation and Resettlement (R&R) package for the Polavaram project displaced, road infrastructure and health facilities are the major issues that concern the voters of Araku Lok Sabha constituency, the largest one in the State geographically. The parliamentary constituency spread over four districts before the reorganisation, now it is divided into two districts for administrative convenience. As per the Delimitation of Parliamentary and Assembly Constituencies Order (2008), Araku came into existence as a reserved constituency for Scheduled Tribes, comprising seven Assembly segments, including Palakonda, Kurupam, Parvathipuram, Salur, Araku Valley, Paderu and Rampachodavaram. The first four constituencies come under the purview of Parvathipuram Manyam and the last three fall in Alluri Sitarama Raju district. Among the seven Assembly segments, only Parvathipuram is reserved for SCs, while the remaining six are reserved for STs. Infrastructure problems are common across the constituency, while the eastern parts of the constituency located in Parvathipuram Manyam are facing irrigation and drinking water issues. K Govinda Rao, a social worker from Araku region, noted that the lack of proper roads and transportation facilities to the tribal villages in Araku Assembly constituency and other hilly terrains has distanced the tribals from the fruits of development. Even for the basic health care issues, they have to travel miles on foot carrying the infirm person or pregnant woman in doli. In some places, even horses are used as a means of transport even in the cyber age, he pointed out. Purnapadu-Labesu bridge on the Nagavali river in Komarada mandal of Parvathipuram Manyam district is top on the list of grievances. The State government had started the Purnapadu-Labesu bridge works way back in 2006. It sanctioned Rs 14 crore for the bridge in September 2021. However, the bridge works are yet to begin. Once it is completed, the bridge will provide connectivity to nearly 80,000 people living in 35 villages. Despite several representations and agitations, it has not materialised so far, said Pari Naidu, a nature farming activist from Parvathipuram Manyam. Pending works of the Thotapalli reservoir canal to provide irrigation water for 40-50 villages and other minor irrigation projects are also issues that need to be addressed. Tribals are worried over the lack of minimum support price for the minor forest produce and the policy-makers need to focus on this, Naidu mentioned. Parvathipuram municipality, the headquarters of the newly formed district, suffers from the garbage disposal issue. The dumping yard in the middle of the town has become the main issue, while drinking water shortage is another recurring problem. Speaking to TNIE , Balu Akkasu, a social worker of Rampachodavaram, said the R&R package for the Polavaram Project Displaced Families is one of the main issues that can influence the outcome of the election this time. The project is pending and so is the implementation of the R&R package. Tribals are losing their patience and worried that they may be paid a pittance, citing that the promise was to pay the compensation based on the price level of 2011, he said. Another issue that bothers the people of the Rampachodavaram region is frequent flooding from the backwaters of Polavaram. During monsoon, for the past few years, it has become routine for them to temporarily migrate to relief camps. Now, they are looking for a permanent solution for the same, said Ch Srinivas Rao, a trader. He agreed with Balus view that the people of the region are looking for a separate district. The TDP and its allies have promised to form a new district with Rampachodavaram as its headquarters, he said, indicating that the issues will be in the minds of the people while voting on May 13. Since it was formed in 2009, the Lok Sabha seat was bagged by Kishore Chandra Deo of Congress in 2009, by Kothapalli Geetha in 2014, and by Goddeti Madhavi in 2019. The YSRC has fielded Chetti Thanuja Rani from Araku against Kothapalli Geetha of BJP in the election.

