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Telangana Sets Target Of 120 GCCs, 1.2 Lakh Jobs In 2026: Minister Sridhar Babu
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Telangana Sets Target Of 120 GCCs, 1.2 Lakh Jobs In 2026: Minister Sridhar Babu

Telangana IT and Industries Minister D Sridhar Babu on Monday announced that the State has set an ambitious goal of establishing 120 Global Capability Centres (GCCs) within the next year, creating nearly 1.2 lakh jobs. Speaking at the inauguration of the Vanguard New India Global Value Centre (GVC) at Knowledge Park, Hitec City, the Minister said Hyderabad has emerged as a hub of trust, integrity and innovation, attracting leading multinational firms. Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka was also present on the occasion. "Vanguard -- one of the world's largest investment management companies, with over $6.4 trillion in assets under management -- choosing Hyderabad for its Global Value Centre reflects the city's talent, stability and global competitiveness," he said, according to an official statement. The Minister noted that the Telangana government is not merely attracting investments, but is also preparing local youth for future-ready employment. "To ensure our youth benefit from these jobs, we will provide skilling, reskilling and upskilling in artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analytics, cloud engineering and cybersecurity," he added. Seven of the world's top asset management companies currently operate from Hyderabad, collectively managing over $30 trillion in assets, the statement mentioned. The newly inaugurated Vanguard center will focus on engineering excellence, cloud modernization, AI-led solutions, data security and global digital platforms. Inviting more global firms to invest in the State, he said, "We encourage international industry leaders to be partners in the story of Rising Telangana."

Tiruvuru TDP MLA Appears Before Party Disciplinary Committee
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Tiruvuru TDP MLA Appears Before Party Disciplinary Committee

Amaravati: Tiruvuru TDP MLA Kolikapudi Srinivasa Rao appeared before the Telugu Desam Party’s disciplinary committee on Tuesday following the recent controversy involving him and Vijayawada MP Kesineni Sivanath (Nani).The TDP high command summoned both leaders after Srinivasa Rao alleged that Nani had taken crores of rupees to secure him the party ticket for the Tiruvuru constituency. The MLA had reportedly posted what he claimed to be “proof” of the alleged payment on his WhatsApp status, sparking a political storm within the party.MP Kesineni Nani strongly denied the allegations, describing them as “baseless and motivated,” and asserted that people were intelligent enough to see through the claims.Taking serious note of the internal feud, the TDP leadership directed both leaders to present their explanations before the disciplinary committee. While Srinivasa Rao appeared before the panel in the morning, Nani is expected to attend the hearing at 4 p.m. today.The ongoing dispute between the two leaders, simmering for some time, has now escalated into a full-blown confrontation, causing concern among the party’s top brass.

Munnuru Kapu, Kapu Communities Extend Unanimous Support to Naveen Yadav in Jubilee Hills Bypoll
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Munnuru Kapu, Kapu Communities Extend Unanimous Support to Naveen Yadav in Jubilee Hills Bypoll

Hyderabad: The Munnuru Kapu and Kapu communities have declared their unanimous support for Congress candidate Naveen Yadav in the upcoming Jubilee Hills by-election. A massive community meeting, titled Munnuru Kapu–Kapu Athmeeya Sammelanam, was held at Majestic Gardens, Moosapet, in the presence of Telangana PCC Chief Mahesh Kumar Goud, Minister Ponnam Prabhakar, Government Whip Adi Srinivas, and several senior Congress leaders including Shyam Mohan, Eeravathri Anil, Vinay, Akula Lalitha, KK Mahender Reddy, Gali Anil Kumar, Bomma Sriram Chakravarthi, Sattu Mallesh, Vasala Raju, Thumu Vinay Kumar, and Miryala Raghava Rao. Speaking at the gathering, Mahesh Kumar Goud said that Rahul Gandhi’s message for social justice has transformed into a mass movement, strengthening the fight for 42% reservations for Backward Classes (BCs) in Telangana. He said, “The entire nation is watching Telangana’s commitment to BC rights. The Congress Party has given leadership opportunities to BCs — something the BRS and BJP have failed to do.” He recalled that former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi once appointed BC leader Hanumanthu Rao as PCC Chief, emphasizing that Congress has a legacy of empowering BCs. Goud urged unity among BCs, stating that their strength lies in solidarity, not division. He added, “If BCs unite, no one can stop us. Rahul Gandhi’s vision has inspired us to fight for equality. The Congress high command chose a BC candidate, Naveen Yadav, for Jubilee Hills because the BC slogan is now echoing strongly across the state.” Mahesh Kumar Goud called on every member of the BC community to work collectively to ensure a massive victory for Naveen Yadav, asserting that his win would be a matter of pride and representation for all BCs. He concluded, “The Jubilee Hills bypoll is a golden opportunity for BCs to show their strength. If Naveen Yadav wins with a huge majority, it will send a powerful message for BC empowerment in Telangana.”

