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Thursday 10 July 2014

GHMC comes out with contingency plan as staff goes on strike

Hyderabad, July 10 : In view of the strike by its employees since Wednesday midnight, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation has announced some contingency plans to lift garbage from the city.

GHMC Commissioner Somesh Kumar informed that the GHMC lifts more than 3,600 metric tons garbage every day and in view of the ensuing festivals the accumulation of garbage would be more. He said that the strike by the employees at this juncture would cause huge inconvenience to the people. However, he said that the GHMC was ready to face any eventualities. He said directions have been given to all the Zonal Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners already to deploy 6 tonner vehicle with four labors in all the 150 wards to take up the contingency works on priority basis.

The Bhagyanagar Municipal GHMC Employees Union (BMS) has gone on strike demanding increase in salaries of outsourcing sweepers. The entire fleet of sanitation vehicles has been stopped.  INN

SBH promises to return GHMC’s Rs 2 crore in 24 hrs

Hyderabad, July 10 : GHMC Commissioner Somesh Kumar informed that the SBH authorities have assured to pay back Rs 2 crore to the GHCM within 24 hours.

The Commissioner said that the High Court has issued stay orders in transferring of Rs. 2 crores by the SBH issue. However, he expressed confidence that the court will give a favorable judgment to the GHMC.   He informed that SBH Managing Director Santanu Mukherjee has paid his courtesy visit to the GHMC office and had a detailed discussion about various issues relating to Bank and Customer relations, Corporate Social Responsibility etc.,

The Commissioner sought the cooperation of SBH in UCD activities such as financing “owner-cum driver scheme” by duly offering subsidy or cancelling processing charges and to provide skill development training programmes to Self Help Group Women.

The Commissioner requested the Bank authorities to issue the interest rate offered to Senior Citizens to all the fixed deposits of GHMC and to suggest some short term deposit plans to the floating money of GHMC (regular collections) instead of keeping them in current account.  He has asked the SBH to be one of the primary sponsorers of the ensuing Metropolis conference and further requested to sponsor furniture to the night shelters set up by GHMC in order to minimize the delay of official process.

Somesh Kumar further asked the Bank authorities to accept the property tax payments of GHMC from the public in addition to the existing GHMC Citizen Service under Mee-Seva Centres. He further said that he would be writing a formal letter to the bank authorities in this regard.

The Commissioner said that the Bankers have promised that they will cooperate GHMC in all possible ways and requested the Commissioner, GHMC to put forward the list of issues wherever there is a financial help is required so that they can put up the proposals before their board and get sanctions. The bankers showed much interest in providing solar electrification wherever the GHMC requires, he added.  INN

CREDAI expects 'Acche Din' for Real Estate Sector with the budget

Hyderabad, July 10 : The Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India (CREDAI) has expressed confidence that with liberal norms for FDI and tax incentives for the REITs , besides the focus on low cost housing, infrastructure development and the budget allocation of Rs. 7060 Crores for development or up gradation of 100 smart cities along with the promise to deliver ‘pucca’ housing for all by 2022 will bring “Acche Din” for the real estate sector.

Speaking about the budget C Shekar Reddy, National President, CREDAI said, “The budget unfolds some important initiatives for the real estate sector. Our demand for easing the norms for the FDI in real estate sector has been accepted by the FM in the budget and to encourage development of Smart Cities, which will also provide habitation for the neo-middle class, requirement of the built up area for FDI is being reduced from 50,000 square metres to 20,000 square meters and capital conditions reduced from USD 10 million to USD 5 million respectively with a three year post completion lock in. If these projects commit at least 30% of the total project cost to affordable housing, they will be exempted from minimum built up area and capitalisation requirements, with the condition of 3 years lock in. This will make more projects eligible for FDI funding and specially promote affordable housing segment.

Apart from this, the Government is also looking keen to make REITs more attractive and has proposed making it a vital tool to attract and encourage investments in the sector by providing tax incentives for REITs have been proposed as requested by us. This will encourage retail investors participation in commercial real estate and provide a source of funding to the developers helping improve liquidity and encourage them to undertake more projects. However our long standing demand for an infrastructure status to the housing segment has not been granted, which is disappointing as it limits the access for bank and institutional funding to the real estate sector particularly the affordable housing."

Reddy further added that “Finance Minister has proposed to allocate Rs. 4000 Crore via National Housing Bank to boost low cost affordable housing for urban poor and Rs. 8000 Cr allocation for development of rural housing. We are waiting for more clarity on how the funds would be used. If this allocation is for the interest subvention scheme as proposed in the BJP manifesto it will give a boost to affordable housing by increasing the eligibility of the people and increase the demand for such housing giving a boost to affordable housing.

Moreover, the allocation of 7060 Cr to develop or upgrade the existing 100 smart cities, proposals such as allocation of Rs. 50000 cr for urban infra projects, development of Metro projects in cities with population of 20 lakh and above, setting up 7 smart industrial cities and steps for reviving the SEZs will trigger job creation and stimulate the demand for housing. Proposal for investment in national highways and state highways along with development of airports in tier I & II cities will further boost the infrastructure leading to industrial development and have a ripple effect on boosting the real estate sector.”

Adding to this Reddy said, “Though our expectations related to the personal taxation and exemption on interest rates have not been fulfilled, however the little change of raising the tax exemption limit by Rs. 50,000 and raising limits on exemption under section 80 C by 50,000 will add to the investible surplus in the hands of the common man backed by the increase in exemption on interest on Housing loans for self occupied houses to Rs 2 lakh from 1.5 lakhs under section 24 (b) would help improve the sentiment and stimulate the demand for housing.”  INN

Nothing for common man in Union Budget: Ponguleti

Hyderabad, July 10 : Congres MLC Ponguleti Sudhakar Reddy on Thursday criticised the Union Budget and said that it had nothing to offer for the common man.

Speaking to media persons at the Congress Legislature Party office here, Ponguleti said that Finance Minister Arun Jaiteley's budget was aimed at benefitting Ambanis and other corporators and not the common man. He said that the common people were shown big dreams before the elections. However, the common men were complete ignored after the elections and no relief was given to them in the Union Budget.

Addressing a separate press conference, former MLA Anam Vivekananda Reddy also criticised the Union Budget.  INN

Dy CM asks staff to be alert during monsoon

Hyderabad, July 10 : Deputy Chief Minister Dr T Rajaiah has directed the medical staff to remain alert to deal with the possible outbreak of diseases during monsoon season.

Speaking to media persons after visiting the offices of Directorate of Medical Education at Sultan Bazar here on Thursday, Rajaiah said that the medical teams have been asked to prepare an action plan to deal with the seasonal diseases. He said that 108 and 104 services too would be alert. He said that the government would take stern action against the staff found negligent.

Earlier, he held a review meeting with the Heads of different department at DME office.  INN

KCR not happy with Union Budget

Hyderabad, July 10 : Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao expressed his dissatisfaction over the union budget presented in the Lok Sabha on Thursday.

The Chief Minister criticized that but for a horticultural university sanctioned to Telangana in the budget no other project has been given. Horticultural university sanction was also mentioned in the State Reorganization Bill and therefore, it is not a new announcement. The union budget simply mentioned that the commitments of the Reorganization Act will be fulfilled but no specific announcement has been made for Telangana.

Overall, the Chief Minister has criticized the budget presented today.  INN

Two RRB Exam Spl Trains between Santragachi and Sec’Bad

Hyderabad, July 10 : In order to clear extra rush of passengers during Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) examination, two RRB Exam Special Trains will be run between Santragachi and Secunderabad.

As per the schedule, the Train No. 08045 Santragachi-Secunderabad RRB Exam Special Train will depart Santragachi at 04:05 PM on 11th July (Friday) and arrive Secunderabad at 05:30 pm o¬n the next day. In the return direction, Train No.08046 Secunderabad- Santragachi RRB Exam Special train will depart Secunderabad at 03:30 pm on 13th July (Sunday) and arrive Santragachi at 07:15 pm o¬n the next day.

Enroute, these special trains will stop at Kharagpur, Balasore, Bhadrak, Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, Khurda Rd, Brahmapur, Visakhapatnam, Rajahmundry, Vijayawada and Warangal stations in both directions. These RRB Exam special trains will consist of 14 Coaches viz., two Sleeper Class, ten General Second Class and two General Second Class Luggage Cum Brake Van Coaches.  INN

Wednesday 9 July 2014

CM wants Iftar parties in all district headquarters

Hyderabad, July 9 : Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao on Wednesday reportedly asked the officials to organise Iftar party at all District Headquarters.

