Change of Command at INS Circars

Commodore G Vinod Babu, VSM, handed over the Command of INS Circars to Commodore SM Anwer at an impressive Ceremonial Parade held at the Circars Parade ground today, 29 Feb 12. After the completion of Ceremonial Parade, the outgoing Commanding Officer was given farewell by the Officers and men of INS Circars through traditional Pulling out Ceremony.

INS Circars is the base depot ship providing administrative and Logistics support to the Headquarters, Eastern Naval Command and large number of units based at Visakhapatnam. Commodore SM Anwer, who will be the twenty first Commanding Officer of INS Circars, is a Naval Aviator. He is a graduate from the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington and has undergone the Naval Higher Command Course. He has Commanded three war ships and one Naval Air Squadron. He was Director Aircraft Acquisition at the Integrated Headquarters, Ministry of Defence (Navy). Prior to taking over the Command of INS Circars, he was the Command Aviation Officer at the Headquarters, Eastern Naval command.

Commodore GV Babu, who has served as the Commanding Officer of INS Circars close to six years, retires from Navy after 35 years of distinguished and illustrious career that included several prestigious appointments including the command of three war ships, Nipat, Gharial and Shakti, Fleet Operations Officer of Eastern Fleet, Chief Staff Officer (Operations) of Southern Naval Command and Defence Advisor to High Commissioner of India, Colombo. He will be settling down at Visakhapatnam post retirement.

Vidya Sree Scheme

Good response received for the GVMC's "Vidya Sree" Scheme. As part of this scheme GVMC has been inviting donors for financial support to the financially backward students of GVMC who had acquired high percentage of marks in SSC for their higher studies. In a press meet held at Sai Sindhu Campus of Sri Chaitanya, Mr. A.N. Krishnan DGM of State Bank of India handed over a cheque of Rs.1.05 lakhs and Mr. Gopala Krishna Murthy, P. Narasimha Rao of Pawan Builders handed over a cheque Rs.70 thousand to the principal of Sri Chaitanya College towards education of seven poor students of their College.

Bandh peaceful in the city

The Bandh call given by all the nine Left Parties and Trade Unions on Tuesday with a demand to fulfil the basic needs of employees working in the public sector and private industries throughout the Nation. For the first time in the history of the country, all sections of the Trade Unions completely particiapted in the strike. Buses stalled their services for most of the day. All the banks remained closed in the city. The strike was called on with a demand to implement uniform labour laws, control of prices of essential commodities and implementation of minimum wages act. Industries at Gajuwaka, Autonagar, Steel Plant, etc were shut down on Tuesday. During the course activists of various Trade Unions held a "rasta rokho" and human chain at the prime locations. Some of them were taken into custody by the city police. Police have deputed more security officials at all the five bus depots, i.e. Waltair, Maddilapalem, Steel Plant, Gajuwaka and Simhachalam, in the city.

All India Strike:

All Trade Unions of India went on one day strike in the city from today morning in protest of rising prices, disinvestment of profit-making PSUs, violation of labor laws and other issues. Major trade unions like CITU, AITUC, HMS, BMS held rally against the price hike and disinvestment of profit-making PSUs at the RTC Junction opp. to GVMC. All the shops, establishments and educational institutions remained closed. Auto-rickshaws and other transportation were stalled for the major part of the day. APSRTC in support with old staff had run some buses.

Depute more security at ATMs : CP

Mr. J. Purnachandra Rao, Commissioner of Police advised the bankers to depute more security at the ATM counters in the district. Addressing a session held for various bank officials at the Commissionerate on Monday, he said that recently the city police have arrested few gangs comprising of ATM thieves. All these incidents held due to lapse of proper security inside the counters. He further advised the people to take more care during their transaction at the ATM counters. Do not allow strangers into ATM counter during transaction and not to leave the transaction slips after the completion of work. Later, he demonstrated few thefting incidents at some of the ATM counters. Officials from State Bank of India, State Bank of Hyderabad, HDFC, ICICI, ING Vysya, Kotak Mahindra and other banks were present.

Trade Unions ready for Nation wide strike on Feb 28

The Trade Unions of various public and private sectors are getting ready for the nation wide strike scheduled for February 28 ie on Tuesday. Most of the unions in the city including Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, Visakhapatnama Port Trust, PSUs like Banks, insurance, CITU, AITUC, HMS, BMS and others are taking part in this strike in protest of rising prices, disinvestment of profit-making PSUs, violation of labor laws and other issues. All these unions started campaigning for the past two months to create awareness among the employees. Trade sections of left parties have conducted a human chain in this regard at Maddilapalem Junction on Monday. According to a financial analyst our country may loose crores of rupees because of this strike.

GVMC council tenure concluded

Special officer ruling in action

The first session of the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) council completed its tenure of five years by Saturday. During the term the first council, which survived by 72 members, could not achieve any major tasks. The property tax was hiked and evaction of weaker sections from the city were done during this tenure. Currently Mr. Lav Agarwal, District Collector has been appointed as a special officer for GVMC which comprises of Collector also. This committee doesn't have much power to sanction new projects but some old projects were started in the last week and most of the corporators have utilised this opportunity by laying foundation stones at their wards. Projects worth crores of rupees were sanctioned for ruling and opposition party members. About 14 corporators who have joined YSR Congress party were left behind by the ruling party in this regard.

GVMC Commissioner inspected Rajiv Smrithi Bhavan and Sub Way Works:

In view of Chief Minister's visit to Vizag on Saturday, i.e. 26-02-2012, GVMC Commissioner inspected the works going on at Rajeev Smrithi Bhavan and Sub-way. Chief Minister will inaugurate Sub-way during his visit. Commissioner suggested to build a water fountain inside the building of Rajeev Smrithi Bhavan and to arrange Shri Rajeev Gandhi photos in an order inside the building.

