Vijayamma starts her election campaign

Ms. YS Vijaya Lakshmi, honorary president, YSR Congress Party started her election campaign in Narasannapeta on Wednesday. She took the charge, after the party president and Kadapa MP Mr. YS Jaganmohan Reddy was sent to remand in a disproportionate assets case. She was accompanied by her daughter Ms. Sharmila, received a grand welcome at the Visakhapatnam Airport on Wednesday morning by the party cadre. She garlanded statue of her husband Dr. YS Rajasekhar Reddy at NAD Kotha Road Junction before proceeding to Narasannapeta (Srikakulam District) on road. She kicked off her campaign with very powerful script and targeted the ruling Congress, opposition party Telugudesam for maligning her son Jagan. She was strongly supported by thousands of party cadre throughout the journey. Later she proceeded to Payakaraopeta in the evening for further campaign. Ms. Sharmila became a special attraction in the campaign. She will continue her campaign till June 5, according to party sources. Mr. Dharmana Krishna Dasu, contestant in Narasannapeta, Mr. G. Babu Rao, contestant in Payakaraopeta, Mr. Vamsi Krishna Srinivas and others received her at the Visakhapatnam Airport.

1.51 lakh applications for EdCet - 2012

A total of 1,51,582 applications have been received for entrance test for admission into the Bachelor of Education (Ed CET -2012) courses throughout the State, told Dr. N. Venkata Rao. Speaking to newsmen on Wednesday, he said that all the necessary arrangements were done, hall tickets dispached to the applicants, and can also be downloaded from www.edcet2012.org. The test will be held on June 8. All the candidates are advised to reach the examination centre 45 minutes in advance and no one is allowed even after one minute of the scheduled time, he said. For the first time in the State, hall ticket details was sent to all the candidates physically and to through SMS. A special conference was conducted to the regional coordinators and city coordinators. It will be conducted in 40 cities in the State, over 316 centres. Candicates applied for Urdu medium shall have to write the examination in Hyderabad or Kurnool centres only, Dr. Rao mentioned. Dr. PVGD Prasad Reddy, Rector, Andhra University also present.

National seminar on “Present Perspectives of Bioactive molecules and Biotechnology”

A two day National seminar on “Present Perspectives of Bioactive molecules and Biotechnology” was inaugurated by Prof. P.V.G.D. Prasad Reddy, Rector, Andhra University on Wednesday. In his inaugural address, he emphasized the challenges in bioactive molecule researches. Prof. Reddy announced that Andhra University is applying to University Grants Commission (UGC), for a Rs 20 crore project to exploit the extraction of Bioactive molecules from medicinal Plants and marine organisms, since this varsity is surrounded by sea on one side and eastern ghats on the other. Prof. V. Veeriah, Principal, AU College of Science and Technology explained the importance of bioactive molecules in human health and well being. Delivering the key note address of the seminar Dr. B. Sesikeran, Director, National institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad discussed the importance of different technologies such as agricultural technology, nutritional technology, food technology for food and nutrition security. He also emphasized biotechnological advances like marker assisted breeding and transgenic technology could be used to bring about a significant increase in food production both in quantity and quality of nutrition. Each of these technologies has to be developed based on the safety of human and animal health and environment. All these technologies if utilized, will lead to improved quality nutrition to our people of India. Prof. T. Ramana, Prof. K.P.J. Hemalatha, Prof. T. Raghava Rao and other professionals from various institutions were participated in the inaugural ceremony.

Bharat Bandh to protest petro price hike : BJP

Mr. M. Nagendra, president, city wing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) told that the Nationwide bandh called on Thursday is against the petrol price hike. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, he said that it is most undecomocratic that the Congress led UPA Central Government has hiked about 8 rupees recently. It is the 18th time within three years. He appealed the Vizagites to support this Bhavrat Bandh on Thursday, which is scheduled for a good cause. Mr. Nagendra alleged that the Central Government has announced its decision of petro price hike only after completion of the Parliament session anticipating stiff opposition from the BJP and other allied parties. He appealed to all political parties, trade unions, student unions, associations and general public to voluntarily participate in the proposed Bharat bandh. Mr. PVN Madhav, Yuva Morcha leader also present.

Bandh peaceful

The bandh call given by the leaders of the YSR Congress Party in protest against the arrest of their president and Kadapa MP Mr. YS Jaganmohan Reddy evoked poor response from the city on Monday. The police took about 1500 activists of the party into custody in North Coastal districts. A massive dharna staged by city wing near Gandhi statue opposite to the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation. The leaders and workers raised slogans against the Chief Minister Mr. Kiran Kumar Reddy, PCC president Mr. B. Satyanayarana and Telugudesam Party head Mr. Chandrababu Naidu.

Mr. Vamsi Krishna Srinivas, Convenor city wing YSR Congress told the media that, as per the High command instructions, they protest will continue till the release of their leader. He Father told that the Centre and the State Government conspired to send Mr. Jagan to Jail, Such cheap tricks cannot stop the win at the by-election. Earlier, the activists held a huge Rally from the party office in Maddilapalem to GVMC. More police forces were deployed to restrict violations if any during the bandh. Mr. J. Purnachandra Rao, Commissioner of Police himself personally supervised the security arrangements in the city. Mr. GV Ravi Raju, Mr. Hanok, Mr. Koyya Prasad Reddy, Ms. Ambati Vijaya Rao, Ms. Ushakiran, and others participated in the protest camp.