According to sources, the Chief Minister held a review meeting with the officials on arrangements for Ramzan month. During the meeting, he said that people should not face any inconvenience in the first Ramzan in the new State of Telangana. He enquired about the power supply position in the city and said that efforts should be made to minimise the inconvenience to those observing Ramzan fasting. To make the holy month more memorable, KCR asked the officials to organise Iftar parties at District Headquarters.

Deputy Chief Minister Mahmood Ali, Home Minister Nayani Narasimha Reddy, Excise Minister T Padma Rao, Chief Secretary Rajeevi Sharma, DGP Anurag Sharma, Hyderabad Police Commissioner P Mahender Reddy, GHMC chief Somesh Kumar and other senior officials attended the meeting.  INN

Ponguleti demands all-party delegation to Delhi over Polavaram

Hyderabad, July 9 : Congress MLC Ponguleti Sudhakar Reddy on Wednesday demanded that the State Government take an all-party delegation to New Delhi to meet the Central leaders over the issue of Polavaram Dam.

Speaking to media persons at the State Secretariat Media Point here, Ponguleti said that the Centre's ordinance merging seven mandals of Khammam into Seemandhra was not acceptable. He said that the Telangana Government should pressurise the Centre to cancel the ordinance. Else, he feared that Andrha Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu would pressurise Prime Minister Narendra Modi to enact the ordianance into a law. He said that the injustices to Telangana region on the Polavaram issue was the outcome of a conspiracy hatched by BJP, TDP and YSRCP together, he alleged.

Ponguleti clarified that the controversial ordinance was not issued by the previous Congress Government. INN

Metro Rail Travellers’ Association calls on HMR MD

Hyderabad, July 9 : Office-bearers of the recently formed Metro Travellers’ Association called on HMR MD NVS Reddy at Metro Rail Bhavan here on Wednesday.

Association President B Linga Reddy, Adviser Uppala Gopal Rao and others explained to the MD the aims and objectives of the Metro Rail Travellers’ Association.

They said that the main purpose of forming the Association was to ensure basic amenities to the Metro Rail commuters and at the same time create awareness among them regarding the need to keep the coaches and station premises in a neat and tidy manner. They also wanted to ensure adequate facilities in the compartments and at the stations for senior citizens, women, children and differently-abled.

NVS Reddy complimented them on forming Metro Rail Travellers’ Association and hoped that it would help the Metro Rail commuters and authorities. He assured them that the Hyderabad Metro Rail would provide Hyderabadis a faster, safer and affordable world class travel facility. Assuring the Association all cooperation and assistance, he advised them to conduct Metro commuter awareness sessions in different parts of the city. INN

AISF activists hold protest at T-Secretariat

Hyderabad, July 9 : Several activists of All India Students Federation (AISF) were taken into custody by the Hyderabad City Police when they tried to barge into the Telangana Secretariat here on Wednesday.

The AISF activists raised slogans against the State Government for the delay in holding the counseling for admission into professional courses. AISF President Stalin and Secretary Shiva Ramakrishna said that several students might lose their precious one year, if the government continues to delay the admission process. They threatened that the AISF would intensify its agitation if the government fails to hold counseling immediately.

Nearly 20 students were taken into custody when a few of them tried to enter the Secretariat. They were shifted to a nearby police station and later released.  INN

KCR welcomes Swedish furniture retailer in Hyderabad

Hyderabad, July 9 : Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao welcomed the initiative of 'IKEA,' the iconic Swedish furniture retailer to locate their first Indian store in Hyderabad.

The Chief Minister said all necessary clearances will be given through a real single window to expedite starting of the store in Hyderabad. A high level team from IKEA represented by Juvenico Maeztu - CEO, and Preet Dhupar - CFO met the Chief Minister of Telangana at the Secretariat on Wednesday.

The IKEA is one of the World's largest and recognizable international furniture, household goods and textiles Retail Company. IKEA is headquartered in Sweden. It was one of the first companies in India to be allowed 100% FDI in retail. IKEA intends to open a number of stores in India. The decision by IKEA to set up its first store in Hyderabad will place Hyderabad on the international map of IKEA stores. IKEA retail outlets have a standard design and each location entails an investment of $ 100 million (Rs.550-600 crores). In addition, the backward integration of supplier linkages will have tremendous economic impact to the State.

During discussions it was mentioned by the CEO IKEA that he liked the city of Hyderabad and its outlook in all aspects. He explained in detail the genesis and growth of the company over a period. The CEO suggested to enter into an MOU with Telangana government to serve as an umbrella for broad understanding.

During discussions with IKEA, women entrepreneur groups, bamboo and wood artisans, carpet makers of Warangal as well as SERP women's groups have been identified as potential suppliers.

Responding to the observations made by the CEO the Honorable Chief Minister explained how the Telangana state has come into existence, how it is preparing to go for a plan of policy for the State as a whole and how steps are being initiated for formulating an integrated policy for Industrial growth.

The Chief Minister said that his office will have a chasing cell to take care of the needs of potential investors right from arriving at the airport till they start the industry. He said the Telangana government will show a way to the whole country as to what should be a real single window. He said adequate land is kept ready for allotment to industries as per their requirement.

The Chief Minister also said that the present Hyderabad will change a lot and the city, its surroundings which are recognized as ITIR area will have a huge expansion in the near future ultimately Hyderabad will become a hub for industries said Chief Minister.

Dealing with IKEA will be in a befitting manner said the Chief Minister. The CEO, IKEA extended an invitation to Chief Minister and Officials to visit their stores abroad.

Chief Secretary Rajeev Sharma, Prl. Secy. to Govt. S Narsing Rao, Spl. Chief Secretary Industries Pradeep Chandra were present when the delegation met the Chief Minister.  INN

Loksatta Party committees for AP, Telangana and GHMC

Hyderabad, July 9 : Loksatta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan has appointed Adhoc Committees to run party affairs in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana States and expanded the party’s Greater Hyderabad unit.

In a media statement issued here, Dr. JP named D. V. V. S. Varma as President and A. S. Ramesh Reddy as General Secretary of the Andhra Pradesh unit. He has appointed Messrs YD Rama Rao, K Omkar, Beeshetti A Babji (BC), Narra Sridhar, Chennupati  Vazeer, Panchadi Rambabu (BC) and Venkateswarlu (SC) as Vice Presidents, and Messrs J Iramurthy (BC),  TR Jagannatha Reddy, S Janakirama Raju, Smt Sunitha Chowdary, M Siddhaiah Naidu, PV Ramana (SC) and  Mohd Ismail (minority) as Secretaries.

Dr. Kondiah has been appointed Chairman and D Vishnumurthy Secretary of the AP Disciplinary Committee. Its other members are Dr K. Pattabhi Ramaiah, G Janaki Rama Raju, Dr P Chandra Mouli and Dr Radha Devi. 

Dr. JP said that Katari Srinivasa Rao and Ravi Maruth (elected President and General Secretary of the party in united Andhra Pradesh) will be members of the National Council. Both of them will be special invitees in the Andhra Pradesh and Telangana State Committees and have full voting rights in both committees.

The Andhra Pradesh State Committee will be in office until further orders or until elections are held in the State party, whichever is earlier.

Adhoc Committee for Telangana State comprises the following members: Dr Bhaskar Rao P, Smt Gajanani, Gattaiah G, Smt Geetha Murthy K, Gouse Moinudin Mohd., Govinda Rao, Dr GV Rao, Jagan Kurma, Kodanda Rama Rao P, Lakshman Balaji, Smt Laxmi Datla, Dr GR Linga Murthy, Dr Panduranga Rao, Ramachandraiah V, Rama Raju LV, Rami Reddy Dr, Rammohan Rao Bandaru, Ramu Dosapati, Ravi Bollam, Ravi Kumar Jatti, Smt. Saroja Devi, Shivaji Raju, Sivaramakrishna K, Srinivas Tummanapalli and Srinivasa Reddy.

P. Kodanda Rama Rao, Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee, will convene and chair the first meeting of the Telangana State Committee. The Telangana State Committee will choose its office-bearers in the first meeting and send the list to the national President for ratification. The Telangana State Committee will be in office until further orders or until elections are held, whichever is earlier.

The GHMC Lok Satta Party Committee has been expanded with the induction of all the candidates who contested the 2014 Assembly elections and a few key leaders. The newly constituted GHMC committee members include Ramu Dosapati - President and Venugopal - General Secretary.