Telangana Govt Approves Land Acquisition for Adilabad Airport Development
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Telangana Govt Approves Land Acquisition for Adilabad Airport Development

Hyderabad: The State government has approved of acquiring 700 acres of land in Adilabad district to develop a joint user airfield at Adilabad. The approval, issued through G.O. Ms. No. 73 by the Transport, Roads & Buildings (Airports) Department, marks a key step in the state’s initiative to enhance regional air connectivity.The Airports Authority of India (AAI) was earlier appointed as the consultant to prepare the Techno Economic Feasibility Reports (TEFRs) for six proposed regional airports in Telangana. The feasibility study submitted by AAI identified Adilabad as one of the viable locations for airport development, subject to necessary clearances.Following recommendations from AAI and the state’s Aviation Directorate, the government directed the District Collector of Adilabad to acquire the required land and proceed with the development process.

Who is Indian Cricketer Smriti Mandhana
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Who is Indian Cricketer Smriti Mandhana

As vice-captain of the Indian women's cricket team, Smriti Mandhana has a long history with the sport. On 18 July 1996, she was born to a Marwari Hindu family in Mumbai, Maharashtra. When she was two years old, her family moved to the Maharashtrian suburb of Madhavnagar in the district of Sangli, where her father and brother played district-level cricket. Her brother soon began playing for Maharashtra's Under-16 team, inspiring Mandhana to pursue the sport herself.She was chosen to play in the state's Under-15 team by the age of nine, joining the Under-19 team just two years later. In 2013, she competed against the state of Gujarat in a one-day match, beating the team with 225 balls and becoming the first Indian woman to score a double-century in a single day's game. After this breakthrough, she quickly climbed the ranks and began competing against international teams. From England to South Africa and Bangladesh, Mandhana scored a century in all match formats - the first Indian woman to do so.She proved to be a high achiever, holding the joint most international centuries, second most ODI centuries, second most runs in T20I, most fifty-plus scores in T20I, and the fastest ODI ton.Mandhana has been recognised for her talent by numerous organisations. She was awarded the Best International Cricketer in the 2018 BCCI Awards, deemed Cricketer of the Year by ICC in 2018, nominated T20 Player of the Year in 2021 and Cricketer of the Year in 2021, deemed Cricketer of the Year by ICC again in 2022, and won OCI Cricketer of the Year in 2025.She was one of the first Indians, along with Harmanpreet Kaur, to sign up for the Women's Big Bash League with Brisbane Heat in 2016, after which she competed in other franchises, including the Kia Super League and The Hundred.Mandhana was offered Rs. 3.4 crores by RCB in the 2023 WPL auction - the highest bid in the auction - and was made the team's captain shortly after. Under her leadership, the team won their first WPL title in 2024, a testament to her expertise.This year, Smiriti Mandhana led the Indian cricket team to its first Women's Cricket World Cup victory alongside captain Harmanpreet Kaur, bringing the nation its first WWC win and further adding to her impressive cricket profile. This article is authored by Tejasree K , an intern at Deccan Chronicle

