<p>In a bizarre incident, a home guard from Indian state Andhra Pradesh forcibly took away a vehicle from a family of six who was proceeding to Tirumala to visit the temple of Lord Venkateswara. The home guard took the vehicle saying that it was needed for the convoy of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy who is&nbsp;supposed to travel to Prakasam District of the state on April 22.</p>

<p>The incident took place at Ongole in Andhra Pradesh. The home guard approached the family when it was having food at a hotel. The home guard said that the car (a Toyota Innova) along with its driver was needed as Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy was due to visit the district.</p>

<p>Baffled by this development, the family tried to reason with the home guard but couldn't succeed. The family had to spend the night at Ongole bus stand.</p>

<p>The issue took political turn when former state chief minister Chandrababu Naidu criticised the current government</p>

<p>"Who gave the right to officials to cause such inconvenience and suffering to a family by obstructing their journey?'' asked Naidu&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Has the state economy slipped into such a pitiable state that it was not able to arrange a car outof its own resources for the CM's convoy? What sort of example the officials were sending to civil society by resorting to such a car snatching incident?" he said further.</p>

<p>Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has expressed his displeasure at the incident. He has ordered strict action against the erring officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This kind of measure will not be tolerated especially when people are in trouble," said the CM in a statement.</p>

<p>Acting on CM's order, the Andhra Pradesh Transport Department has suspended P Rupal Reddy, the home guard and A Sandhya, Assistant Motor Vehicle Inspector, holding them responsible for this incident.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


In a bizarre incident, a home guard from Indian state Andhra Pradesh forcibly took away a vehicle from a family of six who was proceeding to Tirumala to visit the temple of Lord Venkateswara.

In a bizarre incident, a home guard from Indian state Andhra Pradesh forcibly took away a vehicle from a family of six who was proceeding to Tirumala to visit the temple of Lord Venkateswara. The home guard took the vehicle saying that it was needed for the convoy of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy who is supposed to travel to Prakasam District of the state on April 22. The incident took place at Ongole in Andhra Pradesh. The home guard approached the family when it was having food at a hotel. The home guard said that the car (a Toyota Innova) along with its driver was needed as Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy was due to visit the district. Baffled by this development, the family tried to reason with the home guard but couldn't succeed. The family had to spend the night at Ongole bus stand. The issue took political turn when former state chief minister Chandrababu Naidu criticised the current government "Who gave the right to officials to cause such inconvenience and suffering to a family by obstructing their journey?'' asked Naidu "Has the state economy slipped into such a pitiable state that it was not able to arrange a car outof its own resources for the CM's convoy? What sort of example the officials were sending to civil society by resorting to such a car snatching incident?" he said further. Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has expressed his displeasure at the incident. He has ordered strict action against the erring officials. This kind of measure will not be tolerated especially when people are in trouble," said the CM in a statement. Acting on CM's order, the Andhra Pradesh Transport Department has suspended P Rupal Reddy, the home guard and A Sandhya, Assistant Motor Vehicle Inspector, holding them responsible for this incident.

Home guard snatches citizen's vehicle 'for CM', gets suspended by chief minister

<p>Six persons were charred to death and 12 injured in a massive fire accident that took place in a chemical factory called Porus Private Limited in the Musunuru village of Andhra Pradesh's Krishna district on Wednesday.</p>

<p>The fire broke out in the factory delivering polymer raw material after a container leaked and the flames started hitting the factory through an opened manhole, police said. A container leaked in the factory and suddenly, the flames came out through a manhole.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A total of five people died on the spot and one was killed on the way to the hospital. As many as 12 people are also injured in the accident," Srinvasulu, DSP Nujiveedu told ANI.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-reacts-to-blinkens-rise-in-human-rights-abuses-in-india-remarks-shows-concerns-over-cases-in-us-470876">Jaishankar reacts to Blinken's 'rise in human rights abuses in India' remarks</a></strong></p>

<p>Rahul Dev Sharma, Eluru SP said, "There were 18 workers on duty at the time of the accident. The victims were shifted to Vijayawada and Nuziveedu for better treatment. Upon receiving the information, firefighters and police rushed to the scene and took relief measures. Two floors were completely burnt in the fire."</p>

<p>Police also informed that out of six died, a total of four deceased people belonged to Bihar state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Thursday condoled the death of six people and announced Rs 25 lakh compensation for the family members of the victims of the gas leak-triggered explosion.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India's software giant Infosys announces withdrawal from India</strong></p>

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<p>The chief minister also declared Rs 5 lakh compensation for each of those critically injured and Rs 2 lakh for those who sustained minor injuries.</p>

<p>Officials have been instructed to monitor the condition of those injured and the SP along with the district collector have been directed to conduct a thorough investigation into the reason for the incident.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/whatsapp-gets-approval-to-hike-users-to-100-mn-for-payments-service-in-india-says-report-470816">WhatsApp payment service gets nod for 100 mn users in India: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Governor Biswabhusan Harichandan also expressed anguish over the accident. The district officials informed the Governor that the fire broke out in the chemical factory on Wednesday night and the injured have been shifted to a hospital in Vijayawada for better treatment.</p>

<p>The Governor also expressed his condolences to the bereaved family members and wished for the speedy recovery of those injured in the accident.&nbsp;</p>


Six persons were charred to death and 12 injured in a massive fire accident that took place in a chemical factory called Porus Private Limited in the Musunuru village of Andhra Pradesh's Krishna district on Wednesday.

Six persons were charred to death and 12 injured in a massive fire accident that took place in a chemical factory called Porus Private Limited in the Musunuru village of Andhra Pradesh's Krishna district on Wednesday. The fire broke out in the factory delivering polymer raw material after a container leaked and the flames started hitting the factory through an opened manhole, police said. A container leaked in the factory and suddenly, the flames came out through a manhole. A total of five people died on the spot and one was killed on the way to the hospital. As many as 12 people are also injured in the accident," Srinvasulu, DSP Nujiveedu told ANI. Also read | Jaishankar reacts to Blinken's 'rise in human rights abuses in India' remarks Rahul Dev Sharma, Eluru SP said, "There were 18 workers on duty at the time of the accident. The victims were shifted to Vijayawada and Nuziveedu for better treatment. Upon receiving the information, firefighters and police rushed to the scene and took relief measures. Two floors were completely burnt in the fire." Police also informed that out of six died, a total of four deceased people belonged to Bihar state. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Thursday condoled the death of six people and announced Rs 25 lakh compensation for the family members of the victims of the gas leak-triggered explosion. Watch | India's software giant Infosys announces withdrawal from India The chief minister also declared Rs 5 lakh compensation for each of those critically injured and Rs 2 lakh for those who sustained minor injuries. Officials have been instructed to monitor the condition of those injured and the SP along with the district collector have been directed to conduct a thorough investigation into the reason for the incident. Also read | WhatsApp payment service gets nod for 100 mn users in India: Report Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Governor Biswabhusan Harichandan also expressed anguish over the accident. The district officials informed the Governor that the fire broke out in the chemical factory on Wednesday night and the injured have been shifted to a hospital in Vijayawada for better treatment. The Governor also expressed his condolences to the bereaved family members and wished for the speedy recovery of those injured in the accident.

6 killed, 12 injured in Andhra Pradesh’s pharma unit fire, CM announces compensation for victims

<p>At least 8 people have been killed and 12 went missing as torrential rains hit the Indian city of Andhra Pradesh. A downpour of up to 20cm was recorded in three Rayalaseema districts and one south coastal district in the Indian state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The air force, SDRF, and fire services are all pitching in to help with flood relief and rescue efforts.</p>

<p>Indian PM Narendra Modi spoke with Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy as he inquired about the situation and expressed his sympathies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Residents of Andhra Pradesh have been cut off as heavy downpours led to swollen rivers and rivulets. In some regions, roads have turned into canals sweeping away the vehicles.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/heavy-rains-kill-at-least-14-in-indias-chennai-rescue-work-underway-428490#flights-cancelled-and-delayed-428487"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Heavy rains kill at least 14 in India's Chennai, rescue work underway</strong></a></p>

<p>As a result of torrential rains, the South Central Railway cancelled 11 passengers and Express trains. Five were partially cancelled and 27 were diverted through other routes. One train was also rescheduled.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Massive floods in Chitoor district of Andhra Pradesh. Heavy rains lashing parts of the region including Tirupathi. This scary visual is from Vasantanagar where an entire building was washed away by the overflowing Swarnamukhi river. Stay safe <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chitoor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chitoor</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TirupatiRains?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TirupatiRains</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AndhraFloods?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AndhraFloods</a> <a href="https://t.co/JGd5gO9buz">pic.twitter.com/JGd5gO9buz</a></p>
— Revathi (@revathitweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/revathitweets/status/1461556728642740224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Massive floods in Chitoor district of Andhra Pradesh. Heavy rains lashing parts of the region including Tirupathi. This scary visual is from Vasantanagar where an entire building was washed away by the overflowing Swarnamukhi river. Stay safe <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chitoor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chitoor</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TirupatiRains?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TirupatiRains</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AndhraFloods?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AndhraFloods</a> <a href="https://t.co/JGd5gO9buz">pic.twitter.com/JGd5gO9buz</a></p>
— Revathi (@revathitweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/revathitweets/status/1461556728642740224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Never ever seen scenes from temple town of Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh after heavy rains lashed Chittoor district, causing massive flooding. <a href="https://t.co/8JG4Np9ovP">pic.twitter.com/8JG4Np9ovP</a></p>
— vramakanth (@vramakanth3) <a href="https://twitter.com/vramakanth3/status/1461691146518740993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ten people were reported to be stranded in the neighbouring Anantapuramu district. They were then rescued by Indian Air Force personnel, who specially flew in from Yelahanka Air Force Station in Karnataka. The team also carried out a lifting operation using a Mi-17 helicopter.</p>

<p>PM Modi assured that the Centre will provide all sorts of support. "Spoke to Andhra Pradesh CM @ysjagan Garu on the situation in the wake of heavy rainfall in parts of the state. Assured all possible support from the Centre. I pray for everyone’s well-being and safety," he tweeted.</p>

<p>In the Kadapa district, 33 relief camps were opened with 1,200 people being lodged. SDRF, police and fire Services personnel have rescued tens of people from the deadly floods.</p>

<p>Climate change has triggered extreme climate conditions in different parts of world. A few days before&nbsp;heavy rain pounded&nbsp;India's southern state of Tamil Nadu. The state capital Chennai also flooded in several areas, bringing normal life to a standstill as water entered buildings.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-least-25-dead-after-heavy-rains-spark-landslides-in-indian-state-of-kerala-421650"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;At least 25 dead after heavy rains spark landslides in Indian state of Kerala</strong></a></p>

<p>The arrival of flights in Chennai was been suspended in view of showers and heavy winds though departures continued.</p>

<p>Many parts of the state capital Chennai, which is India's auto manufacturing centre, were waterlogged and government officials used pumps to drain some communities that had been stranded waist-deep.</p>

<p>India's northeast monsoon usually runs from October to December, bringing heavy rain, particularly to the south.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


At least 8 people have been killed and 12 went missing as torrential rains hit the Indian city of Andhra Pradesh. A downpour of up to 20cm was recorded in three Rayalaseema districts and one south coastal district in the Indian state.