K Sivarama Krishna of the State committee will coordinate with the GHMC committee. The GHMC unit will have its own office and bank account. It will take steps to strengthen the party and organize activities in Greater Hyderabad, according to a press release.  INN

CBI questions Guv over AgustaWestland scam

Hyderabad, July 9 : The Central Bureau of Investigation on Wednesday questioned Governor of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh ESL Narasimhan in connection with the alleged irregularities in the procurement of AgustaWestland VVIP choppers for 556.262 million Euros (Rs.3,726.96 crore).

The questioning, according to sources, lasted for over nearly 90 minutes. The CBI officials, who reached the city from New Delhi, questioned Narasimhan as a witness in the graft case under Cr PC 161 (A). He is the third Governor after BV Wanchoo and MK Narayanan to be quizzed by the CBI as witnesses. Both of them later resigned from their posts.  INN

Tuesday 8 July 2014

Rly budget derails AP, Telangana hopes: YSRCP

Hyderabad, July 8 : Describing as constrained the Railway budget presented by Rail Minister Sandananda Gowda in the Lok Sabha, YSR Congress party said today the Centre failed to incorporate the Railway-department related assurances made in the 13th Schedule of the AP State Reorganization Bill, 2014 that guided the division of the erstwhile united AP.

Speaking to reporters here, Party senior leader D.A. Somayajulu said the Centre made several promises to Telangana and Andhra Pradesh with regard to railway projects on the eve of division of the state.

“Apart from the assurance of granting a new railway division to AP and a coach factory to Telangana, the Centre promised to create a rapid rail connectivity system from the new capital city of AP to Hyderabad and other important towns in Telangana, grant metro rail projects for the Vijayawada-Guntur-Tenali urban development area and for Visakhapatnam city,” Somayajulu said, adding that there was unfortunately no mention of these projects in the rail budget.

“No one knows when these projects will be taken up and implemented,” he remarked and stated: “The rail minister said a committee has been set up to report on the completion of pending projects in both AP and Telangana. So the completion of the projects is not time-bound.”

On the whole, the budget did not generate any interest to the common public as the Centre raised the rail fares by 14.5 per cent ahead of the budget, he remarked.  INN

Loksatta welcomes departure from populism in railway budget

Hyderabad, July 8 : The Loksatta Party today welcomed the genuine effort by Union Railway Minister Sadananda Gowda to “end the era of reckless populism and lay the foundation for improved traffic infrastructure.”

In a media statement, Loksatta Party national President Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan said that the broad trajectory of the railway budget is in keeping with the NDA Government’s objective of accelerating economic growth and creating employment.

Dr. JP said the emphasis on public-private partnership and private investments and the determination to make decisions based on commercial and viability considerations are welcome departures from ad hoc measures that punctuated the earlier regime for a decade.

While welcoming the Railway Minister’s initiative to improve track and start high speed trains, Dr. JP pointed out that bullet trains will be highly expensive and unviable unless traffic density is very high and passengers are willing and capable of paying high fares. Against such a backdrop, it is pleasing to note that the Railway Minister is ready to pursue low-cost options after a survey by the Japanese.

Dr. JP also suggested that an independent statutory railway authority be created to maintain the track and signalling systems so that there can be genuine competition   between public and private train operators.

Referring to the focus on Maharashtra and Karnataka in the railway budget, Dr. JP noted that old habits die hard. The Government should take decisions based on economic rationale and commercial viability and not succumb to populism in such a vital sector as the railways.  INN

NTPC CMD calls on Naidu

Hyderabad, July 8 :  NTCP Chairman & Managing Director Anup Roy along with N N Mishra, Dir. (Operations) and A K Jha, Dir. (Technical) met  Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu here on Tuesday.

JSV Prasad (Principal Sec. Industries, Go AP), G Sai Prasad (Sec. to CM, GoAP), Ajay Jain (Sec. Energy, GoAP), Vijayanand (MD, APGENCO & CMD APTRANSCO) were also present.

The Chief Minister requested CMD/NTPC to expedite work on setting up of 4000 MW at Pudimadaka. Principal Sec. Industries was directed to finalize a suitable site within 15 days, so that NTPC can go ahead with setting up power project. He also requested the CMD/NTPC to build up 15 days coal stock at NTPC Simhadri.

The NTPC CMD informed that about 200 MW from NTPC Jhajjar & 100 MW from NTPC Barh can be provided to AP immediately. Naidu directed Energy Dept to avail power from the above projects by entering PPAs with the above projects. It was also decided to avail power from NTPC Farakka on long term basis.

The NPTC also agreed to set up a 300 MW solar park in Guntur Dist., through competitive bidding, so that AP can get solar energy at lowest tariff. This will add green energy to AP’s power portfolio.

Anup Rao also agreed to spare their railway sliding & allow MS Hinduja to take 4 rakes up to their coal yards. It would enable MS Hinduja to commission their 2X520 MW at the earliest.  INN

NTPC agrees to set up 4,000 MW plant at Ramagundam

Hyderabad, July 8 : The National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) has agreed to up 4000 MW Power Generation Plant at Ramagundam adjacent to their existing units as an expansion unit.

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao assured the NTPC Chairman and Managaing Director Dr. Arup Roy Choudhury, who called on him on Tuesday at the State Secretariat that the required coal linkage with NTPC, Government of India and the State will be taken up by the Telangana government.

He has agreed to provide the required land in Toto either from out of the available land or from acquiring from Singareni.

The Chief Minister also said that the government will undertake filling the mines with ash. The Chairman NTPC said that the work at the unit will commence immediately and first unit will be completed within 39 months. Necessary environmental clearances will be obtained by Telangana government for establishing the unit.

Suresh Chanda, Prl. Secretary Energy & CMD Transco, D Prabhakar Rao, CMD Genco and S Narsing Rao Prl.Secy. to CM were also present in the meeting.  INN

Ponnam asks TRS Govt to resolve farmers' issue

Hyderabad, July 8 : Former MP Ponnam Prabhakar on Tuesday advised Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao to focus on resolving the problems of farmers in Telangana State.

Speaking to media persons at Gandhi Bhavan here, Ponnam said that KCR should realise that people were out of campaigning mode and therefore, instead of making speeches, he must deliver. He said that the demolition of some illegal buildings could not be claimed as achievement. He said that the government needs to take practical steps to ensure that farmers get proper seeds and power supply. He said that the farmers were worried over bad monsoon and therefore, they need full assistance from the State Government.

Ponnam said that the TRS Government should focus on fulfilling its promises on waiving of agricultural loans, withdrawal of cases, continuation of fee reimbursement and pension schemes among others.  INN

Naidu wants to turn Hyderabad into controversial city: Vivek

Hyderabad, July 8 : Former MP G Vivek on Tuesday strongly opposed the proposed move by the Centre of delegating more powers to the Governor in the GHMC limits.

Speaking to media persons at Gandhi Bhavan, Vivek alleged that Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu was trying to create rift among Telugu people by turning Hyderabad into a controversial city. He alleged that it was Naidu who has pressurised the BJP-led Government at the Centre to increase the powers of Government. He said that the move to handover law and order control to the Governor is also aimed at scaring away investors from Hyderabad and Telangana region.

With regard to his own party, Vivek said that the Congress High Command should send a team to different districts to study the factors that led to party's defeat. He said that the Congress party has failed to capatalise the fact that it was Sonia Gandhi who granted statehood for the region. Else, he said that Telangana would have remained a dream for the next 100 years.  INN

YSR remembered on 65th birth anniversary

Idupulapaya/Hyderabad, July 8 : YSR Congress party president Jagan Mohan Reddy paid floral tribute to his father and late chief minister Dr YS Rajasekhara Reddy on his 65th birth aniverssary at his "samadhi" here on Tuesday.

YSR Congress Party honorary president Y S Vijayamma, daughter Sharmila, daughter-in-law Bharathi, YSR's brother Vivekananda Reddy and other leaders observed silence and paid rich tributes to YSR. Hundreds of followers also paid rich tributes to Dr YSR and recalled his welfare measures for the society.

Meanwhile, in Hyderabad, Telangana PCC chief Ponnala Lakshmiah, Andhra PCC chief Raghuveera Reddy and other Congress leaders paid rich tributes to late YSR by garlanding his statue at Somajiguda. Speaking to media persons later, Ponnala and Raghuveera Reddy said that the services of YSR towards the people, State and Congress party would be remembered forever. They said that YSR was still ruling the hearts of all Telugu people.  INN

Monday 7 July 2014

Anil Ambani calls on KCR

Hyderabad, July 7 : Reliance Group Chairman Anil Ambani called on Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao here on Monday.