Saudi Arabia Launches 2nd  Global Harmony Initiative with India Week
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Saudi Arabia Launches 2nd Global Harmony Initiative with India Week

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, launched the second edition of its ‘Global Harmony’ initiative with ‘India Week’ as the inaugural celebration under the Riyadh Season. Part of the Quality-of-Life Program supporting Saudi Vision 2030, the initiative aims to celebrate the diversity of residents living in the Kingdom and spotlight their cultural heritage, contributions, and successful integration into Saudi society. The Global Harmony initiative reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to inclusivity and cross-cultural understanding, highlighting the professional, social, and recreational lives of expatriates who enrich the nation’s cultural and economic landscape. This year, the Ministry of Media, in collaboration with the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), will host a series of cultural and entertainment events under the Riyadh Season. The celebrations opened with ‘India Week,’ honoring the Indian community’s longstanding contributions and showcasing the country’s vibrant culture through music, dance, cuisine, art, and traditional crafts. Indian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan lauded the initiative, saying, “Building on the success of last year’s edition, this year’s celebration promises to be even grander, featuring renowned Indian artists and performers. The Global Harmony Initiative is an excellent platform to build cultural bridges and strengthen the historical bonds between India and Saudi Arabia.” The broader Global Harmony program will feature 14 cultural celebrations representing the diverse communities residing in Saudi Arabia, including those from India, the Philippines, Indonesia, Egypt, Yemen, Jordan, Uganda, and Ethiopia. The events will include concerts, traveling performances, traditional food and handicraft showcases, and family-friendly activities open to all residents and citizens.

Want to Join Indian Navy In 2025? Eligibility, Courses, and Selection Process
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Want to Join Indian Navy In 2025? Eligibility, Courses, and Selection Process

For aspirants who wish to join the Indian Navy, there are several entry routes that one can take, including the Indian Naval Academy (INA) Course, Short Service Commission (SSC) entries, and the Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam.Through the Indian Naval Academy (INA)Located in Kannur, Kerala, the Indian Naval Academy provides foundational training to recruits. Cadets must train for 4 years, while direct entry graduate candidates only need 22 weeks of training. The 118th Indian Naval Academy Course (INAC) will commence on 2 July, 2026.Once the course begins, each trainee is assigned to a Squadron, headed by a Squadron Commander (a Commander/Lieutenant Commander) who is assisted by Divisional Officers (Lieutenants), consisting of up to four divisions with about 40 trainees per division. All trainees learn and grow together under the Commander's supervision, creating an environment for holistic development.Applications for the INA course can be submitted via the official website, joinindiannavy.gov.in.Through the Short Service Commission (SSC)Based on their scores in qualifying educational examinations, candidates are shortlisted and join the Navy as Sub-Lieutenants once they clear the induction medical exam at INA, Ezhimala, Kerala.If selected under GS(X), the candidate might have to undergo specialisation in RPA depending on their service requirements and medical fitness.Applications for entry can be submitted by providing the necessary details on joinindiannavy.gov.in.Through the Combined Defence Services (CDS) examThe CDS exam is a national-level examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission twice a year for recruitment in the Army, Navy, and Air Force.Applications for the exam can be submitted through the UPSC website, upsc.gov.in. The notification for the next round of applications will be released on 10 December this year, and the exam will be conducted on 12 April, 2026.This article is written by K.Tejasree, an intern

Similarity ≠ Compatibility? How Biology Works Against Incest
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Similarity ≠ Compatibility? How Biology Works Against Incest

