9 die due to diarrhoea; CM directs awarness campaign

Hyderabad, Aug 16 : In the wake of nine diarrhoea deaths in the state, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister K Rosaiah has directed the officials of Panchayat Raj and Rural Water Supply to take up a week-long campaign to bring awareness among the public about sanitation and to contain water-borne diseases in the State.The Chief Minister will hold video conferencing with district collectors with special focus on sanitation on August 18, a release from Chief Minister's office said here today.He was reviewing on issues pertaining to water-borne diseases and sanitation with Minister of Panchayat Raj Botsa Satyanarayana, Minister for Rural Water Supply P Viswarup and senior officials concerned.Noting that nine deaths were reported due to diarrhoea in 13 districts, the Chief Minister said in spite of making available required funds, sanitation conditions were not improving, especially in rural areas. ''Prevention is better than cure. The departments concerned should act more proactively in advance of every monsoon season to prevent recurrence of water-borne diseases and prevent water pollution by taking an intensive drive,'' the Chief Minister asserted. He wanted that the awareness campaign should be conducted not in a routine manner but be done in a focused manner.
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Rosaiah to look into teachers' demands

Hyderabad, Aug 16 : Andhra Pradeh Chief Minister K Rosaiah today assured to positively consider few genuine demands of the Teacher MLCs.After Rosaiah held a meeting on the demands of the Teacher MLCs with ministers and officials and the Teacher MLCs at the Secretariat, he asked the department to examine the possibility of extending the benefit of GoMs 330 to the Grade II Language Pandits who were appointed and acquired Grade I qualifications prior to 1982. The Chief Minister also agreed to positively consider regularisation of contract teachers in A P Residential Schools.Dr Rosaiah also agreed to examine granting two notional increments to apprentice teachers in Municipal Schools. He also agreed to look into other demands of the teacher MLCs positively. The Chief Minister said was always sympathetic to the genuine demands of the teachers but had to look into the financial implications of each demand since he would like to implement the assurances immediately as per his promise.Minister for Secondary Education, Manikya Vara Prasad, Minister for School Education, Ahmadullah, Adviser to Chief Minister, P K Agarwal, Principal Secretary, Finance, L V Subramaniam, Secretary, School Education, Sambasiva Rao, Teacher MLCs: Subba Reddy, Mohan Reddy, Sudhakar Reddy, Ram Reddy, Satyanarayana Raju, Srinivasulu Naidu, Chukka Ramaiah and Laxman Rao and other officials attended the meeting, a release from Chief Minister's office here said.
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Appointment of Auditors of Government Owned Companies

(PIB NEWS) Aug,16, The Government has said statutory auditors for Government Companies are appointed by the Comptroller & Auditor General of India (C&AG) in exercise of the powers conferred under section 619(2) of the Companies Act, 1956 as amended vide Companies (Amendment) Act, 2000. For this purpose, a panel of firms of Chartered Accountants is maintained by the C&AG by inviting applications ‘on line’ every year from the eligible firms of Chartered Accountants. Giving this information in written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha today Shri Salman Khurshid, Minister of Corporate Affairs, said that the eligibility criteria determined is displayed on the website of the C&AG of India i.e. www.cag.gov.in. The panel so formed is used for selection of statutory auditors of public sector undertakings for the ensuing financial year.Shri Khurshid further informed the House that selection of the statutory auditors for appointment is made by correlating the point score (calculated on the basis of the criteria for empanelment) earned by each firm of Chartered Accountants that applies for empanelment with the size of the audit assignment. The point score is based upon the experience of the firm, number of partners and their association with the firm, number of Chartered Accountant employees etc. for assessing that the antecedents of the firm are well established and the firm has capacity to handle the allotted audits. This system ensures that allotment of audit to Chartered Accountants’ firms is done objectively based on merit and competence.
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Railways to accept bank credit card as proof of identity for travelling on e-tickets

(PIB NEWS)Aug,16,  In an yet another passenger friendly move, the Ministry of Railways has decided to accept credit cards issued by banks with laminated photograph as proof of identity for traveling on e-tickets. The new provision has come into effect from 6th August, 2010.The bank credit card is in addition to the existing seven proofs of identity for undertaking journey on e-tickets namely; a) Voter Identity Card, b) Passport, c) PAN Card, d) Driving License, e) Photo Identity Card issued by Central/State Government. f) Student Identity Card with photograph issued by recognised School/College for their students and g) Nationalised Bank Passbook with photograph. There will be no concession including student concession admissible to the persons booking e-tickets except concession for senior citizens. Ministry of Railways has asked all Zonal Railways to issue necessary instruction to all concerned particularly ticket checking staff so as to educate them about this modified provision and to avoid inconvenience to the passengers.
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Pappu Yadav arrested by CBI

Aug,16, Following a Supreme Court order, former Rashtriya Janata Dal MP Rajesh Ranjan alias Pappu Yadav was arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) from a hospital in Haryana’s Gurgaon district, officials said Monday.“He was admitted in Artemis Hospital in Gurgaon from Saturday. The CBI team reached the hospital on Monday morning and after taking clearance from hospital (authorities) he was brought out of the hospital at around 3 p.m.,” a CBI source said.“I wanted to surrender and informed the DIG (deputy inspector general of police), Bihar, about my presence in hospital. My operation was due on Monday,” Pappu Yadav told reporters while coming out from hospital.“I will take court permission for the operation now,” Yadav added.Yadav’s father is admitted in Sir Ganga Ram hospital in Delhi. He is reported to be critical.Officials said Yadav will be produced before a Gurgaon court.CBI officials said the court issued a non-bailable warrant against him two weeks ago.
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Court reserves verdict on Raju's bail plea

Hyderabad,Aug 16:Andhra Pradesh High Court Monday reserved its order on the bail petition of B. Ramalinga Raju, the prime accused in the multi-crore Satyam fraud case.Justice Raja Elango reserved the order after hearing the arguments from Raju's counsel and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Opposing the bail plea, Additional Solicitor General H.P. Rawal argued that if granted bail the accused could destroy evidence, especially with regard to the money diverted and sent abroad. He told the court that long period of incarceration, delay in trial and Raju's ailment could not be the grounds for granting the bail. Terming the bail plea as delaying tactics, the prosecution informed the court that the trial could be completed in six months. Stating that the accused was involved in economic terrorism and claiming that the crime caused a loss of Rs.24,000 crore to investors, Rawal contended that Raju could not claim parity with other accused granted bail by the high court and the Supreme Court. "In this case there is higher degree of seriousness (of charges)," said Rawal and also informed the court that the prosecution would challenge even the bail granted to other accused. Submitting a list of visitors who called on Raju undergoing treatment for Hepatitis C at government-run Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS) here for nine months, the prosecution disputed the claim that he was seriously ill and hence was unable to appear before the trial court. Stating that as a citizen he was unable to understand the case, the judge wondered why there was no hue and cry from investors if the inflating profits of the company had caused them huge losses. Raju's senior counsel M. Natrajan said the trial might take six years and not six months as claimed by the prosecution. He said sending letters of rogatory to six countries (where the Satyam money was allegedly diverted) seeking judicial assistance alone would take two years. He told the court that Hepatitis C was affecting Raju's breathing, liver and heart. "He may suffer internal bleeding and a heart attack," he said. "But the offence committed by you has spread virus to people," remarked the judge. The former chairman of Satyam Computer Services Limited remains the only accused in judicial custody as courts have granted bail to the other accused in the case. The court on July 20 had granted bail to five accused including Ramalinga Raju's brother and former managing director of Satyam, B. Rama Raju and former chief financial officer Vadlamani Srinivas. The courts had earlier granted bail to three accused while Ramalinga Raju's another brother B. Surayanarayana Raju had obtained anticipatory bail last year. Ramalinga Raju had shocked the corporate India in January last year by admitting Rs.7,800 crore accounting fraud in the IT major. The CBI, however, told the court in November last year that the scam is of over Rs.14,000 crore. All the accused are facing charges of criminal conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, cheating, forgery and falsification of accounts.
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Andhra Pradesh, GVK complete 5 yrs of 108 ERS

Hyderabad (Andhra Pradesh), Aug 15 : Government of Andhra Pradesh and GVK EMRI, a leading Emergency Management Services in India , on Sundaycelebrated 5 years of 108 Emergency Response Services (ERS) to the people.Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister K Rosaiah was the Chief Guest at the ceremony . Government of Andhra Pradesh in Public Private Partnership with GVK EMRI launched the 108 Emergency Response Service on August 15, 2005. Tremendous public response and ongoing support from the Government has helped 108 ERS save 73, 276 lives in Andhra Pradesh, said an official statement.Since the launch in Andhra Pradesh in August 2005, the 108 Emergency response service with the support of the Government has responded to 44,33,903 emergencies. The composition being 25pc pregnancy related, 22pc injuries, 11pc acute abdomen, 5pc each of cardiac, respiratory and suicidal attempts. 80pc of the total emergencies attended are rural emergencies. A total of 752 ambulances span the entire the state covering 23 districts. The Service has helped improve access to healthcare, increased the percentage institutional delivery, reduced maternal mortality rates and has improved the overall healthcare standards.Having launched the service in Andhra Pradesh, GVK EMRI in Public Private Partnership with State Government have launched the 108 Emergency Response Service to 8 states - Gujarat, Uttarakhand, Goa,Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Assam, Meghalaya and Madhya Pradesh.
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Rosaiah vows to continue YSR's schemes

