ACB Court Extends Chandrababu Naidu’s Remand in Skill Development Case

ACB Court Extends Chandrababu Naidu’s Remand in Skill Development Case:

Previously, the Vijayawada Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB) court had reserved its judgment on the bail petition of former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu. This decision came after the ACB court extended the remand of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) Chief in connection with the alleged multi-crore skill development scam case until October 19.

Chandrababu Naidu, the former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP leader, was arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) last month in connection with the alleged multi-crore skill development scam case. This arrest led to political turmoil in the state, with many TDP leaders claiming it to be a politically motivated “witch-hunt” based on false allegations.

In the midst of these developments, Andhra Pradesh Crime Investigation Department chief N Sanjay asserted that Naidu was the main conspirator in the AP Skill Development scam, stating that Naidu had orchestrated corruption during his tenure as Chief Minister.

ACB Court Extends Chandrababu Naidu's Remand in Skill Development Case

Furthermore, the Supreme Court did not grant interim relief to Chandrababu Naidu in the skill development scam case on Tuesday. The court has scheduled a hearing for Naidu’s plea on October 9.

Meanwhile, on Saturday, Chandrababu Naidu’s wife, Nara Bhuvaneswari, and several Telugu Desam Party leaders staged a protest against his arrest. They symbolically switched off the lights at the party’s temporary camp office and lit earthen lamps in protest.

Also read: Telangana Assembly Elections Countdown Commences

Telangana Assembly Elections Countdown Commences

Telangana Assembly Elections Countdown Commences:

The Election Commission of India has officially announced the date for the Telangana legislative assembly elections. Telangana, the last state in the country to go to the polls, is scheduled to hold its elections on November 30th in a single phase.

With the current Telangana Assembly’s term expiring on January 16, 2024, the political landscape in the state is gearing up for an exciting contest. Telangana comprises a total of 119 assembly constituencies, all of which will conduct polling on the same day.

The Election Commission’s declaration has set the stage for a competitive race among various political parties vying for control of the state legislature. As the election date approaches, campaigns are expected to intensify, with parties and candidates actively engaging with voters across the state’s diverse regions.

On November 30th, the people of TS will exercise their voting rights, and the results will be eagerly anticipated. Vote counting is slated for December 3rd, with final results expected and elections to be concluded by December 5th. This announcement has put political parties, candidates, and voters on high alert as they prepare for this pivotal electoral event.

Telangana Assembly Elections Countdown Commences

As the countdown to the Telangana legislative assembly elections commences, attention turns to the critical issues and electoral pledges that will influence the state’s future. Stay tuned for further updates and comprehensive coverage as TS approaches a significant moment in its political history.

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Today’s CWC Meeting to Focus on Poll Strategy and Caste Census

Today’s CWC Meeting to Focus on Poll Strategy and Caste Census:

The Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting scheduled for Monday will center on two main topics: a nationwide caste census and strategies for upcoming elections. This meeting comes in the context of impending assembly elections in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, and Mizoram. Key attendees include Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, former party leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, chief ministers from Congress-ruled states, and other top party officials.

Discussions will revolve around election preparedness and narratives for the states facing upcoming polls. Additionally, the CWC will engage in extensive deliberations regarding the party’s strong advocacy for a nationwide caste census and the potential implications of this demand.

There are concerns within the Congress regarding how to articulate their call for a caste census, especially after Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the opposition party of attempting to create divisions among Hindus by advocating for the inclusion of Other Backward Classes (OBCs).

Today's CWC Meeting to Focus on Poll Strategy and Caste Census
Today’s CWC Meeting to Focus on Poll Strategy and Caste Census

Congress spokesperson Abhishek Singhvi, a regular CWC member, recently expressed concerns about Rahul Gandhi’s slogan, “jitni abaadi, utna haq” (rights proportionate to population), arguing that it could be seen as an endorsement of majoritarianism. Although Singhvi deleted his controversial post after Congress distanced itself from his remarks, there remain lingering concerns within the party about how to effectively communicate their politically sensitive stance on the caste census.