At least 8 people have been killed and 12 went missing as torrential rains hit the Indian city of Andhra Pradesh. A downpour of up to 20cm was recorded in three Rayalaseema districts and one south coastal district in the Indian state. The air force, SDRF, and fire services are all pitching in to help with flood relief and rescue efforts. Indian PM Narendra Modi spoke with Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy as he inquired about the situation and expressed his sympathies. Residents of Andhra Pradesh have been cut off as heavy downpours led to swollen rivers and rivulets. In some regions, roads have turned into canals sweeping away the vehicles. Also read | Heavy rains kill at least 14 in India's Chennai, rescue work underway As a result of torrential rains, the South Central Railway cancelled 11 passengers and Express trains. Five were partially cancelled and 27 were diverted through other routes. One train was also rescheduled. Massive floods in Chitoor district of Andhra Pradesh. Heavy rains lashing parts of the region including Tirupathi. This scary visual is from Vasantanagar where an entire building was washed away by the overflowing Swarnamukhi river. Stay safe #Chitoor #TirupatiRains #AndhraFloods pic.twitter.com/JGd5gO9buz — Revathi (@revathitweets) November 19, 2021 × Massive floods in Chitoor district of Andhra Pradesh. Heavy rains lashing parts of the region including Tirupathi. This scary visual is from Vasantanagar where an entire building was washed away by the overflowing Swarnamukhi river. Stay safe #Chitoor #TirupatiRains #AndhraFloods pic.twitter.com/JGd5gO9buz — Revathi (@revathitweets) November 19, 2021 × Never ever seen scenes from temple town of Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh after heavy rains lashed Chittoor district, causing massive flooding. pic.twitter.com/8JG4Np9ovP — vramakanth (@vramakanth3) November 19, 2021 × Ten people were reported to be stranded in the neighbouring Anantapuramu district. They were then rescued by Indian Air Force personnel, who specially flew in from Yelahanka Air Force Station in Karnataka. The team also carried out a lifting operation using a Mi-17 helicopter. PM Modi assured that the Centre will provide all sorts of support. "Spoke to Andhra Pradesh CM @ysjagan Garu on the situation in the wake of heavy rainfall in parts of the state. Assured all possible support from the Centre. I pray for everyone’s well-being and safety," he tweeted. In the Kadapa district, 33 relief camps were opened with 1,200 people being lodged. SDRF, police and fire Services personnel have rescued tens of people from the deadly floods. Climate change has triggered extreme climate conditions in different parts of world. A few days before heavy rain pounded India's southern state of Tamil Nadu. The state capital Chennai also flooded in several areas, bringing normal life to a standstill as water entered buildings. Also read | At least 25 dead after heavy rains spark landslides in Indian state of Kerala The arrival of flights in Chennai was been suspended in view of showers and heavy winds though departures continued. Many parts of the state capital Chennai, which is India's auto manufacturing centre, were waterlogged and government officials used pumps to drain some communities that had been stranded waist-deep. India's northeast monsoon usually runs from October to December, bringing heavy rain, particularly to the south. (With inputs from agencies)

At least 8 dead, 12 missing after torrential rains hit Indian state of Andhra Pradesh

<p>A child died and seven others belonging to Odisha went missing in the Sileru river here when two country boats they were travelling in capsized early on Tuesday.</p>

<p>However, three people swam to safety, police sources said here.</p>

<p>The victims were tribal migrant workers returning to their village Konduguda in Odisha from Hyderabad.</p>

<p>In all, some 35 people started in five country boats in the Sileru river.</p>

<p>Some of them safely reached their destination.</p>

<p>They chose the river route given the ongoing Covid curfew in the state.</p>

<p>A search operation has been launched to trace the victims.</p>


A child died and seven others belonging to Odisha went missing in the Sileru river here when two country boats they were travelling in capsized early on Tuesday.

A child died and seven others belonging to Odisha went missing in the Sileru river here when two country boats they were travelling in capsized early on Tuesday. However, three people swam to safety, police sources said here. The victims were tribal migrant workers returning to their village Konduguda in Odisha from Hyderabad. In all, some 35 people started in five country boats in the Sileru river. Some of them safely reached their destination. They chose the river route given the ongoing Covid curfew in the state. A search operation has been launched to trace the victims.

One dead, 7 missing as country boats capsize in a river in Andhra Pradesh

<p>A woman infected with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid-19</a>, who allegedly ran away from a quarantine facility in Delhi after her arrival from the UK, has been traced and admitted to a hospital along with her son in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh.</p>

<p>The woman and her son's swap samples were being sent to National Institute of Virology in Pune to determine whether they have contracted the new strain of coronavirus that is spreading wildly in Britain, a health department official said, reports news agency PTI.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>After allegedly fleeing away from a quarantine facility in the national capital, the woman reached her hometown Rajamahendravaram in Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-strain-of-coronavirus-not-seen-in-india-so-far-government-351602">New strain of coronavirus not seen in India so far: Government</a></strong></p>

<p>She was then held by Railway police and health officials and hospitalised post-Wednesday midnight.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the officials said that woman told them that she was recommended home quarantine and decided to leave New Delhi as she was asymptomatic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Her son, who went to New Delhi to pick her up, was also admitted and both have been given isolated rooms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The woman, who works as a teacher in the UK, arrived in New Delhi on December 21 and tested positive for coronavirus following which she was kept in a quarantine facility.</p>

<p>However, she, along with her son, escaped from the facility and boarded a train to her hometown.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Delhi Police then alerted the railway authorities, who discovered that the woman was travelling in a first-class in AP Express and sent the details to authorities in Rajamahendravaram.</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


A woman infected with Covid-19, who allegedly ran away from a quarantine facility in Delhi after her arrival from the UK, has been traced and admitted to a hospital along with her son in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh.

A woman infected with Covid-19, who allegedly ran away from a quarantine facility in Delhi after her arrival from the UK, has been traced and admitted to a hospital along with her son in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh. The woman and her son's swap samples were being sent to National Institute of Virology in Pune to determine whether they have contracted the new strain of coronavirus that is spreading wildly in Britain, a health department official said, reports news agency PTI. Watch | After allegedly fleeing away from a quarantine facility in the national capital, the woman reached her hometown Rajamahendravaram in Andhra Pradesh. Also read | New strain of coronavirus not seen in India so far: Government She was then held by Railway police and health officials and hospitalised post-Wednesday midnight. However, the officials said that woman told them that she was recommended home quarantine and decided to leave New Delhi as she was asymptomatic. Her son, who went to New Delhi to pick her up, was also admitted and both have been given isolated rooms. The woman, who works as a teacher in the UK, arrived in New Delhi on December 21 and tested positive for coronavirus following which she was kept in a quarantine facility. However, she, along with her son, escaped from the facility and boarded a train to her hometown. The Delhi Police then alerted the railway authorities, who discovered that the woman was travelling in a first-class in AP Express and sent the details to authorities in Rajamahendravaram.

Woman with Covid-19 returns from UK, flees quarantine centre to reach hometown in Andhra Pradesh

<p>Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Monday visited a hospital in Eluru and talked with those afflicted by a mysterious disease as the tally of infected patients rose to 347.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The city in the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh is struggling to contain this mysterious disease&nbsp;that has taken the life of one person and has hospitalised 292 other people as of Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Over 200 patients have returned home after getting treated while the condition of others was stable, officials said, reports news agency PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-still-seeking-clues-to-mystery-illness-afflicting-diplomats-and-spies-337168">US still seeking clues to mystery illness afflicting diplomats and spies</a></strong></p>

<p>A 45-year-old man, who was hospitalised early on Sunday with symptoms of nausea and epilepsy, died in the evening.</p>

<p>So far, it has not been found as to what caused the illness that led to people suddenly falling unconsciousness after experiencing symptoms such as fits and nausea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Medical professional also conducted blood tests and CT (brain) scan to establish the cause of the disease.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Monday, experts from the National Institute of Nutrition and Indian Institute of Chemical Technology from Hyderabad would arrive in Eluru to know about the mysterious illness, district Joint Collector Himanshu Shukla said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Union Minister of State for Home G Kishan Reddy talked to AP Chief Secretary Nilam Sawhney and enquired about the situation and said the central government was ready to extend any possible help.</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Monday visited a hospital in Eluru and talked with those afflicted by a mysterious disease as the tally of infected patients rose to 347.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Monday visited a hospital in Eluru and talked with those afflicted by a mysterious disease as the tally of infected patients rose to 347. The city in the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh is struggling to contain this mysterious disease that has taken the life of one person and has hospitalised 292 other people as of Sunday. Over 200 patients have returned home after getting treated while the condition of others was stable, officials said, reports news agency PTI. Also read | US still seeking clues to mystery illness afflicting diplomats and spies A 45-year-old man, who was hospitalised early on Sunday with symptoms of nausea and epilepsy, died in the evening. So far, it has not been found as to what caused the illness that led to people suddenly falling unconsciousness after experiencing symptoms such as fits and nausea. Medical professional also conducted blood tests and CT (brain) scan to establish the cause of the disease. On Monday, experts from the National Institute of Nutrition and Indian Institute of Chemical Technology from Hyderabad would arrive in Eluru to know about the mysterious illness, district Joint Collector Himanshu Shukla said. Union Minister of State for Home G Kishan Reddy talked to AP Chief Secretary Nilam Sawhney and enquired about the situation and said the central government was ready to extend any possible help.

