Malaysian gangs involved in star tortoise case Friday, September 29, 2006 | Pavan
Its dazzling carapace and peculiar gait has made the Indian star tortoise a craze among pet keepers with dollars to spare.Sadly, this newfound fondness of the elite may drive the animal to extinction in its choice haunts, including the forest lands of Andhra Pradesh. Jam-packed in suitcases and hidden in cardboard boxes, these elegant amphibians are now being smuggled in hordes to Southeast Asian countries through Chennai and Bangladesh. Local gangs from Chittoor, Kadapa and Nellore are involved in this massive and relentless smuggling operation with the help of Malaysia-based gangs. Some shipments are sent through Chennai airport and others slip the animals through porous borders of Bangladesh via Kolkata. These star tortoises earn a good price in the pet markets of Malaysia, Bangkok and have even surfaced recently in some parts of the United States.
Government adds Outer Ring Road issue to CBI Friday, September 29, 2006 | Pavan
In a twist to the CBI inquiry into the alleged scandal in the alignment of the Outer Ring Road (ORR), the State government included the new international airport at Shamshabad into the ambit of the probe. Several senior Telugu Desam leaders including politburo member T. Devender Goud reportedly hold vast extents of land around Shamshabad airport. This is reportedly done to put the main Opposition Telugu Desam, which has been leading the protests over the ORR realignment, in the dock. The TD has taken the issue to court. Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy had announced a CBI inquiry and a judicial probe into the alleged scandal.The government on Thursday sent a formal letter to the Centre with the terms of reference for the probe. Chief secretary J. Harinarayana in a letter to L.K. Joshi, secretary, department of personnel and training, government of India, requested for institution of a CBI probe in the ORR deal.
Baby handed over to the biological mother Thursday, September 28, 2006 | Pavan
After 16 months, Baby Nikita was reunited with her mother Nazia Banu on Wednesday. While Nazia’s eyes went moist with joy at getting back her baby, there were tears in the eyes of Bikshapati and Swaroopa, foster parents of the child. It was on the orders of the State Women’s Commission chairperson Mary Ravindranath that the 22-month-old baby was handed over to the biological mother by the foster parents. Nikita was abandoned at S.R. Nagar about 16 months ago by Nazia, who was mentally ill. S.R. Nagar police rescued the baby and handed her over to Bhikshapati and Swaroopa, who looked after her as their own. The police took much flak for not handing over the abandoned baby to Sisu Vihar.
Three state meeting on Polavaram on October 4 Thursday, September 28, 2006 | Pavan
Despite objections from Dr Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy, the Union water resources ministry has convened a meeting on October 4 between the Chief Ministers of AP, Orissa and Chhattisgarh to discuss the Polavaram project. Orissa and Chhattisgarh have objected to the increase in the probable maximum flood (PMF) discharge at Polavaram. The governments say that more areas in their States will be submerged because of the increased PMF. The State has secured permission from the Central Water Commission (CWC) to increase the PMF. The Polavaram dam was designed for a PMF of 36 lakh cusecs: This figure was recorded in 1986 and is the highest in the river Godavari in 500 years. Environmental activists immediately questioned whether the 36 lakh cusecs PMF would be valid in case of heavy rains simultaneously in the catchment are-as of the Godavari, Sabari and the Pranahita rivers.
Two telugu films lost at Oscar Race Wednesday, September 27, 2006 | Pavan
Gunnam Gangaraju's 'Amma Cheppindi' was also sent for Oscar Race but that barred in initial stage itself. Another regional film Bhook also lost in the game along with 'Amma Cheppindi' in first stage. It's banged news that 'Rang De Basanti' is going for Oscars this year. Film Federation of India short listed 'Rang De Basanthi'. But there are mixed opinions on these selections as many are feeling that either 'Omkara' or 'Dor' might have nominated.
Namitha to act in English movie Wednesday, September 27, 2006 | Pavan
Namitha is hitting the Kannada screen with the film 'Neelakanta'. Well, the film is not going to show Namitha in gorgeous outfits and high dose exposing. Namitha says that it is the first film that is showing her beyond glamour. She says that the film would unleash her acting talent and proves that Namitha can not only expose but can also act. The interesting aspect is that the film is going to groove in Ravichandran in the lead, whose films portray heroines as sex bombs. But Namitha says that will not bother her. On the other hand she is also acting in an English film directed by an American director. And the title of the film is 'Maya'. Namitha is going to be glamorous in this English flick.