Also read: Etala Demands BC-A Status for Mudiraj Community, Blames KCR

Etala Demands BC-A Status for Mudiraj Community, Blames KCR

Etala Demands BC-A Status for Mudiraj Community, Blames KCR:

Senior BJP leader Etala Rajendar has urged the state government to reclassify the Mudiraj community from BC-D to BC-A, enabling them to access education and employment reservations. He criticized Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao for not taking action on this matter despite a significant public meeting held by the Mudiraj community in 2016.

Speaking at the ‘Mudiraj Atmagaurava Sabha’ at Parade Ground, Rajendar accused all political parties of neglecting the Mudiraj community. He pointed out that during the tenure of Y.S. Rajashekar Reddy as Chief Minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh, the community was reclassified from BC-D to BC-A through a government order (GO). However, due to legal issues, this change was only in effect for a year. Rajendar noted that reservations for minorities, announced during the same period, remain in force and are protected by minority MLAs in the Supreme Court. In contrast, the Mudiraj community lacks representation, leading to the neglect of their issue.

Rajendar emphasized that the Mudiraj community constitutes 11 percent of the state’s population and called on the state government to allocate Rs 20,000 crore for their welfare. He criticized the government’s current allocation of Rs 500 crore under the BRS regime for the free distribution of fishlings and demanded monetary support instead.

Etala Rajendar also called for the Mudiraj community to have complete rights over irrigation projects and water bodies and to grant membership in fishermen societies to all Mudiraj individuals. He warned of potential actions if solar panels installed in irrigation projects adversely affect their livelihood.

Furthermore, Rajendar criticized Rao for not allocating any tickets to Mudiraj community members for the upcoming elections, despite their population share. He argued that this insulted the community and questioned why they should support a party that does not respect their representation.

Etala Rajendar expressed concerns that Rao was attempting to secure Mudiraj community votes through the free distribution of fishlings and urged the community not to fall for such tactics.

Meanwhile, Telangana Mudiraj Mahasabha president Ch Shankar Mudiraj echoed Rajendar’s sentiments, stating that the BRS government had insulted the community and attempted to diminish their self-respect. He pointed out that Mudirajs had played a significant role in bringing BRS to power in 2018 but had not received their fair share of representation.

Etala Demands BC-A Status for Mudiraj Community, Blames KCR
Etala Demands BC-A Status for Mudiraj Community, Blames KCR

The vice president of the organization, P. Nageswara Mudiraj, stated that thousands of people from all 119 constituencies had gathered at the Mahasabha to voice their concerns about the ruling Bharat Rashtra Samithi’s denial of assembly tickets to the community. He emphasized that Mudirajs represent 15 percent of the state’s population and are the largest caste among BCs, yet Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao did not give them representation in the party.

Also read: Purandeswari Calls for CBI Investigation into Andhra Pradesh Liquor Policy

Purandeswari Calls for CBI Investigation into Andhra Pradesh Liquor Policy

Purandeswari Calls for CBI Investigation into Andhra Pradesh Liquor Policy:

The President of the BJP in the state, Daggubati Purandeswari, met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi on Sunday and requested a CBI investigation into the liquor sales in Andhra Pradesh over the past four years.

During her meeting with Shah, She discussed various aspects of Andhra Pradesh affairs, with a particular focus on the liquor policy that has been in effect for the past four years. She presented a memorandum on this matter to the Home Minister.

In a recent statement to the media, she disclosed that upon examining the sales of a liquor store in Narsapur, West Godavari district, it was discovered that out of a total sales of Rs 1 lakh, only Rs 700 was made via digital payments.

Purandeswari Calls for CBI Investigation into Andhra Pradesh Liquor Policy
Purandeswari Calls for CBI Investigation into Andhra Pradesh Liquor Policy

She alleged that a significant portion of the daily liquor sales revenue was ending up in the hands of leaders from the ruling party. Purandeswari accused the YSRC government of embezzling public funds while claiming to provide freebies to the public.