During the meeting, Anil Ambani expressed his desire to make fresh investments in Telangana region in different sectors. The Chief Minister has offered full support and fast pace clearances for the investment proposals discussed by Anil Ambani.

IT Minister K Tarakarama Rao and CMO Principal Secretary Narsing Rao were also present.  INN

KTR describes Naidu as "Guest of Telangana"

Hyderabad, July 7 : Telangana Information Technology Minister K Tarakarama Rao on Monday described Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu as "Guest of Telangana" and asked him to stay out of its affairs.

Speaking to media persons here, KTR accused Naidu of interfering in the affairs of Telangana, he advised him to stop pressurising the Centre to grant more powers to the Governor. He said that the TRS Government would never tolerate the interference of either Chandrababu Naidu or Central Government. Stating that the Law & Order was State subject, he said that any move by the Centre to transfer the powers to the Governor would be opposed and the TRS Government would approach the court, if required.  INN

KCR predicts three-fold expansion of Hyderabad

Hyderabad, July 7 : Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao on Monday reiterated that his government was firm on ensuring overall development of Telangana State.

Addressing the brainstorming session with his Cabinet colleagues, district Collectors, Joint Collectors and officials concerned at the MCR HRD Institute here, KCR said that the TRS Government would fulfill all the promises that it made with the people. He made it clear that the farm loan waiver promise would be fulfilled at any cost and the same would be finalised during the next meeting of the State cabinet. He also announced the setting up of a State Advisory Board comprising representatives from different sections of the society.

The Chief Minister announced that Hyderabad would grow by three-fold from its present size after the completion of different projects, especially the Information Technology Investment Region. Besides setting up agricultural research centres at various places, a Research Center will be set up in Medak while the Turmeric Research Center would be established in Nizamabad. Taking advantage of presence of ICRISAT, the city would be converted into the “Seed Bowl” of India.

KCR also made it clear that maintenance of law and order would be given top priority in Telangana. He said there was no space for illegal activities in Telangana, especially Hyderabad. He strongly defended the demolition of illegal structure in the city. He also assured action against those involved in Rs 235 crore Housing scam and fake ration cards.

KCR said that two new airports would be set up in Telangana. While the first airport will be located at Keesara, the other one will be constructed at Shamirpet.

The Chief Minister also hinted at scrapping some of the laws that existed in united Andhra Pradesh. Stating that the Telangana State has 8,500 Sarpanches, 6,473 MPTC, 441 ZPTC and MPP, 62 Municipalities, six corporations, 1,388 municipal wards, he said that the Panchayat Raj System would be revived for fast addressing of grievances. He said that the development plans need to be formulated at village levels.

The Chief Minister also listed out various plans that his government proposes to implement.  INN

Ganta confident of sorting out fee reimbursement tangle

Hyderabad, July 7 : Andhra Pradesh HRD Minister Ganta Srinivas Rao on Monday said that the issue of nativity for fee reimbursement would be sort out soon after meeting his counterparts in Telangana.

Ganta said that common issues between both the States would be discussed and a consensus decision would be taken soon. Without naming he hinted and asked Telangana government not to create unnecessary constitutional crisis like situation by giving confusing statements on fee reimbursement. Answering a question on this issue he said, “The question that who will pay for reimbursement rise later but there is no need to create constitutional crisis like situation with confusing statements.”

A decision pertaining to nativity should be taken under the guidelines of Article 371 D, Mulki rules and constitution but not others, he said. Commenting on reports that Telangana government was considering 1956 as reference date for deciding nativity he said that his government did not receive any official communication. Arguing that determining nativity is not a state subject he said that if needed AP government will ask centre to intervene and take a decision. About delay in release of GO for fee reimbursement in his state he said, “Let Telangana government take decision first, there is lot of confusion as to what decision Telangana government will take.”

Ganta was speaking at an even organized by the Rajiv Gandhi University of Knowledge Technology (RGUKT). He informed that AP government has taken a decision to enhance the management quota from five to 15 percent for EAMCET counseling this year.  INN

OU’s Ph D Course Work English exam on July 9

Hyderabad, July 7 : Osmania University’s Controller of Examinations has informed that the Ph.D. Course Work (Part – I ) English Examination will be held on July 9.

In a media release, the Controller said that the exam was earlier scheduled to be held on July 4 and was postponed. Therefore, now the exam will be held on July 9 (Wednesday) from 2 pm to 5 pm.  INN

Naidu seeking more powers for Guv in GHMC, alleges TJR

Hyderabad, July 7 : Former minister T Jeevan Reddy on Monday accused Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu pressuring the Centre to grant more powers to Governor in the GHMC limits.

Speaking to media persons at the Congress Legislature Party office here, Jeevan Reddy said that Naidu has hatched a larger conspiracy to weaken the people of Telangana by taking away all their powers. He alleged that Naidu has convinced the Centre to bring an Amendment in the AP Reorgnisation Act to delegate more powers, including Law and Order in the GHMC limits, to the Governor.

Jeevan Reddy announced that the Congress party would strongly oppose the move in the Parliament. Further, he said that the party would organise protests if the Centre introduces any such amendment.  INN

Jagan blames Naidu for TDP atrocities

Hyderabad, July 7 : Holding Chandrababu Naidu directly responsible for the blatant murder of democracy in the just concluded municipal and local body chairperson elections, YSR Congress Party president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy today expressed hope that Governor ESL Narasimhan would take steps to enquire into the TDP Government’s atrocities that marked the election process and take suitable action.

Speaking to media persons outside Raj Bhavan here after leading a party delegation to the Governor and submitting memorandum on the issue, Jagan Mohan Reddy said Chandrababu’s stoic silence on the perpetration of illegalities by his party men confirmed that he was behind the pre-planned murder of democratic process during the elections.

“If he is not involved, why didn’t he condemn the undemocratic incidents?” he asked, adding that the entire government machinery was totally misused to orchestrate majority for the TDP even in places where YSRCP had clear majority.

Even district collectors and SPs went out of their way and obeyed the illegal orders of their political boss Chandrababu Naidu by remaining mute spectators to the horrifying spectacle of kidnapping, poaching, intimidating and baiting of YSRCP councilors and MPTC and ZPTC members.

“If you want to gain control of the municipal and local bodies in the most illegal way you did, why did you conduct elections first of all? That could have been done through nominations as well,” Jagan Mohan Reddy asked Chandrababu.

Jagan Mohan Reddy said that municipal councilors and local body members who were elected on party tickets were subjected to undue influences in an unprecedented manner to eliminate the opposition in the state.  “TDP has resorted to these illegalities to divert people’s attention from his total failure to implement his poll promises. But the real opposition to his government are the people and they will take the rulers to task by holding their collars one day for their failures,” he observed.

The YSRCP chief said that though YSRCP had majority in four ZPPs, it could win only Kadapa because of the unfair means adopted by the TDP. “TDP forced postponement of the elections to Nellore and Prakasam ZPP chair persons despite having the quorum. We had majority in 239 mandals but won only 200. In municipalities, we should have won 36 but we won only 19 all because of TDP atrocities,” he said, wondering if there is democracy in the state at all. “Chandrababu Naidu is openly encouraging TDP workers to attack YSRCP cadres.”

Saying that people are living in the grip of fear following the TDP’s illegalities in the local body chairperson elections, Jagan Mohan Reddy said the only achievement of TDP after coming to power is the killing of 17 YSRCP activists beside injuring 110 others.

“50 per cent of the victims of TDP violence are SCs and women,” he said, adding that police are refusing to register cases against TDP leaders and workers and even if cases are registered in some cases, police are taking no action.

“By-elections will take place to Allagadda and Nandigama assembly constituencies soon and to the Nandyala parliamentary constituency also after the disqualification of SPY Reddy. I doubt the Government’s willingness to conduct these elections in a peaceful manner,” he said and added:  “We will soon meet PM, President and Union Home Minister also to complain against the TDP’s illegalities.”  INN

Jagan blames Naidu for TDP atrocities

Hyderabad, July 7 : Holding Chandrababu Naidu directly responsible for the blatant murder of democracy in the just concluded municipal and local body chairperson elections, YSR Congress Party president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy today expressed hope that Governor ESL Narasimhan would take steps to enquire into the TDP Government’s atrocities that marked the election process and take suitable action.

