Income Tax searches are underway at premises linked to Tamil Nadu Minister Senthil Balaji

Income Tax searches underway at premises linked to Tamil Nadu Minister Senthil Balaji: The Income Tax authorities launched coordinated searches across different locations in Tamil Nadu linked to state Electricity Minister V Senthil Balaji on Friday, police sources said. The raids are currently underway in Chennai, Karur, Coimbatore, and other places. Clash broke out in Karur during the searches: The clash broke out in Karur when I-T officials came to search the premises of Balaji’s brother Ashok. Balaji’s supporters allegedly vandalized a car. Close relatives of the minister and some contractors were also among those whose premises were being searched by the tax authorities. For more reads : Tamil Nadu Minister

Tricoloured Bangles

The weather in Firozabad appears to be changing at the drop of a hat. Amidst the mild sunshine, a dribbled breeze showers over the duo of Ashok and his granddaughter, Rekha, with the former handing his poti, the luminously tinkling bangles he created. The clinking of the kaleidoscopic glass on the wrist of the eight-year-old seems to echo in the half-built shack they are sitting in. A look of sudden remembrance dawns on the little girl’s face as she turns to her grandfather with a quizzical look on her face.

"Dadaji, what is an Indian?"

Ashok pauses and blinks. What should he tell her? Which of the many possible answers should he give to that simple, innocent question?

He takes a moment to think. "Why do you ask?"

Rekha looks out into the grey oblivion, as if it’s obvious. "Well, everyone speaks different languages, people wear different attires, and we all eat different cuisines. But what makes us all Indian?"

Rather abruptly, Ashok realises that he can’t give her a quick answer. How do you sum up a nation of more than a billion people for an inquisitive little child?

But Ashok understands that her curiosity must be nurtured; her sense of wonder and openness ought to be preserved. He must think of an answer.

So he talks. He begins by telling her of the many peoples that have shaped the landscape; of the rise and fall of emperors and empresses; the religions that have waxed and waned; and of the laws that have been proclaimed. He describes the influence of the British and how their control over India made the Indians feel robbed of freedom and basic rights. He speaks of Bhagat Singh, of Sarojini Naidu, of Sardar Patel, and of Chandra Shekhar Azad, all of whom devoted themselves to shape the integral nation that is Bharat.

As Ashok delves further and deeper into the influences of being Indian, he finds himself sharing his own reminiscences of the events that shaped history.

He recalls the oppression and exploitation that myriad felt under the British rule, followed by the overwhelming relief, ecstasy, and the excruciating pain of partition at independence. Then it was Prime Minister Pandit Nehru who verbalised those feelings in his declaration on 14th August,1947 -

"At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom. A moment comes, but rarely in history, when we step out from the old to the new, when an age ends, and when the soul of a nation, long suppressed, finds utterance."

He remembers feeling a whirlpool of emotions – everyone did. It was a turning point in Itihas. Together, they all swept away British rule and ushered in the birth of the eternal and sovereign Indian nation.

But this anecdote is infamous for its lurches between hope and dark despair. As India and Pakistan were pulled asunder, the forging of their identities became stained with blood. Ashok’s eyes moisten as the memory of the horrific stories of partition comes rushing back. He stops short of telling those to Rekha.

He couldn’t let his pain and endurable nostalgia taint her naivety – at least not today. Ashok’s answer to her query should be that an Indian is a Marathi, Gujarati, Punjabi, Bihari, and Tamil; he is also Hindu, Muslim, Zoroastrian, Christian, and Buddhist. They are all Indian, and together they are India.

If the hope and despair of 1947 taught Ashok and many of his counterparts something, it is that Indian identity is all-encompassing and that when we allow our differences to become prejudices, to become walls that divide us, distrust and violence accumulate, and we demolish the very idea of India.

After all this talking, he asks her, gently, "Now, beti—what do you think an Indian is?"

The sun sheds its rays with a pleasant warmth – almost as if camouflaging the cool breeze attempting to assert its dominance. Rekha rearranges her bangles and then clinks them together, showing the colours of orange, white, and green together.

Beaming at the tricoloured chunks of furnaced glass on her fragile wrist, she answers,

"It is us, Dadaji. Us and everyone else."