Sparkling start to diamond show

Malabar Gold showroom in the city on Thursday launched Mine Diamond Show at its premises.
Film actor Tapasi Pannu inaugurated the show which will continue till March 11 displaying exquisite diamond jewellery offering unlimited choice in bridal, solitaire, everyday light weight, men's and platinum diamond jewellery.
The customers also could avail of free maintenance of jewellery as well as special prices during the exhibition period, according to store director Shiras (8008500916).
The main attraction at the show is a designer necklace created by international designer Reena Thakur.
The necklace is studded with as many as 2,345 diamonds with a diamond weight of 196 carts and gold weight of 357 gm.
The diamond jewellery on display came from Mine Assurance of EFVVS diamonds with IGI (International Gemmological Institute) certification, lifetime free maintenance and 100 per cent buy back guarantee and free insurance, Mr. Shiras said.
The showroom is set up in three levels with vast collections and one level is dedicated to reputed brands and sub-brands.

GVMC Commissioner met Mr. Yellaiah

GVMC Commissioner met Mr. Yellaiah, M.P., Rajyasabha and Member of Railway Advisory Board and TTD Chairaman, Mr. Kanumuri Bapi Raju as a gesture at the Hotel and explained them the various activities taken by the GVMC for Green Visakha such as No-Vehicle Zone, Cycle Zone and No Motor-Vehicle Day etc.

Interaction with Women Groups held

GVMC Commissioner held meeting with Than Foundation and Feration Facilitators regarding re-payment of the loans received from banks to the Women Groups. Speaking on this occasion, Mr. B. Ramanjaneyulu, GVMC Commissioner asked the groups to clear the loans in time which facilitates bankers to sanction loans for the Groups in future without waiting for the clearance from other sources. Mr.Madhu Kumar, Reprsentative from Than Foundation, said that till now under the guidance of Than Foundation around one-million women in about Seven States have joined Self Help Groups and started saving money. In Vizag there are 1600 Groups with 25000 women members.

Save city from pollution

'Movement for People Centred Development' held an agitation at the District Collectorate with a demand to save the city from Industrial Pollution on Tuesday.
Mr. JV Ratnam, head of the organisation, demanded that the Government and the State Pollution Control Board (PCB) take action against chemical industries which are releasing pollution and waste in huge amounts resulting in various ailments. Vizag has become one of the most polluted cities in the country and people's representatives including Union and State Ministers in Visakhapatnam have failed to rectify this longstanding problem, he added. Residents of Kotha Veedhi, an affected area, recently held a huge rally but the district administration failed to take up the issue. Mr. Ratnam stated that future rallies would be more intense and vocal.

Asian Cities Adapt

Impact of climate Change in target Cities in India and Philippines and Local adaptation Strategies

2nd city workshop and Stake holder Meeting

Howra Muncipal Corporation

Proceedings:

Meeting started by lightening the lamp by Howra Muncipal Corporation Mayor Mrs.Mamata Jaswal and other dignataries like Dy Mayor,Ex Mayor of Koch, Commissioner of GVMC Mr.Ramanjaneyulu, Executive engineer from Madurai city and Europian delegates Mr.Jorgon and Ms.Barbara and scientific community from IIT Dehi Mr.Dash. Later HMC mayor gave welcoming address to all participants by saying about the Howra city and challenges facing, also she shared the initiatives taken by the corporation on climate changes. Later GVMC Commissioner Mr.Ramanjaneyulu addressed the workshop by sharing the initiatives taken by the GVMC like vehicle free zones, cycling zones, promotion of public transport by coming every Monday either walk/cycle or by means of public transport not by their own vehicles and planting of 40 lakh saplings in the city in his initial remarks. Later he had presented in detail what are the strategies are following by the GVMC through local action are 1.Energy efficiency in buildings, street lighting, water pumping stations 2.Solid waste Management 3.Transportation –BRTS and Fleet management through SPVs 4.sewage treatment plants 5.Renwwable energy technologies 6.Low Carbon mobility plans 7.Slum clearance and housing for urban poor under Ray ,after that one short film played on the initiatives taken by the GVMC.
Other project cities Howra, Kochin and Madurai representatives presented the status of activities has been taken in their cities. Also workshop discussed about technical things like what are the changes happened in rain fall and temperature based on the past data and also projections on the future how would be the changes in the world and project cities. Along with municipal administration other stake holders from CII,IIT, Scientific community and NGos like DHAN Foundation participated. Workshop ended with action plan for similar workshops in other cities and base line development, strategy finalization action plan endorsed by council and implementation.

Kumbhabhishekam held at Siva temples

On the occasion of Mahasivaratri, a large number of devotees thronged Shiva temples in the city including those in Old town, Kailasagiri, Rishikonda, since early morning in city on Monday.

Mr. T. Subbarami Reddy, MP (Rajya Sabha) offered Mahakumbhabhishekam to a Mega Shivalingam at Ramakrishna beach and invited Vizagites to participate in the rituals. About ten thousand devotees took up this offer.

Many of the devotees stayed up the whole the night and had a dip in the sea the next day, as per tradition. Many of the temples held cultural shows and devotional concerts in the evening.

A friendly cricket match by RINL with railways

As a bold initiative to promote sports with business, RINL, Visakhapatnam Steel Plant today conducted a “Friendly Twenty 20 Cricket Match” between DRM (Waltair Division) ECO Railway-XI V/s Director (Commercial) RINL – XI at Ukku Stadium. The match witnessed overwhelming response from the sports fraternity not only from Ukkunagaram but also from the neighbouring areas.

The Chief Guest, Sri AP Choudhary, CMD, RINL inaugurated the match by releasing of colourful “Business Partner Balloons” to mark the event amidst applause from Sri N Kasinath, DRM, Waltair Division, ECO Railway, who was the Guest of Honour. Both the teams were introduced by the respective captains – Sri Kasinath and Sri TK Chand to the Chief Guest. The Railways emerged victorious and annexed the trophy by scoring 140 runs for five wickets in 20 overs. RINL satisfied with runners up trophy by scoring 109 runs by losing 8 wickets in 20 overs. The team spirit of both the teams were acknowledged largely by the spectators. Earlier, the Railways Captain, Sri Kasinath, DRM won the toss and elected to bat.

