Science Express in Vizag

Mr. Madhusudhan Rao, Additional Divisional Railway Manager (ADRM)- Waltair, East Coast Railway inauguarted the exhibition train ‘Science Express’ here on Monday. It will be here till August 2 on platform number 8 at Visakhapatnam Railway Station. Addressing the gathering Mr. Madhusudhan said that this special train will entertain students and other visitors with its unique speciality. Students visiting this train, having specially designed 13 air-conditioned coaches, will enjoy learning about cutting-edge research in science explained through interesting audio-visual exhibits and interactive tools, he added. The exhibition timings are from 10 am to 6 pm on these four days. The entry to Platform No. 8 for viewing the exhibition train is free. Students from various schools in the city visited on the day one. It was flaged off on June 5 at Delhi and toured Patna, Rangiya, Mariani, Dibrugarh, Dimapur, Karnakhya, Siliguri, Malda, Howrah, Dhanbad, Ranchi, Rourkela, Sambalpur, Cuttak, Berhampur so far and its journey completes at Gandhinagar on December 22, 2012, according to sources. The Department of Science and Technology, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Forests, took the initiative of running the special train across the country. The aim of the initiative is to showcase an array of biodiversity in the country and adoptable conservation measures.

Naval Dockyard (Visakhapatnam) Wins ENC RAJBHASHA TROPHY

Naval Dockyard (Visakhapatnam) won the ‘Eastern Naval Command Rajbhasha Trophy' for the year 2011-12, for exhibiting excellence in the implementation of the Official Language. Vice Admiral Anil Chopra, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command presented the Trophy to Rear Admiral GS Pabby, Admiral Superintendent, at the Half Yearly Command Staff Meeting held today, 30 Jul 12 at Swarna Jyoti Conference Hall. The Runner-up Trophy for the year was awarded to INS Eksila.

Instituted in 1994, the Rolling Trophy is awarded every year to a Unit or Establishment of the Command that does maximum work in Hindi in accordance with the directives relating to implementation of Official Language, Hindi.

Minar Inaugration

The minar constructed at the entrance of kotaveedhi was inaugrated today evening , the whole surrounding wore a festive look, on the occasion of inaugration a iftar party was organised for more than 2000 people with muslims from different parts of visakhapatnam participating in the event as the construction and completion of the structure was a pending issue with the advent of rumours of takeover of the area by visakhapatnam port trust which had been creating panic among the residents of the locality.
the locals have sighed a relief with recent statement of the GVMC commissioner Sri Ramanajeyalu earlier this week that the plans of port to evict the locals for port expansion will not be tolerated and he would fight for the locals and port will have to mend it ways to curb the pollution which is effecting the whole city.
The construction of the whole structure was taken up by the local youth and have collected contributions among the local community for the cause

Create awareness on Govt scheme : CM

Mr. N. Kiran Kumar Reddy, Chief Minister, asked the party cadre to create awareness on various Government schemes among the public. He spoke to the party cadre during transit halt at the Visakhapatnam Airport on the way to Srikakulam on Friday. Rajiv Yuva Kiranalu will be brought back soon with more employment sources. Representatives of Andhra University Old Students' Association submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister stating that, the financial status of the institute is not up to the mark today, 205 affiliated colleges were diverted to Adikavi Nannaya University, resulted in decrement in annual income by Rs. 25 crore. It is the responsibility of the State Government to establish earlier status to it. Mr. Ganta Srinivas, Minister for Inverstments and Ports, Mr. Dronamraju Srinivas, Government Whip, Mr. Tynala Vijay Kumar, MLA- Visakha North, Mr. M. Vijay Prasad, MLA- Visakha West, Mr. P. Ramesh Babu, MLA- Pendurthy, Mr. Ch. Venkataramaiah, MLA- Gajuwaka and other party cadre met him. Later he went to Srikakulam by a chopper.

Passing out parade for shipwright apprentices

A Ceremonial Passing out Parade was held at Shipwright School today, 27 Jul 12, on the occasion of passing out of Shipwright Apprentice Course 01/2010 batch (Class A-127) from the School. Commander Shantanu Bose, Officer-in-Charge reviewed the Parade and presented the Trophy for the First in Overall Order of Merit to Pradeep Singh Dhami, Shipwright Apprentice and Best in parade Navneeth Katoch , Shipwright Apprentice of the passing out batch.
The Shipwright Apprentices had undergone 117 weeks of training in various facets of Naval Architecture, Ship Building and Maintenance of ships at Shipwright School. They were also exposed to other facets of naval life like Parade and Drill, Small Arms Firing, Sports and Adventure activities.
A valedictory function is also scheduled to be held on 28 Jul 12, which will culminate in a Cultural Programme presented by talented enthusiasts from the Ship’s Company of the School. The Officer-in-charge, Captain Jaison Manathara, Officer-in-Charge, OTNY, Ship Building Centre will be the Chief Guest at the function.

Vice Admiral Kannan Chains Mid-Year Refit Review at Visakhapatnam

Vice Admiral B Kannan, AVSM, VSM, Chief of Material, Integrated Headquarters, Ministry of Defence (Navy) arrived Visakhapatnam on Wednesday, 25 Jul 12, on a three day visit to the Eastern Naval Command. The Admiral chaired the Mid Year Refit and Infrastructure Review (MYRR) 2012 held at Naval Dockyard (Visakhapatnam).The Conference is an apex body that formulates long term maintenance plan for all ships and submarines. Speaking on the occasion, the Flag Officer lauded the Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam on proactive measures it has adopted in support of newly inducted platforms, and new equipment fitted on ships. The Chief of Materiel also complimented the Director General Naval Projects for timely completion and notable progress of major infrastructure projects. The Conference was also attended by Rear Admiral S Nedunchezian, NM, Assistant Chief of Material (D&R), Rear Admiral Jaywant Korde, VSM, Assistant Controller of Logistics from IHQ MoD (Navy) and other senior delegates from Eastern Naval Command and Andaman & Nicobar Joint Command. Vice Admiral Kannan also called on Vice Admiral Anil Chopra, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command and is scheduled to depart on Visakhapatnam on Friday, 27 Jul 12.

Sai Gargi's Kuchipudi Arangetram on 29

Ms. Nemani Sai Gargi (13) an NRI from Nigeria is giving Arangetram (first stage performance) in Kuchipudi on the July 29, according to her grandfather, leading advocate Mr. Kandala Srinivasa Rao. Addressing the press on Thursday he said that this performance would be inaugurated by Sivananda Murthy, of Bheemili and Mr. Dronamraju Srinivas, Government Whip at Kalabharati. She stays in Nigeria along with her parents and is trained by Ms. Bala Kondala Rao, dance teacher for the last four years, he added. Ms. Gargi also good at Bharatanatyam and Odyssy, acted with noted cricket Ms. Sachin Tendulkar in TVS Victor Ad film, modelled for Chennai Silks, Kumaran Silks, appeared in Phir Milenge. She is residing at Lagos city of Nigeria and studying Class Nine at British International School. He futher mentioned that Mr. M. Vijaya Prasad, MLA- Visakha West and others will the guests - of -honour on the stage show. Later he released the poster of the show. Ms. Kamala, her mother, Ms. Bala Kondala Rao, teacher also present.

Arragements made for CM's transit halt

The district administration led by Mr. Lav Agarwal, district collector made neccessary arrangements for the transit halt of Mr. N. Kiran Kumar Reddy, Chief Minister at the Visakhapatnam Airport. He visited the airport on Thursday along with Ms. Swati Lakra, DIG- Visakha Range, Mr. Praveen Kumar, Joint Collector and other officials. Mr. Kiran Kumar Reddy is scheduled to tour in Srikakulam district and participate in Indiramma Baata programes for 3 days from tommorrow. He would fly-in to the Bay City on Friday morning and would leave for Srikakulam by chopper one hour after. As part of it the district administration is on alert.

Change the reservation system : OC Assn

Mr. G. Karunakar Reddy, the President of the OC Welfare Sangham has demanded the government to change the reservation system. He demanded the Government to provide reservations according to the economical status of all the sections in the society. Speaking to newsmen on Wednesday, he pointed out that "OC" is nowhere referred as Upper Caste it is referred as "Other Caste" which doesn't have any reservation and other support from the Government. He further mentioned,there should be a provision for education and employment to poorer sections of the upper castes taking the ‘economic backwardness’ into consideration. He demanded the Government should implement the Constitutional Act which refers to conduct survey of such communities listed under reservation category and remove the developed ones. The Reservation Head "OC" has now become the least prefered one,and is almost eliminated from the Government register. He alleged that even after 60 years of Independence, economic discrimination is continuing, which is very unfortunate. He appealed to the Central and the State government to change the reservation system by taking ‘economic backwardness’ into account, applicable to all sections of people, including poor in upper castes. And this can be done by scrapping the existing reservation system based on religion and caste. Ms. Vijayalakshmi, vice president of the association and Mr. Bhavaraju, district representative were also present.

Science Express in city on July 30

"Science Express - Biodiversity Special" - An exhibition-train, will be arriving in the city on July 30 and would be open to visitors till August 2 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. This 16 Coach,AC train, is an innovative and unique mobile exhibition, which will be travelling across the country, and is at present on its fifth phase from June 5 to December 22.
After the United Nations declared 2011- 2020, as the Decade on Biodiversity and UN Decade for the Fight against Desertification,this idea of the exhibition train was initiated by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) in collaboration with Ministry of Environment and Forests (MOEF). The train also houses the popular Vikram A. Sarabhai Community Science Centre (VASCSC), ‘Joy of Science’, hands-on lab as well as teachers’ training facility.

Activity needed : PAC Chief warns industries

Mr. R. Prakash Reddy, Chairman, Public Accounts Committee (PAC) warned the industries and other individual parties who had not started construction on the land allotted by the Government. The Committee visited the Health City at Hanumanthawaka where 30 acres of land was allotted to 13 organisations,out of which,only 02 units,Apollo Hospitals and Kumari Hospital have begun contruction The committee also paid a visit to several other locations i.e.,the Housing Complexes to be contructed by Sriram Properties and Developers, Rajiv Gruhakalpa colony in Marikavalasa, Lukes Minority Education Society at Rushikonda (land allotted by AP Tourism Development Corporation), and other disputed lands in the city. The committee reviewed the land allotments made by the Congress government from 2006 to 2011,and wanted to resume allotment of lands that were not utilised for the original purpose. Mr. Lav Agarwal, District Collector, Mr. Praveen Kumar, Joint Collector, Mr. K. Sasidhar, Vice Chairman, Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority (VUDA) and other officials also joined the committee.

Diamond Jewellary Expo in Hotel Dolphin

Sri Krishna Jewellers,is organising a three day Diamond Jewellery expo on July 26 and 27 ,at Hotel Dolphin,as announced by Mr. Y. Mallikharjuna Rao,Showroom Manager. Addressing the media conference on Wednesday he said that, the Hyderabad- based Sri Krishna Group has diversified their interests in Jewellery Exports, Retail, Real Estate Development, Infrastructure, Architecture and Communication and they are organizing Great Discount Offers on Diamonds in the city. This expo will be open from 11am to 8 pm, and will offer certified diamonds from 0.02 to 0.12 cents @ Rs. 49,000 per carat which is a special price on the occasion of this expo. Designs in different models of certified Diamonds, Antique Styles and Gems will be placed. " Quality is never compromised and all products are Hall marked, duly certified,and guaranteed in the relevant areas", Mr. Mallikarjuna Rao added.

Govt land given away to big wigs : PAC

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC), led by Mr. R. Prakash Reddy, began its two day tour in Visakhapatnam district on Tuesday. The Committee had visited several government lands allotted to various industries and private persons under dispute and it felt that lands worth crores were given away on a platter to the rich and the MNCs by violating all the guidelines.
Mr. D. Uma Maheswara Rao, member pointed out that even after getting thousands of acres of land with all subsidised infrastructure, Hindujas thermal power project, in return showing empty hands to the people. He said that out of the promised 1100 MW power, they are supplying only 25 per cent of it and the rest being sold out at very high rates. The company mortgaged the land and obtained crores of rupees from the banks whereas the landlosers were left high and dry, he added. About Rs. 600 crores worth lands were given to the real estate companies by the Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority (VUDA), which needed to be probed. Later on the committee went to next project at Madhurawada. Mr. B Durga Prasada Rao, Mr. Anam Vivekananda Reddy, Mr. K. Kannababu and others are part of this committee. Mr. Lav Agarwal, District Collector, Mr. K. Sasidhar, Vice Chairman, VUDA also joined the visit along with the committee.

