Telugu cinema Round up 2006 Sunday, December 31, 2006 | Pavan
Top Sensational Hits Of This Year 1. Pokiri 2. Bommarillu 3. Lakshmi 4. Devadasu 5. Vikramarkudu Top Miserable Flops of the Year 1. Pournami 2. Veerabhadra 3. Boss 4. Sainikudu 5. Khatarnak
Operation Kolleru success Saturday, December 30, 2006 | Pavan
The State witnessed the biggest-ever environmental restoration venture in the country in 2006. A determined government succeeded in removing age-old encroachments from Kolleru, Asias largest fresh water lake. The Congress government took up Operation Kolleru Clean up, a daunting ecological task which no government in the past had dared to think of. The encroachers were influential people with political connections. Over the years, they had converted encroached areas into fish ponds and were making good money. The attempt to dislodge them triggered strong protests. But armed with a stern directive from the Supreme Court, the State government mustered the courage to kick them out. The British government had granted pattas to local people to cultivate paddy in the lake during summer. The State government introduced co-operative farming in 1954 and this led to gradual encroachment of the lake. By 1969 almost the entire lake had been encroached upon.
Liquor and food will be costly in 2007 Saturday, December 30, 2006 | Pavan
Many hotels, clubs, bars, and even sweet shops charging excess Value Added Tax and pocketing the money.A sample study by the vigilance and enforcement department on 20 clubs, bar and restaurants and two popular sweet houses revealed evasion of Rs 2 crore in a year. This rule also applies for packaged food.The establishments should levy 12.5 per cent VAT on 60 per cent of the bill but are levying it on the full bill. Therefore, if the bill is for Rs 100, the customer has to pay VAT of Rs 7.50 on Rs 60 (12 per cent of 60 per cent of bill). In practice, he is being charged Rs 12.50 as VAT on the full Rs 100 bill. Also, bar and restaurants are including the cost of liquor in the food bill and levying 12.5 per cent VAT. This amounts to double taxation since the AP Beverages Corporation levies tax on liquor at the first sale point itself.
Chiranjeevi and Nag sold out their shares in MAA TV? Friday, December 29, 2006 | Pavan
Chiranjeevi and Nagarjuna have sold out their MAA TV shares to the Chairman of the TV himself. Both the heroes felt that their investment wouldn't be a profitable venture by putting in MAA TV. In fact, the name of Chiranjeevi wasn't out for quite a long time on usual terms. Initially they thought that it would be fruitful for them on financial grounds but later on they discovered the ins and outs of media channel and the pains those are to be undergone in various factors.
Seven Hills tops list of tourist arrivals in the country Friday, December 29, 2006 | Pavan
The countrys richest shrine, The Sri Venkateshwara Temple at Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh, is topping the tourism charts this holiday season. Pilgrims are flocking to get the Lords blessings as they bid goodbye to 2006 and welcome the new year. In this month, instead of Suprabatham, the Tirupavai is rendered. Vaikunta Ekadasi and the new year are all coming up, which means more pilgrims. We have made all the arrangements, said Balaramaiah, JEO, TTD. Clearly, it is thanks to the Lord of Seven Hills that Andhra Pradesh tops the list of tourist arrivals in the country.
SSC all students will have desks and chairs: Minister Friday, December 29, 2006 | Pavan
All students appearing for their SSC public examination scheduled on March, 2007 will have desks and chairs. School education minister N. Rajyalakshmi has claimed that funds have been released for the purchase of classroom furniture and no candidate would need to sit on the floor. The State government has released money in two installments. While some schools have already got the furniture, others will be getting them soon. However, the minister said that priority had been given to make furniture available for SSC candidates.Development of infrastructure and provision of furniture to other classes would be done in a phased manner, the minister said.
Government drops hydel power projects Friday, December 29, 2006 | Pavan
The irrigation departments attempt to palm off the financial onus of constructing new hydel power stations to APGenco has not succeeded. The State government had proposed four projects—120 MW Pulichintala project (on Krishna River), 960 MW Indira Sagar (Polavaram), 360 MW Rajiv Sagar (Dummugudem) project and 360 MW Singareddypalle project (on Godavari River).These are exclusively meant to provide power to operate 16 lift irrigation schemes. It is estimated that the four projects would together cost around Rs 7,900 crore. Originally, the irrigation department had decided to rope in private agencies for the construction of these projects and had called for open tenders. However, after exposure of irregularities in the tender process, it gave up its plans.The department then approached APGenco, which was willing to construct these projects. But the catch came when the irrigation department said that APGenco would have to raise its own funds to construct them. Irrigation officials argued that since APGenco was a State-owned company with a lot of creditworthiness, it could easily generate funds. This would be burdensome since the four hydel power projects would be used solely to run lift irrigation schemes and would not give any revenue, said an APGenco official.
Film Chamber demanded hike in ticket rates Friday, December 29, 2006 | Pavan
The Andhra Pradesh Film Chamber of Commerce has demanded a hike in cinema ticket rates to meet increased maintenance expenditure of theatres. A meeting of the chamber held last week at Tirupati discussed the issue and majority of the members favoured a hike in rates. We want a hike of at least Rs 5 per ticket, said a member of the chamber. It could also be higher. Most members of the chamber who took part in the meeting felt that at least 10 per cent hike was justifiable because of increased expenditure. The present ticket rates were fixed almost two years ago and a hike is justifiable, said film chamber president and noted exhibitor G. Vishwanath.