Also read: PM Modi Conveys Shock and Concern Over Terrorist Attacks in Israel

Workers Demand Issue Resolution Before Breakfast Scheme

Workers Demand Issue Resolution Before Breakfast Scheme:

Midday meal workers from multiple districts staged a protest against the Chief Minister’s breakfast scheme, resorting to open cooking (“vanta varpu”) to exert pressure on authorities. They voiced their frustration over unresolved grievances, primarily focusing on the need for an increase in their honorarium due to their vital role in providing nutritious meals to schoolchildren.

Mithilamma, a spokesperson for the employees, emphasized that their honorarium had remained stagnant at Rs 1,000 for years, making it increasingly challenging to make ends meet, despite a government order (GO) in their favor. They also requested additional funds for procuring ration supplies to maintain nutritional standards while serving meals.

Facing overwork and understaffing, the workers struggled to meet the demands of preparing meals for thousands of students daily. They called on the authorities to hire more employees to ensure efficient program functioning. They insisted that the state government must address this issue before considering the breakfast scheme.

Workers Demand Issue Resolution Before Breakfast Scheme
Workers Demand Issue Resolution Before Breakfast Scheme

Many alleged that principals and teachers in various districts had given them a deadline to resolve the issues before the scheme’s implementation after Dasara.

The protesters hoped for support from various quarters, including TPCC chief A. Revanth Reddy, who had expressed solidarity with the midday meal workers.

Also read: PM Modi Conveys Shock and Concern Over Terrorist Attacks in Israel

PM Modi Conveys Shock and Concern Over Terrorist Attacks in Israel

PM Modi Conveys Shock and Concern Over Terrorist Attacks in Israel:

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has conveyed his profound dismay upon learning of the terrorist attacks in Israel. He expressed India’s unwavering solidarity with Israel during this challenging period and offered heartfelt thoughts and prayers for the innocent victims and their families.

In a statement shared on X, the Prime Minister stated, “I am deeply saddened by the reports of terrorist attacks in Israel. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the innocent victims and their families. India firmly stands with Israel during these trying times.”

PM Modi Conveys Shock and Concern Over Terrorist Attacks in Israel

Also read: GST Council Removes Tax on Millet Flour

Kishan Reddy to Launch Extension of Four Train Services in Hyderabad

Kishan Reddy to Launch Extension of Four Train Services in Hyderabad:

Union Minister and BJP State Chief G. Kishan Reddy will inaugurate the extension of four train services at a ceremony held at Secunderabad station. The event will feature the presence of Deputy Speaker T. Padma Rao, State Minister Mohd. Kishan Reddy had inaugurated the services.

State Ministers Mahmood Ali, Talasani Srinivas Yadav, and South Central Railway General Manager Arun Kumar Jain. They will officially launch the extension of the Hadapsar-Hyderabad Triweekly Express to Kazipet, Jaipur-Kacheguda Weekly Express to Kurnool, H.S. Nanded-Tandur Parbhani Daily Express to Raichur, and the Karimnagar-Nizamabad Daily Passenger to Bodhan. These extensions will become operational starting from October 9.

Salary hikes have been sanctioned for 418 contract and outsourcing employees working in 29 mini-gurukulams in Telangana. A Government Order (GO) was issued recently, outlining the revised remuneration structure. Under this structure, headmasters will receive a monthly salary of Rs 6,300, teachers Rs 4,500, physical education teachers (PET) Rs 3,300, accountants Rs 3,000, auxiliary nurse midwives (ANM) Rs 2,700, and Class IV employees Rs 2,250.

The Board of Intermediate Education of Andhra Pradesh (BIEAP) has initiated a campaign to distribute physical copies of intermediate certificates. Despite the availability of digital certificates online through the bieap.apcfss.in the portal, which are valid for university admissions, the department aims to streamline the process for students. Starting from October 10, students can collect their physical certificates from their respective colleges, with the board requesting parents to do so on behalf of their children. The digital 12th pass certificates, accessible on the official website (bieap.apcfss.in), have been widely accepted by universities across the region.