Sri AP Choudhary, CMD thanked the Railway authorities for their continuous support towards RINL’s growth. Sri P Madhusudan, Director (Finance) emerged as Best all rounder of the match.

Pulse pollo immunisation campaign undertaken at ENC

Pulse Polio Immunisation Programme (PPI) was conducted by the Station Health Organisation, Visakhapatnam under the aegis of Headquarters, Eastern Naval Command today, 19 Feb 12. PPI is a nationwide immunisation initiative by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare aimed at eradicating Polio from the country. Mrs. Reena Lanba of Navy Wives Welfare Association (Eastern Region) inaugurated the Campaign at the Family Clinic, Nausena Baugh, by disbursing the first few drops of the vaccine.

As a part of the Campaign, 100% immunisation is being carried out at Military Stations as well as along with civil areas. SHO (V) has set up a total of 20 Polio Booths for immunising the children of naval personnel, Defence civilians and civilians residing in the area. The booth immunisation will be followed up with house to house visit on 20- 21 Feb and a repeat round of immunisation on 01 Apr 12. A total of 3500 children were vaccinated in the present round of pulse polio.

Move together as “AN ARMY” to achieve higher growth: RINL CMD to employees

Today, RINL, the holding Company of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, the pride of Andhra Pradesh and originated from the famous slogan “Viskha Ukku – Andhrula Hakku”, celebrated its 31st Formation Day at Ukkunagaram with pomp and enthusiasm. VSP collective paid rich tributes by observing one minute silence to the people who sacrificed their lives for the setting up of a Steel Plant at Vizag.

Speaking on the occasion, Sri AP Choudhary, CMD, RINL, Visakhapatnam Steel Plant said that employees determination and contribution saw RINL grown from strength to strength and appealed to the employees to move together as an Army with a single agenda of growth and only growth since Vizag Steel is doubling its capacity to 6.3 MTPA. Today RINL stands with pride as a steel maker in the country because of the positive attitude and work culture of the employees which has greatly contributed for the success of the organization. Sri Choudhary said that RINL is widely recognized as a Company par excellence and there is a bounden duty on every one to take the organization to greater heights not only in the country but across the globe. CMD outlined that there is every need to exhibit extra ordinary commitment and dedication to ensure that the new units are commissioned safely and stabilized quickly to realize the desired benefits.

63 employees both executives and non-executives who were shown outstanding contribution and performance in their work areas, were honored by presenting the prestigious Jawaharlal Nehru (JN) Awards by Sri AP Choudhary, CMD amidst applause of the employees and their family members. While congratulating the JN Award winners, Sri Choudhary advocated that the productivity to be enhanced, generate more wealth from waste, reduce energy costs and perform in most cost effective manner. Sri Umesh Chandra, Director (Operations), Sri P Madhusudan, Director (Finance), Sri TK Chand, Director (Commercial), Sri YR Reddy, Director (Personnel) given away ECO Awards to school children of Ukkunagaram on the occasion.

Representatives of SEA, unions, associations and large number of employees and their family members attended. Several cultural programmes were organized to mark the Formation Day celebrations at the sprawling Trishna grounds in Ukkunagaram in the evening.

GVMC demanded fee from Master Signal Operators

In a meeting held between Master Signal Operators and GVMC Officials, GVMC Commissioner ordered the M.S.Os to pay charges to GVMC towards in-appropriate placing of cable poles in the city. He also ordered them to use only the ducts build by the GVMC for cables.

City gearing up for Shivaratri

Bay city is gearing up for the celebrations of Shivaratri- most auspicious day for Hindus is scheduled on February 20. Temples of Lord Shiva in the city are offering special rituals and abhishekams throughout the day till night. All the necessary arrangements are in progress at the noted temples at Rishikonda, Old city, Dasapalla Junction, Ramalingeswara Temple, Sankara Muth, etc. Mr. T. Subbarami Reddy, MP (Rajya Sabha) is organising Mahakunbhabhishekam at Ramakrishna Beach on the occasion of Shivaratri. All the devotees are invited to take part in it. Special abhishekams will be offered to a huge shiva lingam designed by 1.08 crore small shiva lingams at the beach. Mr. Reddy is organising this tradition for the past 27 years. The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) runs number of buses on the occasion of Shivaratri in the district.
Devotees will have holi dip in the sea on the next day of Shivaratri. Marine security were beefed up to protect the devotees at the beaches.

Naval Unmanned Aerial Vehicle crashes at Visakhapatnam

An Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) of the Navy that was on a routine mission crashed into a hill side opposite the Hanuman Temple in Gajuwaka area of the city yesterday. There has been no loss to life or property reported. An Inquiry has been ordered to look into the circumstances leading to the crash.

Commissioner addressing in Slum Advisory Committee meeting

A meeting with the Indira Colony slum dwellers and officials was conducted in the Conference hall of GVMC by the Municipal Commisioner. Indira Colony slum dwellers asked for constructing of houses on Govt. scheme at the present location of the colony. Commissioner said that they can provide upto 24 houses only at the current location.