Hyderabad doctor arrested Wednesday, September 27, 2006 | Pavan
A doctor was arrested by Shah Ali Banda police on the charges of exchanging fake currency notes at Sha Ghouse Hotel in Syed Ali Chabutara. The arrested was identified as Dr Sami Hussain of Medilife hospital in Moghalpura. Sub-inspector G. Balraj, who is investigating the case, said, "Dr Sami came to the hotel and gave Rs 100 note to the boy at the counter after buying haleem. Our constable Damodar, who was on duty at the spot, grew suspicious over the doctor and brought him to the police station. When we frisked him 25 fake currency notes were also found at his possession." The doctor reportedly told police that he collected the money from the hospital counter.
World Tourism Day: Golkonda Fort is center of attraction for Telugu films Wednesday, September 27, 2006 | Pavan
The historic Golconda Fort is paying heavily for being a good backdrop for songs and fights. Indiscriminate use of its premises for film shooting is causing much damage to the fort which is trying to get into the Unesco list of world heritage sites.Constant presence of stars and their hangers-on also prevents visitors from savouring the real historic value of the fort.Though cinema units enter the fort after getting permission from the Archaeological Survey of India, they seldom follow the rules laid down for its protection. Heavy vehicles casually enter the premises with loads of material and shooting equipment is lugged into the fortress indiscriminately. Walls of the fort have developed cracks thanks to the high-decibel noise of trucks and generators.
YSR order CBI enquiry on Outer Ring Road Wednesday, September 27, 2006 | Pavan
Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy ordered a CBI enquiry and a judicial probe by a retired judge of the AP High Court on the alleged scam in alignment of the the Outer Ring Road. Speaking to mediapersons, the Chief Minister said the terms of references for the CBI inquiry and the judicial inquiry would be announced later. The inquiry and probe will examine who stood to benefit from the ORR realignment, and which political party they belonged to, he said. The order came hours after his relative Y.V. Subba Reddy muddied the waters further by alleging that the Telugu Desam was resorting to 'caste attacks' to embarrass the Congress government. Mr Subba Reddy said that most names being mentioned by the TD belonged to one caste, though people from other castes too were allegedly involved in the scam.
BJP president had called me: KCR Tuesday, September 26, 2006 | Pavan
In a surprise ambush, TRS president K. Chandrasekhar Rao declared that the BJP would not field a candidate against him for the Karimnagar byelection: Problem is, the State BJP had on Sunday already declared the candidature of Mr Ch Vidyasagar Rao. Why would Mr Chandrasekhar Rao do this? Sources said Mr Chandrasekhar Rao was uncertain and wanted to sew things up ahead of the prestige election. The TRS and the BJP are both fighting on the Telangana Statehood plank. Speaking to journalists, Mr Chandrasekhar Rao sprang a surprise by stating that BJP president Rajnath Singh had called him up on Sunday and told him that the BJP would not field its candidate in Karimnagar. He also said that Mr Singh had assured him that the BJP Central leadership would persuade the State party unit on the issue.
Pawan Kalyan in new role Tuesday, September 26, 2006 | Pavan
Powerstar Pawan Kalyan in 'Aaj Ka Gunda Raj' ABCDFEG'. This is the liner that is going on the poster of new film 'Aaj Ka Gunda Raj'. In fact, many of the Bollywood film audiences recognize Chiranjeevi with 'Aaj Ka Gunda Raj'.Well, the film is the dubbed version of 'Balu' that toppled in Tollywood. As all the villains in the film are from Bollywood, the film grabbed the attention of Hindi film makers. These days, many Tollywood films are getting dubbed into Hindi and trade circles say that they do considerable business in rural Maharashtra and other rural parts of India. Balakrishna's films are also getting dubbed in this way into Hindi. Recently 'Allari Pidugu' and 'Vijayndra Varma' were dubbed in Hindi.
Tirumala Tirupati Brahmotsavam started Tuesday, September 26, 2006 | Pavan
For the benefit of the devotees the Tirumala-Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has created a website listing out the various programmes and activities in connection with the nine-day annual Brahmotsavam. Devotees could access the brahmotsavam details by logging on www.tirumala.org or www.brahmotsavam.nic.in, a TTD official said here today.
