Apart from Sikkim, Mizoram and Nagaland that account for one Lok Sabha seat each, Andhra Pradesh is the only major state where both the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and United Progressive Alliance (UPA), have bitten the electoral dust.&nbsp;

Andhra Pradesh, which sends 25 MPs to the Lok Sabha, also witnessed a simultaneous Assembly election in which both Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) were wiped out.&nbsp;

Former chief minister, N Chandrababu Naidu, who was trying to garner the support of regional parties to stitch the third front, suffered a humiliating loss after his Telugu Desam Party (TDP) got just 23 out of 175 Assembly seats in AP.&nbsp;

YSR Congress swept both Assembly as well as Lok Sabha polls with one-sided victories of on 22 Lok Sabha and 151 Assembly constituencies. &nbsp;

In 2014, the erstwhile united Andhra Pradesh was bifurcated and Telangana was carved out of it. The Telangana region in the erstwhile Andhra had suffered years of neglect during Chandrababu Naidu’s regime, which only focused on developing Hyderabad. Following the bitter bifurcation, Andhra Pradesh lost its cash cow - Hyderabad.

While the state was being bifurcated, the then Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh, promised Special Category Status (SCS) to Andhra Pradesh, post the division.&nbsp;

The promise was made on the floor of the Rajya Sabha, but there was no mention of it in the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014.&nbsp;

After the NDA government assumed power, the promise made by the previous UPA regime was not fulfilled on technical grounds. However, the NDA announced a special package for the state, which was accepted by TDP-led state government.&nbsp;

But soon, the political discourse in the state changed with Jagan’s YSRC picking up the issue of Centre’s apparent betrayal over its SCS promise. &nbsp;

Former Union finance minister Arun Jaitley even went to the extent of assuring that special package was better than SCS and there was basically no difference between the two.&nbsp;

However, regional sentiments were worked up against the Centre. Jagan, who walked over 3,600 km across AP during his ‘praja Sankalpa yatra’, raised the SCS issue at his public meets.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, TDP, then a part of the NDA, snapped its ties with the BJP. Naidu and his MPs even staged protests across AP and even in the national capital. &nbsp;

The criteria for granting SCS to a state includes parameters like hilly and difficult terrain, strategic locations along the country’s borders, low population density and economic and infrastructure inadequacies, among others. It was first introduced in 1969 to provide certain disadvantaged states with benefits in the form of central assistance and tax breaks. So far, 11 states have been granted the SCS.

In 2013, a panel headed by the then chief economic advisor Raghuram Rajan, recommended a new index of backwardness to determine which states need special assistance.&nbsp;

On the allocation of central funds, the report suggested that each state should get a basic fixed allocation of 0.3 per cent of the overall funds and an additional allocation depending on its development needs and performance, thus subsuming the concept of SCS.&nbsp;

Naidu repeated the same mistake in 2014, which caused his debacle in 2004. In 2014, Naidu, after becoming the first chief minister of newly bifurcated Andhra, dedicated his entire focus in building Amaravati as a commercial hub and the new capital city, without settling other issues with Telangana and developing the rest of Andhra. He was also too late to react over the SCS issue.&nbsp;

As sentiments in AP were already inflamed against both UPA and NDA regimes over alleged betrayal on SCS promise, Jagan was seen as the most suitable option.&nbsp;

The way ahead for Jagan, however, is not easy, as he has no leverage to pressure the BJP-led government at the Centre over his demand. The Centre fears that if AP is offered SCS as a special case, other states would follow suit.&nbsp;Jagan had raised the issue at his very first meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The newly appointed CM has asked officials to prepare a report to be placed before the 15th Finance Commission, stressing the need for SCS. He has made it clear that he will not just let go off the SCS, but there’s only little that he can do.&nbsp; 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-naidu-s-downfall-and-ap-s-fight-for-special-category-status-2759006">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Apart from Sikkim, Mizoram and Nagaland that account for one Lok Sabha seat each, Andhra Pradesh is the only major state where both the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and United Progressive Alliance (UPA), have bitten the electoral dust.

Apart from Sikkim, Mizoram and Nagaland that account for one Lok Sabha seat each, Andhra Pradesh is the only major state where both the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and United Progressive Alliance (UPA), have bitten the electoral dust. Andhra Pradesh, which sends 25 MPs to the Lok Sabha, also witnessed a simultaneous Assembly election in which both Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) were wiped out. Former chief minister, N Chandrababu Naidu, who was trying to garner the support of regional parties to stitch the third front, suffered a humiliating loss after his Telugu Desam Party (TDP) got just 23 out of 175 Assembly seats in AP. YSR Congress swept both Assembly as well as Lok Sabha polls with one-sided victories of on 22 Lok Sabha and 151 Assembly constituencies. In 2014, the erstwhile united Andhra Pradesh was bifurcated and Telangana was carved out of it. The Telangana region in the erstwhile Andhra had suffered years of neglect during Chandrababu Naidu’s regime, which only focused on developing Hyderabad. Following the bitter bifurcation, Andhra Pradesh lost its cash cow - Hyderabad. While the state was being bifurcated, the then Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh, promised Special Category Status (SCS) to Andhra Pradesh, post the division. The promise was made on the floor of the Rajya Sabha, but there was no mention of it in the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014. After the NDA government assumed power, the promise made by the previous UPA regime was not fulfilled on technical grounds. However, the NDA announced a special package for the state, which was accepted by TDP-led state government. But soon, the political discourse in the state changed with Jagan’s YSRC picking up the issue of Centre’s apparent betrayal over its SCS promise. Former Union finance minister Arun Jaitley even went to the extent of assuring that special package was better than SCS and there was basically no difference between the two. However, regional sentiments were worked up against the Centre. Jagan, who walked over 3,600 km across AP during his ‘praja Sankalpa yatra’, raised the SCS issue at his public meets. Meanwhile, TDP, then a part of the NDA, snapped its ties with the BJP. Naidu and his MPs even staged protests across AP and even in the national capital. The criteria for granting SCS to a state includes parameters like hilly and difficult terrain, strategic locations along the country’s borders, low population density and economic and infrastructure inadequacies, among others. It was first introduced in 1969 to provide certain disadvantaged states with benefits in the form of central assistance and tax breaks. So far, 11 states have been granted the SCS. In 2013, a panel headed by the then chief economic advisor Raghuram Rajan, recommended a new index of backwardness to determine which states need special assistance. On the allocation of central funds, the report suggested that each state should get a basic fixed allocation of 0.3 per cent of the overall funds and an additional allocation depending on its development needs and performance, thus subsuming the concept of SCS. Naidu repeated the same mistake in 2014, which caused his debacle in 2004. In 2014, Naidu, after becoming the first chief minister of newly bifurcated Andhra, dedicated his entire focus in building Amaravati as a commercial hub and the new capital city, without settling other issues with Telangana and developing the rest of Andhra. He was also too late to react over the SCS issue. As sentiments in AP were already inflamed against both UPA and NDA regimes over alleged betrayal on SCS promise, Jagan was seen as the most suitable option. The way ahead for Jagan, however, is not easy, as he has no leverage to pressure the BJP-led government at the Centre over his demand. The Centre fears that if AP is offered SCS as a special case, other states would follow suit. Jagan had raised the issue at his very first meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The newly appointed CM has asked officials to prepare a report to be placed before the 15th Finance Commission, stressing the need for SCS. He has made it clear that he will not just let go off the SCS, but there’s only little that he can do. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Andhra Pradesh’s fight for Special Category Status: Tough road ahead for Jagan Mohan Reddy

In what the YSR Congress called a "socially-inclusive Cabinet," 25 new ministers were Saturday inducted into the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-chief-minister-jagan-mohan-reddy-to-have-five-deputy-cms-in-cabinet-225182">Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy's Council of Ministers</a> in Andhra Pradesh.

In line with his electoral promise, Jagan Mohan Reddy gave Cabinet berths to seven legislators from the backward classes, five from the Scheduled Castes, one each from the Scheduled Tribes and Muslims, and four each from the Kapu and the Reddy communities.

The Kamma community, which dominated the previous Chandrababu Naidu Cabinet, got just one berth now. The Kshatriya and the Vysya communities also got one berth each.

State Governor E S L Narasimhan administered the oath of office and secrecy to the new ministers at a glittering public function adjacent to the Secretariat at Velagapudi in capital Amaravati.

The 26-member Cabinet, including the Chief Minister, has three women members; two from the Scheduled Castes and one from the Scheduled Tribes.

Jagan brought back senior leaders Botsa Satyanarayana, Pilli Subhash Chandra Bose, Pinipe Viswaroop, Mopidevi Venkata Ramana Rao, Balineni Srinivasa Reddy and Peddireddi Ramachandra Reddy, who worked as ministers in his late father Y S Rajasekhara Reddy's Cabinet in the erstwhile united Andhra Pradesh.

In fact, Balineni Srinivasa Reddy and Pilli Subhash Chandra Bose resigned from their Cabinet posts in the then Congress government and joined the YSRC floated by Jagan and have been sailing with him for the past eight years.

Mopidevi Venkata Ramana Rao, while serving as minister in the then Kiran Kumar Reddy government, was arrested in connection with YSRC chief's disproportionate assets case in 2012 and jailed for several months. Jagan subsequently joined Ramana Rao in jail.

Ramana Rao, who belongs to the fishermen community, lost the recent Assembly election from Repalle constituency but got a Cabinet berth and will be nominated to the Legislative Council.

East Godavari, West Godavari and Krishna districts, where the YSRC bagged sizeable number of seats, got three Cabinet berths each.

Kurnool, Chittoor, SPS Nellore, Prakasam, Guntur and Vizianagaram districts got two each while Anantapuramu, Kadapa, Visakhapatnam and Srikakulam got one each.

Meanwhile, G Srikanth Reddy, one of the legislators close to Jagan Mohan Reddy, who could not be accommodated in the Cabinet because of caste calculations, has been appointed as the Government Chief Whip in the Assembly with a Cabinet rank.&nbsp;

In what the YSR Congress called a "socially-inclusive Cabinet," 25 new ministers were Saturday inducted into the Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy's Council of Ministers in Andhra Pradesh.