M.A.Basith is new DGP Thursday, December 28, 2006 | Pavan
Mr M.A. Basith, who is serving as principal secretary of the home department, will be the States new director general of police. He will replace Mr Swaranjit Sen, who is retiring from office on December 31.Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy cleared the appointment of Mr Basith and orders were issued. He will serve as DGP for 10 months.
Ramoji Rao file a writ petition Thursday, December 28, 2006 | Pavan
Media baron Ch. Ramoji Rao filed a writ petition in the AP High Court seeking quashing of two government orders and restraining the State government from taking action against Margadarsi Financiers. The government had issued GO Ms No. 800 and GO Ms No. 801 appointing adviser N. Rangachari to ascertain whether Margadarsi Financiers had collected deposits in violation of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, and if there was any reason to believe that the company was acting against the interests of the depositors.
Desamuduru coming on 12th January Wednesday, December 27, 2006 | Pavan
On behalf of Bharat Creations we would like to thank all the exhibitors for doing business with us. We wish all the exhibitors a A Happy New Year and wish good luck in the coming year in exhibiting the movies. The movie is releasing with a bang with 15 prints in overseas which is a history in Allu Arjuns movie Carrier. The movie is releasing on 12th Jan, 2007. The audio which is released on 25th of this month is creating a sensation among the audience. Newcomer Hansika Motwani is acting opposite to Allu Arjun in Desamuduru.
AICC rejects seperate Andhra state Wednesday, December 27, 2006 | Pavan
AICC general secretary and in-charge of Andhra Pradesh Digvijay Singh on rejected the demand for a separate Andhra State, and the announcement of a political outfit by a section of the Congress leaders. Mr Singh asserted that the second States Reorganisation Commission (SRC) alone can take a decision on such issues. Since the party has a policy of setting up of second SRC regarding the issue of smaller States, party leaders should not go to the media and air their views on this issue, Mr Singh said. Mr Singh took exception to the submitting of a memorandum by the Congress MLAs from Telangana to the Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy, asking him to expedite the process of speedy setting up of the second SRC.
47 kg of gold lotted from Narsaraopet rural bank Wednesday, December 27, 2006 | Pavan
A gang of robbers made away with 47 kg of gold ornaments worth Rs 4 crores from the Chaitanya Godavari Grameena bank of Narsaraopet in Guntur district. The incident came to light when the bank opened. The bank is located in the busy Mallamma Centre of the town and is surrounded by various gold shops. locals said not much activity was witnessed during the last three day due to holidays. The bank was closed for the last three days following weekend and Christmas.Bank messenger S. Venkateswarulu who came to the bank on Tuesday morning found the iron almirah in which the gold was kept cut open with gas cutters and immediately informed the matter to bank manager M. Seshakumar over phone. The bank manager in turn informed the matter to higher officials and the police.
Top 10 telugu albums Tuesday, December 26, 2006 | Pavan
Top Ten Telugu Albums This Week: 1. Rakhi 2. Maharadhi 3. Annavaram 4. Yogi 5. Sainikudu 6. Khatarnak 7. Mayabazar 8. Bhagyalakshmi Bumper Draw 9. Adilakshmi 10. Pellaina Kottalo
Rakhi songs top the chartbustes Tuesday, December 26, 2006 | Pavan
After long time, a NTR movie has got good audio. Rakhis music sales are encouraging and its songs top the chartbusters. Young music director Devi Sri Prasads music has nothing great to rave about but his tunes are worth a listen. That is a big win. According to a leading audio company, Rakhi..Rakhi..Na Kawasakhi., has struck the chord with the audiences. The mass song became a rage because of the novelty in the voices. The song was sung by actress Mamata Mohandas and Devisri Prasad.
Power crisis in Andhra Pradesh Tuesday, December 26, 2006 | Pavan
The State government may have to curtail supply of power to the farm sector because of the deepening power crisis. While energy minister Mohd Ali Shabber said that the farm sector may not get power for even seven hours a day, Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddys office assured that farmers would face no shortage of power. The perturbing fact is that power generation in the State has come down by 1,000 mw and this has widened the demand-supply gap. Mr Shabber said the State had been in the grip of a severe power crisis since December 11 with acute fall in production and unprecedented increase in consumption. The ongoing agricultural work in the Rabi season has further compounded the problem, he said. Though the State has a total installed power generation capacity of about 11,000 mw, only 10,000 mw is available at present, he pointed out.
Rambha acting as item girl in Desamuduru Tuesday, December 26, 2006 | Pavan
Rambha...,who acted with Megastar Chiranjeevi and all other heroes in Telugu film industry is acting as item girl for Allu Arjun movie Deasamuduru.... It was Mumaith Khan who scorched the screens with her item song in Puri Jagannadhs Pokiri. Now it is turn of Rambha to do the same in his new film, Desamuduru. Yes, Rambha is acting as item girl. The original thunder thighs babe is doing a sizzling item number with hero Allu Arjun.The song is currently being shot at Durgah at Nanakram Guda in Hyderabad.
AP government to allow new colleges Monday, December 25, 2006 | Pavan
The government will allow private colleges to offer the diploma in education (D.Ed) course which was earlier confined to State-run colleges, officials said. In all, 161 colleges are expected to offer D.Ed in the private sector. School education director S. Balasubramanyam said that the process to give approval had been set in motion. The government runs 23 D.Ed colleges, one in each district, offering nearly 3,000 seats.
