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Guntur, January 7:
Guntur district in Andhra Pradesh is set to host the National-level SARAS Mela 2026, an event aimed at showcasing rural enterprises, traditional crafts and women-led livelihood initiatives from across the country. Organised as part of efforts to promote self-help groups and grassroots entrepreneurship, the mela will bring together artisans, farmers, weavers and small-scale producers, providing them with a national platform to market their products and connect directly with consumers. Officials said the event will highlight locally made handicrafts, handloom products, organic foods and rural innovations, reflecting the diversity and economic potential of India’s village-based industries.

The SARAS Mela is expected to attract large public participation and boost economic activity in the region while encouraging sustainable livelihoods and women empowerment. Government representatives noted that the exhibition will also include cultural performances, skill demonstrations and awareness sessions on financial inclusion and entrepreneurship. The hosting of the national-level event in Guntur underscores Andhra Pradesh’s growing role in promoting rural development and inclusive growth, while offering self-help groups an opportunity to expand their reach, enhance income generation and preserve traditional skills in a competitive market environment.

Amaravati, January 7, 2026: In its 14th meeting, the State Investment Promotion Board (SIPB) of Andhra Pradesh approved 14 new investment proposals worth ₹19,391 crore, a move expected to generate around 11,753 jobs across key sectors including tourism, food processing and energy. Chaired by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, the board highlighted that this approval adds to the state’s broader investment portfolio, which has cumulatively reached ₹8.75 lakh crore with potential to create up to 8.36 lakh jobs. The meeting also underscored strategic plans for a 15-kilometre pollution-free beach stretch at Suryalanka to boost tourism, industrial land development near Kopparthi and a push for enhanced competitiveness in the power sector with reduced tariffs aimed at attracting energy-intensive investments like data centres. Naidu praised strong coordination between political leadership and bureaucracy, urging seamless execution of projects, and also inaugurated the AP IT Infrastructure portal during the session. Officials said that the investment approvals reflect growing confidence among investors and reinforce Andhra Pradesh’s position as a preferred business destination in South India.

Vijayawada, January 7, 2026: Andhra Pradesh Agriculture Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu on Thursday launched a new technology-driven micro-irrigation programme aimed at enhancing sustainable farming practices and increasing farmers’ incomes across the state. The initiative, themed “Smart Irrigation Towards Sustainable Agriculture,” promotes automation and sensor-based irrigation systems to optimise water and fertiliser use in agricultural production, particularly benefiting horticulture and high-value crop farmers. Atchannaidu highlighted that the modernised irrigation approach could reduce water usage by 20–30 per cent, lower labour costs, and improve crop yields, while driving more efficient and climate-resilient farming methods. The programme, implemented under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY), includes financial assistance of up to ₹2.40 lakh per hectare with higher subsidy rates for small, marginal, and SC/ST farmers, reinforcing the government’s focus on inclusive agricultural growth. Officials noted that fixed pricing, quality inspections, and an AP Micro Irrigation Project (APMIP) seal will ensure transparency and long-term viability of the systems, with the state aspiring to emerge as a national leader in smart agriculture technology.

Indore, January 3:
A resident of Indore has alleged that his father lost his life after consuming contaminated drinking water, raising serious concerns over water quality and civic negligence in the city. Speaking to reporters, the resident claimed that several people in the locality had fallen ill after using water supplied through municipal pipelines and accused the authorities of failing to act despite repeated complaints. He said his father’s health deteriorated rapidly after consuming the water, following which he was hospitalised and later succumbed.

The incident has sparked outrage among local residents, who are demanding an immediate investigation into the alleged contamination and accountability of civic officials. Residents have urged the administration to conduct water quality tests and ensure the supply of safe drinking water to prevent further loss of lives. Meanwhile, the local administration has stated that samples have been collected for testing and necessary steps are being taken to address the issue. The matter has once again highlighted concerns over urban water management and the urgent need for strict monitoring of public utilities to safeguard public health.