Eenadu daily exposed Rs.2500 land scam Tuesday, September 26, 2006 | Pavan
Eenadu telugu daily exposed Rs.2500 Outer Ring Road land scam. After their news article the Outer Ring Road (ORR) realignment controversy took a new turn with the Telugu Desam filing a writ petition in the High Court seeking an inquiry by Central investigating agencies. Alleging that the land acquisition scam in the State is worth thousands of crores of rupees, the TD said Congress leaders at the national level too have been receiving kickbacks. The Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) also jumped into the fray demanding that Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy should immediately resign owning moral responsibility for the irregularities. TRS president K. Chandrasekhar Rao claimed to have documentary evidence of Chief Minister’s involvement in the scam along with several ministers and senior officials.
Vidyasagar Rao may contest from Karimnagar Monday, September 25, 2006 | Pavan
Bharatiya Janata Party State president N. Indrasena Reddy announced that party senior leader and former Union minister Ch. Vidyasagar Rao would contest in Karimnagar Lok Sabha bypoll. Ending speculation over the party’s move, the BJP president said that Mr Vidyasagar Rao held different positions from Karimnagar in the past 20 years and would contest in the bypoll also. He, however, said that election in Karimnagar is not a referendum on Telangana and it would be considered as referendum only if all the peoples representatives of Telangana Rashtra Samithi resign to their posts and seek fresh election. Mr Reddy said senior party leader Bandaru Dattatreya would act as election in-charge for Karimanagar, while another party leader K. Haribabu would hold similar responsibilities for Bobbili Lok Sabha seat. The party will soon announce its candidate for Bobbili, he said.
Doors open for TRS:Sonia Monday, September 25, 2006 | Pavan
A day after TRS president K. Chandrasekhar Rao formalised his resignation from the Lok Sabha and walked out of the UPA, the Congress appeared readying to face him in the byelection as a victim than an aggressor. On Sunday, addressing a joint press conference after the conclusion of the two-day party chief ministers’ conference in Nainital, Congress president Sonia Gandhi said, "We have not closed doors on them. I don’t think we have deceived anybody. In the CMP, it is clearly stated that we have to develop a consensus. We will still continue to move towards a consensus. The Pranab Mukherjee committee is very much there." Earlier, AP chief minister Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy was much more circumspect. On Mr Rao’s resignation, he told select journalists, "Telangana is not just their issue. They cannot claim monopoly on Telangana. Our MPs and MLAs have also made representations on Telangana to the party high command. Whether Telangana will be formed or not will be decided by Mrs Sonia Gandhi."
Bommarillu sold to all major languages Monday, September 25, 2006 | Pavan
The Best debutant director of this year Bhaskar, who directed 'Bommarillu' is flooded with opportunities from all big banners. Why not, after a long time the story of a Telugu Cinema (Bommarillu) has been sold to all major languages in India including Hindi , Tamil and Kannada. Now Bhaskar has joined 1 Crore director's club and Buzz is that he is been asked to introduce a star's son and successor of two big families in Telugu Industry. Let's wait and see.
Recorded rains: No water problem for twincities Monday, September 25, 2006 | Pavan
Copious rainfall last week saw major sources of drinking water getting enough water to resume supply every day to the denizens of the twin cities. But lack of storage infrastructure coupled with the government’s apathy is making the precious commodity go waste. Singur, the major drinking water source, has received 5 tmc ft of water taking the level to 23.085 tmc ft, almost double the capacity last year. The quantum of water at Singur on September 23, 2005, was 12.690 tmc ft.The capacity in Manjira rose from last year’s 1.256 tmc ft to 1.5 tmc ft while Osmansagar recorded 1.718 tmc ft as against last year’s 0.972 tmc ft. Though there is marginal improvement in the levels in Himayatsagar, water from the second phase of Krishna project is also set to flow into the city. The Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWS&SB) has roped in the TCE Consulting Engineers Limited of the Tata Group to identify the water demand at various places of the twin cities for the construction of water storages. Based on their report, the board had proposed to construct 14 storage of 100 million litres (ml) capacity.
Heavy rains claimed six live in Andhra Friday, September 22, 2006 | Pavan
The incessant rains and floods claimed six lives and the rain-related death toll rose to 37. In Visakhapatnam agency, four persons were washed away in floodwaters. The Sileru reservoir had been getting massive inflow due to rains that had been lashing the Visakha agency for the last five days.In Karimnagar, a 17-year-old girl accidentally slipped in a stream at Kachapur village in Shankarapatnam mandal. Potharaveni Mamatha, 17, an Intermediate student of a Huzurabad-based junior college, was washed away while crossing it near Kachapur village. In another incident, fifty-year-old V. Parvathi died on the spot when a wall collapsed on her at her house at Neelampalli village in Mahadevpur mandal.