Andhra Pradesh mystery disease: Hospitalisation tally jumps to 347

<p>The Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Tuesday passed by voice vote the AP Gaming (Amendment) Bill 2020 banning online gaming in the state after some youngsters committed suicide in recent days after they were pushed into debts by playing online games.<br />
<br />
The Assembly also passed the Andhra Pradesh Municipal Laws (Second Amendment) Bill 2020 by voice vote and three Bills to give a major push to the aquaculture sector that contributes over ₹ 50,660 crores to the state's economy every year.</p>

<p>The AP Fish Feed (Quality Control) Bill, the AP Aquaculture Seed (Quality Control) Amendment Bill and the Andhra Pradesh Fisheries University Bill 2020 were passed by voice vote amid protests by the opposition Telugu Desam Party.</p>

<p>Speaking on the Gaming Amendment Bill, Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy said some youngsters committed suicide in recent days after they were pushed into debts due to online gaming.</p>

<p>Home Minister M Sucharita said the AP Gaming Act, 1974 was being amended to bring online gaming into its purview.</p>

<p>Explaining the objective behind amending the gaming law, the Home Minister pointed out that online gambling could induce criminal behaviour in society and increase the number of organised crimes like money laundering and fraud.</p>

<p>"Many internet websites which claim to provide gambling services are not authentic and there are no regulatory measures to check the legitimacy of these sites.</p>

<p>That makes it really easy for these sites to defraud the customers and it also raises a lot of security and privacy issues," Ms Sucharita added.</p>

<p>Under the amendment, the first offence attracts imprisonment for up to one year and a fine of ₹ 5,000. For every subsequent offence, the term of imprisonment might extend up to two years and a fine of ₹ 10,000. Every offence under this has been made cognisable and non-bailable.</p>

<p>Municipal Administration Minister B Satyanarayana said as part of the reforms suggested by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, the relevant state laws were being amended to switch over property tax levy from the present annual rental value system to capital value-based system.</p>

<p>The new system would fetch the state over ₹ 120 crores as additional revenue on property tax in urban local bodies.</p>

<p>The aqua sector Bills had provisions for setting up a regulatory mechanism to ensure the quality of fish feed and seed to prevent farmers from incurring losses due to spurious feed, according to Fisheries Minister S Appala Raju.</p>


The Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Tuesday passed by voice vote the AP Gaming (Amendment) Bill 2020 banning online gaming in the state after some youngsters committed suicide in recent days after they were pushed into debts by playing online games.

The Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Tuesday passed by voice vote the AP Gaming (Amendment) Bill 2020 banning online gaming in the state after some youngsters committed suicide in recent days after they were pushed into debts by playing online games. The Assembly also passed the Andhra Pradesh Municipal Laws (Second Amendment) Bill 2020 by voice vote and three Bills to give a major push to the aquaculture sector that contributes over ₹ 50,660 crores to the state's economy every year. The AP Fish Feed (Quality Control) Bill, the AP Aquaculture Seed (Quality Control) Amendment Bill and the Andhra Pradesh Fisheries University Bill 2020 were passed by voice vote amid protests by the opposition Telugu Desam Party. Speaking on the Gaming Amendment Bill, Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy said some youngsters committed suicide in recent days after they were pushed into debts due to online gaming. Home Minister M Sucharita said the AP Gaming Act, 1974 was being amended to bring online gaming into its purview. Explaining the objective behind amending the gaming law, the Home Minister pointed out that online gambling could induce criminal behaviour in society and increase the number of organised crimes like money laundering and fraud. "Many internet websites which claim to provide gambling services are not authentic and there are no regulatory measures to check the legitimacy of these sites. That makes it really easy for these sites to defraud the customers and it also raises a lot of security and privacy issues," Ms Sucharita added. Under the amendment, the first offence attracts imprisonment for up to one year and a fine of ₹ 5,000. For every subsequent offence, the term of imprisonment might extend up to two years and a fine of ₹ 10,000. Every offence under this has been made cognisable and non-bailable. Municipal Administration Minister B Satyanarayana said as part of the reforms suggested by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, the relevant state laws were being amended to switch over property tax levy from the present annual rental value system to capital value-based system. The new system would fetch the state over ₹ 120 crores as additional revenue on property tax in urban local bodies. The aqua sector Bills had provisions for setting up a regulatory mechanism to ensure the quality of fish feed and seed to prevent farmers from incurring losses due to spurious feed, according to Fisheries Minister S Appala Raju.

Andhra Pradesh passes gaming amendment bill to ban online games

<p>A total of 88 deaths and 8,012 new COVID-19 cases were reported in Andhra Pradesh on Sunday, informed the state`s COVID nodal officer.</p>

<p>"In the last 24 hours, 48,746 samples were tested and out of them, 8,012 were positive. With this, the total number of cases in Andhra Pradesh increases to 2,89,829, including 85,945 active cases," the officer said.</p>

<p>Out of the 88 deaths that were reported in the last 24 hours with 10 each from Chittoor and East Godavari each, nine each from Kurnool, Nellore, eight each from Anantapur and West Godavari, seven from Visakhapatnam, six each from Guntur and Kadapa, four each from Prakasam, Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, and three from Krishna district. So far, a total of 2,650 deaths have been reported in the state.&nbsp;</p>


A total of 88 deaths and 8,012 new COVID-19 cases were reported in Andhra Pradesh on Sunday, informed the state`s COVID nodal officer. "In the last 24 hours, 48,746 samples were tested and out of them, 8,012 were positive.

A total of 88 deaths and 8,012 new COVID-19 cases were reported in Andhra Pradesh on Sunday, informed the state`s COVID nodal officer. "In the last 24 hours, 48,746 samples were tested and out of them, 8,012 were positive. With this, the total number of cases in Andhra Pradesh increases to 2,89,829, including 85,945 active cases," the officer said. Out of the 88 deaths that were reported in the last 24 hours with 10 each from Chittoor and East Godavari each, nine each from Kurnool, Nellore, eight each from Anantapur and West Godavari, seven from Visakhapatnam, six each from Guntur and Kadapa, four each from Prakasam, Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, and three from Krishna district. So far, a total of 2,650 deaths have been reported in the state.

88 deaths, 8,012 new COVID-19 cases reported in Andhra Pradesh

<p>With 8,732 new COVID-19 cases and 87 deaths reported in Andhra Pradesh in the last 24 hours, the tally has surged to 2,81,817 on Saturday.</p>

<p>As many as 53,712 samples were tested in the last 24 hours, of which 8,732 detected COVID positive, stated the COVID nodal officer in a bulletin.</p>

<p>The total count of COVID recovered cases reached 1,91,117 after 10,414 patients recovered during the same.</p>

<p>According to the bulletin, these 87 deaths were reported from Chittoor, Guntur, East Godavari, West Godavari, Anantapur, Kadapa, Kurnool, Nellore, Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, Prakasam, Srikakulam and Krishna districts of Andhra Pradesh.</p>

<p>The death toll due to COVID-19 stands at 2,562 in the state.</p>


With 8,732 new COVID-19 cases and 87 deaths reported in Andhra Pradesh in the last 24 hours, the tally has surged to 2,81,817 on Saturday. As many as 53,712 samples were tested in the last 24 hours, of which 8,732 detected COVID positive, stated the COVID nodal officer in a bulletin.

With 8,732 new COVID-19 cases and 87 deaths reported in Andhra Pradesh in the last 24 hours, the tally has surged to 2,81,817 on Saturday. As many as 53,712 samples were tested in the last 24 hours, of which 8,732 detected COVID positive, stated the COVID nodal officer in a bulletin. The total count of COVID recovered cases reached 1,91,117 after 10,414 patients recovered during the same. According to the bulletin, these 87 deaths were reported from Chittoor, Guntur, East Godavari, West Godavari, Anantapur, Kadapa, Kurnool, Nellore, Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, Prakasam, Srikakulam and Krishna districts of Andhra Pradesh. The death toll due to COVID-19 stands at 2,562 in the state.

Andhra reports 8,732 new COVID-19 cases, 87 deaths in last 24 hours

<p>A total of 9,597 new COVID-19 cases and 93 deaths were reported in Andhra Pradesh in the last 24 hours, according to the state COVID nodal officer.</p>

<p>"In the last 24 hours, 57,148 samples are tested in Andhra Pradesh. Of which, 9,597 samples tested COVID positive. With this, total cases in AP increase to 2,54,146," stated the COVID nodal officer in a media bulletin on Wednesday.</p>

<p>There are 90,425 active cases, 1,61,425 patients have recovered while 2,296 have succumbed to the virus, the bulletin added.</p>

<p>In the last 24 hours, 93 fatalities were reported from Guntur (13), Prakasam (11), Chittoor (10), Nellore (10), Srikakulam (09), Anantapur (07), Kadapa (07), Visakhapatnam (06), East Godavari (05), Vizianagaram (05), Kurnool (04), West Godavari (04) and Krishna (02) districts of the state, as per the bulletin.&nbsp;</p>


A total of 9,597 new COVID-19 cases and 93 deaths were reported in Andhra Pradesh in the last 24 hours, according to the state COVID nodal officer. "In the last 24 hours, 57,148 samples are tested in Andhra Pradesh.

A total of 9,597 new COVID-19 cases and 93 deaths were reported in Andhra Pradesh in the last 24 hours, according to the state COVID nodal officer. "In the last 24 hours, 57,148 samples are tested in Andhra Pradesh. Of which, 9,597 samples tested COVID positive. With this, total cases in AP increase to 2,54,146," stated the COVID nodal officer in a media bulletin on Wednesday. There are 90,425 active cases, 1,61,425 patients have recovered while 2,296 have succumbed to the virus, the bulletin added. In the last 24 hours, 93 fatalities were reported from Guntur (13), Prakasam (11), Chittoor (10), Nellore (10), Srikakulam (09), Anantapur (07), Kadapa (07), Visakhapatnam (06), East Godavari (05), Vizianagaram (05), Kurnool (04), West Godavari (04) and Krishna (02) districts of the state, as per the bulletin.