On Saturday, the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) presented awards to 286 of its employees. This included 36 winners of the Rakhi Poornami Challenge, 30 winners of the Shravana Masam Challenge, and 180 employees declared as the zonal level best, In addition to 25 individuals recognized in the “extra mile” category, 15 were acknowledged in the logistics department. Kishan Reddy initiated the services.

Kishan Reddy to Launch Extension of Four Train Services in Hyderabad
Kishan Reddy to Launch Extension of Four Train Services in Hyderabad

The recipients spanned various roles, including drivers, conductors, mechanics, helpers, workers, supervisors, depot managers, deputy regional managers, and RMs. RTC MD V.C. Sajjanar noted that the company has undergone transformative changes over the past two years. He mentioned that the Rakhi Poornami Challenge set a record by earning Rs 22.65 crore in a single day, and the earnings during Shravana Masam exceeded those of the previous year.

Also read: Priyanka Promises Caste Census and Praises Baghel for Bastar Development

Priyanka Promises Caste Census and Praises Baghel for Bastar Development

Priyanka Promises Caste Census and Praises Baghel for Bastar Development:

AICC General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi, during an event in Kanker, Bastar, pledged to conduct a caste census in Chhattisgarh if the Congress retained power in the upcoming state assembly elections. She also commended Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel for fostering economic development in rural Chhattisgarh, particularly in the insurgency-affected Bastar region.

Priyanka Gandhi highlighted the findings of a caste census in Bihar, revealing that 84 percent of the population belonged to OBC, SC, and ST categories. However, she noted that these groups were not adequately represented in high-ranking positions within the Bihar administration. She emphasized the importance of conducting a similar caste census in Chhattisgarh to ensure that these communities receive their rightful representation and benefits.

The Congress leader praised Baghel’s efforts in promoting rural economic growth in the state. She mentioned initiatives such as the waiver of farmers’ crop loans and various state government schemes that had put money directly into the pockets of farmers.

Priyanka Gandhi also noted the transformation of Bastar from a region plagued by Leftwing insurgency to a thriving tourist destination. She advocated for the Chhattisgarh model of development to be replicated in other states.

Priyanka Promises Caste Census and Praises Baghel for Bastar Development
Priyanka Promises Caste Census and Praises Baghel for Bastar Development

Critiquing Prime Minister Narendra Modi, she questioned why the Centre procured paddy from Chhattisgarh but not from Uttar Pradesh, suggesting selective policies. She accused Modi of prioritizing industrialists’ interests over the welfare of the poor and government employees.

Regarding the construction of a new parliament building, Priyanka Gandhi questioned the necessity of spending Rs 20,000 crore when the existing one was in good condition. She suggested that the new construction was driven by a desire to enhance Modi’s prestige.

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Pawan Kalyan’s Alliance Wish for AP 2024 Polls

Pawan Kalyan’s Alliance Wish for AP 2024 Polls

Hero and Politician Pawan Kalyan, who is running the Jana Sena Party in Andhra Pradesh, wanted to combine the Jana Sena-Telugu Desam-BJP group to win the 2024 Assembly elections.

Gathering at the party meeting at headquarters in Mangalagiri, Pawan stated that the Jana Sena Party did assist to BJP and TDP for the 2024 polls with the goal of enhancing the development of AP state. He wishes the same support to them for getting off of the YSRCP government from AP as well as the CM seat of Janan.

The leader said he sent one draft for the BJP to have leadership. He also asked them to accept our proposal for making a tripartite group to form an AP Government.

He claims that all the government employees who are working all over India and the state are not taking proper payment for their work on a regular basis. Adding to this He said state government officials are traveling to Delhi frequently to protest their problems and ask for financial help and they want salaries for government employees.

Pawan Kalyan's Alliance Wish for AP 2024 Polls
Pawan Kalyan’s Alliance Wish for AP 2024 Polls

YSRCP government is booking cases on activists as well as other persons and politicians for showing up for their activities like projects incompletion and misleading government funds etc, the Jana Sena leader said.