Erramatti Dibbalu

There is palpable concern over the disappearance of ‘Erramatti Dibbalu' (red sand hills), which used to be a prominent topographical feature along the beach road between Visakhapatnam and Bheemunipatnam. These quaternary red sand dunes are visible now only near INS Kalinga, with the rest giving way to construction activity, and the effort to conserve the structures that have archaeological, scientific, ecological, historical importance took shape at a two-day programme that began at Andhra University on Wednesday.
Department of Geology of AU and local chapter of INTACH are organising the programme, sponsored by the Central Government's Department of Earth Sciences with many other organisations supporting it.
Mayor P. Janardhana Rao, who inaugurated the national workshop and brain storming session on the urgent need for protecting the geologically significant late quaternary red sand dunes, said that the Erramatti Dibbalu, were a great boon to the city which was endowed with natural beauty. The government must play a major role in their protection, he said.
Municipal Commissioner B. Ramanjaneyulu said Visakhapatnam was lucky to have these structures and assured that Erramatti Dibbalu would be introduced in the syllabus in GVMC schools since the children have a lot of role to play.
Noted writer and film actor Gollapudi Maruthi Rao wanted the protection of Erramatti Dibbalu be in the form of an agitation. It was a unique aspect of Visakhapatnam and should not be destroyed. He gave several examples like Shakespeare's properties being conserved and India too must adopt similar policy of protecting its age old monuments and structures like Erramatti Dibbalu.
Earlier former HoDs of Geology and Anthropology of AU R. Vaidyanadhan and K. Thimma Reddy explained to the students the need to protect the red sand hills. Prof. Thimma Reddy said the red sand hills explained the history of man, climate conditions and changes in climate. He wanted the children to ask the local governments to protect such structures. Prof. Vaidyanadhan said the red sand hills were a natural phenomenon. A hill would remain the same over centuries but the Erramatti Dibbalu were lose sediments that were standing there for thousands of years, he told the children.
Ms. Rani Sharma, Convener, Vizag Chapter requested the participants to extend their support to INTACH to protect our culture and tradition. INTACH is working on various projects including heritage. She thanked the future generation from various schools for participating, academia for suggestions, officials for extending their support at the seminar.
Dr. D. Rajasekhar Reddy, University counterpart, explained the formation procedure of Red Sand Dunes as per the scientific evidences. He further stated that, number of researches were done on the same issue over fifty years. It became a natural laboratory for Andhra University students, he added. He advised all the Vizagites to visit the spot at least once.
Advisor to Ministry of Earth Sciences M. Sudhakar released a souvenir on this occasion.

All varsities student convention on Feb 25

Student Federation of India (SFI) is organising a three day All varsities Student Convention from February 25, announced Mr. N. Sankara Rao, president, District wing of SFI on Tuesday. Speaking to newsmen, he said that current burning topics of present education system, release of scholarships at regular basis, technical education, etc will be discussed over there. This convention will be held at the TLN Sabha Hall, Andhra University. Dr. K. Nageswara Rao, MLC, Mr. MVS Sarma, MLC and many more will be attending the session to discuss the present day education stream. Participants from various Universities will take part in it. He further stated that SFI is encouraging students during their academic sessions by conducting awareness camps and necessary training. Dr. M. Prasada Rao, Economics (Andhra Unviersity) also present at the conference.

Eastern Naval command Scholarships award for defence civilians

The Eastern Naval Command awards scholarships to the children of Defence Civilian employees for their meritorious performance in Matriculation, Intermediate examination and various entrance examinations every year. This year in continuation of this encouraging tradition, 27 meritorious children were awarded scholarship by Rear Admiral T Sudhakar, Chief Staff Officer, Headquarters Eastern Naval Command on 13 February 2012 in a function organized at Headquarters Eastern Naval Command at Naval Base, Visakhapatnam.

MLA East - Velagapudi Ramakrishna Babu laid foundation to the construction of Community Hall at Thotagaruvu as part of ward development scheme.

GVMC Commissioner participated in the Cancer Walk on the Beach Road conducted as a part of ongoing ISMPO all-India conference on Indian cancers and Indian solutions.

Impliment Innovative Ideas for Development

Sri AP Choudhary, CMD, RINL interacted with the Management Trainees joined in August, 2011. These trainees were posted to key areas of the plant.
Sri Choudhary stressed the need of new recruits in accelerating the expansion activities. He suggested to upgrade their knowledge through book reading and implement innovative ideas for the development of steel industry.
The trainees have presented cultural events . Dignitaries appreciated the song "Lakshya of MTs" which covered the mission and goal of the organization.
Sri Umesh Chandra, Director(Operations), Sri YR Reddy, Director (Pers), Sri DK Singh, Commandent, CISF, Executive Directors and General Managers have attended the cultural nite. Sri Radha Krishna, General Manager (Trg & HRD) has delivered the welcome address. Training department had made the necessary arrangement for organizing the event.

Bhrama Kumaris to conduct Yogi Kethi on Feb 12

Brahma kumaris Organisation is organising a one day seminar on Permanent Yogi Kethi to educate local farmers through an exhibition on February 12, according Brahma Kumari Veni. Speaking to newsmen on Friday at VJF Press club, this session is going to be held as part of their Platinum Jubilee celebrations. During the session, agricultural scientists will demonstrate the process of getting good result with less effort, she added. It had given good results in Gujarat and lot of improvement in growth through adapting yogi kethi method. The session will be held at Lankela Palem junction. Seminar is going to focus inculcate about new method of agriculture. The programme is going to inaugurate by honorable minister for human resource Ms. D. Purandhareswari, Minister of State for Human Development, Mr. Ganta Srinivas, Minister for Infrastructure, Mr. K. Chiranjeevi, MLA- Tirupati and many more to join the inaugural session, she mentioned.

Community Hall at 7th ward opened

MLA East - Velagapudi Ramakrishna Babu opened Community Hall in Lawsons Bay Colony, 7th Ward. He also opened Fish Market at Vasavanipalem, Jalari Yendada constructed with the MP funds.

Babu demands Cong to quit

Mr. N. Chandra Babu Naidu, chief, Telugudesam Party demands the Congress Party to quit power on Wednesday in Visakhapatnam. Inaugurating at the first youth convention of Yuva Tarangalu here, he lamented the Government for the involvement in the liquor syndicate scam. He also demanded for sacking of Mr. Mopidevi Venkata Ramana, Minister for Excise from the cabinet as he had involved in the liquor scam.
Teludesam seeks action on big wigs involved in this scam within no time, he added. About ten thousand delegates from East Godavari, Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram and Srikakulam districts were present at the Yuva Tarangalu, held at the Sarada Gardens. TDP welcomed suggestions from the delegates for the progress of the party. Earlier, Mr. Chandrababu garlanded the statue of Dr. BR Ambedkar at LIC junction in the morning and rode a bike marking the inauguration of bike rally.
Mr. D. Veerabhadra Rao, MLC, Mr. V. Ramakrishna Babu, MLA- Visakha East, Mr. Ch. Ayyannapatrudu, MLAs, MLCs, MPs and other youngsters from various locations were present.