Amit Shah reading script given by Naidu: Sajjala Reddy

VIJAYAWADA: Refuting allegations levelled by Union Home Minister Amit Shah at a public meeting in Dharmavaram of Sri Satya Sai district on Sunday, YSRC general secretary Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy remarked that Shah was reading the script given by TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu. Speaking to the mediapersons at the party headquarters in Tadepalle, the YSRC leader recalled that in the run-up to the 2019 election, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had accused Naidu of using Polavaram as an ATM. Amit Shah is well aware of this fact. As Naidu is now an NDA partner again, he said what he said, Sajjala explained. Sajjala further elaborated in detail, how TDP delayed the project by agreeing to old price levels, how Naidu agreed to a special package, and the irregularities that took place in awarding contracts. Asserting that Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy will complete the Polavaram Project, Sajjala maintained, Through reverse tendering, we saved Rs 850 crore. Had the Centre released funds in advance, the project would have been completed long ago. He further blamed the Centre for delaying the project and pointed out that though there was cabinet approval, Rs 12,000 crore was not released to the State for the project. This is one of the losses of BJP partnering with TDP, he quipped. Naidu never patronised Telugu language Responding to Shahs comments on the Telugu language, the YSRC leader said Naidu has never patronised Telugu. Let them come clear as to where they have sent their children. Not English medium schools? he questioned. The decision on English medium in government schools was as per 94% of peoples acceptance, Sajjala asserted. Taking a dig at Chandrababu Naidu for criticising AP Land Titling Act, Sajjala said that Naidu and his cohorts are trying to stop the Act. He played a video clipping of a TV channel about the positive story on the Land Titling Act and quoted TDP leader Payavula Keshav who praised the Act. However, now the party took a U-turn, he added.

Parts of Andhra likely to experience heavy rains

VIJAYAWADA: As many as 29 mandals in the State are likely to experience heatwave on Monday and chances of mercury levels decreasing in the next couple of days are high. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday forecasted a heatwave at isolated places across the State on Monday. Hot, humid, and discomfort weather is likely in isolated places across the State. The Met Department predicted thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of speeds 30-40 kmph are likely at isolated places across the State for the same period. Heavy rainfall is likely to be reported in isolated places across the State with gusty winds of 40-50 kmph on Tuesday. Heavy rainfall is likely to be recorded in isolated places across Rayalaseema with gusty winds of 40-50 kmph on Wednesday. On Sunday, Andhra Pradesh largely experienced hot and humid conditions with daytime temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius. APSDMA, in its daily bulletin on Saturday, stated that as many as 5 mandals experienced severe heatwave, and 117 mandals reported heatwave. Mahanandi in the Nandyal recorded the highest daytime temperature of 45.8 degrees Celsius, followed by Veinapi Akkamambapuram in the Nellore at 45.5 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, Veligonda in Praksam district recorded daytime temperatures at 45.2 degrees Celsius, Veerulapadu in NTR district at 43.3 degree Celsius, and Yerrampeta in Alluri Sitarama Raju district at 43.1 degree Celsius.

IMA worried over sharing patients data with pvt health care facilities says Dr RV Asokan

VIJAYAWADA: In connection with the linking of the State governments implementation of the National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) with Clinical Establishment Act, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) raised concerns regarding the privacy, security, and safety of health records within the NDHM ecosystem in Andhra Pradesh. IMA national president Dr RV Asokan recently visited the State to discuss these issues with the IMA - AP members. Expressing concern over potential misuse by private entities and foreign powers, Dr Asokan called for stringent data protection measures and sought State governments clarification on mandatory data sharing under the Clinical Establishment Act. The IMA worries that inadequate data security measures may expose sensitive health information of the individuals to risks such as unauthorised access, data breaches, or misuse. Highlighting the absence of appropriate laws regarding the data privacy and protection in India, IMA president Dr RV Asokan raised concerns about uploading detailed medical records to a centralised platform, questioning the State governments objectives of interoperability and accessibility. Speaking to TNIE, Dr RV Asokan highlighted issues with patient consent reliability, especially among vulnerable populations in State government hospitals. Criticising the term Data Fiduciary, he argued against entities accessing patient data without safeguards and stressed the absence of a legal framework for the DHM, urging clear guidelines for data protection. In connection with the issue, IMA-AP wrote a letter to the State government on March 21, 2024 about their concerns. In response to the letter received from IMA with the subject quoting adoption of ABDM in Private Health Care Facilities (HCFs), the Director of Health and Family Welfare (HFW) addressed the IMAs concerns over the National Digital Health Missions (NDHM) data privacy and security. The HFW Director highlighted the robust measures in place, such as the Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH), led by WHO, the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDPA) to safeguard personal data, existing laws like the Information Technology Act, 2000, to provide legal recognition for electronic transactions. Moreover, Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) guidelines ensure privacy through Privacy by Design and federated digital architecture, with no centralised data repository and strict consent protocols, the Director added. The ABDM aims for a National Digital Health Ecosystem, offering citizens longitudinal Electronic Health Records. IMAs involvement in the ABDM Advisory Committee underscores collaborative efforts. The Director reaffirms the Government of Indias commitment to a Digital Health India, urging support for NDHM and inviting private hospitals to join the ecosystem for its success. However, speaking to this newspaper, the IMA president said that the response and the measures were not satisfactory. Dr Asokan further stated that they have written to the CEO of National Health Authority, seeking clarification over the legal basis for the adoption of ABDM in Private Health Care Facilities (HCFs) in Andhra Pradesh and asserted that the IMA is also weighing the option of filing a writ petition in the State High Court after receiving an official response from the CEO of NHA. It may be recalled that the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), a crucial component of the National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) launched in 2021, aims to establish an integrated online platform connecting patients and healthcare providers nationwide, enhancing transparency, efficiency, and overall patient outcomes. As of September 2022, Andhra Pradesh became the pioneer State in India by integrating over one crore electronic health records with the ABDM. The State also successfully generated more than 3.4 crore Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) numbers. The cornerstone of ABDMs efficacy lies in the seamless linkage of ABHA numbers with medical data, enabling patients to access their comprehensive health records from any location within the country without the need for physical documentation. As of January 24, 2024, a staggering 52,50,15,110 ABHA numbers have been issued nationwide, with Andhra Pradesh contributing significantly by generating 4,12,31,065 ABHA numbers, ranking third in India in terms of numbers generated.