Hyderabad,Aug 15: Amid tight security, Andhra Pradesh celebrated the 64th Independence Day with Chief Minister K. Rosaiah declaring that he would continue the welfare schemes launched by his predecessor Y.S.Rajasekhara Reddy.Enthusiasm and patriotic fervour marked the celebrations across the state. Rosaiah led the celebrations by unfurling the national flag at the main official function at the Parade Grounds in Secunderabad. Hoisting the tricolour for the first time after taking over as the chief minister, Rosaiah vowed to continue the welfare schemes launched and implemented by his predecessor. The veteran leader, who assumed office Sep 3 last year following the death of Rajasekhara Reddy in a helicopter crash, announced a four-pronged strategy to plug leakages in welfare schemes like rice at Rs.2 a kg, community health insurance, free electricity to farmers, pensions for old aged and handicapped, scholarships and fee reimbursement. Rosaiah, who took the salute and reviewed the colourful parade by contingents of police forces, delivered his speech while sitting on a chair as he has not been keeping good health for last few days. Paying tributes to Rajasekhara Reddy, Rosaiah recalled that his death 17 days after he hoisted the national flag Aug 15 dealt a huge blow to the state. The state also faced crisis after crisis following his death. He, however, claimed that state's revenues had now started improving. Stating that the government would continue to give top priority to agriculture, Rosaiah hoped a bumper crop this season thank to good rains. "The state can develop and prosper only if there is peace and people extend their full cooperation," he said in an obvious reference to the movement for separate statehood to Telangana. Police had made massive security arrangements at the Parade Grounds in view of terror threats. Like last year, a Telugu television channel received an e-mail in the name of an unknown terror group threatening attacks on Independence Day. It also claimed that Rosaiah was its target. At Gandhi Bhavan, the headquarters of ruling Congress party, president of party's state unit D. Srinivas unfurled the tricolour. Assembly speaker N.Kirankumar Reddy unfurled the tricolour in the assembly premises. Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president and former chief minister N.Chandrababu hoisted the national flag at NTR Trust Bhavan, the party headquarters. Celebrations were also held at the offices of Praja Rajyam Party, Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) and Lok Satta parties.
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President Obama Defends Freedom of Religion in America

Washington,USA,Aug,15,(Deccan Samachar Service DSS) Friday evening, at an iftar hosted at the White House, President Obama issued a clear statement that the rights of Muslims to practice their religion in America must be protected. President Obama spoke for the first time on the controversy surrounding the construction of "Cordoba House," a proposed mosque and Islamic Center in New York City, New York. Some are calling this one of the most courageous acts taken by a president lately. Civil rights lawyer and author Glenn Greenwald called this "one of the most impressive and commendable things Obama has done since being inaugurated."More than 100 Muslim leaders from around the world joined President Obama at Friday's White House iftar, including ISNA President Dr. Ingrid Mattson and ISNA Vice President Imam Mohamed Magid. Muslim diplomats from around the world, political, religious, and community leaders were also in attendance at the dinner."Let me be clear: as a citizen, and as president, I believe that Muslims have the same right to practice their religion as everyone else in this country," said the President, adding, "That includes the right to build a place of worship and a community center on private property in lower Manhattan, in accordance with local laws and ordinances. This is America, and our commitment to religious freedom must be unshakable."Many conservatives and family members of those who lost loved ones in the tragic 9-11 attacks have issued concerns about the building of the mosque so close to the site of the tragedy. Speaking in direct response to their concerns last night, President Obama said America must never forget the tragedy of 9-11 and we must honor those who died working and providing relief that day, Muslims included, but that we must not confuse terrorists with the religion itself. "Let us always remember who we are fighting against, and what we are fighting for. Our enemies respect no freedom of religion. Al Qaeda's cause is not Islam - it is a gross distortion of Islam. These are not religious leaders - these are terrorists," said the President. The President spoke highly of the diversity that is the United States, stating, "Our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus - and non-believers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth...today our nation is strengthened by millions of Muslim Americans." He also spoke to the long history of Presidential support for iftars and the diversity within the Muslim faith, "Tonight, we are reminded that Ramadan is a celebration of a faith known for great diversity. And Ramadan is a reminder that Islam has always been part of America. The first Muslim ambassador to the United States, from Tunisia, was hosted by President Jefferson, who arranged a sunset dinner for his guest because it was Ramadan-making it the first known iftar at the White House, more than 200 years ago."ISNA President Dr. Ingrid Mattson states, "ISNA thanks the President for his strong and articulate support of the Muslim community and our rights here tonight. It was made clear that the right to religious freedom for all, including Muslim Americans, is supported by our President"Earlier last week, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg also issued his strong statement of support for the Cordoba House and protection of religious freedom for Muslims and all Americans. "ISNA is proud of the positive leadership shown by President Obama and Mayor Michael Bloomberg. There is more work to be done to protect the civil rights of Muslim Americans, and ISNA hopes elected officials across the country will join the President and Mayor to bravely protect those rights as well," said Dr. Mattson.To view video of the entire speech of President Obama at the White House Iftar, please click here.    (Photo Courtesy of CNN)
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Prime Minister’s Independence Day Address