With rumours of a new disease "Monkey Gunya", gripping parts of the State, health experts rush in to clarify that there is no such disease. "In severe cases of chikungunya, patients may develop rashes all over the body. Many people tend to believe that this is a new disease. But it is nothing more than Chikungunya. There is no disease called Monkey Gunya and even the World Health Organisation has not registered it," said a Doctor of Government Chest Hospital in the city.Places like Guntur, West Godavari, Prakasam and Nellore districts, have reported cases of the so-called "Monkey Gunya". Senior rheumatologist P.S.R. Gupta of Care Hospital said that there was no reference to Monkey Gunya in medical literature. "It is just a medical rumour and at best the disease is nothing but Chikungunya which some doctors might have mistaken and given the new name,"However, there is a "Monkey fever" or Kyasanur forest fever transmitted by as two species of monkeys which are known to harbour the virus. Monkey fever was prevalent in late 1960s and early 1970s. This fever also has similar symptoms of chikungunya like muscle pain and nausea. Prof. Krishnamurthy of Siddhartha Medical College opined that there is little possibility of diseases spreading to men from monkeys as there is not much contact.
Stalin in politics? Thursday, September 21, 2006 | Pavan
Care should be taken in every angle while making movie with Chiranjeevi. While the talks on Chiranjeevi’s political entry is in airs, audiences watched the film "Stalin" with eager interest to find clues. But Chiranjeevi implied that he belongs to Shirdi Sai Baba’s party, the embodiment of Hindu-Muslim unity and serving the people. The photo frame of Sai Baba was hanged on the wall beside Chief Minister’s chair (CM is the sympathizer of Stalin in the film). If Gandhi’s frame was hanged, people mistake it as ‘Congress’. If ‘Bharatamata’ is shown, people may also draw conclusions saying ‘BJP’. If nothing is shown, that raises no interest. Hence Saibaba is shown.
Senior NTR acting in Junior NTR movie Thursday, September 21, 2006 | Pavan
It's the advent of technological competency that is showing NTR and Jr NTR in same frame. Both the grand father and grand son are acting together and dancing for a song as well. In the same way Soundarya is also making her entry on screen after her demise. Although it sounds to be a wonder it is happening very soon. SS Rajamouli's 'Yamadonga' with Jr NTR is creating such fascinating scenes. Rajamouli is changing his image now by switching over from routine action dramas to graphics and special effects. 'Yamadonga' will have only the lines of 'Yamagola' but not a complete remake.
YSR wins in Sarvey Vs Rajgopal issue Thursday, September 21, 2006 | Pavan
The Congress high command attempted to snuff out dissidence in the State unit by threatening "severe disciplinary action" against party leaders making "unnecessary and unwarranted comments" on sensitive issues. The leadership would come down with a "heavy hand" on those who embarrass the party, AICC general secretary and AP incharge Digvijay Singh told the State Congressmen at an emergency meeting at Gandhi Bhavan. At his urging, the State unit passed a resolution gagging itself and leaving the Telangana issue to party president Sonia Gandhi. Also at his urging, feuding Congress MPs Sarve Satyanarayana and L. Rajagopal apologised to each other, the latter calling the former his "mama" father-in-law. Mr Singh was quietly heard by party leaders at the meeting at Gandhi Bhavan, the State Congress headquarters. Only Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy, State unit president K. Keshava Rao spoke, apart from Mr Singh.
Telugu actress posed for hot photo session Tuesday, September 19, 2006 | Pavan
Ramya Sree, who played as glamorous lecturer in 'Nuvvu Nenu' is trying her luck on screen with many attempts. She played many roles on silver screen but hardly found a place for her. Then she ventured on Kannada screen as well. However, she is trying to hit back with more vigor and better glamour quotient.Recently she posed for a hot photo session in a sensuous revealing way. She made the cameras flash on her when she sat silent without wearing blouse. The photographs are circulating among a few producers and Ramyasree would get whopping glamorous offers as per the latest sources.
