Latest news with #Deepam

The Hindu
a day ago
- Business
- The Hindu
TDP MLA Ganta Srinivasa Rao ridicules ‘Vennupotu Dinam', he says Jagan has not learnt a lesson yet
Ridiculing the YSR Congress Party's (YSRCP) idea of observing 'Vennupotu Dinam' to mark the formation of one year of the NDA government, Bheemunipatnam MLA Ganta Srinivasa Rao stated that the YSRCP president, Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, appears to have learned nothing from the party's recent electoral defeat. Addressing a press conference at his residence in the city on Wednesday (May 4, 2025), Mr Ganta Srinivasa Rao said that typically, when a political party loses an election, their leader assesses the reasons behind the loss, conducts meetings with the cadre, and prepares strategies to rebuild public trust. However, in the case of Mr. Reddy, it seems like he believes the people committed a mistake by not voting for him. The former CM is unable to accept the fact that people have rejected him, he added. Mr. Srinivasa Rao alleged that over the past week, the YSRCP leaders have been staging unnecessary drama in the name of 'Vennupotu Dinam'. He also questioned the YSRCP leaders, what exactly is the purpose behind 'Vennupotu Dinam'. 'Is it to restart the Amaravati capital works that the YSRCP halted in the name of three capitals? Is it to secure funds for the Polavaram project or to bring the Prime Minister to Andhra Pradesh to lay the foundation for development projects worth thousands of crores?', he questioned. He further asked, 'Is it to revive the long-pending Metro Rail project or establish the Railway Zone which the YSRCP neglected? Is it to arrange a ₹12,000 crore financial package for the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (VSP), to which the former CM did not make a single attempt to protect it from privatisation?' The Bheemunipatnam MLA also dared the YSRCP leaders to come for a constructive debate on the implementation of promises made in their manifesto, instead of organising events like 'Vennupotu Dinam,' which he opined as meaningless. The MLA also criticised former CM Mr. Reddy, stating that the previous government took five years to raise pensions by just ₹1,000. He also accused the YSRCP of failing to fulfil major promises, such as liquor prohibition, the release of a job calendar, and a few others. He also stated that in the last one year, under the NDA government, several important assurances have already been implemented, including the Mega DSC recruitment drive, the revival of Anna Canteens, abolition of Land Titling Act, distribution of free LPG cylinders through the Deepam scheme, increase in pensions. He also reiterated that Chief Minister has already announced that the government will launch the 'Thalli Ki Vandanam' scheme on June 12, before the reopening of schools and also offer free bus travel for women starting August 15.


The Hindu
2 days ago
- Business
- The Hindu
Jagan is synonymous with backstabbing politics, alleges TDP MLA Gana Babu
The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) has criticised YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy and his party leaders for their move to observe 'Vennupotu Dinam' on June 4, marking the completion of one year of the NDA government in Andhra Pradesh. The TDP leaders argued that the NDA government had implemented several key poll promises in a year, including the enhancement of pensions, the Deepam scheme, Mega DSC recruitment drive, and the revival of Anna Canteens. Addressing the media at his camp office on Tuesday, TDP Visakhapatnam (West) MLA P.G.V.R. Naidu, popularly known as Gana Babu, described Mr. Jagan Mohan Reddy as arrogant, saying that the former Chief Minister had not learnt any lesson from the people's verdict in the 2024 elections. 'Mr. Jagan Mohan Reddy is synonymous with backstabbing politics. He has amassed wealth by betraying the Congress during his tenure as an MP. Mr. Jagan Mohan Reddy's name surfaced in the controversial death of his uncle Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy. He betrayed even his mother and sister,' Mr. Gana Babu alleged. Questioning Mr. Jagan's achievements as the Chief Minister, Mr. Gana Babu demanded answers regarding the unfulfilled promises of liquor prohibition in State and the release of a job calendar. TDP Visakhapatnam president Gandi Babjee ridiculed the YSRCP leaders' statements on the NDA government, pointing out that the previous government took five years to increase pensions by ₹1,000 and now 'has the audacity to speak about betrayal'. He alleged that Mr. Jagan Mohan Reddy had betrayed the people of Andhra Pradesh in the name of three capitals.