Speaking to media persons outside Raj Bhavan here after leading a party delegation to the Governor and submitting memorandum on the issue, Jagan Mohan Reddy said Chandrababu’s stoic silence on the perpetration of illegalities by his party men confirmed that he was behind the pre-planned murder of democratic process during the elections.

“If he is not involved, why didn’t he condemn the undemocratic incidents?” he asked, adding that the entire government machinery was totally misused to orchestrate majority for the TDP even in places where YSRCP had clear majority.

Even district collectors and SPs went out of their way and obeyed the illegal orders of their political boss Chandrababu Naidu by remaining mute spectators to the horrifying spectacle of kidnapping, poaching, intimidating and baiting of YSRCP councilors and MPTC and ZPTC members.

“If you want to gain control of the municipal and local bodies in the most illegal way you did, why did you conduct elections first of all? That could have been done through nominations as well,” Jagan Mohan Reddy asked Chandrababu.

Jagan Mohan Reddy said that municipal councilors and local body members who were elected on party tickets were subjected to undue influences in an unprecedented manner to eliminate the opposition in the state.  “TDP has resorted to these illegalities to divert people’s attention from his total failure to implement his poll promises. But the real opposition to his government are the people and they will take the rulers to task by holding their collars one day for their failures,” he observed.

The YSRCP chief said that though YSRCP had majority in four ZPPs, it could win only Kadapa because of the unfair means adopted by the TDP. “TDP forced postponement of the elections to Nellore and Prakasam ZPP chair persons despite having the quorum. We had majority in 239 mandals but won only 200. In municipalities, we should have won 36 but we won only 19 all because of TDP atrocities,” he said, wondering if there is democracy in the state at all. “Chandrababu Naidu is openly encouraging TDP workers to attack YSRCP cadres.”

Saying that people are living in the grip of fear following the TDP’s illegalities in the local body chairperson elections, Jagan Mohan Reddy said the only achievement of TDP after coming to power is the killing of 17 YSRCP activists beside injuring 110 others.

“50 per cent of the victims of TDP violence are SCs and women,” he said, adding that police are refusing to register cases against TDP leaders and workers and even if cases are registered in some cases, police are taking no action.

“By-elections will take place to Allagadda and Nandigama assembly constituencies soon and to the Nandyala parliamentary constituency also after the disqualification of SPY Reddy. I doubt the Government’s willingness to conduct these elections in a peaceful manner,” he said and added:  “We will soon meet PM, President and Union Home Minister also to complain against the TDP’s illegalities.”  INN

Sunday 6 July 2014

TITA - NRI Wing officially inaugurated by Prof. Kondandaram in USA

Hyderabad, July 6 : The Telangana Information Technology Association (TITA) has officially inaugurated its NRI WING by Telangana JAC Chairman Prof. M. Kodandaram, TNGO President Mr. Devi Prasad, TRS MLA Gongidi Sunitha and TITA Honorary President V Prakash on Saturday at The Pennsylvania Convention Centre, Philadelphia, PA, USA.

The program started with paying tribute to all those who sacrificed their life’s for the cause of Telangana followed by Telangana state anthem ‘Jaya Jaya he Telangana’. Warm welcome note by TITA North American Chapter President Mr. Vishnu Inugala explained the purpose of TITA and its objectives to the participants.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof Kodandaram recalled the TITA contributions to the Telangana movement. He said that the participation of intellectual group like TITA has provided a huge boost for the Telangana Movement. TNGO President Devi Prasad requested TITA - NRI Wing to take active participation in rebuilding of Telangana by conducting knowledge sharing sessions with IT and Business Aspirants. He appealed them to share the inputs or suggestions to the Government of Telangana in policy making for employment creation. TRS MLA Gongidi Sunitha requested every Telangana NRI to come forward in helping in development of Telangana region by whatever means they can.

“We started TITA - NRI WING to play a vital role in rebuilding of Telangana by building a communication bridge between Telangana NRI’s intellectual tank team and the people of Telangana for knowledge transfer in various sectors by arranging weekly video sessions with respective beneficiaries. TITA NRI Wing will guide Telangana Students for Higher Education in Abroad, especially in choosing the best colleges, best suitable skills and job market awareness. TITA NRI Wing will promote the culture and festivals of Telangana in NRI Community,” said TITA Honorary President V. Prakash.

TITA North American Chapter President Mr. Vishnu Inugala, North American Chapter Vice President Shravan Vullengala, Manoj Thatikonda, and many IT Professionals participated in the event from TITA NRI Wing.  INN

SHC promises better facilities during Haj 2014

Hyderabad, July 6 : AP State Haj Committee Special Officer Prof S A Shukoor expressed his determination to provide better facilities to the Haj pilgrims and said that the Haj Committee has been making all endeavors in this  direction.

Prof Shukoor said that this year the Central Haj committee will provide food to the pilgrims in Madeenah Munnawarah, so that they can spend their time in prayers and supplications. He introduced six Khadim- ul-Hujjaj present on this occasion and said that the pilgrims can contact them during Haj in case of emergencies, their phone numbers will be provided to the pilgrims at the  time of departure. He said that the Haj Committee will provide free Sim Cards with all necessary numbers of important of important officials and institutions.  He said that the pilgrims will be provided ten liters of Zam Zam water cans to the pilgrims on their arrival back at the Hyderabad airport.

He said that so far 293 Haj Applicants from the Waiting List were provisionally selected for Haj 2014.

Executive Officer and former Member Shaik Shareef was also present on this occasion. The programme commenced with recitation of verses from the Holy Qur’an. Irfan Shareef read out the Na;at. Moulana Mufti Javeed explained the Haj and Umra rituals, while Dr. Fazaluddin explained details about visiting Madeenah Munnawara. Special arrangements were made for lady pilgrims.   INN

KCR asks TRS activists to focus on development of Telangana

Hyderabad, July 6 : Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao on Sunday asked the TRS leaders and workers to focus on the overall development and growth of Telangana State.

Addressing the ZPTC and MPTC members of Warangal district at his camp office here, KCR said that the TRS needs to retain power from Panchayat to State level to ensure speedy development of Telangana. He said that the local bodies play a crucial role in the development of any State and through effective decentralisation of development schemes, Telangana should emerge as a model State in the country.

Deputy Chief Minister Dr T Rajaiah, Lok Sabha MP Vinod Kumar and other senior leaders were also present.  INN

TRS MPs to raise Polavaram issue in Parliament session

Hyderabad, July 6 : Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao on Sunday directed his party MPs to raise the issue of Polavaram Project in the upcoming session of Parliament.

According to sources, KCR asked the TRS MPs to strongly oppose the ordinance that facilitated the merger of seven mandals of Khammam district into Seemandhra. TRS Parliamentary Party leader K Keshava Rao suggested that the Telangana Government should serve a notice to the Centre on the issue. However, it was finally decided that the Polavaram issue would be raised in the Parliament by seeking support from the friendly parties.

The Chief Minister was also concerned with the move of the Central Government to delegate more powers to the Governor. KCR reportedly asked his party MPs to raise the issue in the Parliament against the proposed move. The TRS MPs have also been asked to meet Union Ministers separately with a list of demands for their departments concerned.

The TRS MPs would also demand Special Status for Telangana State with the Centre.  INN

Telangana Govt plans to extend NREGS

Hyderabad, July 6 : Telangana Government is seriously planning to extend the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS) by linking minor irrigation with the same.

Speaking to media persons after holding a review meeting with the officials at his residence here on Sunday, Panchayat Raj Minister K Tarakarama Rao said that the government was planning to assign the minor irrigation works to jobless rural masses instead of engaging private contractors. He said that government was also considering increase the mandays of NREGS from the present 100 days in a year.

The minister asked the officials to compile and submit a detailed report on the implementation of NREGS in Telangana State.  INN

T-Assembly's budget session in August last week

Hyderabad, July 6 : The budget session of Telangana State Legislative Assembly is likely to be held in the last week of August this year.

According to sources, the 40-day session will be begin in the last week of August and will last till second week of September. Finance Minister Etela Rajender will present the first budget of Telangana State.

It was on May 18, when Governor ESL Narasimhan has approved the authorisation of expenditure fund of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana states for a period of four months from June 2. A budget of Rs 26, 516 crore was approved for Telangana State. It included Rs 21,295 crore as the Revenue budget and Rs 3,046 crore as the Capital budget.

