Geneva, December 20: World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Saturday called for an integrated approach to traditional medicine within modern healthcare systems, stressing the need for evidence-based practices and regulatory oversight. He said traditional medicine continues to play an important role in healthcare for millions of people worldwide.
Tedros highlighted that integrating traditional medicine with modern healthcare can improve accessibility, affordability, and patient-centered care, particularly in developing countries. He emphasised the importance of scientific research, safety standards, and quality control to ensure effective and responsible use of traditional remedies.
The WHO chief noted that collaboration between governments, healthcare providers, and research institutions is essential to harness the benefits of traditional medicine. He added that a balanced and regulated approach could strengthen health systems while respecting cultural practices and knowledge.
New Delhi, December 20: The Ministry of Civil Aviation on Saturday urged all airlines to strictly adhere to passenger facilitation guidelines as fog-related weather disruptions continue to affect flight operations across several parts of India. Authorities emphasised ensuring passenger safety, timely communication, and adequate support during delays or cancellations.
Officials said airlines must provide clear information regarding flight schedules, arrange necessary accommodations, and assist stranded passengers in line with the government’s regulations. The advisory comes as dense fog has led to reduced visibility, affecting multiple airports and causing operational challenges.
The ministry stressed the importance of coordination between airlines, airport operators, and air traffic control to minimise inconvenience to passengers. Authorities assured that monitoring is ongoing and all necessary measures are being taken to ensure smooth airport operations despite adverse weather conditions.
VISAKHAPATNAM, Dec 20: A three-day CREDAI Property Expo commenced in Visakhapatnam, bringing together leading real estate developers from across Andhra Pradesh. The expo features a wide range of residential and commercial projects, including affordable housing, premium apartments, and investment-focused properties.
Organisers said the event aims to boost buyer confidence and highlight emerging real estate opportunities driven by urban expansion and infrastructure development. Developers noted that improving connectivity, rising demand, and favourable policies are contributing to positive momentum in the state’s real estate sector.
VIJAYAWADA, Dec 20: Andhra Pradesh has achieved a major milestone in healthcare digitisation, with 96 per cent of the population now registered under Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts (ABHA). Health officials said the achievement reflects effective implementation of digital health initiatives across the state.
The high coverage is expected to improve access to medical services, enable seamless sharing of digital health records, and reduce administrative delays in hospitals. Authorities added that the initiative will strengthen coordination between public and private healthcare providers, improving overall service delivery.
AMARAVATI, Dec 20: The Andhra Pradesh government has renamed the Jal Jeevan Mission Water Grid Scheme as ‘Amarajeevi Jaladhara’, honouring the legacy of freedom fighter Potti Sreeramulu. Officials said the renaming reflects the government’s intent to blend historical respect with development-oriented governance.
The scheme focuses on providing safe, reliable, and continuous drinking water to households across rural and urban areas. Authorities reiterated that strengthening water infrastructure remains a priority, as access to clean drinking water plays a vital role in public health, sanitation, and overall living standards.
AMARAVATI, Dec 20: The Andhra Pradesh government has proposed a major greenfield National Highway connecting Kharagpur–Cuttack–Visakhapatnam with Amaravati, aiming to significantly improve road connectivity across key coastal and inland regions. Officials said the proposed corridor will reduce travel time, improve passenger movement, and enhance transportation of goods between major economic centres and the state capital.
The highway is expected to strengthen logistics infrastructure, support industrial corridors, and encourage growth in trade, tourism, and agriculture-linked sectors. Authorities added that the project will attract fresh investments, generate employment opportunities, and contribute to balanced and long-term regional development in Andhra Pradesh.
New Delhi, December 19: The Civil Aviation Ministry on Thursday issued an advisory warning that airport operations in some regions of the country may be impacted due to adverse weather conditions and technical factors. Authorities have asked airlines, passengers, and airport staff to stay alert for possible delays or schedule adjustments.
The ministry advised passengers to check flight status with airlines before traveling and to plan their journeys accordingly. Officials said contingency measures are being put in place to minimise inconvenience and ensure safety at all airports.
Airports across affected regions may experience temporary disruptions in take-offs and landings, and additional air traffic management measures have been deployed. The ministry emphasised that passenger safety remains the top priority while operations continue under monitoring conditions.
Agartala, December 19: Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Thursday inaugurated the third Foundation Day celebrations of Agartala Government College, highlighting the institution’s contributions to higher education in the state. The event marked an occasion to celebrate academic achievements and future development plans.