Archbishop of Hyderabad Rev. Marampudi Joji greeted people on the Christmas eve. In his Christmas message, Rev. Joji said that lasting peace does not come by conquering new territories. Neither can peace be imposed nor thrust upon by power and control. �Peace can neither be bought with possessions and profits, nor can it be sought through pleasures and luxuries, he said.According to the Archbishop, true peace can only dawn upon us through love and justice. Peace dwells where there is genuine liberty, equality and fraternity. Justice and human rights are the minimum of love. Mercy and forgiveness is the maximum of love. Unless we ensure this minimum and generously bestow the maximum, abiding and joyous peace cannot exist, he said.
Rakhi released at Minneapolis, Boston, Fremont and Chicago Sunday, December 24, 2006 | Pavan
Junior NTR's Rakhi released at the below theatres: Theatre name: Location:: Address BROOKDALE 8 CINEMA: Minneapolis:: 5810 Shingle Creek pkwy Brooklyn Center,MN-55430 Capitol Theatre: Boston:: 204 Massachusetts Ave, Arlington, MA 02474 Park Theatre: Fremont:: 37411 Fremont Blvd, Fremont, CA 94536 Desplaines Theaters: Chicago:: 1476 Miner St, Desplaines, IL – 60016
Scootorists removing helmets for Pawan Kalyan's Annavaram Sunday, December 24, 2006 | Pavan
Big screen is the best bet for advertising any product. Filmmakers have learnt that and are now showing trailers of these films on big screen and here we are not talking of the theatre. The MCHs latest addition to the city—digital hoardings—are now showing trailers of Pawan Kalyans latest, Annavaram. This of course is causing distraction to motorists, who manage to keep an eye on the road as well as on the hoardings that seem to scream for their attention. Producers and distributors are hoping that these trailers will at least prompt fans to come to the theatres. But we wonder what the traffic police has to say about all this.
Rakhi receiving negative feedback Sunday, December 24, 2006 | Pavan
Box office is upset with NTR Rakhi... NTRs appearance in Rakhi has been receiving negative feedback in a big way. Some say that he is looking like his father Hari Krishna. Others say that he is bulkier and looking like Chandra Mohan. Some others are commenting his hair style. It is really right time for NTR to correct his appearance.During the release of Ashok, he was pointed out the same by public and fans and he said that he was reducing shortly. But he added few more kilos for Rakhi.
Hyderabad police plans more passport verification counters Sunday, December 24, 2006 | Pavan
Police is planning to open counters at the office of the Hyderabad city commissioner here to speed up the verification of passport applicants. In all, five counters will be set up for the north, south, east, west and central police zones of the city. These special counters are likely to start functioning from next month (January 2007).Commissioner of police Ajit K. Mohanty said that this would help save at least 15 days in the verification process. At present, police verification of the antecedents of passport applicants takes about 30 days and this can cause much inconvenience. There have also been occasional complaints of corruption.
Congress MP Vundavalli Aruna Kumar turned his ire at Mr N. Ram, editor-in-chief of The Hindu, for his support to media baron Ramoji Rao on the issue of Margadarsi Financiers. Mr Kumar challenged Mr Ram to a public debate in Chennai on Margadarsi Financiers. Mr Kumar said that he would prove that Mr Rao had been doing business illegally through Margadarsi Financiers.Mr Rao has been running Margadarsi Financiers without approval of or licence from the Reserve Bank of India. His website does not mention Margadarsi Financiers in the list of Ramoji Group of Companies. People are being duped to make deposits with Margadarsi Financiers through Margadarsi Chits, the Congress MP said. Mr Kumar said that his attack on Margadarsi Financiers should not be construed as an attack on the Telugu daily Eenadu or the television channel ETV.
Rahejas Corporation in Andhra Assembly Saturday, December 23, 2006 | Pavan
The government stated that about 110 acres of land at Madhapur vested with the AP Industrial Infrastructure Corporation has been allotted to K. Raheja Corporation (KRC) at Rs 50 lakh per acre. In a written reply to Mr P. Janardana Reddy, IT minister Sabita Reddy said as per the 2003 agreement, the project would be executed through a joint venture with APIIC and KRC. The land cost was set off by allowing rebate on land cost calculated at Rs 20,000 per job created.
BJP Kishan Reddy withdrew his resignation Saturday, December 23, 2006 | Pavan
BJP legislator G. Kishan Reddy withdrew his resignation after meeting Speaker K.R. Suresh Reddy. Mr Kishan Reddy had submitted his resignation on Thurday following some comments made by the Speaker. The Speaker had rejected the resignation on Thursday. On Friday, Mr Kishan Reddy said he had discussed the issue with the Speaker on the advise of his well-wishers and leaders of other political parties.
IIT in Sangareddy: YSR Wednesday, December 20, 2006 | Pavan
The Indian Institute of Technology promised to the State will come up in Medak and not in Basar as proposed by the earlier State government. However, the Centre wants 500-600 acres of land free of cost with adequate infrastructure, including road, rail and air connectivity, to set up the IIT. Officials have zeroed in on Isnapur village near Patancheru as an ideal location, since it is close to Hyderabad and near the proposed Outer Ring Road.However, the government would have to spend at least Rs 3,000 crore to acquire land in the area, which is witnessing a real estate boom. It owns only 30 acres of rocky terrain in the chosen locale at present. Since the ORR project was announced, land is selling at Rs 6 to 8 crores per acre in this area.