India's Tech Manufacturing Landscape Poised for Transformation with TDP's Influence

In 2024, N Chandrababu Naidu and his Telugu Desam Party (TDP) might play a pivotal role in reshaping India's tech manufacturing landscape, particularly in Andhra Pradesh.

Renowned for transforming Hyderabad into a technology hub, Naidu's focus on tech innovation is evident even in TDP’s welfare-oriented manifesto, which highlights the promotion of artificial intelligence in the largely agrarian state. With the TDP's support being crucial for the BJP-led NDA to form the next central government, Naidu’s party is positioning itself to influence the allocation of centrally subsidized manufacturing projects, potentially placing Andhra Pradesh on the map as a major tech manufacturing destination.

Naidu often reminisces about his significant meeting with Microsoft founder Bill Gates in the 1990s, which led to the establishment of a Microsoft development center in Hyderabad. This pivotal moment catalyzed Hyderabad's emergence as a key IT hub, now home to giants like Google, IBM, Amazon, and Hewlett-Packard. During his tenure as Chief Minister, Naidu continued his tech-forward initiatives, such as signing an MoU with the Adani Group in 2019 to build data center parks in Visakhapatnam.

Concerns have been raised about new projects, particularly in the electronics sector, favoring Gujarat during the previous BJP-majority government. However, with a TDP MP potentially at the helm of the IT Ministry, Andhra Pradesh could attract significant investments in semiconductor assembly, laptop, and mobile manufacturing facilities. This shift could decentralize tech manufacturing from Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Karnataka to Andhra Pradesh, further diversifying India's tech production map.

Already, Apple supplier Foxlink has a base in Andhra Pradesh, hinting at the state's potential to attract more tech suppliers. With Hyderabad no longer serving as the joint capital of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, TDP aims to develop Amravati as the new capital, leveraging its influence in the new government to secure manufacturing projects along the Visakhapatnam-Chennai Industrial Corridor. This strategic move could bolster TDP's standing against local rival YSR Congress Party (YSRCP).

Naidu's role as a potential kingmaker could also address the financial challenges hindering Amravati's development, a project close to his heart. Despite setbacks, including the withdrawal of funding from the World Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, Naidu remains committed to making Amravati a reality, opposing YSRCP's preference for Visakhapatnam as the administrative capital.

TDP’s manifesto provides a glimpse into its vision for the future, promising the creation of special employment zones and incentives for job-generating enterprises. It also aims to restore Andhra Pradesh’s brand, attract foreign investments, and leverage advanced technologies like AI and machine learning to boost industrial growth. Plans to develop Rayalaseema as an automotive hub and enhance the Chennai-Bangalore Industrial Corridor reflect Naidu’s comprehensive strategy for state development.

In conclusion, N Chandrababu Naidu and TDP’s potential influence in the central government could significantly alter India's tech manufacturing landscape, positioning Andhra Pradesh as a key player in the sector. Their strategic vision promises a blend of technological innovation, industrial growth, and employment generation, heralding a new era for the state and the country.

Chandrababu Naidu, MK Stalin meet at Delhi airport after NDA, INDIA bloc meetings, photos surface

TDP supremo N Chandrababu Naidu thanked the people for the overwhelming mandate given to NDA. In a social media post, Naidu thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior BJP leaders Amit Shah and JP Nadda for their commitment to Andhra Pradesh’s future. Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief N Chandrababu Naidu and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin exchanged pleasantries at the Delhi airport and…

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Vanam-Manam Project Andhra Pradesh Ambitious Green Initiative

In a bold and ambitious move, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) government in Andhra Pradesh, led by former Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, has undertaken a comprehensive project to significantly increase the state's forest cover. The 'Vanam-Manam' initiative, launched as part of the Mission Haritha Andhra, aims to elevate the current forest cover from 22% to an impressive 50% by 2029. Under the leadership of Forest Minister Siddha Raghava Rao, the government has augmented the budget of the forest department by 50%, demonstrating a commitment to the cause. Emphasizing the significance of the state's rare herbs and valuable red sandalwood reserves, the government has set an ambitious target of planting 25 crore saplings as part of the Vanam-Manam project.