In what the YSR Congress called a "socially-inclusive Cabinet," 25 new ministers were Saturday inducted into the Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy's Council of Ministers in Andhra Pradesh. In line with his electoral promise, Jagan Mohan Reddy gave Cabinet berths to seven legislators from the backward classes, five from the Scheduled Castes, one each from the Scheduled Tribes and Muslims, and four each from the Kapu and the Reddy communities. The Kamma community, which dominated the previous Chandrababu Naidu Cabinet, got just one berth now. The Kshatriya and the Vysya communities also got one berth each. State Governor E S L Narasimhan administered the oath of office and secrecy to the new ministers at a glittering public function adjacent to the Secretariat at Velagapudi in capital Amaravati. The 26-member Cabinet, including the Chief Minister, has three women members; two from the Scheduled Castes and one from the Scheduled Tribes. Jagan brought back senior leaders Botsa Satyanarayana, Pilli Subhash Chandra Bose, Pinipe Viswaroop, Mopidevi Venkata Ramana Rao, Balineni Srinivasa Reddy and Peddireddi Ramachandra Reddy, who worked as ministers in his late father Y S Rajasekhara Reddy's Cabinet in the erstwhile united Andhra Pradesh. In fact, Balineni Srinivasa Reddy and Pilli Subhash Chandra Bose resigned from their Cabinet posts in the then Congress government and joined the YSRC floated by Jagan and have been sailing with him for the past eight years. Mopidevi Venkata Ramana Rao, while serving as minister in the then Kiran Kumar Reddy government, was arrested in connection with YSRC chief's disproportionate assets case in 2012 and jailed for several months. Jagan subsequently joined Ramana Rao in jail. Ramana Rao, who belongs to the fishermen community, lost the recent Assembly election from Repalle constituency but got a Cabinet berth and will be nominated to the Legislative Council. East Godavari, West Godavari and Krishna districts, where the YSRC bagged sizeable number of seats, got three Cabinet berths each. Kurnool, Chittoor, SPS Nellore, Prakasam, Guntur and Vizianagaram districts got two each while Anantapuramu, Kadapa, Visakhapatnam and Srikakulam got one each. Meanwhile, G Srikanth Reddy, one of the legislators close to Jagan Mohan Reddy, who could not be accommodated in the Cabinet because of caste calculations, has been appointed as the Government Chief Whip in the Assembly with a Cabinet rank.

25 new ministers inducted into Jagan Mohan Reddy's Cabinet in Andhra Pradesh

India still held hostage to caste politics. Different Deputy CMs represent different castes in Andhra Pradesh. Cabinet to be announced on Saturday. Jagan Mohan Reddy got 151 seats in recent Assembly Election in Andhra Pradesh.

India Watch: Jagan To have 5 Deputy CMs

In what could be an unprecedented move, Andhra Pradesh chief minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy Friday decided to have five deputy CMs under him in a full 25-member Cabinet.

The new Council of Ministers will be constituted at a public function in Amravati on&nbsp;Saturday.

The Chief Minister held a meeting of the YSR Congress Legislature Party at his residence in the morning where he announced the decision to appoint five deputy chief ministers.

Accordingly, one each from SC, ST, BC, minority and Kapu communities would be made deputy CMs.

He also told his legislators that the Cabinet would predominantly comprise members from the weaker sections, contrary to expectations that the Reddy community would get a lion's share.

He said the Cabinet would be reconstituted two and a half years later after a mid-term review of the government's performance.

In the previous N Chandrababu Naidu government, one each from, Kapu and BC communities was made deputy chief minister.

Japan's decision to have five deputies is seen as a revolutionary step that is aimed at keeping those communities in good humour.&nbsp;

In what could be an unprecedented move, Andhra Pradesh chief minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy Friday decided to have five deputy CMs under him in a full 25-member Cabinet.

In what could be an unprecedented move, Andhra Pradesh chief minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy Friday decided to have five deputy CMs under him in a full 25-member Cabinet. The new Council of Ministers will be constituted at a public function in Amravati on Saturday. The Chief Minister held a meeting of the YSR Congress Legislature Party at his residence in the morning where he announced the decision to appoint five deputy chief ministers. Accordingly, one each from SC, ST, BC, minority and Kapu communities would be made deputy CMs. He also told his legislators that the Cabinet would predominantly comprise members from the weaker sections, contrary to expectations that the Reddy community would get a lion's share. He said the Cabinet would be reconstituted two and a half years later after a mid-term review of the government's performance. In the previous N Chandrababu Naidu government, one each from, Kapu and BC communities was made deputy chief minister. Japan's decision to have five deputies is seen as a revolutionary step that is aimed at keeping those communities in good humour.

Andhra Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy to have five deputies in Cabinet

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-will-try-to-serve-andhra-pradesh-better-than-my-father-chief-minister-jagan-mohan-reddy-224009">YS Jagan Mohan Reddy government</a> Thursday cancelled a controversial government order issued by the previous Chandrababu Naidu-led dispensation, paving the way for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe various cases in Andhra Pradesh.

On November 8, 2018, the ruling Telugu Desam Party had issued a government order (GO) withdrawing the "general consent" accorded to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to carry out investigations and raids in the state.

"In exercise of the powers conferred by Section 6 of the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946, the government hereby withdraws the general consent accorded (in GO Ms 109) to all the members of the Delhi Special Police Establishment to exercise the powers and jurisdiction under the said&nbsp; 
Act in the state of Andhra Pradesh," the GO had said.

The then Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister (Home) N China Rajappa had said the reason to withdraw the consent was allegations against the top officials of the country's premier investigation agency.

The Andhra Pradesh government bestowed powers upon itself to launch a corruption probe against central government employees as well through the state's Anti-Corruption Bureau.

The YSR Congress Party that assumed power on May 30, issued a fresh order Thursday cancelling the GO 176 issued on November 8.

Based on the directions of Jagan Mohan Reddy, Special Chief Secretary Manmohan Singh issued GO 81 to this effect.

"The order issued on November 8, 2018 is hereby cancelled under the provisions of the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946," it said. 
The CBI will now have all powers to take up corruption and other cases in AP.

The premier investigative agency functions under the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act.

Under Section 6 of the Act, a state government "routinely" grants consent to the CBI for exercising its authority in the state and the AP government, too, had issued relevant orders periodically.

Ever since he snapped ties with the Narendra Modi-led NDA government in March last year, Naidu had been alleging that the Centre was misusing agencies like the CBI to target political opponents.

The raids by Income Tax authorities on some business establishments, run by those close to the ruling Telugu Desam Party in the state, had left Naidu red-faced.

Subsequently, he announced that his government would not provide police cover to the IT officials for conducting the raids.

The state government's move was seen as further intensification of confrontation between the Modi government and Naidu, who was striving to forge a non-BJP front to take on the saffron party in 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

Opposition parties decried the move and asserted the state government did not have the authority to bar the CBI.

The YSR Congress, the main opposition party then, had alleged the controversial decision was taken only because the chief minister was scared of the CBI.

The YS Jagan Mohan Reddy government Thursday cancelled a controversial government order issued by the previous Chandrababu Naidu-led dispensation, paving the way for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe various cases in Andhra Pradesh.

The YS Jagan Mohan Reddy government Thursday cancelled a controversial government order issued by the previous Chandrababu Naidu-led dispensation, paving the way for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe various cases in Andhra Pradesh. On November 8, 2018, the ruling Telugu Desam Party had issued a government order (GO) withdrawing the "general consent" accorded to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to carry out investigations and raids in the state. "In exercise of the powers conferred by Section 6 of the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946, the government hereby withdraws the general consent accorded (in GO Ms 109) to all the members of the Delhi Special Police Establishment to exercise the powers and jurisdiction under the said Act in the state of Andhra Pradesh," the GO had said. The then Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister (Home) N China Rajappa had said the reason to withdraw the consent was allegations against the top officials of the country's premier investigation agency. The Andhra Pradesh government bestowed powers upon itself to launch a corruption probe against central government employees as well through the state's Anti-Corruption Bureau. The YSR Congress Party that assumed power on May 30, issued a fresh order Thursday cancelling the GO 176 issued on November 8. Based on the directions of Jagan Mohan Reddy, Special Chief Secretary Manmohan Singh issued GO 81 to this effect. "The order issued on November 8, 2018 is hereby cancelled under the provisions of the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946," it said. The CBI will now have all powers to take up corruption and other cases in AP. The premier investigative agency functions under the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act. Under Section 6 of the Act, a state government "routinely" grants consent to the CBI for exercising its authority in the state and the AP government, too, had issued relevant orders periodically. Ever since he snapped ties with the Narendra Modi-led NDA government in March last year, Naidu had been alleging that the Centre was misusing agencies like the CBI to target political opponents. The raids by Income Tax authorities on some business establishments, run by those close to the ruling Telugu Desam Party in the state, had left Naidu red-faced. Subsequently, he announced that his government would not provide police cover to the IT officials for conducting the raids. The state government's move was seen as further intensification of confrontation between the Modi government and Naidu, who was striving to forge a non-BJP front to take on the saffron party in 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Opposition parties decried the move and asserted the state government did not have the authority to bar the CBI. The YSR Congress, the main opposition party then, had alleged the controversial decision was taken only because the chief minister was scared of the CBI.

Andhra Pradesh CM Jagan Reddy reverses Naidu government order, allows CBI to conduct probe in the state

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-metoric-rise-of-ys-jaganmohan-reddy-222617">Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy</a> on Monday said that he would try to serve the state better than his father YS Rajasekhar Reddy.

"I will try to serve the state better than my father YS Rajasekhar Reddy," he said, while wishing Muslims of the state 'Eid Mubarak'&nbsp;in advance at an 'Iftar'&nbsp;organised here at the police parade ground.

Chief Minister Reddy, whose father was two-time Chief Minister of the state, said, "I am very happy to attend this Iftar. God writes wonderful scripts. I will give you an example of that."

"During the 2014 elections, 67 MLAs won on the YSRCP ticket. TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu purchased 23 of them in the past five years. Similarly, he bought three of our nine YSRCP MPs," he said.

Referring to the results of recently held Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in the state, he said, "Now in 2019 elections, the results were declared on May 23 in the holy month of Ramzan. TDP led by Chandrababu Naidu could win only 23 Assembly seats and three seats of Lok Sabha. Can anybody write a script better than God?"