A1 held - high alert in city

High alert was declared in city, as the A1 Mr. YS Jaganmohan Reddy, accused in money landering case on Sunday. Mr. J. Purnachandra Rao, Commissioner of Police personally supervised the bandobust at Visakhapatnam Railway station, RTC complex, Government offices including CBI, party offices. As the statewide bandh called by the YSR Congress Party, against the arrest of its party president by the CBI in Hyderabad. Police held some of the activists under precautionary measures. Meanwhile the YSR Congress Party district wing appealed the activists to particiate in bandh peaceful and not to damage any public or private property. Some of bus services were stopped due to precautionary measures. Passengers at the RTC complex suffered lot on Sunday. The police were also seen at Maddilapalem Junction on the National Highway, NAD Kotha Road, Railway Station and RK Beach. A rally would be taken out from the party office (Maddilapalem) up to Mahatma Gandhi statue where a peaceful dharna would be organised, the leaders announced.

Astrology is a super science : AB Shukla, IAS

District administration made all the necessary arrangements for the Group I examinations organised by the Andhra Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) on May 27. Mr. Lav Agarwal District Collector told that about 19,219 candidates appearing in 53 centres in Visakhapatnam. Various schools were selected in Visakhapatnam (Urban), Visakhapatnam (Rural), Gajuwaka, Pendurthy and Anandapuram mandals to conduct this exam from 10.30 am to 1 pm. No electronic equipment including mobiles are allowed inside the hall and 144 section will be imposed around the test centres. Mr. Akshay Suchdev, APPSC observer, Mr. Balakrishna, DCP, Mr. Hashim Shariff, DRO, Mr. B. Satyanarayana, RDO and other officials were also present at the session.

Protests on petro price hike. Effigies burnt at junctions

Representatives of opposition parties conveyed their protest against the hike of the petrol price on Thusday. The Communist Party of India (Marxist)- CPM, Communist Party of India (CPI), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Telugudesam activists staged dharnas, rasta rokhos at various junctions in city. Addressing at the dharna, Mr. Ch. Narasinga Rao, District Secreraty CPM told that the Congress led UPA Government has lost confidence in public and has no right to continue in power. It is very difficult to hold huge burden on commonman, about 8 rupees increase per litre petrol and it is the 14th occasion during the past three years and it is 30 rupees hike in Visakhapatnam only, he told. This will impact on other products like diesel, kerosene and cooking gas too. Mr. JV Satyanarayana Murthy, District Convenor CPI demanded the UPA Government either to withdraw the hike or to quit power on the occasion. Activists of both the left parties blocked Maddilapalem junction for about one hour in the morning, before they were taken into custody by the police.
Mr. M. Nagendra, City president BJP opined that, this UPA parties striving to serve for Corporate sectors but not the public whom they elected. Earlier, the staged a rasta rokho at Dwarakanagar centre- one of the busiest junctions in the city and burnt an effigy of the Union Government. Mr. PVN Madhav, Ms. Ratnakumari, Ms. Rajakumari and others present.

RINL & NMDC inks MOU for Installation of Slurry Pipeline and Pellet Plant

• Slurry pipeline is planned to be routed alongside the National Highway 43, avoiding the forest area
• Eases congestion of Kirandul to Kothavalasa railway line
• Project Cost Rs. 2200 Crs approx.

In the august presence of Sri Beni Prasad Verma, Hon’ble Minister of Steel, Govt. of India, the mining giant NMDC signed MOU with the second largest government owned steel company in India, RINL, for Installation of 336 Km length Slurry Pipeline from Jagdalpur to Visakhapatnam and a 4 Mtpa capacity Pellet Plant at Visakhapatnam today. The MoU was signed by Shri N.K. Nanda, CMD (I/c), NMDC and Shri A.P. Choudhary, CMD, RINL.
Hon’ble Steel Minister, Sri Beni Prasad Verma congratulated both NMDC and RINL for joining hands and he said that it is a right step in right direction. Joining hands by RINL and NMDC to take up the project for laying slurry pipeline and pellet plant is very significant move. NMDC needs to market and clear the fines from mine site and RINL needs raw material linkage for its growth plan.
Sri DRS Chaudhary, Secretary Steel present during the signing-in ceremony said that the pellet plant shall be a right step in the direction of raw material security that RINL is aiming for in the backdrop of its long term capacity expansion plan.
NMDC plans to increase its production of iron ore from Bailadila Region to 50 MTPA with expansion of existing mines and addition of new mines like Deposit -11B, Deposit 13 and Deposit 4. To increase the evacuation capacity, NMDC is contemplating to develop a slurry pipeline project from its mines in Chhattisgarh to feed RINL’s plant at Visakhapatnam and also to the proposed NMDC’s steel plant at Nagarnar. A new blast furnace has recently been commissioned in April 2012 as a part of RINL’s expansion plans.
The project will strengthen the synergy between steel major RINL and Mining leader NMDC. At the moment, the Kirandul to Kothavalasa railway line which is the lifeline for transportation of iron ore by NMDC to Visakhapatnam steel plant and other customers has reached its capacity for handling iron ore traffic. Hence, it is believed that this project shall expect to ease congestion on KK railway line.
The slurry pipeline shall be the second one to terminate at Visakhapatnam in addition to the existing pipeline of Essar Steel.
The pipeline is planned to be routed alongside the National Highway 43, avoiding the forest area. This will result in easy access for maintenance and reduced threat from extremists.
The slurry transportation cost is expected to be app Rs 400- 500/mt compare to Rs 870/mt by Rail.
M/s Mecon shall be the consultant for this entire project. The project is expected to be executed at the total cost of around Rs 2200 Crore in 36 months from the date of order placement.