To facilitate the project's success, the Ministry of Forests has implemented various strategies. Check dams are being constructed in forest areas to boost water levels, ensuring sustainable growth for newly planted saplings. The government is also focusing on urban forestation, recognizing its importance in maintaining ecological balance. In a proactive move, manpower is being reallocated to combat the menace of red sandal smugglers along the Andhra Pradesh-Tamil Nadu borders. Minister Siddha Raghava Rao, during a state-level workshop in Amaravati, highlighted the government's commitment to environmental preservation. He announced 20 eco-tourism projects, with eight slated for completion by December 2017, showcasing the state's dedication to balancing conservation efforts with sustainable development.

The TDP government's determination to protect forests is further exemplified by its celebration of the International Day of Biological Diversity. Former Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu with the help of TDP MLAs organized a program with the theme "Biodiversity and Sustainable Tourism," emphasizing the state's rich biodiversity. The Andhra Pradesh State Board for Biodiversity is actively involved in preserving and documenting the diverse species found in the state. Recognizing the importance of the state's expansive coastline and diverse climatic conditions, Minister Raghava Rao emphasized the need for green belts to address environmental imbalances. The TDP government launched a statewide tree plantation program, the 'Vanam-Manam' initiative, which saw Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu kick-starting the campaign. With a target of planting 26 crore saplings in just 127 days, the government encourages active participation from citizens across the state.

The Vanam-Manam project stands as a testament to Andhra Pradesh's commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development. Through strategic planning, increased budgets, and community involvement, the TDP government is striving to create a greener and more ecologically balanced future for the state. Find the latest TDP news on the official website of TDP. -

N Chandrababu Naidu’s Vision For Andhra Pradesh's Green Future Through 'Vanam-Manam’

Under the leadership of N. Chandrababu Naidu, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) government in Andhra Pradesh has embarked on an ambitious mission to significantly increase the state's forest cover. The TDP agenda is to raise the current forest cover of 22% to an impressive 50%. To realize this vision, the government has allocated substantial funds to the forest department, boosting its budget by 50%. This commitment to environmental conservation is not only commendable but also critical for the state's ecological balance. At the forefront of this green revolution is the 'Vanam-Manam' project, initiated by the Ministry of Forests. This TDP development, an integral part of the broader 'Mission Haritha Andhra,' aims to plant a staggering 25 crore saplings. The ultimate target is to cover at least 50% of the state with lush greenery by 2029. The 'Vanam-Manam' initiative has captured the imagination of the people, encouraging active participation from all corners of the state. Sidda Raghava Rao, the Forest Minister, presided over a state-level workshop and review meeting in Amaravati. During this event, he unveiled various measures to promote afforestation and safeguard the existing green spaces.

 A notable TDP contribution is the construction of check dams in forested areas to bolster water resources. Furthermore, urban afforestation is a priority, ensuring that even the cities are teeming with green life. To protect the valuable red sandalwood reserves, the ministry is diligently adjusting manpower to counter the activities of red sandal smugglers along the Andhra Pradesh-Tamil Nadu border. In addition to these TDP policies, the government has undertaken 20 eco-tourism projects, with eight of them slated for completion by December 2017. These eco-tourism projects will not only contribute to the local economy but also promote responsible tourism, emphasizing the need for ecological preservation and sustainability. Environment, Forests, and Science & Technology Minister Siddha Raghava Rao affirmed N Chandrababu Naidu’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the state's forests. He stressed the importance of maintaining environmental balance and green belts to counteract imbalances caused by various factors. As part of these efforts, Andhra Pradesh's vast coastline, replete with diverse species and climatic conditions, is being explored for its potential to attract tourists while preserving the natural beauty of the region.

The TDP leaders' commitment to biodiversity is evident in its celebration of the International Day of Biological Diversity. The concept for this event is "Biodiversity and Sustainable Tourism."

The 'Vanam-Manam' project, launched by former Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu during his tenure, stands as a testament to the TDP government's dedication to afforestation. This statewide tree plantation program, kick-started by the Chief Minister, aims to plant a remarkable 26 crore saplings within 127 days. The TDP party actively encourages people from all corners of the state to participate in this tree plantation drive, fostering a sense of collective responsibility towards environmental conservation. In conclusion, the Andhra Pradesh TDP government's commitment to expanding its forest cover and preserving biodiversity is a commendable endeavour. The 'Vanam-Manam' project, along with various other TDP achievements of conservation initiatives, is not only setting an example for other states but also underlining the importance of sustainable environmental practices in the face of increasing environmental challenges. Navigating through the latest news and Political news in Andhra Pradesh will give widespread information regarding Chandrababu Naidu and the TDP Party.