Real star Sreehari in Jail Tuesday, September 19, 2006 | Pavan
Real Star Sreehari spent value time in Cherlapally Jail along with prisoners to entertain them. Disco Shanti also accompanied him.Addressing the prisoners Sree Hari said, "There is talent in every human being. I believe that every human being has some art in him by birth. If that comes out at right time, he will be a professional artiste".Later, Sree Hari encouraged a few prisoners to exhibit their talents. Some prisoners sang songs; some played flute and many prisoners have made it a pleasant day with Sree Hari.
Stalin advance bookings started in abroad Tuesday, September 19, 2006 | Pavan
Even before he arrived in the USA, the Megastar’s STALIN gave a glimpse of his might at the box-office. In view of the persistent demand, from the moment advance bookings have started on line, KAD Entertainment has added 2 more prints to the already record number of 16 prints for the US. This brings the total number of prints in USA to 18 and the total number of overseas prints to 29, the biggest ever overseas release for any South Indian Film. STALIN is now premiering in 30 centers in the first week in US and Canada alone.
Kamma community countered Dalit activists Tuesday, September 19, 2006 | Pavan
Those who closely observed the scene at Somajiguda press club where Vijayawada MP Lagadapati Rajagopal was attacked by Telangana and Dalit activists, were suprised to find the unity which was displayed by Kamma community in supporting the MP. Within half an hour of the news of Dalits abusing Lagadapati and his caste, Kamma leaders from Ameerpet and other parts, cutting across their party affiliations, descended on the scene and countered the Dalit activists.
Rebel TRS MLAs in dilemma Tuesday, September 19, 2006 | Pavan
With the Telangana Rashtra Samiti returning to limelight following the resignation of party president K. Chandrasekhar Rao and senior leader A. Narendra from the UPA Cabinet, the TRS rebel MLAs have gone into silent mode, worrying about their future political course. Except Hanamkonda MLA Mandadi Satyanarayana Reddy, the six TRS rebels MLAs — T. Jayaprakash Reddy (Sangareddy), D. Srinivasa Rao (Chennur), B. Sara Rani (Parkal), G. Mukunda Reddy (Peddapalli), Narayana Rao Patel (Mudhole) and S. Santosh Reddy (Armoor) parted ways with the TRS president and inclined towards the Congress, after the party lost municipal elections in September 2005.
Telangana movement C/o Osmania University Tuesday, September 19, 2006 | Pavan
Osmania University is becoming a hotbed for the separate Telangana movement with thousands of students coming out for the cause of Statehood. The university which has history of agitations from the Vande Mataram movement in the 1930’s, had kept the Statehood movement alive even before the inception of the Telangana Rashtra Samiti. TRS Vidyarthi Vibhagam, a frontal organisation of TRS, Telangana Vidyarthi Vedika, Telangana Vidyarthi Sangh and Junior Lawyers Association of Telangana are at the forefront of the movement. The Telangana Vidyarthi Sangh comprises student unions like SC, ST and BC students associations of the university. The Telangana Vidyarthi Sangh held a rally on September 17 with around 10,000 students on the campus to celebrate the Hyderabad Liberation day with NDA convener George Fernandes, BJP national secretary Bandaru Dattatreya, balladeer Gaddar in attendance. This was the fourth visit in six years to the campus for Mr Fernandes. The TRS student wing Telangana Rashtra Samithi Vidyarthi Vibhagam is the strongest students union now. The TRS pink flag flies prominently everywhere. Thousands of students from the university held rallies on August 22 when TRS ministers quit the UPA government. Dozens of students sat on a hunger strike on August 22 and 23 to express solidarity with party president K. Chandrasekhara Rao.
Attack on MP Rajagopal: Emergency PCC meeting tomorrow Tuesday, September 19, 2006 | Pavan
The weeklong verbal jousting between Congress MPs Sarve Satyanarayana and Lagadapati Rajagopal over Telangana Statehood suddenly flared up on and took regional and caste colours. Pro-Telangana and Dalit activists roughed up Mr Rajagopal, who belongs to the powerful Kamma caste, and hurled slippers at him as he tried to address mediapersons at the Press Club here. The protest was against alleged anti-Dalit remarks he had made. The police was present there but for over three hours merely watched the proceedings. Some reports said supporters of Mr Rajagopal had left Vijayawada to stage a dharna outside Mr Sarve Satyanarayana’s residence. Meanwhile, TRS president K. Chandrasekhar Rao said “It is an internal affair of the Congress and TRS has nothing to do with the incident. If at all the TRS would protest it would do so with pink flags and kanduvas.” Party MLA A. Chandrasekhar too denied any TRS role in the attack on Mr Rajagopal. Trouble began when activists of the of Telangana Vidhyarthi Sangh, the student wing of the TRS, and Madiga Dandora stopped Mr Rajagopal from entering the the Press Club. He was expected to react to remarks against him by Mr Satyanarayana on Sunday.