Group I examinations

District administration made all the necessary arrangements for the Group I examinations organised by the Andhra Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) on May 27. Mr. Lav Agarwal District Collector told that about 19,219 candidates appearing in 53 centres in Visakhapatnam. Various schools were selected in Visakhapatnam (Urban), Visakhapatnam (Rural), Gajuwaka, Pendurthy and Anandapuram mandals to conduct this exam from 10.30 am to 1 pm. No electronic equipment including mobiles are allowed inside the hall and 144 section will be imposed around the test centres. Mr. Akshay Suchdev, APPSC observer, Mr. Balakrishna, DCP, Mr. Hashim Shariff, DRO, Mr. B. Satyanarayana, RDO and other officials were also present at the session.

Class X results announced. Confusion with grading system.

Mr. K. Pardhasarathi, State Secondary Educational Minister released the Class X results at Hyderabad one day late as declared earlier. About 88.76 per cent of girls and 86.97 per cent of boys qualified in it. For the first time, the results were announced in grading system but not in marks. According to the sources, to suppress the competition among the educational institutions. The district could score 87.04 per cent of which boys grabbed 87.15 per cent and girls 86.93 per cent and stood in 14 th rank in the State. Rupadevi, daughter of an auto driver in Vepagunta qualified with 9.8 grading, Eswari Priyanka of old ITI junction also from Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation school grabbed 9.7 points stood in A1 grade. Her father is a painter. Number of students from the City of Destiny scored 10 point, Madhavi Latha of Madhavadhara among them. The Andhra University English Medium school grabbed good grading points. About 28 students scored top grade and seven next grades. The supplementary Examination will be conducted from 26th June and the last date of submission of the applications for the supplementary examinations is 11th June. Students, Parents and Educational institutions were confused with this grading system to trace out the marks scored based on different gradings like A1, A2, B1,B2,C1,C2,D1 and D2. Students in large number rush to internet cafes to get the result as early.

AUCET admissions began

The admission counselling for admissions into first year Post Graduation (PG) courses in Andhra University began on Wedensday. Dr. Prasad Reddy, Rector Andhra University handed over the admission cards to the top rankers on the occasion. The counselling session for Science stream first phase and Arts in second phase. Ms. Namadi Kiranmai (Bio- Chemistry), Mr. Gajula Muralikrishna (Organic chemistry) and Mr. Kamma Srihari (3rd ranker in Botany) received admission letters from the Rector. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Reddy said that, keeping in view of the academic year, this year the admission process pre-organised on May 22 instead of May 31 as announced earlier. All the rank holders can check the updated counselling status at www.andhrauniversity.info. First phase of science stream ends on May 28 and followed by Arts stream, he mentioned. Second phase admissions will be held from June 3 to June 9. Mr. Anil Kumar, Director of Admissions, also present.

Tight security for by-election : DGP Dinesh Reddy 171 platoons paramilitary deployed. First canteen will be at Vizag

Five level security will be arranged to conduct peaceful polling in 18 Assembly and one Lok Sabha by-election scheduled on June 12, announced Mr. V. Dinesh Reddy, Director General of Police. Speaking to media here on Wednesday, he said, that about 171 platoons of paramilitary forces apart from inter-state police forces and 12 armed reserve police will be deployed for it. All the constituencies will be under control of police 48 hours before the by-election date. Non voters including ruling party members will be evacuated from the by-poll constituencies on the day. All the check posts be alerted to control transport of unclaimed money and liquor, he added. So far Rs. two crore unclaimed money seized by the police. About three additional SPs, ten DSPs, 33 Inspectors and 153 SIs will look after the by-election, he told. The police will not tolerate any sort of violance, if the YSR Congress party chief and Kadapa MP Mr. Jaganmohan Reddy will be arrested by the CBI, Mr. Reddy mentioned. All the troublesome booths will be provided with more security. The Andhra Orissa border (AOB) is peaceful and the entire area is under control he said. Earlier, the DGP inaugurated a police club at Suryabagh. He told that State police will have a Super Speciality hospital in Yousafguda, Hyderabad for the welfare of the police families. Police Canteens will be established in Visakhapatnam to benefit the police families of Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, Srikakulam districts. Mr. J. Purnachandra Rao, Commissioner of Police and other city cops joined him during his visit.

Protests on petro price hike of Rs. 80.16 per litre

Protests are on against the latest petrol price hike Wednesday late evening. All the opposition parties pointed out the failure of the Congress led UPA Government at the centre. After adding state taxes, the petrol product in city would be Rs. 80.16, whereas Rs 81.44 a litre in Hyderabad. All the opposition parties flayed the latest petrol price hike, said the UPA Government was digging its own grave. This would affect the common man and indirectly increase the prices of essential commodities. Additional budget of Rs. 8.36 increased on citymen, it was Rs. 71.80 earlier. This is the 11th occasion since June 26, 2010. It was Rs. 49.05 in December 2009. The common man in the city could not bear such huge difference, Mr. Narasinga Rao, of CPM told. The Opposition parties including Telugudesam, CPM, CPI decided to fight against this petrol hike. They requested all the Vizagites to cooperate the protest. There may be every chance of increase of diesel, kerosene, LPG in future and it would make the lives of the poor miserable.

Red Ribbon Express for city on June 16

A special train on HIV and AIDS awareness campaigning programme Red Ribbon Express will reach Vizag by June 16. According to the district officials, the train would be here for two days and the exhibition was meant for creating awareness among the people on HIV, AIDS and malaria. Mr. DV Reddy, will be incharge for this train here. The Two day training will be given to the students, women Self Help Groups (SHG), Anganwadi activists, youth organisations and other responsible volunteers at the spot. It was being jointly organised by the State Government and Centre. All sorts of propagation through pamphlets, posters etc., will be done, so that more people should come to it. This train left at New Delhi on January 12 and reach Vizag by June 16. During its year long journey across 23 states, it will cover 162 halt stations. It has three exhibition coaches with exhibits on HIV and AIDS while the fourth exhibition coach on National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) has exhibits on Tuberculosis, Malaria, Reproductive and Child Health services, general health and hygiene.