Andhra Pradesh reports 9,597 new COVID-19 cases, 93 deaths in last 24 hours

<p>Andhra Pradesh's COVID-19 tally jumped to&nbsp;2,44,549 on Tuesday as 9,024 fresh cases were added to the tally, while 87 more deaths pushed the overall toll to 2,203.</p>

<p>According to the latest bulletin 9,113 patients were discharged from hospitals in the state after recovering from the disease.</p>

<p>More positive cases were detected in rapid antigen tests as compared to RT-PCR, TruNat and other tests in the last 24 hours in the state.</p>

<p>In all, 30,908 rapid antigen tests were conducted, of which 5,132 turned positive, according to the bulletin.</p>

<p>The other 27,407 tests turned out 3,892 positive cases.</p>

<p>The infection positivity rate rose further to 9.43 per cent after a total of 25,92,619 tests were completed till date, the bulletin said.</p>

<p>Andhra Pradesh now has 87,597 active COVID-19 cases after 1,54,749 people recovered.</p>

<p>East Godavari and Kurnool districts contributed to the bulk of the new cases with 1,372 and 1,138 respectively.<br />
Anantapuramu was behind with 959.</p>

<p>Anantapuramu reported 13 deaths, Chittoor 12, Guntur nine and Prakasam and Visakhapatnam seven each in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;</p>


Andhra Pradesh's COVID-19 tally jumped to 2,44,549 on Tuesday as 9,024 fresh cases were added to the tally, while 87 more deaths pushed the overall toll to 2,203.

Andhra Pradesh's COVID-19 tally jumped to 2,44,549 on Tuesday as 9,024 fresh cases were added to the tally, while 87 more deaths pushed the overall toll to 2,203. According to the latest bulletin 9,113 patients were discharged from hospitals in the state after recovering from the disease. More positive cases were detected in rapid antigen tests as compared to RT-PCR, TruNat and other tests in the last 24 hours in the state. In all, 30,908 rapid antigen tests were conducted, of which 5,132 turned positive, according to the bulletin. The other 27,407 tests turned out 3,892 positive cases. The infection positivity rate rose further to 9.43 per cent after a total of 25,92,619 tests were completed till date, the bulletin said. Andhra Pradesh now has 87,597 active COVID-19 cases after 1,54,749 people recovered. East Godavari and Kurnool districts contributed to the bulk of the new cases with 1,372 and 1,138 respectively. Anantapuramu was behind with 959. Anantapuramu reported 13 deaths, Chittoor 12, Guntur nine and Prakasam and Visakhapatnam seven each in the last 24 hours.

9,024 fresh COVID-19 cases in Andhra Pradesh, 87 deaths

<p>At least 11 people lost their lives at the Hindustan Shipyard Limited premises in Visakhapatnam on Saturday when a huge rail-mounted crane collapsed during a trial run, reports said quoting a top district official.</p>

<p>Four of the victims were employees of HSL while the rest belonged to a contracting agency, District Collector Vinay Chand told reporters.</p>

<p>It is said it is the first such mishap at Hindustan Shipyard.</p>

<p>The mishap occurred when the victims were engaged in erecting the crane, Police Commissioner RK Meena told.</p>

<p>Three of the bodies were recovered and identified, police said. The rescue operations were on. TV visuals showed the giant 75-tonne crane falling on the ground with a loud thud.</p>

<p>Chief Minister YS Jaganmohan Reddy has directed Visakhapatnam District Collector and City Police Commissioner to take immediate action in the incident.</p>


At least 11 people lost their lives at the Hindustan Shipyard Limited premises in Visakhapatnam on Saturday when a huge rail-mounted crane collapsed during a trial run, reports said quoting a top district official.

At least 11 people lost their lives at the Hindustan Shipyard Limited premises in Visakhapatnam on Saturday when a huge rail-mounted crane collapsed during a trial run, reports said quoting a top district official. Four of the victims were employees of HSL while the rest belonged to a contracting agency, District Collector Vinay Chand told reporters. It is said it is the first such mishap at Hindustan Shipyard. The mishap occurred when the victims were engaged in erecting the crane, Police Commissioner RK Meena told. Three of the bodies were recovered and identified, police said. The rescue operations were on. TV visuals showed the giant 75-tonne crane falling on the ground with a loud thud. Chief Minister YS Jaganmohan Reddy has directed Visakhapatnam District Collector and City Police Commissioner to take immediate action in the incident.

Crane collapse at Hindustan Shipyard in Andhra Pradesh leaves 11 dead

<p>Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders Narhari Amin, Ajay Bhardwaj, Ramilaben Bara and Congress leader Shaktisinh Gohil have been elected as Rajya Sabha members from Gujarat.</p>

<p>Counting of votes for four seats in Gujarat began after a delay of four-hours as the Congress demanded that the Election Commission invalidate two BJP votes on different grounds.</p>

<p>As many as 43 first-timers are set to enter the Upper House accounting for 72 per cent of vacancies being filled up, the research division of Rajya Sabha has found.</p>

<p>For the 19 vacancies in Rajya Sabha for which results were announced on Friday, there were 28 candidates in the fray of which 24 were never members of Rajya Sabha.</p>

<p>Friday's contest is between such freshers in Gujarat, Manipur, Meghalaya and Mizoram.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;</em></p>


Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders Narhari Amin, Ajay Bhardwaj, Ramilaben Bara and Congress leader Shaktisinh Gohil have been elected as Rajya Sabha members from Gujarat.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders Narhari Amin, Ajay Bhardwaj, Ramilaben Bara and Congress leader Shaktisinh Gohil have been elected as Rajya Sabha members from Gujarat. Counting of votes for four seats in Gujarat began after a delay of four-hours as the Congress demanded that the Election Commission invalidate two BJP votes on different grounds. As many as 43 first-timers are set to enter the Upper House accounting for 72 per cent of vacancies being filled up, the research division of Rajya Sabha has found. For the 19 vacancies in Rajya Sabha for which results were announced on Friday, there were 28 candidates in the fray of which 24 were never members of Rajya Sabha. Friday's contest is between such freshers in Gujarat, Manipur, Meghalaya and Mizoram. (With inputs from PTI)

Rajya Sabha elections 2020: BJP bags three seats, Congress one in Gujarat

<p>The ruling YSR Congress bagged All the four Rajya Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh in the biennial election held on Friday as expected.</p>

<p>According to Legislature sources, Deputy Chief Minister Pilli Subhash Chandra Bose, Minister Mopidevi Venkata Ramana, industrialist Parimal Nathwani and realtor Ayodhya Rami Reddy of the YSRC were elected with 38 votes each.</p>

<p>The opposition Telugu Desam Party, which had forced the contest despite not having the numbers, lost badly, with its nominee Varla Ramaiah polling only 17 votes against its technical strength of 23 in the assembly.</p>

<p>In Jharkhand, JMM supremo Shibu Soren and BJP state unit president Deepak Prakash won.</p>

<p>Prakash secured 31 votes, while Soren, a former chief minister, won 30.</p>

<p>Congress candidate Shahzada Anwar finished third by bagging 18 votes, the official said.<br />
This will be Soren's third term as a Rajya Sabha member. Soren, whose Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) now governs Jharkhand, had also served as a Union minister.</p>

<p>It will be Prakash's maiden term in the Upper House of Parliament.</p>

<p>Polling in the two seats was held during the day as the tenure of Independent member Parimal Nathwani and RJD's Prem Chand Gupta ended in April.</p>

<p>As many as 43 first timers are set to enter the Upper House accounting for 72 per cent of vacancies being filled up, the research division of Rajya Sabha has found.</p>

<p>For the 19 vacancies in Rajya Sabha for which results were announced on Friday, there were 28 candidates in the fray of which 24 were never members of Rajya Sabha.</p>

<p>Friday's contest is between such freshers in Gujarat, Manipur, Meghalaya and Mizoram.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>(with inputs from PTI)</strong></em></p>


The ruling YSR Congress bagged All the four Rajya Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh in the biennial election held on Friday as expected. According to Legislature sources, Deputy Chief Minister Pilli Subhash Chandra Bose, Minister Mopidevi Venkata Ramana, industrialist Parimal Nathwani and realtor Ayodhya Rami Reddy of the YSRC were elected with 38 votes each.

The ruling YSR Congress bagged All the four Rajya Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh in the biennial election held on Friday as expected. According to Legislature sources, Deputy Chief Minister Pilli Subhash Chandra Bose, Minister Mopidevi Venkata Ramana, industrialist Parimal Nathwani and realtor Ayodhya Rami Reddy of the YSRC were elected with 38 votes each. The opposition Telugu Desam Party, which had forced the contest despite not having the numbers, lost badly, with its nominee Varla Ramaiah polling only 17 votes against its technical strength of 23 in the assembly. In Jharkhand, JMM supremo Shibu Soren and BJP state unit president Deepak Prakash won. Prakash secured 31 votes, while Soren, a former chief minister, won 30. Congress candidate Shahzada Anwar finished third by bagging 18 votes, the official said. This will be Soren's third term as a Rajya Sabha member. Soren, whose Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) now governs Jharkhand, had also served as a Union minister. It will be Prakash's maiden term in the Upper House of Parliament. Polling in the two seats was held during the day as the tenure of Independent member Parimal Nathwani and RJD's Prem Chand Gupta ended in April. As many as 43 first timers are set to enter the Upper House accounting for 72 per cent of vacancies being filled up, the research division of Rajya Sabha has found. For the 19 vacancies in Rajya Sabha for which results were announced on Friday, there were 28 candidates in the fray of which 24 were never members of Rajya Sabha. Friday's contest is between such freshers in Gujarat, Manipur, Meghalaya and Mizoram. (with inputs from PTI)

Ruling YSRC bags all four Rajya Sabha seats in Andhra; JMM, BJP win in Jharkhand

<p>At a time when even liquor is overpriced and rare to get hold of in a few states, a young man in Andhra was about a receive a foreign post of high-value drugs, but the plans were&nbsp;thwarted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Customs officials in Chennai seized a Foreign post parcel that contained 400pills of banned narcotic substance Ecstasy worth Rs12lakhs. An Andhra-based smuggler who was the recipient of the parcel has also been arrested.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Officials, a parcel from Haarlem, the Netherlands which was consigned for Bhimavaram in West Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh was detained, based on intelligence inputs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On examination, the parcel contained a tiny toy box within which two plastic pouches with coloured tablets were found. Those 400 tablets in green-yellow and pink colour, tested positive for narcotic substance MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In narcotics parlance, the green-yellow pills are known as ‘Brazuca’, which contains 220mg MDMA, whereas the pink pills are known as ‘Givenchy’ contain 250mg of MDMA and their samples have been sent to the laboratory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We had made two earlier seizures of MDMA this year. During the nationwide lockdown, Cannabis which was sent to Andhra Pradesh via foreign post from America&nbsp;was seized. There have been other cases in the past also where drugs have been seized ”,&nbsp;Rajan Chaudhary, Commissioner Customs told WION.</p>

<p>"Based on searches carried&nbsp;out at the recipient address(550km away from Chennai), the accused, a 27-year old engineering dropout was brought to Chennai by road. It was learnt that he had booked the parcel via Dark Web and made the payment via Bitcoin. The individual confessed to his role in smuggling before the magistrate and the accused was remanded in judicial custody,"&nbsp;Rajan Chaudhary added.</p>

<p>MDMA, which is commonly known as Ecstasy, is a party drug that alters mood and perception. It is chemically similar to stimulants and hallucinogens which produce feelings of increased energy and pleasure. The seized pills are highly potent as they contain over 200mg MMDA per pill. Even dosages above 120mg are considered to be fatal.</p>


At a time when even liquor is overpriced and rare to get hold of in a few states, a young man in Andhra was about a receive a foreign post of high-value drugs, but the plans were thwarted.