New Delhi,15th Aug,(PIB NEWS)Following is the text of the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh’s address from the ramparts of Red Fort on the occasion of Independence Day:"Dear citizensI greet you on the 63rd anniversary of our independence. When Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru unfurled the Tricolour on this historic Red Fort, on 15th August, 1947, he called himself the first servant of India. I address you today in the same spirit of service.A few days back, many precious lives were lost in Laddakh due to a cloud burst. I convey my heart felt condolences to the family members and other near and dear ones of those who have perished. In this hour of grief, the whole country stands with the people of Laddakh. It is my assurance that the Central Government will do everything possible for rehabilitation of the affected people.When I addressed you last year on Independence Day, our country was facing a number of difficulties. There was a drought like situation in many parts of the country. We were also affected by the global economic slow down. I am happy to say that we have acquitted ourselves well in these difficult circumstances. Despite many problems, the rate of our economic growth has been better than most other countries in the world. This shows the strength of our economy.This strength has been evident not only in the last one year but also in our economic progress in the last many years. Today, India stands among the fastest growing economies of the world. As the world's largest democracy, we have become an example for many other countries to emulate. Our citizens have the right to make their voice heard. Our country is viewed with respect all over the world. Our views command attention in international fora.All of you have contributed to India's success. The hard work of our workers, our artisans, our farmers has brought our country to where it stands today. I specially salute our soldiers whose bravery ensures the safety of our borders. I pay tribute to all those martyrs who have sacrificed their lives for our country.We are building a new India in which every citizen would have a stake, an India which would be prosperous and in which all citizens would be able to live a life of honour and dignity in an environment of peace and goodwill. An India in which all problems could be solved through democratic means. An India in which the basic rights of every citizen would be protected. In the last few years, we have taken many significant steps in this direction. Every person living in rural areas now has the assurance of 100 days of employment through the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act. The Right to Information Act is helping our citizens to become more aware. This year our Government has enacted the Right to Education which will help every Indian to share in the benefits of the country's economic progress and also to contribute to it. To ensure equal partnership of women in our progress, we have taken initiative for reservation for women in Parliament and in State legislatures. Apart from this, reservation for women has been increased to 50 per cent in local bodies. Despite our many strengths, we face some serious challenges. We should resolve today that we will meet these challenges as one people. Our society often gets divided in the name of religion, State, caste or language. We should resolve that we will not allow divisions in our society under any circumstance. Tolerance and generosity have been a part of our traditions. We should strengthen these traditions. As we progress economically our society should also become more sensitive. We should be modern and progressive in our outlook.Our Government has laid special emphasis on the welfare of our farmers and on increasing agricultural production. After we came to power in 2004, we realized that the state of Indian agriculture in the preceding 7-8 years was not satisfactory. Our Government increased public investment in agriculture. We started new schemes for increasing production. We encouraged agricultural planning at the district level. I am happy that the growth rate of our agriculture has increased substantially in the last few years. But we are still far from achieving our goal. We need to work harder so that we can increase the agricultural growth rate to 4 per cent per annum.Our Government wants a food safety net in which no citizen of ours would go hungry. This requires enhanced agricultural production which is possible only by increasing productivity. Our country has not witnessed any big technological breakthrough in agriculture after the Green Revolution. We need technology which would address the needs of dry land agriculture. In addition, our agriculture should also be able to deal with new challenges like climate change, falling levels of ground water and deteriorating quality of soil. In the history of Indian agriculture, Norman Borlaug commands a special place. About 40 to 50 years back he developed new and more productive seeds of wheat. Under the leadership of Smt. Indira Gandhiji, India achieved the Green Revolution by adopting these seeds. I am happy to announce that the Borlaug Institute of South Asia is being established in India. This institute would facilitate availability of new and improved seeds and new technology to the farmers of India and other countries of South Asia.We have always taken care to provide remunerative prices to farmers so that they are encouraged to increase production. Support prices have been increased every year in the last six years. The support price for wheat was enhanced to Rs.1,100 per quintal last year from Rs.630 per quintal in 2003-04. In paddy, this increase was from Rs.550 per quintal to Rs.1,000 per quintal. But one effect of providing higher prices to farmers is that food prices in the open market also increase.I know that in the last few months high inflation has caused you difficulties. It is the poor who are the worst affected by rising prices, especially when the prices of commodities of every day use like foodgrains, pulses, vegetables increase. It is for this reason that we have endeavored to minimize the burden of increased prices on the poor. Today, I do not want to go into the detailed reasons for high inflation. But, I would certainly like to say that we are making every possible effort to tackle this problem. I am also confident that we will succeed in these efforts.It is obvious that any person or institution cannot spend more than his income over a long period of time, even if it is the Government. It is our responsibility that we manage our economy with prudence so that our development is not affected adversely in the future because of high debt. We import about 80 per cent of our requirement of petroleum products. After 2004, we have increased the prices of petroleum products much less compared to the increase in the price of crude oil in the international market. The subsidy on petroleum products has been increasing every year. It had become necessary therefore to increase the prices of petroleum products. If this had not been done, it would not have been possible for our budget to bear the burden of subsidy and our programmes for education, health and employment of the poor would have been adversely affected. In the 63 years after independence, India has covered a long distance on the path of development. But our destination is still far away. A large part of our population still suffers from persistent poverty, hunger and disease. When our Government came to power in 2004, we resolved to build a new India under a progressive social agenda. We wanted the fruits of development to reach the common man. We initiated programmes especially targeted to the welfare of the socially and economically backward sections of our society. We still stand committed to the welfare of the poor, the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, minorities, women and other backward sections of our society. But today we do not need many new programmes to achieve our goals. However, we do need to implement the schemes we have already started more effectively, minimizing the chances of corruption and misuse of public money. We want to achieve this in partnership with the State Governments, Panchayat Raj Institutions and civil society groups.Secularism is one of the pillars of our democracy. It has been the tradition of our country and society to treat all religions with equal respect. For centuries India has welcomed new religions and all have flourished here. Secularism is also ourconstitutional obligation. Our Government is committed to maintain communal peace and harmony. We also consider it our duty to protect the minorities and provide for their special needs. This is why we have started many new programmes in the last four years for the welfare of our brothers and sisters belonging to the minority communities. These include scholarships for minority students and special programmes for the development of districts which have a high concentration of minorities. These schemes have shown good results. We will vigorously take this work forward.We have been giving special attention to education and health in the last six years. Improvement in these two areas is an important component of our strategy for inclusive growth. It is also necessary for higher economic growth in the years to come. After independence, these two areas could not get the importance they deserved. We tried to change this state of affairs in the 11th Plan. Today, almost every child in our country has access to primary education. Now, we need to pay more attention to secondary and higher education. We also need to improve the quality of education at all levels. It is our endeavour that every child, irrespective of whether he is rich or poor and which section of the society he belongs to, should be given an education that enables him to realize his potential and makes him a responsible citizen of our country. We will continue to implement the new schemes that we have started in the last six years in the areas of education and health with sincerity and hard work and in partnership with the State Governments. We will soon bring a Bill to Parliament for constitution of two separate councils in higher education and health respectively so that reforms in these two areas can be accelerated.Nutritious food and good health services are necessary but not enough for ensuring good health of our citizens. We also need cleanliness and good sanitation in our villages, towns and cities. There are many diseases which would be difficult to prevent otherwise. The truth is that our country lags behind in this area. I consider it a primary responsibility of all our citizens to maintain cleanliness and hygiene around them. I would like our children to be taught the importance of cleanliness and hygiene in schools from the very beginning under a campaign for a Clean India. I appeal to the State Governments, Panchayat Raj Institutions, civil society groups and common citizens to make this campaign successful.Mahatma Gandhi had said that our earth has enough for everyone's need but not for everyone's greed. Imprudent use of the earth's natural resources has resulted in the problem of climate change. We need to use our natural resources with care and prudence. It is our responsibility towards the coming generations to protect and preserve our forests, rivers and mountains. Our government will endeavour to take care of environmental concerns in our projects for economic development.There is a large deficit in our physical infrastructure which affects our economic development adversely. There is a shortfall in the supply of electricity to industries. Our roads, ports and airports are not of world standards. We have been trying to increase electricity production and improve our roads, ports and airports. The resources required to create good physical infrastructure are difficult for the Government alone to mobilize. Therefore, we have endeavoured to involve the private sector in our efforts. The steps that we have taken after 2004 to improve our physical infrastructure have started bearing fruit now. About one and half a months back, I dedicated a new terminal of the Delhi airport to the nation. This is an excellent terminal which has been completed in record time. We will continue to make such efforts to improve our physical infrastructure.There has been much discussion recently on the issue of internal security. If law and order in any part of India deteriorates or peace and harmony gets disturbed, the common man is adversely affected. Therefore, it is one of the primary responsibilities of any government to maintain law and order so that the citizens can live and earn their livelihood in an atmosphere of peace and harmony. Naxalism is a serious challenge to our internal security. I pay tribute to the men and officers of our security forces who have became martyrs in the attacks by naxalites in the last few months. I have stated this before and I say it again - our Government will fully discharge its responsibility to protect each and every citizen of our country. We will deal firmly with those who resort to violence. We will provide all possible help to State Governments to maintain the rule of law in areas affected by naxalism. I once again appeal to naxalites to abjure violence, come for talks with the Government and join hands with us to accelerate social and economic development. A few days back I took a meeting with the Chief Ministers of States affected by naxalism. We will fully implement the consensus that emerged in that meeting. I would like to repeat here a point that I made in that meeting. It is imperative that Centre and States work together to meet the challenge of naxalism. It would be very difficult for any State to tackle this problem without cooperation from the Centre and coordination between States. We all need to rise above our personal and political interests to meet this challenge.
As I have stated earlier, most naxalite affected areas lag behind in development. Many such areas also have a large concentration of our adivasi brothers and sisters. We want to end the neglect of these areas. I have asked the Planning Commission to formulate a comprehensive scheme towards this end, which we would implement fully. It is also our endeavour that our adivasi brothers and sisters join the mainstream of development. They have been dependent on forest produce for centuries and this dependence should not end without the creation of new sources of livelihood. Apart from adequate compensation for land which is acquired from them, we should also ensure that our adivasi brothers and sisters have a stake in the developmental project being undertaken.I would like to state one more thing in this context. It is very necessary to make the administrative machinery more sensitive in areas affected by naxalism. The government officials who work there should not only be sincere but should also be alive to the special needs of our adivasi brothers and sisters. It is my hope that the State Governments will pay adequate attention to these requirements. We have a special responsibility towards the States of the North East. We are trying to live up to that responsibility. The North Eastern part of our country has been witness to some unpleasant incidents in the recent months. I would like to convey to all political parties and groups of the North East that disputes in the name of State or tribe can only harm all of us. Discussion and dialogue are the only options to resolve complex issues. As far as the Central Government is concerned, we are ready to take forward every process of talks which could lead to progress in resolution of problems. In Jammu and Kashmir, we are ready to talk to every person or group which abjures violence. Kashmir is an integral part of India. Within this framework, we are ready to move forward in any talks which would increase the partnership of the common man in governance and also enhance their welfare. Recently, some young men have lost their lives in violence in Jammu and Kashmir. We deeply regret this. The years of violence should now end. Such violence would not benefit anyone. I believe that India's democracy has the generosity and flexibility to be able to address the concerns of any area or group in the country. I recently participated in a meeting with political parties from Jammu and Kashmir. We will endeavour to take this process forward. I would like to convey to our countrymen, especially our citizens in Jammu and Kashmir and in the North East, that they should adopt democratic means to join hands with us for their and country's welfare.We want prosperity, peace and harmony in our neighbouring countries. Whatever differences we have with our neighbouring countries, we want to resolve them through discussions. As far as Pakistan is concerned, we expect from them that they would not let their territory be used for acts of terrorism against India. We have been emphasizing this in all our discussions with the Pakistan Government. If this is not done, we cannot progress far in our dialogue with Pakistan. I would also like to say something which is related to our glorious cultural traditions. The use of harsh and unpleasant words in our political discourse has increased in recent days. This is against our traditions of generosity, humility and tolerance. Criticism has a place of its own in a democracy and in a progressive society. However, criticism should not be undignified. We should have the capacity to reconcile opposite points of view on important issues through debate and discussion. I would request all political parties to consider this issue. The Commonwealth Games will start in Delhi after about one and a half months. This will be a proud moment for the whole country and especially for Delhi. I am convinced that all our countrymen will treat the Games as a national festival and will leave no stone unturned to make them a success. The successful organization of Commonwealth Games would be another signal to the world that India is rapidly marching ahead with confidence.Our future is bright. The day when our dreams will come true is not far off. Let us all resolve on this anniversary of our independence that we will keep the flag of our nation flying high. Let us march ahead together on the path of progress and prosperity.Dear children, please say Jai Hind with me.'JAI HIND''JAI HIND'JAI HIND'”
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Maoists must abandon path of violence: President