Hon'ble Steel Minister Reviews Annual Performance Of RINL For The Financial Year 2011-12 – Appreciates RINL Performance

Shri Beni Prasad Verma, Hon’ble Steel Minister reviewed the Annual Performance of Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd. (RINL), Visakhapatnam for the Financial Year 2011-12 at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi today. The Hon’ble Minister appreciated the company’s efforts for registering significant growth in 2011-12.
He also complimented RINL for commissioning of 6.3 mtpa expansion units and asked RINL to quickly stabilize production from the new units.
RINL registered a growth of 7% in volume of Iron & Steel products and 79% of the company sales was Value Added Steel supplemented by significant growth of 45% in by-products and 47% in export of pig iron which helped in improving the bottom line thereby generating surplus funds for further expansion.
Shri A.P. Choudhary, CMD, RINL made a presentation indicating the highlights of performance achieved during the last financial year.
During the course of the presentation it was indicated that impact of around Rs. 1300 crs mainly on account of higher coking coal prices and iron ore prices could be partly offset through management initiatives & in-house cost reduction exercises such as optimization of coal blend, reduction in energy consumption, reduction in coke rate, increased usage of metallurgical waste, improvement in yields of various units etc. The company also commissioned a 14 MW Power plant to produce power from waste heat and a 2 Million Gallon per Day, Waste Water Treatment plant to recover waste water.
RINL achieved efficiency in four of its techno- economic parameters namely water consumption, Fuel rate in the Blast Furnace which includes coke rate, BF slag utilization etc. A reduction of 5 kg in coke rate, 1% in energy consumption and 27% improvement in converter lining life with a best life of 7777 has been achieved.
Shri D.R.S. Chaudhary, Secretary (Steel), while appreciating the efforts of RINL for improving its techno-economic parameters, advised the company to take advantage of its costal location to improve profitability.
Performance of RINL towards CSR, Environmental Measures as well as progress made by RINL for improving its presence in rural India through appointment of rural dealers were appreciated.
Additional Secretary and Financial Advisor, Shri S. Machendranathan and Joint Secretary, Dr. Dalip Singh were also present during the review.

Highlights of Performance Include -

• Hot metal flows from the biggest Blast furnace in PSU under MOS
• High Speed Caster – one of the fastest in the country goes on stream
• Record Turnover of Rs. 14457 crs - Growth of 26%.
• Sales volume of Iron & Steel Products – Growth of 7%
• Net Profit of around Rs. 750 crs – Growth of 14%.
• Payment to GOI Rs.1556 crs

Cong, YCP belongs to same school : TDP chief

The ruling Congress party and the YSR Congress are both released from same school in cheating the people, opined Mr. Chandrababu Naidu, president Telugudesam party. During the by-election campaigning session at Payakaraopeta mandal on Tuesday, he frays on the activities of ruling Congress party and the little bud YSR Congress. Mr. Yaganmohan Reddy, founder president YSR CP was scared of his own shadow and alleged that his arrest would never lead to cancellation of the elections. Most of the lands gave away at the cheapest price throughout the State during the Congress rule, with that effect YSR CP has born and broughtup now, Mr. Naidu stated. Mr. Jagan is not a freedom fighter nor an expert in political activities. Lets all support the CBI and extend complete support to their duty without interruption. This by-election was a result of resignation by the sitting MLA, who is also contesting again, he has to answer the public in this regard. The Telugudesam has good cadre in this constituency and Mr. Vengala Rao elected twice here and served better ever, Mr. Babu told. He further continued his campaign in this constituency. He was accompanied by Mr. Ch. Ayyannapatrudu, Telugudesam cadre from city and district during his road show.

CITU demands action against RTC official

The members of Visakha city committee of Shramika Mahila Coordination Committee associated with (Centre for Indian Trade Unions - CITU), staged a dharna protesting against the alleged lethargic attitude of the APSRTC and the police towards sexual harassment case of a lady conductor on Monday. Addressing the gathering at the protesting camp held at Collectorate Ms. Kameswari, its convenor demanded the Road Transport Corporation Visakha region management to complete the inquiry and initiate stringent action as per the law. The woman conductor Lakshmi working in the Waltair Depot, lodged a complaint with the depot manager on April 13 alleging that TI-3 supervisor Mr. Rama Rao has been harassing her sexually. After repeated appeals to her higher authorities, she staged a protest at the depot and the regional office as well in various modes. Later, a complaint was also lodged with the police, who failed to take any action so far. The CITU activists questioned the RTC authorities for their negligence towards a woman employee. Both the RTC management and police have failed to step forward to do justice to an innocent. They submitted a memorandum was submitted to Mr. Lav Agarwal on May 7, who asked the police to take immediate action. But the result is same, the probe is continuing name sake, she told newsmen.

Satya Vratam held central prison

To propagate true living system and develop spiritual values among the devotees whereever they lived in, the Annavaram Satyanarayana swamy Devasthanam, Annavaram authorities organised mass vratams at the central prision on Monday. A Prachar Ratham of the temple came out to the door steps of the devotees in association with Hindu Dharma Prarirakshana Trust. Mr. Ramachandra Mohan, Executive Officer of the temple told the media, that this journey received good responce from the devotees and it is a good time to the inmates of the central prison to participate directly in it, he thanked the jail authorities for the opportunity given to the prisoners. To propagate spiritualism and devotion among public who are not able to come all the way to Annavaram to perform ‘vratam’, they pressed the Lord’s Prachara Ratham into service. Every third Saturday, the vratam will be done at Central prison Rajahmundry, and will change mindset and attitude of the inmates, he added. Mr. Haq, Prison superintendent said, by putting the people in jail is not to punish them, but to change the attitude of them to live like good human beings. In the same route, they invited the Annavaram Temple authorities to hold ‘vratam’ to inmates following their offer, which is a great thing to help reform the inmates and to develop spiritualism. Officials from Prison, Government organisations were also participated.