Imagine this. You're on a date, and it's going amazingly. The conversation is flowing, the food is delicious, and the person is super fun. Now you've almost reached home, and now comes the moment you've been waiting for - the first kiss. You look into each other's eyes, slowly lean in, and kiss. And it sucks. Everything was objectively right, but somehow didn't sit well.However, it's not just amicability that determines sexual compatibility; genetics play a significant role in who we pick as our partners. The human body has in-built mechanisms that repel others with similar genes - especially in romantic or sexual contexts - to avoid inbreeding. This concept is based on a group of genes known as the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC)."It may be tempting to think that humans choose their partners because of their similarities," Maria da Graça Bicalho, a professor of immunology at the University of Paraná in Brazil, told The Guardian. "[But] our research has shown clearly that it is differences that make for successful reproduction."Numerous studies have shown that humans prefer to mate with individuals who have dissimilar MHC genes. In 1955, an experiment was conducted where women were asked to smell T-shirts worn by different men over the course of several days. It was found that women consistently preferred the scent of men with different MHC genes from their own.In another 2005 experiment, it was found that women found the faces of men with dissimilar MHC genes more attractive than those with similar MHC genes. This biological mechanism can be seen as a strategy to produce offspring with a diverse immune system, increasing their chances of survival.Every part of our body carries traces of DNA, including bodily fluids such as sweat and saliva. So when someone's kiss or smell feels off-putting, that could be a sign of genetic similarity and, in turn, incompatibility.But genetics don't impact sexual attraction alone. Even when two people have lived in close, domestic proximity to each other during early childhood, they might become sexually desensitised to each other despite not being genetically related - a phenomenon known as the Westermarck effect.When individuals grow up together, like in the case of Israeli communal peer groups or Chinese minor marriages, they become sexually averse to each other and subsequently, unable to rear children."We expect to find that cultural aspects play an important role in mate choice, and certainly do not subscribe to the theory that if a person bears a particular genetic variant it will determine his or her behaviour," Bicalho explained to The Guardian. "But we also think that the unconscious evolutionary aspect of partner choice should not be overlooked."Genetic compatibility plays a significant role in healthy reproduction, ensuring that children grow up strong and able. Next time you're repulsed by a potential lover's taste or body odour, perhaps think twice about whether the relationship is worth compromising your bloodline's immunity system.

Hallowtide: Christianity’s Three Sacred Days of the Dead
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Hallowtide: Christianity’s Three Sacred Days of the Dead

While Halloween is celebrated worldwide, not all the festivities end there. For many Christians, Halloween is only the beginning of a three-day period known as Hallowtide (alternatively Allhallowtide or Hallowmas), a triduum of feasts to commemorate the dead. Each day has its own significance and observances:31 October - All Hallows’ EveToday's Halloween is an amalgamation of Celtic tradition and Christian influence. The ancient festival of Samhain was celebrated on 1 November, a time when it was believed that the boundaries separating the living and the dead grew thin. Celts would dress up in costumes and light bonfires to ward off evil spirits – traditions which are reflected in modern Halloween practices – but the church later added their own religious twist to the festival.In the 7th century CE, Pope Boniface IV established All Saints’ Day and Pope Gregory III moved the day from 13 May to 1 November a century later, christening the pagan holiday. So, All Hallows’ Eve, or Halloween as we know it, derives its name from the main celebration of All Saints’ Day, with the word ‘hallow’ referring to a saint or holy person.While the vigils of Catholic feasts are typically associated with fasting, some had feasts on the 31 itself. It was also customary for poor members of the community to engage in ‘souling’ where they would receive spiced pastries known as ‘soul cakes’ from affluent neighbourhoods. In exchange, they promised to pray for the souls of the deceased relatives of the household during Allhallowtide.1 November - All Saints’ DaySince the early days of the church (with the earliest records from the 4th century), Christians have honoured the dead. All Saints’ Day was originally dedicated to Christian martyrs, but later expanded to include all followers of Christ.The community gathers to commemorate the memory of the dear departed, offering prayers and visiting cemeteries to place flowers or light candles on their graves.2 November - All Souls’ DayAll Souls’ Day is the most recent addition to Hallowtide, established by St. Odilo of Cluny in the 11th century before spreading to other monasteries.Unlike the previous days’ celebrations, it is dedicated to the souls of the faithful who have yet to be cleared of their sins and gain entrance to heaven. It was believed that offering prayers and sacrifices on their behalf could free their spirits from purgatory.Since All Soul’s Day is tied to the Catholic idea of purgatory, the Protestant church doesn’t participate in the intercession –but for Roman Catholics and the Church of England, All Souls’ Day continues to be significant till this day.