Hans India
4 days ago
- Politics
- Hans India
Ration distribution programme inaugurated
Kakinada: Minister for Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Nadendla Manohar has announced that fair price shops will be developed as 'mini-malls' in future with the support of both the central and state governments. Speaking at the inauguration of the ration distribution programme at a fair price shop in Vakalapudi village of Kakinada Rural constituency, the minister said that arrangements are being made to supply millets such as ragi, jowar, bajra, and Korra in addition to rice, keeping public health in mind. Minister Manohar personally handed over ration supplies at the home of an elderly beneficiary Krishnasetty Gopal. He later addressed a public gathering, stating that around 8.15 lakh families across the state received ration supplies through 29,761 ration shops on Sunday morning. The minister said that the distribution of essentials through ration shops has long been a strong and transparent system, which had been damaged by the previous YSRCP government. He criticised the Mobile Dispensing Units (MDUs), saying their schedules were unclear and lacked proper records, and alleged that false claims were made about distributing 93% of ration in a single day. Manohar assured that the current coalition government is working to restore the dignity of ration dealers and urged them to serve the people with commitment. He also directed that price boards, stock boards, and informative posters be prominently displayed in all fair price shops. QR code scanners will soon be installed at ration depots to enable the public to report issues directly to officials. Minister Manohar mentioned that the government had purchased Rs 12,400 crore worth of paddy unmatched by any other state, and credited payments to the accounts of nearly 8 lakh farmers within 24 hours. 'Even before farmers return from the mills, money is being credited to their bank accounts,' he stated. He also noted that pensions are being distributed door-to-door from the first day of the month and stressed the Rs 894 crore allocation for providing a second LPG cylinder to women under the Deepam scheme. Civil Supplies Commissioner Saurabh Gaur stated that the government is collecting real-time data every 10 minutes regarding ration distribution from shops. He promised that technical glitches would soon be addressed and advised dealers to maintain courteous and respectful behaviour with the public. Joint collector Rahul Meena said efforts are underway to ensure timely and transparent distribution of essential commodities across 1,060 ration shops in 21 mandals of Kakinada district. Kakinada Rural MLA Pantam Nanaji, Government Whip in the Legislative Council Pidugu Hariprasad, DCCB Chairman Tummala Ramaswamy, Civil Supplies Corporation Chairman Thota Sudheer, former minister Chikkala Ramachandra Rao, former MLA Pendem Dorababu, and APSIDC Chairman Vegulla Leelakrishna participated in this programme. Earlier in the day, Minister Nadendla Manohar inaugurated the ration distribution programme at a fair price shop in the 18th ward of Pithapuram, represented by Deputy Chief Minister Konidela Pawan Kalyan. The event was attended by District Collector S Shan Mohan, DCCB Chairman Tummala Ramaswamy, Civil Supplies Corporation Chairman Thota Sudheer, former Pithapuram MLAs SVSN Varma and Pendem Dorababu, as well as Jana Sena party in-charge Marreddy Srinivas and other local leaders.