Aug,15, President Pratibha Patil Saturday appealed to Maoists and other extremists to abandon their path of violence and come for dialogue with the government.“The proponents of extreme ideologies and the followers of Left wing extremism must abandon their path of violence. I call on them to join national efforts for growth and development,” Patil said on the eve of India’s Independence Day.“I hope that everybody, including the civil society, will come forward and move them in this direction. Protracted developmental efforts will be needed in these areas,” she said.There are at least 36 districts in India that are Maoists-infested in states like Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Orissa and West Bengal, Patil said nation building demands the ability to work diligently and patiently and requires the purpose and ability to focus on issues which unite.“It requires a spirit of conciliation. This is possible when dialogue is chosen as the channel for communication,” she added.The president also called for zero tolerance towards corruption.“Zero tolerance towards corruption and working with the highest standards of public service will definitely result in efficient governance systems and will have a multiplier effect on development and growth,” she said.The country’s first woman president also expressed her anxiety about the “growing insensitivity” shown to each other as increasing emphasis is given to materialism.“Social consciousness is on the decline. Some social evils persist. This must change. Today is the best opportunity when ground-breaking achievements alongwith a moral and ethical renaissance can take place,” she added.
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Let us join hands to make our country great: JP

Hyderabad, Aug 14 : Lok Satta Party President Jayaprakash Narayan today called upon all right thinking people to join hands transcending their differences to root out the seven scourges plaguing the country, make India great and prosperous, and realise the freedom fighters' dreams.In a message on the eve of Independence Day, he said despite many flaws, Indians could legitimately be proud of preserving the unity and integrity of the country, maintaining freedom and democracy and strengthening federalism in a diverse and complex country.''What is more heartening is that for the first time in nearly three centuries, India has been back on the road to economic prosperity for the last two decades.''If we do the things mandated by the Constitution and for which freedom fighters staked their all, we have the potential to make up for all the lost opportunities and make India a super power in the next two decades in which everybody enjoys equity and justice.'' Dr Narayan said the seven scourges hobbling India's potential for growth and greatness were growing inequalities and abject poverty; persistent tendency to divide people on grounds of caste and religion, language, and region; ever-widening rural-urban divide, resulting in de-population of villages, choking of towns and cities; monumental corruption; overcentralisation of power and enfeeblement of people; absence of rule of law; and alcoholism and drug abuse.
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High alert in Andhra Pradesh after terror mail

Hyderabad, Aug 14 : A high alert has been sounded at Hyderabad and across Andhra Pradesh after an unknown terrorist group, 'Alkahida Zihaad', threatened to target Chief Minister K Rosaiah on the Independence Day tomorrow.The e-mail to a Telugu television channel late on August 12 warned that ''their agents'' had entered Hyderabad, Vikarabad, Karimnagar, Khammam, Anantapur, Kadapa and Visakhapatnam ''on the mission''.''We are not joking,'' the mail claimed, adding that the Chief Minister was also their target. They further admitted that they had failed to bomb Imax theatre at Hyderabad.Security was upgraded at all government buildings, including the State Secretariat and frisking was underway at many checkpoints.The traffic on the Begumpet-Secunderabad Flyovers has been stopped as the flyover passes just behind the rostrum from where the Chief Minister will review the Independence Day Parade at Secunderabad Parade Grounds tomorrow.Mr Rosaiah will unfurl the national tricolour for the first time as the Chief Minister.
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254 MW to Andhra Pradesh from new Tamilnadu power plant: CM

Hyderabad, Aug 14 : Andhra Pradesh has been allotted 254 MW of power from the 1,000 MW power plant being set up at Tuticorin by the Joint Venture Neyveli Lignite Corporation (NLC) and the Tamil Nadu Power Limited.The tariff at which the power will be supplied to Andhra Pradesh will be determined by the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission.The Centre took this decision following persistent efforts by Chief Minister K Rosaiah, taking up the issue with Prime Minister Manmohan singh and Union Minister for Energy, Sushilkumar Shinde. The Chief Minister said the allotment came at a crucial time when Andhra Pradesh required additional power allocation as the demand exceeded supply in agricultural, industrial and domestic sectors.
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GHMC Commissioner launches APREDA's Green Channel initiative

Hyderabad, Aug 14 : Mr Sameer Sharma, Commissioner GHMC, today launched AP Real Estate Developer's Association's (APREDA) 'Green Channel Initiative at ESI Hospital here by flagging off the process of shifting 30 trees from ESI to one of their member's site location, 'Green Grace'.As a part of the initiative, APREDA launched its 'Adopt A Tree Save A tree' campaign by starting the process of translocation of trees. The area comprising the ESI quarters was being cleared off its almost 200 trees to accomodate an upcoming medical college. There are five to eighty years old trees at of different varieties, including Bauhinia, Tabebuia, Peltophorum, Chinabadam, Peepal, Jackfruit, Amla and Jamun, at ESI. Anybody wishing this cause can plant such old trees in their premises. Translocation of a tree involves safe uprooting of a grown up tree along with its roots dug up all around like a ball of earth and then planted at an alternate location. This systematic process takes about a month's time and needs to be carried out under technical supervision.Trees are renewable source of energy. The value of a tree that lives for 50 years generates Rs 5.3 lakh worth of oxygen, recycles Rs 6.4 lakh worth of fertility and soil erosion control, and creates Rs 10.3 lakh worth of air pollution control and Rs 5.3 lakh worth of shelter for birds and animals. Besides it provides flowers, fruits and lumber. So, when ever one tree falls or is felled the nature losses something worth more than Rs 32 lakh, a release from GHMC said.
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Delhi on high alert for I-Day as terror threats persist

Aug,14, The capital turned into a security fortress on the eve of India’s 64th Independence Day, with market places, railway stations and airports placed under heavy surveillance Saturday. Thousands of policemen and troopers were deployed at the Red Fort – the main celebrations venue – and other places in the light of terror threats.Security  has been intensified at all sensitive locations. “We have also installed barricades at several points where we are allowing vehicles only after checking them completely,” said a Delhi Police official. People are being frisked at busy market places, Metro stations and railway stations in the capital. “We are keeping a tight vigil in and around the Red Fort, Jama Masjid and Chandni Chowk,” added the official. All these are located in Delhi’s old quarters.Police in Bangalore claim to have unearthed a terror plot by Pakistan’s intelligence agency to carry out terror attacks in India with the help of Maoists. The US too has issued fresh warnings of terror strikes.“We have elaborate arrangements in place to deal with any kind of situation. We have already tightened vigil in the capital, especially around places where the Independence Day programme is scheduled to take place. The whole force is on high alert,” a police spokesman said.Delhi traffic police are in the process of sealing the city borders from midnight to about 9 a.m. Aug 15. While commercial vehicles will be banned from entering Delhi, all private passenger vehicles will be allowed only after thorough checking.Police are also keeping a tight vigil on footage from CCTV cameras installed in and around the Red Fort, from where Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will deliver an address to the nation.The three defence services chiefs and top government functionaries also attend the function at the Red Fort, as do members of the diplomatic corps and political VVIPs.More than 35 CCTV cameras have been placed at various points, including in crowded market places, and three helicopters have been brought in for air surveillance around Red Fort. Anti-aircraft guns have been positioned at strategic places.Delhi Metro has stepped up the security arrangements and issued directions that no parking facilities will be available at the Delhi Metro stations from 2 p.m. Saturday Aug 14 till 2 p.m. Aug 15.The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), which guards the Metro stations, has deployed 400 additional personnel at various stations to strengthen security arrangements, a senior CISF officer said.No mobile phones, food packets and water bottles will be allowed at the Red Fort venue. Around 100 police control room vans will be deployed along the route taken by Manmohan Singh from the heart of New Delhi to the Red Fort.Around 3,000 security personnel has been deployed at the Red Fort apart from 170 companies of police personnel and paramilitary forces. According to police, a ground-to-air security apparatus has also been put in place for the celebrations besides making the mammoth Red Fort area a no-fly zone.An air defence mechanism is also in place around the venue to thwart any terror attack.
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SW monsoon active over Telangana