Vegetable, Seafood Prices Soar In Vizag After Cyclone Montha
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Vegetable, Seafood Prices Soar In Vizag After Cyclone Montha

VISAKHAPATNAM: In the aftermath of Cyclone Montha, prices of food in Visakhapatnam have risen sharply, particularly those of vegetables and seafood. Prices have shot up at rythu bazaars, which are a crucial source of affordable produce. This has led to pressure on household budgets, causing concern among consumers and vendors.According to the latest price list released by the district administration, onion prices have climbed ₹2 per kilogram, with Solapur and Kurnool varieties now selling for ₹22 and ₹20, respectively. Prices for other vegetables have risen by ₹5 to ₹7 per kilogram, affecting items such as brinjal, okra, beans and leafy greens. Farmers and vendors attribute these increases to disrupted supply chains and crop damage in areas impacted by the cyclone. “Transport delays and field losses have made it harder to source fresh produce,” explained B. Ramesh, a vendor at the MVP rythu bazaar. Farmer G. Shantamma remarked, “We’re trying to keep prices fair, but the impact is real.” Interestingly, tomato prices have defied this trend. G. Prasad, the estate manager of Gopalapatnam rythu bazaar, said proactive procurement by government, which purchased large quantities of tomatoes ahead of the cyclone, has kept tomato prices stabilised. Government-supplied tomatoes are selling at ₹30 per kilogramme, providing some relief to consumers. At some places, tomato prices have even fallen. “I thought tomato prices will increase, but they have actually fallen, while prices of Bendakaya, Agakarakaya, and green leafy vegetables have risen significantly,” said S. Lakshmi, a homemaker from Seethammadhara. Officials assure that this price surge is temporary. Efforts are underway to restore supply lines and stabilise the market. “The government is working with farmers and transporters to ensure smooth flow of goods,” Prasad said. In the interim, seafood prices have gone up sharply following the cyclone, as fishing operations have remained suspended. With fishermen unable to go out to sea due to safety advisories and rough conditions, fresh catches have become scarce, driving prices of fish and prawns to record highs at branded non-vegetarian outlets. Popular varieties, such as Vangiram and tiger prawns, are now retailing at 20–30 per cent above their usual rates, according to local vendors. “We’re getting very limited stock, and most of it is frozen,” said P. Kumar, manager of a seafood outlet in MVP Colony. The scarcity has heavily impacted daily consumers, particularly middle-income households that rely on affordable seafood for protein. “We used to buy fish twice a week; now, even small quantities are unaffordable. Prawns have become a luxury,” N. Priya, a resident of MVP Colony, observed.

Two More Arrested In Visakhapatnam Cricket Betting Racket
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Two More Arrested In Visakhapatnam Cricket Betting Racket

Visakhapatnam: The Visakhapatnam Cyber Crime Police have arrested two more individuals in connection with an ongoing cricket betting racket as part of their crackdown on illegal online gambling operations.The arrests followed an investigation by the Cyber Crime Police Station, acting on a tip-off about betting activities being conducted through unauthorised online platforms, including Exchange666 and BlackDiamond9.com. The accused have been identified as Peyyila Trinadh (23) and Kasireddy Bala Sanjeeva Rao (39), both residents of Achyutapuram mandal in Anakapalli district. They were arrested separately after being kept under surveillance with technical support and have been remanded in judicial custody for seven days. Police also seized mobile phones used for the betting activities. The case, registered as Crime No. 305/2023, has been booked under Sections 419, 420, and 471 read with 120(B) of the Indian Penal Code, Sections 66-C and 66-D of the IT Act (2000–2008), and Sections 3 and 4 of the AP Gaming Act (1974). According to police sources, interrogation of the accused has revealed information about other bookies operating similar betting networks. Special teams have been formed to track and apprehend additional suspects involved in the illegal gambling ring.