At a time when even liquor is overpriced and rare to get hold of in a few states, a young man in Andhra was about a receive a foreign post of high-value drugs, but the plans were thwarted. Customs officials in Chennai seized a Foreign post parcel that contained 400pills of banned narcotic substance Ecstasy worth Rs12lakhs. An Andhra-based smuggler who was the recipient of the parcel has also been arrested. According to Officials, a parcel from Haarlem, the Netherlands which was consigned for Bhimavaram in West Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh was detained, based on intelligence inputs. On examination, the parcel contained a tiny toy box within which two plastic pouches with coloured tablets were found. Those 400 tablets in green-yellow and pink colour, tested positive for narcotic substance MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine). In narcotics parlance, the green-yellow pills are known as ‘Brazuca’, which contains 220mg MDMA, whereas the pink pills are known as ‘Givenchy’ contain 250mg of MDMA and their samples have been sent to the laboratory. “We had made two earlier seizures of MDMA this year. During the nationwide lockdown, Cannabis which was sent to Andhra Pradesh via foreign post from America was seized. There have been other cases in the past also where drugs have been seized ”, Rajan Chaudhary, Commissioner Customs told WION. "Based on searches carried out at the recipient address(550km away from Chennai), the accused, a 27-year old engineering dropout was brought to Chennai by road. It was learnt that he had booked the parcel via Dark Web and made the payment via Bitcoin. The individual confessed to his role in smuggling before the magistrate and the accused was remanded in judicial custody," Rajan Chaudhary added. MDMA, which is commonly known as Ecstasy, is a party drug that alters mood and perception. It is chemically similar to stimulants and hallucinogens which produce feelings of increased energy and pleasure. The seized pills are highly potent as they contain over 200mg MMDA per pill. Even dosages above 120mg are considered to be fatal.

Ecstasy Pills worth Rs 12 lakhs sent from Netherlands to Andhra Pradesh, seized in Chennai, 1 arrested 

At least 11 people died and 800 have been hospitalized after a chemical gas leakage inside a pharmaceutical company at RR Venkatapuram village in Andhra Pradesh's Visakhapatnam on Thursday (May 7).

11 dead, 800 hospitalized after styrene gas leak in Vizag | Visakhapatnam

<p>With an average of 1504 COVID-19 tests per one million population, officials in Andhra Pradesh said the state tops in the country on that count and added the state government is gearing up to set up Virology labs in all the districts.</p>

<p>This was revealed during a review meeting held here on Tuesday chaired by Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Briefing the COVID-19 situation in the state, the officials told Chief Minister that 82 positive cases have been recorded in the past 24 hours and a total of 80,334 tests have been conducted so far.</p>

<p>While the national average in terms of positives cases recorded is 4.13 per cent and the Andhra Pradesh average is 1.57 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The average death rate of the country is 3.19 per cent and the state average is 2.46 per cent.</p>

<p>All these cases are from containment zones, officials said and informed that they are gearing up to set up labs in Srikakulam, Prakasam, and Nellore along with Vizianagaram and West Godavari districts.</p>


With an average of 1504 COVID-19 tests per one million population, officials in Andhra Pradesh said the state tops in the country on that count and added the state government is gearing up to set up Virology labs in all the districts.

With an average of 1504 COVID-19 tests per one million population, officials in Andhra Pradesh said the state tops in the country on that count and added the state government is gearing up to set up Virology labs in all the districts. This was revealed during a review meeting held here on Tuesday chaired by Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. Briefing the COVID-19 situation in the state, the officials told Chief Minister that 82 positive cases have been recorded in the past 24 hours and a total of 80,334 tests have been conducted so far. While the national average in terms of positives cases recorded is 4.13 per cent and the Andhra Pradesh average is 1.57 per cent. The average death rate of the country is 3.19 per cent and the state average is 2.46 per cent. All these cases are from containment zones, officials said and informed that they are gearing up to set up labs in Srikakulam, Prakasam, and Nellore along with Vizianagaram and West Godavari districts.

Andhra Pradesh claims it leads in COVID-19 tests in country

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<p>Srijana Gummalla, the commissioner of the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation, returned to her office in just a month after giving birth to her baby.</p>

<p>The top officer said it was the call of duty as the country fights coronavirus pandemic that motivated her to get back to work as soon as possible.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 2013-batch IAS officer, who was seen in photos sitting in her office with the baby cradled in her arms, won her high praise on social media.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">कोरोना संकट में अपने कर्तव्य की पुकार पर अपने 1 माह के बच्चे के साथ ग्रेटर विशाखापट्टनम की नगर आयुक्त श्रीमती सृजना गुम्माला वापस ड्यूटी पर लौट आईं।<br />
भाग्यशाली है यह राष्ट्र जहां ऐसे कोरोना योद्धा है। कर्तव्य निष्ठा के इस जीवंत उदाहरण के लिए आपका हृदय से आभार।<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NoCoronaPolitics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NoCoronaPolitics</a> <a href="https://t.co/7md7CxKRp2">pic.twitter.com/7md7CxKRp2</a></p>
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<p>"It is like a call of duty for me. As a human being, it is my response to be of some help to the administration. I felt that this is the time we should all stand together and be of strength to each other," Srijana Gummalla, commissioner of the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation, said.</p>

<p>Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat praised the officer and expressed gratitude for attending to the "call of duty".</p>

<p>"The country is fortunate to have such corona warriors. My heartfelt gratitude for this living example of commitment to duty," Mr Shekhawat tweeted in Hindi, along with the IAS officer and her baby's photo.</p>

<p>"She returned to her work with her 1-month-old baby in hand to duty. The crisis made her to answer the call of duty. Nation is lucky to have such corona warriors," BJP leader BL Santhosh tweeted.</p>


Srijana Gummalla, the commissioner of the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation, returned to her office in just a month after giving birth to her baby. The top officer said it was the call of duty as the country fights coronavirus pandemic that motivated her to get back to work as soon as possible.

Srijana Gummalla, the commissioner of the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation, returned to her office in just a month after giving birth to her baby. The top officer said it was the call of duty as the country fights coronavirus pandemic that motivated her to get back to work as soon as possible. The 2013-batch IAS officer, who was seen in photos sitting in her office with the baby cradled in her arms, won her high praise on social media. कोरोना संकट में अपने कर्तव्य की पुकार पर अपने 1 माह के बच्चे के साथ ग्रेटर विशाखापट्टनम की नगर आयुक्त श्रीमती सृजना गुम्माला वापस ड्यूटी पर लौट आईं। भाग्यशाली है यह राष्ट्र जहां ऐसे कोरोना योद्धा है। कर्तव्य निष्ठा के इस जीवंत उदाहरण के लिए आपका हृदय से आभार।#NoCoronaPolitics pic.twitter.com/7md7CxKRp2 — Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (@gssjodhpur) April 12, 2020 × "It is like a call of duty for me. As a human being, it is my response to be of some help to the administration. I felt that this is the time we should all stand together and be of strength to each other," Srijana Gummalla, commissioner of the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation, said. Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat praised the officer and expressed gratitude for attending to the "call of duty". "The country is fortunate to have such corona warriors. My heartfelt gratitude for this living example of commitment to duty," Mr Shekhawat tweeted in Hindi, along with the IAS officer and her baby's photo. "She returned to her work with her 1-month-old baby in hand to duty. The crisis made her to answer the call of duty. Nation is lucky to have such corona warriors," BJP leader BL Santhosh tweeted.

Andhra Pradesh IAS officer returns to work a month after giving birth

<p>Actor Janhvi Kapoor on Monday offered prayers at the Lord Balaji temple in Andhra Pradesh's Chittoor district. The 'Dhadak'&nbsp;actor was seen clad in traditional south Indian half saree in bright pink and yellow colors.<br />
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Telugu film industry personalities, including director M Gopichand, music director SS Thaman and lyricist Ramajogaiah Sastry, also visited the heavenly abode.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/janhvikapoor/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Janhvi Kapoor</a> (@janhvikapoor) on <time datetime="2020-02-10T11:17:04+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Feb 10, 2020 at 3:17am PST</time></p>
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<p>The temple authorities welcomed the movie personalities in a traditional manner, after which they sought blessings.&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B8WhRtLg3el/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">🌈🌞</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/janhvikapoor/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Janhvi Kapoor</a> (@janhvikapoor) on <time datetime="2020-02-09T15:53:58+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Feb 9, 2020 at 7:53am PST</time></p>
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<p>Earlier on Sunday, the actor had shared photos from her Andhra Pradesh visit on Instagram. Decked in white salwar-suit and yellow dupatta, Janhvi looked fresh as a daisy in the pictures.<br />
<br />
Janhvi has loads of work lined up with '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/first-look-out-janhvi-kapoor-plays-first-woman-indian-air-force-officer-to-go-to-war-246333">Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl'</a>&nbsp;and the second installment of 'Dostana'&nbsp;alongside Kartik Aaryan and Lakshya. She will also be seen in Karan Johar's magnum opus, '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/karan-johar-shares-first-look-of-takht-movie-to-release-in-christmas-2021-278119">Takht'.</a></p>


Actor Janhvi Kapoor on Monday offered prayers at the Lord Balaji temple in Andhra Pradesh's Chittoor district. The 'Dhadak' actor was seen clad in traditional south Indian half saree in bright pink and yellow colors.