Talking about the local party leader Iqbal, he said, "Only Iqbal could not win. I will send him to the Legislative Council."&nbsp;

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Monday said that he would try to serve the state better than his father YS Rajasekhar Reddy. "I will try to serve the state better than my father YS Rajasekhar Reddy," he said, while wishing Muslims of the state 'Eid Mubarak' in advance at an 'Iftar' organised here at the police parade ground.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Monday said that he would try to serve the state better than his father YS Rajasekhar Reddy. "I will try to serve the state better than my father YS Rajasekhar Reddy," he said, while wishing Muslims of the state 'Eid Mubarak' in advance at an 'Iftar' organised here at the police parade ground. Chief Minister Reddy, whose father was two-time Chief Minister of the state, said, "I am very happy to attend this Iftar. God writes wonderful scripts. I will give you an example of that." "During the 2014 elections, 67 MLAs won on the YSRCP ticket. TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu purchased 23 of them in the past five years. Similarly, he bought three of our nine YSRCP MPs," he said. Referring to the results of recently held Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in the state, he said, "Now in 2019 elections, the results were declared on May 23 in the holy month of Ramzan. TDP led by Chandrababu Naidu could win only 23 Assembly seats and three seats of Lok Sabha. Can anybody write a script better than God?" Talking about the local party leader Iqbal, he said, "Only Iqbal could not win. I will send him to the Legislative Council."

I will try to serve Andhra Pradesh better than my father: Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy

In the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-20-rajnath-singh-is-defence-minister-amit-shah-home-nirmala-sitharaman-gets-finace-223084">portfolio allocation</a>, which was announced on Friday, a new ministry, Jal Shakti, has been introduced, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s poll promise of providing safe drinking water to people.

Member of Parliament from Jodhpur, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gajendra-singh-shekhawat-jodhpur-mp-who-gave-gehlot-the-blues-222945">Gajendra Singh Shekhawat</a>, who defeated the son of Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot, will head the Jal Shakti Ministry. It has been created by reorganising the earlier Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, which was held by Nitin Gadkari in the previous government.

Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation has also been added to it. During an election rally in Tamil Nadu, Modi last month had assured that if voted back to power, his government would ensure the establishment of a separate Jal Shakti Ministry.

"After May 23, when the Modi Government will once again assume office, there will be a separate Ministry for Jal Shakti. This Ministry will cater to many aspects relating to water," Prime Minister Modi had said.

"The NDA govt had devoted a lot of attention to Water resources. There will be a separate ministry for Jal Shakti to ensure clean water and top class irrigation water facilities for the farmers," he added.BJP's manifesto had also promised to set up a unified Ministry of Water to end the water woes in the country.

From April to July every year, the water situation in at least eight states in the country is grim. The Centre recently issued a drought advisory to Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu, asking them to use water judiciously in the coming weeks as water storage in dams dropped to a critical level.

With almost all of rural India depending on monsoon rain for agriculture and domestic purpose, there is a desperate need for water management on a war footing.&nbsp;

Watch: Modi 2.0 cabinet portfolios announced: Nirmala gets Finance, Amit Shah takes Home

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In the portfolio allocation, which was announced on Friday, a new ministry, Jal Shakti, has been introduced, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s poll promise of providing safe drinking water to people.

In the portfolio allocation, which was announced on Friday, a new ministry, Jal Shakti, has been introduced, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s poll promise of providing safe drinking water to people. Member of Parliament from Jodhpur, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, who defeated the son of Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot, will head the Jal Shakti Ministry. It has been created by reorganising the earlier Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, which was held by Nitin Gadkari in the previous government. Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation has also been added to it. During an election rally in Tamil Nadu, Modi last month had assured that if voted back to power, his government would ensure the establishment of a separate Jal Shakti Ministry. "After May 23, when the Modi Government will once again assume office, there will be a separate Ministry for Jal Shakti. This Ministry will cater to many aspects relating to water," Prime Minister Modi had said. "The NDA govt had devoted a lot of attention to Water resources. There will be a separate ministry for Jal Shakti to ensure clean water and top class irrigation water facilities for the farmers," he added.BJP's manifesto had also promised to set up a unified Ministry of Water to end the water woes in the country. From April to July every year, the water situation in at least eight states in the country is grim. The Centre recently issued a drought advisory to Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu, asking them to use water judiciously in the coming weeks as water storage in dams dropped to a critical level. With almost all of rural India depending on monsoon rain for agriculture and domestic purpose, there is a desperate need for water management on a war footing. Watch: Modi 2.0 cabinet portfolios announced: Nirmala gets Finance, Amit Shah takes Home ×

As promised, PM Narendra Modi forms Jal Shakti ministry

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heavy-rain-lashes-vijayawada-venue-of-andhra-pradesh-cm-swearing-in-ceremony-affected-222612">YS Jagan Mohan Reddy</a>, popularly known as Jagan Reddy, has emerged tall after an epic electoral win, vanquishing his rivals to claim the top seat in Andhra Pradesh.

Yeduguri Sandinti Jagan Mohan Reddy, the president of the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), who made his electoral debut in the year 2009, the same year in which his father Yeduguri Sandinti Rajasekhara Reddy or YSR, became the Chief Minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh.

The political journey of the businessman-turned-politician has indeed been meteoric.

Nearly a decade after YSR was tragically killed in a helicopter crash, Jagan who won the Lok Sabha seat in 2009 from home turf Kadappa, is set to succeed him as Chief Minister.

Watch: Jagan Reddy trumps Chandrababu Naidu

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While Jagan was ready to take over as CM after his father's death and had the backing of many legislators, the Congress party, then led by Sonia Gandhi, had other plans and propped up K Rosiah in the chief minister's chair whom they replaced with Kiran Kumar Reddy.

Jagan, along with his mother Y S Vijayamma quit the Congress in 2010 to start his own party.

Jagan had then faced a series of corruption charges, which was slapped on him and his aides by the CBI after the High Court ordered a probe against him.

He was arrested and jailed in 2012 and spent a total of 16 months in prison before being released on bail, just a few months before the 2014 Lok Sabha elections.

In that year, the YSRCP won 67 seats in the assembly and ate into the Congress position in Andhra politics, relegating it to second place in the state.

Success eluded him in the 2014 general elections but lost out to Chandrababu Naidu who had tied up with actor Pawan Kalyan. There was also massive poaching of his MPs and MLAs by Naidu's Telugu Desam Party (TDP).

However, Jagan refused to admit defeat and geared up for another fight with a record padayatara, which stretched for 14 months and ended this January.

Jagan travelled through all the districts of Andhra Pradesh talking to, shaking hands with and mingling with people, emulating his father's trademark style.

The 47-year-old leader finally swept into power after the 2019 elections defeating a 69-year-old Chandrababu Naidu who had snapped ties with the NDA government and had attempted to stitch together a non-BJP, non-NDA government at the Centre.

Jagan will take oath as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mk-stalin-to-attend-andhra-pradesh-chief-minister-elect-jagan-mohan-reddys-swearing-in-ceremony-on-may-30-222261">the second Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh</a> post its bifurcation today. Governor E S L Narasimhan will administer the oath of office and secrecy at Vijayawada's Indira Gandhi Municipal Stadium at 12.23 pm.

The YSRCP got an absolute majority in 175-member strong Assembly.

The party won 151 seats out of 175, whereas TDP's strength was drastically reduced from 102 in the 2014 Assembly elections to a mere 23.

YSRCP polled 49.9 per cent votes, while TDP got a 39.2 per cent vote share.

One seat went to the Jana Sena Party led by actor-turn politician Pawan Kalyan.YSRCP also bagged 22 Lok Sabha seats out of 25 in the state, while TDP could get only three seats.

Taking a jibe at Naidu, Jaganmohan Reddy recently said, "The fate of Chandrababu Naidu proves that God will punish those who act without justice. Chandrababu had purchased and grabbed 23 MLAs and three MPs of YSRCP in 2014. But now in 2019, his party TDP is left with 23 MLAs and three MPs. God alone can write such great script and do such a wonderful poetic justice."&nbsp;

YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, popularly known as Jagan Reddy, has emerged tall after an epic electoral win, vanquishing his rivals to claim the top seat in Andhra Pradesh.

YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, popularly known as Jagan Reddy, has emerged tall after an epic electoral win, vanquishing his rivals to claim the top seat in Andhra Pradesh. Yeduguri Sandinti Jagan Mohan Reddy, the president of the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), who made his electoral debut in the year 2009, the same year in which his father Yeduguri Sandinti Rajasekhara Reddy or YSR, became the Chief Minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh. The political journey of the businessman-turned-politician has indeed been meteoric. Nearly a decade after YSR was tragically killed in a helicopter crash, Jagan who won the Lok Sabha seat in 2009 from home turf Kadappa, is set to succeed him as Chief Minister. Watch: Jagan Reddy trumps Chandrababu Naidu While Jagan was ready to take over as CM after his father's death and had the backing of many legislators, the Congress party, then led by Sonia Gandhi, had other plans and propped up K Rosiah in the chief minister's chair whom they replaced with Kiran Kumar Reddy. Jagan, along with his mother Y S Vijayamma quit the Congress in 2010 to start his own party. Jagan had then faced a series of corruption charges, which was slapped on him and his aides by the CBI after the High Court ordered a probe against him. He was arrested and jailed in 2012 and spent a total of 16 months in prison before being released on bail, just a few months before the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. In that year, the YSRCP won 67 seats in the assembly and ate into the Congress position in Andhra politics, relegating it to second place in the state. Success eluded him in the 2014 general elections but lost out to Chandrababu Naidu who had tied up with actor Pawan Kalyan. There was also massive poaching of his MPs and MLAs by Naidu's Telugu Desam Party (TDP). However, Jagan refused to admit defeat and geared up for another fight with a record padayatara, which stretched for 14 months and ended this January. Jagan travelled through all the districts of Andhra Pradesh talking to, shaking hands with and mingling with people, emulating his father's trademark style. The 47-year-old leader finally swept into power after the 2019 elections defeating a 69-year-old Chandrababu Naidu who had snapped ties with the NDA government and had attempted to stitch together a non-BJP, non-NDA government at the Centre. Jagan will take oath as the second Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh post its bifurcation today. Governor E S L Narasimhan will administer the oath of office and secrecy at Vijayawada's Indira Gandhi Municipal Stadium at 12.23 pm. The YSRCP got an absolute majority in 175-member strong Assembly. The party won 151 seats out of 175, whereas TDP's strength was drastically reduced from 102 in the 2014 Assembly elections to a mere 23. YSRCP polled 49.9 per cent votes, while TDP got a 39.2 per cent vote share. One seat went to the Jana Sena Party led by actor-turn politician Pawan Kalyan.YSRCP also bagged 22 Lok Sabha seats out of 25 in the state, while TDP could get only three seats. Taking a jibe at Naidu, Jaganmohan Reddy recently said, "The fate of Chandrababu Naidu proves that God will punish those who act without justice. Chandrababu had purchased and grabbed 23 MLAs and three MPs of YSRCP in 2014. But now in 2019, his party TDP is left with 23 MLAs and three MPs. God alone can write such great script and do such a wonderful poetic justice."