PM Modi to Address Mega Rallies in Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh

PM Modi to Address Mega Rallies in Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address two NDA election meetings in Andhra Pradesh on Monday, featuring alliance partners N Chandrababu Naidu from the TDP and Janasena chief Pawan Kalyan. The first meeting is scheduled in the afternoon at Vemagiri in Rajamahendravaram, East Godavari district, followed by another one later in the day at Anakapalli. ''The Prime Minister is expected to land at Rajamahendravaram airport around noon. He will address his first meeting here at 3:30 pm and then proceed to Anakapalli for the second meeting scheduled at 5:30 pm,'' a BJP leader said. The PM's meetings , titled ''Prajagalam'' (people's voice) in the southern state follow the first NDA poll rally at Boppudi village in Palnadu district on March 17, in the run-up to the simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly elections on May 13. State BJP chief D Purandeswari is contesting from the Rajamahendravaram Lok Sabha seat. She will take on the YSRCP's G Srinivasulu. The saffron party's C M Ramesh is fighting the Parliament election from Anakapalli Lok Sabha constituency, taking on the ruling party's B Mutyala Naidu. Modi is scheduled to address rallies in the southern state on May 8 as well, at Pileru in Annamayya district and participate in a rally in Vijayawada, NTR district. As part of a seat sharing deal among NDA partners, TDP was allocated 144 Assembly and 17 Lok Sabha constituencies while BJP is contesting from six Lok Sabha and 10 Assembly seats. Janasena is contesting from two Lok Sabha and 21 Assembly seats. Election results will be declared on June 4.

Narendra Modi to address two rallies in Andhra Pradesh today

Amit Shah criticizes YSRC govt. PM Modi's Andhra Pradesh visit for 2 public meetings. Modi to address gatherings in Rajahmundry, Anakapalli, Rajampet, and Vijayawada, focusing on key issues to sway voters.

Vijayawada Central constituency awaits solution to traffic snarls

One of the many reasons for the delay is that a few political leaders have their properties here, say sources

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

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

Postal, Home Voting on May 7 and May 9

Vijayawada: NTR district election officer and collector S. Dilli Rao announced that the Election Commission has made arrangements for essential service personnel to cast their votes on May 7. Home voting will be facilitated on May 7 and May 9. Dilli Rao said they have received 1,052 applications for home voting in the district.