18,000 hajis in trouble at Mecca Wednesday, December 20, 2006 | Pavan
About 18,000 Indian hajis have been put to inconvenience in the Islamic holy city of Mecca with the Central Haj Committee denying them accommodation as promised. The hajis, who opted for Category-A accommodation, were given buildings at Sheesha about three to four km away from the Grand Mosque in Mecca. The cost of Category-A ac-commodation is Rs 89,000 and for stay at Sheesha costs only Rs 69,000. The Indian hajis on Monday held a demonstration in the holy city demanding accommodation as promised since stay at Sheesha will make it difficult for them to walk to the Grand Mosque for prayers five times a day.
Government appointed commission of enquiry on Poppalguda Wednesday, December 20, 2006 | Pavan
The State government has appo-inted retired High Court judge Justice Vamana Rao as commission of inquiry to probe into alleged irregularities in the withdrawal of land acquisition notices by Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (APIIC) in Poppalguda in city outskirts.The commission will also probe into Hyderabad Urb-an Development Authority’s decision to exclude Kondapur from Cyberabad Development Authority. Chief secretary J. Harinarayana issued a GO in this regard on Monday. The commission was set up following Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy’s assurance to Assembly. The Opposition alleged that the government dropped acquisition after some influential people purchased lands in Poppalguda.
APPSC Group I results announced Tuesday, December 19, 2006 | Pavan
The Andhra Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) on Monday announced the Group-I final results and selection of 552 candidates to various categories. The posts to be filled include deputy collectors, commercial tax officers, deputy superintendent of police, regional transport officers, district registrars and mandal parishad development officers. The commission said with this results, the recruitment process, which started two years ago, has been completed. The commission said it is likely to issue another notification for Group-I in next year.
Eamcet-2007 on May 4th Tuesday, December 19, 2006 | Pavan
The entrance test for admission into engineering, agriculture and medicine, Eamcet 2007 will be held on May 4. Announcing the dates for different tests here on Monday, AP State Council of Higher Education chairman K.C. Reddy said two committees were looking into issues like introducing negative marks in Eamcet and placing OMR sheet in the internet for more transparency.Mr Reddy said Icet for admission into MBA and MCA courses would be held on May 12, Lawcet for admission into the three- and five-year law courses on May 27 and Ecet for lateral admission into engineering for polytechnic students will be held on May 17. The dates for Edcet for admission into BEd course is yet to be announced.
Reliance gas supply may be delayed Tuesday, December 19, 2006 | Pavan
The gas supply from Reliance is likely to be delayed further. It is now learnt that the company will start commercial production from the Krishna-Godavari basin only by mid-2009 and not by early 2008 as it had promised earlier. This spells trouble for the State, which was planning to use Reliance gas to meet the increasing demand for power. Demand for electricity has been growing by about 20 per cent in the State every year.With the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd (ONGC) stopping explorations in the Krishna-Godavari basin, new independent power producers (IPPs) have no option but to depend on either Reliance or Gujarat Gas Corporation for gas supply. Experts have cautioned that the price of gas is also likely to jump up to $6 per Million British thermal units (MMBtu) which is higher than the international price of $4.5. ONGC was charging only $ 3.3 per MMBtu.
Banks should help farmers: RBI Governor Sunday, December 17, 2006 | Pavan
Commercialisation of agriculture is the need of the hour but it invites greater risk at present, Reserve Bank of India Governor Y.V. Reddy said here on Saturday. Dr Reddy said banks have a role to play in the smooth transition from traditional cultivation. He was delivering the first Smarajit Ray memorial lecture here on Saturday. Ray, a former principal secretary, was a pioneer in rural development and self-help groups.
Haj: Indian consulate warned pilgrims Sunday, December 17, 2006 | Pavan
With instances of theft on the rise in Mecca and Madina during Haj, the Indian consulate in Jeddah has warned Indian pilgrims to be cautious while performing the pilgrimage. In its dos and donts, the Indian consulate has said that Indian pilgrims should keep a close watch on their belongings in view of the spurt in theft cases. A number of pilgrims have been cheated by confidence tricksters who gain their confidence and take money from them on the pretext of buying things at cheaper rates. People have been tricked into parting with money for the sacrifice that is supposed to be done after Haj at Mina on the 10th of Zul Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic calendar. Theft from pilgrims is on the increase hence all precautions should be taken, the consulate cautioned.
Prasad Imax theatre may get exemption Sunday, December 17, 2006 | Pavan
The State government will request the Supreme Court to retain the controversial Prasads Imax theatre and a few other projects along the Hussain Sagar Lake. A special committee appointed by the Supreme Court had pointed out that all these constructions were encroaching and polluting the lake-bed.A high-level meeting chaired by chief secretary J. Harinarayana discussed the issue as a prelude to filing a counter in the Supreme Court. The government granted permission for construction of the Prasads Imax theatre and other projects around the lake as a part of tourism initiative, said a source. We have to defend our decision and seek certain modifications in the recommendations made by Supreme Court panel.
