Category: NATIONAL

Vijayawada, January 20:
In response to the increased movement of pilgrims, temple administrations across Andhra Pradesh stepped up crowd management and security measures to ensure the safety and convenience of devotees. Additional police personnel, temple volunteers and administrative staff were deployed at key temples to regulate queues and manage peak-hour rush. CCTV surveillance was closely monitored, while entry and exit routes were clearly demarcated to prevent congestion within temple premises. Medical teams, ambulances and emergency response units were kept on standby as a precautionary measure. Authorities also issued advisories urging devotees to adhere to temple guidelines, cooperate with staff, and avoid carrying prohibited items. Officials said these measures were aimed at maintaining a peaceful atmosphere and ensuring that devotees could have a spiritually fulfilling experience while safeguarding public safety across religious centres in the state.

Amaravati, January 20:
A large number of devotees gathered at major Hindu temples across Andhra Pradesh on Monday to offer special prayers and participate in daily religious rituals, reflecting continued faith and devotion among worshippers. Prominent shrines such as Tirumala, Srikalahasti, Simhachalam and Kanaka Durga temples witnessed steady footfall from the early hours of the day, with pilgrims arriving from different districts of the state as well as neighbouring regions. At Tirumala, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) implemented strict time-slot darshan arrangements and maintained an orderly queue system to ensure smooth movement of devotees. Priests conducted traditional abhishekams, archana and Vedic chanting, while devotees offered coconuts, flowers and special offerings, praying for peace, health and prosperity. Temple authorities stated that despite the heavy rush, darshan proceeded smoothly without major disruptions, owing to coordinated efforts by temple staff and security personnel.

Ayodhya, January 20:
Ayodhya is witnessing an unprecedented surge in pilgrim footfall as millions of devotees from different parts of the country arrive to seek blessings at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. The steady inflow of worshippers has transformed the holy city into a hub of spiritual activity, with chants of ‘Jai Shri Ram’ echoing through temple corridors and surrounding areas. To manage the massive crowds, the district administration has deployed additional police forces, introduced time-slot based darshan, and enhanced surveillance using CCTV cameras and drones. Special facilities, including medical camps, drinking water stations, and resting zones, have been arranged to ensure the safety and comfort of pilgrims. Officials said coordination between temple authorities and local administration has been strengthened to maintain order and allow devotees a peaceful and fulfilling darshan experience.

Thiruvananthapuram, January 20:
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday carried out coordinated raids across multiple states as part of its ongoing investigation into the Sabarimala temple gold theft case. Officials said the raids targeted key locations linked to suspects and were aimed at collecting crucial evidence related to the alleged smuggling and misappropriation of temple valuables.

The ED stated that the operation is part of a broader effort to trace the stolen assets, identify accomplices, and examine the financial transactions associated with the case. Investigators confirmed that several individuals connected to the incident are being questioned, and the agency will continue to monitor movements of suspected entities while coordinating with local law enforcement agencies to ensure a thorough inquiry.

Amaravati, January 20:
The Andhra Pradesh government has asserted its claim over land worth nearly ₹4,000 crore in Kondapur, stating that Telangana has no legal right over the disputed property. Officials said the claim is based on documentary evidence and historical ownership records.

The state government indicated that the matter would be pursued through appropriate legal channels to protect Andhra Pradesh’s interests. The dispute is expected to be taken up in court as part of the ongoing inter-state issues between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

Amaravati, January 20:
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Monday announced that Andhra Pradesh will soon introduce drone taxi and drone ambulance services as part of its vision to adopt advanced technology in public transportation and emergency healthcare. The initiative is aimed at reducing travel time and improving access to critical medical services, especially in congested urban areas and hard-to-reach regions.

The Chief Minister said the state is working with technology partners to ensure safety, regulatory compliance and efficient operations. Officials added that pilot projects may be launched initially before expanding the services across major cities and key locations in the state.

Amaravati, January 20:
The Andhra Pradesh government on Monday credited thrift fund amounts into the accounts of weavers’ cooperative societies as part of its ongoing welfare initiatives. The financial assistance is intended to provide relief and economic support to handloom workers who continue to face challenges due to rising costs and market competition.

Officials said the release of funds would help weavers meet working capital requirements and sustain traditional handloom practices. The government reiterated its commitment to protecting the livelihood of weavers and strengthening the handloom sector through continuous financial and policy support.

Amaravati, January 20:
In a significant administrative move, the Andhra Pradesh government has made payment of property tax compulsory for the registration of immovable properties across the state. Officials said the decision aims to improve tax compliance and bring greater transparency into the property registration process.

The government believes the measure will help local bodies strengthen their financial position and improve civic services. Revenue department officials have been directed to strictly enforce the rule while facilitating smoother registration procedures for compliant property owners.

Amaravati, January 20:
The Andhra Pradesh government on Monday launched animal ambulance services across the state with the objective of providing timely veterinary care to livestock and supporting farmers in rural and remote areas. Officials said the initiative would ensure faster response during medical emergencies involving cattle, goats and other domestic animals, thereby reducing losses for farmers and improving animal health management.

The government stated that the service is part of a broader plan to strengthen the rural economy and enhance veterinary infrastructure. Dedicated helpline numbers and trained medical staff will be deployed to operate the animal ambulances, with special focus on districts having a high dependence on agriculture and dairy farming.

Mumbai, January 19: The process for selecting the next Mayor of Mumbai has garnered significant attention as political parties gear up to nominate candidates for the post. The Mayor, who serves as the head of the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM), plays a crucial role in overseeing the city’s civic administration, implementing policies, and representing Mumbai in official capacities.

The selection process begins after the results of the municipal corporation elections are finalized. The newly elected corporators from various political parties elect the Mayor from among themselves. Typically, the term of the Mayor lasts for 2.5 years, after which the process is repeated. The election involves nomination of candidates by political parties, followed by voting within the municipal house. The party with a majority in the corporation usually ensures its nominee is elected. This year, discussions around the Mayor’s selection have intensified amid political maneuvering, alliances, and talks of consensus candidates, highlighting the strategic importance of the post in Mumbai’s governance landscape.