The metoric rise of YS Jagan Mohan Reddy

YS Jagan Mohan Reddy was sworn in as chief minister of Andhra Pradesh at Indira Gandhi Municipal stadium in Vijayawada on Thursday.

Governor E S L Narasimhan administered the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-metoric-rise-of-ys-jaganmohan-reddy-222617">oath of office</a> and secrecy at 12.23 pm in the presence of several VVIPs, including Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, DMK president MK Stalin and leaders of various other political parties.

Jagan is the son of former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Rajasekhara Reddy.&nbsp;

He was earlier a Member of Parliament from Kadapa Lok Sabha constituency.&nbsp;

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YS Jagan Mohan Reddy sworn-in as the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, in Vijayawada. <a href="https://t.co/WeUouHNT8P">pic.twitter.com/WeUouHNT8P</a>
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Around 30,000 people attended the ceremony at the IGMC Stadium and the Krishna district administration had made elaborate security arrangements with 5,000 police personnel deployed at the venue.&nbsp;

YSRCP registered a landslide victory in the 175-member strong Assembly in the recently held election.

The party won 151 seats out of 175, whereas TDP`s strength was drastically reduced from 102 in the 2014 Assembly elections to a mere 23.&nbsp;

YSRCP polled 49.9 per cent votes, while TDP got a 39.2 per cent vote share.&nbsp;

YSRCP also bagged 22 Lok Sabha seats out of 25 in the state, while TDP managed just three seats.

Taking a jibe at Naidu, Jaganmohan Reddy recently said, "The fate of Chandrababu Naidu proves that God will punish those who act without justice. Chandrababu had purchased and grabbed 23 MLAs and three MPs of YSRCP in 2014. But now in 2019, his party is left with 23 MLAs and three MPs. God alone can write such great script and do such a wonderful poetic justice."

YS Jagan Mohan Reddy was sworn in as chief minister of Andhra Pradesh at Indira Gandhi Municipal stadium in Vijayawada on Thursday. Governor E S L Narasimhan administered the oath of office and secrecy at 12.

YS Jagan Mohan Reddy was sworn in as chief minister of Andhra Pradesh at Indira Gandhi Municipal stadium in Vijayawada on Thursday. Governor E S L Narasimhan administered the oath of office and secrecy at 12.23 pm in the presence of several VVIPs, including Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, DMK president MK Stalin and leaders of various other political parties. Jagan is the son of former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Rajasekhara Reddy. He was earlier a Member of Parliament from Kadapa Lok Sabha constituency. YS Jagan Mohan Reddy sworn-in as the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, in Vijayawada. pic.twitter.com/WeUouHNT8P — ANI (@ANI) May 30, 2019 × Around 30,000 people attended the ceremony at the IGMC Stadium and the Krishna district administration had made elaborate security arrangements with 5,000 police personnel deployed at the venue. YSRCP registered a landslide victory in the 175-member strong Assembly in the recently held election. The party won 151 seats out of 175, whereas TDP`s strength was drastically reduced from 102 in the 2014 Assembly elections to a mere 23. YSRCP polled 49.9 per cent votes, while TDP got a 39.2 per cent vote share. YSRCP also bagged 22 Lok Sabha seats out of 25 in the state, while TDP managed just three seats. Taking a jibe at Naidu, Jaganmohan Reddy recently said, "The fate of Chandrababu Naidu proves that God will punish those who act without justice. Chandrababu had purchased and grabbed 23 MLAs and three MPs of YSRCP in 2014. But now in 2019, his party is left with 23 MLAs and three MPs. God alone can write such great script and do such a wonderful poetic justice."

YS Jagan Mohan Reddy sworn in as Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister 

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP from Telangana G Kishan Reddy, who was sworn-in as a Minister of State, is a leader who rose through the ranks.

The BJP leader won the Secunderabad Lok Sabha seat in Telangana by a comfortable margin.

Reddy, who started his political career in 1977 as an ordinary worker with the Janata Party, had served as president of BJP in undivided Andhra Pradesh and Telangana and also as national president of BJYM, BJP's youth wing.

He also functioned as the party's floor leader of Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly.

Born in 1960 in neighbouring Ranga Reddy district, Kishan Reddy was inspired by Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan and RSS leaders before he plunged into public service.

After working with Janata Party as an activist, he joined the BJP when it was formed in 1980.

Reddy's growth in the saffron party was gradual and he was appointed as the president of BJYM in 2002 when the party was in power at the Centre.&nbsp;

Reddy formed the World Youth Council Against Terrorism (WYCAT), an apolitical organisation, when he was the president of BJYM.

He organised a World Youth Convention under the auspices of WYCAT in New Delhi in which delegates from over 50 countries participated.

He conducted a 'Seema Suraksha Jagran Yatra' with the objective of expressing solidarity with the people living in border areas.&nbsp;

Reddy contested Assembly polls for the first time in 2004 (from Himayatnagar in Hyderabad) and got elected. His work won him laurels though he was the only MLA for his party then.

After delimitation of constituencies, he was subsequently elected to the Assembly from Amberpet constituency in the city in 2009 and 2014.&nbsp;

He, however, lost the Assembly elections held in December 2018, the first in Telangana after its formation.

With sitting Lok Sabha member and former Union Minister Bandaru Dattatreya being denied the ticket, Kishan Reddy was chosen by the party to contest from Secunderabad in the recently held Lok Sabha polls.

Reddy also worked for social causes, including well being of children suffering from heart ailments. His effort, along with others, made the then government come up with a scheme to help such children.

He headed the Telangana Home Guards Association and undertook agitations, seeking equal treatment, respect and improvement in their living conditions.&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP from Telangana G Kishan Reddy, who was sworn-in as a Minister of State, is a leader who rose through the ranks. The BJP leader won the Secunderabad Lok Sabha seat in Telangana by a comfortable margin.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP from Telangana G Kishan Reddy, who was sworn-in as a Minister of State, is a leader who rose through the ranks. The BJP leader won the Secunderabad Lok Sabha seat in Telangana by a comfortable margin. Reddy, who started his political career in 1977 as an ordinary worker with the Janata Party, had served as president of BJP in undivided Andhra Pradesh and Telangana and also as national president of BJYM, BJP's youth wing. He also functioned as the party's floor leader of Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly. Born in 1960 in neighbouring Ranga Reddy district, Kishan Reddy was inspired by Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan and RSS leaders before he plunged into public service. After working with Janata Party as an activist, he joined the BJP when it was formed in 1980. Reddy's growth in the saffron party was gradual and he was appointed as the president of BJYM in 2002 when the party was in power at the Centre. Reddy formed the World Youth Council Against Terrorism (WYCAT), an apolitical organisation, when he was the president of BJYM. He organised a World Youth Convention under the auspices of WYCAT in New Delhi in which delegates from over 50 countries participated. He conducted a 'Seema Suraksha Jagran Yatra' with the objective of expressing solidarity with the people living in border areas. Reddy contested Assembly polls for the first time in 2004 (from Himayatnagar in Hyderabad) and got elected. His work won him laurels though he was the only MLA for his party then. After delimitation of constituencies, he was subsequently elected to the Assembly from Amberpet constituency in the city in 2009 and 2014. He, however, lost the Assembly elections held in December 2018, the first in Telangana after its formation. With sitting Lok Sabha member and former Union Minister Bandaru Dattatreya being denied the ticket, Kishan Reddy was chosen by the party to contest from Secunderabad in the recently held Lok Sabha polls. Reddy also worked for social causes, including well being of children suffering from heart ailments. His effort, along with others, made the then government come up with a scheme to help such children. He headed the Telangana Home Guards Association and undertook agitations, seeking equal treatment, respect and improvement in their living conditions.

G Kishan Reddy: Telangana MP who rose through the ranks

Heavy rains accompanied by strong winds hit Vijayawada on Wednesday providing relief from the sweltering heat and lowering temperatures considerably.

YSR Congress Party chief Jaganmohan <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mk-stalin-to-attend-andhra-pradesh-chief-minister-elect-jagan-mohan-reddys-swearing-in-ceremony-on-may-30-222261">Reddy is set to take oath as the new chief minister of Andhra Pradesh</a>.

The sudden change in weather has affected the preparations at the Indira Gandhi Municipal Stadium, the venue of the swearing in. Governor ESL Narasimhan will administer the oath of office and secrecy at 12.23 pm.

Reddy, is the son of former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Rajasekhara Reddy.

He was earlier a Member of Parliament from Kadapa Lok Sabha constituency.

The YSRCP got an absolute majority in 175-member strong Assembly, ousting N Chandrababu Naidu-led Telugu Desam Party (TDP) from power in the state.

The party won 151 seats out of 175, whereas opposition TDP's strength was drastically reduced from 102 in the 2014 Assembly elections to a mere 23.

YSRCP polled 49.9 per cent votes, while TDP got a 39.2 per cent vote share.

One seat went to the Jana Sena Party led by actor-turn politician Pawan Kalyan.

YSRCP also bagged 22 Lok Sabha seats out of 25 in the state, while TDP could get only three seats.&nbsp;

Heavy rains accompanied by strong winds hit Vijayawada on Wednesday providing relief from the sweltering heat and lowering temperatures considerably. YSR Congress Party chief Jaganmohan Reddy is set to take oath as the new chief minister of Andhra Pradesh.

Heavy rains accompanied by strong winds hit Vijayawada on Wednesday providing relief from the sweltering heat and lowering temperatures considerably. YSR Congress Party chief Jaganmohan Reddy is set to take oath as the new chief minister of Andhra Pradesh. The sudden change in weather has affected the preparations at the Indira Gandhi Municipal Stadium, the venue of the swearing in. Governor ESL Narasimhan will administer the oath of office and secrecy at 12.23 pm. Reddy, is the son of former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Rajasekhara Reddy. He was earlier a Member of Parliament from Kadapa Lok Sabha constituency. The YSRCP got an absolute majority in 175-member strong Assembly, ousting N Chandrababu Naidu-led Telugu Desam Party (TDP) from power in the state. The party won 151 seats out of 175, whereas opposition TDP's strength was drastically reduced from 102 in the 2014 Assembly elections to a mere 23. YSRCP polled 49.9 per cent votes, while TDP got a 39.2 per cent vote share. One seat went to the Jana Sena Party led by actor-turn politician Pawan Kalyan. YSRCP also bagged 22 Lok Sabha seats out of 25 in the state, while TDP could get only three seats.

