Latest news with #PlanetSparkBook


Time of India
3 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu picks excise officer Dr Naresh as CEO of Smart Andhra Pradesh Foundation
Dr. Ch Naresh has been appointed CEO of the Smart Andhra Pradesh Foundation (SAPF) to drive Chief Minister Naidu's P-4 initiative, aimed at poverty alleviation. VIJAYAWADA: In a key decision to take the chief minister Chandrababu Naidu's brainchild P-4 initiative ahead, the state govt appointed a young official from excise and prohibition department, Dr Ch Naresh as chief executive officer (CEO) of Smart Andhra Pradesh Foundation (SAPF). Chief minister Chandrababu Naidu himself picked up Naresh from among several dozens of applicants after intense scrutiny by the senior officials. Dr Naresh, an excise and prohibition superintendent rank officer in the excise department, worked in National Health Mission (NHM) in deputation and initiated several pro-poor schemes. The CEO of SAPF will be chiefly responsible in coordinating with the top industrialists and philanthropists in execution of the P4 initiative designed to alleviate poverty in the state. The chief minister has appealed to the industrialists and NRIs to adopt at least four below the poverty line (BPL) families from their native places in the state and handhold them to sustain their finances. In fact, chief minister Naidu is personally speaking with the top industrialists and contractors coming to the state to bring the programme into reality. Already, several top industrialists have expressed their willingness to join hands with the state govt in strengthening the hands of the chief minister in alleviating poverty. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Transform Your Child's Confidence with Our Public Speaking Program Planet Spark Book Now Undo The SAPF would also ready plans to develop smart village, smart wards/divisions in the towns and cities before turning the entire state into Smart Andhra Pradesh. Chief minister Chandrababu Naidu, deputy chief minister Pawan Kalyan and a few senior officials including principal finance secretary Peeyush Kumar would be the members of the prestigious SAPF. Former vice-chairman of AP Planning Commission Turlapati Kutumba Rao will act as vice-chairman of the foundation. 'Smart Andhra Pradesh Foundation (SAPF) has been set up to help achieve the goal of transforming the lives of people through double-digit growth along with inclusive development. The foundation will play a strategic and catalytic role in realizing the vision of the chief minister Chandrababu Naidu. We will work closely with the policy makers at state and national level, key stakeholders including private sector and civil society for implementing innovative social and economic development initiatives for sustainable development of the state,' said Dr Naresh.


Time of India
3 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Dy NSA Pavan Kapoor meet US Under Secretary of Defence Elbridge Colby
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met US Under Secretary of Defence Elbridge Colby along with Indian deputy NSA Pavan Kapoor . Elbridge Colby shared a post on his 'X' handle and informed about the development. US' Under Secretary of Defence expressed his happiness after meeting Vikram Misri and Pavan Kapoor. He mentioned that the India-US alliance is based on "fundamentally strong ground based on shared interests and mutual respect." "It was great to meet today with India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Deputy NSA Pavan Kapoor. The U.S.-India alliance is on fundamentally strong ground based on shared interests and mutual respect. We here at DOD are striving hard to elevate defense cooperation as part of this critical partnership", the 'X' post said. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Transform Your Child's Confidence with Our Public Speaking Program Planet Spark Book Now Undo Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Deputy NSA Ambassador Pavan Kapoor on Thursday (local time) held an interaction with leading US think tank experts on India-US cooperation in defence, technology, and trade , as well as key regional and global developments. In a social Media post on X, the Embassy of India in the US wrote, "Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Deputy NSA Ambassador Pavan Kapoor held an engaging interaction with leading US think tank experts today. Wide-ranging discussions covered India-US cooperation in defence, technology, and trade, as well as key regional and global developments." Live Events Misri is currently in the United States for a three-day visit, during which he will meet with senior administration officials to discuss key areas of bilateral cooperation. Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said Misri met Under Secretary Jeffrey Kessler to advance India-US cooperation on critical and emerging technologies. "He led our delegation, comprising Deputy NSA for the Inter-Agency discussions on the India-US Compact for the 21st century. This meeting happened in the White House and focused on implementing trust initiatives which is about critical and emerging technology partnerships. They also discussed cooperation in area of defence and energy domains as well as strengthening the QUAD , IMEC, I2U2 initiatives," the spokesperson said. "Foreign Secretary also had a meeting with the Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau and they discussed all aspects of India-US relationship, In particular they agreed that tech, trade and talent will shape the India-US partnership in the 21st century and they both reaffirmed the commitment to further strengthening the India-US comprehensive global strategic partnership. All issues of mutual interest were discussed between India and the United States," he added. According to the Ministry of External Affairs statement, Misri's visit to Washington DC follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi 's visit to the US in February this year, when both nations launched the India-US COMPACT (Catalysing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce & Technology) for the 21st Century. MEA stated, "Foreign Secretary Shri Vikram Misri will be visiting Washington, D.C., USA from 27-29 May 2025 to meet senior officials of the US Administration. The visit is a follow up to Prime Minister's visit to the United States in February 2025, when both sides had launched the India-U.S. COMPACT (Catalysing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce & Technology) for the 21st Century." ANI Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Dy NSA Pavan Kapoor meet US Under Secretary of Defence Elbridge Colby