TDP Launches Website to Defend Chandrababu Naidu's Legacy Amidst Skill Development Scandal

In the aftermath of the arrest of former Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu over allegations of a multi-crore scam in the Skill Development Corporation project, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) has taken a proactive step to present their version of the narrative. On Friday, the party unveiled a dedicated website, apskilldevelopmenttruth.com, aimed at disseminating what they claim are the "facts" surrounding the controversial project.

TDP state President Kinjerapu Atchannaidu, while addressing the media, emphasized that the website would serve as a repository of information detailing N. Chandrababu Naidu's contributions to the youth. Atchannaidu asserted that the website would shed light on the meticulous design of the project and its intended purpose to propel the youth toward greater heights. The TDP leader maintained that the website would not only highlight the vision of N. Chandrababu Naidu but also counter false propaganda that the state government has been spreading. According to Atchannaidu, the platform is a comprehensive source of information, backed by evidence, intended to demonstrate that the national-level leader had not engaged in any irregularities. According to reports, the website details the origins, implementation, and benefits of the Skill Development project. Atchannaidu drew attention to the fact that several other states, including Gujarat, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka, had implemented similar projects, and the information on their experiences is also accessible on the website.

Interestingly, Atchannaidu pointed out that while the project was initiated during the TDP regime, the accolades for its success were received by the current YSRCP government. He expressed the TDP's satisfaction with the project's positive impact on youth, despite what they perceive as attempts to shift credit away from N. Chandrababu Naidu. Providing specific statistics, Atchannaidu detailed the success of the Skill Development project, claiming that 2,17,500 youth received training, with approximately 70,000 finding employment. He emphasized the condemnation of N Chandrababu Naidu's arrest that came from the Telugu society and argued that the details on the website debunked the allegations made by the TDP against him. As the political drama unfolds in Andhra Pradesh, the launch of this website marks a strategic move by the TDP to present its version of events and counter the accusations surrounding the Skill Development Corporation project amidst the arrest of N. Chandrababu Naidu. In the days to come, this controversy will undoubtedly be shaped by the unfolding developments and the public's response. Look into the live updates on the TDP activities and N Chandrababu Naidu contributions to the Andhra Pradesh youth.

This initiative by the TDP showcases their determination to defend their leader's legacy and reputation while providing their perspective on the Skill Development project. The website serves as a platform for the party to present their side of the story, share evidence, and engage with the public in an attempt to counter the allegations against N. Chandrababu Naidu. In the coming days, it remains to be seen how this online effort influences public perception and the ongoing political discourse in Andhra Pradesh.

TDP Counters Skill Development Scandal with  Launch of Information Portal

Over allegations of a multi-crore scam in the Skill Development Corporation project on the former N. Chandrababu Naidu, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) has taken a proactive step to present their version of the narrative. On Friday, the party unveiled a dedicated website, apskilldevelopmenttruth.com, to disseminate what they claim are the "facts" surrounding the controversial project. While addressing the media, TDP state President Kinjerapu Atchannaidu emphasized that the website would serve as a repository of information detailing Chandrababu Naidu's contributions as the Chief Minister towards the youth's future. Atchannaidu asserted that the website would shed light on the meticulous design of the project and its intended purpose to propel the youth toward greater heights.

The TDP leader maintained that the website would not only highlight Chandrababu Naidu's vision but also provide a rebuttal to what they perceive as false propaganda by the state government. According to Atchannaidu, the platform is a comprehensive source of information, backed by evidence, intended to demonstrate that the national-level leader had not engaged in any irregularities. The website reportedly includes details from the inception of the Skill Development project, its implementation, and the benefits accrued to individuals. Atchannaidu drew attention to the fact that several other states, including Gujarat, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka, had implemented similar projects, and the information on their experiences is also accessible on the website. AP skill development is one of the Top TDP Achievements done by Chandrababu Naidu.

Interestingly, Atchannaidu pointed out that while the project was initiated during the TDP regime, the accolades for its success were received by the current YSRCP government. He expressed the TDP's satisfaction with the project's positive impact on youth, despite what they perceive as attempts to shift credit away from Chandrababu Naidu. Providing specific statistics, Atchannaidu detailed the success of the Skill Development project, claiming that 2,17,500 youth received training, with approximately 70,000 finding employment. He emphasized the condemnation of Chandrababu Naidu's arrest by the Telugu society and argued that the details available on the website debunked what the TDP considers baseless allegations against their leader.