Production got affected at VSP

Due to one day strike observed by the trade unions today, the production of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant got affected. One Blast Furnace including its downstream units is down. The plant is running at a minimum level as the manpower strength is limited to 100% of executives and around 20% of non-executives. Keeping safety in view, the units are being run at a minimum level.
There are around 21 Maharatna / Navratna companies in the country and RINL-VSP is the only company which is not listed. Listing is mandatory for VSP to keep its Navratna tag intact. Listing of the company enables organization to grow further and helps in realization of ambitious expansion plans of RINL-VSP in the next decade.

Ganta holds review session

Mr. Ganta Srinivasa Rao, Minister for Ports and Infrastructure held a review meeting with district officials and other concerned authorities on Monday, on the occasion of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) visit to the city. He told the officials that, this committee would probe the land allotment to the Hinduja’s National Power Project and other land alienation issues led by Telugu Desam MLA Mr. R. Prakash Reddy, he said. The committee would also go into the lands allotted by the Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority (VUDA) to various agencies, including private and government, and the APIIC to the IT sector. Mr. Ganta warned the IT industries which has received the lands at the low cost, will be taken back, if they didn't start the construction within three months. Mr. Lav Agarwal, District Collector, Mr. K. Sasidhar, Vice Chairman, VUDA, Mr. B. Ramanjaneyulu, Commissioner Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation etc also present.

National level Drama festival on 25

Mr. Raju Tatayya of PMPK Fine Arts, Ongole, announced that a two day National level drama festival would be organised from July 25 here in the city. Speaking to newsmen on Monday at VJF Press Club, he said that about 110 entries were received from various states apart from Andhra Predesh, out of that 40 were selected. Ten dramas will be exhibited at four cities, best drama at the each venue will be given citation and top dramas will be presented in New Delhi in the month of October. The best of the total entries will receive one lakh cash award. As part of the festival, Srikaram, Nakshatram, Pitruvanam, Raitante, Anubandham, Sitralu Sudaro, Perantam etc will be displayed, he added.

Narava elected to FFSI

Mr. Narava Prakasa Rao, Secretary of Vizag Film Society (VFS) has been elected as regional council member of the Federation of Film Societies of India (FFSI) Southern Region consisting of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Pondicherry and Kerala. The FFSI held its two day meeting at Sarathi Studio premises, Hyderabad, on July 21 and 23. Mr Prakasa Rao, who was elected for the second time unopposed, will be member for two years. He has been associated with film society movement in Vizag since 20 years. He was former vice-principal of Mrs AVN College and also founder secretary of Bala Vikas Foundation and honorary secretary of VFS. The present position will enable him to attend as official delegate for national and international film festivals held from time to time. He will attend as official delegate for the Goa International Film Festival which will take place in Goa in November 2012.

Minister promises to solve land problem

Mr. C Ramachandraiah, Endowments Minister has assured MLAs that he would take up the land issues, lease extension of lands to the existing cultivators and allotment and extension of leases to the shops under Simhachalam Devasthanam with Mr. N Kiran Kumar Reddy, Chief Minister for early solution. While discussing various topics, the Minister responded to it in an optimistic way, according to the local MLAs Mr. M. Srinivas Rao, MLA- Bheemili, Mr. M. Vijay Prasad, MLA- Visakha West. It was decided to continue the existing leases of mango, cashew and flower gardens of Devasthanam to the existing parties by extending lease amount from 10 to 20%. It was decided to increase the rental value upto 33% and renew the leases to the existing owners. The Government wanted to provide loans to the land losers in BRTS for construction of houses where they were allotted house sites, the MLAs mentioned. Mr. E Pratap Reddy, Minister for Law and Mr. Ganta Srinivasa Rao, Minister for Ports and Infrastructure were present.

YSRCP demands solution to handloom weavers problems

The Women wing of YSR Congres Party headed by Ms. P. Ushakiran, held a mass dharna at the Gandhi statue opposite to Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation administrive building in support of YS Vijayalakshmi who staged a dharna in Sircilla demanding relief for weavers on Monday. She also demanded the State government to immediately waive the remaining loans. The city convenor women wing said that the State Government has been neglecting the weavers.During the tenure of the departed chief minister Dr. YS Rajasekhar Reddy, who provided loans worth Rs 319 crore were waived. Now the situation reverse in the State, the banks benefited with the waiver but the problem remains with weavers. As they do not have funds for investment, most of the weavers have turned into daily wage earners. The problems of weavers and other working class would be solved only if party president YS Jaganmohan Reddy became the Chief Minister. Mr. GV Ravi Raju, senior party activist and other YSR Congress main stream leaders supported this protest. A large number of party activists joined the one day relay strike.
Mr. Dronamraju Srinivas, Government Whip, Mr. Lav Agarwal, Special Officer and District Collector, Mr. M. Vijay Prasad, MLA- Visakha West, Mr. Ch Venkatramaiah, MLA- Gajuwaka, Mr. P Ramesh, MLA- Pendurthy, Mr. M Srinivas, MLA- Bheemili, and Corporation officials attended.

Youth wing of Bhagavan sri sathya sai seva organisations launch innovative service activity - "SAI NEEDA"

Inspired by the noble preaching and guidance of bhagavan sri sathya saibaba, the dedicated and dynamic youth wing of sri sathya sai seva organisations have taken up an ambitious noble service project, ‘SAI-NEEDA’- Mass tree plantation programme all over Andhra Pradesh.
This noble project tookoff to a flying start when sri SG Chalam, state president, sri sathya sai seva organisations formally launched this project by planting a sapling at the divine Puttaparthi ashram premises on the holy day of Gurupurnima.
The idea of taking up mass tree plantation has come to the young minds keeping inview the increasing huge pollution levels as a result of massive industrialisation, increased vehicular traffic etc., several people/agencies take up tree plantation programmes. However, this project is different!
The youth choose Govt. schools across Andhra Pradesh including remote areas as the venues for tree plantation. The idea was that the water which is used by the students to clean their lunch plates after having ‘mid-day meal’ itself will take care of the water for the plants. Moreover, the programme tookoff now so that the ensuing rainy season will further take care of the water for the plants.
It is learnt that a human being consumes/inhales about Rs.700 worth of oxygen( by taking the cost of an oxygen cylinder) a day. An average tree generates Rs.200 worth oxygen a day. So, a human being consumes oxygen from about 4 tress a day. But what is that we are contributing in return to the Nature ? This mind boggling issue ignited the young minds which resulted in this noble project after a thorough brain storming.
So with a view to generate more oxygen, to make the environment clean and healthy especially to take care of the future, SAI NEEDA programme was taken up in all districts of Andhra Pradesh. Already over 10,000 plants were planted in a short span and the target is to complete the planting across Andhra Pradesh by 15th August, 2012.
As part of this programme, SAI NEEDA was inaugurated by the special deputy collector sri N.satyanarayana at Krishnapuram village of padmanabham mandal in vizag district. Speaking on the occasion, sri satyanarayana lauded the noble project. Inspired by the gesture of sri sathya sai seva organisation, sri sathyanarayana announced that SAI NEEDA programme will be taken up by all government schools under his purview.
He requested the citizens also to take part in this project. Several senior Government officials, sri DSN murthy, regional coordinator(spiritual), sri A.Ramprasad, regional youth coordinator(youth), sri K.Ramesh, district youth coordinator of sri sathya sai seva organisations, several youth and office bearers, villagers of Chittivalasa village have participated in this programme with lot of enthusiasm.

Oppose destructive development : Prof Haragopal

Noted human rights activist Prof. K Haragopal has said that the people should oppose destructive development being taken up by the government on Saturday. Addressing the two day national seminar on Coastal Corridor and Destructive Development in the city, he said that the government was taking forward the development to destroy instead of improving it. The Indian Government has decided to implement "Green Hunt" - that destroys the pleasant atmosphere and wipes out the residents in the Eastern Ghats - similar to that of European countries, he mentioned. It was began in the country after IMF sponsored loan to the Government. All such decisions were taken by the then big wigs like Mr. Rajiv Gandhi- Prime Minister, Mr. Manmohan Singh, Mr.Kapil Sibal, Mr. Monteksingh Ahluvalia and Mr. P. Chidambaram who lost in the direct election by the people of India and were nominated to Rajyasabha, Prof. Haragopal pointed out.
"About 82 countries are waging a war against the destructive development apart from India ", he added. Mr. Praful Kumar Samantha, Environmentalist from Odisha, Mr. M Timma Reddy, People’s Monitoring Group on Electricity Regulation and others also present.

YSR - CP opposed plan to merge BML, AKP in GVMC

The YSR Congress Party team headed by Mr. GV Ravi Raju and P Uma Rani, opposed the plan to merge Bhimili and Ankapalle in Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation purview on Saturday. They submitted a representation to Mr. Ganta Srinivas, Minister for Ports and Infrastructure at the GVMC office premises where the review is going on in this regard. They demanded for public opinion to be conducted at concerned locations apart from the city. They threatened that they would oppose any move by the Corporation in this regard. The huge number of YSR Congress activists surrounded Mr. Lav Agarwal, special officer, GVMC and Mr. Ganta Srinivas soon after their arriaval. Mr. K Hanoku, Mr. VS Divakar Pakki, Mr. P Usha Kiran, Mr, Chokkakula Venkata Rao, and a large number of activists present.

Miss Vizag Contest on Aug. 25

Mr. Malla Vijay Prasad, MLA- Visakha West released the poster of " Miss Vizag Contest " on Saturday and said it would be organised in the city on August 25 by safeguarding the Indian culture and traditional values. Speaking to newsmen at a function, he further mentioned that this event is being conducted to trace out the hidden talents among young girls in the city. He invited all the those interested girls to participate in the contest without any hesitation and assured that he would provide a platform to the winner of ‘Miss Vizag Contest’ in his ensuing film. It is being sponsored by SIMS Group of Companies and Bommarillu Group of Companies. Mr. SK Panda, General Manager, Bommarillu Group of Companies, Mr. Gupta, Chairman, SIMS also present at the function.

Review on GVMC functionality held

Mr. Ganta Srinivas, Minister for Ports and Infrastrures has reviewed the functionality of the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) on Saturday. "Everything should be done with transparency and political approach", Minister ordered the GVMC officials. He asked the Commissioner GVMC to consult MLAs and the Special Officer before taking any policy decisions or resolutions without going unilaterally as there was no Municipal Council at present. It was held in the absence of the GVMC Council. He said all projects, whether fly-over or BRTS Road or housing, taken up with JNNURM funds should be completed on time. Even if 10 per cent of work is left over, entire 90 per cent of work would go waste, he added. A review meeting should be conducted monthly or fortnightly to discuss all issues and problems in detail. Mr Ramanjaneyulu, Commissioner GVMC gave a PowerPoint presentation on various projects, including water supply, fly-over, housing and BRTS Roads, taken up by the Corporation with JNNURM funds and other details like financial status, tax collection and manpower since the date of the Council tenure ended i.e. 25-Feb-2012.
Mr. Dronamraju Srinivas, Government Whip, Mr. Lav Agarwal, Special Officer and District Collector, Mr. M. Vijay Prasad, MLA- Visakha West, Mr. Ch Venkatramaiah, MLA- Gajuwaka, Mr. P Ramesh, MLA- Pendurthy, Mr. M Srinivas, MLA- Bheemili, and Corporation officials attended.

Thousands Perform Sri Lalitha Sahasra Nama Koti Kumkumarchana Puja with Utmost Devotion and Fervour

It was festivity and spiritual fragrance spread over the sprawling Lanka grounds, Old Gajuwaka on Friday, 20th July, 2012. "SRI LALITHA SAHASRA NAMA KOTI KUMKUMARCHANA" was organised by sri sathya sai seva samithi, Gajuwaka under the guidance of sri sathya sai seva organisations, Visakhapatnam district at Lanka grounds, old gazuwaka on 20th July, 2012(Friday) for Universal Peace, Harmony and for Society’s welfare.
The Puja was traditionally inaugurated by Sri SG Chalam, state president, sri sathya sai seva organizations, Andhra Pradesh by lighting the Jyothi. Speaking on the occasion, Sri Chalam called upon the devotees to follow the noble path advocated by bhagavan sri sathya sai baba by protecting and propagating the Human values of “sathya, dharma, shanthi, Prema and Ahimsa”. The Avatar of sri Bhagavan sri sathya sai baba vaaru is a rare and unique phenomenon in which he personally practiced and taught World the Human values for a better society, Universal well being and Religious Harmony. Ganapathi Puja, Rutvigvaranamu, navaavaranaarchanamu, Kotikumkumarchana, punyahavaachanamu, Parishat Prayahchithhamu, Mahanyasa Purvaka Abhishechanamu were performed with utmost devotion by thousands of ladies who thronged the venue right from morning on Friday. sri vr nageswara rao, district president, sri KSN Raju, district spiritual coordinator, sri D.Raghavarao, district coordinator-sevadal(men), Sri Nandeeswara Rao, convener, Gazuwaka Samithi, smt. KVS Eswari, Mahila Coordinator, Gazuwaka, several office bearers of sri sathya sai seva organisations, Visakhapatnam district, , have participated in the Puja.
More than 3500 lady devotees from Visakhapanam city, gazuwaka, steel plant, simhachalam, kurmannapalem, aganampudi, devarapalli, yelamanchili, chodavaram participated in the Kumkumarchana.