Hyderabad tourist places may be on Unesco list Saturday, December 16, 2006 | Pavan
The Centre has in principle accepted the State governments plea to recommend the Qutb Shahi tombs, Golconda Fort and Charminar for inclusion in the Unescos heritage monuments list. The government will send a dossier on the three sites to the Centre, school education and archives minister N. Rajyalakshmi told the Assembly. We have also sent a proposal to declare Hyderabad as a heritage city but there are some technical problems,she said.She told Congress legislator D. Sridhar that there were 28 heritage monuments in the country but none of them had got Unesco recognition. The Centre has provided Rs 51 crore to develop monuments in the State.
Court stays Gandhi Medical College demolition Saturday, December 16, 2006 | Pavan
A division bench of the AP High Court comprising Chief Justice G.S. Singhvi and Justice C.V. Nagarjuna Reddy stayed the demolition of the Gandhi Medical College building at Basheerbagh in Hyderabad till December 22. The bench passed the order on a letter written by Mr D.T. Vinod Kumar, chairman Of Indian Institutes of Architects, AP.Chapter, stating that the buildings listed as heritage structures were being demolished.The bench issued notices to the MCH, Huda, Tourism department, AP Tourism Development Corporation, GSG Builders and the Hyderabad collector and directed them to file their affidavits by December 22. The bench also asked petitioner Vinod Kumar to appear before the court to assist the court.
Lot of inconvenience at Begumpet Airport Friday, December 15, 2006 | Pavan
Traffic signals and unruly processions have become the order of the day near the Hyderabad Airport causing lot of inconvenience to passengers rushing to catch their flights. Sometimes they have to hop out of their cars and trot a long distance with heavy baggage to reach the airport on time. Frequent traffic jams in the Punjagutta-Ameerpet-Begumpet route have also been blamed on the continuing work on the flyover in that route. Processions further complicate matters. Many air passengers faced hardship on Wednesday when supporters of former MLA Krishna Yadav trooped to the airport to welcome him.
Parliament was informed on Thursday that around 300 government houses in New Delhi, including the Telangana Rashtra Samiti chief K. Chandrasekhar Raos 23 Tughlak Road residence and residence of late Union minister Sunil Dutt, had been put on the list of illegally-occupied government quarters. The TRS chiefs residence figures in the list of 298 quarters illegally occupied despite the retirement/death of allottees. Mr Rao had resigned from the Union Cabinet in August this year.
Police lathi charge on students Thursday, December 14, 2006 | Pavan
Fifteen students and 11 policemen were injured when police lathicharged students who were proceeding towards the State Assembly on Wednesday.About 15,000 students responded to a Chalo Assembly call given by the Students Federation of India (SFI). They were demanding hike in scholarships and mess charges, and a halt to outsourcing in the hostels. They demanded that social welfare minister G. Vinod meet them and give an assurance for their demands. The students gathered at the Narayanguda flyover and began moving towards the Assembly, in violation of prohibitory orders. Police stopped them at Venkatesh talkies and the activists sat on the road.
YSR government in crises Thursday, December 14, 2006 | Pavan
The government and opposition parties indulged in a slanging match on Wednesday over the surrender of 618 acres of land by Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy. While minister N. Raghuveera Reddy (agriculture), Dharamana Prasada Rao (revenue) defended the Chief Minister and asked others to follow suit, Leader of the Opposition N. Chandrababu Naidu demanded the immediate resignation of Dr Rajasekhar Reddy for concealing his excess land, which was punishable under the Land Reforms Act. Mr Naidu alleged that the Chief Minister was still in possession of large extents of land in other parts of Kadapa district.
Jana Reddy unhappy with CM on Margadarsi? Wednesday, December 13, 2006 | Pavan
Home Minister K Jana Reddy is personally unhappy with the way Chief Minister Dr Y S Rajasekhar Reddy is hounding Eenadu group chairman Ramoji Rao in Margadarsi episode. According to sources Jana has been a close follower of Ramoji Rao right from his Telugu Desam days and before the Mardarsi issue came to the fore, he used to frequently go to Ramoji Film City. On the other hand, Eenadu, too, had always shown soft corner towards Jana Reddy, while pulling up every other minister on corruption.
Abdul Karim Telgi surprised: Krishna Yadav Wednesday, December 13, 2006 | Pavan
Former minister C. Krishna Yadav claimed that his first meeting with multi-crore fake stamp papers scamster Abdul Karim Telgi at the Pune court was a surprising one. Abdul Karim Telgi was surprised to see me in the court. I saw him for the first time in my life on the court premises, revealed Krishna Yadav.Talking about his days in jail Krishna Yadav pleaded innocence and said, Telgi told me How have you been in this when you are not involved. Yadav said he was not guilty of any crime in Maharashtra. I didnt know that I would be arrested till I landed in Pune. I was told that they would be asking me some information. I came to know about Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act only after two months of my arrest. Why would an Additional SP rank official come here for me if there was no conspiracy, said Yadav.
Will TDP come together with left parties? Tuesday, December 12, 2006 | Pavan
The Telugu Desam for the first time joined the ranks of the Left-led front after pulling out of the NDA. The Left parties, and the TD, Samajwadi Party and Lok Janshakti Party, in a new camaraderie, clearly signalled the coming together of the non-Congress and non-BJP parties. The occasion was to jointly attack BJP for targeting Speaker Somnath Chatterjee, repeatedly disrupting Parliament. Significantly, it was the coming together of these parties, which gave it the colour and contours of an emergent Third Front.