Hyderabad, Aug 14 : Southwest monsoon has been active over Telangana, with rain occurring at many places over Telangana and at a few places over Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema.Manthani (Karimnagar district) recorded a heavy rainfall of 11 cm, Met department said today.The other chief amounts of rainfall recorded in cm were Puttur and Srikalahasti (both Chittoor district), Rajampet (Cuddapah district), Sultanabad (Karimnagar district), Venkatagiri Town (Nellore district) and Venkatapuram (Khammam district) six each, Ramagundam, Khanapur (Adilabad district) and Parvathipuram (Vizianagaram district) five each, Holagunda (Kurnool district), Komarada (Vizianagaram district), Mancherial (Adilabad district) and Ramayampet (Medak district) four each, Kurnool, Bodhan (Nizamabad district), Eturnagaram (Warangal district), Jurala Project (Mahabubnagar district), Kamalapuram (Cuddapah district), Pakala (Chittoor district), Pargi and Vikarabad (both Rangareddy district) and Sangareddy (Medak district) three each, Tirupati, Amalapuram (East Godavari district), Atmakur and Mantralayam (both Kurnool district), Bhimavaram (West Godavari district), Gudur, Rapur, Sullurpet and Tada (all Nellore district), Huzurabad and Karimnagar (both Karimnagar district), Jangaon, Mulugu, Narsampet and Parkal (all Warangal district) and Rayachoty (Cuddapah district) two each.Moderate to rather heavy rain/thundershowers would occur at many places over Telangana and in the districts of Srikakulam, Vizianagaram and Visakhapatnam of Coastal Andhra Pradesh. Light to moderate rain/thundershowers would occur at a few places over Rayalaseema and in the districts of Coastal Andhra Pradesh.Isolated heavy rain may occur over Telangana during next 48 hours. Sky condition would be generally cloudy. One or two spells of rain/thundershowers may occur in parts of city. Maximum and Minimum temperatures would be around 32 and 24 degrees Celsius respectively.
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Two injured in freak firing incident in Andhra

Hyderabad, Aug 14 : Two people were injured Saturday when the gun of a legislator's bodyguard accidentally went off in Andhra Pradesh's Prakasam district, police said.The freak accident took place in Samuel George College in Markapuram area of Prakasam district. The gunman of legislator A. Suresh of the ruling Congress party was reportedly cleaning his gun when it suddenly went off. A car driver and canteen manager were injured in the accident and were admitted to a hospital.
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President Obama Offers Ramadan Greetings

USA,(Deccan Samachar Service DSS)Aug,13,    In recognition of the first day of Ramadan, President Obama issued a statement wishing Muslims in America and around the world a Happy Ramadan. In his letter, the President spoke to what he feels Ramadan represents in America."Ramadan is a celebration of a faith known for great diversity and racial equality.And here in the United States, Ramadan is a reminder that Islam has always been part of America and that American Muslims have made extraordinary contributions to our country," said the President."ISNA thanks the Administration for continuing to engage with the Muslim community and share the positive contributions of Muslims with the rest of the America," said ISNA President Dr. Ingrid Mattson." ISNA Vice President Imam Mohammed Majid will join Dr.Mattson today, Friday August 13, for an iftar hosted by President Obama and his family at the White House. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton also issued a statement of Ramadan greetings and will host an iftar at the State Department for Muslim leaders and community members from across the nation.To read the full statement written by President Obama or Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, please visit the White House and Department of State websites.
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Ramadan Greetings From ISNA President

USA,(Deccan Samachar Service DSS)Aug,13,    Assalamu 'alaykum wa rahmatullah wa barakatahu,

Ramadan greetings dear brothers and sisters! Baihaqi reported on the authority of Salman Al-Farsi that the Prophet (pbuh) delivered a sermon on the last day of the month of Sha'ban. In it he said,"O People! The month of Allah (Ramadan) has come with its mercies, blessings and forgiveness. Allah has decreed this month the best of all months. The days of this month are the best among the days and the nights are the best among the nights and the hours during Ramadan are the best among the hours. This is a month in which you have been invited by Him (to fast and pray). Allah has honored you in it. In every breath you take is a reward of Allah, your sleep is worship, your good deeds are accepted and your invocations are answered."I pray that in this month, we remember the blessings of Allah (swt) and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). I pray He makes this time easy for you and accepts your prayers. Let us enter each day with pure intentions and go to sleep each night with Allah in mind.There are so many around the world that can benefit from our good deeds, our patience, and our kindness. Let us use this month as an opportunity to multiply our blessings from Allah (swt) through charity, prayer, and purification. Let us rid ourselves of resentment and ask forgiveness for any wrong doings. Let us reach out to our community and celebrate its diversity. Let us share in our wealth with those who have less than us, so that we may strengthen the lives of our brothers and sisters and receive the merciful and multiplied blessings of Allah (swt) in Ramadan. Let us increase our prayers and thanks to Allah The Almighty, The Forgiving, The Merciful.I would like to thank each of you for your support to your community and to ISNA this year. It is only by the will of Allah (swt) that ISNA has been able to serve our community for the past 47 years, and inshaAllah, we will continue to serve you for many more.It is a blessing to serve you, and I pray that all in our community enjoy the mercy and blessings of Allah (swt) during this month of fasting and purification. In every breath we take and every good deed we perform, remember Allah (swt) and His blessings.Peace and Blessings, Dr.Ingrid Mattson
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30 more cases of swine flu in Delhi

Aug,13, Swine flu may be slowly making a comeback in the capital with 30 new confirmed cases reported Thursday.The total number of patients infected by the Influenza A (H1N1) virus in Delhi this year is now 254, an official said.“Thirtyone people tested positive for swine flu but there have been no deaths today (Thursday),” Debashish Bhattacharya, nodal officer for swine flu, said.Delhi has reported 14 deaths due to the virus this year.According to the health ministry, 1,833 swine flu deaths have occurred in India till Aug 9 – since its outbreak in May last year.
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Ayodhya issue cannot be resolved by the courts: Singhal

Vijaywada, Aug 13 : VHP International President Ashok Singhal has said the persistent issue of Ayodhya cannot be resolved by the courts and elders of the Hindu and Muslim communities should sit together to resolve the problems.He made it clear the Hindu organisations would approach the apex court against the judgement of the Allahabad High Court in the Ayodhya title suit, expected to be delivered later this year year, if the verdict is not in favour of them.Vishwa Hindu Parishad International Secretary General Praveen Togadiya appealed to Hindus to come forward with determination to check the massive conversions of Hindus into Christianity.After inaugurating a five-floor building complex of the VHP, which is the biggest office in South India, Togadia charged that the Christian countries had earmarked Rs.65,000 crores per year to carry out religious conversions in a massive scale in the country.Even though their massive efforts, they could achieve meagre results as Hindus are expressing reluctance to convert, Mr Togadia said.'' What is unfortunate is that the evangelical campaigners, hailed from Hindu families only,'' he regretted.
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Telangana row: JAC denounces PC for passing buck

Hyderabad, Aug 12 : Denouncing Union Home Minister P Chidambaram's stand that it was up to the state government to decide the withdrawal of police cases registered against students, leaders of the Telangana Students' Joint Action Committee (TSJAC) castigated saying that they do not have faith in him any more.Talking to mediapersons, the TSJAC leaders accused Union Home Minister of backtracking his assurance of December 9 last saying that the withdrawal of cases against the students rest with the state government. The student leaders also said, ''They have lost faith in the Centre, as the government has kept changing its statements according to the situation.'' The TSJAC leaders pointed out even after nine months of December 9 statement, Telangana remains a dream. They reaffirmed vow to continue their fight for a separate Telangana state and said that they are not afraid of more cases being filed against them.The leaders further warned the MPs from Telugu Desam Party to resign or face the same fate as meted out to the party's senior leader Nagam Janardhan Reddy.Janardhan Reddy was beaten up by the students inside Osmania University campus when he went there to offer his party's support to their cause.
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CWG Exhibition Express on display in Secunderabad from tomorrow