Jana Sena politician suggested to AP CM Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, to take assistance from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to set up boards for agriculture such as cashew nuts and coconut places where the production is growing in a big amount of quantities.

Also read: Telangana Chief Minister Launches Breakfast Scheme for 23 Lakh Students

Home Minister Amit Shah Aims to Eradicate Left Wing Extremism Within Two Years

Home Minister Amit Shah Aims to Eradicate Left Wing Extremism Within Two Years:

Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated on Friday that Left Wing Extremism (LWE) will be completely eradicated from the country within two years. He emphasized the importance of maintaining constant surveillance in areas that have been cleared of Naxals to prevent the problem from resurfacing. Shah chaired a meeting to assess the security situation in LWE-affected states and underscored that the Modi government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against LWE since 2014. As a result, 2022 witnessed the lowest levels of LWE violence and deaths in four decades.

The review meeting was attended by the chief ministers of Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Jharkhand, among others. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde highlighted the positive changes occurring in Naxal-affected areas due to development initiatives. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy expressed that LWE activities were limited to a few pockets in the state.

Amit Shah emphasized the need for collaborative efforts among affected states to dismantle the financial support network of LWE. He also stressed the importance of preventing Naxals from taking shelter in other states once the problem is eliminated in one area.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, progress has been made in curtailing LWE, with a decline in violence, deaths, and security force casualties. The government has also increased ex-gratia payments to victims of LWE violence and focused on development in affected regions, including infrastructure, telecommunications, financial inclusion, and education.

Amit Shah expressed that the fight against LWE is reaching a decisive phase, with the establishment of new Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) camps in vacuum areas and a significant reduction in violence. The government is committed to eliminating LWE and ensuring the security and development of affected regions.

Home Minister Amit Shah Aims to Eradicate Left Wing Extremism Within Two Years
Home Minister Amit Shah Aims to Eradicate Left Wing Extremism Within Two Years

The initiative to eradicate LWE in Telangana was inspired by a study conducted in Tamil Nadu, which served as a successful model for the program. By accelerating development and enhancing security, the government aims to create a safer and more prosperous environment in LWE-affected states.

Also read: Telangana Chief Minister Launches Breakfast Scheme for 23 Lakh Students

Telangana Chief Minister Launches Breakfast Scheme for 23 Lakh Students

Telangana Chief Minister Launches Breakfast Scheme for 23 Lakh Students:

Led by IT Minister K.T. Rama Rao, the inauguration of the Chief Minister’s Breakfast Scheme for government schools took place on Friday. This initiative will later be extended to encompass all state-run schools for students in Classes 1 to 10 following the Dasara vacation.

The scheme was officially launched at the Zilla Parishad High School in Raviryala, Rangareddy district, with the presence of Education Minister Sabitha Indra Reddy, Patnam Mahender Reddy, Ministers T. Harish Rao, Simultaneous launches occurred in select schools spanning all 119 constituencies. After the launch event, the ministers joined the students in partaking in the breakfast.

During the inauguration at a government high school in West Marredpally, Hyderabad, IT Minister Rama Rao highlighted that this groundbreaking initiative would positively impact approximately 23 lakh students. He emphasized the importance of upholding high-quality food standards and conducting regular quality checks to ensure that students receive nutritious and appetizing meals.

Finance Minister T. Harish Rao expressed that this move would transform school education by ensuring that students have access to nourishing meals, enabling them to concentrate on their studies. He underscored its particular significance for children from low-income backgrounds, as it alleviates the concern of sending their children to school on an empty stomach.

Education Minister Sabitha Indra Reddy pointed out that the scheme not only guarantees students’ daily access to nutritious meals but also addresses the issue of school dropouts. She shared a concerning statistic, revealing that only two out of every ten students had breakfast before coming to school. She extended gratitude to Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao for his understanding of these students’ challenges.

In addition to this, the Telangana government decided to expand the initiative to include students in Classes 9 and 10, going beyond the conventional mid-day meal program that typically caters to students up to Class 8. The breakfast menu offers two options, featuring a variety of dishes such as idli, pongal, poori, upma, vegetable pulao, and wheat rawa upma, accompanied by sambar and chutney.