Actor Janhvi Kapoor on Monday offered prayers at the Lord Balaji temple in Andhra Pradesh's Chittoor district. The 'Dhadak' actor was seen clad in traditional south Indian half saree in bright pink and yellow colors. Telugu film industry personalities, including director M Gopichand, music director SS Thaman and lyricist Ramajogaiah Sastry, also visited the heavenly abode. View this post on Instagram 🌺🌼🌸🌈☀️ A post shared by Janhvi Kapoor (@janhvikapoor) on Feb 10, 2020 at 3:17am PST × The temple authorities welcomed the movie personalities in a traditional manner, after which they sought blessings. View this post on Instagram 🌈🌞 A post shared by Janhvi Kapoor (@janhvikapoor) on Feb 9, 2020 at 7:53am PST × Earlier on Sunday, the actor had shared photos from her Andhra Pradesh visit on Instagram. Decked in white salwar-suit and yellow dupatta, Janhvi looked fresh as a daisy in the pictures. Janhvi has loads of work lined up with 'Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl' and the second installment of 'Dostana' alongside Kartik Aaryan and Lakshya. She will also be seen in Karan Johar's magnum opus, 'Takht'.

Janhvi Kapoor offers prayers at Tirupati Balaji temple in Andhra Pradesh

<p>India successfully test-fires the 3,500 km strike range nuclear-capable K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile off the coast of Andhra Pradesh on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This nuclear-capable missile meant for Arihant submarine and will strengthen its capabilities to hit enemy targets from submarines.</p>

<p>K-4 is the most potent missile that India can fire from a submarine, giving the country unprecedented second-strike capability and huge deterrence power.</p>

<p>K-4 is being created by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) for being conveyed on the armada of the Arihant Class atomic submarines being made by India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India is relied upon to complete more trial of the missile before it is prepared for being equipped on the atomic submarines. Right now, just the main atomic pontoon INS Arihant is operational for the Navy.</p>

<p>K-4 is one of the two underwater missiles that are being developed. The other one is the over 700-kilometre strike range BO-5 missile<em>.</em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from ANI)</em></p>


India successfully test-fires the 3,500 km strike range nuclear-capable K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile off the coast of Andhra Pradesh on Sunday. This nuclear-capable missile meant for Arihant submarine and will strengthen its capabilities to hit enemy targets from submarines.

India successfully test-fires the 3,500 km strike range nuclear-capable K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile off the coast of Andhra Pradesh on Sunday. This nuclear-capable missile meant for Arihant submarine and will strengthen its capabilities to hit enemy targets from submarines. K-4 is the most potent missile that India can fire from a submarine, giving the country unprecedented second-strike capability and huge deterrence power. K-4 is being created by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) for being conveyed on the armada of the Arihant Class atomic submarines being made by India. India is relied upon to complete more trial of the missile before it is prepared for being equipped on the atomic submarines. Right now, just the main atomic pontoon INS Arihant is operational for the Navy. K-4 is one of the two underwater missiles that are being developed. The other one is the over 700-kilometre strike range BO-5 missile. (With inputs from ANI)

India test-fires nuclear-capable K-4 ballistic missile off Andhra Pradesh coast

After repeated delays, India successfully test-fired the 3,500 km range K-4 nuclear-capable missile meant for the indigenous Arihant-class submarines. The missile was tested on January 19 from a fixed underwater pontoon on the east coast of Andhra Pradesh.

India test fires K-4 missile for Arihant submarine

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjps-public-campaign-on-citizenship-amendment-act-to-begin-from-today-272261">Bharatiya Janata Party</a>&nbsp;and actor-turned-politician Pawan Kalyan's Jana Sena Party (JSP) announced a coalition on Thursday.</p>

<p>The crucial announcement was made after a meeting in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heavy-rain-lashes-vijayawada-venue-of-andhra-pradesh-cm-swearing-in-ceremony-affected-222612">Vijayawada</a>, Andhra Pradesh on Thursday.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/setback-for-bjp-in-andhra-pradesh-as-party-mla-quits-191677">Setback for BJP in Andhra Pradesh as party MLA quits</a></strong></p>

<p>The alliance is a major political development that will chalk out the future of the two parties in Andhra Pradesh.</p>

<p>''The two parties will form the government in Andhra Pradesh in 2024. We will work together for the welfare of the people and the state,'' Kalyan said.</p>

<p>Previously, BJP's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bharatiya-janata-party-works-on-ideology-not-nepotism-jp-nadda-272321">JP Nadda</a>&nbsp;had met Pawan Kalyan on January 13 in New Delhi.</p>

<p>The two parties have come together to defeat their common enemy <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-pradesh-chief-minister-jagan-mohan-reddy-launches-ysr-vahana-mitra-scheme-253802">YSR Congress</a>&nbsp;in the state and emerge as a third alternative alter its proposal of shifting the state capital <a href="Andhra Pradesh: Farmers seek state BJP chief's support to oppose plan of three capitals">outside</a> Amaravati.</p>


Bharatiya Janata Party and actor-turned-politician Pawan Kalyan's Jana Sena Party (JSP) announced a coalition on Thursday. The crucial announcement was made after a meeting in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh on Thursday.

Bharatiya Janata Party and actor-turned-politician Pawan Kalyan's Jana Sena Party (JSP) announced a coalition on Thursday. The crucial announcement was made after a meeting in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh on Thursday. Also read: Setback for BJP in Andhra Pradesh as party MLA quits The alliance is a major political development that will chalk out the future of the two parties in Andhra Pradesh. ''The two parties will form the government in Andhra Pradesh in 2024. We will work together for the welfare of the people and the state,'' Kalyan said. Previously, BJP's JP Nadda had met Pawan Kalyan on January 13 in New Delhi. The two parties have come together to defeat their common enemy YSR Congress in the state and emerge as a third alternative alter its proposal of shifting the state capital outside Amaravati.

Andhra Pradesh: BJP, Jana Sena announce coalition to emerge as ‘third alternative’

<p>Farmers continued to protest for the third consecutive day here on Saturday against the GN Rao-led expert committee's report recommending three capitals for Andhra Pradesh.<br />
<br />
The farmers blocked roads and raised slogans against Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy even as they questioned the legality of the committee.<br />
<br />
The expert committee has recommended the Andhra Pradesh government to have decentralised development by having three capital cities for the legislature, executive and judiciary and put the available resources to best use taking into consideration concerns on environment and for balanced regional growth.<br />
<br />
Addressing the media, the committee members had said that Visakhapatnam will be the executive capital from where the Secretariat will function and will also have the Chief Minister's Office, while Amaravati will be the legislative capital and Kurnool will have the High Court with one Bench each at Amaravati and Visakhapatnam.<br />
<br />
The budget and winter sessions of the Assembly will be held at Amaravati and Visakhapatnam, and the Raj Bhavan and the Assembly will be located between Mangalagiri and Nagarjuna Univesity which is not flood-prone.</p>


Farmers continued to protest for the third consecutive day here on Saturday against the GN Rao-led expert committee's report recommending three capitals for Andhra Pradesh.

Farmers continued to protest for the third consecutive day here on Saturday against the GN Rao-led expert committee's report recommending three capitals for Andhra Pradesh. The farmers blocked roads and raised slogans against Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy even as they questioned the legality of the committee. The expert committee has recommended the Andhra Pradesh government to have decentralised development by having three capital cities for the legislature, executive and judiciary and put the available resources to best use taking into consideration concerns on environment and for balanced regional growth. Addressing the media, the committee members had said that Visakhapatnam will be the executive capital from where the Secretariat will function and will also have the Chief Minister's Office, while Amaravati will be the legislative capital and Kurnool will have the High Court with one Bench each at Amaravati and Visakhapatnam. The budget and winter sessions of the Assembly will be held at Amaravati and Visakhapatnam, and the Raj Bhavan and the Assembly will be located between Mangalagiri and Nagarjuna Univesity which is not flood-prone.

Andhra Pradesh: Farmers' protest against GN Rao Committee Report runs into day 3

<p>Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has reportedly said the state may have three capitals.</p>

<p>Speaking at a discussion on capital, Reddy cited the example of South Africa and said that the mindset of capital being at same place should change.</p>

<p>"Decentralised (capital) is a good concept. South Africa has three capitals. We too should change. We may set up legislative capital here (Amaravati). We may constitute Assembly here. We may set up Executive capital at Visakhapatnam. Officials may start working from there. High court may be set up in Kurnool. Thus legislative, executive, and judicial capitals may be set up at different places. We are in a condition to think of different possibilities. Probably, Andhra Pradesh may get three capitals," Reddy was quoted as saying.</p>

<p>Jagan stated that setting up executive capital at Visakhapatnam needs not much expenditure.</p>

<p>"That city has all facilities for employees to work. One metro rail is enough. We have to think seriously. For that sake, we already have constituted a committee. That committee is studying. It may submit its report within a week or 10 days. The committee is preparing a detailed report. We have to discuss in depth on it, take a good decision, and go ahead so that future generations will be benefitted," he added.</p>

<p>Replying to Reddy`s statement in the state Assembly, BJP leader GVL Narasimha Rao tweeted, "Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan has made a statement today in the state assembly about his plans for the state capital. On 28th August, I had predicted in a Press Conference that the state government has plans for a new capital city. #Amaravati."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;</em></p>


Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has reportedly said the state may have three capitals. Speaking at a discussion on capital, Reddy cited the example of South Africa and said that the mindset of capital being at same place should change.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has reportedly said the state may have three capitals. Speaking at a discussion on capital, Reddy cited the example of South Africa and said that the mindset of capital being at same place should change. "Decentralised (capital) is a good concept. South Africa has three capitals. We too should change. We may set up legislative capital here (Amaravati). We may constitute Assembly here. We may set up Executive capital at Visakhapatnam. Officials may start working from there. High court may be set up in Kurnool. Thus legislative, executive, and judicial capitals may be set up at different places. We are in a condition to think of different possibilities. Probably, Andhra Pradesh may get three capitals," Reddy was quoted as saying. Jagan stated that setting up executive capital at Visakhapatnam needs not much expenditure. "That city has all facilities for employees to work. One metro rail is enough. We have to think seriously. For that sake, we already have constituted a committee. That committee is studying. It may submit its report within a week or 10 days. The committee is preparing a detailed report. We have to discuss in depth on it, take a good decision, and go ahead so that future generations will be benefitted," he added. Replying to Reddy`s statement in the state Assembly, BJP leader GVL Narasimha Rao tweeted, "Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan has made a statement today in the state assembly about his plans for the state capital. On 28th August, I had predicted in a Press Conference that the state government has plans for a new capital city. #Amaravati." (With inputs from ANI)