Online admissions to MBBS/BDS

The online counselling for admission into MBBS/BDS courses into various medical and dental colleges in the State for the academic year 2012-13 began here on Friday at the online admission centre, said camp officer of Andhra UNiversity, Dr. MS Prasad Babu. He said a total of 3,880 seats in medical and 1,071 seats in dental courses are available for counselling. The first phase of counselling will last till July 23 and the second and third phases of counselling will be held from July 23 to 27. Prof. Babu said that V Sandesh, who bagged 11th rank and Ms V Rashmitha, a 55th ranker, both from Visakhapatnam, were admitted at the AU centre on the first day. Dr. PVGD Prasad, Rector- Andhra University handed over allotment letters to the two top rankers and congratulated the parents for the concern about their wards. He congratulated all the rankers. Prof. A Satyanarayana was also present.

New techniques to boost sugar production : IISR

Dr S Soloman, Lucknow’s Indian Institute of Sugarcane Research (IISR) director announced said that revolutionary changes under Sugar Vision 2020 will be brought about in agriculture to develop the sugar production to 33 million tonnes in the country on Friday. Speaking at 25th Sugarcane Research Developers’ Meeting held at Platinum Jubilee Guest House, Andhra University in the city, he further mentioned that the meeting is focussed on improved production of sugarcane with the help of modern technology. Agriculture researchers participated in the meeting jointly organised by the AP Commissionerate of Sugar and Acharya NG Ranga Agricultural University and put forth several suggestions. Scientists suggested modern methods of production with less cost. It was declared that there was a need to increase the production of sugar in proportion to the demand. India is the second largest producer and consumer of sugarcane. Dr. Prof. PVGD Prasad Reddy, Rector - Andhra University, and other scientists from various industries were participated.

CBI joint director visits VUDA

Mr. VV Lakshmi Narayana, joint director- CBI visited the the premises of Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority (VUDA) on Friday. He was in the city to investigate into the land scams of VUDA. According to sources, he was in the city for the last two days to look after various issues. As part of the visit, Mr. Narayana, inspected the premises so as to select accommodation for the special court for the CBI cases. “The visit has nothing to do with the ongoing CBI investigation into VUDA land scam,” the souces mentioned. Earlier, he reviewed the functioning of the local office and the ongoing investigations into various cases, including VUDA land scam. Mr. K. Sasidhar, Vice Chairman, VUDA accompanied the CBI-JD.

Training to APEPDCL Employees

A training session on Right to Information Act and Disciplinary Actions for APEPDCL Employees commenced on 19th July 2012. The session was inaugurated by Mrs. Vijaya Lalitha, APEPDCL Cheif G.M. (Human Resources). Speaking on the occassion she had iterated the importance of Human Resources and Right to Information Act. This session will last for three days. Mr. K.S. Srinivas, General Secretary AP TRANSCO, Mr. U. Chandrasekharam, G.M. (HRD), Murthy, Trainer(H.R.) also participated in this session.  

GVMC Officers that are going on transfer to other locations have been felicitated by GOWA.

ISCUF conducts Multi-State cultural festival

The State Council of Indian Society for Cultural Co-operation and Friendship (ISCUF) will organise a multi-State cultural (dance) programme on Sunday in the city, according its State General Secretaray Mr. TS Sukumaran. Speaking to newsmen on Thursday at VJF Press Club, he said that this session is organising to promote national unity, integration and cultural values. This session would be held at Kala Bharati auditorium. He futher mentioned that that the ISCUF had been striving to promote cultural co-operation and friendship among people in the country by conducting various programmes for over seven decades. It was decided to extend its activities further in the recent ISCUF’s national meet and as a part of it they were organising cultural festivals in all areas across the country as present situation needs better understanding and co-operation between people of different States. Cultural teams from Assam, West Bengal, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Punjab States would exhibit dance programmes to help reflect the culture of respective States. Mr. Vatti Vasantha Kumar, State Tourism Minister and Mr. B Ramanjaneyulu, GVMC Commissioner would attend the function. George Thomas, Secretary of Kerala Kala Samithi, Sanatan Das, NN Rathol, Shinde Mahadev Rao, Panchali Benarjee and others present.

Law admissions begin at GITAM

The School of Law, GITAM University approved by Bar Council of India invited applications for 5-year integrated BA, LLB(Hons), BBA., LLB(Hons.) and 3-year LL.B programs for the academic year 2012-13 commencing from August, 2012. For 5-year integrated programs candidates should have passed intermediate examination (10+2) or its equivalent with a minimum of 50 per cent aggregate marks and should not be of more than 20 years of age as on July 1, 2012. For 3-year LL.B program candidates should have passed any degree from a recognised university with a minimum of 50 per cent aggregate marks and should not be of more than 22 years of age as on July 1, 2012. Eligible candidates can download the application from the university website www.gitam.edu. Last date for receipt of application is August 6, 2012. School Director Prof.Y Satyanarayana said in view of growing demand for management oriented Legal Studies Gitam University is starting 5-Year Integrated B.B.A., LL.B course, which is for the first time in the State. As an integral part of the study, the School of Law proposes to impart intensive training in the skills required for advocacy, judiciary, corporate sector, academics and Indian Civil Services from the fourth year of their study.

Find solution for pollution control : MCPI

The Marxist Communist Party of India (MCPI) and the All India Centre of Trade Unions (AICTU) have demanded the Governments to find out new techniques to control the pollution released by the industries instead of closing them. Speaking at a press conference Mr. S. Gangadhar Reddy, General secretary of AICTU on Thursday, he said that, thousands of employees will become jobless if the industries windup, and will affect the livelihood of many communities. He further said that the industries can use latest technology to reduce pollution. They can also take more safety norms at the work spots to avoid mishaps. He felt that mere closure of industrial units will not solve the purpose and at the same time, the government and the industrialists must initiate steps to control pollution levels that harm the health condition of the people nearby. Referring to the acute power crisis in the State, he demanded the government to promote more power plants run by thermal, gas-based, wind power and solar energies to cater to the needs of all sectors-agriculture, industrial and domestic.

Purandeswari meets Meena over airport

Ms. D. Purandheswari, Minister of State for HRD met Mr. Namo Narain Meena, Minister of State for Finance and senior officials, including Mr. Sumit Bose, Finance Secretary (Expenditure) with regard to the proposal for extra manpower for Vizag Airport to operate round-the-clock. Mr Meena gave an assurance to the minister. The Defence Ministry had requested for additional manpower for 24/7 operations. This was not approved earlier by the Finance Ministry. Now, on the request of MP - Visakhapatnam and based on the urgency and the need for getting permission for Silk Air to get approvals to connect Vizag globally, and also the pressing need of Defence for additional manpower at Vizag Airport, the Finance Secretary and the Minister of State for Finance responded positively.

Don't indulge in ragging : Civil Judge Surya Rao

Mr. Surya Rao, Senior Civil Judge and secretary of District Legal Services adivsed the students of Andhra University that ragging is a very serious offence and the consequences would be disastrous. Speaking at an Anti Ragging Session held at Andhra University Women's hostel on Wedensday he, said that the enactment of the Andhra Pradesh Prohibition of Ragging Act in detail and advised the girl students not to participate or perform any act of ragging which could endanger their career. " Parents of children have lots of hope on them and if they indulged in such activities, their dreams would be shattered", he added. Mr. Kuppili Muralidhar, senior advocate and president of Forum of Legal Professionals advised the girl students to concentrate on their career rather than rag. Mr. S. Venkata Rao, ACP (East) exhorted the students to take the help of the police in reporting instances of ragging and he promised that the names of the complainant would remain secret. Even an SMS would alert the police, he said.

United Electricity Employees Union meet

The United Electricity Employees’ Union affiliated to Centre of Trade Unions (CITU) is oganising eighth State convention on August 6 and 7, according Mr. GS Rajeswara Rao, CITU regional honorary president. Announcing this at a press conference on Wednesday, he said that this convention would discuss all the unsolved issues at the Ambedkar Bhavan near Rama Talkies. He further mentioned that the union was formed in 1989 and after 23 years of its service, the State convention is being held here. On the occasion, reception committee for the convention nominated, the members are as follows : MLC MVS Sarma as Chairman, A Ajay Sarma as Co-Chairman, GS Rajeswara Rao as Secretary, R Satya Rao as Treasurer and 24 other leaders as members. He appealed to all the union leaders to make the ensuing convention a success.

Vice Chief of Naval Staff at Visakhapatnam

The Visakhapatnam Auto-rickshaw Drivers Association (affiliated to CITU) conducted a mass protest at the Visakhapatnam District Collector's Office on Tuesday with a demand to withdraw the illegal cases registered against their Association members. Staging the mass dharna, Mr. Appala Raju, Secretary, Visakhapatnam Auto Drivers' Association, said, that the city traffic police are conducting raids in association with APSRTC and are trying to push these three wheelers out of the city limits. It was due to an incident held at Gopalapatnam Junction on Tuesday protesting when an auto driver was arrested by the police. They demanded to release all the auto drivers unconditionally. Later they submitted a memorandum to the district collector. Earlier, about 100 auto rickshaw drivers conducted a huge rally from Women's College near Old Jail Road to Collectorate.

INS Magar Celebrates Silver Jubilee

INS Magar, a large Landing Ship Tank (Large) of the Indian Navy, celebrated her 25th Anniversary at Vishakapatnam today, 18 Jul 12. The Anniversary celebrations were marked by a host of activities that included a painting competition for children at community hall on the theme, ‘Lets go beaching’, and a cultural show at Yerrada beach. A traditional cake cutting ceremony was conducted on board in the presence of Commander Nikhil Joshi, the Commanding Officer, who congratulated the crew and the support staff on the efforts put in by them in keeping the ship fighting fit.
Commissioned on this day in 1987 at Kolkata by Admiral RH Tahiliani, the then Chief of Naval Staff, the ship is the first indigenous amphibious assault ship of the Indian Navy, and the lead ship of its class of a total of 05 ships in active Naval service. In its primary role as amphibious assault ship, the ship can carry a variety of infantry combat vehicles, large trucks and troops, as well as a commando carrying helicopter for airborne induction. The ship is specially designed for beaching operations, which enables the landing of troops, tanks and vehicles on enemy shores, taking the fight right upto the enemy’s door.
During its 25 year-journey, the ship has rendered glorious service to the nation in times of crises and disasters. INS Magar has played a major role in various operations conducted by the Indian Navy. Its participation in Op Pawan during IPFK operation in Sri Lanka is noteworthy where the ship played a pivotal role in movement of logistics during the period of active operations. As part of Op Madad in the aftermath of the Tsunami in 2004 the ship evacuated over 1300 stranded personnel from various islands in Andaman and Nicobar and rendered assistance to many in worst hit regions of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. It has also undertaken many goodwill missions to littoral nations in the Indian Ocean Region.

VCT awarded "Fastest Growing Container Terminal of the Year"

"Major Port of the Year 2012" award was won by Visakhapatnam Port Trust (VPT). This Award Category is judged on the parameters such as Operational & Financial Performance, Efficiency Parameters, Variety of Cargo handled.
Visakha Container Terminal was awarded "Fastest Growing Container Terminal of the Year" by Exim India's South East India Cargo & Logistics Award 2012 during South East CEO Conclave & Awards 2012 ceremony at Chennai. This award category is judged on the parameters like Volumes Handled, Year on Year Growth, Operational Performance, IT Efficient, Hi-tech Facilities, Customer Satisfaction.VCT has posted a growth of over 60% during 2011-12 which is the highest growth posted by any container terminal in the country. While Mr.Sushil Mulchandani, Dy COO, during his address lauded all the partners in progress for their continued patronage and support; in achieving the coveted award.