Heavy rain lashes Vijayawada, venue of Andhra Pradesh CM swearing-in ceremony affected

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday congratulated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ys-jagan-mohan-reddy-sworn-in-as-andhra-pradesh-chief-minister-222681">newly-appointed Chief minister of Andhra Pradesh</a> YS Jaganmohan Reddy.&nbsp;

"Congratulations to @ysjagan on taking oath as Andhra Pradesh's Chief Minister. I assure full cooperation from the Centre. We will work together to take Andhra Pradesh to new heights," PM Modi tweeted.

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Congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/ysjagan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ysjagan</a> on taking oath as Andhra Pradesh’s Chief Minister. I assure full cooperation from the Centre. We will work together to take Andhra Pradesh to new heights.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1134020002477031424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Congress President Rahul Gandhi also gave his best wishes to Reddy.

"Congratulations to Jagan Reddyji on being sworn in as the CM of Andhra Pradesh. My best wishes to him, his new team of ministers and to all the people of the state," Gandhi tweeted.&nbsp;

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Congratulations to Jagan Reddyji on being sworn in as the CM of Andhra Pradesh. 
 
My best wishes to him, his new team of ministers and to all the people of the state.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1133997697755537409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Reddy was sworn in as chief minister of Andhra Pradesh at Indira Gandhi Municipal stadium in Vijayawada earlier today.

Around 30,000 people attended the ceremony at the IGMC Stadium and the Krishna district administration had made elaborate security arrangements with 5,000 police personnel deployed at the venue.&nbsp;

PM Modi will take oath for his second term today at 7pm at Rashtrapati Bhawan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday congratulated newly-appointed Chief minister of Andhra Pradesh YS Jaganmohan Reddy. "Congratulations to @ysjagan on taking oath as Andhra Pradesh's Chief Minister.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday congratulated newly-appointed Chief minister of Andhra Pradesh YS Jaganmohan Reddy. "Congratulations to @ysjagan on taking oath as Andhra Pradesh's Chief Minister. I assure full cooperation from the Centre. We will work together to take Andhra Pradesh to new heights," PM Modi tweeted. Congratulations to @ysjagan on taking oath as Andhra Pradesh’s Chief Minister. I assure full cooperation from the Centre. We will work together to take Andhra Pradesh to new heights. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 30, 2019 × Congress President Rahul Gandhi also gave his best wishes to Reddy. "Congratulations to Jagan Reddyji on being sworn in as the CM of Andhra Pradesh. My best wishes to him, his new team of ministers and to all the people of the state," Gandhi tweeted. Congratulations to Jagan Reddyji on being sworn in as the CM of Andhra Pradesh. My best wishes to him, his new team of ministers and to all the people of the state. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 30, 2019 × Reddy was sworn in as chief minister of Andhra Pradesh at Indira Gandhi Municipal stadium in Vijayawada earlier today. Around 30,000 people attended the ceremony at the IGMC Stadium and the Krishna district administration had made elaborate security arrangements with 5,000 police personnel deployed at the venue. PM Modi will take oath for his second term today at 7pm at Rashtrapati Bhawan.

PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi congratulates new Andhra Pradesh CM Jaganmohan Reddy

YS Jaganmohan Reddy, who got a massive mandate for his party YSRCP in the Assembly elections, was on Thursday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ys-jagan-mohan-reddy-sworn-in-as-andhra-pradesh-chief-minister-222681">sworn in as second Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh</a> after bifurcation and he immediately announced Rs 3,000 as pension per month for senior citizens in the state.

Reddy, who was sworn in by Governor E S L Narasimhan at the Indira Gandhi Municipality Stadium in front of a huge crowd of his party workers and admirers, was the only one to take oath today.

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao and DMK chief M K Stalin were among the dignitaries who attended the ceremony.

In his first major announcement after taking an oath, Reddy announced the scheme for senior citizens and asserted there would be corruption-free governance in the state.

"Every senior citizen would get at least Rs 3,000 monthly pension. This would be my first signature after I assume the Chief Minister's office. The scheme would begin with Rs 2,250 and it will be increased up to Rs 3,000 within three years," he said while addressing the people who kept cheering him right from the time he took the oath of office and secrecy in Telugu.

"There will be corruption-free governance across the state. A call centre would be set up at the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) to address the corruption charges. Everyone will have access to the CMO," Reddy said.

Watch:&nbsp;Jagan Mohan Reddy sworn in as Andhra Pradesh CM

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jagan-mohan-reddy-sworn-in-as-andhra-pradesh-cm-222702/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He said over one lakh jobs will be created by October 2.

"From pensions to fee reimbursements, Andhra people can now get them sanctioned within 72 hours by the Gram Secretariat. YSRCP government will create around 1.6 lakh jobs by next Gandhi Jayanti. Power tariffs will be brought down in the state. Within six months to one year, people will see a change in this government," Reddy&nbsp;said.

"By August 15, we will provide 4 lakh jobs to people as village volunteers at a salary of Rs 5,000. There will be one volunteer for every 50 families and it will be the corruption-free and transparent mechanism. We will set up village secretariats by October 2, giving 1.45 lakh jobs. Once you make an application in village secretariat, it will be resolved or sanctioned within 72 hours," Jagan said.

The Chief Minister also said that he will request the Andhra Pradesh High Court to constitute a judicial commission with the sitting judge to monitor and execute tenders and contracts.

Reddy promised development for everyone irrespective of any caste and religion.

"People of Andhra have blessed me with such a great victory after walking with me for over 3,600 kilometres. I thank everyone for their belief and support towards me. I have seen the suffering of the poor and elders in the state. I assure that I am there for you all," Reddy&nbsp;said.

"We did not bring big books for our manifesto. We just brought out two pages. We don't intend to address a particular caste or religion. It is meant for all. I will follow the manifesto-like Bible, Quran and Gita to fulfil all the promises," the Chief Minister said.

Jagan also wished DMK chief MK Stalin that he would become Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao, who had stuck a cordial relationship with Reddy against the backdrop of his rivalry with TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu, expressed his wish that the YSRCP chief should continue as the Chief Minister for next four terms.

"Jagan Mohan Reddy is very young but he has a huge responsibility. Andhra people should be happy during his rule. Both Telugu states need to be developed with mutual understanding," Rao said.

"The consumption of Godavari water should take place 100 per cent by the Andhra Pradesh government. There are difficulties related to Krishna water, Telangana state government will provide all the support. People of Andhra Pradesh has given a wonderful opportunity to Jagan. Jagan's rule should continue for next three to four terms," Rao added.

The YSRCP got an absolute majority in the 175-member Assembly, ousting N Chandrababu Naidu-led Telugu Desam Party (TDP) from power in the state. The party won 151 seats, whereas TDP's strength was drastically reduced from 102 in the 2014 Assembly elections to a mere 23.&nbsp;

In the Lok Sabha, YSRCP bagged 22 seats out of the state's 25 with rest three going to the TDP.

YS Jaganmohan Reddy, who got a massive mandate for his party YSRCP in the Assembly elections, was on Thursday sworn in as second Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh after bifurcation and he immediately announced Rs 3,000 as pension per month for senior citizens in the state.

YS Jaganmohan Reddy, who got a massive mandate for his party YSRCP in the Assembly elections, was on Thursday sworn in as second Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh after bifurcation and he immediately announced Rs 3,000 as pension per month for senior citizens in the state. Reddy, who was sworn in by Governor E S L Narasimhan at the Indira Gandhi Municipality Stadium in front of a huge crowd of his party workers and admirers, was the only one to take oath today. Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao and DMK chief M K Stalin were among the dignitaries who attended the ceremony. In his first major announcement after taking an oath, Reddy announced the scheme for senior citizens and asserted there would be corruption-free governance in the state. "Every senior citizen would get at least Rs 3,000 monthly pension. This would be my first signature after I assume the Chief Minister's office. The scheme would begin with Rs 2,250 and it will be increased up to Rs 3,000 within three years," he said while addressing the people who kept cheering him right from the time he took the oath of office and secrecy in Telugu. "There will be corruption-free governance across the state. A call centre would be set up at the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) to address the corruption charges. Everyone will have access to the CMO," Reddy said. Watch: Jagan Mohan Reddy sworn in as Andhra Pradesh CM He said over one lakh jobs will be created by October 2. "From pensions to fee reimbursements, Andhra people can now get them sanctioned within 72 hours by the Gram Secretariat. YSRCP government will create around 1.6 lakh jobs by next Gandhi Jayanti. Power tariffs will be brought down in the state. Within six months to one year, people will see a change in this government," Reddy said. "By August 15, we will provide 4 lakh jobs to people as village volunteers at a salary of Rs 5,000. There will be one volunteer for every 50 families and it will be the corruption-free and transparent mechanism. We will set up village secretariats by October 2, giving 1.45 lakh jobs. Once you make an application in village secretariat, it will be resolved or sanctioned within 72 hours," Jagan said. The Chief Minister also said that he will request the Andhra Pradesh High Court to constitute a judicial commission with the sitting judge to monitor and execute tenders and contracts. Reddy promised development for everyone irrespective of any caste and religion. "People of Andhra have blessed me with such a great victory after walking with me for over 3,600 kilometres. I thank everyone for their belief and support towards me. I have seen the suffering of the poor and elders in the state. I assure that I am there for you all," Reddy said. "We did not bring big books for our manifesto. We just brought out two pages. We don't intend to address a particular caste or religion. It is meant for all. I will follow the manifesto-like Bible, Quran and Gita to fulfil all the promises," the Chief Minister said. Jagan also wished DMK chief MK Stalin that he would become Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao, who had stuck a cordial relationship with Reddy against the backdrop of his rivalry with TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu, expressed his wish that the YSRCP chief should continue as the Chief Minister for next four terms. "Jagan Mohan Reddy is very young but he has a huge responsibility. Andhra people should be happy during his rule. Both Telugu states need to be developed with mutual understanding," Rao said. "The consumption of Godavari water should take place 100 per cent by the Andhra Pradesh government. There are difficulties related to Krishna water, Telangana state government will provide all the support. People of Andhra Pradesh has given a wonderful opportunity to Jagan. Jagan's rule should continue for next three to four terms," Rao added. The YSRCP got an absolute majority in the 175-member Assembly, ousting N Chandrababu Naidu-led Telugu Desam Party (TDP) from power in the state. The party won 151 seats, whereas TDP's strength was drastically reduced from 102 in the 2014 Assembly elections to a mere 23. In the Lok Sabha, YSRCP bagged 22 seats out of the state's 25 with rest three going to the TDP.