Dial Your Commissioner

GVMC Commisioner conducted "Dial your Commissioner" programme on Wednesday. Speaking to the GVMC officials, he pressed the need of solving the problems received earlier through the "Dial your Commissioner" and "Grievances" programmes.

Representatives are remembered by virtue of their good deeds: Minister

Minister for Ports, Industries and Infrastructures Mr. Ganta Srinivas Rao inaugurated the 60 feet road widening works abetween Nakkavanipalem and NH5. Speaking on this occasion, minister said that people's representatives are remembered by virtue of their good deeds done to the public. He also mentioned that the expenditure for the road works is estimated as 2 Crores.

Vibhav Chairman found dead:

Mr.Grandhi Manoj Kumar, Chairman of Vaibhav Empire and Vaibhav Jewellery found dead in the forest area near Bangalore on Wednesday. Earlier he was kidnapped from the Bangalore Airport on Tuesday by some unidentified persons. After vigorous search by the police he was found dead in the out skirts of Bangalore City. He was in possession of gold and diamond jewellery worth Rs 3 crore when he went missing. Police sources say that the murder was done after robbing him off the jewellery. Vaibhav Jewellery and V-Square in the city remained closed on account of his sadly demise. Sources say that his body will reach the city by Thursday morning after completing post-mortem at Bangalore.

Distribution of Mosquito Nets in Tribal Welfare Ashram Schools

RINL/VSP under its CSR initiative, had been undertaking a lot of service activities in the RH Colonies and Surrounding villages of VSP. In addition to this, VSP is also extending its CSR activities to the Tribal areas of Visakhapatnam district, especially in Health and Education related areas.
RINL/VSP had distributed 3134 nos. of Mosquito nets in 20 Tribal Welfare Ashram Schools located in 9 Tribal mandals of Visakhapatnam district in the month of January,2012 which help the tribal students in continuing their education by warding off any mosquito menace and related sickness. The Mosquito nets were distributed in the presence of ITDA Officials and RINL/VSP Officials to the School authorities and beneficiaries. RINL/VSP Officials S/Sri G.Madhava Rao,DGM(CSR),A.V.Rangantha, DGM(Finance), V.Tirupathi Rao,Sr.Manager(Personnel), Ch.Mruthyunjaya Rao, Manager(CSR) along with Sri P.J.S.N.Patnaik, Asst.Tribal Welfare Officer,Ananthagiri and Sri Ramulu, Head Master of the School attended the Programme.
Sri G.Madhava Rao, DGM(CSR) and Sri A.V.Ranganatha, DGM(Finance) while addressing the gathering said that RINL-VSP had been giving overriding priority to development of community and serving the society in its corporate plans under CSR. They also hoped that the students will benefit and it will help them in pursuit of their studies. Sri Patnaik, Asst.Tribal Welfare Officer, Ananthagiri mandal expressed his sincere thanks to VSP Management for granting Mosquito nets to the Tribal students which could help them during the period of study in the School.
Teludesam seeks action on big wigs involved in this scam within no time, he added. About ten thousand delegates from East Godavari, Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram and Srikakulam districts were present at the Yuva Tarangalu, held at the Sarada Gardens. TDP welcomed suggestions from the delegates for the progress of the party. Earlier, Mr. Chandrababu garlanded the statue of Dr. BR Ambedkar at LIC junction in the morning and rode a bike marking the inauguration of bike rally.
Mr. D. Veerabhadra Rao, MLC, Mr. V. Ramakrishna Babu, MLA- Visakha East, Mr. Ch. Ayyannapatrudu, MLAs, MLCs, MPs and other youngsters from various locations were present.

40 Shops at beach removed

About forty temporary shops were removed by the authorities of Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) on Tuesday at the Ramakrishna beach. According to the sources, a resolution was passed at the counsel session on Monday to clear all the constructions at the beach for the beautification of the beach road. All these shops belongs to various articles made up of shells over decades. All of a sudden these GVMC crew visited this location and ordered to clear all of them. Vendors raised slogans against the authorities and local corporator. They had pointed out the local body to provide proper location for their business. Most of the vendors were not present during the removal process. Officials ordered them to clear the temporary constructions at the beach immediately.

Babu in action to strenghten TDP

Mr. Chandra Babu Naidu is concentrating on youth to strengthen the Telugu Desam Party by conducting separate sessions in the name of Yuvotsavams throughout the State. The first of such session is going to be held in Vizag on Wednesday. He is keen about the more enrollments from youth and realising all his mistakes that were made during his tenure as the Chief Minister of this State. He will arrive at Vizag by 8.30am, joins the party session by 10 am and addresses the party cadre till evening. About ten thousand delegates are expected to attend the sessions from East Godavari, Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram and Srikakulam districts. He had a target to regain the power as soon possible. More number of promises would reach the party cadre during his speech. City cadre is busy in making all the necessary arrangements.

