Category: NATIONAL

Vijayawada, December 23:
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu announced that the Andhra Pradesh government will provide a monthly honorarium of ₹5,000 to pastors across the state as part of welfare support measures. The amount will be directly credited to beneficiaries’ bank accounts.

The Chief Minister said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to social welfare and inclusive development. He added that support programmes for various sections of society are being implemented transparently to ensure financial stability and dignity.

Community representatives welcomed the announcement, stating that the assistance would help pastors meet basic needs and continue their service to society without financial hardship.

Vijayawada, December 23:
In a major boost to maternal healthcare, the Andhra Pradesh government has introduced Targeted Imaging for Fetal Anomalies (TIFFA) scan facilities in seven secondary-level government hospitals across the state. The initiative aims to improve early detection of fetal abnormalities and ensure better prenatal care.

Health officials said the new facilities will reduce the burden on tertiary hospitals and make advanced diagnostic services accessible to women in semi-urban and rural areas. The move is expected to benefit thousands of pregnant women every month by enabling timely medical intervention.

The government said strengthening public healthcare infrastructure remains a top priority, with a special focus on women and child health. More hospitals are expected to be covered under the programme in the coming months.

Visakhapatnam, December 23:
The PESA Mahotsav, a two-day cultural and governance event, began in Visakhapatnam on Monday with the objective of promoting awareness about the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA). The event highlights the importance of tribal self-governance, traditional knowledge systems and cultural heritage.

Leaders and officials participating in the event underlined the role of PESA in empowering tribal communities and strengthening grassroots democracy. Cultural programmes, exhibitions and interactive sessions are being organised to showcase tribal art forms, customs and governance practices.

The state government reiterated its commitment to implementing PESA provisions effectively and ensuring that tribal communities actively participate in decision-making processes related to land, forests and local resources.

Amaravati, December 22:
The Andhra Pradesh government on Sunday conducted a comprehensive review of the implementation of key welfare schemes across the state, focusing on delivery efficiency, beneficiary reach and ground-level impact. Senior officials presented district-wise updates to the state leadership, highlighting progress made in sectors such as agriculture, education, healthcare and social welfare.

During the review, emphasis was laid on ensuring timely disbursal of benefits under flagship programmes, resolving pending grievances and improving coordination between departments. Officials were instructed to closely monitor last-mile delivery, particularly in rural and tribal areas, to ensure that eligible beneficiaries are not left out due to procedural delays or documentation issues.

The government reiterated its commitment to transparent governance and people-centric administration, directing district collectors to strengthen field-level inspections and digital tracking mechanisms. The review meeting concluded with instructions to submit follow-up reports within stipulated timelines, underscoring the state’s focus on effective implementation and accountability in welfare governance.

Srikakulam, December 23:
A severe whitefly infestation has caused extensive damage to coconut plantations in Andhra Pradesh’s Uddanam region, leading to a sharp decline in production. Farmers reported that coconut yields have dropped significantly, affecting livelihoods and causing financial stress across the farming community.

Agriculture officials said the infestation has spread rapidly due to favourable climatic conditions, impacting thousands of acres of farmland. Farmers expressed concern over rising input costs and falling output, stating that immediate intervention is required to control the pest and prevent further losses.

The state government has instructed agriculture and horticulture departments to intensify field inspections and promote integrated pest management practices. Officials assured farmers that technical support, awareness programmes and possible compensation measures are being examined to mitigate the crisis and restore crop productivity.

Visakhapatnam, December 23:
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Monday interacted with thousands of students as part of the state government’s initiative to promote quantum technology and advanced digital skills. The interaction was aimed at creating awareness among youth about emerging technologies and preparing them for future opportunities in high-end research and innovation sectors.

Addressing students, the Chief Minister emphasised the importance of quantum computing, artificial intelligence and deep-tech innovations in shaping the future economy. He said Andhra Pradesh is committed to becoming a technology-driven state by establishing world-class research centres and skill development platforms. The proposed quantum ecosystem, he added, will provide students with global exposure, internships and industry-linked learning opportunities.

Officials stated that the programme is part of a broader vision to position Andhra Pradesh as a hub for next-generation technologies, attract investments, and generate high-quality employment for the youth. The government plans to collaborate with leading academic institutions and technology firms to ensure long-term benefits.

Chennai, December 22:
Tamilaga Murpokku Kazhagam (TMK) on Sunday reiterated its strong commitment to safeguarding social harmony and religious amity, asserting that unity and mutual respect among communities remain central to the party’s ideology. The party said it firmly believes that peace and inclusiveness are essential for the overall progress of society.

TMK leaders stated that attempts to create divisions on religious or social lines must be addressed with dialogue, constitutional values and collective responsibility. Emphasising the need for tolerance and coexistence, the party underlined that diversity has always been India’s strength and should be preserved at all costs. TMK also called upon political parties and civil society to act responsibly and avoid rhetoric that could disturb communal harmony.

Reaffirming its stand, TMK said it will continue to work towards promoting understanding, harmony and unity across all sections of society. The party added that maintaining religious amity is not only a political responsibility but also a moral duty, necessary for ensuring long-term stability, development and social justice in the country.

New Delhi, December 22:
The Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi on Sunday reserved its judgement in a case related to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, involving a former accused. The court heard final arguments from both the prosecution and the defence before deciding to reserve the order.

The case pertains to allegations of violence, including rioting and related offences, that took place during the 1984 riots following the assassination of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The prosecution argued that sufficient evidence and witness testimonies establish the role of the accused, while the defence contested the credibility of the evidence and sought acquittal.

The court is expected to pronounce its verdict at a later date. The 1984 anti-Sikh riots cases have remained a matter of legal and public importance for decades, with victims and their families continuing to seek justice through the judicial process.

New Delhi, December 22:
Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Monday alleged that opposition parties consistently attempt to belittle India’s image, both domestically and internationally. He emphasised the need for constructive debate in Parliament while focusing on the nation’s development priorities.

Speaking to reporters, Scindia said that while healthy criticism is part of democracy, certain political actions and statements by opposition leaders aim to undermine India’s achievements. He called for discussions in Parliament to remain fact-based and issue-focused.

Political analysts noted that Scindia’s remarks highlight the growing tensions between the ruling party and opposition ahead of upcoming legislative sessions. They said such statements often signal the government’s approach to defending its policies and initiatives on national and global platforms.

Scindia further urged the media and public to distinguish between constructive criticism and attempts to project a negative image of India, emphasising transparency, accountability, and progress as the government’s core objectives.

New Delhi, December 22:
An Air India flight from Delhi to Mumbai made an emergency landing on Monday after the crew reported a technical issue shortly after takeoff, officials said. All passengers and crew on board were reported safe, and no injuries were reported.

Air India officials stated that the aircraft was diverted to the nearest suitable airport as a precautionary measure. Emergency response teams were deployed, and the technical fault is currently under investigation by the airline and aviation authorities.

Passengers expressed relief as airline staff ensured safety protocols were followed and facilitated smooth disembarkation. Aviation experts noted that such precautionary landings are standard practice to prioritise passenger safety in case of technical concerns.

Authorities have confirmed that flight operations at the airport resumed normally after the incident, and a detailed report on the technical issue is expected in the coming days. The airline reassured passengers that safety remains its highest priority.