Time of India
5 days ago
- Climate
- Time of India
Nilgiris rain: Red alert issued for two more days
UDHAGAMANDALAM: The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for the Nilgiris for two more days till May 30 even as the district received heavy rain on Wednesday. Avalanche recorded 142 mm of rain in the 24 hours ending at 7 am on Wednesday, followed by Balacola at 135 mm, Upperbhavani at 129 mm, Gudalur at 53 mm, Devala at 59 mm, Emerald at 64 mm, Kundha at 96 mm, Naduvattam at 68 mm and Ooty at 48.9 mm. Kundha taluk suffered the most damage from tree falls and landslides. Traffic was blocked on the Ooty-Gudalur National Highway as soil was sliding gradually onto the road near Naduvattam. District collector Lakshmi Bhavya Tanneeru said two large boulders were sitting precariously balanced on top of the soil, supported by two trees. 'These boulders could roll down onto the road at any moment. Therefore, vehicles are prohibited from using the road until further notice. Only emergency vehicles like ambulances are allowed. Govt buses are allowed only during the daytime. The national highways department along with the forest department is currently working on a plan to address the situation.' Residential areas such as Nondimedu and Manjanakorai, which are part of the Ooty municipality, experienced landslides on Wednesday. In Manjanakorai, a mud house collapsed. Six trees were uprooted in Ooty and its surrounding areas. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Top Public Speaking Course for Children Planet Spark Book Now Undo A tree fell on an electric post on the Havelock Road, and another one fell near the Nilgiris SP office. Several places in the hill town experienced power outages due to tree falls. EB staff and fire and rescue services personnel were working round the clock to address the rain damage. In Sholurmattam in Kilkotagiri, strong winds caused the collapse of a zinc sheet roof of a govt school. No one was present since it was a school holiday. NDRF and SDRF personnel were visiting vulnerable and damaged areas to provide suggestions. The forest department announced that all tourist spots, except Kodanad viewpoint, under its jurisdiction would remain closed for visitors on Thursday as well. Constant rain made the hills quite cold. The maximum temperature recorded on Wednesday was 15 degrees Celsius.