New luxury hotels in Hyderabad Friday, September 15, 2006 | Pavan
Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd, which owns a chain of budget and luxury hotels in southern India, is scouting for properties in northern and western India, even as it expects to launch its properties in Hyderabad and Jaipur, Mr Chender Baljee, chairman and managing director, of the company said. Royal Orchid currently operates four hotels in Bangalore and will be opening a heritage hotel in Mysore. As part of the expansion into other southern states, Mr Baljee said, Royal Orchid will be opening a boutique hotel in Hyderabad. The property is being developed by Mr Harmahendar Singh Bagga, a local entrepreneur, and Royal Orchid will be running the 85-room hotel.
Pennsylvania opens office in Hyderabad Friday, September 15, 2006 | Pavan
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (CoP), one of the largest States in the United States of America, has opened its second Indian office in Hyderabad. The commonwealth opened its first office in Bangalore in 2001. �The Hyderabad office has been opened due to increasing interest in investment activities in the commonwealth by Indian companies, as well as the State seeking new foreign direct investment to secure jobs and capital,� Mr Raj Devireddy, representative director for Andhra Pradesh, said in a statement.
Hyderabad has lost Dell Inc Friday, September 15, 2006 | Pavan
Dell Inc., the largest computer manufacturer in the world, on Thursday said that it would be setting up a computer manufacturing facility at Sriperumbudur Hi-Tech Park, near Chennai, with an investment of $30 million. With this move, Hyderabad has lost another manufacturing unit. The Andhra Pradesh government had made a pitch to Kevin B. Rollins, CEO of Dell, Inc., during his visit to the Hyderabad centre of Dell International Services in January.C.S. Rao, an advisor on IT to the government and CEO of APInvest, the nodal agency tasked with attracting investments into Andhra Pradesh, had made a presentation on the tax sops and other benefits being offered to computer hardware companies in Hyderabad. Dell has over 4,000 workers at its support centre in Hyderabad. The $57.4-billion company signed an MoU with Tamil Nadu government officials in the presence of Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi. The Indian facility would be Dell�s sixth manufacturing location globally.
Andhra Major shot dead at Jammu & Kashmir Friday, September 15, 2006 | Pavan
An Indian Army officer of the rank of major was shot dead by a soldier in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir late on Wednesday evening. The officer has been identified as one Major Harsh of the Rashtriya Rifles while the jawan, identified as Naik Ravi Kumar, has been placed under arrest. Naik Ravi Kumar pumped eight bullets from his rifle into the officer, killing him instantly. Sources said that Major Harsh and Naik Ravi Kumar had entered into an argument with each other recently. According to Army Headquarters here, the incident occurred at about 11 pm on Wednesday at the Thana Mandi area of Rajouri district. Naik Ravi Kumar was working as a clerk and Major Harsh was said to be unhappy with the jawans performance. A court of inquiry has been ordered into the killing. Sources said that Major Harsh belonged to Jaipur while Naik Ravi Kumar reportedly hails from Andhra Pradesh.
Burning issue: Kesava Rao in troubles Thursday, September 14, 2006 | Pavan
Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee president K. Keshava Rao on Wednesday withdrew his comments on ensuring elections within a month if TRS chief K. Chandrasekhar Rao resigned for his Lok Sabha membership. Maintaining that Mr Chandrasekhar Rao should not have taken his comments seriously and resigned, the PCC chief hoped that the former would withdraw his resignation in the interest of the common cause for which TRS and Congress was fighting for. Apparently after receiving a dressing down from the high command, a visibly upset Keshava Rao went totally on the defensive and said he was withdrawing whatever the comments that had hurt the TRS president.