Speaking at the event, CM Saha emphasised the importance of quality education and encouraged students and faculty to continue pursuing excellence in academics and research. He also underlined the role of government institutions in shaping the future workforce and fostering innovation.
Officials said various cultural and academic programs were organised as part of the celebrations, with students and staff participating enthusiastically. The Chief Minister also interacted with students and faculty, appreciating their efforts in promoting a vibrant educational environment in Agartala.
New Delhi, December 19: Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Thursday expressed concern over what he described as an unfortunate atmosphere in the House, which disrupted the smooth conduct of proceedings during the ongoing Winter Session of Parliament. He highlighted that repeated interruptions and adjournments are affecting the discussion of critical bills and policy matters, delaying the government’s legislative agenda. The minister emphasised that such disruptions are a setback to parliamentary decorum and public trust in democratic institutions.
Shekhawat stated that Parliament is the primary platform for debating and deliberating issues that impact millions of citizens, and disruptions prevent meaningful discussions on key national concerns. He underlined that both ruling and opposition members have a responsibility to engage constructively, while respecting the rules and traditions that govern parliamentary proceedings. The minister further remarked that dialogue, debate, and consensus-building are essential to ensure that Parliament functions effectively, serving the larger interest of the nation.
The Union Minister also urged opposition members to cooperate and allow legislative business to proceed without obstruction, stressing that public expectations from Parliament are high. He added that the government remains committed to addressing genuine concerns raised by all parties, but such engagement must happen in an orderly manner within the established parliamentary framework. Shekhawat concluded by reaffirming that maintaining decorum and fostering a collaborative environment are vital for a healthy democracy and effective governance.
Visakhapatnam, December 19, 2025: The stage is set in Visakhapatnam to create a new chapter in the IT sector. Global technology giant Google has given the green signal for an unprecedented large-scale investment in Andhra Pradesh. With a massive investment of ₹87,520 crore, Google is set to establish a mega AI Data Center, marking one of the biggest technology investments ever in the state.
To fast-track the execution of this ambitious project and ensure there are no bureaucratic delays, the Andhra Pradesh government has moved swiftly. In a key decision, the government has issued orders constituting a special Executive Steering Committee, aimed at eliminating red tape and ensuring smooth and timely implementation.
1,000 MW Capacity, Partnership with Adani Group
The prestigious project will be undertaken by Raiden Infotech India Private Limited, a subsidiary of Google. The AI Data Center will be developed in Visakhapatnam with a massive 1,000 megawatt capacity. For this project, Google has partnered with select industry leaders, including Adani Infra, Adani Connex, and Nxtra (Airtel), which have been designated as “notified partners.”
To facilitate the project, approximately 480 acres of land have been identified across Visakhapatnam and Anakapalli districts. Raiden Infotech has requested the state government to transfer these land parcels to Adani Infra and other project partners.
High-Powered Committee to Address Bottlenecks
Given the scale of the project, the government has entrusted oversight responsibilities to a high-level, multi-departmental committee to prevent any delays. The IT Department Secretary will serve as the Chairperson, while the Special Chief Secretary (IT) will act as the Convener.
The committee includes senior officials from key departments such as IT, Energy, Municipal Administration, Water Resources, Revenue, Commercial Taxes, and Finance. Representatives from the AP Pollution Control Board, AP FiberNet, APIIC, and APEDB are also part of the committee.
From the investors’ side, representatives of Raiden Infotech, Adani Group, and Airtel, along with a nominee from the Union Ministry of IT, will be members of the committee.
Role and Responsibilities of the Committee
The committee’s primary objective is to ensure the swift completion of the project. Its responsibilities include facilitating land allocation, environmental clearances, municipal permissions, and other approvals through a single-window mechanism.
The committee will identify inter-departmental coordination issues and resolve bottlenecks that could hinder progress. It will also monitor the timely release of government incentives. Issues that cannot be resolved at the committee level will be escalated to the Chief Secretary, who is mandated to resolve them within 14 days. The committee will meet twice every month to review project progress and address challenges.
Deadline Set Until 2026
The government has set a defined tenure for the Executive Steering Committee, which will remain operational until December 31, 2026. The tenure may be extended if required until the project is fully completed.
Experts believe the Google AI Data Center will be a game-changer in transforming Visakhapatnam into a major IT hub. The proactive steps taken by the state government are expected to boost investor confidence and strengthen Andhra Pradesh’s position in the global technology ecosystem.