Rajiv remembered on his death anniversary

The Vizagites remembered the former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his death anniversary on Monday. Mr. Dronamraju Srinivas, Government Whip garlanded the protrait the statue of Rajiv on the occasion and told that the nation should feel proud of the departed leader for his sacrifice. He further said that Rajiv has created new history in the country by providing voting right to the people of India (aged 18years) and also took steps for the development of Information Technology. During Mr. Gandhi's reign India had maintained good relations with all the neighbouring countries including Pakistan. The administration in the nation is crucial while he assumed charge as the youngest prime minister of India, he opined. Mr. Rajiv Gandhi made his last speech here at the Indira Priyadarshini Stadium just before three hours of his death, Mr. Srinivas recollected that moment.
Mr. Rajiv Gandhi, former Prime Minister has become role model to number of younger generations opined Ms. Neeraja Agarwal, wife of District Collector Lav Agarwal. Speaking at a session organised by Sri Gayatri Welfare and Cultural Youth Academy, she has made an appeal to all sections of the society to strive for the unity, integrity and tranquillity in the country to help promote world peace. She paid floral tributes to the portrait of Rajiv Gandhi on the occasion. Students from various educational institutions were also present.

A review meet with all levels of GVMC officers, Engineers and Women Associations held by GVMC Commissioner on 19-May-2019. He requested Slum Federations to cooperate and organise good facilities to the people in their areas. He also told that the Micro-development is only possible with the major involvement of Slum Federations. He informed them that the governisation has been brought down from Zonal to Ward to Area to Federation so has to have a better governance for the people of Visakha.

Concentrate on safety measures : Vice Admiral Anil Chopra National Seminar on Fire and Electrical Safety held

Vice Admiral Anil K Chopra advised to concetrate on safety measures where ever live in. Addressing the gathering at the National Seminar organised by Fire Safety Association of India (FSAI) on Saturday, he told that Indian Navy is very particular in taking all the security services in and along the coastline. As part of the social responsibility, IN is exending services beyond its activities. Every construction including residential, commercial complexes, hotels, schools etc should maintain necessary safety measures and keep the fire extinguishers at the each floor, he advised. Mr. Domimic, General Secretary presented few incidents that had occured in various parts of country. Pointing out the carelessness of the people, he stated that most of the citizens doesn't care the responisibility, it was proved in fire accident at Hi-tech city in Bangalore, AMRI hospital in Kolkata, High Court in Delhi, School in Kumbhakonam etc. He advised all the citizens to keep fire extinguishers even at the individual flats. He further stated that FSAI is creating awareness among the public, as part of about 2,85,000 school children were trained how to handle severe situation during a fire accident. An exhibition held at the venue, about 20 organisations from various locations had exhibited latest safety equipment in it. During the session, The FSAI committee passed a resolution to announce Vizag chapter an independent one. Mr. K. Leela Prasad, Vizag Chapter, delegates from various industries Visakhapatnam Port Trust, HPCL, Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, Indian Navy, Hotels, etc participated in it.

Tank clean with latest equipment

Clean and hygienic potable water is a universal need and one organisation in the Visakha Water Care has come forward to serve the Vizagites, said Mr.MMP Raju, its incharge. It is a franchisee of Fastclean, which is an established one and serving throughout the nation for the past decade. The organisation has good equipment and well trained crew cleans the water storage tanks anywhere in the construction will be cleaned. Usually, water storage tanks are typically located underground or overhead.
The same water that sustains our lives becomes home for a variety of germs, bacteria, pollutants and suspended particles. The 7 stage cleaning system includes mechanised dewatering, sludge removal, high pressure cleaning, vacuum cleaning, anti bacterial spray, UV radiation, spray of bleaching powder. Chemical treatment is available for 500 to 5 lakh litres and above capatity tanks. It is very useful to the apartments, shopping complexes, hotels, hospitals and other multi storied ones, he added.

Fire and Electrical Safety Exhibition on 19th

The Fire and Security Association of India, Visakhapatnam Chapter is organising an exclusive two day seminar on Exhibition on Fire and Electrical Safety, Security and Automation on 19th and 20th May, at Hotel Novotel, Varun Beach. Addressing the Media Mr. Dominic, General Secretary said that the F.S.A.I. mission is to create awareness among the younger generation on Fire Safety. In this endeavour they visited various shcools, and trained 2,85,000 children, in evacuation during a fire, grievance, Hyderabad Chapter President, K. Shashank said they have Techincal Programmes in Fire Safety in Hospitals, Hotels. He further added that present conference is being attended by more than 300 delegates, and also experts from Newzealand and U.K. S.K. Dheri, Group Head (Fire Safety), DLF Limited & Chairman NBC Part IV and William Gallagher, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer are participating in the two day session. K. Leela Prasad, Vizag Sub-Chapter Joint Secretary was present during the press meet.

Election media centre opened

Mr. J. Purnachandra Rao, Commissioner of Police, inaugurated the Media Certificate and Monotoring Cell (MC MC) at the district collectorate on Friday. Mr. Lav Agarwal, District Election Officer and District Collector, Mr. G. Srinivas, Superintendent of Police (SP), Mr. Robin Choudhury, IRS (Income Tax - Kolkata) Election expenditure observer also joined the occasion. Mr. Agarwal said, to disseminate poll information to print and electronic media from time to time, this centre will monitor all the activities of contesting candidates during their campaign. Every candidate needs to get permission for the publication of their campaigning information before they release advertisements to news dailies, Televisions news channels, cable networks, websites and radios. MC&MC members Prof. DVR Murty, Head of the Deapartment of Mass Communication and Master of Journalism, Andhra University, Mr. B Nageswara Reddy administrative officer and others participated.