Hyderabad, Aug 13 : The Commonwealth Express Exhibition Train, on a countrywide journey in the run-up to the Commonwealth Games, will be on display at Secunderabad Railway Station from August 14 to 16.The Exhibition train was flagged off by Union Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee on June 24 at Safdarjung Railway Station, New Delhi.It Will be open for public viewing with free entry on all the three days on Platform No 10, (Bhoiguda Side) of Secunderabad Railway Station from 1000 hrs to 2000 hrs.As a part of the exhibition, South Central Railway Sports Association (SCRSA) Chief Patron and South Central Railway General Manager M S Jayanth will felicitate eminent sports personalities from the City.The Exhibition train is slated to be on display at 48 Railway Stations over a period of 101 days. The journey will culminate on October 1 at Safdarjung Railway Station, New Delhi, a SCR release here said yesterday.
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Telangana parties urge Governor to sack Andhra ministers

Hyderabad, Aug 12: Pro-Telangana political parties and groups Thursday urged Andhra Pradesh Governor to sack ministers from Andhra for calling those demanding a separate Telangana as "anti-nationals".Telangana Joint Action Committee chairman M. Kodandaram, Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) chief K. Chandrasekhara Rao and leaders of Bharatiya Janata Party Thursday met Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan to demand action against the ministers. Kodandaram told reporters that they urged the governor to sack the ministers for hurting the sentiments of the people of Telangana. "If the governor takes no action, then the JAC will decide its future course of action." He said the ministers not only made unconstitutional remarks in their representation to the Srikrishna Committee but later denied making them. KCR, as the TRS chief is popularly known, said the ministers were unfit to continue in their posts. The ministers in their representation to the Srikrishna Committee last week termed the Telangana movement "anti national", "seditious" and a "threat to the integrity of the nation". The ministers wanted the demand for Telangana to be treated as cognizable offence.
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CPI demands cancellation of Bayyaram mining lease

Hyderabad, Aug 12 : Demanding cancellation of the mining lease to a company allegedly owned by a son-in-law of former Andhra Pradesh chief minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy, Communist Party of India (CPI) Thursday laid siege to Khammam district.Police arrested CPI state secretary K. Narayana and other leaders and activists for staging protests on roads in different parts of the district. The road blockades brought vehicular traffic to halt at several places including on the borders with Chhattisgarh and Orissa. Alleging serious irregularities in the lease to Rakshana Steels Ltd for iron ore mining, CPI demanded that the lease be cancelled. Opposition parties alleged that late chief minister Rajasekhara Reddy's son-in-law Anil Kumar owns Rakshana Steels but the latter has denied this. Narayana, CPI legislator P. Nageswara Rao and other leaders were arrested at Paleru in Khammam district. The main opposition Telugu Desam Party (TDP) supported the CPI protest. Police also arrested CPI workers who staged a protest at the office of Andhra Pradesh Mineral Development Corporation (APMDC). Last month, the state government had requested the central government to keep in abeyance its earlier notification granting 56,690 hectares of land allotted to the APMDC, that was later handed over to Rakshana Steels Ltd for iron ore mining and setting up of a steel plant. The central government had reserved 56,690 hectares in Bayyaram, Garla and Nelakondapally mandals of Khammam district for exclusive exploration, covering survey and investigation of mineral-bearing areas in favour of APMDC. The move to put the lease on hold, taken allegedly at the instance of Congress leadership, was seen as an attempt to checkmate Rajasekhara Reddy's son Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy for defying the party. The state government, however, said it was done for proper re-verification of the extent of area as objections were raised about the impact of mining on habitations, railway lines and roads. Claiming that it was a bigger scam than the one in Karnataka involving Karnataka minister Gali Janardhan Reddy, the TDP and the Left parties are demanding a thorough probe in the matter. The parties alleged that the lease was given by YSR government a few months before the elections last year.
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Delivery of LPG cylinder as per your convenience!

Hyderabad, Aug 12 : Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOC) today launched a new exclusive customer service initiative 'preferred time LPG delivery' in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad with immediate effect, aiming to benefit the working couples.In a statement, IOC Executive Director N Srikumar said over 11 lakh IOC Indane households in the twin cities served through an extensive network of 45 LPG distributors would benefit from the new preferred time LPG supply. With this new initiative, the customers could choose the time and a day of the week for delivery of the LPG refills at their homes. The special service would be available to the customers at very nominal additional delivery charges ranging from Rs 25 to Rs 50, depending on the time band of the delivery time preferred.There are three options available in the scheme for scheduling LPG refill deliveries in Hyderabad and Secunderabad. Under the preferred time option, the customer could choose only the time of delivery which means the refill will be delivered during the desired time band on any given day from Monday through Friday. If the customer misses the delivery on the scheduled day of delivery, it will be made during the same time band on the next day. The next option is that a customer can indicate not only the time of delivery but also the day of the week on which refill is to be delivered. The third option gives the customers the choice of receiving the cylinders refills anytime between 0800 hrs and and 1800 hrs on weekends - Saturday or Sunday.Customer, who would like to avail of this facility, must register through a stipulated format available with the distributors or by logging into the website IndianOil viz www.indane.co.in. The customers have the flexibility of changing the choice of day and time after six months of initial registration. A registered Preferred Time Customer will necessarily receive cylinders only on the day/time opted for and they will not be delivered at times other than their preference. Customers have the option of de-registering from the service by applying to the distributor or through the websites, Mr Srikumar added.
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Manmohan Singh becomes third longest-serving PM

Manmohan Singh has become the third longest-serving prime minister of India as he completed 2,273 days in office Wednesday.India’s first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru tops the list at 6,130 days, while his daughter Indira Gandhi remains the second longest-serving prime minister with 5,829 days in office.“There are no special celebrations for the day. The prime minister is following his routine schedule,” an official in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), who declined to be identified, said.“The main functions he celebrates related to his office are the anniversaries of the UPA (United Progressive Alliance) government.They are all well publicised functions attended by UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and other leaders,” the official added.Manmohan Singh, 77, moved to the thrid slot Wednesday, replacing his predecessor Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who had been in office for 2,272 days over three terms.Vajapyee was prime minister for 13 days in 1996 and for 2,256 days in the second and third terms during 1998-2004.The Manmohan Singh-led UPA-1 (2004-2009), at 1,826 days, holds the second position among the longest-serving central governments. Indira Gandhi’s second stint (March 18, 1971-March 24, 1977) tops the list at 2,198 days. This became possible for Indira Gandhi as her government’s tenure was extended during the emergency.After Nehru, Manmohan Singh is the only prime minister to have been re-elected on completion of a full five-year-term.“Dr. Singh does not bother about ornamental statistics. His focus is always on dedication and quality of work,” said the PMO official.
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Court reinstates Andhra varsity vice-chancellor

Hyderabad, Aug 11 : The Andhra Pradesh High Court Wednesday reinstated Kusuma Kumari as the vice-chancellor of the Sri Krishnadevaraya University in Anantapur district. She was removed by the government earlier this month over alleged lapses.In an interim order, the court set aside the government order dismissing her for alleged involvement in irregularities in recruitment of professors. Justice N. Ramamohana Rao while reinstating Kusuma Kumari said her removal without giving her a hearing was against the principle of natural justice. University Chancellor and Andhra Pradesh Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan sacked her Aug 2 on the state government's recommendation. The move followed a probe by a retired judge of the high court into allegations against Kusuma Kumari, 60. The high court directed the government to provide a copy of the probe report to her and gave her a month's time to go through the same and inform the court. It was the first time in the state's history that the government had removed a university vice-chancellor on charges of irregularities. The issue had assumed political overtones with Kusuma Kumari accusing the K. Rosaiah government of targeting her for being close to the camp of his rival and Congress MP Y.S.Jaganmohan Reddy. Kusuma Kumari is the sister-in-law of former chairman of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD), B. Karunakar Reddy, a loyalist of Jagan. She challenged the government order in the high court and contended that she was removed without even giving her an opportunity of being heard. She said she was sacked by the government in a great hurry as it came a day after the government received the judicial commission's report. Governor Narasimhan Monday defended the action against Kusuma Kumari and denied that there were any political motives behind it.
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Conference, workshop on type 2 diabetes on Aug 21

Hyderabad, Aug 11 : The first international conference and live workshop on heal interposition for type 2 diabetes (DIA-SURG 2010) will be held at Marriott Convention Centre here on August 21.Dr Aureo Ludovico de Paula of Brazil, who is the pioneer of procedure - Heal Transposition Surgery (small intestinal switch) for control and finally cure of Diabetes, will address the conference, which is likely to be attended by more than 100 doctors from all parts of the country, Conference Organising Chairman Surendra Ugale said in a press release here today.''It is his maiden visit to India...This is the first ever conference by Dr Paula not only in our country but in Asian continent. India, being the diabetic capital of the world, and Hyderabad being India's diabetic capital, this procedure should be able to do a lot of good for Indian diabetics,'' Dr Ugale added.
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Trains cancelled, re-scheduled due to derailment