As the political drama unfolds in Andhra Pradesh, the launch of this website marks a strategic move by the TDP to present its version of events and counter the accusations surrounding the Skill Development Corporation project amidst the arrest of Chandrababu Naidu. The unfolding developments and the public's response will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of this controversy in the days to come. To get full information about this article go with the Political news of TDP.

Vanam-Manam project by TDP Government

Mr. Siddha Raghava Rao said that the Andhra Pradesh TDP government, led by N. Chandrababu Naidu, is taking measures to increase the forest cover in the state from 22% to 50% in the future. He has increased the budgets of the forest department by 50% and emphasized the state's rare herbs and valuable red sandalwood reserves.

The Andhra Pradesh TDP government has set a new target of developing green coverage across at least 50% of the state by 2029. To achieve this goal, the Ministry of Forests has launched the 'Vanam-Manam' project, which aims to plant 25 crore saplings. The project is a part of Nara Chandrababu Naidu’s Government Mission Haritha Andhra, which aims to increase the state's green coverage.

Forest Minister Sidda Raghava Rao held a state-level forest department officials' workshop and review meeting in Amaravati, where he announced that check dams are being built in forest areas to increase water levels, and urban forestation is being taken special care of. He also mentioned that the ministry is adjusting manpower to tackle the menace of red sandal smugglers in the Andhra Pradesh-Tamil Nadu borders. The ministry has also taken up 20 eco-tourism projects, of which eight will be ready by December 2017, to know more about TDP MLAs News and TDP Political News visit the TDP official site.

The Andhra Pradesh TDP government is determined to protect forests in the state, says Minister for Environment, Forests, and Science & Technology, Siddha Raghava Rao. Mr. N. Chandrababu Naidu the former CM of Andhra Pradesh is organizing a program to celebrate the International Day of Biological Diversity, with the theme of “Biodiversity and Sustainable Tourism.” The Andhra Pradesh State Board for Biodiversity is making efforts to preserve the biodiversity in the state. Visit TDP’s official website to know TDPs Live Updates and TDP Recent News.

Andhra Pradesh has a huge coastline with a variety of species and climatic conditions that attract tourists. The forest officials should develop green belts to remove environmental imbalances, says Mr. Raghava Rao. Andhra Pradesh TDP government launched a statewide tree plantation program on July 15, called the ‘Vanam-Manam’ initiative, which was kick-started by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu during his tenure. The TDP government is aiming to plant 26 crore saplings within the next 127 days and is encouraging people from all over the state to participate in the tree plantation drive and became Top TDP Achievements.

Plant more trees to protect ecological balance: RS Chairman Venkaiah Naidu

Aug 10, 2022 15:38 IST New Delhi, August 10 (Always First): Outgoing Rajya Sabha Chairman and Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu on Wednesday appealed to everyone to "protect, promote and propagate plantation of trees", and said that planting trees should be a people's movement. Naidu, who is serving his last day in office as a Rajya Sabha Chairman and Vice President, made the observation while planting a sapling in the Parliament House Complex marking the completion of five years in office. The sapling planted is Sita Ashoka, a perennial, evergreen tree valued for its ornamental fragrant flowers and medicinal values. The tree belongs to the family "Fabaceae" and is considered one of the most legendary and sacred tree. It is also known as Ashoka, Karkeli (Sanskrit), Asogam (Tamil), Oshok (Bengali). Vanjulamu (Telagu), Ashokam (Malyalam) and Ashokadamara (Kannada) etc. Ashoka literally means "without sorrow". Speaking on the occasion, Naidu said that "one plant is equal to 100 sons as also stipulated in our puranas" and appealed to everyone to protect, promote and propagate plantation of trees.Secretary General of Rajya Sabha P. C. Mody and other senior officials of the secretariat were present on the occasion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi bade farewell to Naidu in the Rajya Sabha on Monday, praising him for his witty one-liners and encouraging parliamentarians to speak in their mother tongue and promoting democratic values during his "highly productive" five-year term. Naidu, 73, completed his five-year term as Vice-President on Wednesday (August 10). (Always First) Read the full article

Tamil Nadu: Dharmapuri DSP gets opportunity to carry 'President’s Colours'

The Tamil Nadu Police is among the few police forces in the country to receive the coveted ‘President’s Colours’ Vice-President of India M. Venkaiah Naidu presented the prestigious ‘President’s Colours’ for the Tamil Nadu Police to Chief Minister M.K. Stalin in a customary ceremony in Rajarathinam Stadium in Chennai on Sunday.