Meet the VUDA- VC on May 22

Mr. K. Sashidhar, Vice Chairman of Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority (VUDA) has announced an innovative activity “Meet the VC” to provide prompt services to those who have applied for approvals and other permissions. For the first time in VUDA, this Meet the VC concept will get good support from the public, the sources opined. Mr. Sashidhar, and his subordinates will clarify the queries raised by the public. This session will be held twice a month, the officials will attend the session with complete data ie layout plans, occupation details of VUDA shopping complexes in city for the programme. Mr. Sasidhar has already directed the Chief Urban Planner to review the status of each application now with VUDA and make them ready for the first "Meet the VC" program scheduled on May 22. Approvals and permissions will be issued on the spot during the "Meet the VC" programme for those applications meeting all requirements. Those applied for Layout approvals and building permissions from the regions of Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region (VMR), spreading in Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, Srikakulam and East Godavari districts were also asked to attend the programme.

At last Simhachalam EO surrender

Finally, the State Government surrendered Mr. Ch. Narasinga Rao, executive officer, Sri Varaha Lakshmi Nrusimha Swamy temple, Simhachalam to his parental department on Wedensday late hours. For the first time, this temple EO was sent back on force against many controversies and number of allegations during the Chanadayatra, and Kalyanotsavam recently. The State Government has appointed Joint Secretary of revenue wing OVR Reddy to enquiry in this regard. The Committee enquired temple crew and devotees as well. Mr. Narasinga Rao was the first person in the history of the Simhachalam temple to pick up many controversies in a short span of 11 months by taking unilateral decisions. Irked over all these issues, Mr Anand Gajapathi Raju wrote a letter to the Endowments Commissioner asking to change the EO, according to sources. Temple officials waiting for the appointment of the new EO.

Workshop on Filmaking by M.V. Raghu

Noted Cinematographer Mr. MV Raghu, is organising a five day workshop on Film making from June 1 in city, according to Mr. Narava Prakasa Rao, Hon. Secretary Vizag Film Society. Speaking at the poster release ceremony on Wedensday, he said, it is a unique opportunity to the interested lensmen to learn tips through expertise. The workshop will be organised at VJF Press Club, Seethammadhara, comprises three day theory and two days practicals at Ramanaidu studio, from 10 am to 5 pm. , he mentioned. Course fee for this workshop is Rs. 5000 inclusive of breakfast and lunch, he added. Half knowledge work is nowhere useful and success will come only through perfection and experience, said Mr. L. Satyanand, noted stage director. He further stated that short courses create awareness among the interested, this workshop will teach system of cinematography, editing, special effects, lighting, and camera handling etc.

INHS Kalyani set to celebrate its Golden Jubilee

INHS Kalyani, the Naval Hospital of Eastern Naval Command is all set for its Golden Jubilee Celebrations on 18 May 2012, as it completes 50 Glorious years of service to the Nation and the Defence personnel based at Visakhapatnam. Interacting with the local media on the occasion, Surgeon Commodore VSSR Ryali, Commanding Officer INHS Kalyani recounted how from the humble beginnings as a 60 bed hospital in 1962, it has now grown to be the second largest hospital of Indian Navy. During the last five decades, a constant thrust towards modernisation and quality health care has resulted in setting up of facilities like two Intensive Care Units (ICU), Ceramics Laboratory in the Dental Centre, Aram Ghar for relatives of serious patients, Ex-Servicemens Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) Polyclinic, Modular Operation Theatres, a 16 slice multi-detector CT scan and a Special Care Ward to manage unforeseen radiation injuries makes Kalyani the only Armed Forces Hospital with such a facility. Surgeon Commodore Ryali said that on this momentous occasion, INHS Kalyani stands on the threshold of its transformation to a 604-bedded, tertiary care Command Hospital with ten super-specialty centers that will have a new wing that will boast of state-of-the-art, fully air-conditioned and mechanically ventilated building with basement parking, terrace auditorium and roof-top helipad.

Surgeon Commodore Pavan Sarin, Command Medical Officer spoke of the exemplary services rendered by the Hospital to the dependant populace and its yeoman contributions at times of natural or man-made disasters. As an example of the mettle of this hospital he evoked few instances of the spontaneous health care given during the adversity of a tank blast in HPCL in 1997 and again during the devastation in the Orissa Super Cyclone 1999, floods in West Bengal as well as in the unprecedented tsunami in 2004. In all these situations, the Hospital extended its role to offer a healing touch to the afflicted people along the East Coast of India, and during the Tsunami, to the people of several countries abroad as well.

A Health Run on 14 Apr 2012 and a Multispecialty Health Camp at Ponduru on 29 Apr 12 were conducted as part of the host of activities scheduled to commemorate the Event. The anniversary celebrations slated for 18 May 12, include a ceremonial parade, release of a Special First Day Cover and a Seminar on Recent Advances and Challenges of Modern Hospitals of the New Millennium and will be attended by the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command, as well as several senior delegates from all parts of country including the Director Generals of Armed Forces Medical Services, and eminent doctors from civilian fraternity.