Hyderabad, Aug 11 : Some trains were diverted, cancelled and rescheduled due to derailment of Hyderabad-Aurangabad passenger train at Kohir station on Vikarabad-Parli-Vaijnath section of Secunderabad Division today.According to a statement here, train no 7205 Manmad-Kakinada Town Express, which left Manmad yesterday and arrived at Pangaon, has been diverted to run via Parli Vaijnath, Parbani, Mudhked, Nizamabad and Secunderabad.Train no 6594 Bangalore-Nanded Express, which left Bangalore yesterday, had been diverted to run via Vikarabad, Secunderabad and Mudhked.Train no 6593 Nanded-Bangalore Express, scheduled to leave Nanded at 0600 hrs today, left at 0900 hrs.Train no 347 Hyderabad-Purna Passenger train, scheduled to leave Hyderabad at 0755 hrs today, had been cancelled. Train no 348 Purna-Hyderabad Passenger Train, scheduled to leave Purna at 0710 hrs tomorrow, had been cancelled, the released added.
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Press Academy conducts mid-career training for mediapersons

Hyderabad, Aug 10 : Press Academy of Andhra Pradesh today announced that two exclusive courses for experienced mediapersons under ''Mid-Career Training for Mediapersons'' to improve their skills.In tune with the road-map announced for the current year, the academy has initiated the two courses with the association offered by Jawaharlal Nehru Architecture and Fine Arts University (JNA and FAU).In this regard, MOU was signed between Press Academy of Andhra Pradesh and Jawaharlal Nehru Architecture and Fine Arts University in the presence of Chief Minister K Rosaiah, Minister for Information and Public Relations J Geetha Reddy, Commissioner of Information and Public Relations C Parthasarathi, Chairman, Press Academy of Andhra Pradesh, Vice-Chancellor, JNA and FA University Tirumalagiri Surender and Dr P Padmavathi.As per the MOU, two courses Digital Production Techniques in Media and Photo Journalism will be organised by the JNAFAU and CFA, Hyderabad.The duration of each course is of three months and the number of seats are 30 in each course.The date of commencement of courses will be announced later, a release from press academy of AP said.
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Southern DGPs meet opens tomorrow

Hyderabad, Aug 10 : Andhra Pradesh Home Minister Sabitha Indra Reddy will open the third southern states Directors General of Police (DGPs) meet here tomorrow.The DGPs of Southern States -Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala and Puducherry-will be attending the meet with their teams of CID and Intelligence Officers. The purpose of the conference is to exchange information and extend mutual co-operation among the southern states. This conference would provide a common platform enabling member State Police Departments on the matters of exchanging information and intelligence relating to various traditional and special crimes viz., property crime, bodily crime, white collar crime, cyber crime, fake Indian currency notes circulation crimes, narcotics and psychotropic substances crime. marine policing issues pertaining to coordination with Coast Guard and other agencies will also be discussed along with the best practices in prevention, detection and prosecution in organised crimes.The conference is also intended to suggest/exchange information on ways and means to tackle left wing extremism, fundamentalism and terrorism apart from busting various organised crime modules and also to keep police agencies informed in tracing out hard core criminal gangs and executing non-bailable warrants (NBWs) on inter-state criminals.Several other subjects such as Video Piracy, Anti-Human Trafficking (AHT) and illegal immigration networks operated by unscrupulous elements to Gulf and South East Asian Nations will also be discussed in the day-long conference. The measures to effectively tackle the Video Piracy, Narcotic Drugs, fake Indian currencies from source to destination will be debated at length. Gangs of dacoits, robberers and offenders operating in diverting attention across the border and such operational information will also be discussed. The conference will address all the above issues for which it is being held and enable southern states to work together to bring the offenders of all hues to justice.Prior to this, the first Conference was held by Tamil Nadu in August 2008 and by Kerala in August 2009, according to an official release here today.
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Firecrackers blast kills five in Andhra

Hyderabad, Aug 10 : Five people were killed and six injured when firecrackers being manufactured illegally in a house in Andhra Pradesh's West Godavari district exploded Tuesday, police said. A probe has been ordered.So powerful was the blast in Peddaellamelli village of Unguturu mandal that three houses were damaged. The incident set off panic in the entire area. Local people told police that fire broke out in the house where firecrackers were being manufactured illegally. It was followed by blasts and the flames engulfed the neighbouring houses. An eight-year-old boy was among those killed. Police said the bodies had not yet been identified as some of them have been charred beyond recognition. The toll might go up as the work to clear the debris is on. District Superintendent of Police Ravi Verma said some people were reported missing. "The death toll will be known only after all the debris is cleared," he said. The injured were shifted to a hospital at Tadepalligudem. After a visit to the scene of the accident, District Collector Vani Prasad ordered a probe . ============================================================

Headmistress tortures students with burning wood

Hyderabad, Aug 10 : In a shocking incident, the headmistress of a government-run primary school in Andhra Pradesh's Warangal district tortured students with a burning wood as they were making noise in their classes.At least 13 children of Class 1 to 4 sustained burn injuries on different parts of their bodies Monday. The incident that took place in Jamandlapalli village of Mahabubabad mandal came to light Tuesday when parents along with their children staged a protest outside the school, demanding action against the headmistress, Shruti Kirti. Acting swiftly, the district education officer of Warangal suspended the headmistress and ordered a probe into the incident. Parents alleged that the headmistress had been cruelly punishing students for the last few days. The children, including girls, showed torture marks on their hands and legs.
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Mamata urges Maoists to give up violence, sit for talks

Aug,09, Railway minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee Monday urged the Maoists to eschew violence and come for talks, and appealed to social activists and thinkers like Swami Agnivesh, Medha Patkar and Mahashweta Devi to broker the discussions.

Addressing a huge rally in this Maoist-hit area of West Midnapore district, Banerjee also promised to shower development goodies like renovating schools, setting up hospitals, colleges and a railway factory for giving employment to the local people.“I request everyone with folded hands, please eschew violence, stop killings. I am telling all those, including the Maoists who are indulging in violence, to help in restoring peace. Medhaji (Medha Patkar), Swami (Agnivesh) are here. They should talk to the Maoists and ensure restoration of peace”.Banerjee said she was not in favour of establishing peace by using rifles, condemning the manner in which Maoist spokesman Cherukiri Rajkumar alias Azad was “killed” last month.“What happened is not right. Azad had reposed faith in the democratic process,” she said at the “apolitical” rally organised under the banner of the Anti-Atrocities Democratic Forum.

The Moists and the pro-rebel tribal body People’s Committee Against Police Atrocities (PCAPA) had extended support to the rally also attended by social activists like Agnivesh and Patkar, and pro-rebel writer Mahasweta Devi, among other intellectuals.“Let the peace process start from today. Let negotiations begin. Let Bengal show the way to India, wherever there is disturbance and misunderstanding,” Banerjee said.“Tell us when and where you will sit. We all want to sit. However, if my presence poses problems in the peace process, I won’t mind if I am kept out of it,” she said.“If a policeman dies, or a mediaperson, or a Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) activist or a Maoist, that’s equally sad. All are human beings. I don’t want anybody to die. I don’t want politics of death”.She also appealed to the left ultras not to obstruct railway services as it adversely hit the daily life of the common man.Categorically saying she did not support the Maoists’ politics of violence and killings, Banerjee asked the CPI-M and Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee should think why the Lalgarh movement was on despite their 34-year rule. “There is a dearth of development, schools, colleges and hospitals. The government could ensure only 12 days’ work under the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS),” she said.Banerjee said Rs.20 lakh would be sanctioned for the Ramakrishna Vidyalaya here from Minister of State for Shipping Mukul Roy’s MPs Local Area Development fund.Apparently referring to the Maoists, she asked: “What do you want? Schools, college, rights over forests? I feel tribals should have rights over forests.”The Trinamool chief, whose party is the second largest constituent of the ruling United Progressive Alliance at the centre, however, said her powers were limited. “We are in power. But our party has only 19 MPs. It’s not that they (Congress) listen to whatever we say”.On land acquisition, she said she was against taking land by force. “In railways whenever we have to take land we provide employment to the landlosers and take minimum land with their consent”.“Show me one area where I have deviated. If I have, I will publicly admit it and apologise,” she said, in an apparent reply to some questions made by the Maoists in an open letter to her on and acquisition and some other issues.Banerjee told the ultras that their policy of violence was only benefiting the CPI-M.Accusing the CPI-M of misleading the people and committing atrocities by putting on police and military fatigues, she appealed to Patkar and Agnivesh to visit other violence-prone areas of the state. “If necessary, we can go to areas outside the state like Dantewada also to bring back peace”.Addressing a party rally at Tamluk of East Midnapore district, state Congress chief Manas Bhunia welcomed Banerjee’s rally at Lalgarh.However, Congress general secretary in charge of the state K. Kesava Rao stayed away from the Trinamool Congress’ invitation to attend the Lalgarh rally citing the party’s meeting at Tamluk around the same time.