Mr. Stalin announced that a medal would be awarded to every police personnel in the force to mark the feat.

The Tamil Nadu Police is among the few police forces in the country to receive the coveted ‘President’s Colours’. Though the ‘President’s Colours’ for the Tamil Nadu Police was approved as early as August 19, 2009 when late leader M. Karunanidhi was the Chief Minister, it could not be presented in all these years.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Naidu said the Tamil Nadu Police was one of the best in the country, which was known for its commendable service. Even as he noted that Tamil Nadu had the first women commando unit in the country, he said, “a lot remains to be done to provide them with equal opportunity” and further urged the police personnel to be “extra sensitive” to crimes against women.

Mr. Naidu also called upon the police force to deal with modern day crimes such as cyber crimes and online frauds. He also commended the Tamil Nadu government over providing housing facilities for police personnel in the State. Later, he also released a special postal cover to mark the presentation of ‘President’s Colours’ to the Tamil Nadu Police, received by the Chief Minister.

During his speech, Mr. Stalin said that the Tamil Nadu Police receiving the ‘President’s Colours’ was not only a matter of pride to the State police force but also to Tamil Nadu. He also recalled that it was under the Chief Ministership of late leader M Karunanidhi that women police personnel were inducted into the force in 1973, a first-of-its-kind initiative in the country.

Pointing out that police custodial deaths have reduced from 17 in 2018 to four in 2021, he said: “I request the police to ensure that there are no custodial deaths.” He also wanted them to arrest at once those who are accused in sexual offences and offences under the POCSO Act and wanted accused persons to be dealt with an “iron fist”.

Director-General of Police C. Sylendra Babu and Chennai Police Commissioner Shankar Jiwal also spoke at the event. Earlier, the CM, Chief Secretary V. Irai Anbu, Home Secretary K. Phanindra Reddy, DGP and Chennai Police Commissioner received the Vice President, when cavalcade arrived in the stadium.

The chief guest took the ceremonial salute and inspected the Guard of Honour by police contingents, — the State Disaster Response Force, Commandoes, Coastal Security Group and the Nilgiris. ‘Tamil Nadu Police Pipe Band’ also displayed a spectacular performance at the event. IPS officer A. Pradeep was the parade commander.

The Chennai Floods

On December 1, 2015, the city received around 290 mm of rain in a single day causing, a catastrophic flood disaster. The deluge followed a month of persistent monsoon rains. South India experienced heavy rains during November and December 2015 due to the formation of a depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal. Heavy widespread incessant rainfall activity led to waterlogging and flood-like conditions in parts of Karnataka, coastal Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu.

Tamil Nadu was one of the worst affected states and Chennai, in particular, was one of the worst-hit districts.

The Chembarambakkam reservoir, which was full, was blamed for flooding the city, with officials mismanaging the release of waters. The sudden discharge of the water caused the Adyar River to breach it’s banks in a few areas, resulting in massive flooding.

President Pranab Mukherjee said he was " Saddened by the loss of human lives and serious damage to infrastructure in Chennai " , stating his ' prayers and good wishes are with the people of Tamil Nadu during this difficult time ' . On 2 December, Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed the ongoing flood situation with Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley. In the Lok Sabha, Parliamentary Affairs Minister M Venkaiah Naidu said that Singh would chair a high-level meeting to deliver relief to the people of Tamil Nadu.

He said the ministers were " trying to coordinate with various agencies on relief operations " , and that he had alerted the Civil Aviation Ministry to send food to the relief camps.

As the extent of the disaster became clear, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi flew to Chennai on the afternoon of 3 December to personally review the relief efforts.