Sainikudu: Dimma tirigi mind block avutundi Monday, December 11, 2006 | Pavan
Net savvies are aware of pranks on Mahesh's Sainikudu. This movie is turning upside down, the jokes are hitting the emails and discussion boards on the film. A message says, Ye Cinema Chuste Dimma Thirigi Mind Block Avutundo adey Sainikudu. Gun Chudalanuko- tappu ledu, kani sainikudu chudalanukoku chachipotav, sainikudu champadu chavuni parichayam chestadu. It is needless to say that the above message is derived from the dialogues of Pokiri and Sainikudu.
Chiranjeevi politica entry : Allu Arvind ruled out the possibility Monday, December 11, 2006 | Pavan
Chiranjeevi and his entry politics news sensationalised Sunday. ETV2 and TV9 -- started scrolling the sentences since morning that Chiranjeevi is contemplating entering into politics and is floating a political party to sensationalise a non-issue has caused embarassment not only to megastar Chiranjeevi, but also to the entire media in Hyderabad on Sunday. Carried away by the reports for two consecutive days in Andhra Jyothi daily on Chiranjeevi's arangetram (entry) into politics, two Television channels -- ETV2 and TV9 -- started scrolling the sentences since morning that Chiranjeevi is contemplating entering into politics and is floating a political party. The channels have a wider reach than newspapers these days and within minutes, it spread like a wild fire. Telephones in the film hero's residence started ringing, and political leaders started calling to confirm the news. Chiranjeevi was out of station and his family members were put to a lot of embarrassment, as he had no such plans. Obviously to prevent further damage,Chiranjeevis brother-in-law and film producer Allu Aravind invited representatives of ETV and TV9 to give a rejoinder on the news at 4 pm. He, however, did not tell that he was giving a rejoinder. This led to the channels presuming that Chiranjeevi was making an announcement on the new political party. By evening, Large number of media persons of electronic and print media of national and vernacular channels and newspapers gathered in front of Aravinds Jubilee Hills residence causing a further embarrassment to him. The two TV channels even arranged a live coverage of the sensational announcement. But Allu Aravind and others ruled out the possibility of floating a new party and asked them not to telecast news for the sake of sensation.
New rail corridor coming up between Begumpet and Samshabad Airports? Monday, December 11, 2006 | Pavan
Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy has given his? principle consent� to a dedicated modern rail corridor between the Begumpet airport and the new international airport coming up at Shamshabad.According to sources the 30-km corridor can take airline passengers and airport workers from Begumpet to Shamshabad in 20 minutes. The proposal also includes check-in counters at the Begumpet airport and Hitec City for passengers who need to catch flights at Shamshabad airport. Dr Reddy was told that about 12 million passengers and their relatives will benefit from this rail corridor annually besides hundreds of airport employees.
HUDA wants Rs.1200 crores Monday, December 11, 2006 | Pavan
The Hyderabad Urban Development Authority (Huda) began looking for lands and funds for the Rs 1,250 crore rehabilitation package announced for Outer Ring Road (ORR) oustees even as the Metro Land Losers� Association on Sunday decided to oppose the package.The association which met on Sunday opposed the package and said that it will resist forcible implementation of the package without consulting farmers. The association has scheduled a meeting today with farmers who lost their land.�We demand that the government provide land for land. Otherwise compensation has to be paid on market value. We will press the government pass a resolution against the package on Tuesday,� said committee president D.G. Narsimha Rao.Huda meanwhile requires at least 700 acres of land for land compensation apart from mobilising Rs 210 crore for the development of that area.
OU has served a notice on Sultan Ul Uloom Friday, December 8, 2006 | Pavan
Osmania University (OU) has served a notice on Sultan-ul-Uloom Education Society asking it to submit land documents based on which it will renew the affiliation for the Muffakham Jah Engineering College. Sources told this correspondent that the notice was served after the Academic Senate, the second highest decision-making body in the OU after the Executive Council, directed the university administration to keep a record of land documents of affiliated institutions.
TRS victory may check real estate boom Friday, December 8, 2006 | Pavan
The Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) victory in Karimnagar may check the unprecedented real estate boom in the city and surroundings. Officials are expecting the TRS victory to trigger a fall in prices of land in Hyderabad and suburbs. Even if that does not happen, the rise in land prices will not continue as before. But those dabbling in real estate feel that the rates may stabilise but will not plummet immediately. They are sure that the days of artificial price escalation are over. On the other hand, rates of lands and apartments may continue to increase in areas which have genuine real estate potential.
Manoj Kumar new film shooting started Thursday, December 7, 2006 | Pavan
Manchu Manoj Kumars new film started in Ramanaidu studios. The film is being made on the banner of Lakshmi Prasanna Pictures as its 47th venture. Surya Kiran is the director of the film and the heroine is yet to be confirmed. Mohan Babu said that he was impressed by Surya Kiran after watching his Satyam and hence the opportunity to direct this film is given to him.The film is remake to Tamil flick Chittiram Pesudadi.The shooting of the film is going to last in January and February and the release is scheduled for this summer.
TRS wins in Karimangar: Congress wins in Bobbili Thursday, December 7, 2006 | Pavan
Karimnagar- TRS won with 2,01,587 votes majority,Bobbili-Jhansi won with 157 votes majority. Comments on Karimnagar elections: YSRajasekhar Reddy: This is not a anti government vote. KCR: This is a verdict on Telangana state. Jeevan Reddy: We lost the seat because of beedi issue. While TDP is demanding for recounting, Congress is demanding for quick official announcement. Till now the official announcement at Bobbili hasn't come out in terms of majority. As the difference if very less, TDP is hopeful of winning. Now, the officials have started re-totalling and Chandrababu demanded to start re-counting but not re-totalling and announce the result of every place again meticulously. But the concern authorities did not agree for Chandrababu's demand and re-totalling is going on now.