Andhra CM Jagan Reddy proposes 3 capitals for Andhra Pradesh

<p>Andhra Pradesh DGP Gautam Damodar Sawang welcomed the new `AP Disha Act` passed by the state assembly on Friday.</p>

<p>Calling it as a historic move in the direction of the safety of women and children, the DGP said that this act will ensure speedy trial and stringent punishment.</p>

<p>The DGP said, "the act will come into force soon, once the parts that are related to the central government are given nod."</p>

<p>The state government is going to set up special courts for these cases which will be highly helpful in the speedy trial of the cases, he said.</p>

<p>Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Friday passed two Disha Bills which enable the death penalty for rape besides taking stringent action for crimes on women by setting up special courts to deal with such offences.</p>

<p>The AP Disha Bill prescribes life imprisonment for other sexual offences against children and includes Section 354 F and 354 G in IPC.</p>

<p>In cases of harassment of women through social or digital media, the Bill states two years imprisonment for the first conviction and four years for second and subsequent convictions.</p>

<p>For this a new Section 354 E will be added in IPC, 1860, a press note said.</p>

<p>To ensure a speedy trial, the state will set up exclusive special courts in all the 13 districts to deal with cases of offences against women and children including rape, acid attacks, stalking, voyeurism, social media harassment of women, sexual harassment and all cases under POCSO Act.</p>

<p>The state will also employ special Public Prosecutors and Special Police force dedicated to such crimes only.&nbsp;</p>


Andhra Pradesh DGP Gautam Damodar Sawang welcomed the new `AP Disha Act` passed by the state assembly on Friday. Calling it as a historic move in the direction of the safety of women and children, the DGP said that this act will ensure speedy trial and stringent punishment.

Andhra Pradesh DGP Gautam Damodar Sawang welcomed the new `AP Disha Act` passed by the state assembly on Friday. Calling it as a historic move in the direction of the safety of women and children, the DGP said that this act will ensure speedy trial and stringent punishment. The DGP said, "the act will come into force soon, once the parts that are related to the central government are given nod." The state government is going to set up special courts for these cases which will be highly helpful in the speedy trial of the cases, he said. Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Friday passed two Disha Bills which enable the death penalty for rape besides taking stringent action for crimes on women by setting up special courts to deal with such offences. The AP Disha Bill prescribes life imprisonment for other sexual offences against children and includes Section 354 F and 354 G in IPC. In cases of harassment of women through social or digital media, the Bill states two years imprisonment for the first conviction and four years for second and subsequent convictions. For this a new Section 354 E will be added in IPC, 1860, a press note said. To ensure a speedy trial, the state will set up exclusive special courts in all the 13 districts to deal with cases of offences against women and children including rape, acid attacks, stalking, voyeurism, social media harassment of women, sexual harassment and all cases under POCSO Act. The state will also employ special Public Prosecutors and Special Police force dedicated to such crimes only.

Andhra Pradesh DGP welcomes new AP Disha Act passed by State Assembly

<p>The Andhra Pradesh Assembly on Friday passed the 'Disha Bill'&nbsp;also known as the Andhra Pradesh Criminal Law (Amendment) Act 2019.</p>

<p>The bill provides for awarding death sentence for offences of rape and gang rape and expediting verdict in trials of such cases within 21 days.</p>

<p>Earlier on Wednesday. the Cabinet under Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy approved the enactment of the Disha Bill.</p>

<p>The passage of the Bill comes in the wake of the incident where a woman veterinarian was gang-raped and killed by four people before they burnt her body in Telangana's Shamshabad on November 27.</p>

<p>Her charred body was recovered a day later. On December 6, all the four accused -- Mohammed Arif, Naveen, Shiva, and Chennakeshavulu -- were killed in a police encounter.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Andhra Pradesh Assembly on Friday passed the 'Disha Bill' also known as the Andhra Pradesh Criminal Law (Amendment) Act 2019. The bill provides for awarding death sentence for offences of rape and gang rape and expediting verdict in trials of such cases within 21 days.

The Andhra Pradesh Assembly on Friday passed the 'Disha Bill' also known as the Andhra Pradesh Criminal Law (Amendment) Act 2019. The bill provides for awarding death sentence for offences of rape and gang rape and expediting verdict in trials of such cases within 21 days. Earlier on Wednesday. the Cabinet under Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy approved the enactment of the Disha Bill. The passage of the Bill comes in the wake of the incident where a woman veterinarian was gang-raped and killed by four people before they burnt her body in Telangana's Shamshabad on November 27. Her charred body was recovered a day later. On December 6, all the four accused -- Mohammed Arif, Naveen, Shiva, and Chennakeshavulu -- were killed in a police encounter.

Andhra Assembly passes Disha Bill to provide stricter rape offences

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/1000-confident-telugu-desam-party-will-win-elections-in-andhra-pradesh-naidu-220123">Telugu Desam Party</a> (TDP) leaders under the aegis of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/andhra-chief-minister-n-chandrababu-naidu-to-meet-election-commission-today-219381">N Chandrababu Naidu</a> protested against the YSRCP led state government and Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/press-council-of-india-expresses-concern-over-andhra-govts-order-granting-permission-to-initiate-action-against-defamatory-news-259596">Jagan Mohan Reddy</a>, alleging that the state dispensation has curtailed the press-freedom by "not allowing some media channels to cover the proceedings of the Assembly".</p>

<p>"Today it is a black day for democracy. The very freedom for what we fought during independence is being curtailed. The ruling party here has stopped almost three Press from not entering the premises.</p>

<p>However, those who listen to the government are being allowed while those who give way to the truth are not being allowed. This is targeting basic freedom of expression," said Deepak Reddy, TDP, MLC.</p>

<p>"In a democracy, the press has got a lot of importance. In Andhra Pradesh democracy is regularly threatened by Jagan Mohan Reddy. In assembly proceedings, they have banned three TV from covering. TDP is protesting to lift the ban," said Gadde Rammohan, TDP MLA.</p>

<p>The TDP leaders also held a protest march led by party chief N Chandrababu Naidu, who refused to comment on the matter.</p>

<p>The winter session of Andhra Pradesh Assembly started on Monday.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leaders under the aegis of N Chandrababu Naidu protested against the YSRCP led state government and Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy, alleging that the state dispensation has curtailed the press-freedom by "not allowing some media channels to cover the proceedings of the Assembly".

Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leaders under the aegis of N Chandrababu Naidu protested against the YSRCP led state government and Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy, alleging that the state dispensation has curtailed the press-freedom by "not allowing some media channels to cover the proceedings of the Assembly". "Today it is a black day for democracy. The very freedom for what we fought during independence is being curtailed. The ruling party here has stopped almost three Press from not entering the premises. However, those who listen to the government are being allowed while those who give way to the truth are not being allowed. This is targeting basic freedom of expression," said Deepak Reddy, TDP, MLC. "In a democracy, the press has got a lot of importance. In Andhra Pradesh democracy is regularly threatened by Jagan Mohan Reddy. In assembly proceedings, they have banned three TV from covering. TDP is protesting to lift the ban," said Gadde Rammohan, TDP MLA. The TDP leaders also held a protest march led by party chief N Chandrababu Naidu, who refused to comment on the matter. The winter session of Andhra Pradesh Assembly started on Monday.

Andhra Pradesh: Telugu Desam Party protest against alleged ban on assembly proceedings coverage

<p>The Andhra Pradesh government issued a financial order for extending financial assistance to Hajj pilgrims for expenses other than travel expenditure.</p>

<p>"The assistance will be Rs 60,000 for pilgrims having an annual income less than Rs 3 lakhs, and Rs 30,000 for pilgrims having annual income more than Rs 3 lakhs. The expenditure shall be met from the BE 2019-20 of Andhra Pradesh Hajj Committee for this scheme," read a release by the state government on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Apart from this, the Andhra Pradesh Hajj Committee has also made arrangements for free accommodation and food to Hajj pilgrims from the time of their reporting to the Hajj camp to their departure on the pilgrimage.</p>

<p>The Hajj is an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/2-million-pilgrims-begin-annual-hajj-in-mecca-241896">annual Islamic pilgrimage</a> to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, the holiest city for Muslims. It is scheduled to begin on July 28 and will come to an end on August 2 in 2020.</p>


The Andhra Pradesh government issued a financial order for extending financial assistance to Hajj pilgrims for expenses other than travel expenditure. "The assistance will be Rs 60,000 for pilgrims having an annual income less than Rs 3 lakhs, and Rs 30,000 for pilgrims having annual income more than Rs 3 lakhs.

The Andhra Pradesh government issued a financial order for extending financial assistance to Hajj pilgrims for expenses other than travel expenditure. "The assistance will be Rs 60,000 for pilgrims having an annual income less than Rs 3 lakhs, and Rs 30,000 for pilgrims having annual income more than Rs 3 lakhs. The expenditure shall be met from the BE 2019-20 of Andhra Pradesh Hajj Committee for this scheme," read a release by the state government on Tuesday. Apart from this, the Andhra Pradesh Hajj Committee has also made arrangements for free accommodation and food to Hajj pilgrims from the time of their reporting to the Hajj camp to their departure on the pilgrimage. The Hajj is an annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, the holiest city for Muslims. It is scheduled to begin on July 28 and will come to an end on August 2 in 2020.