Student Organisations held bandh

The Student organisations including SFI, AISF and other associations.along with Left parties have called for a statewide bandh of educational institutions on Tuesday. Mr.Jagan, secretary SFI told newsmen that this bandh called against the failure of the supply of textbooks and other common facilities at all the schools. The educational institutions including Andhra University remain closed. As per the requirement about 5.13 lakh books should be printed this year, but the Government had been supplied only 2.5 lakh books. He also demanded that the mid-day meal scheme be restructured and food preparations be decentralised as the food was getting stale with centralised kitchen concept. The SFI will also hold mass protests on July 10 and 11 to put pressure on the government, he added. Some of the schools were collecting thousands of rupees in the name of building development fund and the government had failed to restrict them. He further demanded that the Government has to take the action against such schools which did not follow any norms. Students from other organisations also participated in bandh.

Dalit Elite team demands justice

The Dalit Elite team headed by Dr. C. Suryanarayana, former head of the department AU Commerce and Management demanded the State Government to provide two acres of land to all the SCs residing in Lakshmipeta village where five dalits were brutally killed by local Kapu community members recently. Addressing the press on Tuesday , he said that the team had visited the incident spot and noted the unjustice happened to the poor people. Committee distributed 6,000 rupees to each victim family and 1,000 to the severely injured he added. He further demanded that the villagers doesn't have proper drinking water, even though a reservoir exists within four Km arena. As per the Koneru Ranga Rao Committee, all the landless Dalit should be provided with two acres of pakka sites, which the Government has failed. Other demands of this committee are:
(1) Rs.10 lakhs should be given to families of those died in the incident.
(2) Rs.5 lakhs should be paid to those who were injured.
(3) 5 acres of land be given to the each of the affected families.
(4) The culprits should be punished severely.
(5) They should be allotted the same land which they have been cultivating for the past 10 years.
Members of the team also present at the conference.

YSR Cong protests against irregular power supply

The huge number of YSR Congress party activists staged a mega protest to "expose" the State Government's failure to provide uninterrupted power supply in the State on Tuesday. Mr. Vamsi Krishna Srinivas, city head pointed out the promises given during the election campaign in 2009 when Mr. Rajasekhar Reddy was alive. Later on the ruling Congress neglected all the schemes introduced by the departed leader, he added. It was held in response to the call given by the State Committee of YSRCP. Protest was staged at the Andhra Pradesh Electical Power Distribution Corporation Limited (APEPDCL) near Gurudwara. About two thousand party activists participated in the dharna and raised slogans against the ruling party on the occasion. Mr. GV Ravi Raju, former corporator, Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) and incharge Srikakulam wing, YSRCP, Dr. Zaheer Ahmed, Ms. Usha Kiran and other senior leaders joined the protest camp. The route was blocked for three hours in the busy hours.

Auto-drivers protest at Collectorate

The Visakhapatnam Auto-rickshaw Drivers Association (affiliated to CITU) conducted a mass protest at the Visakhapatnam District Collector's Office on Tuesday with a demand to withdraw the illegal cases registered against their Association members. Staging the mass dharna, Mr. Appala Raju, Secretary, Visakhapatnam Auto Drivers' Association, said, that the city traffic police are conducting raids in association with APSRTC and are trying to push these three wheelers out of the city limits. It was due to an incident held at Gopalapatnam Junction on Tuesday protesting when an auto driver was arrested by the police. They demanded to release all the auto drivers unconditionally. Later they submitted a memorandum to the district collector. Earlier, about 100 auto rickshaw drivers conducted a huge rally from Women's College near Old Jail Road to Collectorate.

Director General Medical Services(NAVY) at ENC

Surgeon Vice Admiral AC Anand, Director General, Medical Services (Navy) arrived Visakhapatnam on a five day visit to the Eastern Naval Command on Sunday, 15 Jul 12. On arrival, the Flag Officer called on Vice Admiral Anil Chopra, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief at the Headquarters, Eastern Naval Command. The Admiral visited a few ships and interacted with Officers and men of the medical fraternity stationed at Visakhapatnam. He is also scheduled to visit establishments of the Command including INS Kalinga and attend a clinical meet hosted by INHS Kalyani prior departure on Thursday, 19 Jul 12.

Development Programme on "MENTORING"

Sri YR Reddy, Director (Personnel) RINL-Visakhapatnam Steel Plant inaugurated a new and unique two day programme on “Mentoring” organized by HRD group in VSP. The renowned faculty Dr P Narendranath from Institute of Public Enterprises, Hyderabad delivered the lecture on the subject “Mentoring”.
Speaking on the occasion, Sri Reddy said that mentoring employees is an excellent method used to increase employee productivity and mentoring in the workplace plays a vital role in corporate training and employee retention. He said "Mentoring" is a process that always involves communication and is relationship based and added that Mentorship is a personal developmental relationship in which a more experienced or more knowledgeable person helps to guide a less experienced or less knowledgeable person. However, true mentoring is more than just answering occasional questions or providing ad hoc help. It is about an ongoing relationship of learning, dialog, and challenge.

Earlier, Sri A Radhakrishna, GM (Training & HRD) welcomed the gathering of HODs who have been identified as Mentors in RINL.

Three records for singing Janagamana : Ganta

Mr. Ganta Srinivas, Minister for Ports and Infrastructre congratulated Vizagites for participating in singing event of the National Anthem (Janaganamana on January 24, 2012 ) which received three records on Monday. Addressing the gathering at the celebrations, he said that it is a team effort initiated by AKME Events and supported by SVS Placements, in which about 6,508 boys ad girls from various schools in the city sang the Indian National Anthem for 18 times which created an Asian Record, Limca Book of Records and an Indian Record. During the session the minister displayed all the three awards to the public and appreciated the media support throughout the session on that day including first aid to the children who fell ill. Mr. Malla Vijay Prasad, MLA- Visakha West, Mr. Adari Kishore Kumar, representative of the student wing and others present at the celebrations.

Meet the VUDA- VC today

Mr. K. Sashidhar, vice chairman- The Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority (VUDA) will attend the Meet the VC session on Tuesday, according to the authorities of the organisation. He will attend to all grievances from applicants as well as users of VUDA from 10 am onwards at the VUDA Children Theatre. The programme is aimed at making VUDA ‘pending-free’ of approvals, permissions or any other kind of services from all wings. Session would be more useful to the Vizagites and other clients. Registration of applicants attending the programme will be done in a planned way, so that their grievance would be recorded for onspot or time-bound duration. Applicants or users seeking institutional service from administration such as registration of sites, houses purchased from VUDA, LRS, building plan approvals, layout approvals, etc. Mr. Sasidhar advised all the interested people are welcomed to take part in it.

Schemes to Strengthen Coop societies : Kasu

The State will make all efforts to strengthen the cooperative societies, said Minister for Cooperation Kasu Venkatakrishna Reddy. Addressing the regional meeting of International Year of Cooperation here at Vaisakhi Jala Udyana Vanam on Monday. He said that the State Government has more schemes to support the cooperative societies which played a key role in the rural economy soon after the Independence. The Central government appointed Prof. A Vaidyanadhan Committee with seven members in 2004 and the committee studied the Primary Agriculture Societies which were in bad shape throughout the country, he added. The State Government signed a memorandum with National Agriculture Bank for Rural Developement (NABARD), according to the recommendations of the committee, the minister mentioned. In Visakhapatnam, out of 111 Primary Agriculture Societies, only 21 have been breaking even and rest were in losses. According to the Minister, Government has accepted the suggestions made by a special committee where-in the Givernment will bear the losses of these agriculatural scoieties. Mr. Ganta Srinivasa Rao, Minister for Ports, Mr. Balireddy SatyaRao, chairman, District Cooperative Central Bank Mr. IS Srinaresh, Commissioner for Cooperative Societies Minister for Ports and Mr. Y Vijayendra Reddy, chairman APCOB chairman and others present on the occasion.

Withdraw criminal cases: auto-drivers

Members of Andhra Pradesh Auto Drivers and Workers’ Federation (APIADW) affiliated to All India Trade Union Congress (AIUC) staged a dharna at the Collectorate demanding withdrawal of criminal cases lodged against the drivers on Monday. They started slogans against the city police and RTC depot manager of Simhachalam who caused for arrests of 15 auto drivers at Gopalapatnam junction in this month, said Mr. Vamana Murthy, state president -APIADW. He further said that autodrivers have been erking out their living by driving autorickshaws and helping people with low fares. The APSRTC officials filed a criminal complaint against a driver with the Fifth Town police station three months ago, he added. The RTC authorities began filing false cases against the drivers as the Corporation was losing revenue. The RTA officials in turn also filing cases and collecting Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000 fines and seizing auto-rickshaws in case of default, he said. Later they submitted a memorandum to the District Collector and requested him to provide smooth living sources to the auto drivers who hailed from poor sections. Members of the association also present at the dharna.

67th Birth day of Dr KS Mohan Kumar celebrated by INTUC

On the occasion of 67th Birthday of Dr K S Mohan Kumar, General Secretary, State INTUC, the members of Dist. Youth INTUC Visakhapatnam gathered at the residence of Dr KS Mohan kumar at Murali Nagar and extended their greetings today. He has been serving to the cause of welfare of Industrial workers for the last 40 years. Mr. Parupudi Ravi, General Secretary, Dist. Youth INTUC, Mr. Easwar Rao, General Secretary, Dist. INTUC, Mr. Srinivasa Rao, President, Dist. Youth INTUC, Mr. D Hanumantha Rao, Org. Secretary, Dist Youth INTUC and several members of INTUC attended the meeting.

Internal vigilance in judiciary needs to be strengthened. Respect the Justice : Justice Chalameshwar

Justice Jasti Chalameswar, Supreme Court Judge called for strengthening of internal vigilance within the judiciary on Saturday here in Visakhapatnam. While addressing the inaugural session of Law College at the Gitam University, he felt that it would be a wrong if anybody thought that mistakes would not be committed in a huge organization. One should not tag all, if some does the mistake. He further advised the law students and practicing advocates, respect the law, respect the justice and make happy the innocent victims in any case. The Apex court judge said that prior to 1990, there was a rule that law education should be taught by government colleges, after the relaxations in the rule, number of private colleges opened their doors to the students. Justice G Bhavani Prasad, High Court Judge, Justice Goda Raghuram, High Court Judge, Justice Tamada Gopalakrishna (retired) and Prof A Lakshminath, Chancellor of Damodaram Sanjivayya National Law University, Dr M V V S Murthy, president,Gitam University, Prof G Subrahmanyam, Vice chancellor, Dr. Y. Satyanarayana, Director, Law College and others werepresent.

Education fair more useful to students : GVMC Commissioner

Mr. Ramanjaneyulu, Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Commissioner congratulated the leading 98.3 FM - Radio Mirchi for conducting the Education Fair 2012 in city on Saturday. While addressing the inaugural session he said that such fairs will provide necessary information regarding the colleges which are located far away from the city limits. It would be more helpful to the students and parents in such a way that they can choose of their interest. The educational institutes from Engineering and Management disciplines presented stalls at the fair. Speaking to the media, Bhakti Rathore, Station Head Radio Mirchi (Vizag) informed that they had intimated all the Engineering and Management colleges to set up their stalls in the expo at the Ambedkar Bhavan near Rama Talkies. This fair will continue till Sunday from 10 am to 9 pm. Existing Engineering colleges at the fair are Pydah, Miracle, Sri Chaitanya, Avanthi, Al Ameer, etc., Mr. Pydah Krishna Prasad, Chairman Pydah Educational Group, Mr. Srinivas, Sri Chaitanya also present at the inaugural session.

Purandheswari promised scribes for better prospects

Ms. D. Purandheswari, Minister of State for Human Resources Development and sitting MP of Visakhapatnam has promised the journalists for better prospects on Saturday. Addressing the inaugural session at the State Convention of Journalists Association of Andhra Pradesh here at Platinum Jubilee hall, Andhra University, she said the reporters at the mandal level are the most victims than rest of the journalists and every one who is working for any media organisation has a right to enjoy all the Government provisions. But unfortunately, most of the schemes will go only to a certain stage she opined. She will see the matter that all the eligible scribes will have better prospects from the Government side i.e. bus pass, railway pass, housing sites etc. The members of the JAAP from various districts attended the convention and discussed various topics which are to be implemented in coming days. Mr. NJ Prasad, President JAAP, Mr. U. Lakshman, member, Press Council of India, Mr. Dronamraju Srinivas, Government Whip, Mr. Tynala Vijay Kumar, MLA- Visakha North, Mr. Malla Vijay Prasad, MLA- Visakha West and Mr. B. Ramanjaneyulu, Commissioner, Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC), Mr. LG Naidu, president, city wing, Mr. D. Kasinath, vice president, city wing and others present. During the session Ms. Purandheswari honoured the senior journalist Mr. Prabhakar Sharma (The Hindu) who is retiring from service soon.