Ghantasala is unforgettable part of my life: ANR Wednesday, December 6, 2006 | Pavan
Ghantasala anniversary was held at Ravindra Bharathi, Hyderabad where Dr Akkineni Nageswara Rao made his presence as the Chief Guest of the occasion. Dharmavarapu Subrahmanyam took key part in the event as Chairman of Cultural Council, AP. Rallabandi Kavitha Prasad, the Secretary, Department of Culture presided the event. Addressing the public Dr.ANR said, 50 percent of my professional success is credited to Ghantasala who had lend his voice for hundreds of songs pictured on me. I feel I am here today because of Ghantasala. I am not saying this to get your claps and whistles. This is the feel gushing out from my inner heart. Ghantasala is unforgettable part of my professional life.
Children serious in Niloufer Hospital Wednesday, December 6, 2006 | Pavan
The blood bank at Niloufer Hospital, the referral hospital for seriously ill children, has not been in operation for eight months. Children needing blood have to buy blood from nearby private blood banks. Non-availability of blood is cited as one of the reasons for the increasing mortality rate at the hospital. Niloufer is among the State-run hospitals that have not renewed their blood bank licence, as reported in these columns on November 30.Niloufer records show that the hospital took 32,090 children as in-patients and treated another 1.43 lakh children as out-patients till November this year. Medical education director I.V. Rao said, The Drug Control Administration has said that the licence renewal application has gone to the Central agency at Delhi and they are waiting for approval.
PM Manmohan in Hyderabad Tuesday, December 5, 2006 | Pavan
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh arrived in the Hyderabad city on Monday night to participate in functions at the Administrative Staff College of India and the Indian School of Business here on Tuesday. The IAF aircraft carrying Dr Singh landed at Begumpet airport at 10.20 pm. Dr Singh was received by Governor Rameshwar Thakur, Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy, Union minister S. Jaipal Reddy among others. He drove to Raj Bhavan where he will stay for the night.
HC asks Vizakha Municipal Corporation to file report on illegal constructions Tuesday, December 5, 2006 | Pavan
A division bench of the AP High Court on Monday directed the commissioner, Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (VMC), to file a report indicating whether any illegal constructions are being built there. The court wanted to know whether or not authorities had taken any action against such constructions. The court asked for the report in two weeks. The bench also directed the Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority and the VMC to their counters within two weeks.The bench passed the orders on a letter written by the People of Visakhapatnam, complaining of illegal constructions in Vishakapatnam and inaction of the authorities in controlling the same.
Navy Day celebrations held at Hyderabad Tuesday, December 5, 2006 | Pavan
As many as 33 indigenous warships and submarines are being built to strengthen the Indian Navy fleet. Speaking to reporters on the occasion of Navy Day reception a Hyderabad, Station Commander (Navy) and director of Defence Machinery Design Establishment Rear Admiral H.S. Malhi said, At present 33 ships and submarines are on order at various shipyards. Project 17 alpha standard frigate, a stealthy multi-role surface combatant, and project 15 alpha are being developed at Mazagon Docks Limited (MDL) in Mumbai. Andhra Pradesh High Court Chief Justice G.S. Singhvi was the chief guest at Navy Day celebrations, which mark the Indian Navys success in Karachi during the 1971 Indo-Pakistan war.
Sample survey: KCR will win in Karimnagar? Monday, December 4, 2006 | Pavan
Polling started in Karimnagar and Bobbili Parliamentary constituencies today morning peacefully. No major accidents occured in these centers.Who will win in Karimnagar byelections? If one were to by the survey undertaken by former Congress MLA and veteran leader Jagapathi Rao, Telangana Rashtra Samithi president K Chandrasekhar Rao will emerge victorius. Jagapathi Rao, who owns a college in his Choppadandi constituency in Karimnagar district, conducted a sample survey in the constituency through the students of his college. And the results were surprising to himself: 50 per cent of the voters preferred to vote for the TRS candidate, while the Congress got the support from 30 per cent of voters and the Telugu Desam got about 21 per cent.
India is ready to destroy hostile missiles: Dr.V.K.Saraswat Monday, December 4, 2006 | Pavan
India has become the fourth nation after the United States, Russia and Israel to have a ballistic missile defence technology with successful testing of Air Defence Target-2 a week ago. The weapon system radar picked up the target and missile had intercepted the target (intermediate range ballistic missile) successfully at an altitude of 50 km near Chandipur in Orissa on November 27. With the success, India got the ability to develop a complete suite of air defence missiles to destroy all types of hostile missiles. Dr V.K. Saraswat, chief controller of research and development and program-me director of air defence, said on Sunday that six to seven trials would be held to crystallise the result and the defence missiles would be ready in a couple of years for its induction into Army. To evaluate the integrated functionality of weapon system elements and software, air defence (AD) Target-3 was test-fired electronically on November 19 and actual test was held a week later, he told mediapersons in Hyderabad. The terminal guidance and control performed flawlessly. All the mission events took place as expected and the missile intercepted the target successfully, he said.