Volkswagen may set up unit at Pune? Thursday, September 14, 2006 | Pavan
Taking a serious note of German car major Volkswagen’s reported move to set-up its unit in Pune, the State government has asked the company to respect the agreement reached with it on setting up car manufacturing in the State. "We have written a strongly word letter to the German car major. The company had entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the State government and they have to honour it," Chief Minister, Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy said. Reacting to reports of Volkswagen deciding to set up its car unit in Pune, Dr Reddy said the government has asked Volkswagen to reconsider their decision and stick to its earlier plan.
Hope Tuesday, September 12, 2006 | Pavan
Ramaianidu's 'Hope' is based on suicides being attempted by students for not being in tune with the pressure and stress levels. A girl commits suicide for getting fewer marks in exams. Then with immense grief, the heroine Puja does a research on the psychological aspects of children. A professor who bears years of experience in dealing with international students and study methods stands as a support for Puja in herresearch.The film suggests the schools and tutorials to curb stress levels for children.Director of the film Staish says that he got inspiration to write for the film after losing his daughter, who committed suicide for getting low marks in exams. The movie is planned to release on 15th September 2006.
Chiranjeevi is planning to own a TV channel Tuesday, September 12, 2006 | Pavan
Gossips are making rounds that Chiranjeevi encouraged Nagarjuna to take MAA TV Shares. Akkienni Nagarjuna has taken 30% share in MAA TV. But when asked about this, Nag says not to ask about that. According to souces Chiranjeevi is planning to own a media channel that can push him if he enters politics. Well, Chiru is opting the way that Chandrababu took by getting close to media. In the process, to avoid a few impressions by taking the shares of his own in MAA TV, Chiru asked his close friend Nag to do that. Well, Nagarjuna is not so keen now on the activities of the channel. Many are saying that he would take active part when Chiru gives him green signal.
Surya marriage: Nayantara feeling bad Tuesday, September 12, 2006 | Pavan
Sources say that Nayan Tara is feeling bad for that. Well, same is the case with Vikram and he did not get any invitation from Jo and Suriya. Suriya worked along with Vikram in 'Shiva Putrudu' and that gave Suriya immense popularity. Jo worked along with Nayan Tara in 'Chandramukhi' and they shared good friendship. Simbu was also missing in the function as it's obvious that Nayan Tara missed. However, film circles in Chennai assumed that Suriya and Jo did something inappropriate by not inviting the key people who are on the top in Tamil film industry.
K.Chandrasekhar Rao resigned for Lok Sabha Tuesday, September 12, 2006 | Pavan
Three weeks after quitting the UPA government, Telangana Rashtra Samithi supremo K Chandrasekhara Rao morning announced his resignation from the Karimnagar Lok Sabha seat and vowed to intensify the movement for a separate Telangana state. "I am now sending the resignation letter to Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath Chatterjee. I challenge Congress leaders from Telangana to quit their posts and seek fresh mandate on the statehood issue", Rao said with press.KCR's dramatic announcement was in response to the challenge thrown by the state Congress leaders asking him to quit his Lok Sabha seat and go to the people.
AP Police recovered 600 rockets from Naxals Friday, September 8, 2006 | Pavan
Andhra Pradesh police has claimed its biggest arms haul in two years, recovering 600 rocket missiles from the Naxal-infested forests in Mahabubnagar district. They also diffused at least 20 landmines from within the 10 km radius. The seized missiles are understood to have the capability to shoot targets or objects up to 1 km range. According to police, when put on a shoulder, they can also target moving objects like car, bus, truck or even a low-flying helicopter.
Hyderbad "bad"shahs in trouble Friday, September 8, 2006 | Pavan
The domination of Owaisis in the Old City of Hyderabad is all set to take a beating, as there are reports of internal clashes among the Owaisi brothers within the family. Following reports of veteran Majlis leader Sultan Salahuddin Owaisi not keeping a good health these days has raised the question as to who is the real heir of senior Owaisi. While the eldest brother and Hyderbad MP Asaduddin Owaisi is considered to be the natural choice, his younger brother and Charminar MLA Akbaruddin is defying his brother and openly challenging his leadership.
Staliln VS Boss Friday, September 8, 2006 | Pavan
Both 'Stalin' and 'Boss' are releasing shortly. People are betting on the films with their analysis. In fact, sentiments play very vital role in the film and that's known for everyone. Diagnosing all ins and outs a few are saying that Stalin would run well theaters only with Chiranjeevi and Murugudoss aspect. Paruchuri's dialogues are not gelling well on screen these days. The majority of films on Anjana banner have flop history except Bavagaru Bagunnara. So, it's only the blend of Chiru and Murugudoss that should work on silver screen.