He met with the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu Jayalalithaa and conducted an aerial survey of flood-stricken areas in the city. In a brief statement which he began in Tamil, upon arriving at Adyar naval base, Modi expressed support and later tweeted

" The Government of India stands shoulder to shoulder with the people of Tamil Nadu in this hour of need. "

ஆந்திர மாநிலத்தில் முதற்கட்ட மக்களவை தேர்தல் நடைபெற்று வருகிறது, அம்மாநிலத்தில் 30 சதவீதத்திற்கு மேலான வாக்குசாவடிகளில் மின்னனு வாக்கு இயந்திரம் செயல்பட வில்லை என்ற அதிர்ச்சி தகவல் வெளியாகியுள்ளது.

Microsoft’s First Built For India Product Brings Remote Areas To The Digital Fold

Recent research conducted by multiple consultancies conclude that there are about 650 million mobile phone users in India, with over 300 million using a smartphone. Unsurprisingly, India also boasts the fastest year-on-year growth in the number of internet users, close to 40 million, according to a report by Google. The report also suggests India has close to 400 million active internet users and over 300 million connected via smartphones. In fact, according to Mary Meeker, India comprises of about 12% of the global internet users of 3.8 billion.

Cheaper tariff rates coupled with the influx of affordable, budget smartphones in the market have contributed to this unprecedented growth. A significant portion of India’s internet consuming smartphone users come from tier 3 and tier 4 cities, small towns and villages. The initiative to bring the rural and remote areas into the digital fold is further boosted by apps like Microsoft Kaizala.

Kaizala, Microsoft’s built for India product is a chat-based productivity and messaging app that was conceived at the Microsoft India Development Center headquartered at Hyderabad and was launched in the year 2017. This app is built to handle large group communications and onboard entire network of contacts using open directory. The app provides enterprise level security along with inbuilt functional features like making announcements, creating instant polls and surveys, creating and maintain large groups with unlimited member count and more.   

 Kaizala solves one of the biggest problems plaguing the people from remote areas- effective communication and connect with various service providers and vice versa.

 Organizations have started utilizing Kaizala as a practical customer relationship management platform, to engage and communicate with the end user. For instance, YES Bank has been using Kaizala’s real-time data collection for tracking recovery and onboard new sales leads. Deodutta Kurane, the Group President at Yes Bank considers Kaizala as the enabler of growth that accelerates the company’s growth by being a relationship management factor. The app has helped YES Bank employees to connect with other employees and customers in a very natural way.

 Another instance comes from the government sector. AP Government under the then Chief Minister Chandra Babu Naidu, adopted Kaizala as means to connect with the citizens. The public group AP CM Connect which grows everyday allows over 250,000 people connect with the government, stay updated with latest policy changes and register complaints accordingly. The app was first implemented as communication tool for the officials tasked with crowd management at the famous Pushkaram festival in Andhra Pradesh. After the brilliant response, the app has been steadily used by the state’s Society for Elimination of Rural Poverty (SERP). Kaizala was also used by the Uttar Pradesh government during the Kumbh Mela in Allahabad to manage the activities on a central level.

 Telehealth services offered by Apollo Health, in remote areas with limited access to healthcare and medical help, also utilizes Kaizala to gather real-time data from the clinics instantly. The staff uses the chat app to update all the information collected in the form of a report. This helps the service provider, in this case Apollo Health, better serve the users.  

 Kaizala is also improving the efficiency of the mobile workforce and individuals without access to work systems. Employees deployed in remote locations no longer need a laptop to send reports, field data and daily updates. They can do so by connecting to their organization’s work group(s) on Kaizala. The managers can then track their updates by visiting the admin portal and reviewing the generated detailed report. The app can be accessed using a 2G network, which is perfect for locations with limited or poor connectivity.

 The app is available in Marathi, Tamil, Telegu, Hindi, Bengali and Gujarati making it easier for regional language users to connect and communicate without any hassle. Kaizala is bringing about real change at the grass roots level by enabling people from the remote areas to connect with organizations, service providers and government officials, communicate with friends and family, and improve job effectiveness.