Andhra Pradesh CM Jaganmohan Reddy announces Rs 3,000 monthly pension for senior citizens, promises corruption-free governance

Outgoing Andhra Pradesh chief minister and&nbsp;Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief N Chandrababu Naidu will not attend the swearing-in of YS Jaganmohan Reddy on May 30 in Vijayawada.

Naidu will instead send a&nbsp;TDP&nbsp;delegation to attend the ceremony.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AndhraPradesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AndhraPradesh</a>: TDP National President N Chandrababu Naidu to not attend swearing-in ceremony of YS Jaganmohan Reddy tomorrow. A TDP delegation will meet YS Jaganmohan Reddy at his Amaravati residence before the swearing-in ceremony. (file pics) <a href="https://t.co/HH8hpBMpf6">pic.twitter.com/HH8hpBMpf6</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1133690017899921408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Though Reddy had personally invited the TDP chief over the telephone.

Meanwhile, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mk-stalin-to-attend-andhra-pradesh-chief-minister-elect-jagan-mohan-reddys-swearing-in-ceremony-on-may-30-222261">MK Stalin will attend</a> Jaganmohan Reddy's swearing-in ceremony.

Reddy's party YSRCP achieved a landslide victory by winning 151 seats in the 175-member Assembly and 22 out of the 25 Lok Sabha seats.

After the swearing-in ceremony, Reddy and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao will reportedly fly to Delhi to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

Outgoing Andhra Pradesh chief minister and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief N Chandrababu Naidu will not attend the swearing-in of YS Jaganmohan Reddy on May 30 in Vijayawada.

Outgoing Andhra Pradesh chief minister and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief N Chandrababu Naidu will not attend the swearing-in of YS Jaganmohan Reddy on May 30 in Vijayawada. Naidu will instead send a TDP delegation to attend the ceremony. #AndhraPradesh: TDP National President N Chandrababu Naidu to not attend swearing-in ceremony of YS Jaganmohan Reddy tomorrow. A TDP delegation will meet YS Jaganmohan Reddy at his Amaravati residence before the swearing-in ceremony. (file pics) pic.twitter.com/HH8hpBMpf6 — ANI (@ANI) May 29, 2019 × Though Reddy had personally invited the TDP chief over the telephone. Meanwhile, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) President MK Stalin will attend Jaganmohan Reddy's swearing-in ceremony. Reddy's party YSRCP achieved a landslide victory by winning 151 seats in the 175-member Assembly and 22 out of the 25 Lok Sabha seats. After the swearing-in ceremony, Reddy and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao will reportedly fly to Delhi to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Chandrababu Naidu will not attend Reddy's swearing-in ceremony as Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister

TDP president and former Andhra Pradesh chief minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-election-result-2019-tdps-chandrababu-naidu-likely-to-resign-today-220872">N Chandrababu Naidu</a> was unanimously elected as the leader of the Telugu Desam Legislature Party (TDLP) here on Wednesday.

A meeting of the TDLP, attended by the newly-elected MLAs and MPs of the party, was held at Naidu's residence.

The TDP, which ruled the state from June 2014, faced a rout at the hands of the YSR Congress Party in the just-concluded election to the state Assembly, winning just 23 of the 175 seats.

In the Lok Sabha polls too, the Naidu-led party suffered a drubbing, bagging only three of the state's 28 seats.

The TDP chief held a meeting with the 23 newly-elected MLAs and the three MPs, besides senior leaders of the party.

Since the election results were declared on May 23, there was speculation in party circles that Naidu would make way for another leader to lead the TDLP.

At the TDLP meeting, however, the lawmakers elected him unanimously,&nbsp; 
according to party sources.

"Only Chandrababu should be the TDLP leader. It gives us a lot of confidence and strength," senior legislator Gorantla Butchaiah Chowdary said.

Another legislator, N China Rajappa, said they had unanimously elected Naidu as their leader once again.

He said they had entrusted the choice of selecting the TDLP deputy leaders and the party whip with Naidu.

Later, Naidu appointed Galla Jayadev, who was re-elected as the MP from Guntur, as the leader of the Telugu Desam Parliamentary Party.

Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, who was also re-elected from Srikakulam, would be the party's leader in the Lok Sabha, while former Union minister Y Satyanarayana Chowdary would be the party leader in the Rajya Sabha.

The TDP's strength in the Lok Sabha has fallen from 15 to three, while in the Rajya Sabha, the party has six members (five from Andhra Pradesh and one from Telangana).

Naidu has said his party will play the role of a constructive opposition and extend co-operation to the new YSRCP government in Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;

TDP president and former Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu was unanimously elected as the leader of the Telugu Desam Legislature Party (TDLP) here on Wednesday.

TDP president and former Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu was unanimously elected as the leader of the Telugu Desam Legislature Party (TDLP) here on Wednesday. A meeting of the TDLP, attended by the newly-elected MLAs and MPs of the party, was held at Naidu's residence. The TDP, which ruled the state from June 2014, faced a rout at the hands of the YSR Congress Party in the just-concluded election to the state Assembly, winning just 23 of the 175 seats. In the Lok Sabha polls too, the Naidu-led party suffered a drubbing, bagging only three of the state's 28 seats. The TDP chief held a meeting with the 23 newly-elected MLAs and the three MPs, besides senior leaders of the party. Since the election results were declared on May 23, there was speculation in party circles that Naidu would make way for another leader to lead the TDLP. At the TDLP meeting, however, the lawmakers elected him unanimously, according to party sources. "Only Chandrababu should be the TDLP leader. It gives us a lot of confidence and strength," senior legislator Gorantla Butchaiah Chowdary said. Another legislator, N China Rajappa, said they had unanimously elected Naidu as their leader once again. He said they had entrusted the choice of selecting the TDLP deputy leaders and the party whip with Naidu. Later, Naidu appointed Galla Jayadev, who was re-elected as the MP from Guntur, as the leader of the Telugu Desam Parliamentary Party. Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, who was also re-elected from Srikakulam, would be the party's leader in the Lok Sabha, while former Union minister Y Satyanarayana Chowdary would be the party leader in the Rajya Sabha. The TDP's strength in the Lok Sabha has fallen from 15 to three, while in the Rajya Sabha, the party has six members (five from Andhra Pradesh and one from Telangana). Naidu has said his party will play the role of a constructive opposition and extend co-operation to the new YSRCP government in Andhra Pradesh.

Former Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu elected as TDLP leader

YSR Congress Party president and Chief Minister Designate of Andhra Pradesh <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaganmohan-reddy-meets-pm-modi-discusses-special-status-for-andhra-pradesh-221763">YS Jaganmohan Reddy</a> on Monday met various bureaucrats and party leaders here.

Many IAS and IPS officers went to Jaganmohan Reddy's Amaravati residence on Monday.

These included senior officers like Krishna Babu, Vara Prasad, Sandhya Rani, Lakshmikantam, Satyanarayana, Pradyumna, K Bhaskar, Kartikeya Mishra, Ravi Prakash, and Mary Prasanti among others.

However, Hyderabad IG Stephen Raveendra and AP Vigilance DG Gautam Sawang`s meeting with Reddy created much curiosity as soon after they met reports popped up that Stephen Raveendra will be made AP Intelligence Chief.

Further reports suggested that Gautam Sawang will be made the DGP of Andhra Pradesh.

He would have held the post last year itself if former chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu had not opted for RP Thakur.

YSRCP had continuously made allegations against Thakur. Now Sawang replacing Thakur is almost confirmed.

On the other hand, many YSRCP leaders also met with Reddy. The party has reportedly decided to go for legal option on the counting of Guntur and Srikakulam Lok Sabha seats. Guntur MP candidate M Venugopal Reddy, Srikakulam MP candidate D Srinivas, senior leaders Vijayasai Reddy, S Ramakrishna Reddy held talks with Jaganmohan Reddy.

The TDP has won both the seats. However, YSRCP candidates are of the opinion that the returning officers (RO) did not consider the postal ballot and service votes.

They think that they would have won the election if ROs considered the postal and service votes.

According to reports, the party has decided to file a petition in the High court seeking to recount of votes in these two seats.

Jaganmohan Reddy will visit his hometown Pulivendula in Kadapa district today.

He will go to Idupulapaya Estate and pay tributes to his father YS&nbsp;Rajasekhara Reddy.

Jaganmohan Reddy`s swearing-in ceremony will be held on May 30.

After the swearing-in ceremony, Reddy and Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao will reportedly fly to Delhi to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

YSR Congress Party president and Chief Minister Designate of Andhra Pradesh YS Jaganmohan Reddy on Monday met various bureaucrats and party leaders here. Many IAS and IPS officers went to Jaganmohan Reddy's Amaravati residence on Monday.

YSR Congress Party president and Chief Minister Designate of Andhra Pradesh YS Jaganmohan Reddy on Monday met various bureaucrats and party leaders here. Many IAS and IPS officers went to Jaganmohan Reddy's Amaravati residence on Monday. These included senior officers like Krishna Babu, Vara Prasad, Sandhya Rani, Lakshmikantam, Satyanarayana, Pradyumna, K Bhaskar, Kartikeya Mishra, Ravi Prakash, and Mary Prasanti among others. However, Hyderabad IG Stephen Raveendra and AP Vigilance DG Gautam Sawang`s meeting with Reddy created much curiosity as soon after they met reports popped up that Stephen Raveendra will be made AP Intelligence Chief. Further reports suggested that Gautam Sawang will be made the DGP of Andhra Pradesh. He would have held the post last year itself if former chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu had not opted for RP Thakur. YSRCP had continuously made allegations against Thakur. Now Sawang replacing Thakur is almost confirmed. On the other hand, many YSRCP leaders also met with Reddy. The party has reportedly decided to go for legal option on the counting of Guntur and Srikakulam Lok Sabha seats. Guntur MP candidate M Venugopal Reddy, Srikakulam MP candidate D Srinivas, senior leaders Vijayasai Reddy, S Ramakrishna Reddy held talks with Jaganmohan Reddy. The TDP has won both the seats. However, YSRCP candidates are of the opinion that the returning officers (RO) did not consider the postal ballot and service votes. They think that they would have won the election if ROs considered the postal and service votes. According to reports, the party has decided to file a petition in the High court seeking to recount of votes in these two seats. Jaganmohan Reddy will visit his hometown Pulivendula in Kadapa district today. He will go to Idupulapaya Estate and pay tributes to his father YS Rajasekhara Reddy. Jaganmohan Reddy`s swearing-in ceremony will be held on May 30. After the swearing-in ceremony, Reddy and Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao will reportedly fly to Delhi to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Andhra Pradesh: Jaganmohan Reddy meets bureaucrats, party leaders

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) President&nbsp;MK Stalin will attend Andhra Pradesh <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/andhra-pradesh-jaganmohan-reddy-meets-bureaucrats-party-leaders-222116">Chief Minister-elect YS Jaganmohan Reddy</a>'s swearing-in ceremony on May 30, news agency ANI reported.