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PM to discuss Kashmir situation with state leaders

Aug,09, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will review the violence-hit situation in Kashmir Valley and the ways to restore normalcy there when he meets the leaders of political parties of Jammu and Kashmir here Tuesday, official sources said.meeting will be held at the residence of Manmohan Singh – 7, Race Course Road – at 6 p.m. Tuesday.“The meeting will be a follow-up of the all-party meeting convened by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in Srinagar on July 11,” a state government official said.

Omar Abdullah and his father and union Minister Farooq Abdullah, state Congress chief Saifuddin Soz and Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislature party chief Ashok Khajuria, J&K National Panther’s Party (J&K NPP) chief Bhim Singh and legislator Harshdev Singh and Communist Party of India-Marxist MLA Muhammed Yusuf Tarigami are among the leaders expected to attend the meet.However, the main opposition party – People’s Democratic Party (PDP)- led by Mehbooba Mufti has said it would not attend the meet. The PDP had boycotted the July 11 Srinagar meet also, saying a meeting “led by Omar Abdullah would serve no purpose”.The J&K NPP, which had also boycotted the Srinagar meet, has decided to attend the Tuesday meeting as “it will be chaired by the PM and not the unpopular chief minister”, party chief Bhim Besides the prime minister, Home Minister P. Chidambaram, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee and National Security Adviser Shivshankar Menon are likely to attend the meet, sources said.The state’s leaders will present the prime minister a copy of the resolution adopted at the Srinagar meeting and seek his intervention in solving the problems faced by the people.The state leaders are likely to urge the centre to ensure sufficient supply of foodgrains, medicines and other essentials during Ramadan, the Muslim fasting month, beginning Wednesday.A resolution adopted at the Srinagar meeting had urged the prime minister to “give a fillip to internal and external dialogue”.The meeting had asked the state government to institute an independent inquiry into the killing of civilians in the Valley. However, the BJP had disassociated from this decision. A few days later, the state government ordered the inquiry.The Srinagar meeting had also called upon people to “help in restoration of peace and normalcy in the state”.Kashmir had been hit by a cycle of violence since June 11, with 50 civilians killed, mostly in firing by security forces on stone-pelting street protesters. Normal life has been severely affected with curfew imposed by the authorities and daily shutdowns called by the separatists =============================================================

Andhra’s interests not compromised on Babhali: Rosaiah

Hyderabad,July,04, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister K.Rosaiah Tuesday denied that he compromised the interests of the state on the Babhali barrage dispute during a meeting with his Maharashtra counterpart in the presence of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.Addressing a news conference Tuesday evening, he said Andhra Pradesh would continue to pursue the contempt of court case filed in the Supreme Court against Maharashtra for not abiding by its interim order.“At the same time the two states will continue their efforts to find a mutually acceptable solution to the problem,” Rosaiah said.The chief minister said it was the opinion of the central government that both the states should abide by the Supreme Court order on the dispute. He said the central government had also directed the Maharashtra government to clarify Andhra Pradesh’s doubts on 13 other projects being built by it across Godavari river.Rosaiah denied the allegation by Leader of Opposition N. Chandrababu Naidu that he compromised the state’s interests during the meeting with Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan and the prime minister in New Delhi Monday.He, however, declined to reveal details of the meeting, saying it was not proper to do so.Rosaiah said the prime minister directed Union Minister for Water Resources Pawan Kumar Bansal to hold a meeting with ministers and officials of the two states to follow-up on the meeting held Monday.Earlier, Naidu told reporters that Rosaiah compromised the state’s interests during the meeting to save his “chair”. He pointed out that Maharashtra had already violated the Supreme Court’s interim order in the case by going ahead with the Babhali barrage across the Godavari.The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief, who along with other party leaders was arrested by Maharashtra police recently for marching towards Babhali, wanted Rosaiah to reveal the details of the meeting.“Will Maharashtra stop the construction of 13 other illegal projects being built by it. Has Mr.Rosaiah raised this issue in the meeting and what was the response of Maharashtra and the prime minister?” asked Naidu.Praja Rajyam Party (PRP) chief K. Chiranjeevi also said the meeting was not satisfactory. He too urged Rosaiah to call an all-party meeting and reveal the details of his discussions in Delhi.Andhra Pradesh argues that Babhali dam will deprive the state of its rightful share of Godavari waters.
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Andhra government awards L and T Hyderabad Metro project

Hyderabad, Aug 4: The Andhra Pradesh government Wednesday awarded the Rs.12,132 crore Hyderabad Metro Rail (HMR) project to leading construction group Larsen and Toubro (L and T).A cabinet meeting, chaired by Chief Minister K.Rosaiah, approved selection of L and T as the developer of the project and decided to release Rs.500 crore as the state government's share in the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) for the Metro, Information and Public Relations Minister Geeta Reddy said. The foundation stone of the project will be laid in January and the entire project is expected to be completed in five years. A three-member evaluation committee, which evaluated the financial bids, had submitted its recommendations to the government. The recommendations were examined by law and finance departments and the same were placed before the cabinet for awarding the project to the lowest bidder. Rosaiah recently said the project would be developed as a role model and would have more advanced features than Delhi metro. The elevated metro system will have state of the art features like foolproof signalling system, air conditioned coaches, stations with escalators and lifts, and air conditioned feeder bus services. The project will cover high density traffic corridors of Hyderabad spanning over 71 km - Miyapur-LB Nagar (28.87 km); JBS-Falaknuma (14.78 km); and Nagole-Shilparamam (27.51 km). Out of six companies that bid for the project, L and T emerged as the lowest bidder seeking Rs.1,458 crore, the least from the government in terms of VGF. The central government had agreed to give Rs.2,363 under VGF. The authorities called for fresh global bids last year after scrapping the deal with Maytas, a sister-concern of scam-hit Satyam Computer Services, as it failed to achieve financial closure.
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Govt committed to build citizen-centric info system:CM

Hyderabad, Aug 4 : Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister K Rosaiah today said his government was committed to build a citizen-centric, inclusive and development-oriented Information Society where everyone can create, access and utilise knowledge in a seamless manner to achieve full potential in promoting sustainable development thereby improving the quality of life.Addressing a gathering on the inauguration of three-day e-India 2010 here, he claimed Andhra Pradesh was pioneer in e-Governance and making available the services to common man in a transparent, simple and efficient manner. He cited the examples of a few successful e-Governance projects of the State like e-Seva (electronic delivery of citizen services) and computerised registration of immovable property documents (CARD).Andhra Pradesh had emerged as a State providing the right climate for the growth of IT business and is now one of the most preferred destinations in the country, he further claimed.
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Another woman dies of swine flu in Andhra

Hyderabad, Aug 4 : Another pregnant woman died of swine flu in Andhra Pradesh Wednesday, taking the toll to 18 since June this year.The woman died at King George Hospital in coastal city of Visakhapatanam. She was undergoing treatment at the hospital for the last few days and was from Araku valley, doctors said. Two women have died of the virus in as many days. Nine of the 18 dead so far have been pregnant women. This is the fourth death due to swine flu in Visakhapatnam during the last one-and-half months. The latest death was reported a day after a woman died in Hyderabad. Asma Begum, 38, a resident of old city of Hyderabad, died at the Gandhi Hospital. Ten fresh cases of swine flu were also reported in the state Tuesday. Eight of them were women. Five of the fresh cases were reported in the state capital. According to K.Subhakar, the state nodal officer for swine flu, the number of swine flu cases this year had gone up to 177. As many as 167 cases were reported since June 1. The health authorities are concerned over rapid spread of swine flu in Hyderabad, its suburbs and in north coastal Andhra. Subhakar said the virus could spread rapidly during monsoon and winter. He, however, assured people that there was no need for panic. The health officials claimed that all precautionary measures were being taken to check the spread of the virus. Concerned over the spurt in swine flu cases, Chief Minister K.Rosaiah has directed the officials to make sufficient stocks of medicines available all over the state, particularly in district hospitals and primary health centres. However, the chief minister called upon the people not to panic and contact the nearest hospital or doctor in case of swine flu symptoms. As many as 54 people died of swine flu in the state last year. Nearly 800 cases were reported. The first swine flu case in India was detected at Hyderabad airport May 16 last year. Most of the deaths were reported in September-October.
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Woman's body found in suitcase in Hyderabad

Hyderabad, Aug 3 : The body of a middle aged woman dumped in a suitcase was found under a flyover near Mehdipatnam on the busy thoroughfare of the city today.As the suitcase was lying under flyover, people raise an alarm and then police and bomb squad reached the site. Bomb squad finally opened the suitcase and were surprised to find the body of the woman stuffed inside.The limbs of the woman were tied and her face was smeared with ink apparently to hide her identity.Police sent the body for autopsy and investigation is on to identify the victim.
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