Andhra government extends financial assistance to Hajj pilgrims

<p>The Press Council of India (PCI) chairman Justice Chandramauli Kumar Prasad has expressed grave concern over the order issued by the Andhra Pradesh government granting permission to the Secretaries of respective departments to initiate legal action with regard to publication of false, baseless and defamatory news items against the print media through the public prosecutor.</p>

<p>"The Chairman is of the view that the threat to prosecute media personnel, in general, shall demoralize the journalists in large which shall have a severe bearing on the freedom of the press. Not only this the problems which the order in question seek to redress can very well be remedied by the Council itself," read a statement from the Press Council of India.</p>

<p>"While taking suo-motu cognizance of the issue, the Chairman has directed the government of Andhra Pradesh through its Chief Secretary and Special Commissioner (I&amp;PR) to file reply statement in this matter," the statement added.</p>

<p>The YS Jagan Mohan Reddy-led Andhra Pradesh Government had on October 30 issued an order delegating powers to the secretaries of respective departments to lodge complaints and file appropriate legal cases through public prosecutor against false, baseless and defamatory news items published, telecast or posted in print, electronic and social media.</p>

<p>This was the advancement of the government order number 938 released in 2007, which empowered I&amp;PR Commissioner to lodge a complaint and file defamation cases against publishers and editors.</p>

<p>Now the same powers are extended and delegated to the secretaries of respective departments."Instances have come to the notice of the government that certain print, electronic and social media are deliberately trying to tarnish the image of government officials by spreading false, baseless and defamatory news with malafide interest," the government order read.</p>

<p>"After careful examination of the matter, Government hereby accord permission to delegate powers to the Secretaries of respective departments to issue rejoinders, file complaints and lodge appropriate cases, if need be, through public prosecutor against defamatory news items published/telecast/posted in print/electronic/social media pertaining to their respective departments after following due process of law," it added.</p>

<p>Later, political parties accused the government over this order, while the government defending its actions by stating that this is a mere delegation of powers to department secretaries, which already existent with the I&amp;PR Commissioner.</p>

<p>Former Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu tweeted, "The right to question, criticize and showcase the failures of a government is fundamental to democracy. YS Jagan Mohan Reddy's government has today issued the draconian GO 2430 that aims to curb freedom of expression in Andhra Pradesh. This is meant to stifle people's voice on social media."In another tweet, he added, "Prodded by the YSRCP, the Police will now be able to foist false cases to harass media institutions and people who are showcasing the many failures of the government. If necessary, we will take the fight to the streets until this oppressive GO is cancelled!"</p>

<p>Senior BJP leader Lanka Dinakar also strongly condemned the "attack" on journalists and restrictions on media in the state."Article 19 of our Constitution allows freedom of speech and expression. It stands for the freedom of the fourth estate. Article 21 of the Constitution gives us the right to life and personal liberty," he said.</p>

<p>Dinakar added, "The state government has curtailed the voice of media by imposing conditions and restrictions''</p>


The Press Council of India (PCI) chairman Justice Chandramauli Kumar Prasad has expressed grave concern over the order issued by the Andhra Pradesh government granting permission to the Secretaries of respective departments to initiate legal action with regard to publication of false, baseless and defamatory news items against the print media through the public prosecutor.

The Press Council of India (PCI) chairman Justice Chandramauli Kumar Prasad has expressed grave concern over the order issued by the Andhra Pradesh government granting permission to the Secretaries of respective departments to initiate legal action with regard to publication of false, baseless and defamatory news items against the print media through the public prosecutor. "The Chairman is of the view that the threat to prosecute media personnel, in general, shall demoralize the journalists in large which shall have a severe bearing on the freedom of the press. Not only this the problems which the order in question seek to redress can very well be remedied by the Council itself," read a statement from the Press Council of India. "While taking suo-motu cognizance of the issue, the Chairman has directed the government of Andhra Pradesh through its Chief Secretary and Special Commissioner (I&PR) to file reply statement in this matter," the statement added. The YS Jagan Mohan Reddy-led Andhra Pradesh Government had on October 30 issued an order delegating powers to the secretaries of respective departments to lodge complaints and file appropriate legal cases through public prosecutor against false, baseless and defamatory news items published, telecast or posted in print, electronic and social media. This was the advancement of the government order number 938 released in 2007, which empowered I&PR Commissioner to lodge a complaint and file defamation cases against publishers and editors. Now the same powers are extended and delegated to the secretaries of respective departments."Instances have come to the notice of the government that certain print, electronic and social media are deliberately trying to tarnish the image of government officials by spreading false, baseless and defamatory news with malafide interest," the government order read. "After careful examination of the matter, Government hereby accord permission to delegate powers to the Secretaries of respective departments to issue rejoinders, file complaints and lodge appropriate cases, if need be, through public prosecutor against defamatory news items published/telecast/posted in print/electronic/social media pertaining to their respective departments after following due process of law," it added. Later, political parties accused the government over this order, while the government defending its actions by stating that this is a mere delegation of powers to department secretaries, which already existent with the I&PR Commissioner. Former Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu tweeted, "The right to question, criticize and showcase the failures of a government is fundamental to democracy. YS Jagan Mohan Reddy's government has today issued the draconian GO 2430 that aims to curb freedom of expression in Andhra Pradesh. This is meant to stifle people's voice on social media."In another tweet, he added, "Prodded by the YSRCP, the Police will now be able to foist false cases to harass media institutions and people who are showcasing the many failures of the government. If necessary, we will take the fight to the streets until this oppressive GO is cancelled!" Senior BJP leader Lanka Dinakar also strongly condemned the "attack" on journalists and restrictions on media in the state."Article 19 of our Constitution allows freedom of speech and expression. It stands for the freedom of the fourth estate. Article 21 of the Constitution gives us the right to life and personal liberty," he said. Dinakar added, "The state government has curtailed the voice of media by imposing conditions and restrictions''

PCI expresses concern over Andhra Pradesh govt's proposed action against 'defamatory news'

<p>The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday said places over Coastal Karnataka, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam are likely to receive heavy rainfall today.</p>

<p>The weather forecast agency further predicted that heavy downpour is also likely to batter Odisha, Konkan, Goa, Telangana, Rayalaseema, Interior Karnataka, Kerala and Mahe.</p>

<p>Apart from these places, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Maharashtra, Marathwada and Tamilnadu, Puducherry and Karaikal are also likely to receive heavy rainfall throughout the day, the IMD stated in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin.</p>

<p>In Delhi, the sky will mainly be clear with the maximum and minimum temperatures hovering around 32 degrees Celsius and 23 degrees Celsius.</p>

<p>The thunderstorm accompanied by lightning is very likely at isolated places over Jammu and Kashmir, Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Gangetic and West Bengal.</p>

<p>Also, the strong winds (speed reaching 45-55 kmph) very likely over the east-central Arabian Sea.</p>

<p>A squally weather along Maharashtra-GoaKarnataka-Kerala coasts, Lakshadweep area and north Tamil Nadu-Andhra Pradesh-Odisha coasts.</p>

<p>The organisation had advised fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next couple of days.</p>

<p>The IMD further stated in its advisory that a well-marked low-pressure area over central parts of the Arabian Sea with the associated cyclonic circulation extending up to 4.5 km above mean sea level persists.</p>

<p>"It is very likely to concentrate into a depression during the next 36 hours. It is likely to move initially east-northeastwards over the east-central Arabian Sea till October 25 and then west-northwestwards with gradual intensification," the weather forecast agency stated.</p>


The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday said places over Coastal Karnataka, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam are likely to receive heavy rainfall today.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday said places over Coastal Karnataka, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam are likely to receive heavy rainfall today. The weather forecast agency further predicted that heavy downpour is also likely to batter Odisha, Konkan, Goa, Telangana, Rayalaseema, Interior Karnataka, Kerala and Mahe. Apart from these places, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Maharashtra, Marathwada and Tamilnadu, Puducherry and Karaikal are also likely to receive heavy rainfall throughout the day, the IMD stated in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin. In Delhi, the sky will mainly be clear with the maximum and minimum temperatures hovering around 32 degrees Celsius and 23 degrees Celsius. The thunderstorm accompanied by lightning is very likely at isolated places over Jammu and Kashmir, Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Gangetic and West Bengal. Also, the strong winds (speed reaching 45-55 kmph) very likely over the east-central Arabian Sea. A squally weather along Maharashtra-GoaKarnataka-Kerala coasts, Lakshadweep area and north Tamil Nadu-Andhra Pradesh-Odisha coasts. The organisation had advised fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next couple of days. The IMD further stated in its advisory that a well-marked low-pressure area over central parts of the Arabian Sea with the associated cyclonic circulation extending up to 4.5 km above mean sea level persists. "It is very likely to concentrate into a depression during the next 36 hours. It is likely to move initially east-northeastwards over the east-central Arabian Sea till October 25 and then west-northwestwards with gradual intensification," the weather forecast agency stated.

Coastal Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh likely to receive heavy rainfall: IMD

<p>Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the national capital on Tuesday and discussed various issues related to Andhra Pradesh, including the demand for granting special category status to the state, in a meeting which lasted close to 45 minutes.</p>

<p>Asserting that the bifurcation of the state had adversely affected industrial and service sectors in Andhra Pradesh, Reddy appealed to Shah to give special category status to the state in order for it to face the stiff competition it is facing from nearby Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru among others.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He emphasised that the special category status is needed for the development of the industries in Andhra.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reddy also appealed to the Union Home Minister to direct the finance ministry for hasty clearance of the revenue deficit of Andhra Pradesh for the year 2014-15 which has been pending since long.</p>

<p>The demand for the construction of a steel plant at Kadapa district and seaport at Ramayapatnam in Prakasam district apart from providing funds for completion of the Visakhapatnam Chennai Industrial Corridor (VCIC) and Kakinada Petro Chemical Complex projects was made by the chief minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from demanding money for backward districts, Reddy also requested the Home Minister`s nod for the revised estimates of Rs 55 thousand crore for the Polavaram project.&nbsp;</p>


Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the national capital on Tuesday and discussed various issues related to Andhra Pradesh, including the demand for granting special category status to the state, in a meeting which lasted close to 45 minutes.

Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the national capital on Tuesday and discussed various issues related to Andhra Pradesh, including the demand for granting special category status to the state, in a meeting which lasted close to 45 minutes. Asserting that the bifurcation of the state had adversely affected industrial and service sectors in Andhra Pradesh, Reddy appealed to Shah to give special category status to the state in order for it to face the stiff competition it is facing from nearby Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru among others. He emphasised that the special category status is needed for the development of the industries in Andhra. Reddy also appealed to the Union Home Minister to direct the finance ministry for hasty clearance of the revenue deficit of Andhra Pradesh for the year 2014-15 which has been pending since long. The demand for the construction of a steel plant at Kadapa district and seaport at Ramayapatnam in Prakasam district apart from providing funds for completion of the Visakhapatnam Chennai Industrial Corridor (VCIC) and Kakinada Petro Chemical Complex projects was made by the chief minister. Apart from demanding money for backward districts, Reddy also requested the Home Minister`s nod for the revised estimates of Rs 55 thousand crore for the Polavaram project.

Delhi: Jagan Mohan Reddy meets Amit Shah, raises demand for special category status for Andhra Pradesh

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