Andhra's outgoing chief minister and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief N Chandrababu Naidu has also been invited to attend the ceremony in Vijayawada.

Chandrababu Naidu gave stepped down from the post after his party lost the Assembly polls with a heavy margin.

Watch:&nbsp;Andhra CM Elect Jagan Mohan Reddy Meets PM Elect Modi

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/andhra-cm-elect-jagan-mohan-reddy-meets-pm-elect-modi-221800/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Reddy's party YSRCP achieved a landslide victory by winning 151 seats in the 175-member Assembly and 22 out of the 25 Lok Sabha seats.

After the swearing-in ceremony, Reddy and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao will reportedly fly to Delhi to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) President MK Stalin will attend Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister-elect YS Jaganmohan Reddy's swearing-in ceremony on May 30, news agency ANI reported.

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) President MK Stalin will attend Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister-elect YS Jaganmohan Reddy's swearing-in ceremony on May 30, news agency ANI reported. Andhra's outgoing chief minister and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief N Chandrababu Naidu has also been invited to attend the ceremony in Vijayawada. Chandrababu Naidu gave stepped down from the post after his party lost the Assembly polls with a heavy margin. Watch: Andhra CM Elect Jagan Mohan Reddy Meets PM Elect Modi Reddy's party YSRCP achieved a landslide victory by winning 151 seats in the 175-member Assembly and 22 out of the 25 Lok Sabha seats. After the swearing-in ceremony, Reddy and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao will reportedly fly to Delhi to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

MK Stalin to attend Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister-elect Jaganmohan Reddy's swearing-in ceremony on May 30

''Situation would have been different had the BJP won just 250 seats, we would have then supported the BJP only after they signed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/ysr-congress-chief-jaganmohan-reddy-arrives-in-delhi-slated-to-meet-pm-modi-today-221702">Special Category Status</a> (SCS) document,'' said YSR&nbsp;Congress Party president and Andhra Pradesh chief minister-designate Y S Jaganmohan Reddy on Sunday after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

''If the BJP would've been limited to 250 seats, we wouldn't have had to depend so much on the central government. But now, they don't need us. We did what we could do and told him (PM) of our situation,'' he added.

Reddy met Modi and BJP president Amit Shah, and sought their support for state's key demands including SCS.

Jagan said that his government will be revolutionary and added that he has nothing against &nbsp;Chandrababu Naidu.

Watch:&nbsp;Jagan Mohan Reddy likely to take oath as AP CM on May 30

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jagan-mohan-reddy-likely-to-take-oath-as-ap-cm-on-may-30-221084/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

''One thing I can tell you I have nothing against Chandrababu Naidu. My duty is that of a custodian. Today I'm going to promise you our government <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaganmohan-to-meet-modi-tomorrow-likely-discuss-outside-or-issue-based-support-to-modi-govt-221555">will be revolutionary</a>. Within six months to one year, I'll make sure this government stands as exemplary to the country,''

Jagan said that every time he meets Modi, he will remind him about the SCS and hoped things will change over the course of time.&nbsp;

''Today was the first meeting with PM. God willing I'll probably meet him maybe 30, 40, 50 times over these 5 years. I'll make it a point to remind him every time, of Special Category Status...As long as we keep reminding, things will change,'' he noted.

The SCS is the major demand of Reddy as&nbsp;during election campaign he repeatedly said he would support the party at the national level which promises SCS to Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;

The YSRCP stormed to power with a landslide victory winning&nbsp;151 out of 175 seats in the state Assembly and 22 out of 25 Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh Lok Sabha elections.

(With inputs from ANI)

''Situation would have been different had the BJP won just 250 seats, we would have then supported the BJP only after they signed the Special Category Status (SCS) document,'' said YSR Congress Party president and Andhra Pradesh chief minister-designate Y S Jaganmohan Reddy on Sunday after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

''Situation would have been different had the BJP won just 250 seats, we would have then supported the BJP only after they signed the Special Category Status (SCS) document,'' said YSR Congress Party president and Andhra Pradesh chief minister-designate Y S Jaganmohan Reddy on Sunday after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi. ''If the BJP would've been limited to 250 seats, we wouldn't have had to depend so much on the central government. But now, they don't need us. We did what we could do and told him (PM) of our situation,'' he added. Reddy met Modi and BJP president Amit Shah, and sought their support for state's key demands including SCS. Jagan said that his government will be revolutionary and added that he has nothing against Chandrababu Naidu. Watch: Jagan Mohan Reddy likely to take oath as AP CM on May 30 ''One thing I can tell you I have nothing against Chandrababu Naidu. My duty is that of a custodian. Today I'm going to promise you our government will be revolutionary. Within six months to one year, I'll make sure this government stands as exemplary to the country,'' Jagan said that every time he meets Modi, he will remind him about the SCS and hoped things will change over the course of time. ''Today was the first meeting with PM. God willing I'll probably meet him maybe 30, 40, 50 times over these 5 years. I'll make it a point to remind him every time, of Special Category Status...As long as we keep reminding, things will change,'' he noted. The SCS is the major demand of Reddy as during election campaign he repeatedly said he would support the party at the national level which promises SCS to Andhra Pradesh. The YSRCP stormed to power with a landslide victory winning 151 out of 175 seats in the state Assembly and 22 out of 25 Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh Lok Sabha elections. (With inputs from ANI)

Situation would have been different had BJP won just 250 seats, says Jagan Reddy after meeting Modi

YSR Congress Party president and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister designate Y S Jaganmohan Reddy is likely to discuss offering outside or issue-based support to the Modi government when he meets the prime minister on Sunday, sources said Saturday.

Reddy, whose party stormed to power with a landslide victory in Andhra Pradesh on Thursday, is scheduled to meet Modi in Delhi.

The meeting assumes significance as the YSRCP chief during the election campaign had repeatedly said that his party would support whoever promises Andhra Pradesh the Special Category Status.

According to an official source, the YSRCP chief will arrive in the national capital tomorrow morning and will meet the prime minister at noon.&nbsp;

After meeting Modi, he is expected to interact with Andhra Bhawan officials in the capital, the source added.&nbsp;

Reddy will take oath as new Chief Minister of the state on May 30 in Vijayawada.

Earlier Saturday he was unanimously elected as the leader of the YSRC legislature party.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

YSR Congress Party president and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister designate Y S Jaganmohan Reddy is likely to discuss offering outside or issue-based support to the Modi government when he meets the prime minister on Sunday, sources said Saturday.

YSR Congress Party president and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister designate Y S Jaganmohan Reddy is likely to discuss offering outside or issue-based support to the Modi government when he meets the prime minister on Sunday, sources said Saturday. Reddy, whose party stormed to power with a landslide victory in Andhra Pradesh on Thursday, is scheduled to meet Modi in Delhi. The meeting assumes significance as the YSRCP chief during the election campaign had repeatedly said that his party would support whoever promises Andhra Pradesh the Special Category Status. According to an official source, the YSRCP chief will arrive in the national capital tomorrow morning and will meet the prime minister at noon. After meeting Modi, he is expected to interact with Andhra Bhawan officials in the capital, the source added. Reddy will take oath as new Chief Minister of the state on May 30 in Vijayawada. Earlier Saturday he was unanimously elected as the leader of the YSRC legislature party. (With inputs from PTI)

Jaganmohan to meet Modi, likely discuss outside or issue-based support to NDA govt

YSR Congress party has held a meeting in Amravati in AP, where Jaganmohan Reddy has been elected as the legislative assembly leader. Watch full video to know more.

YSR Congress party holds meeting in Amravati

Backed by a massive mandate, YSR Congress Party President YS Jagan Mohan Reddy is likely to take oath as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh on May 30, according to sources in the party.

Jagan Mohan Reddy likely to take oath as AP CM on May 30

The YSR Congress is surging ahead in Andhra Pradesh, establishing early leads in about 24 of the 25 Lok Sabha seats.

The ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP) is ahead in only one seat, according to Election Commission data.

The BJP and the Congress are nowhere in the picture.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-election-results-2019-live-updates-220687">Get LIVE updates here.</a>

All parties fought the election on their own without any alliance, unlike in 2014 when the TDP-BJP sailed together.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;BJP+ well on course to sweep the polls

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lok-sabha-election-2019-bjp-well-on-course-to-sweep-the-polls-220835/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-election-result-2019-tdps-chandrababu-naidu-likely-to-resign-today-220872">Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is set to submit his resignation</a> by the end of the day, reports&nbsp;He will reportedly be sending his resignation to the Governor by Thursday evening.

The YSR Congress is surging ahead in Andhra Pradesh, establishing early leads in about 24 of the 25 Lok Sabha seats. The ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP) is ahead in only one seat, according to Election Commission data.

The YSR Congress is surging ahead in Andhra Pradesh, establishing early leads in about 24 of the 25 Lok Sabha seats. The ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP) is ahead in only one seat, according to Election Commission data. The BJP and the Congress are nowhere in the picture. Get LIVE updates here. All parties fought the election on their own without any alliance, unlike in 2014 when the TDP-BJP sailed together. Watch: BJP+ well on course to sweep the polls Meanwhile, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu is set to submit his resignation by the end of the day, reports He will reportedly be sending his resignation to the Governor by Thursday evening.

YSR Congress surging ahead in 24 Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh

A day after meeting Congress president Rahul Gandhi and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu meets West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee.

Chandrababu Naidu meets Mamata Banerjee for post-poll alliance talks in Kolkata

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/time-and-again-exit-polls-have-failed-to-catch-the-peoples-pulse-chandrababu-naidu-220003">Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu</a> on Monday said he is "1,000 per cent confident" that TDP will win the elections in the state.

"I am 1,000 per cent confident that TDP will win the elections. I do not have even 0.1 per cent doubt. We are going to win," he told a press conference.

The simultaneous elections to the 175-member strong Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha seats across Andhra Pradesh were held on April 11.