Telangana Chief Minister Launches Breakfast Scheme for 23 Lakh Students
Telangana Chief Minister Launches Breakfast Scheme for 23 Lakh Students

This comprehensive scheme will encompass 23 lakh students across nearly 28,000 schools, encompassing aided and model institutions and madrasas under the education department’s purview. The Akshaya Patra Foundation will manage the breakfast program in urban areas, while self-help groups will oversee it in rural areas. The scheme is expected to incur an annual cost of approximately Rs 400 crore.

The decision to introduce the CM Breakfast Scheme in Telangana was informed by a study conducted by a team of officials who visited Tamil Nadu to observe a similar program there. Following their assessment and report submission, the Telangana government decided to implement the scheme for students in the state.

Also read: Kavitha’s Two-Day Visit to London Commences

Kavitha’s Two-Day Visit to London Commences

Kavitha’s Two-Day Visit to London Commences:

BRS Member of Legislative Council (MLC), K Kavitha, embarked on a brief two-day trip to London. Upon her arrival at Heathrow Airport on Friday, she was warmly welcomed by fellow BRS party members residing in London.

Kavitha’s visit to London has been primarily motivated by her role as a keynote speaker at the Bridge India event hosted at Central Hall, Westminster. This event gathers UK politicians, members of the Indian diaspora, civil society organizations, and students to discuss various topics, including the recent passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill. Additionally, she will participate in a panel discussion alongside distinguished panelists.

Kavitha's Two-Day Visit to London Commences
Kavitha’s Two-Day Visit to London Commences

During her first day in London, She will commence her visit with a trip to the Ambedkar Museum, a place of historical significance. Subsequently, she will engage as a keynote speaker at the Bridge India session, followed by the panel discussion. On the second day of her visit, she will partake in a round table discussion with a student delegation from NISAU.

Kavitha’s London itinerary encompasses a series of engagements and events, making the most of her two-day visit to the city.

Also read: Nadda Slams KCR for Aligning with ‘Razakaars’

Priyanka Gandhi Alleges Oversight of Corruption in Shivraj Government by ED

Priyanka Gandhi Alleges Oversight of Corruption in Shivraj Government by ED:

AICC General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi accused the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday of disregarding allegations of corruption within the Madhya Pradesh government.

While addressing a public gathering in Mohankheda, Dhar district, Madhya Pradesh, Ms. Gandhi claimed that the ED was selectively targeting Congress-led governments in the state and was not investigating allegations of corruption within the BJP government in the state.

She alleged that during Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s 18-year tenure as Chief Minister, around 250 corruption scandals had come to light.

In response, the BJP dismissed these allegations, asserting that Priyanka Gandhi lacked knowledge about Madhya Pradesh and merely recited a speech provided to her by the state’s Congress leader, Kamal Nath. BJP spokesman Dr. Hitesh Vajpayee stated, “She (Ms. Gandhi) is not familiar with Madhya Pradesh. She makes unfounded allegations without any basis. She visited the state as a visiting politician and recited the speech prepared for her by Mr. Nath.”

Priyanka Gandhi Alleges Oversight of Corruption in Shivraj Government by ED
Priyanka Gandhi Alleges Oversight of Corruption in Shivraj Government by ED

Priyanka Gandhi expressed skepticism regarding the implementation of the women’s reservation bill recently passed in Parliament, suggesting it may not be enforced for at least a decade.

She also pledged that if the Congress were to come to power in Madhya Pradesh in the upcoming year-end assembly elections, they would fulfill their promises of providing a monthly incentive of Rs 1500 to women and waiving crop loans for farmers.

Also read: Siddaramaiah Briefs Central Team on Drought Situation in Karnataka

Siddaramaiah Briefs Central Team on Drought Situation in Karnataka

Siddaramaiah Briefs Central Team on Drought Situation in Karnataka:

Three Central Government teams arrived in Bengaluru on Thursday for a four-day visit to assess the drought situation in Karnataka. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah appealed to these Central teams to support the distressed farmers during this challenging period.