Repetition Makes You Stronger
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Repetition Makes You Stronger

For Dr Vimee Bindra, endometriosis surgeon-gynecologist at Apollo Hospitals, mornings begin before the world wakes up. “There’s something magical about early mornings,” she says. “The city is quiet, my phone isn’t buzzing, and I can focus entirely on myself. I tie my hair back, lace up my shoes, and head to the gym — that’s how most of my days begin.” As an endometriosis surgeon, her job demands stamina, focus, and precision. “Hours of standing in the operating room and performing delicate robotic movements test not just your skill but your physical and mental strength,” she says. “To give my best to my patients, I have to take care of my own health first.” Her workouts — a mix of strength training, mobility, and core stability — help her stay surgery-fit. “Robotic surgery requires a strong back, steady hands, and endurance that lasts for hours,” she explains. “I train four to five times a week. It’s my non-negotiable ritual.” She credits her trainer, Samir, for keeping her consistent. “There are mornings I walk in tired after a long surgery, but he reminds me — just one rep at a time. That’s what we do: show up, repeat, get stronger.” That philosophy, she says, mirrors surgery. “A surgeon doesn’t perfect technique overnight. It’s repetition that builds strength and confidence — in the gym and in the OR.” Nutrition and rest are equally vital. “I’ve eliminated sugar from my diet and focus on clean, balanced meals — fresh vegetables, lean proteins, healthy carbs, and hydration,” she says. “And sleep is my secret weapon. Seven hours a night keeps my energy steady and my mind clear.”

IMS Marks Transformative Leap in Governance, Says MLA Palla Srinivasa Rao
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IMS Marks Transformative Leap in Governance, Says MLA Palla Srinivasa Rao

Vijayawada: Telugu Desam State President and Gajuwaka MLA Palla Srinivasa Rao has hailed Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s Real-Time Incident Management System (IMS) as a transformative leap in governance, redefining public grievance redressal in Andhra Pradesh through the integration of technology, speed, and transparency. He stated that Chief Minister Naidu’s vision, coupled with Minister Nara Lokesh’s innovation, represents a future-ready governance model for the nation.Describing the IMS as a revolutionary step in citizen-centric administration, Srinivasa Rao said the new system replaces the traditional Public Grievance Redressal System (PGRS) with a real-time, technology-driven model that ensures immediate government response to citizens’ issues. He added that effective inter-departmental coordination will now be automatic, as every complaint raised at the field level directly reaches the government in real time. Srinivasa Rao explained, “The IMS, operating under the Real-Time Governance Society (RTGS), enables real-time monitoring of issues across districts. For every grievance, the concerned officials — ministers, Secretaries, District Collectors, and Superintendents of Police — will be connected through dedicated IMS WhatsApp groups, which remain active until resolution. Citizens can also track their grievances on the IMS dashboard, ensuring complete transparency and accountability.” The TD State President said the initiative is the result of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s visionary leadership and IT Minister Nara Lokesh’s technological foresight. “Their combined efforts have created a responsive governance model where technology acts as a bridge between the government and the people. Andhra Pradesh is once again setting a benchmark in digital administration,” he remarked. Srinivasa Rao also lauded Minister Lokesh’s role in ensuring coordinated follow-up between departments through digital tools, enabling timely resolution with well-defined accountability. “With systems like RTGS and IMS, Andhra Pradesh is moving from governance to intelligent problem prevention,” he added.

Satya Kumar Urges Public To Maintain Hygiene To Prevent Spread Of Diseases After Cyclone Montha
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Satya Kumar Urges Public To Maintain Hygiene To Prevent Spread Of Diseases After Cyclone Montha