Littele Angels School at SVN Colony Inaugurated

The newly constructed ‘Little Angels’ Play School building at Sri Vijay Nagar (SVN) Colony was inaugurated today, 13 Jul 12, by Mrs. Ragini Chopra, President, Navy Wives Welfare Association (Eastern Region). Mrs Reena Lanba, Vice President, NWWA (E/R), Mrs. Monica Bhuraria, Headmistress, Commodore Amit Vikram, Command Education Officer, Captain MVS Negi, Commanding Officer, INS Dega, senior members of Naval Wives’ Welfare Association and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

The School established at SVN Colony aims at providing a stimulating play environment for the children below the age of 3 years belonging to the Naval community residing in the SVN Colony, Nirman Park and Muralinagar surrounds. It is run as a community facility and is administered by Naval Wives Welfare Association. The school aims to adopt innovative measures to provide intellectual development, social and physical attributes among its wards.

State level Basketball Tourney

Stage set for the A.P.State Invitation Basketball Tournament (DRM Cup-2012 ) for Men at Railway Stadium, Visakhapatnam on Saturday. The Three day event will be inaugurated by Mr. N. Kasinath, Divisional Railway Manager, Waltair Division, East Coast Railway. The inaugural match is likely to be played between the local teams on Saturday evening. The tournament will be supervised by Mr. TSR Prasad, President, Visakhapatnam District Basketball Association & Retired Additional Superintendent of Police. The teams which are taking part in the tournament are – two teams from Hyderabad i.e YMCA Secundrabad and SBI Hyderabad, One team each from South Central Railway Vijaywada, East Godavari, Guntur and Visakhapatnam districts, ECoR Waltair, Port Trust, Andhra University Nirmala Club, Naval Dockyard, Range Police team etc. Mr. C. Madhusudhan Rao, Additional Divisional Railway Manager, will preside over the inauguration function. Mr. J. Poornachandra Rao, Commissioner of Police, Mr. K. Bhaktavatsalam, Chief Vigilance Officer of Essar Steels Limited, Mr. H.S. Bajwa, Sports Officer of ECoRSA, Mr. P. Vishnu Kumar Raju, President, Visakhaptnam District Cricket Association and Mr. K. V. Padmanabhan, Rotary Club President, will join the inaugural session. The valedictory of the tournament will be on Monday.

Jeep Jatha on create awareness among RTC employees : CITU

Mr. R. Lakshmaiah, General Secretary, The Andhra Pradesh Road Transport Service Staff and Workers Federation affiliated to Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) said that a two day Jeep Jatha in Visakhapatnam district conducting to create awareness among the APSRTC staff on certain demands. Speaking to the employees at the Dwaraka Bus Complex on Friday, while inaugurating this Jeep Jatha, he said the two day Jatha covers the depots in different session, On the day one the Jeep procession will travel through Old Post Office, Region Complex, Visakha depot, Maddilapalem depot, Simhachalam depot and Paderu. On the second day ie July 14, Narasipatnam, Anakapalle, Gajuwaka and Steel Plant. The main demands of the federation are: Management should control the private operators in prime routes, regularize the contract employees, setup of 50 bed hospital at each zone, all the financial benefits should be settled on the retirement day etc., Mr. R. Lakshmaiah, General secretary of the federation will join the Jatha programme, he mentioned. Mr. K. Ramana its vice president (Visakha region), Mr. Jyotheeswara Rao, Mr. KP Kumar, Mr. M Lashmana Rao and other members of the Federation also participated. Later the Jeep Jatha proceed to Waltair depot.

Auto-drivers rasta rokho at Rly station

The Visakhapatnam Auto-rickshaw Drivers Association (affiliated to CITU) conducted a mass protest at the Visakhapatnam Railway with a demand to withdraw the illegal cases registered against their Association members on Friday. As part of the protest they obstructed the traffic by rasta- rokho to convey their demands to the concenred officials. Some of the auto drivers told that the city traffic police are conducting raids in association with APSRTC are trying to push these three wheelers out of the city limits. It was due to an incident held at Gopalapatnam Junction on Tuesday protesting when an auto driver was arrested by the police. They demanded to release all the auto drivers unconditionally, if fail, a huge rally will be done on July 17 from Old Jail road to the Collectorate, they mentioned. This protest will not stop at this position and will go further severe, they said. This rasta rokho caused a heavy traffic jam at the railway station for more than one hour.

Review on marine products held

Ms. D. Purandheswari, Union Ministry of State for Human Resource Development held a review with the members of the district officials and the representatives of the fisherfolk on Friday. She is looking at a comprehensive development scheme for increasing the export potentiality of the marine products. The Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority (VUDA) conducted a study on 297 km long coast covering Visakha and East Godavari districts with existing social conditions. VUDA officials also conducted research on existence of fishing means through mechanized boats, vessels and country made boats along North Coastal Andhra, where estimated 1.2 lakh families are seeking out their livelihood on sea directly and indirectly, she added. A reputed national agency would be entrusted with the job of surveying the coast following complaints of large scale pollution. It would be decided then whether to close the industries or supply them STPs, Praveen Kumar said. Mr. Lav Agarwal, District Collector, Mr. K. Praveen Kumar, Joint Collector and other officials present.

Tele Doctors Health Cards launched

Dr. P. Sreemannarayana, Chief Medical Officer, the New Central Hospital, has launched Tele Doctors Express Medical Cards here on Friday. Revealing the details of the card he said, it has a secret code inside the scratch area which can be used while calling for Tele Doctors for medical consultation or advice. Electronic prescriptions or advice shall be sent through SMS. This will facilitate to have consultation of specialist doctors from anywhere over phone and to know the need for hospitalisation or surgery. The discussion or medical consultation with the Tele Doctors would be totally private and secure and the consumers would discuss any condition with ease. The medical cards are available in all major medical stores and in designated areas. It can be used twice, validity is only six months and the cost of the card is only Rs. 160, he mentioned. This whole team will be guided by Messrs Wiseman’s Digitech Private Limited, USA. Dr. Parvathi, Dr. PV Prasanth also present at the conference.

Bangladesh Navy Chief Visits ENC

Vice Admiral Zahir Uddin Ahmed, Chief of Naval Staff, Bangladesh Navy, accompanied by his wife Begum Shabnam Ahmed and a four member delegation arrived Visakhapatnam today, 12 Jul 12, on a two day visit to the Eastern Naval Command. On arrival, the Admiral held discussions with Vice Admiral Anil Chopra, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command and was briefed on the role and function of the Eastern Naval Command. Later, the Admiral visited a few frontline ships and submarines of the Command.

Begum Shabnam Ahmed interacted with the Committee Members and ladies of the Navy Wives Welfare Association (Eastern Region) and visited the ‘Little Angels’ School at Dolphin Hill. Vice Admiral and Mrs. Ahmed are scheduled to depart Visakhapatnam on Friday, 13 Jul 12.

Duronto on track atlast

The most awaited train Duronto Express non stop train from Visakhapatnam to Secunderabad was finally on track on Thursday night by 10.30 pm from Visakhapatnam Railway station. It is a Tri-weekly super fast train leaving Visakhapatnam on every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday at 10.30 pm and reaching Secunderabad at 8 am the next day. The train will have nine AC 3 tier coaches, three AC 2 tier coaches and one first AC coach besides two motorcars- cum-guard coaches. In the return journey, the train No. 22204 Secunderabad- Visakhapatnam will leave Secunderabad every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 8.30 pm with effect from July 14 and reach Visakhapatnam at 6.05 am the next day. The Visakhapatnam Railway Station was colourful on Thursday night during the first whistle of this new express train.

NCPCR orders to implement Education Act

The Natioanl Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) headed by Justice B. Subhashan Reddy ordered the Andhra Pradesh State Government to implement the Right to Education Act during a public hearing session on Thursday in Visakhapatnam. Justice Reddy questioned concerned government authorities against 16 complaints from various villages stating that about 800 villages doesn't have proper buildings, toilets, drinking water, transportation for schools in the district. Responding to the questions, Ms. Usharani, Director, Rajiv Vidya Mission (Andhra Pradesh) promised the commission that all the problems will be rectified by the end of this month. He announced that most of the complaints pertained to lack of adequate schools as per the RTE Act, shortage of teachers and lack of basic infrastructure like drinking water and toilets in schools. Governments should provide free and compulsory education to children under the age group of 6 to 14 years, NCPCR member Justice B Subhashan Reddy said. Ms. Deepa Dixit, jury member advised the petitioners to comply again, if the problems not been solved August 1. Ms. Deepa Dixit visited some villages in the tribal-dominated areas of Visakhaptnam district to examine the implementation of the landmark Act on Wednesday.
Most of the complaints registered from G. Madugula, Araku Valley, Chintapalli, Dumbriguda mandals. The hearing conducted for Visakhapatnam, Srikakulam, East Godavari, Nellore and Kurnool districts. Mr. Henri Tipagne, member NCPCR jury, Ms. K. Bhanumathi, state committee member, Mr. Y. Rajendra Prasad, state committee member, Mr. Lav Agarwal, District Collector, Mr. Siva Shankar, Director School Education, Mr. Srikanth Prabhakar, Project Officer- ITDA, Mr. Venkateswara Rao, Rajiv Vidya Mission Project Officer and other Government officials present at the public hearing session.

Tech Reporter launched

Technology always been exhibiting impact on commonman, opined Prof. DVR Murthy, HoD, Journalism, Andhra University. Speaking at the inauguaral session on Thursday, he said that there is no such digital magazine so far in the country, Dr. V. Sudhakar, editor has three decades of technical experience in various scientific institutions, all such experiences would be presented in this magazine regularly. Responding to various querries, Dr. Sudhakar said, that the information which has relavant scientific reason only be presented in the digital magazine. It is the brain child and will cover all aspects on earth ie., Human life, Psychology, Medicine, Electronics, Agriculture, Aeronautics, Tourism, Equipment, Communication, IT, Zoology, Geology, Education, Scientific facts, sports, physics, chemistry, engineering, etc., along with their latest advancements and an in depth study, analysis, changes, past, present and future developments of each of these subjects. The magazine is at the finger tips of every individual globally, not subjected to specific region or country, he added. He invited querries related to any subject will be published with scietific reasons in it. Scientists and journalists from various organisations were present.

JAAP state convention on July 14

The state convention of Journalists Association of Andhra Pradesh (JAAP) would be held on July 14 at Platinum Jubilee hall, Andhra University in Visakhapatnam, announced Mr. LG Naidu, president city wing. Speaking to newsmen on Thursday, he said that during the sessions, most of the unsolved problems will be discussed. The representatives of various units in the State also join the session, he added. Mr. NJ Prasad, President JAAP, Mr. U. Lakshman, member, Press Council of India and other big wigs in the media associations will address the gathering. The committee invited Ms. D. Purandheswari, Union Minister of State for Human Resources Development, Mr. Ganta Srinivas, Minister for Ports, Mr. Dronamraju Srinivas, Government Whip, Mr. B. Ramanjaneyulu, Commissioner, Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) to the seminar, he mentioned. Mr. D. Kasinath, vice president, JAAP city wing and other members also present at the conference.

Rotary Installation Ceremony

Rotary Club Visakhapatnam Central’s installation ceremony was held today to install the new office bearers for the year 2012-13. Rtn. Sushil Mulchandani, Dy. COO of VCTPL was elected as President and Rtn Laxman DV, Khursheed Aarif, Yogesh Bhansali as Secretary, Jt. Secretary and Treasurer respectively. Past Dist Governor Rtn Raj Gopal Reddy installed the office bearers. On this day, the youth wing of Rotary, Rotaract Club of GITAM Institute of Management was also inducted.

Sri.Ajeya Kellam IAS graced the occasion as the chief guest and congratulated the new office bearers. He appreciated the community services undertaken by Rotary Club Visakhapatnam Central and was pleased with youth being involved in various social activities. In his brief address he exhorted Rotary to introduce the ethical behavior and Indian culture to the students. Rtn Sushil Mulchandani in his maiden address on taking over as the President explained that the Rotary International’s area of focus in coming years would be in the field of Peace and Conflict prevention/resolution , Basic Education and literacy, Economic and Community development, Water and Sanitation, Maternal and Child health, Disease prevention and treatment.