During discussions with the Central teams, the Chief Minister highlighted that Karnataka had experienced exceptionally low rainfall this season, a rare occurrence in the past 122 years. As a result, crops have suffered damage across approximately 42 lakh hectares of land.

Siddaramaiah informed the Central teams that the State Government had already declared 195 taluks as drought-affected, while 32 other taluks in the state did not meet the Central Government’s criteria for declaring drought. He emphasized the critical situation by explaining that even though fields may appear green at first glance, they lack the necessary water to thrive.

The Chief Minister also drew attention to the low water levels in the Krishnaraja Sagar reservoir due to reduced rainfall in Madikeri district, which serves as the catchment area for the reservoir. He stressed that Karnataka is facing significant challenges due to the season’s inadequate rainfall, requiring approximately 33 tmc feet of water solely for drinking water needs.

Siddaramaiah Briefs Central Team on Drought Situation in Karnataka
Siddaramaiah Briefs Central Team on Drought Situation in Karnataka

Siddaramaiah pointed out that the number of small and marginal farmers in the state has increased in recent years and expressed the need for an increase in crop compensation for these farmers, as the current compensation levels, in accordance with NDRF guidelines, are insufficient.

The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Vandita Sharma, Secretary of the Revenue Department Rashmi Mahesh, and other relevant officials.

Also read: Tamil Nadu Government Issues Compensation Orders for Delta Farmers

Tamil Nadu Government Issues Compensation Orders for Delta Farmers

Tamil Nadu Government Issues Compensation Orders for Delta Farmers:

Chief Minister M K Stalin has declared compensation of Rs 13,500 per hectare for Kuruvai paddy crops that have withered in the delta region this season due to the River Cauvery’s water scarcity.

An official press release issued on Thursday explained that Kuruvai cultivation in the Cauvery delta commenced after the Chief Minister initiated water release from the Mettur dam on June 12, ahead of the usual schedule.

Unfortunately, the Cauvery’s water levels were depleted when the Karnataka government failed to honor its commitment to supply water to Tamil Nadu.

The press release further noted that more than 40,000 hectares of paddy crops have been adversely affected by the water shortage.

Tamil Nadu Government Issues Compensation Orders for Delta Farmers
Tamil Nadu Government Issues Compensation Orders for Delta Farmers

Despite the State government’s persistent efforts to secure its rightful share of Cauvery water through forums such as the Cauvery River Water Authority, the Supreme Court, and the Union Water Resources Ministry, Karnataka remained steadfast in its refusal to release water, citing scarcity as the rationale.

Also read: AP Police SI Posts Final Written Exam Scheduled for October 14-15

Lokesh to Visit Incarcerated Naidu Today

Lokesh to Visit Incarcerated Naidu Today:

Telugu Desam’s national general secretary, N. Lokesh, departed from Delhi on Thursday, where he had established his base to address the aftermath of his father, former Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu‘s situation.

He has been engaged in discussions with leaders from national parties and legal experts as part of his endeavors to secure his father’s release from incarceration. Upon arriving in Vijayawada, the TD leader is scheduled to pay a visit to the Central Prison in Rajahmundry on Friday, accompanied by other family members of the former CM.

Lokesh to Visit Incarcerated Naidu Today
Lokesh to Visit Incarcerated Naidu Today

He is expected to return to Delhi soon since the Supreme Court is slated to hear Chandrababu Naidu’s plea for the dismissal of the FIR related to the AP skill development scam on October 9. Additionally, the YSRC government has leveled accusations against the TDP leader in connection with the AP Fibernet and Amaravati Inner Ring Road scams.

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Priyanka Questions Delayed Implementation of Women’s Quota Bill

Priyanka Questions Delayed Implementation of Women’s Quota Bill:

On Thursday, Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expressed her criticism of the BJP-led Union government, stating that the recently passed legislation reserving seats for women in legislatures cannot be put into effect for a decade.