Tributes to Juthika Roy, on the 5th death anniversary of the legendary bhajan singer. Hailed as the 'adhunik Meera' during the pre-Independence days, Juthika Roy was popular for her Meerabai bhajans like “Ghunghat ke pat khol” and “Pag Ghunghru Baandh Meera Naachi Re”. Juthika Roy sang for a number of Hindi and Bengali films and became very famous during her time. Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru both were known to be great fans of her melodious voice. When Nehru was on his way from Teen Murti Bhavan to Red Fort in Delhi to hoist the flag of an independent India on August 15, 1947, Roy's bhajans were being broadcast live on All India Radio (AIR). As she finished singing and was about to leave the station, AIR officials told Roy, then 27, Prime Minister Nehru wanted her to continue till he unfurled the flag. In an interview she had said that Sarojini Naidu had told her that Mahatma Gandhi used to listen to her songs everyday when he was jailed in Pune. "He used to start his prayer meeting every morning playing discs that played my bhajans," Juthika Roy had once said. Later on, she had privately performed for the Mahatma in his house. She had recorded her first album at the tender age of 12 and had famous rebel poet Kazi Nazrul Islam as her mentor. Juthika Roy sang many songs for the famous Bengali music director Kamal Dasgupta. The soulful Narayan stuti (hymn) “Narayan Shriman Narayan” recorded in her voice is still popular. Besides Hindi and Bengali, the singer had given her voice to a number of songs in other languages like Urdu and Tamil. Juthika Roy died on 5 February 2014 in Kolkata after a prolonged illness. May her soul rest in eternal peace.

Andhra Pradesh TDP Government's Ambitious Plan to Increase Forest Cover: Vanam-Manam

Under the leadership of N. Chandrababu Naidu, the Andhra Pradesh TDP government has embarked on an ambitious mission to significantly increase the forest cover in the state. To raise the current forest cover from 22% to an impressive 50%, the government has implemented several measures and initiatives to achieve this target. Minister for Environment, Forests, and Science & Technology, Siddha Raghava Rao, has been at the forefront of these efforts, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity preservation and sustainable tourism. This article will delve into N. Chandrababu Naidu's contributions and initiatives aimed at enhancing the state's green coverage.

To expedite the expansion of green coverage, the Ministry of Forests has launched the 'Vanam-Manam' project. This initiative forms a crucial part of N Chandrababu Naidu's government Mission Haritha Andhra, which is focused on increasing the state's greenery. The 'Vanam-Manam' project sets an ambitious target of planting 25 crore saplings across Andhra Pradesh. With a timeline that extends until 2029, the project aims to cover at least 50% of the state's land area with forests. To support these reforestation efforts, the Andhra Pradesh TDP party-led government has increased the budgets of the forest department by 50%. This financial boost allows for the allocation of necessary resources, manpower, and infrastructure to carry out large-scale tree plantation activities. TDP MLA Siddha Raghava Rao has also highlighted the importance of water management in forest areas. The construction of check dams in strategic locations will help increase water levels and promote healthier ecosystems. Recognizing the significance of urban areas, the government is giving special attention to urban forestation. By incorporating green spaces and planting trees in cities and towns, the government aims to create a harmonious balance between urban development and environmental preservation. This step not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of urban areas but also promotes cleaner air, improved biodiversity, and better overall well-being for residents.  Search the TDP website for recent news and live updates of TDP.

In addition, the Ministry of Forests is actively addressing the issue of red sandalwood smuggling along the Andhra Pradesh-Tamil Nadu border. By adjusting manpower and employing effective strategies, N. Chandrababu Naidu seeks to curb this illegal activity, which poses a threat to the valuable red sandalwood reserves of the state. Andhra Pradesh boasts a diverse coastline, unique species, and varied climatic conditions that attract tourists from far and wide. Minister Siddha Raghava Rao emphasizes the need to develop green belts to rectify environmental imbalances caused by human activities and to protect fragile ecosystems. In line with this objective, the government has undertaken 20 eco-tourism projects, aimed at promoting sustainable tourism while safeguarding biodiversity hotspots. To raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity conservation, the former Chief Minister, N. Chandrababu Naidu, is organizing a program to celebrate the International Day of Biological Diversity. The Andhra Pradesh State Board for Biodiversity plays a vital role in preserving the state's unique biodiversity. Through various initiatives, the board works towards sustainable development while ensuring the protection and restoration of ecosystems and species. The Andhra Pradesh TDP leader's commitment to increasing forest cover in the state is commendable. Through initiatives like the 'Vanam-Manam' project, urban forestation, eco-tourism promotion, and stringent measures against red sandalwood smugglers, the government is taking significant steps towards achieving its target of 50% green coverage. As the state continues to prioritize biodiversity conservation and sustainable tourism, it is poised to become a role model for other regions striving to strike a balance between development and environmental preservation.