Sex scandal: Madu"gula" in troubles Friday, September 8, 2006 | Pavan
Madugula Naga Phani Sharma lives in Barkatpura of Hyderabad and the house was found locked today (That house was gifted by Chandrababu Naidu when he was the CM). American authorities confirmed that Nagaphani Sharma is in Hyderabad at present. But he is on oblivion for the fear of facing media. He is keeping himself alert ever since the sex scandal news is rolling on television channels. Stories are growing rampant on his sexual assaults on women on one side, but on the other side, Nagaphani’s brother Siva Prasad Sharma is saying that it’s a conspiracy. Curtain cant fall down on this hot news until Nagaphani shows himself to public and media. He is now in hidden mode at a place and that is yet to be known.
Ganesh immersion peaceful in Hyderabad Friday, September 8, 2006 | Pavan
The Ganesh idols immersion process continued up to 11.30 am on Thursday with the 40-feet Khairatabad idol being immersed in Hussain sagar around 10 am. City Police Commissioner A.K. Mohanty and Additional CP (Traffic) A. K. Khan lauded the pandal organisers, people and the police personnel on bandobust on the peaceful completion of the festival. "The delay in start of the centralised procession was because the police did not pressurise pandal organisers to start early. It only reflects the confidence we had in ensuring peaceful completion of the festival," Mohanty added. Earlier, a large number of people had turned up to witness the immersion of Khairatabad Ganesh idol resulting in traffic jam at NTR marg followed by Necklace road, Upper Tank Bund leading up to Khairatabad via Lakdikapul and Secretariat. Despite a special crane being installed for the immersion of Khairatabad idol, police faced a lot of problems.
Gas pipelines in AP soon Friday, September 8, 2006 | Pavan
Given the increasing demand for supply of gas, the Gas Authority of India Limited (Gail) contemplates setting up of a 1,700 km pipeline network in the State shortly as a part of the national gas grid programme. GAIL chairman S.P. Rao said the pipeline network proposed to cover Itchchapuram in the Kolkata-Chennai sector, Srikakulam, Rajahmundry, Ongole, Tuljapur falling under the Kakinada-Vooran sector, Secunderabad, Kakinada and Chittoor in the Bangalore-Chennai sector in the State and added that a comprehensive survey was underway to lay the pipeline. Mr Rao said that GAIL is working out a masterplan for supplying gas for domestic purposes in 50 cities in the country.
Government should take up rehabilitation of the fllod victims: CPM Saturday, September 2, 2006 | Pavan
The executive meeting of the CPI(M) Khammam district unit here reiterated its demand for completion of Dummugudem lift irrigation scheme and bringing down the height of Polavaram Project. CPI(M) district secretary K. Sambasiva Rao said that people in over 15 mandals in the district were rendered homeless due to the floods to river Godavari. While the farmers have lost the crops, the agriculture labourers have lost their mandays, he said and wanted the government to take up rehabilitation of the flood victims on a war-footing.
ACB trapped two excise officials Saturday, September 2, 2006 | Pavan
The Anti-Corruption Bureau trapped two excise officials and a district registrar for corruption in two separate cases. Excise deputy commissioner Veerendra Singh and assistant superintendent Veda Brahmam were caught while accepting bribes from suspended excise sub-inspector Mogini Koteswara Rao. The ACB simultaneously conducted raids on the properties of the tainted officials and their relatives. ACB DSP Mahipal Reddy said that the excise officials had accepted Rs 5,000 each from Mr Koteswara Rao. "Fingerprints on the currency notes match that of the officials," said the DSP. Mr Koteswara Rao was suspended for staging a protest before the excise commissionerate in Hyderabad 14 months ago.
Vizag contains precious gemstones Saturday, September 2, 2006 | Pavan
A green hillock overlooking the small hamlet of Karaka, 90 kms from Visakhapatnam, is literally a secret treasure mound. If geologists are to be believed, the hillock, spread over 32 km, contains precious gemstones ready for the picking. The mushrooming of millionaires in the area overnight has added credence to the claim of geologists. As one approaches the village from Narsipatnam, a sign board put by the revenue department warns against gemstone quarrying and urges vehicles to get registered at the panchayat office. Ironically, the panchayat office has been closed down for the last two years. The road ends at the forest department thana (office) which was also shut down in March 2005.