I am happy for market raise in USA: Mahesh Babu Sunday, December 3, 2006 | Pavan
About 600 fans awaited Mahesh Babu from 6 PM and the star arrived at 8:30 PM to watch Sainikudu in Park Theatre. Aswini Dutt, Guna Sekhar, Harris Jayaraj and Tamil star Simbhu have come along with Mahesh Babu to watch the film. Majority of Maheshs fans who came to watch the films happened to be female audiences and kids. Mahesh Babu said, I feel I am in AP although it is USA. I am happy for my market raise in USA. I extend my thanks for the encouragement given to me by you all. I feel like coming here for every release of my film. Audiences clapped for these words of Mahesh Babu.
India International Travel Mart begins Sunday, December 3, 2006 | Pavan
The three-day India International Travel Mart was inaugurated with travel personnel hawking holidays at Colombo, sight-seeing in Iran among others. Besides players involved in the tourism trade in India, a delegation from Iran Tourism Ministry put up its stall and offered special packages. This is the second time that Iran is participating in the event.The Sri Lankan holidays stall was crowded with people inquiring about special packages and offers. Over 80 agencies are participating in the event. Some offered instalment facility for payment under special packages. Tourism secretary Chitra Ramachandran inaugurated the event. IITM director Rohit Hangal announced that the Outbound Travel Road Show would to be held from January 15 to 23 in Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai and Delhi.
Government decided not to implement pictorial signs on bidi: Panabaka Sunday, December 3, 2006 | Pavan
Union minister of State for health and family welfare Panabaka Lakshmi said her Ministry had decided not to implement the controversial notification on display of pictorial signs on bidi packets from the scheduled February 1. Speaking to media, the Union minister said that the Union ministry for health and family welfare had decided to set up an experts committee to discuss the issue with the representatives of bidi workers.
More than half dont pay for water in Hyderabad Sunday, December 3, 2006 | Pavan
Nearly half the water consumers in Hyderabad city do not pay for their drinking water supplied by the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWS&SB) in the twin cities.The Water Board collected Rs 21.18 crore towards monthly water bills for November 2006, with 2.15 lakh consumers paying up. This is a record figure, and so many consumers had never paid for their water before. The board has 5.15 lakh consumers.Even consumers from upmarket areas of Jubilee Hills and Banjara Hills have not paid water bills, sources said. These areas under Division 6 have 61.012 connections but only 27,116 consumers paid up. There are 48,295 consumers in Division 7 in Secunderabad area of whom 20,289 paid their bills. In Divisions 1 and 2 covering old city areas, 85 per cent of the consumers did not pay their bills.
Dasari going to produce 3 films Saturday, December 2, 2006 | Pavan
Dasari Narayana Rao has been going along with filmy wind from quite a long time. He, being a central minister should abstain from film making and hence he shortly going to produce three films with others names. MS Narayana is going to direct a film while the other two are yet to be declared. It is being opined by majority that Dasari Narayana Rao has been putting the earnings he made from coal mines into films.
KSPL expects competition in the near future Saturday, December 2, 2006 | Pavan
The State government is set strike a deal with Kakinada Sea Ports Limited KSPL) to enable Reliance Industries to construct a berth for its operations at the Kakinada deep water port. A compromise formula has been initiated at the behest of the KSPL. The KSPL wants to foreclose its contract with the government as it expects stiff competition from Krishnapatnam and Gangavaram ports in the near future.
Finance Ministry asked Margadarsi not to accept deposits Saturday, December 2, 2006 | Pavan
The Union finance ministry asked Margadarsi Financiers not to accept any fresh deposits or renew matured deposits. In addition the finance firm was told to pay back deposits as and when they mature. Terming Margadarsi Financiers as an unincorporated body, the finance ministry said that any unincorporated body cannot take deposits from the general public. An unincorporated body includes entities under the Hindu Undivided Family, (HUF) and in prior regulations the government has prohibited HUFs from accepting public deposits. Margadarsi Financiers has been shown to be a HUF. The ministry clarified that non-payment of matured deposits amounts to violation of law and could attract the provisions of the Andhra Pradesh Protection or Depositors of Financial Establishments Act 1999.
Hell or Helmet: Heavy penalties for traffic offences Friday, December 1, 2006 | Pavan
The State transport department issued orders for the implementation of helmet and seat belt rule all over the State from December 1. The government has emp-owered all sub-inspectors of police to fine violators via government order No. 242. So far, only sub-inspectors in Hyderabad, Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam had the powers. Motor vehicle inspectors and assistant motor vehicle inspectors of the transport department were asked to work with police sub inspectors to enforce rules. The penalities ordered are: No helmet (two wheeler riders): Rs 100; No seat belts (car drivers): Rs 100; speeding: Rs 100; driving without licence: Rs 300; driving heavy vehicles without licence: Rs 500.
Irregularities in Setwin Friday, December 1, 2006 | Pavan
Audit of the accounts of the government-owned Setwin (Society for Employment Promotion and Training in Twin Cities) has revealed major irregularities, misuse of funds and fudged bills to the tune of Rs 3 crores, sources in government told this correspondent. The audit was conducted after a gap of 16 years. The society was set up to provide employment opportunities to unemployed youth in the city. In the first phase, the audit covered the period 1999 to 2006; the books for the eight years before that period are with the CB-CID which is probing fraud in Setwin. A private chartered accountant firm was hired to conduct the audit on the directions of Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy following a request from Setwin chairman M.A. Khan.