Rally on World Population Day

The students of various degree and nursing colleges in the city took out a huge rally on Wednesday to mark the World Population Day. The rally was flagged off by Mr MV Reddy, CEO- Zilla Parishad at the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC), he urged the intellectuals and voluntary organisations to enlighten the society about the ill-effects of population growth. Nursing students, NCC, NSS displayed placards bearing the slogans on the problems of increasing population. The rally carried to Ambedkar Assembly hall near Siripuram where the awareness held on happy family with maximum two children. The rally passes through Asilmetta junction, VIP road and Siripuram Junction. Dr.Ramesh, Dr. Sarojini, Dr. Savithri and others were present.

Brinda Karat fires on UPA for not bringing Food Bill

Mr. Brinda Karat, the Politburo member of Communist Party of India (CPI-M) demanded the Government to provide better living sources for Primitive Tribal Groups (PTGs) in the Visakha agency. The dynamic lady visited number of villages around Paderu on Tuesday, she alleged that both the Central and State governments neglected all the spheres of the developmental activities. The PTGs of Kondh, Korji and Gadaba have a population of 1.5 lakh spread across 1100 villages in the agency area with a total population of 6 lakh tribal people. They are deprived of safe drinking water, health facilities, housing and schools. She demanded the Government to provide 10 acres of land to each tribe for which they are eligible. The complete right on the forest resources should be left with these sections instead of with the Government, she added. Later she visited various hostels and schools run for the weeker sections and intereacted with the inmates. After that she had participated in the mass protest at the ITDA office in Paderu, later on submitted a memorandum to the Project Officer , stating that the CPM will not be silent and the topics will be taken to the Parliament, if unsolved soon. Former MPs Dr. Babu Rao, Mr. Madhu, Mr. Ch. Narasinga Rao, secretary District CPM and other activists joined her.

FAPI demands to replace CM, PCC chief

Mr. BV Rama Rao. president- Federation of Andhra Pradesh Industries (FAPI) met Ms. Sonia Gandhi, president AICC in New Delhi on July 3 and submitted a memorandum about the state of party affairs in Andhra Pradesh. The details of the conversation was revealed at a press conference on Wednesday, he had apprised Ms Sonia how the party leaders and ministers were functioning adding that he had suggested to replace two key role persons Kiran Kumar Reddy, chief minister and Mr. Botcha Satyanarayana, PCC chief, as they were concentrating on safeguarding their chairs leaving all people’s problems to the air. He demands the State Government to release the subsidy on purchasing generators, diesel and loans to the industries to suvive at some extent. About 60 per cent of the industries in the state are in a stage to shut their doors for ever due to non supply of sufficient electric power. Lakhs of employees are ready to jobless, if the situation continue soon, he added. Representatives of various industries Mr. Srinivasa Rao, Mr. Ram and Mr. Prasad were also present.

Handover of JNNURM houses : Raviraju

Mr. GV Ravi Raju, former corporator, 13th ward in the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation demands to handed over the JNNURM houses to benificiaries in his ward, which were completed six months ago. Speaking to media on Wednesday, about 96 pakka houses were allotted to the residents of Relli veedhi and Rajendranagar in 2007, if the GVMC Commissioner Mr. B. Ramanjaneyulu and Mr. Tynala Vijay Kumar, MLA- Visakha North failed to distribute these houses to the allottees, he would be staging a hunger strike at the same place, he mentioned. He further said that there were about hundred families living in small huts and are happy for this allotment, but the intentional delay by the MLA, the distribution was not fulfilled in time, the YSR Congress leader pointed out. The allotees paid their share Rs. 20,300 each family and the project was reportedly completed in December 2011, he informed.

Duranto Express on track from tomorrow

Long awaited Duranto express runs between Visakhapatnam-Secunderabad Tri-weekly Express would be launched from July 12, said a release issued by Senior Divisional Commercial Officer (DCM) here on Tuesday. The train No. 22203 Visakhapatnam-Secunderabad will leave Visakhapatnam on every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday at 10.30 pm and reach Secunderabad at 8 am the next day. In the return journey, the train No. 22204 Secunderabad- Visakhapatnam will leave Secunderabad every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 8.30 pm with effect from July 14 and reach Visakhapatnam at 6.05 am the next day. The train will have nine AC 3 tier coaches, three AC 2 tier coaches and one first AC coach besides two motorcars- cum-guard coaches.

Jeep Jatha on RTC employees issues : CITU

The Andhra Pradesh Road Transport Service Staff and Workers Federation afficialted to Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) announced that there would be two day Jeep Jatha in the district to create awareness among the staff on certain demands, announced Mr. K. Ramana its vice president (Visakha region). Speaking to newsmen on Tuesday, he said that the Jatha begins at Waltair Depot on July 13 at 5 am, each session will be held for two hours. On the day one the Jeep procession will go through Old Post Office, Region Complex, Visakha depot, Maddilapalem depot, Simhachalam depot, Paderu. On the second day ie July 14, it will cover Narasipatnam, Anakapalle, Gajuwaka and Steel Plant. The main demands of the federation are: management should control the private operators in prime routes, regularize the contract employees, setup of 50 bed hospital at each zone, all the financial benefits be settled on the retirement day etc. Mr. R. Lakshmaiah, General secretary of the federation will join the Jatha programme, he mentioned. Mr. Jyotheeswara Rao, Mr. KP Kumar and Mr. M Lashmana Rao participated at conference.

Brinda demand for better sources for PTG

Mr. Brinda Karat, the Politburo member of Communist Party of India (CPI-M) demanded the Government to provide better living sources for Primitive Tribal Groups (PTGs) in the Visakha agency. The dynamic lady visited number of villages around Paderu on Tuesday, she alleged that both the Central and State governments neglected all the spheres of the developmental activities. The PTGs of Kondh, Korji and Gadaba have a population of 1.5 lakh spread across 1100 villages in the agency area with a total population of 6 lakh tribal people. They are deprived of safe drinking water, health facilities, housing and schools. She demanded the Government to provide 10 acres of land to each tribe for which they are eligible. The complete right on the forest resources should be left with these sections instead of with the Government, she added. Later she visited various hostels and schools run for the weeker sections and intereacted with the inmates. After that she had participated in the mass protest at the ITDA office in Paderu, later on submitted a memorandum to the Project Officer , stating that the CPM will not be silent and the topics will be taken to the Parliament, if unsolved soon. Former MPs Dr. Babu Rao, Mr. Madhu, Mr. Ch. Narasinga Rao, secretary District CPM and other activists joined her.

Advocates to boycott court on July11, 12

Mr. BV Ramanajaneya Rao, vice-president, All India Lawyers' Association (Andhra Pradesh) announced that the advocates in all the courts will boycott their duties at the court on July 11 and 12 on Tuesday. Speaking to media persons at a conference, he told that in response to the demands of the Bar Council of India, all the advocates will take part in the protest throughout the nation. It is in support to the demands raised for withdrawal of Higher Education and Research Bill 2011, National Accreditation Regulatory Authority for Higher Education Institutions Bill 2010, The Foreign Educational Institutions (Regulatory of entry and operations) Bill 2010, Legal Practitioners Bill 2010. These bills are already in the house and are ready to become an Act, if it so happens, the education system in the country will go down and without any formal system, he added. The representatives from all the bar associations in the country will join the mass dharna at the Parliament on the day of monsoon sessions. There is no need of an Act to control Higher education in the country, and all the respect courses are directly supervised by experts in those subjects, he mentioned.

AU V-C praises Engg College for top rank

Prof. George Victor, Inchage Vice Chancellor, Andhra University, praised the efforts put by the AU Engineering College for getting the Best Government Engineering College by ABP Television News Channel (former Star News) on Monday. Addressing the Engineering teaching and non teaching at a welcome function organised by Prof. GSN Raju, Principal AU Engineering College, he said that the credit goes to each and every member in the campus. He advised the crew to concentrate on more new innovative projects and guide the scholars to invent more things in technical aspect.Speaking on the occasion Prof. GSN Raju, Principal Andhra University College of Engineering said that that this “The Best Govt. Engineering College” by ABP TV News Channel for the year 2012 and this is the second consecutive year for the award on the basis of leadership qualities, development market, industry interface, curriculum factors and innovative techniques etc., 40 to 50 parameters. This award was received on June 30 at a grand celebrations in Mumbai, he mentioned. The committee chaired by Nasscom chairman. He further explained to the new Incharge V-C regarding the 5 year integrated course in the college is approved by All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). All the heads of the department were present.

CPM opposes bauxite mining
Governor acts as postman. . : Brinda Karat

Ms. Brinda Karat, member of Rajya sabha and politburo member of Communist Party of India (Marxist) strongly opposed the new mining policy and permission for the bauxite in the Visakhapatnam district. Addressing a public session at Jerrala village of GK Veedhi Mandal on Monday, she told the hamlets that the CPM will not leave this issue at this stage and the issue will be raised in the house. She reached vizag to take part various agitations in the district organised by the district body. She would be participating in the ITDA - muttadi (blockade) in Paderu on Tuesday and the mass dharna at the district collectorate on July 11. She further said that the proposed new mining policy will seize the provisions and rights given by the constitution to the tribes. She frays the activity of Mr. ESL Narasimhan, Governor of this state, who completely quiet in this serious issue and acted as a postman.She said the new mining policy would not allow the affected people for consultation for giving approval for mining activities in the agency and eliminate the hitherto Grama Sabha (Village committee meeting) for approval. CPM party district senior activists Dr. Babu Rao, former MP, Mr. Ch. Narasinga Rao, and others were also joined her.

Essay completion held for degree students

The Lions Club of Visakhapatnam- Dwarakanagar, in association with Department of Economics- Andhra University, conducted essay writing and elocution competitions for degree students on Monday. Speaking on the occasion Mr. PV Seetha Rama Raju, presidnet Lions Club- VSP said that on the occasion World Population Day (July 11), the essay and elocution tests were organised and the prizes will be distributed to the winners on July 11 at a fuction. The topics in the tests are Problems of Increasing World population, about 150 entries were received and the tests were conducted in two sessions, he added. Representatives from BVK Degree College, Gayatri Degree College, Aditya Degree College, Visakha Women's College and others were participated. Members of Population Research Centre- Andhra University, Inner Wheel club - Visakhapatnam and Rotary Club of Visakhapatnam also present.

VISTEEL MAHILA SAMITI (VMS) PAYS HOMAGE TO DEPARTED SOULS

Visteel Mahila Samiti the women’s organization of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant has organized a Condolence meeting for the 19 persons who expired in the recent incident at VSP. Smt Lata Choudhary, President, VMS along with Smt Sushma Chauhan, Smt Preeti Roy & Smt N Sarada, Vice Presidents, VMS and other members paid homage to the departed souls at MP Hall, Ukkunagaram today.

Candles are lighted and floral tributes are paid by Smt Lata Choudhary and others. Members of VMS recited verses from Bible, Gurugrand Sahib and Bhagvad Geetha. Bhajans of all religions are also rendered.

Later in memory of the departed souls, VMS President and other members planted 19 saplings in Training & Development Centre premises.

Youth Wing

This programme was inaugurated by sri sg chalam, state president, sri sathya sai seva organizations, Andhra Pradesh. Sri KV Ramana Reddy, state youth coordinator, Sri R.Lakshmana Rao, State coordinator (Services), sri MVR Seshasai, district President, Hyderabad, several senior office bearers of sri sathya sai seva organizations participated in the inaugural programme.

The tree plantation programme will be completed by 15tn August, 2012 by which time atleast 75,000-1,00,000 trees(saplings) will be planted.

Inter-Media carroms tourney

Mr. SM Sharief of Media Vision won the first place, Mr. V Ravindra of AIR second place. Mr. A Manoharan of an English daily secured the third place in carroms single tourney at the on going Intermedia Sports festival on Saturday. Mr. Velagapudi Ramakrishna Babu, MLA - Visakha East of Telugu Desam party inauguarated the Inter-Media Carroms Competition as part of month-long sports festival of Vizag Journalist Forum (VJF) Press Club and assured to extend sufficient support to the scribes. He said sports events would give relief to scribes who were always busy with their routine tensions. Among others, Mr. G Sreenu Babu, president, Mr. S Durga Rao, secretary, vice-presidents Mr. R Nagaraj Patnaik and Mr. Dadi Ravikumar and Visja secretary Mr. N Nageswara Rao participated.