Pawan Slams Ambati for Ignoring Execution of Polavaram Works

Vijayawada: Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan has slammed water resources minister Ambati Rambabu for dancing around without listing the steps to complete the Polavaram irrigation project. Addressing a public meeting titled Varahi Vijayabheri at Ponnur in Guntur district on Sunday, he alleged that the minister was not taking any responsibility with regard to the project even as 1.60 lakh project affected people were facing hardships. He expressed concern over the digging up of a helipad area meant for the landing of his helicopter at Ponnuru and alleged that the YSR Congress supporters were doing so. Had we failed to notice this, it could have turned into a major disaster and deaths. Those who did will be taken to task once the opposition alliance wins power in the state, he said. Turning down the criticism from chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy that he was a non-local candidate for the Pitapuram assembly segment, PK said, I was born in Bapatla and was brought up in Palnadu, Ongole, Nellore etc as my father used to work in government service and was getting transferred. I carry with me the strong flavour of the red chilli of Guntur. and added that he was man having the strong flavour of the red chili of Guntur. Claiming that he was the first to underscore the need to avoid a split of the anti-YSR Congress vote, he called upon YSRC supporters to instead back the Alliance and ensure a bright future for the five crore people in the state. He said, Our priority is education, employment, health, drinking water and water for irrigation, and maintenance of law and order once we are elected to power. He turned critical of the YSR Congress government for the failure to implement its poll promise of liquor prohibition in a phased manner. Instead, it is supplying sub-standard liquor through state outlets, affecting the health of the consumers. Alleging that the YSRC MLA from Kakinada city, Dwarampudi Chandrasekhar Reddy, was involved in diversion of ration rice and its export to Africa, he warned of action against him once the Alliance wins power in AP. Referring to the clarification being given on the AP Land Titling Act to dispel misconceptions, by chief minister Jagan Reddy, he asked as to why his government issued a GO even as the Centre sent a draft copy to it for feedback. In a public meeting at Tuni later in the day, PK reiterated the assurance to conduct a mega DSC, release of the job calendar and resolving the issue of CPS in a year. He listed out a series of welfare schemes and assured the people to take up a lot of developmental works once we are in power. He alleged that CM Jagan Reddy and minister Dadisetti Raja were involved in a mafia-like loot in relation to extraction of soil, sand etc while other ministers were also earning thousands of crores of rupees. I would work for communal and social harmony and would never encourage caste conflicts. I want people belonging to all castes and communities to enjoy welfare benefits, the JS leader said. Kapu leader Mudragada Padmabhams daughter Kranthi and son-in-law Chandu expressed their intent to join the Jana Sena. Pawan Kalyan welcomed their urge and promised to take them into the party fold after he visited their house to meet Padmanabham and convince him too to join the JS. He said that he would never cause any difference in the family. Whatever be the abuses hurled at him, he would accept these as an exhortation from the elderly person.

PM Modi to address two NDA election meetings in Andhra Pradesh on Monday

PM Modi to address two NDA election meetings in Andhra Pradesh on Monday Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address two NDA election meetings in Andhra Pradesh on Monday, along with alliance partners TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu and Janasena chief Pawan Kalyan. The first meeting is scheduled in the afternoon at Vemagiri in Rajamahendravaram, East Godavari district, followed by another public meeting in the evening at Anakapalli in the eponymous district. The prime minister is expected to land at Rajamahendravaram airport around noon. He will address his first meeting here at 3.30 pm and then proceed to Anakapalli for the second meeting scheduled at 5.30 pm, according to a local BJP leader. The twin PM meetings dubbed 'Prajagalam' (peoples voice) come ahead of Andhra Pradesh's simultaneous assembly and Lok Sabha elections on May 13. The first NDA election meeting was held at Boppudi village in Palnadu districts Chilakaluripeta mandal on March 17. Andhra Pradesh BJP chief D Purandeswari is contesting from the Rajamahendravaram Lok Sabha seat. She will take on YSRCPs G Srinivasulu. In Anakapalli, BJPs C M Ramesh is fighting the parliamentary election against the ruling partys B Mutyala Naidu. Following Mondays meetings, Modi is scheduled to campaign again in the state on Wednesday, May 8, addressing a public meeting at Pileru in Annamayya district and participating in a rally in Vijayawada, NTR district. Modi will be taking part in four election campaign-related events in Andhra Pradesh ahead of polling day. As part of a seat-sharing deal among the NDA partners, the TDP was allocated 144 assembly segments and 17 Lok Sabha constituencies, while the BJP will contest from six Lok Sabha and 10 assembly constituencies. Janasena will contest from two Lok Sabha and 21 assembly segments. Election results nationwide will be declared on June 4.