Local bodies ignored First LS member

Mr. BV Ram, president Telugu Sakthi, flays the local bodies including Cheif Minister Mr. Kiran Kumar Reddy and opposition party leader Mr. Chandrababu Naidu ignored to honour Mr. Kandala Subrahmanyam (Tilak), the first member of the Lok Sabha (1952 - 57). Speaking to media on Wednesday here in Vizag, he said, it is honour to the State that, only two members of that period belongs to this State were identified and given respect at the highest coucil in the Country on completion of 60 years of the house recently. Mr Ram, who escorted him to New Delhi, quoting the observations of the first two Andhra MPs and presented their views at the highest council in the capital. Mr. Tilak will arrive in the city by the end of this month and were planning to organise a welcome rally and Vizagites are invited to take part in it, Mr. Ram added. He demanded the government to direct the district administration to organise an official felicitation function to these two personalities, who are a pride to this land. Mr VV Narasimham, son-in- law of Mr Tilak, Mr. K Nagabhushana Rao and Ms K Keertana and others also present.

Hanuman Jayanthi celebrated

Temples in the city celebrated Hanuman Jayanthi with religious fervour on Tuesday. Lord Hanuman appreared on this holi land for the first time on Vaisakha Bahula Dasami, it become practice to the devotees to celebrate and offer prayers to him. Devotees rushed to temples from early hours and performed special rituals to lord Hanuman on the occasion. It being Tuesday as well, temple authorities made all the necessary arrangements to control rush. Abhishekams offered with Tulsi, Beetal leaf, kumkum, cow milk, Sindhur and fruit juice. Devotees staged chantings of Hanuman Chalisa, Sundarakanda slokas till the evening. Abhaya Anjaneya temple in Seethamma dhara, Old Venkojipalem, Tatichetla palem, Purnamarket, Adrashananagar junction, Madhurawada, Kotha road, etc offered Anna Prasad in the afternoon, followed by the cultural shows in the evening.

Slum Free India project ready to implement Intl convention concluded

The State Government has decided to implement the proposal made by Brazil's Chief of Staff and Planning Director Mr. Eduardo Trani on Tuesday. It was mentioned by Dr. Vijay Kumar, Secretary, Municipal Administration and Urban Development, Government of Andhra Pradesh at the closing session of two day International Convention on Slum Free India Policy and Practice and Lessions from International Experiences, here. He said that India and Brazil would take up the project implementation under Rajiv Awas Yojana (RAY). This decision was taken up after a special demonstration through power point presentation given by Brazil experts, Eduardo Trani and Diana Motta, Project Director, Emplasa, Metropolitan Planning Agency, Sao Paulo State. Further proceedings will be done in few stages, Mr. Kumar mentioned. The officials present at the convention convey their acceptance to this proposal. Dr Neelam Pradananga, Nepal, Prof. K. Srinivasa Chary of Administrative Staff College of India, Prof. Vijay Dhar, National Institute of Urban Affairs, New Delhi, Mr. B. Ramanjaneyulu, Commissioner- Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation and others participated.

AUCET 2012 admissions advanced Counselling begins on May 22 : AU Rector

The admission counselling begins from May 22, instead of May 31 as proposed, announced Dr. Prasad Reddy, Rector Andhra University. Speaking at news conference on Tuesday at AU campus, he said, keeping in view of the academic year, this year the admission process advanced to May 22. The rank cards already despatched to the all the rank holders, it can also be downloaded from www.andhrauniversity.info. On May 22, counselling starts with science stream, on day one, all the special category will be filled, on May 23 onwards the regular admissions be done and continued till June 2. First phase of science stream ends on May 28 and followed by Arts stream, he mentioned. Second phase admissions will be held from June 3 to June 9. For the first time, the counselling scheduled will be updated in website at the end of the day. All the rank holders are advised to the go through the www.andhrauniversity.info, for latest updates before they come to counselling. Mr. Anil Kumar, Director of Admissions, Dr. Samrajya Lakshmi, Registrar and Dr. Bobby Vardhan, Media Coordinator also present.

GAT 2012 results announced

Dr. G. Subrahmanyam, Vice Chancellor, Gitam University, announced the GAT 2012, All India Level, Gitam University Admission Test results for Engineering on Tuesday. He congratulated the all the rankers and said, the top ten will get fees reimbursement upto 100% free admission into the University, whereas the next 90 rankers will get seat at 50 per percent fees reimbursement. The online test attended by 45000 throughout the nation in 18 centres, he added. The admission conselling will begin from June 22 onwards, there are 1700 seats in Visakhapatnam and 1200 in Hyderabad. Among the top 10 Rankers, 8 were from Sri Chaitanya Junior College and one each from Narayana Junior College and Kakatiya Public School. Dr. D. Hari Narayana - Pro V.C, Dr. M. Poturaju - Registrar, Dr. K. Narendra -Admissions Director, Prof. D. Prasad Rao, Institute of Technology Principal were also present. Top 10 Rankers : Sushma Vankayala, Sure Manoj Kumar, Kavuluru Radha Krishna, Yashwanth Velidi, Prabhakara Varun T, Veereju Anil Chandra S Raju, J.P. Sagar, Kota Mahindar Ananda Kumar, Debanjan Mukherjee, Lagadapti Akhil.

Arrangements for Inter supply reviewed

Mr. UCG Nageswara Rao, Additional Joint Collector has directed the officials to make all arrangements for the first and second year Intermediate advance supplementary examinations to be held from Wednesday. He reviewed the meeting and reminded that the exams have been advanced from May 23. The exams will be held at 85 centres in the district, police officials have directed to make arrangements for bandobast. The RTC authorities were asked to operate special buses from 6 am till 5 pm. Transco officials were asked to ensure uninterrupted power supply during test timings. District Medical and Health officials were directed to get ready with first aid facility at the test centres. Mr. D Ramanjaneyulu, Regional Inspection Officer of Intermediate Board, Mr. Suryaprakasa Rao, Transco Deputy Engineer and other officials were present.