Time of India
6 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Horoscope Tomorrow, May 28, 2025: Your zodiac insights await
1 2 Aries Those recovering from an illness will start to feel better. With financial issues resolved, a sense of stability returns. Job seekers may come across an irresistible opportunity! Family members will be supportive today. If planning a vacation, be sure to budget carefully. A real estate deal may prove to be a wise investment. Academic efforts are likely to bear fruit. Taurus Improvement is likely for those who've been unwell. Financial stability returns as past issues are settled. A job offer that seems too good to pass up might just come your way. The family will be supportive and helpful. Plan your vacation wisely to stay within budget. A real estate deal could turn out to be profitable. Academic pursuits will meet with success. Gemini Your current activities promise to keep you fit and energized. Your money management skills will shine. For those in the scientific field, great success is likely. You'll finally have quality time with your family. A countryside drive will be both refreshing and rejuvenating. Those looking to sell property are likely to get their asking price. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Transform Your Child's Confidence with Our Public Speaking Program Planet Spark Book Now Undo Cancer Delegating tasks may offer relief and make your work easier. Financial stability brings peace of mind. A new project at work may demand extra effort, so be prepared. A thoughtful, deliberate approach will help you overcome current challenges. Those traveling abroad will have a delightful experience. Purchasing an apartment or plot is a strong possibility. Leo Those leading sedentary lifestyles may begin regular workouts. A financial tip could lead to lucrative business opportunities. You'll find great satisfaction in your work. Expect a lively day on the home front! Travel to a new destination is likely. Academic achievements may put you ahead of the curve. Virgo You'll find mental peace and relief from stress thanks to your efforts. Strict self-discipline will help you stay on budget. Your professional contributions are likely to be recognized. Family support will be especially strong during any crisis. Long-distance travelers should exercise caution. Purchasing a plot or apartment could be on the cards. Libra You'll feel great on the health front. Consulting a financial advisor will broaden your understanding. Positive developments are expected for those involved in legal matters. You will play a pivotal role in your family. Business or leisure travel abroad is possible. Outstanding academic performance may open several new doors. Scorpio Adding exercise to your routine is advised. Accelerating a financial deal will work in your favor, as the stars are aligned. Networking will prove especially beneficial now, so rekindle your contacts. Your fair-mindedness will be valued in family matters. Those craving a holiday may opt for an exotic getaway. A real estate opportunity may soon become too good to resist. Sagittarius You might start a new fitness routine to get back in shape. Money could come from unexpected sources. Promising job opportunities may arise for those looking to switch careers. It's a good day to plan a family holiday. A trip with a close friend or relative may also be on the horizon. Builders and real estate professionals will find the day favorable. Academics can expect a breakthrough. Capricorn A new focus on health may lead you to start exercising. Financial concerns will begin to ease. Taking initiative at work will earn you appreciation. Your family will be particularly receptive and supportive. Expect a good deal on a significant household purchase. Students may excel in both academics and sports. Lingering worries will start to fade away. Aquarius You'll finally find relief from long-standing worries. Effective financial management will be essential. Seeking expert advice will help you make smart business choices. Your support could help a young family member achieve academic success. A well-deserved trip might be in store for those looking to break the routine. You may also see an increase in wealth or land ownership. Pisces Financial concerns won't stand in the way of realizing your dreams. Your efforts to regain physical fitness will pay off. Recognition is likely, as your performance has impressed your superiors. The arrival of guests will lift the mood at home. The real estate market looks promising with rewards for your hard work. You'll hold your own on the academic front. Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .


Time of India
6 days ago
- Time of India
2 dead, 1 injured as portion of coal mine collapses in SECL in Chhattisgarh
RAIPUR: Two persons were killed, and another sustained injuries after a portion of the boundary wall of a coal mine collapsed on them in wee hours on Tuesday at South Eastern Coalfields Limited's (SECL) Gevra open-cast coal mine in Chhattisgarh's Korba district. The three villagers had entered the mine site to steal coal when they got trapped under the debris of coal after a portion of the boundary wall of Dipka and Gevra mines suddenly collapsed. According to officials, Vishal Yadav (18) and Dhan Singh Kanwar (24) died after getting trapped under the debris of coal while Sahil Dhanwar sustained injuries and is presently under treatment. The bodies were retrieved and a probe was launched in the matter. The SECL team and police were informed after the incident took place and a rescue operation was launched at the site. According to SECL's public relations officer Sanish Chandra said that primarily, it appears that the youths entered the mine area without permission, without any safety measures, and they infiltrated our mine security checkpoints and reached the site. According to information received from the local police, three youths from Hardi Bazaar and Mundapara Bazaar allegedly entered the Gevra-Dipka mine boundary area late last night or early this morning without permission, with the intent of stealing leftover coal. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Transform Your Child's Confidence with Our Public Speaking Program Planet Spark Book Now Undo 'It is known that some coal deposits remain along the mine boundaries, where coal walls can be as high as 15–25 feet. It is suspected that during the act of coal theft, a layer of coal collapsed, causing the tragic incident,' said Chandra. Dipka and Hardi police have begun an investigation after sending the bodies for post-mortem. 'Trespassing into mine premises is prohibited. SECL management earnestly appeals to all to stay away from such risky and illegal activities and not to fall prey to any form of temptation,' said Chandra.