VIJAYAWADA: Minister for health Satya Kumar Yadav has urged people to maintain personal hygiene and keep their surroundings clean to prevent the spread of contagious diseases in the aftermath of Cyclone Montha. Speaking here on Wednesday, the minister advised the public to drink only boiled and filtered water and remain vigilant over the next four days. He said that nearly 2,500 pregnant women in advanced stages of delivery had been shifted to nearby hospitals. Special medical camps have been set up in rehabilitation centres to provide healthcare to those affected by the cyclone. Anti-snake venom, anti-rabies vaccine, and other emergency medicines have been stocked in district hospitals based on requirements. In addition, boat clinics have been deployed in fishermen’s colonies, along with 108 and 104 ambulances. He noted that 99.1 per cent of doctors and health staff reported for duty as per the newly issued standard operating procedures of the health department. The minister appreciated Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu for initiating a series of proactive measures, drawing upon his vast experience in disaster management, to ensure there was no major loss of life or property in the state. He added that the instructions issued from the RTGS—from the state level down to the village level—yielded effective results in tackling the cyclone.

Tamil Nadu: Pre-Test for Census 2027 to Start in November
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Tamil Nadu: Pre-Test for Census 2027 to Start in November

Chennai: Three Census Charges - Anchetty Taluk in Krishnagiri District (Rural),∙ Part of R.K. Pet Taluk in Thiruvallur District (Rural) and Mangadu Municipality in Kancheepuram District (Urban) - have been selected in Tamil Nadu for the Pre-Test for Census of India, 2027, an official press release said on Wednesday.The Pre-Test was an essential preparatory exercise conducted before every decennial Census and was designed to evaluate the concepts, procedures, questionnaires and digital tools proposed for the main Census operations, the release said. The findings from the Pre-Test would help identify and address potential operational challenges before the nationwide rollout of Census 2027, which will be India’s first fully digital Census, the release said, adding that the State Directorate of Census Operations would closely coordinate with the Government for the smooth conduct of the Pre-Test, including professional guidance, training, and supervision. Conducted by the Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, in select sample areas across all States and Union Territories, the Pre-Test data will be collected using mobile applications. The entire operation would be managed and monitored through the Census Management and Monitoring System (CMMS) Portal, a web-based platform developed for real time supervision and progress tracking, release said. The Pre-Test for the first phase of the Census, House listing and Housing Census, will be conducted from November 10 to 30 with an option for Self-Enumeration from November 1 to 7. The Pre-Test represented a vital step toward refining the operational framework, digital workflows, and training modules, aimed at ensuring greater accuracy, efficiency, and readiness for the Census 2027 operations, the release said.

VMC Sets Up 41 Relief Camps As Cyclone Montha Batters Vijayawada
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VMC Sets Up 41 Relief Camps As Cyclone Montha Batters Vijayawada

VIJAYAWADA: As heavy rains triggered by Cyclone Montha lashed Vijayawada, the Municipal Corporation swung into action with large-scale relief and safety measures. City mayor Rayana Bhagyalakshmi said that a total of 41 rehabilitation centres have been set up across the city’s three Assembly constituencies for residents of hilly and vulnerable areas. According to figures available on Wednesday, 349 residents have taken shelter at these centres — 178 in Circle-I, 115 in Circle-II, and 53 in Circle-III. The mayor stated that the corporation is fully committed to supporting those affected by the rains. Each relief camp has been equipped with toilets and round-the-clock medical assistance provided through the District Medical and Health Office. Many residents are taking meals at these centres, while some are staying overnight. VMC commissioner H.M. Dhyanachandra said that civic teams are working continuously to ensure that rainwater does not stagnate on the roads. High-powered air-tech machines, gulpers, oil engines, and motor pumps are being deployed across Bhavanipuram, Governorpet, Surya Rao Peta, Jammichettu Centre, Prasadampadu, and other low-lying areas. Four pump sets have been stationed near the Government Hospital in Governorpet to prevent flooding and ensure unhindered access for patients. The commissioner added that silt removal from drains and desilting of outfall channels are being carried out on a war footing. Around 93 uprooted trees were cleared from city roads following Tuesday night’s gales, and more than 500 people were shifted to safer locations. During a field visit, Dhyanachandra inspected Bandar Road, Loyola College Road, Eluru Road, Bharathi Nagar, and Fortune Murali Park areas. He directed officials to remove fallen trees immediately and instructed monsoon response teams to remain on high alert across the city.