Addressing a rally in Mohankheda, Dhar district, which is gearing up for elections in Madhya Pradesh, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra questioned the government’s timing in introducing the bill when the women’s quota couldn’t be implemented right away.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expressed her disappointment, stating that the women’s reservation bill was introduced by the BJP-led Union government, with the support of all Opposition parties. However, the revelation that it wouldn’t be enforced for a decade and would be preceded by a census left her questioning the purpose of this announcement, feeling that it undermined the importance of Female representation.

The Congress leader pointed out that the government must conduct the delimitation exercise before enforcing the new Act, which reserves 33 percent of seats for females in the Lok Sabha and state legislatures, and this process will span a decade.

Priyanka Questions Delayed Implementation of Women's Quota Bill
Priyanka Questions Delayed Implementation of Women’s Quota Bill

Gandhi further questioned why a caste census is not being conducted if everyone truly has equal rights. She highlighted the Bihar caste census, which revealed that 84 percent of the population comprises OBCs and Dalits, yet these communities are not adequately represented in government positions. When asked about this issue, the BJP remains silent, according to Gandhi.

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PM Modi Unveils Projects in Poll-bound Rajasthan

PM Modi Unveils Projects in Poll-bound Rajasthan:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a series of development projects worth Rs 5,000 crore in Rajasthan, a state gearing up for elections. These projects span various sectors including transportation, healthcare, and education.

During the event, Modi laid the foundation stones for several initiatives, including a 350-bed trauma center and critical care hospital block at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Jodhpur, and seven critical care blocks as part of the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission.

He also initiated the construction of a new terminal building at Jodhpur Airport, marking a significant investment in infrastructure. Additionally, Modi flagged off two new train services and unveiled road development projects. The prime minister highlighted the importance of these endeavors in propelling Rajasthan towards greater development and prosperity.

PM Modi Unveils Projects in Poll-bound Rajasthan

He noted that significant progress has been made in electrifying railway lines in the state over the past nine years, emphasizing the commitment to infrastructure development. Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat was also present at the event.

Also read: Karnataka Requests Review of Cauvery Body’s Order in Petition

Karnataka Requests Review of Cauvery Body’s Order in Petition

Karnataka Requests Review of Cauvery Body’s Order in Petition:

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar announced that the state has submitted a petition to the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) requesting a review of its directive regarding water release to Tamil Nadu. He also stated that preparations are underway for constructing the Mekedatu balancing reservoir on the river.

Despite recent rainfall in some areas, Shivakumar emphasized the water scarcity in Cauvery basin reservoirs. He mentioned the government’s efforts to safeguard standing crops and expressed hope for more rain in the coming days.

The state has appealed to the CWMA, expressing its inability to release even 3,000 cusecs of water. Regarding the Mekedatu project, he assured me that legal preparations are being made.

When asked about the possibility of approaching the Supreme Court, Shivakumar indicated a step-by-step approach, emphasizing the need for careful consideration.

Regarding the formulation of a distress water-sharing formula during deficit rainfall years, he suggested addressing the issue after the current year.

The CWMA had previously directed Karnataka to release 3,000 cusecs of water daily to Tamil Nadu until October 15, despite Karnataka’s claims of inadequate reservoir storage.

Shivakumar reiterated that the Mekedatu balancing reservoir is the state’s preferred solution to resolve inter-state water disputes during periods of water scarcity. However, Tamil Nadu opposes the project, citing concerns for its interests and those of its farmers.

Shivakumar noted the current water deficit, with 106 tmc of water required and only 56 tmc available in Cauvery basin reservoirs. While there was an increase in inflow due to recent rainfall, it has since decreased.

Karnataka Requests Review of Cauvery Body's Order in Petition
Karnataka Requests Review of Cauvery Body’s Order in Petition

He highlighted the protection of standing crops thanks to the available water, considering the drought declaration. The state has advised against fresh crop planting until sufficient water availability is confirmed, with expectations of further rain next month guiding future decisions.

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