I developed Vijayawada East, not Gadde, asserts Devineni Avinash

Avinash called Gadde an incompetent MLA who did not work for the development of the East constituency during the past five years

Postal ballot voting begins in NTR district

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

Severe heatwave likely in 30 AP mandals on May 5

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

TDP spent more on welfare schemes: Chandrababu Naidu

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

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

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

Chandrababu Naidu dangerous than Coronavirus, says Sajjala

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

Probe TDP paid IVR calls: EC to cyber cell CID

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

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

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

TD complains to CEC on lapses in postal ballots

Vijayawada: Telugu Desam party has complained to the Chief Election Commissioner about certain lapses in the postal ballots. TD senior leader Kanakamedala Ravindra Kumar addressed a letter to the CEC of Election Commission of India here on Saturday, complaining about conduct of postal voting without sharing the list of voters. He alleged that the Returning Officers concerned were not sharing the details of postal ballot voters except for 12 Assembly segments out of a total of 175. He alleged that the employees who attended the voting could not find their names in the voters list, in many places. The TD leader complained that though the gazetted officers were to be placed at the Facilitation Centre to attest the declaration of the employee voting but either they were absent or appending signatures without putting their stamps and expressed apprehension that it may cause such votes to be declared as invalid.

AP Government Will Provide Free Locations for Shooting Movies

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

CID To Probe False Propaganda Against AP Land Titling Act

The AP CID is observing World Day Against Child Labour on Monday and its additional director general of Police Sanjay unveiled a poster against child labour. (Representational Image Source: cid.appolice.gov.in) The AP CID is observing World Day Against Child Labour on Monday and its additional director general of Police Sanjay unveiled a poster against child labour. (Representational Image Source: cid.appolice.gov.in) Vijayawada: State election authorities have ordered the AP CID to inquire into the misinformation campaign launched by Telugu Desam on AP Land Titling Act. Additional chief electoral officer (CEO) M.N. Harendhira Prasad has issued a memo here on Saturday asking the additional director general of police, AP CID, to probe the misinformation campaign on Land Titling Act in accordance with the prevailing laws and guidelines issued by the Election Commission of India. The additional CEO wanted the CID to submit its action taken report immediately. YSRC MLA from Vijayawada Central Assembly segment Malladi Vishnuvardhan lodged a complaint with the state election authorities recently against the false propagation with regard to the AP Land Titling Act through paid IVR calls by the TD. In response to the complaint, the state election authorities ordered a probe on the matter Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has been vociferous in condemning the false propaganda over the titling act to create confusion among people and make them feel insecure about their properties.

Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh visiting AP today

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

Pawan Kalyan predicts NDA will win 130 seats in AP assembly

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

Andhra Pradesh Distributes Over 99 Percent of Social Security Pensions

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

Sajjala Questions Naidus Brouhaha Over Land Titling Act

Vijayawada: YSRC state general secretary Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy on Saturday alleged that Telugu Desam is spreading false propaganda on the AP Land Titling Act, which has not been implemented. In a bid to clear the controversy raised by the opposition, Ramakrishna Reddy asked Naidu to explain why he is against the act, which is being implemented by the BJP-led NDA government, of which TD has become an ally. He explained that land re-survey has been completed in 6,000 villages. Efforts are being made to bring about changes in the registration system. He said the Land Titling Act will come into force only after completion of a comprehensive land survey. The same has been informed to the court. It will take another two to three years for the AP Land Titling Act to be implemented, the party general secretary clarified. He accused opposition leader Naidu of stooping too low and speaking foul language in a bid to come to power. He maintained that the act is being brought to check irregularities and disputes. Enacting the Land Titling Act will bring about a revolutionary change, he remarked. Ramakrishna Reddy alleged that Chandrababu himself has committed many irregularities with regard to land in the name of deemed mutation of lands under AP CRDA. He alleged that assigned lands had been seized forcefully from owners. The party general secretary said Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy is taking steps to prevent such anarchy. Chandrababu is afraid that once the new AP Land Titling Act comes into force, he cannot illegally grab lands anymore, he stated.