The counting of votes will begin on May 23. Reiterating his demand for counting of votes in 50 per cent of VVPATs, the TDP supremo said, "I have been fighting over this issue for the last ten years. VVPAT slips are the main issue for us. If we get a printout, we will believe. Now VVPATs will be counted in only five polling booths (per Assembly segment)."

"The Election Commission is complicating the issue by saying that it will take six to seven days to count VVPATs. SY Qureshi (former Chief Election Commissioner) supported our arguments. Not only us, but even former EC officials are raising the matter," he said.

Claiming that the EC is "losing its credibility", Naidu said that VVPAT slips should be counted first and verified properly.

"There are many problems relating to the counting process. The EC should take steps to resolve them. There are many rumours including that printers may have been manipulated and control panels changed," he said.

Naidu also said, "(Prime Minister Narendra) Modi tried till the last minute to influence voters. That is not correct."

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Monday said he is "1,000 per cent confident" that TDP will win the elections in the state. "I am 1,000 per cent confident that TDP will win the elections.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Monday said he is "1,000 per cent confident" that TDP will win the elections in the state. "I am 1,000 per cent confident that TDP will win the elections. I do not have even 0.1 per cent doubt. We are going to win," he told a press conference. The simultaneous elections to the 175-member strong Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha seats across Andhra Pradesh were held on April 11. The counting of votes will begin on May 23. Reiterating his demand for counting of votes in 50 per cent of VVPATs, the TDP supremo said, "I have been fighting over this issue for the last ten years. VVPAT slips are the main issue for us. If we get a printout, we will believe. Now VVPATs will be counted in only five polling booths (per Assembly segment)." "The Election Commission is complicating the issue by saying that it will take six to seven days to count VVPATs. SY Qureshi (former Chief Election Commissioner) supported our arguments. Not only us, but even former EC officials are raising the matter," he said. Claiming that the EC is "losing its credibility", Naidu said that VVPAT slips should be counted first and verified properly. "There are many problems relating to the counting process. The EC should take steps to resolve them. There are many rumours including that printers may have been manipulated and control panels changed," he said. Naidu also said, "(Prime Minister Narendra) Modi tried till the last minute to influence voters. That is not correct."

'1,000% confident' Telugu Desam Party will win elections in Andhra Pradesh: Naidu

People in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh are likely to face scorching heat in the coming days as temperatures are expected to rise as high as 45 degree Celsius, Meteorological Department (MeT Dept) said on Saturday.

In coming days, Telugu states may also witness thunderstorm in some areas, added the IMD.

According to the Met Department, the states are likely to register temperature between 40 and 45 degree Celsius.

"Present weather situation indicates that there was isolated turf at northeastern Karnataka at the height of 1.3 kilometres and moving towards Tamil Nadu. Due to this, there will be thunderstorms and rainfall in some areas of the Telugu states," metrologist L V Rao told ANI here.

He said,&nbsp;"Due to heat waves coming from northwestern states, the temperature in Andhra and Telangana is going to rise up to 45 degree Celsius."

Telangana's capital Hyderabad has already crossed 42 degree Celsius temperate over the past few days.&nbsp;

People in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh are likely to face scorching heat in the coming days as temperatures are expected to rise as high as 45 degree Celsius, Meteorological Department (MeT Dept) said on Saturday.

People in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh are likely to face scorching heat in the coming days as temperatures are expected to rise as high as 45 degree Celsius, Meteorological Department (MeT Dept) said on Saturday. In coming days, Telugu states may also witness thunderstorm in some areas, added the IMD. According to the Met Department, the states are likely to register temperature between 40 and 45 degree Celsius. "Present weather situation indicates that there was isolated turf at northeastern Karnataka at the height of 1.3 kilometres and moving towards Tamil Nadu. Due to this, there will be thunderstorms and rainfall in some areas of the Telugu states," metrologist L V Rao told ANI here. He said, "Due to heat waves coming from northwestern states, the temperature in Andhra and Telangana is going to rise up to 45 degree Celsius." Telangana's capital Hyderabad has already crossed 42 degree Celsius temperate over the past few days.

MeT Department predicts heat wave in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh

At least 13 people died while many sustained injuries when a bus trying to overtake a two-wheeler, lost its control and hit a tempo traveller in Veldhurthy, Andhra Pradesh on Saturday.

"A private bus, on way to Bengaluru, tried to overtake a two-wheeler and lost its control. It rammed into the divider and hit a tempo traveller coming from the opposite direction," said Fakirappa, Superintendent of Police (SP), Kurnool.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Andhra Pradesh: 13 dead and several injured after two vehicles collided in Veldurthi of Kurnool district today. More details awaited. <a href="https://t.co/lHoIlDsBkO">pic.twitter.com/lHoIlDsBkO</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1127205576495239168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The people travelling on the bus belonged to Jogulamba Gadwal district of Telangana and injured people have been admitted in Kurnool district hospital."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolence to the families of the deceased and hoped for quick recovery of the injured.

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The road accident in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool is deeply unfortunate. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. I hope the injured recover quickly: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1127213113374175232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The road accident in Andhra Pradesh's Kurnool is deeply unfortunate. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. I hope the injured recover quickly," said PM Modi in a statement.

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao also expressed his grief over the incident and ordered the Collector of Jogulamba Gadwal to extend all possible help to the injured people. Rescue process is underway.&nbsp; 
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At least 13 people died while many sustained injuries when a bus trying to overtake a two-wheeler, lost its control and hit a tempo traveller in Veldhurthy, Andhra Pradesh on Saturday.

At least 13 people died while many sustained injuries when a bus trying to overtake a two-wheeler, lost its control and hit a tempo traveller in Veldhurthy, Andhra Pradesh on Saturday. "A private bus, on way to Bengaluru, tried to overtake a two-wheeler and lost its control. It rammed into the divider and hit a tempo traveller coming from the opposite direction," said Fakirappa, Superintendent of Police (SP), Kurnool. Andhra Pradesh: 13 dead and several injured after two vehicles collided in Veldurthi of Kurnool district today. More details awaited. pic.twitter.com/lHoIlDsBkO — ANI (@ANI) May 11, 2019 × "The people travelling on the bus belonged to Jogulamba Gadwal district of Telangana and injured people have been admitted in Kurnool district hospital." Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolence to the families of the deceased and hoped for quick recovery of the injured. The road accident in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool is deeply unfortunate. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. I hope the injured recover quickly: PM @narendramodi — PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 11, 2019 × "The road accident in Andhra Pradesh's Kurnool is deeply unfortunate. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. I hope the injured recover quickly," said PM Modi in a statement. Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao also expressed his grief over the incident and ordered the Collector of Jogulamba Gadwal to extend all possible help to the injured people. Rescue process is underway.

13 killed in bus accident in Andhra Pradesh; 'deeply unfortunate', says Modi

Almost 1 million people have been evacuated as India’s worst cyclone in 20 years hits today. Watch full video to know more.

1 Million people shifted to shelters as Cyclone Fani nears India

About ten thousand villages and 52 towns are likely to be affected by cyclonic storm Fani, which is just 80 kms away from Odisha. Watch full video to know more.

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Three people have died as Cyclone Fani battered Odisha on Friday, news agency PTI reported quoting officials.&nbsp;

India's Meteorological Department(IMD) in Hyderabad tracking cyclone Fani said winds have been blowing at a maximum speed of 240-245 km per hour with very heavy rains in Puri and is now likely moving towards West Bengal coast.

"The eye of the storm is likely to be weakened when it enters West Bengal. The wind speed will be around 100 kmph to 110 kmph," an official of the meteorological department said.

According to the National<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fani-heading-towards-west-bengal-rain-lashes-city-215652"> Emergency Response Centre</a>, under the home ministry, power and telecommunication lines in Puri district of Odisha are completely down and restoration work is on.

Rescuers belonging to the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the Navy, Coast Guard, Army and Air Force have been deployed in a mass operations, closely monitored by the central government.

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Moderate rainfall is expected at most places, heavy to very <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-telecommunication-networks-partially-disrupted-in-puri-bhubaneswar-215591">heavy rainfall </a>at a few places and extremely heavy rains at isolated places over coastal Odisha and adjoining districts of interior parts of the state on Friday.&nbsp;

Most places in Odisha is likely to receive light to moderate rains on Saturday with heavy to very heavy rainfall occurring at isolated places in Balasore and Mayurbhanj districts.

In Andhra Pradesh, light to moderate rainfall is likely at most places with heavy to very heavy rains at isolated places over Srikakulam district on Friday. Also light to moderate rainfall is likely in West Bengal on Friday, with heavy to very heavy showers at a few places and extremely heavy rains at isolated places.

Light to moderate rainfall is expected at most places and heavy rains at isolated places over sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim on Saturday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Three people have died as Cyclone Fani battered Odisha on Friday, news agency PTI reported quoting officials. India's Meteorological Department(IMD) in Hyderabad tracking cyclone Fani said winds have been blowing at a maximum speed of 240-245 km per hour with very heavy rains in Puri and is now likely moving towards West Bengal coast.

Three people have died as Cyclone Fani battered Odisha on Friday, news agency PTI reported quoting officials. India's Meteorological Department(IMD) in Hyderabad tracking cyclone Fani said winds have been blowing at a maximum speed of 240-245 km per hour with very heavy rains in Puri and is now likely moving towards West Bengal coast. "The eye of the storm is likely to be weakened when it enters West Bengal. The wind speed will be around 100 kmph to 110 kmph," an official of the meteorological department said. According to the National Emergency Response Centre, under the home ministry, power and telecommunication lines in Puri district of Odisha are completely down and restoration work is on. Rescuers belonging to the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the Navy, Coast Guard, Army and Air Force have been deployed in a mass operations, closely monitored by the central government. × Moderate rainfall is expected at most places, heavy to very heavy rainfall at a few places and extremely heavy rains at isolated places over coastal Odisha and adjoining districts of interior parts of the state on Friday. Most places in Odisha is likely to receive light to moderate rains on Saturday with heavy to very heavy rainfall occurring at isolated places in Balasore and Mayurbhanj districts. In Andhra Pradesh, light to moderate rainfall is likely at most places with heavy to very heavy rains at isolated places over Srikakulam district on Friday. Also light to moderate rainfall is likely in West Bengal on Friday, with heavy to very heavy showers at a few places and extremely heavy rains at isolated places. Light to moderate rainfall is expected at most places and heavy rains at isolated places over sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim on Saturday. (With inputs from agencies)

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