Similarly, Rs 34,595 crore was approved for Andhra Pradesh which included Rs. 28,626 crore as the Revenue budget while Rs 3,882 crore was the Capital budget.  INN

State Government takes control of Bhoodan Trust office

Hyderabad, July 6 : Following a decision to conduct probe into its activities, the Telangana Government took the Bhoodan Trust office under its direct control.

Deputy Chief Minister Mahmood Ali, who is also incharge of Revenue Department, informed INN that Principal Secretary (Revenue) BR Meena would take care of the affairs of the Bhoodan Trust. He had earlier announced the constitution of a committee to probe into the activities of Bhoodan Trust. As per estimates, about 80 per cent of Trust land in Nalgonda and Ranga Reddy has been given on lease or sold out to industries.  INN

Saturday 5 July 2014

Dattatreyya asks State Govt to bring back OU's lost glory

Hyderabad, July 5 : Secunderabad MP Bandaru Dattatreyya on Saturday demanded that the Telangana Government take immediate steps to bring back the lost glory of Osmania University, which will be completing 100 years of formation soon.

Speaking to media persons here, Dattatreyya said that the OU Management has failed to maintain its original status and did not approach the authorities even for NAC accreditation. He said Union HRD Minister Smriti Irani has assured of full cooperation in case the OU authorities or State Government need any assistance for the OU. He asked the TRS Government to prepare a detailed plan to celebrate the 100 years of OU formation and take immediate steps to restore its original glory.  INN

Centre committed to develop Telangana State: Kishan Reddy

Hyderabad, July 5 : Telangana BJP President G Kishan Reddy on Saturday assured that the BJP-led Government at the Centre was keen on the development of Telangana State.

Speaking to media persons here, Kishan Reddy said that the Telangana BJP delegation made representations with 14 Union Ministries and all of them have assured to provide funds and assistance for the State's development. He said Union Surface Minister Nitin Gadkari has assured to provide funds for three National Highways. The Centre will sanction Rs 244 crore for NH22, Rs 177 crore for NH 365 in Warangal and Rs 360 crore for Hyderabad-Srisailam national highway.

Similarly, the Centre was willing to restart the FCI godown in Ramagundem. The Centre is also considering inland water transport system connecting Godavari River to sea. He said that the BJP delegation has sought unallocated power of 1,000 MW for Telangana and a gas-based power plant for the State.

Kishan Reddy said that although the Centre was serious on development of Telangana, the TRS Government looks non-serious in seeking Centre's help. He said that the BJP was willing was act as a bridge between the State and Central Government.  INN

T-BJP asks KCR to return APNGOs land

Hyderabad, July 5 : The Bharatiya Janata Party has strongly condemned the TRS Government for taking back the land allotted to the APNGOs.

Speaking to media persons here, Telangana BJP president said that the land given to APNGOs was not for commercial or industrial purposes. He said that the land was meant for the welfare of employees of State Government and therefore, no conditions were laid at the time of allotment. He appealed Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao to return the land to APNGOs in the larger interest of Telangana. He said such moves might escalate the avoidable tension between the two States of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.

Kishan Reddy said that by taking away the land KCR was setting a bad precedent and would lead to animosity among the Telugu speaking people.  INN

TRS Govt orders probe into Bhoodan lands usage

Hyderabad, July 5 : Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mahmood Ali on Saturday informed that the State Government would order a high-level probe into the use and misuse of Bhoodan lands in the State.

Speaking to select media persons at the State Secretariat here, Mahmood Ali said that about 1-2 lakh acres of Bhoodan land exists in almost all districts of Telangana. However, the same has been put to misuse for commercial purposes. He said that the government would come out with a comprehensive policy on Bhoodaan lands after the receipt of enquiry report. A committee led by Principal Secretary is being constituted next week to probe into the matter.

The Deputy Chief Minister also informed that two senior officials of the rank of Joint Collector and RDO were being appointed in his Peshi to monitor the implementation of land reforms and their usage in the State. He also informed that new steps would be taken in the next 10 to 15 days to prevent irregularities in the Registration and Stamps Department.

Mahmood Ali claimed that Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has assured to consider the request of Telangana Government to provide Rs 600 crore to the revenue survey. He hinted that the Telangana Cabinet might take some important decisions on issues related to Revenue Department during its next meeting to be held on July 7.  INN

AP Govt firm on farm loan waiver: Dy CM

Kurnool, July 5 : Deputy Chief Minister KE Krishna Murthy on Saturday expressed confidence that Andhra Pradesh Government would soon find a solution to the issue of waiving of farmers' agricultural loans.

Speaking to media persons here, Krishna Murthy said that the government would hold consultations with the bankers and the senior officials of Reserve Bank of India on the issue. He said that the farmers need not worry about the objections raised by RBI over the schemes. He said that Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu was firm on waiving off farmers loans and he would ensure that the promise gets fulfilled.

The Deputy CM also informed that steps were being taken to convert Rayalaseema into an industrial hub. INN

Friday 4 July 2014

MRI vizianagaram municipality in acb net

Vizianagaram, July 4 : P. Eshwara Rao, Municipal Revenue Inspector, Vizianagaram Municipality, Vizianagaram (A-1)  was caught by the ACB officials when he demanded and accepted the bribe amount of Rs.10,000 through D. Venkateswara Rao, Bill Collector, Vizianagaram Municipality (A-2)  on   July 3, 2014 at evening hours near Library, Gajularega, Vizianagaram from the complainant K. Srinivasa Rao, Assistant Building contractor, Resident of  Vizianagaram for doing an official favour to assess and fix the house tax for newly constructed house of the complainant’s friend.

The A-2 D. Venkateswara Rao, Bill Collector received the bribe amount from the complainant and kept in his purse and put it in his right side pant pocket.  The bribe amount of Rs.10,000 was recovered from the A-2 at the  at the instance of A-1.  Relevant records were seized.

The accused officers were arrested and produced before the Hon’ble ACB Court, Visakhapatnam Case is under investigation.  INN

TRS Govt may revive Bangaru Talli scheme: KTR

Hyderabad, July 4 : Telangana Panchayat Raj Minister K Tarakarama Rao on Friday informed that Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao was keen to revive the Bangaru Talli scheme.

Speaking to media persons here, KTR said that the Bangaru Talli scheme has remained defunct for the last six months and it could be revived soon. He said that the scheme could benefit girl children if properly implement and a report has been sought from the officials on their proper implementation. He said that the TRS Government would introduce several new schemes to benefit the people directly.

Earlier, he also held review meeting with the Panchayat Raj Department and asked them to study the functioning of PR Department in Karnataka and Kerela to adopt the best practices.  INN

Ponguleti asks party to retire old Congressmen

Hyderabad, July 4 : Congress MLC Ponguleti Sudhakar Reddy on Friday advised the party's High Command to retire all the leaders who had lost recent elections and have crossed age.

In a letter written to AK Antony Committee, Ponguleti reportedly asked the party to encourage youth by giving them party posts and responsibilities. He said that the youth should take over the reins of Congress party in the State. He said all those who lost elections more than once should be denied posts and party tickets in future. Further, the youth should be appointed on important party posts, he said.  INN

Occupancy Certificate must to get water, power supply

Hyderabad, July 4 : GHMC Commissioner Somesh Kumar said that here after occupancy certificate will be a mandatory without that the applicants cannot get the permission of electricity as well as water connection.

In this context the GHMC is planning to improve the existing system so that every person who is applying for the building permission must also obtain the occupancy certificate. Most of the people are not applying for occupancy certificates because they do not have the necessity. Keeping in view of the above facts the GHMC is making the occupancy certificate is mandatory.

The Commissioner said that the idea is that everybody should come forward to obtain occupancy certificate.  In the last four and half years 50,424 applications were received seeking building permissions.

With regard to the Gurukul Trust Land, the Commissioner informed that a consolidated report is being prepared on the status of different properties.  INN

YSRCP demands action against Giddaluru SI

Hyderabad, July 4 : Demanding the suspension and arrest of Giddaluru Sub-Inspector for his highhanded behavior, YSR Congress has said that the TDP Government has been misusing official machinery to settle political scores.

“The SI has behaved in a very rude manner in the police station which resulted in the death of our party leader Bhaskar Reddy and we demand that he should be immediately suspended and arrested,” Party Giddaluru MLA M Ashok Reddy told reporters here on Friday.