Udyoga Margam launched

Mr. Mattapalli Chalamaiah, industrialist has launched the first issue of Udyoga Margam monthly brought out by Mr. Y Damodar Gupta on Saturday at a function held in the city. He purchased the first issue for Rs 999 on the occasion. He asked the editor of the new monthly to furnish full information that is useful to educated unemployees and to extend marketing facility to other parts too. Mr. G Sreenu Babu, president, VJF Press Club, Mr. S Durga Rao, secretary and others congratulated him for bringing out a good piece. They advised him that while assuring of help, hoped that the new magazine would help educated unemployees a lot and asked him to circulate the edition to all libraries to benefit more number of people. Later, the Press Club also purchased about 70 copies to display in its library.

Students Organisation calls bandh on 17

The Student organisations including SFI, AISF and other associations. in co-ordination with Left parties have called for a statewide bandh of educational institutions on July 17, announced Mr. Jagan, secretary SFI. Speaking to newsmen on Saturday, he said that this bandh called against the failure of the supply of textbooks and other common facilities at all the schools. As per the requirement about 5.13 lakh books should be printed this year, but the Government had been supplied only 2.5 lakh books. He also demanded that the mid-day meal scheme be restructured and food preparations be decentralised as the food was getting stale with centralised kitchen concept. The SFI will also hold mass protests on July 10 and 11 to put pressure on the government, he said.
Some of the schools were collecting thousands of rupees in the name of building development fund and the government had failed to restrict them. He further demanded that the Government has to take the action against schools which did not follow any norms.

NABARD three decades of service Maa Thota for Vizagites

Maa Thota, a project specially designed for the development of agriculture and benefit to the interested farmers receiving good response in Vizag district, announced Mr. KVSSLV Prasada Rao, Assistant General Manager, National Agriculture Bank for Rural Development. Addressing the press on Saturday at the VJF Press club, he said that the bank had successfully completed three decades of service since 1982 and more projects were designed for creating awareness among the needy session in association with the Non Governing bodies. The Vizag division is extending the services to the farmers in this region through Maa Thota, SRI, in which the tribal farmers will be given health treatments too. NABARD was set up as a Development Bank to promote sustainable and equitable agriculture and rural prosperity through effective credit support, related services, institution development and other innovative initiatives, he added. The loan facilities are available through panel NGOs and through State Governing bodies. Dr. Prabhakar, founder president Green Vision, Mr. P. Viswanath and others present.

Telugu Yuvatha held protest at flyover

Mr. L. Krishna, president Telugu Yuvatha city wing staged a mass dharna with 200 activists at the Asilmetta flyover demanding to allot housing sites to the below poverty line people in the City on Saturday. Addressing the gathering he said that it is the responsibility of the State Government to provide a minimum of 60 sq yards to poorest in the city, which was due for a long time. He highlighted the failures of local body and peoples' representatives including MP Purandheswari, Ministers Mr. Ganta Srinivasa Rao, Mr. P. Balaraju, and other five MLAs etc. He lamented the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) for providing lands worth crores of rupees to Minister Ganta and other ruling party activists. Officials are very much interested in evicting the slums and sending them out of the city, but never thought about the life style of the victims. The city has plentiful unused land on the Beach road, Allipuram, Resapuvanipalem, Maddilapalem, Vepagunta, Gopalapatnam, China gadili, Chinawaltair and Pendurty which can be distributed to the poor, he mentioned. The protest held till evening and the party activists raised slogans against the ruling Congress party to attract the public attention. Mr. Narasimha Naidu, Telugu Yuvatha city secretary, and vice presidents Satyanand, Ganesh and others present.

CBI questioned former VC Vishnu

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) questioned Mr. VN Vishnu, former vice chairman- Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority here on Friday at the CBI office in MVP Colony. He was questioned by CBI in connection with the allotment of VUDA land to private parties. Mr. Vishnu, he is the District Collector of Guntur now. During his tenure, he allegedly allotted 85 cents of land to private persons in MVP Colony in 2009. The Andhra Pradesh State High Court asked the CBI to conduct a probe in this regard, after complaints were lodged against him on June 23. During the seven hour enquiry, Mr. Vishnu refused to divulge the details for most of the questions asked by the CBI, according to sources. The land that was allotted (under Survey No. 5/P of MVP VUDA layout, Peda Waltair) was reserved for the construction of a community centre as per the original approved layout. He reached the CBI Office, MVP colony in a government vehicle and refused to speak to newsmen..

Co-op bank new branch opened

Mr. Dronamraju Srinivas, Government Whip inaugurated the new branch of The Kanakalamalakshmi Cooperative Bank at MVP Colony on Friday. Speaking on the occasion he anticipated that this branch will provide better services to its customers. He congratulated the bank crew on the occasion. Mr. Velgapudi Ramakrishna, MLA- Visakha East praised the achievement of the bank staff and advised the branch officials to provide good service. Mr. Chairman, said, this is the eight branch and the turnover of the bank is Rs. 220 crore and the bank could grab good reputation in the market so far. The ATM services for this branch will begin within three months duration. This will cover MVP Colony, Pithapuram Colony, Maddilapalem, Isukathota, Venkojipalem, he added. Mr. CSN Raju, Chairman, Kalabharati, Mr. Rambabu, secretary, Kalabharati and other industrialists were present at the inaugural session.

One dead, 30 injured in an accident

One dead and 30 contract employees were severely injured when a transport van slipped into a side canal near Dorathota on Friday. According to the sources, a transport vehicle belongs to Sprint Exports Pvt Limited (Hatcheries), Bheemili picked up 40 contract employees and moving towards Tagarapuvalasa, the accident took place when this van driver trying to overtake an auto and hit an electrical pole. Mr. Appala Raju who have died while shifting to hospital. The severely injured persons have been hospiltalised at the King George Hospital and NRI. Ms. Devudamma, Ms. Ganga, Ms. Gouri, Mr. Rambabu, Mr. Kalidasu, Ms. Yellayamma were among the injured persons. The DCP (Traffic) Mr. Suresh Babu inspected the spot, the Bhimili police registered the case and investigating it.

Scribes are equally talented as sportstars : DIG Swati

Ms. Swati Lakra, DIG (Visakha Range) advised the city journalists to prove themselves as sports persons during the inaugural session of CMR Inter media sports events on Thursday. The session was held at Rajiv Gandhi Port Indoor Stadium, Ms. Swati inaugurated the session with shuttle and chess along with Mr. M. Venkata Ramana of CMR. She advised the scribes to practice regularly apart from the regular duties. Sports will provide relief from the stress especially for the field employees. She congratulated the Vizag Journalists Forum (VJF) for being the best Journalist forum in the State and also for conducting various social services. Mr. M.V Ramana, chief of CMR Shopping mall promised the VJF to extend the support, if the VJF Press Club plans for the state level Media sports events. Mr. Gantla Srinubabu, President, VJF, Mr. S. Durga Rao, secretary and other members also present at the inaugural session.

Tribal Ministers should quit : CPI demands

Mr. JV Satyanarayana Murthy, District Secretary, Communist Party of India (CPI) demanded for resignation of the tribal ministers Mr. Balaraju in the state and Mr. Kishore Chandra Deo at the centre for failure of obstructing the bauxite mining in the agency. Speaking to newsmen on Thursday, he said that even after number of protests the Andhra Pradesh Mining Development Corporation (APMDC) has setup an camp office at Chintapalli to look after the mining activities. He further demanded that the innocent tribal youth who are under police custody should be released immediately. The APMDC has opened an office at Chintapalli and recruited 196 tribal youths assuring them better job opportunities to promote mining activities. From the first week of August the CPI would be organising various protests in the agency, Mr. Narayana state secretary will take part in it.
To educate the Agency people about bauxite mining, they would distribute one lakh pamphlets in August and lay siege to ITDA in the second week.

CM should quit- demands Telugu Mahila

Mr. Kiran Kumar Reddy, Chief Minister should quit, despite failure in all aspects, demanded Ms. Shobha Hymavathi, President Telugu Mahila. Speaking at the press conference on Thursday, she said, the ruling party headed by Mr. Kiran Kumar Reddy failed to fulfil the needs of the poor and women in the state, failed to control the prices of commodities, petrol, diesel and LPG as well. The people in the state are still struggling with power-cuts even in the early rainy season. The Government has no plans in generating power through solar,wind etc., Activists of the ruling party are busy in trails to get the nominated posts, whereas the MLAs, and MPs are busy in seeking for the ministries. The ruling Congress never bothered about the development of the state and are ruling selfishly, she added. Ms. Gudivada Nagamani, Vice President, State Telugu Mahila, Ms. A. Vani, District President, Telugu Mahila, Ms. Nargis, city president and others present at the conference.

Training on poem recitation, Garikipati to address children on Aug 18

The Paravastu Padya Peetham would be organising a training session on the poem recitation for children of various age groups, announced Mr. Paravasthu Phani Sayana Suri, great grandson of noted Telugu poet Chinnaya Suri. Addressing the press conference on Friday, he said that the training will be done in two categories - upto Class VI will categorised as juniors, and Class VII to Intermediate considered as Seniors - on every Sunday which begins on July 8. Apart from the above two categories, the interested persons of any age will be trained as a separate category. During the classes, the children will be taught how to read a poem. He further stated that Telugu language has its own uniqueness and familiar for Avadhanam and Padya natakam. Maha Sahasravadhani Mr. Garikipati Narasimha Rao will deliver an open discourse on Telugu Padya Vaibhavam on August 18, as part of the regular activities of the Paravasthu Padya Peetham, he added. Mr. Kondepudi Prasad of Prasanna Bharati, weekly, Mr. Maa Sharma, Regional Coordinator, HMTV, Mr. Bagamgir Sai, founder president Ranga Sai Nataka Academy promised to extend their support to this training session.

GVMC

Members of Women Federation donated Sixty Thousand Rupees to GVMC Commissioner for "Vidya Sri" fund on 06-July-2012

AIYF demands for better medical services

The activists of All India Youth Federation (AIYF) staged mass protests at the District Medical Health Office on Friday, with a demand to provide common amenities at all the health centres throughout the State. Staging dharna at the DMHO, the activists pointed out that most of the health centres in the agency could not have even one health assistant and a pill. Mr. M. Srinivas, Vice President of All India Student Federation (AISF) said that this programme was planned in protest against the Government officials who were not providing proper medical facilities to the public in Government hospitals and instead were selling those services to corporate hospitals. He alleged that the ruling Congress Party in the State was turning these medical facilities into a business. Due to the lack of proper facilities in local Government hospitals public were forced to go to private hospitals. He added that the Government was not bothered about the condition of the people who were not financially capable to get treated in these corporate hospitals. Ruling party MLAs aimed at the ministry and the activists towards the nominated posts, but nobody cares about the commonman.

Brinda Karat to Visit on July 9

Ms. Brinda Karat, Polit Bureau member - Communist Party of India (Marxist) and Rajya Sabha member will reach Visakhapatnam on July 9 to participate in the three day protest proposed by district CPM, said Mr. Ch. Narasinga Rao, its district secretary. Speaking at the press conference on Wednesday, he said that the three day protest will be held on various issues, on July 9, the public meeting at the Jarrala village in GK Veedhi Mandal against the bauxite mining, on the next day, the protest at Paderu to block the ITDA office on Primitive Group Tribes. A maha dharna proposed at the Visakhapatnam Collectorate on July 11, he added. The MP will address the gathering at the public meeting on various issues in the state and centre as well. Mr. Lokanadham, member CPM district committee also present.

Demand to rename Visakha on Alluri

The activists of YSR Congress Party, Communist Party of India (CPI) staged dharna at the Alluri Seetarama Raju statue, Seethammadhara with a demand to rename the Visakha district on Alluri. On the occasion the 115th birth anniversary of Alluri Seetharama Raju, the above said activists garlanded the statue and paid rich tributes. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. GV Ravi Raju, former Corporator, Incharge Srikakulam YSR Congress Party pointed out the negligence of the ruling Congress both at the Centre and State, the Visakhapatnam district could not have the name on Alluri, which was long standing demand. The departed great freedom fighter created sensation during the freedom struggle and created awareness among the tribes in Manyam (remote agency covered both in Visakhapatnam and East Godavari districts), he added. Mr. JV Satyanarayana Murthy, District Secretary, CPI frays the ruling politicians, stating that nobody is taking the response in this regard, even after number of protests. It is the responsibility of the ruling party to develop the localities like KD Peta where the Manyam veerudu had last breath at historical place. Members of the Kshatriya Association, Bharatiya Janata Party also present.