Chennai, January 3:
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Friday stressed that the police force must adopt a firm approach in dealing with crime while remaining compassionate and people-friendly in its conduct. Addressing senior police officials, the Chief Minister said law enforcement should strike a balance between strict action against criminals and humane treatment of the general public. He emphasised that public trust is the backbone of effective policing and urged officers to act responsibly, transparently and without prejudice.

Stalin further highlighted the importance of modernisation, training and accountability within the police department to meet emerging challenges. He said the government is committed to strengthening law and order while ensuring that citizens feel safe, respected and confident in approaching the police. The Chief Minister reiterated that misuse of power or insensitivity towards people would not be tolerated, adding that a compassionate police force is essential for maintaining social harmony and democratic values in the state.

Bastar, January 3:
As many as 14 Maoists were killed in two separate encounters with security forces in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur and Sukma districts, Bastar Inspector General of Police Sundarraj P said on Friday. The encounters took place during anti-Naxal operations launched based on specific intelligence inputs about the presence of armed Maoist cadres in forest areas under the Bastar division. Security forces recovered weapons, explosives and other incriminating materials from the encounter sites.

According to police officials, joint teams comprising District Reserve Guard (DRG), Special Task Force (STF) and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) units were conducting area domination and search operations when Maoists opened fire, prompting retaliatory action. The IG said sustained operations are being carried out to neutralise Left Wing Extremism and ensure lasting peace in the region. He added that security forces remain alert and committed to dismantling Maoist networks while safeguarding civilians and restoring normalcy in affected areas.

New Delhi, January 3:
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday chaired the Parliamentary Consultative Committee meeting of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), where key issues related to internal security, law and order, and administrative reforms were discussed in detail. The meeting was attended by members of Parliament from various parties, who reviewed ongoing initiatives of the Ministry, including measures to enhance border security, strengthen anti-terror operations, and improve coordination among central and state law enforcement agencies. Shah emphasised the importance of proactive policymaking, transparency, and timely implementation of security-related schemes to ensure the safety of citizens across the country.

During the meeting, Shah highlighted efforts to modernise the police and paramilitary forces, strengthen intelligence sharing, and utilise technology for effective crime prevention. He also encouraged MPs to provide suggestions and feedback for improving the Ministry’s programmes, noting that cooperative engagement between the Parliament and executive is crucial for effective governance. Committee members discussed topics ranging from disaster management and rehabilitation of internally displaced persons to countering Left Wing Extremism and enhancing cybersecurity infrastructure. Shah concluded the meeting by reiterating the government’s commitment to maintaining internal security while upholding democratic values and ensuring that citizens’ rights and safety remain a top priority.

New Delhi, January 3:
Union Minister on Saturday emphasised India’s historical and cultural role as a protector of Lord Buddha’s heritage and a carrier of his teachings and traditions. Speaking at a commemorative event, the minister highlighted India’s centuries-old contributions to the preservation and dissemination of Buddhist philosophy, art, and monuments. He said that the country’s commitment to promoting peace, non-violence, and cultural harmony continues to reflect the essence of Buddha’s teachings in modern times. The minister also pointed out that India remains a hub for Buddhist pilgrims from across the world, showcasing the nation’s unique position in preserving spiritual heritage while promoting global cultural diplomacy.

The minister further stressed that government initiatives aimed at protecting Buddhist sites, promoting research on Buddhist history, and supporting international Buddhist exchanges demonstrate India’s ongoing dedication to its cultural and spiritual responsibilities. He called upon citizens and institutions to participate actively in preserving these legacies for future generations. The speech also drew attention to India’s role in propagating Buddhist values of compassion, mindfulness, and social welfare, positioning the country as a global ambassador for peace and interfaith dialogue. Observers noted that such statements reinforce India’s soft power and cultural influence, especially in countries with significant Buddhist populations, while underlining the government’s focus on heritage conservation and international engagement.