Raksha mantri witness Naval exercises at sea

Honourable Raksha Mantri, Shri AK Anthony arrived Visakhapatnam today, 07 Feb 12 for a Day at Sea onboard the warships of the Indian Navy, comprising both Eastern and Western Fleets, off Visakhapatnam on 07-08 Feb 12. He was accompanied by Admiral Nirmal Verma, PVSM, AVSM, ADC, Chief of Naval Staff. He was received on arrival at INS Dega by Vice Admiral Anil Chopra, AVSM, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command.
The Honourable Minister visited the indigenous stealth frigate INS Shivalik at sea and is scheduled to spend the night onboard the Aircraft Carrier INS Viraat. Shri AK Anthony will witness the entire gamut of Naval operations including Missile and Rocket Firings, Air Power Demonstration, Interceptor missions involving Fighter Aircraft of the Navy and the Air Force and several evolutions like Underway Replenishment, Multi Ship Jackstay and Combat Freefall. The Raksha Mantri will also interact with Officers and Men of the Indian Navy onboard the Fleet Ships.
Ships, Submarines, Aircraft and Unmanned Aerial vehicles of the Indian Navy, Ships and Aircraft of the Indian Coast Guard and the Indian Air Force are scheduled to take part in an exercise codenamed ‘Tropex 2012,’ commencing off Visakhapatnam. The major annual exercise is aimed at testing the Navy’s preparedness in dealing with contingencies.

AMA anniversary on Feb 8
Music maestros to perform in city

Andhra Music Academy is celebrating its 12th anniversary on February 8. On this occasion, they are organising number concerts at Kalabharathi from Feb 8 to 14. According to the sources, Music Maestros like Kumaresh- Ganesh, Haripriya- Shanmukha Priya, Seshachary- Raghavachary would be presenting their show on the dias on each day. AMA is presenting Nada Vidya Nidhi to renoun violinist Dwaram Manga Tayaru of Dwaram family on the inaugural day, Natya Vidya Nidhi to famous Kuchipudi dancer Dr. Uma Rama Rao on the same dias. Ms. Manda Sudharani (Vizag) - vocal concert on February 8, followed by Priya sisters (Chennai) - vocal on the next day. Pandit Jayateerth Mevundi (Hubli) - Hindustani vocal on Feb 10, Hyderabad brothers - vocal on Feb 11. After long time violin mastreos Kumaresh- Ganesh performing their concert in Vizag on Feb 12. Mr. G. Jayawanth Naidu playing Guitar on Feb 13. On the final day, Mr. P. Balaji will show talent on flute followed by a Kuchipudi dance ballet Mandakini by noted kuchipudi dancer Ms. Alekhya P.

General body meeting of veterans sailors forum held at ENC

A General Body Meeting of Veteran Sailors Forum (VSF), under the aegis of Headquarters, Eastern Naval Command, was conducted at the Sailors Institute today, 05 Feb 12. Rear Admiral T Sudhakar, NM, Chief Staff Officer (Personnel and Administration) and President VSF chaired the meeting. Large number of retired sailors and widows of Naval personnel from Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada Associate Chapters attended the Meeting.
Speaking on the occasion, Rear Admiral Sudhakar highlighted the various focused attention areas to the members on the welfare with particular attention to health related issues. He intimated the veterans that the Shankar Eye Foundation (Shankar Netralaya), Visakhapatnam has been empanelled in the list of ECHS, Visakhapatnam for the benefit of the VSF members. The President added further that the Indo-American Cancer Institute, Hyderabad has been empanelled and the veteran cancer patients can now be referred directly to the Cancer Institute from the Polyclinic at Visakhapatnam. In addition, efforts are underway to empanel Mahatma Gandhi Cancer Hospital and Research Institute as well as Smile Care and SS Dental Hospitals at Visakhapatnam.
The Meeting proved to be an ideal platform for sharing and dissemination of information. The forum assured assistance to all needy and to those involved in charitable and social causes.

33rd All India Steel Medical Officers Conference-2012 Concluded

The 3-day long 33rd All India Steel Medical Officers Conference-2012 (AISMOC-2012) was concluded today at Center for HRD, Visakhapatnam Steel Plant.
Sri. AP Choudhary, Chairman-cum-Managing Director, RINL, VSP Chief Guest of the today’s Valedictory Function of AISMOC-2012 urged the Steel Medical fraternity to conduct in-depth studies of the Work-related diseases and their prevention. Sri. Choudhary emphasized the need for combating stress at work and expressed his concern over improvements in employee customer satisfaction. He lauded the efforts of Medical department of VSP and congratulated the Organizing Committee for successfully organizing the conference. He appreciated all delegates for their active participation in the conference.
While speaking on the occasion Sri. Umesh Chandra, Director (Operations), VSP emphasized the need for introducing new techniques and procedures in Periodical Medical Examination of workers to ensure highest level of health for every worker. He also said that this kind of seminars helps to share the best practices and knowledge amongst the medical fraternity which helps society.
During the 3 days Seminar 43 Scientific Papers, 15 Posters, 6 Guest Lectures and 2 Symposiums were presented by the Eminent Medical professionals. Around 86 Delegates from all over India participated.
The papers ‘The efficacy of Ormeloxifene in mastalgia of various origins’ presented by Dr.G Sujatha, and "Employee health records management – an innovative approach" submitted by Dr. KV Lakshman Rao, VSP were well appreciated by one and all.
The Heads of Medical Departments of all Steel Plants of Bhilai, Burnpur, TATA, Durgapur, Bokaro, Rourkela, Salem, Bhadravathi, Chandrapur, Mecon , SAIL etc., were expressed their happiness and congratulated the RINL,VSP team for their unstinted efforts in making the conference and their stay memorable at VSP.
It was decided by the Heads of Medical departments of all plants that the XXXIV AISMOC will be hosted by Bhilai Steel Plant during Feb.2013.
Dr.M.K.Tripathy, Org. Chairman welcomed the Chief Guest & the delegates for the Valedictory function. Dr.A.Patnaik, Org. Secretary gave a report on the three-days’ proceedings. Vote of Thanks was proposed by Dr. Maturi Sreenivas of VSGH, VSP.