ECoRSU stage dharna Dharna Against NPS

The East Coast Railway Shramik Union staged a mass dharna at the office on Wednesday to protest against the New Pension Scheme (NPS). Addressing the protesting camp, Mr. Ch. Gandhi its General Secretary said, every employee in this organisation should feel proud for working in one of the Biggest Transporting Organisations in Asia, ie Indian Railways. To safeguard the regular employees the pension scheme was implemented after a number of protests over two decades, he added. Meanwhile the Union Government is implementing the NPS which is affecting the working class at large. The present Government functioning under the directives of world Bank and Corporate Sector slowly resorting to privatisation curbing all the legitimate rights of the employees. In this process the Government introduced New Pension Scheme for the staff which are appointed from 01-01-2004 onwards. Ms. D. Shaleel and other representatives of ECoRSU are participated at the protest camp.

GVMC schools to be upgraded

Mr. B. Ramanjaneyulu, Commissioner, Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) informed that the schools are being run by GVMC would be upgraded. Addressing the press conference on Tuesday, after returning from Singapore said, that schools will be provided with basic infrastructure facilities in phases, said Commissioner B Ramanjaneyulu. He held a meeting with the officials of the Education Department and headmasters and told them that along with the improvement of the facilities the standard of teaching should also be enhanced so that the students performed well in the SSC examination. Minimum amenities like ceiling fans, benches, uniforms must be provided at all the schools, he mentioned at the meeting. A three member committee has been formed to appoint 17 teachers for 17 schools to teach spoken English to the students. The selection of English teachers must be impartial and efficient, he added. Mr. B. Jayaram Reddy, Chief Engineer, Mr. Purnachandra Rao, Additional Commissioner and other officials were present.

Guru Purnima held

Guru Purnima was celebrated on a grand scale at various Shirdi Sai temples in the city on Tuesday. Large number of devotees attended at the Shirdi Sai temple, Seethammadhara, East Point Colony, Sri Kantha Gurudatta Sai temple - Seethammapeta. The special rituals began with Suprabhatam, Harati, Abhishekams and Archanas. Later in the afternoon the special Annabhishekam was performed at the Shirdi Sai Temple - Seethammadhara, where the devotees have witnessed. Special health camps, blood donation camps are also done at the temple premises. Chanting of Vedas by the priests also offered as part of their regular activities and Phalarchana was performed with 6,000 different fruits to Sainath. Later, Annaprasadam was distributed to all the devotees. Mr. GV Ravi Raju, former corporator and Srikakulam in-charge, YSR Congress Party, Mr. KVSR Raju, Ms. Vijaylakshmi visited the temple.

Natl SC Commission member condemns Lakhmipet incident

Ms. Latha Priya Kumar, Member- National Commission on Scheduled Castes’ Welfare condemned the incident happened at Lakshmipeta, where five dalits were brutally killed by locals. She was in the city on Tuesday to enquire about the incident. She visited the Seven Hills Hospital where the injured persons in the incident were undergoing treatment. She felt extremely sorry for the atrocities that happened in Lakshmipet Village. She said after visiting the injured and enquiring about the episode besides the reasons behind the killings. She denied to comment on the action, unless she would see the post martem report and spot where the incident took place. She is keen about the case and planning to take the statements from the entire villagers. She further said that, there would be number of failures including district administration. She advised the society, do not make the incident politicised.

AIDWA, DYFI activists lay siege to GVMC

Mr. Ch. Narsinga Rao, district secretary, Communist Party of India (Marxist)- CPIM strongly opposed the step-motherly treatment towards Visakhapatnam by the Government. Addressing the mass gathering at the Greater Visakapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) on Tuesday during mass dharna held by the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), AIDWA and DYFI in protest against the new taxation on Vizagites, he said that the World Bank made Visakhapatnam as a laboratory to implement dirty and failed policies in other locations. The Corporation was giving high subsidies to the rich and powerful companies and putting the burden on the common man. He said Gangavaram Port was given a subsidy of Rs 30 crore and Hinduja National Power Project Rs 130 crore while Rs 180 crore additional burden was put on the poor and middle class. Ms Hemalatha said the slum-dwellers played an important role in the society in development of the urban segments. She demanded that the Corporation develop the slums and not eradicate them. Ms. B Padma, City president,AIDWA, Ms. Botta Eswaramma, Former GVMC Council floor leader of CPI(M) and number of party activists also present. The police have controlled the situation before the agitators tried to seige the GVMC.

Pensioners to stage dharna

The retired employees of various Central Government and State Government Departments are going to stage a mass protest at the Regional Provident Fund Office on July 4, announced Mr. B. Suryanarayana, President, All Pensioners And Retired Employees Association. Speaking to the newsmen on Tuesday at Public Library, Dwarakanagar, he said that as the prices of commodities, petrol, diesel, LPG are increased drastically, the retired persons were not in a stage to meet their daily life expenses with their current pensions. So the association had initiated to go on protest. The minimum pension should be Rs. 5,000 as per the GO MS number 95, he added. He invited all the retired persons from various Government organisations come forward and take part in it. Mr. PVS Sasthry, Secretary, Mr. Koteswara Rao - Treasurer, Mr. Narasimham, Mr. Swatantra Kumar, Mr. Satyanarayana also present.

Giri Pradakshina held in Simhachalam

Devotees of Sri Varaha Lakshmi Nrusimha Swamy of Simhachalam went on 35 kilometer walk around the Simhagiri hills on Monday. This divine journey familiar as Giri Pradakshina travels through the city. Celebrations were began at the Toli Pavancha at Simhachalam down the hills in the evening. Temple priests performed special rituals to the dieties over there. This walk covered Adavivaram, Mudasarlova, Hanumanthawaka, Venkojipalem, Sethammadhara, Madhavadhara, NAD Junction, Gopalapatnam and finally to Simhachalam. Devotees had troubled with no lighting facility available till Mudasarlova which comes under forest area. Children and teenagers in large number had participated in this journey. After completion of the journey they visited the temple and had darshan of Lord Narasimha. The voluntary organisations distributed water and food packets at various locations in the city.

Home guards training session begins

Mr. B. Purnachandra Rao, inaugurated a 35 day training camp for home guards at the Police parade grounds on Monday. He advised the participants to serve the society with dedication. Among the 187 home guards there are 15 women joined the training camp. Interestingly there are three MBA qualified candidates and other professionals in the group. During the trianing camp, these participants will be taught on various subjectes such as the Indian Constitution, controlling mobs and maintaining cordial relations with the general public, etc. The training will be continued in different sessions including field work, Mr. Purnachandra Rao mentioned. The home guards selection would be further streamlined to make them responsible citizens, he added. During the camp, physical tests including running, long jumps etc held.

Auto drivers demands to withdraw cases

Members of the District Auto Rickshaw Association staged dharna at the District Collectorate to withdraw illegal cases on them on Monday. Mr. Rehman, representative of the Association pointedout the police and Road Transport Authorities for filing cases illegally against the auto drivers in the city limits. Thousands of school children were travelling in autorickshaw safely from home to school and back, meanwhile the authorities restricting the seating only to four children which incurred heavy loss to the drivers, he said. They held a rally from the Gandhi statue near Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation to Collectorate. A large number of auto drivers have participated in it. They demanded the officials to give relaxation in some of the rules like seating capacity to seven. Later, the representatives submitted memorandum to the district collectorate officials.

Ganta opens school building

Mr. Ganta Srinivas Rao, Minister for Ports and Investments inaugurated the school building built by Round Table-77 at Vasantha Bala Vidyodaya School near Gurdwara on Saturday. It was built by the Round Table - 77 with a project cost of Rs 40 lakh as part of the social responsibility. The entire building is eco-friendly and could accommodate more than 400 students. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ganta complimented the Round Table-77 for their gesture towards promoting education sector and assured them of all help from his side. He called upon voluntary organisations to come forward in sharing community service activities. Chairman of Vizag Round Table Ameet Mirpuri, member Ch. Kiran, Mr. Tynala Vijay Kumar, MLA- Visakha North, Mr. J. Venkateswarlu- Secretary of the school and others participated.

JC launches portal on civil supplies

Mr. M. Girija Shankar, Joint Collector formally launched a webportal on civil supplies ie www.visakhacitycs.com and www.visakharuralcs.com at the Collectorate here on Saturday. During the session he directed the dealers of essential commodities, wholesale kerosene dealers, LPG gas agencies and Fair Price dealers who had obtained licences through Andhra Pradesh State Scheduled Commodities Dealers’ Rules-2008, to send C-forms online by fifth of every month informing the details of various stocks existing with them. He advised that this webportal launched to overcome the difficulties in sending C-forms through postal service. While understanding the need for keeping a strict vigil on individual stocks of businessmen, Mr Sankar sought their cooperation in this regard. He said every businessman would be provided with a username and password to help send all details online. As the new system came into force from this month itself, the businessmen shall have to send the report of June by July 10 and from the following months, it should be sent by the fifth, he said. District Civil Supplies Officers Jwala Prakash and Rangakumari, District Informatics Centre officer Pasha, Civil Supplies officers of various circles, FP dealers and businessmen attended.

TDP protests for seeds, fertilisers

The activists of District Telugu Desam Party staged a mass dharna at the District Collectorate on Saturday against the insufficient supply of seeds and fertilisers to the farmers in the State. Addressing the session, Mr. Ch. Ayyannapatrudu, district convenor Telugudesam party alleged that the government was not able to supply required quantity of seeds and fertilisers to farmers due to wrong agriculture policies. He demanded to grant bank loans on time for the ensuing Kharif season so that farmers can utilise the amount properly. He further mentioned some of the failure schemes implemented for the poor and farmers by the ruling Congress. There was no sufficient power supply, as they were promised during the election campaign. If this situation continued further, the Telugudesam party will fight till the problem solved, he announced. Mr. V. Ramakrishna, MLA- Visakha East, Mr. Ramunaidu, MLA- Chodavaram, Mr. V. Ganesh Kumar, Mr. P. Srnivasa Rao, Ms. Gudivada Nagamni, Ms. Vani, Mr. Appalanarasimharaju, and other party cadre participated. Later the members of the Telugudesam submitted a memorandum to the Joint Collector.

Sustainable growth through SIRI: Suchitra Ella, CII AP Chairperson

Ms. Suchitra Ella, Chairperson, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) - Andhra Pradesh State, opined that the inclusive growth and sustainable development are possible through SIRI - (Skills, Innovation, Rural urbanisation and Infrastructure). Addressing the newsmen here on Saturday during a session she said that the Coastal districts of Krishna, West Godavari, Prakasam and Guntur (KGPG) are rich in natural resources and human resources, the CII is focusing on development of the nation. She further said that it was high time CII concentrated on what type of industries could be established in the coastal corridor. She said that Andhra Pradesh enjoyed the third place in the county with its industries mainly in areas like IT/ITES and pharma. "15-20 per cent of pharma and 15 per cent of IT/ITES exports are from Andhra Pradesh," she said.She further said that, the CII, AP State Council is working for creating of 15 million employments in the next couple of years. Earlier, the meeting of the CII Andhra Pradesh State Council was held here. Mr. TK Chand, Director- Rastriya Ispat Nigam Limited (Visakhapatnam Steel Plant) and other members of CII Vizag chapter also present.

Nrutyotsav in July

The Nataraj Music and Dance Academy is organising a two day National Classical Dance Festival in July, announced Mr. Vikram Goud, its founder. Addressing the newsmen at a press conference on Saturday, he said, this dance festival is exclusive for men classical dancers and artists from various states are going to perfom 13 performances in two days. On the first day seven performances and six on the next day will be exhibited at Kalabharati auditorium, Maddilapalem. The dance forms are as follows .. .. Manipuri dance by Mausam Nandi (Kolkata), Bharatanatyam by Patitra Bhat (Mumbai), Kuchipudi by VVS Jagannadha Rao (Visakhapatnam), Odissi by Rasni Ranjan Barik (Bhuvaneswar), Kuchipudi by Gururaj (Banguluru), Bharatatyam by Anil Vairar (Banguluru) on the first day, Kuchipudi by Dr. Lalith Kumar Gupta (Visakhapatnam), Odissi by Vikas Naik (Bhuvaneswar), Perini by Pavan Kumar (Hyderabad), Kuchipudi by PS Sai Kumar (Visakhapatnam), Andhra natyam by Sanjay Vadapalli (Hyderabad), Kuchipudi by Madan Mohan Mantri (Visakhapatnam). He further said that for the past few years, the NMDA is organising dance festivals to entertain the art lovers in the city. Mr. Vasireddy Srimanth, chairman, of the Dance festival released the poster and logo. Mr. Rekhala Krishna Goud, Dr. Bitra and others present.