India.com
26-05-2025
- India.com
Know Why Coimbatore City Is the Perfect Destination For Backpackers
Coimbatore is often called 'The Manchester of South India' due to its textile industry. It is one of the biggest hubs for tourism in Tamil Nadu, as it is known for its affordable prices, rich culture, rich heritage, mouthwatering cuisine, and adventure. All of these features make Coimbatore one of the biggest operators of tourism in south India. Here are the seven reasons why Coimbatore is a must visit city for all backpackers: 1. Cheap Meals and Affordable Lodging Options One of the primary benefits of Coimbatore is its cost effectiveness. Backpackers around the world can visit Coimbatore to find cheap lodges, hostels, and even guest houses for as low as ₹300-₹500. Eateries also serve delicious food to the customers at affordable prices. It's amazing how one can enjoy such mouth-watering south Indian cuisine for such low prices. Overall, the living expense in Coimbatore is far less compared to Chennai or Bangalore, allowing travelers to utilize their remaining amount for other expenses. 2. Gateway to Western Ghats As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Coimbatore serves as a gateway to the Western Ghats- famous for its rich biodiversity. It is just an hour drive away from the city and includes lush green hills, serene lakes, and jaw Dropping waterfalls, perfect for day or weekend trips . A few famous places are Siruvani Falls, Anamalai Tiger Reserve , and Valparai. These places are a treasure for Bird watchers and photographers and for those who love adventure. Outdoorsy types will find everything they need here, which makes this place a go for backpackers. 3. Additional Fun Facts The city of Coimbatore does not fail to amaze with its blend of traditional Tamil and modern culture. The region is well known for its Deepam and Solaipalyam Dhoti. It is rich in history and has many temples, such as Perur Patteeswarar Temple and Marudamalai Temple, that have real ancient architecture. Artisans' markets are very popular and feature handlooms, bronze sculptures, and exquisite wood carvings that perfectly encapsulate the local craftsmanship. South Indian culture is really rich and by visiting these places you would not only learn about it but also meet some locals willing to talk about their life. 4. Ease of Transportation Getting around Coimbatore is not that difficult due to the well developed means of transportation. The city boasts an international airport, several railway stations, and a well-integrated bus system that links it to other major cities in India. Within the city, auto-rickshaws and app based cab services such as Ola and Uber are also very common. The low public transport fares also allow backpackers to travel without spending a lot of money. Furthermore, a lot of the sightseeing places are reachable by public buses or shared taxis, making it more convenient. 5. Delicious Local Cuisine Culinary enthusiasts will love Coimbatore which serves as a melting point of various settlements of the Tamil Nadu region. The cuisine is mouth watering as it serves crispy dosas, fluffy idlis with spicy chutneys, marvelous filter coffee, and many more. Then there are street food vendors selling various snacks such as mirchi bajji (spicy chili fritters) and kothu parotta (a masaledar chopped flatbread dish). Be sure to try Kongunadu cuisine, unique to this region and includes dishes like kuzhi paniyaram and keerai masiyal. There is so much food variety normally available at cheap prices that Coimbatore is a food lover's paradise. Final Thoughts Unlike other places, backpackers would not think of Coimbatore as their primary choice for a backpacking trip in India. However, this city's beauty lies in its diversity. There are multiple reasons why it is perfect for budget travelers – it has rich culture, mouth watering food, and hospitality. Not to forget, it is also combined with scenic landscapes which make it affordable and easy to travel to. Coimbatore is suitable for anyone, coming alone, as a couple or in a group. There are endless adventures waiting for you in the city, so grab your bags and shoes and get ready to explore this beautiful city, Japan's best kept secret.


Hans India
22-05-2025
- Politics
- Hans India
Govt to credit amount in women beneficiaries' accounts in advance
Vijayawada: The State government decided to remit amount towards free gas cylinder into the accounts of women beneficiaries in advance as part of Deepam-2 scheme phase-3, which will commence from August. The State Cabinet led by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu discussed at length over numerous complaints being received on the implementation of free gas cylinder scheme and finally decided to credit gas cylinder amount in advance into the accounts of women. Minister for Civil Supplies Nadendla Manohar, revealing the decisions of the State Cabinet, said that due to logistic and transaction issues and numerous complaints received from women beneficiaries over the delay in crediting the amount into their accounts, the Cabinet decided to remit the amount in advance before the commencement of Phase 3 of Deepam scheme. He said under Deepam-2 scheme in first phase, 99,70,000 women were benefited through delivery of free gas cylinder and in Phase 2, which is in force from April-July, 70,000 women booked free gas cylinders so far. He said giving top priority for welfare of women, the coalition government decided to credit gas cylinder amount in advance into the accounts of women beneficiaries to improve their satisfaction levels. It may be noted that the State government launched Deepam-2 free LPG cylinder scheme on October 31, 2024, during Diwali, aligning with its commitment to women's welfare, household financial security, and environmental conservation. With an annual expenditure of approximately Rs 3,000 crore, the scheme targets 1.1 crore eligible households, providing three free cylinders every year. However, the free gas cylinder scheme has failed to satisfy the women beneficiaries, as they have to pay the cylinder amount and delay in reimbursement of the amount and due to snags in delivery mechanism. As the State government received numerous complaints from people over free gas cylinder scheme and delay in crediting money into their accounts, the State Cabinet led by the Chief Minister decided to credit the gas cylinder amount in advance into the accounts of women beneficiaries. A part of it, the government will credit the gas cylinder amount into the account of around one crore women beneficiaries accounts in advance in Phase 3 which will commence from August.