Rs 54.43 lakh worth liquor seized in Nandyal

Kurnool: Nandyal police seized Goa-made liquor worth Rs 54,43,200 and apprehended two people along with a truck near the Gajulapalle check post on Friday. The arrested persons were identified as Jithendra Rajkumar Gidwani from Pune, Maharashtra, and Rajesh Meena from Nagada village in Ujjain district, Madhya Pradesh. During a raid at the Gajulapalle check post near Anjaneya Kottala village, police discovered 43,200 (180 ml) bottles of Royal Blue malt whisky from Goa. The liquor, packed in 900 boxes and concealed beneath cattle feed, was being transported in a truck from Goa to Vijayawada via Nandyal. The police seized the illegal liquor, the truck, two mobile phones, and arrested the two people. Nandyal DSP Ravindranath Reddy, Nandyal rural CI N. Sivakumar Reddy, sub-inspectors G. Nagendra Prasad, K. Mallikarjuna, Nagarjun Reddy, and others participated in the operation.

Vijayawada SEB nabs three with Methamphetamine on Vijayawada-Guntur highway

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

Prakash Karat to campaign in AP from May 8

Vijayawada: CPM Politburo member Prakash Karat will be campaigning for the I.N.D.I.A. Bloc candidates in Krishna, NTR, and Guntur districts from May 8 to 10, according to a party release on Saturday. On May 8, he will arrive at Gannavaram airport from New Delhi and take part in a public meeting at Gannavaram in support of CPM Gannavaram assembly constituency candidate Kallam Venkateswara Rao, and Gollu Krishna, the Congress party candidate for the Machilipatnam MP seat. Prakash will participate in another public meeting to support Jonna Siva Sankar, the CPM candidate for Mangalagiri, and Jangala Ajay Kumar, the CPI candidate for the Guntur MP seat. On May 9, Prakash Karat will be attending a meeting in Guntur, the party sources said. On May 10, Prakash Karat will address a public meeting at the Gymkhana grounds in Vijayawada in support of the Vijayawada Lok Sabha and Vijayawada assembly I.N.D.I.A. Bloc candidates. For that meeting, the left parties, Congress and Aam Admi parties are planning to gather people in a large numbers. CPM state secretariat member Ch Babu Rao and CPI candidate G Koteswara Rao are contesting from Vijayawada Central and Vijayawada West respectively. Congress candidates B Nancharaiah is contesting from Vijayawada East and Valluru Bhargav is in fray for the Vijayawada Parliamentary Constituency.

Tight security to be in place for Modis roadshow in Vijayawada, says Police Commissioner

The Prime Minister will participate in a roadshow on M.G. Road from Indira Gandhi Municipal Corporation (IGMC) Stadium to Benz Circle on May 8

Poll Activities Across Andhra Pradesh

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

Nandyal police seize liquor worth 54 lakh at Gajulapalle check-post amid elections

The liquor was being transported in a truck from Goa to Vijayawada, camouflaged with cattle fodder inside gunny bags, says the SP

Heatwave plays spoilsport in Telugu states as campaign enters final leg

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

Heat waves forecast for 227 mandals in Andhra Pradesh on Saturday

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

Naidu asked to seek votes based on deeds, not promises

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

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

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

Videography at 68% problematic polling stations in Bapatla district

VIJAYAWADA: General election observer Parimala Singh attended a meeting that deputy Election Commissioner Nitish Vyas held with election observers, collectors, and SPs. At the meeting, district collector P. Ranjit Basha told ECI that the final list of voters has been released as per the Election Commission schedule. Slips are being distributed to voters across the district. Postal ballot voting is being conducted from May 5 to May 8. Videography equipment has been installed at 68 per cent of problematic polling stations. District SP Vakul Jindal said the election code of conduct is being strictly implemented. So far liquor, jewellery, gifts and cash, among others, worth 4.87 crore have been seized.

Congress promises national status for PRLIS, Medaram Jatara

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

Andhra Pradesh: 29th Paediatric Cardiac Surgical Camp concludes

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