A representation was made to this effect to the DGP, he said adding that false cases were being foisted on YSRCP workers across the state at the behest of TDP government. The Giddaluru incident shows the highhandedness of the SI, who has behaved in a very irrational manner and had beaten up a family following a tussle on a trivial issue.

When Bhasker Reddy, who was the chief of the cooperative society went to the police station pacify the situation, the SI behaved in a very rude manner resulting in his death.

“I went to the police station and held a peaceful dharna and demanded the suspension of the SI. The police in turn have booked a case of destruction of government property, (set a police jeep ablaze). While we are worried about the death of our leader the police have been pursuing about the case of jeep burning.

We have told them to investigate the two cases separately but nothing was done so far. We have brought the issue to the higher ups, “he said adding that YSRCP cadre was being implicated in false cases across the state.  INN

VHR asks Naidu, KCR to apologise with farmers

Hyderabad, July 4 : Rajya Sabha member V Hanumanth Rao on Friday demanded Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu and his Telangana counterpart K Chandrasekhar Rao to apologise with the farmers for their failure to honour the promise on waiving off farm loans.

Speaking to media persons at Gandhi Bhavan here, VHR alleged that both Naidu and KCR have cheated the farmers by promising that their agricultural loans would be waived off. However, he said that their failure to fulfill the promise has put the farmers in a new problem. The banks are about to include farmers in the defaulters' list and they were not in a position to seek fresh loans for the Khariff season.

VHR also expressed concern over the statement of SBI Chairman Arundhati Bhattacharya over agricultural loans waiver promise. He demanded both Naidu and KCR to pressurise the Centre or seek Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intervention on the issue.

The Congress MP also asked the TRS Government to take steps to remove encroachments from the Wakf properties in the State.  INN

GHMC chief asks staff to get serious on ‘Monsoon Action Plan’

Hyderabad, July 4 : GHMC Commissioner Somesh Kumar reiterated that the preparation of ‘Monsoon Action Plan’ is the responsibility of Zonal and Deputy Commissioners.

The Commissioner held a review meeting on Bonalu and Ramzan arrangements, Monsoon action plan and Corporator budget of North Zone in his chambers on Friday. He said that the Monsoon action plan includes the details regarding basic introduction of the circle including population, area, road length, nalas, lakes, average rainfall, average rainy days and number rain gauges in the circle, details of potholes, low lying areas, water logging points, material kept ready to tackle monsoon emergencies, no. of monsoon teams, local persons to be contacted in critical situations, dilapidated buildings, bottle necks, dangerous cellars and drainage map.

Somesh Kumar opined that the ZCs and DCs are not taking keen interest in preparing monsoon action plan, which will be readymade help for them in times of urgency, which can be a basis for the betterment of the circle and said that this shows the callousness of the officials.

The Commissioner opined that monsoon teams are not provided with proper vehicles, they should be provided with jeeps to reach the spot in times of urgency but cars are hired in the names of monsoon teams and utilized by some officials. He said that some enquiry will be conducted in this regard, if found guilty the money will be recovered from the concerned officials.

Somesh Kumar asked the Executive Engineers to give a declaration stating that there are no potholes, missing manhole covers and unattended catch pits in their areas with in 3 days time. He said that declaring there are no water logging points is impossible but potholes, missing manhole covers and catch pits can be physically attended by engineering officials. He has directed the Zonal Commissioner to sanction all works relating to water logging points, irrespective of on which roads they are, since clearing water logging is the responsibility of GHMC.

The Commissioner directed the Deputy Commissioners to prepare an action plan, for celebrating Bonalu and Ramzan in their jurisdiction, including important temples and mosques of their jurisdiction, important dates, congregation size, procession routes, road maps works sanctioned area wise, regular lighting and temporary lighting. He further said that the state government is giving much importance to these festivals and instructed to bestow their full attention on these works and see that people feel the positive change in the way the festivals are celebrated.

Somesh Kumar said that works are not sanctioned under Corporator budget, though clear guidelines were given, directed to complete the sanctioning process in 2 days and advised not to stop all other works for simple doubts. The prioritization of works guidelines include maximum of Rs. 1.90 Crore in outer & Rs. 1.40 Crore area can be used for engineering works, at least Rs. 10 lakhs should be used for UCD activities, not more than Rs. 30 lakhs can be used for building works and in outer areas for slums maximum of 5 power bore wells and in core maximum 2 power bores can be taken up etc.,

The Commissioner informed that the Malkajgiri circle stood last in collecting telephone numbers of property owners, they could collect 52% of telephone numbers where the GHMC average is 63%, he said. The Commissioner wondered why GHMC people can’t collect the telephone numbers soon after distributing the demand bills, directed to complete the collection of telephone numbers within 15 days and further directed not to pay a single pie for transaction without collecting telephone number simultaneously
           
Preeti Meena, ZC (North Zone) , T Anjaneyulu, Chief Engineer, N Ravi Kiran, Additional Commissioner (Health & Sanitation) and Deputy Commissioners V. Mamatha (Quthbullapur), P. Saroja (Alwal), M. Venkateswarlu (Malkajgiri) and ED Vijaya Raju (Secunderabad) were also present.  INN

Thursday 3 July 2014

TDP misusing official machinery: YSRCP

Hyderabad, July 3 : Charging the TDP Government with misusing of official machinery to win over numbers in the civic body elections, YSR Congress has said it is only to boast that they could get seats despite not implementing the poll promises but in reality people are vexed with the policies of the ruling party.

“TDP has been misusing money and official machinery and is trying every trick in the book to lure the municipal corporators and ward members and is engineering defections, all at the behest of chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu,” party official spokesperson Vasireddy Padma told reporters here on Thursday.

At Jamalamadugu, where YSRCP has absolute majority, the election was postponed though there was quorum which shows gross misuse of official machinery by TDP. At Chirala, MLA Amanchi Krishna Mohan was attacked as he supported YSRCP.

At all places the members are lured, coerced, kidnapped or threatened only to get the numbers to win the top spot in the civic body polls. We have already complained locally and had taken up the issue with the State Election Commission but there was no tangible result.   

TDP has been mobilizing all its forces as if the stakes are high as it did not move an inch towards fulfilling the poll promises. “This is only to show off that they are getting numbers even without implementing poll promises but people will react at an opportune time in an appropriate manner. Such victory has no sanctity,” she said

We have issued a whip and action will be taken after due consideration, she said adding that the TDP had heavily spent money in these elections and the way the polls are held is a blot on democracy, she said.  INN

MIM wins Bhainsa Chairman’s post

Hyderabad, July 3 : The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) has won the post of Chairman and Vice-Chairman in Bhainsa of Nizamabad district.

While MIM candidate Sabiha Begum was elected as Chairman, Md Jaber Ahmed got elected as Vice-Chairman of Bhainsa Municipality. Similarly, the MIM candidates emerged victorious on six other municipalities. They are Nirmal (Azeem Bin Yahya), Mohammed Farooq (Adilabad), Mohammad Rafi (Korultla), Sayyed Sajid Ali (Tandur), Mohammed Qadeer (Bodhan) and Azmath Pasha (Zaheerabad).

Mohammed Faheem has also been elected as the Deputy Mayor of Nizamabad Municipal Corporation. INN

DFRC takes action against 100 schools over exorbitant fee

Hyderabad, July 3 : The Hyderabad District Fee Regulatory Committee comprising District Collector Mukesh KUmar Meena and and DEO A Subba Reddy has taken action against 100 schools in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad.
 
Speaking to media persons here, Meena informed that the DFRC has close down 100 schools for violation of DFRC norms. However, 42 schools immediately approached the DFRC and were asked to submit fresh request for recognition. He said that the DFRC might consider the requests if the schools approach the authorities within three days with a proper free structure. He said of 118 schools who were served notices, action has been initiated against 100 erring schools.
 
He admitted that one Telangana Private Institutions Association went to High Court against the actions of DRFC. However, he said that he would speak to the Principal Secretary of Education Department and Advocate General in this regard.
 
Meena advised the school managements to install the board displaying the fee structure by July 7. He said that DFRC would hold a meeting with Parents' Associations on July 10 and the next day grievances cells would be held in all mandals of Hyderabad. He asked Inspector and Deputy Inspector of Schools to take prompt action on the complaint of parents.
 