Industries to grow more
Ganta to construct a star hotel

Pratyusha Group of Industries is entering into Hotel services, announced its Chairman and Minister for Ports, Industries and Infrastructures Mr. Ganta Srinivas Rao. Responding to the felication ceremony on Sunday at Hotel Daspalla, he said that hotel industry is providing good services to the tourists from all over the globe with constructive commitments. Vizag being one of the fastest growing cities in Asia is welcoming number of industrialists to accommodate. The State Government is taking necessary steps to provide more provisions to young enterpreneurs in this regard. Main motto is for Development of the city without destruction, he added.International air connectivity is an added advantage to the IT, tourism and other industries. The first flight to Dubai from Vizag will be flagged off on March 25, Mr. Ganta mentioned. Earlier, the Hotliers Association members honoured on his first visit to the city after assuming charge as Minister for Infrastructure and Industries. Mr. Dronamraju Srinivas, MLA- Visakha South, Mr. T. Vijay Kumar, MLA- Visakha North, Mr. P. Ramesh, MLA- Pendurthy, Mr. Ch. Venkataramaiah, MLA- Gajuwaka, Mr. M. Srinivas, MLA- Bheemili, Mr. T. Satyanarayana, President Visakhapatnam Hotliers Association, Mr. S. Kamat Subba Raju, Mr. Ch. Venkateswarlu, and others present.

Community Hall inagurated by Mayor and MLA at 15th ward

A.C. City Buses Inaugurated

Today, GVMC Commisioner Ramanjaneyulu inaugurated APSRTC A.C. City Bus at his Camp office. As Monday being observed as no self vehicles transport day, he utilised the same bus to attend his duties at GVMC. He also urged the public to use APSRTC buses for travelling.

Saint Thyagaraja aaradhana celebrated with devotion by students

Students of sri sathya sai vidya vihar filled the air with mellifluous music as mark of paying tributes to the Saint composer Sri Thyagaraja at the school premises on Sunday. The Thyagaraja aaradhanotsavam was celebrated by the students, staff and non-teaching staff with utmost devotion and fervour.
students sang compositions of Saint thyagaraja like "Melukovayya", Endaro mahanubhavulu-pancharatna kriti", sreerama paadama, seetha kalyana vaibhogame, gandham puyyaruga, rama kodanda rama. sri sathya sai bhajans wer also sung by the students on the occasion.
To mark the Muslim festival "Milad ub nabi', the students sang a khavvalai titled "SAI KI DARBAR ME".
Earlier, students have carried the portrait of saint thyagaraja and srirama, sitha, lakshman, anjaneyaswamy portraits in a procession.
School management committee members sri B.Ramgopal, Sri DSN Murthy, Smt.A.Kausalya, Principal, city seva samithi convener sri K. Venkateswara Raju, staff, hundreds of devotees have participated in the programme.

Vennela AC buses on roads

The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Service (APSRTC) serving bus travellers with better Air Conditioned Vennela buses soon, announced Mr. Y. Jagadeesh Babu, Regional Manager on Friday. He told the newsmen at a conference held at Maddilapalem depot, that these buses can accommodate 24 sleeper berth is facilitated with LCD screen, headphones, bed roll set consisting of a bedsheet, blanket, pillow, towel, napkin etc. As a trial basis these buses will run in city limits, later will be introduced to Tirupati trip. Training session for the technicians and drivers is coming to an end. Once the trial session is over the regular services will be on, he mentioned. This service provides fare including accommodation at Tirupati @ 2.40 rupees per kilometer, he added. The Visakhapatnam Regional Office successfuly earned a profit of 9 crore rupees at the end of third quarter of the current financial year i.e. December 31st, 2011.

Ganta seeks cooperation for development

The Minister for Infrastructure, Airport, Natural Gas and Shippings, Mr. Ganta Srinivas seeks for the cooperation in the development of the district. Addressing the media representatives at Meet the Press on Friday, he said that the problematic issues in the district will be sorted out only through proper acceptance from all the sections. He thanked Mr. Kiran Kumar Reddy, Chief Minister for choosing him for the cabinet post. He said that MoU has been finalised for further development of the Machilipatnam Port. A Maritime Board is likely to be started soon in Andhra Pradesh. The coastline is the State is second in the Country, which has natural harbour in Vizag, Gangavaram and Kakinada Ports. A survey is being done for another major port to be set up at Nakkapalli in Vizag district or at Ramaiah Pet in Prakasam district, and the preference would be for the development of Nakkapalli. He promissed for number of pending issues like mono rail, fly over bridges, international air connectivity etc to be completed as soon possible. The first international service from Vizag airport will be flagged off to Dubai and will be inaugurated on March 25, he added.

Lay work on prevention and control of chronic non-communicable diseases

Sri.Y.R.Reddy, Director (Personnel), RINL, inaugurated ‘XXXIII ALL INDIA STEEL MEDICAL OFFICERS CONFERENCE’ (AISMOC), today i.e 3rd February 2012 at MP Hall Ukkunagaram Club. The Conference is hosted by the Medical Department of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant. Sri. AP Choudhary, CMD, RINL-VSP in his message lauded the efforts of Steel Medical Fraternity in research and curing of industrial ailments, occupational health hazards etc., for the industrial workers particularly steel industry personnel. He hoped that the 3 day conference will pave the way to new developments in industrial medical diagnosis and subsequent curing.
Speaking on the occasion Sri.Y.R.Reddy appreciated the achievements of Medical department of VSP and congratulated for their efforts in organizing such an enormous conference for the third time during the last 18 yrs. Mr. Reddy urged the Doctors to lay work on the prevention and control of chronic non-communicable diseases with special emphasis on action-oriented research. Sri. YR Reddy released the Conference souvenir.
Sri Reddy also stressed on the importance of workmen health in achieving rated capacity and high levels of productivity. He urged all the doctors of steel fraternity to continue providing high standards of medical care to the workmen and set a benchmark in medical treatment to be followed by all. He also reiterated the need for continuous research in the field of Occupational Health and continuous health education.
Key Note Address delivered by Prof. K. Srinath Reddy, President, Public Health Foundation of India & eminent Cardiologist, New Delhi, spoke on the key public health challenges in India.
Dr.Subodh Hiran,Director (M&H),Bhilai addressed the gathering. Dr.M.K.Tripathy, Deputy General Manager (Medical & Health Services)I/C, & Organizing Chairman, and, Dr.A.Patnaik, Deputy General Manager (Ortho) & Organizing Secretary spoke on the occasion. The function is graced by all delegates, doctors & Senior Officials of VSP.
The conference will discuss and deliberate latest developments in Medical Science in general and industrial sector in particular. In this unique conference the Medical officers and specialists of various disciplines of the Steel fraternity from all over India and the Industrial Medical Professionals from Visakhapatnam come together under one umbrella. In addition to the respective Heads of Medical Departments (9), a total of around 80 Doctors from 15 Public & Private sector Integrated Steel Plants have been participating in the conference.
The inaugural function was followed by “ GAATRA-CHITRA SAMMELANAM” -a unique blend of live music and painting on the spot.Classical music is melodiously rendered by Smt.M.Sudharani (Top ranked musician of AIR & DD) and her team.Painting was done by Sri.K.S.Sai Shankar, NANDI AWARD WINNER.