Meanwhile, in a different development, the Directorate of School Education has imposed a ban on the use of flash name like 'Concept', 'e-Shastra', 'Olympaid' or 'Techno' for the schools.  INN

GHMC proposes to develop 150 KM road stretches

Hyderabad, July 3 : GHMC Commissioner Somesh Kumar directed the officials of HMR, R&B, National Highways  to put the proposals for overall development of 150 kilometers of road stretches which includes major Tourism spots attractions, shopping area, the venue for Metropolis and the accommodation of delegates. The Commissioner held a review meeting on arrangements to be made for the “Metropolis” with all the heads of line departments in his chambers today.

The Commissioner directed them to give proposals in a way that the roads ensure smooth ride of International standards. He has directed the officials to submit the list of the roads before 6th July (irrespective of the ownership of the roads) in order to put up the proposals before Government for seeking funds. He said that the road works will be taken up with a view to complete the total recarpeting of roads before 15th September 2014 with defect liability period.

Someh Kumar directed the Urban Biodiversity Wing officials of GHMC to renovate all the works which were basically taken up for COP-11 and to develop the 125 kilometers main roads stretch with seasonal flowering such as Mary Gold and Petunias. He further directed the UBD officials to plan for some more new proposals of fountains in important locations.

The Commissioner directed the HMR officials to concentrate more on Road No 36, Jubilee Hills. He also directed the Tourism officials to prepare the tender document for providing LED lighting at all historical monuments and important buildings in a way to change the colour of lighting depending on the mood of the city.  He further directed the Tourism Officials to coordinate with the GMR authorities in Airport to take care of delegates journey from Airport to accommodation, accommodation to Venue and back. 

Central Zone Commissioner D Ronald Rose, HMR Managing Director NVS Reddy, Engineer-in-Chief R Dhan Singh and other senior officials participated in the meeting.  INN

Shankar Rao seeks withdrawal of cases against him

Hyderabad, July 3 : Former minister Dr P Shankar Rao on Thursday requested Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao to withdraw cases filed against him by the then Kiran Kumar Reddy Government.

Speaking to media persons at the State Secretariat here, Shankar Rao asked KCR to examine the cases filed against him by the previous government. Describing the cases as false and fabricated, he said he was implicated in the case as he waged a fight against corruption in the cases against Jagan Mohan Reddy, Gali Janardhan Reddy and others. He said all the cases filed against him by Kiran Kumar Reddy and the then DGP V Dinesh Reddy should be withdrawn.

Shankar Rao also demanded increase in his personal security.  INN

Telangana BJP delegation meets Union Ministers

Hyderabad, July 3 : BJP floor leader in Assembly Dr K Laxman on Thursday informed that a delegation of senior BJP leaders called on several Union Ministers seeking their help for the development of Telangana.

Speaking to media persons here, Dr Laxman said that a delegation led by Secunderabad MP Bandraru Dattatreyya and Telangana BJP president G Kishan Reddy met several Union Ministers seeking new projects for the Telangana State. He said that the BJP leaders also sought the help of Central leaders in sorting out the differences between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana over energy and water crisis. He said that the Telangana BJP leaders were willing to coordinate with the Centre over the issues concerning the State.

However, Dr Laxman said that the Telangana Government should come out with a clear policy on major issues.  INN

Policing in Hyderabad will go international: Nayani

Hyderabad, July 3 : Telangana Home Minister Nayani Narasimha Reddy expressed confidence that the model of London and New York City Police could be replicated in Hyderabad.

In an informal chat with the reporters at the State Secretariat here on Thursday, Nayani said that efforts were on to bring about a revolutionary change in the policing in Hyderabad. He informed that the Telangana DGP and Commissioners of Hyerabad and Cyberabad would leave for London and New York to study the law and order and traffic management in both the cities. If permitted by Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, Nayani said he too would accompany the police officials on their tour after Bonalu festival.

Nayani informed that the Telangana Cabinet would soon take a decision on the recruitment of constables and Home Guards in the State. He reiterated that nearly 2000 CCTV cameras would be installed in the twin cities for effective control of law and order, especially to maintain communal harmony. He said the city police would be equipped with 1600 well-equipped cars and 1750 new bikes. The dress code of the City Police too would be changed to blue, he said.  INN

93 more pilgrims selected for Haj 2014

Hyderabad, July 3 : AP State Haj Committee Special Officer Prof S A Shukoor has announced that 93 Haj pilgrims under Waiting List have been provisionally selected against cancellation for Haj 2014.

Earlier, 200 Haj Pilgrims under Waiting were selected for the Haj 2014. He requested the selected pilgrims to pay their full Haj amount per head as per their category of accommodation within ten days in the Account of Haj Committee of India in the SBI through Core Banking. The pilgrims should obtain their Bank reference Numbers before making the payment, as the number has to be quoted on the Bank Challan.

He further appealed to these pilgrims to submit their original Passport along with a colour 3.5 X 3.5 size photo with white background and the copy of the Bank Challan. Details and the Bank Reference Number can be obtained from the office of the AP State Haj Committee, Haj House, Nampally, Hyderabad (Phone No. 040- 2329 8793). Bank Reference Number can be downloaded from the website of the Haj Committee of India, www.hajcommittee.com.  INN

Wednesday 2 July 2014

Venkaiah suggests 'preventive' approach to deal illegal constructions

New Delhi, July 2 : Union Minister of Urban Development M Venkaiah Naidu on Wednesday called for a radical shift in approaches to urban planning, development and management to effectively meet the growing challenges of urbanization being driven by LPG (Liberalisation, Privatisation and Globalisation).

In his keynote address at the workshop of Secretaries of Urban Development, Housing and Local Bodies of central and state/UT governments here, Naidu underscored that people are keen about delivery of quality and assured services for which they are willing to pay and this needs to be factored in urban planning.

Naidu suggested a ‘preventive’ approach to address the issues of illegal constructions and encroachments through strict enforcement of transparency and accountability on the part of all concerned. To bridge the rural-urban divide, he suggested efficient ‘regional urban planning’ using appropriate technologies like GIS. The Minister stressed the need for ensuring effective public transportation in urban areas besides drinking water, solid waste management, sanitation, conservation of nature and energy.

Venkaiah Naidu said the Narendra Modi led government is committed to ensure housing for all by the year 2022, the 75th Year of the country’s independence and to achieve this, ‘Team India’ approach is required with the states/union territories playing a pro-active role. He informed that all options are being explored to meet the huge resource requirement in this regard and the central government would put in place an enabling policy environment to realize active participation of all stakeholders including banking and financial institutions. He further said that ‘poor’ sections of the society are the primary focus of the central government and hence, the initiative of providing universal housing. The Minister emphasized the need for large scale skill up-gradation programme for empowering the youth for gainful employment.

Anita Agnihotri, Secretary, Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation and Urban Development said all stakeholders should learn from the experience of formulating and implementing various schemes like JNNURM and other initiatives and suggested ways and means for effective implementation of new initiatives being launched by the central government. She underscored the need for enhanced flow of credit to economically weaker sections (EWS) and low-income groups (LIG). She said housing shortage in urban areas is expected to rise to 300 lakh units in 2022 from the present about 190 lakhs.

Sudhir Krishna, former Secretary, Urban Development noted that there is a direct correlation between urbanization and economic growth and per capita income. He called for planned urbanization for reaping the benefits flowing from it.

Administrative secretaries from central and state/UT governments dealing with urban development, housing and urban local bodies have today held intensive brainstorming sessions on various related issues including implementation aspects. Ministers dealing with these subjects will deliberate on various issues tomorrow to draw up a way forward on new initiatives including Housing for All by 2022.  INN

Staff asked to expedite works near CM’s house

Hyderabad, July 2 : GHMC Commissioner Somesh Kumar along with Central Zone Commissioner D Ronal Rose and other officials of GHMC and HMWS&SB inspected the ongoing works of water stagnation points at Lake View Guest House and proposed baffle wall in nala at Lake View Guest House. The Commissioner directed the Zonal Commissioner and Superintending Engineer to expedite the works on priority.

The Commissioner along with the team of officials visited Sewerage Treatment Plant of HMDA near Indira Gandhi Statue, Necklace road and inspected the ongoing works of Regulatory Shutter Arrangement at Sewerage Treatment Plant (STP) in place of existing diversion weir of STP and instructed to take up nala widening from foot bridge at Sewerage Treatment Plant to clear water outlet of STP duly providing sand bags protection.

He also directed the Director (Operations) HMWSSB Rameshwar Rao to take up works pertaining to erection of gates on priority and further instructed the GHMC officials to take up redesiltation of Balkapur nala and also to take up pumping arrangements from Pension Office at Road No.1 to STP at Khairatabad.  INN