Passing out parade held at shipwright school

A Ceremonial Passing Out Parade was held at Shipwright School today, 02 Feb 12, on the occasion of passing out of the 02/2009 batch of Shipwright Apprentice Course from the School. Rear Admiral T Sudhakar, Chief Staff Officer (Personnel & Administration) was the Chief Guest on the Occasion. He reviewed the Parade and presented the Trophy for the First in Overall Order of Merit to Vikas Soni, Shipwright Apprentice. Best in Parade was awarded Vineeth P Vijayan, Shipwright Apprentice.
In the course of the preceding 117 weeks, the Apprentices trained at the Shipwright School in various facets of Naval Architecture, Ship Building and Ship Maintenance. Apart from professional training, they were also exposed to associated facets of naval life including small arms firing, Drill, Sports and adventure activities.
A valedictory function is also scheduled to be held on Tuesday, 03 Feb 12, that will culminate in a cultural programme presented by the trainee Shipwright Artificers and other talented members of the Shipwright School.

Fashion Technolgy Training Programme Inaugurated By MLA

Fashion Technology Training Programme at Kanakala Dibba, 27th Ward was inaugurated by MLA South D. Srinivas. This programme is being conducted by Adiraj Welfare & Educational Society in collaboration with GVMC. Speaking on this occasion MLA stressed the need of women empowerment. Local Corporator Vanapalli Ravi Kumar, GVMC Zonal Commissioner Dr. Rajasekhar Reddy, UCD PD D.V. Ramana Murthy also present at this occasion.

Ramachandra Jeeyar's Bhiksha yatra

Sri Tridandi Ramachandra Ramanuja Jeeyar Swami of Sri Bhashyakara Peetham (Bhimavaram) continued Bhiskha Yatra on foot in Kommadi village on Wednesday. He started his yatra for Sri Mahalakshmi Yagam from Ashtalakshmi temple in Annamraju Nagar, Madhurawada. He proposed 16 Mahalakshmi yagams, of which 13 th one is scheduled here. Speaking to newsmen, Swamiji said, all sections of the society are welcomed to the yagam. It is proposed to get wealth to everyone, he added. As part of the yagam, special homams will be done for a special cause, like Putrakamesthi for children, Sudarshnesthi for good business, Vaibhavesthi for relief for suicide attempts, Lakshminarayanesthi for wealth etc, he added. Prior to the process, Bhumi puja will be done on March 11 at the AU Engineering College grounds, where the yagam be held. A colourful procession - Sobhayatra will be held on March 29 from Visakha Women's College to Andhra University Engineering College where the Yagam is scheduled. As part of the Yagam prasadam will be served in morning and afternoon at the venue. Special rituals to the goddess Mahalakshmi with one lakh Tulsi, Kumkum and Jasmine will also be performed. On 4th of April, 2012 Samasrahanam will be offered to interested devotees by the Swamiji himself at the venue.

CCTV system control the crime rate : CP

Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) system controls the crime rate in the city, opined Mr. J. Purnachandra Rao, Commissioner of Police. Inaugurating the CCTV system at Harmony Apartment, in Peda Waltair, he said that the city police advising all the Apartments Associations, multistoried complexes, hotels, lodges to set up this equipment to have been protected. CCTV systems can protect your property in a cheaper and easier way than a manned security service. The CCTV systems when combined with motion detection, the Internet and central station monitoring can provide all of the property protection that is required. He congratulated the Apartments residents for providing such equipment on the advise of the city police. Later, he demonstrated the utilisation of the equipment.

Mobile canteen facility inagurated at VSP

Sri. Y.R. Reddy, Director (Personnel) VSP has inaugurated the Mobile canteen facility to facilitate the Contract employees in large numbers and employees of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant at LP Bay of SMS-2 today. The mobile canteen services will be available to the people at Expansion works in General and B’ Shifts. As a part of welfare measures to the employees, this facility will be gradully extended to Blast Furnace-3 and Mills areas.
The Mobile canteen will run by M/s. Talasila Infra and Mobile Hotels, through whom the present canteens of VSP are being managed.
Sri.PN Rao, GM (Iron and Steel), Sri. T. Sundar, DGM(P) I/C Plant Personnel, Sri. Debasis Ray, DGM (Plant Personnel), Sri. Ratna Babu, DGM (SMS-2), Sri. Jana, DGM (Electrical), Sri. KM Rao, AGM(Personnel), Sri. Vijay Kumar Sule, AGM (Personnel)-SMS and Leaders from All Unions and emplyees in large numbers were attended the inaugural function.

GVMC Commissioner visited Gajuwaka

GVMC Commissioner visited Gajuwaka and Malkurapuram. During his visit he inaugurated Kalyamanadapam at Malkapuram and inspected Indoor Stadium at Gajuwaka. He along with GVMC Committee held councelling for transfer of Junior Assistants. He reviewed the working of area-sabhas.