CPM activists held

Activists of Communist Party of India (Marxist)- CPIM held for obstructing the two day International Convention on Slum Free Urban India, on Monday. Dr. Ganga Rao, secretary, citywing of CPM along with the slum dwellers in the city staged a dharna at the convention venue, and said, the Government has failed to fulfill the needs of the low income groups. This convention is planned to evacuate the slums from city, for the past few years, the party is fighting against these proposals, he mentioned. Government schemes like Jawaharlal Nehru Urban Reconstruction Mission (JNNURM) and Rajiv Awas Yojana (RAY) are nowhere useful to these communities. These people demanding to construct the housing at the same place where these dwellers residing. The police warned the activists to withdraw before they took more than 50 activists into their custody.

Poll ads need MCMC permission

The code of conduct for by-elections in the district become more severe. As per the directions of the State Election Commission, Mr. Lav Agarwal, District Collector and returning officer for Payakaropeta by-elections issued a guidelines that, the political parties and contesting candidates would have to take permission of Media Certificate and Monitoring Committee (MCMC) for giving election- related advertisements in newspapers and TV channels. Advertisements published in dailies, news channels and local radio stations would become part of the election expenditure, the Collector said. A special committee will be appointed to look after this category. All the data regarding advertisement, political party, name of the candidate, address etc be submitted in CD or DVD form to the concerned committee one week in advance, he mentioned. This committee would issue a certificate then only the advertisent is permitted for publication. All the political parties and contestants are answerable to the committee for any sort of campaigning including paid articles, pamphlets etc. Action will be taken as per the Supreme Court orders and Cable Network Act of 1990, the returning officer stated. Action also be extended to the printers of above campaigning material such as pamphlet, adverstiment, if they fail to publish their name on it.

Call to continue protest on VUDA scam

Mr. Jaya Prakash Narayan, National President, Lok Satta called the city cadre on Friday. Addressing the party session at Platinum Jubilee Guest House, Andhra University, he directed them to concentrate on public interested issues like VUDA land scam, liquor belt shops, awareness on prevention of traffic accidents, etc. Even ten seats in the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) counsel can solve the issues in city. Later Dr Jayaprakash Narayan launched the website of ‘The society of caring hands – We care’. The members of ‘Caring Hands – We Care’ have created the website to create awareness among people about helping the poor and the needy through the web, said members Ashok, Ruth Diamond, Raghu, Kranthi, Tarak and Narendra. Activists of women and youth wings of Loksatta attended in large number.

All-party team visits scam-hit VUDA lands

A team of 20 members comprises opposition parties had visited the various lands sold out by Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority (VUDA) involved in land scam on Friday. This team pointed out misutilisation of power and demanded to cancel all the allotments and a comprehensive inquiry be held by independent agency like Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Mr. Jaya Prakash Narayana, president Lok Satta, said it is a conspiracy of unknown proportions in which government lands were transferred to the private individuals, the VUDA should take back the lands and initiate stringent action against the officials involved in the scam. Mr. K. Yerrannaidu former minister Telugu Desam and politburo member, mentioned that this scam is beyond Rs. 4000 crores and not as admitted by Mr. K. Sasidhar, Vice chairman VUDA. Mr. K. Narayana, State Secretary Communist Party of India (CPI) , VUDA land scam in much more bigger than Emaar scam it seems, and demanded that the inquiry should be handed over to the CBI. Mr. Lakshmi Narayana, Bharatiya Janata Party, Mr. Velagapudi Ramakrishna, MLA- Visakha East, Mr. Ch. Ayyannapatrudu, district convenor TDP, Dr. K. Haribabu, former MLA, Mr. Nagendra, city president BJP, Mr. Vasupalli Ganesh Kumar, TDP, and others were present.

EAMCET 2012 held peaceful

The Engineering, Agriculture and Medicine Common Entrance Test (EAMCET) - 2012 was successfully held across the State on Saturday. About 19,300 students in Engineering stream and 5, 130 members in medicine have attended in city limits. All the necessary arrangements have been done by the regional authorities, no student was allowed inside the examination hall even one minute after schedule time for the test. The first key for test would be released on Sunday, and final key with all corrections will be released on May 24. The ranks and marks in EAMCET would be announced as per the directions of the State Government. He said that marks and ranks of EAMCET would be announced on June 1 after giving due weightage to Intermediate marks. Students from remote locations reached the city in advance to overcome the delay. Tight security was beefed up at all the examination centres for smooth conduct of the test. The Engineering test conducted in the morning session and medicine and Agriculture stream in the afternoon session. Dr. Venkata Subbaiah, Regional Coordinator Visakhapatnam inspected various centres in city during the test schedule.

2,000 more buses to APSRTC

The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) will have 2,000 buses in the current financial year, which include 25 buses for the Visakha region, said executive director (operations) GV Ramana Rao on Friday. Revealing the details at a brochure release on AC buses operation, he said, about 25 buses inlcuding 3 luxury, 15 metro luxury, Palle Velugu and six ordinary services allotted to Visakhapatnam region. East Godavari district will have 33 buses fleet and Srikakulam and Vizianagaram district 15 each. 1000 shut down buses will be replaced by these 2000 services throughout the State with Rs. 100 crore funds sanctioned by the Government, he added. Some of the services will be on road by September and next by January. The link tickets will be launched on Saturday for this region, the occupancy ratio is increased by six per cent, Mr. Rao stated. Mr. Y. Jagadeesh, Regional Manager, Visakhapatnam, Mr. A. Krishna Rao, ED and other crew were present at the brochure release session.

CPI-M seeks RR package to Pharmacity villagers

Mr. S. Ramesh, executive member, district wing of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI-M) strongly opposed the activity of development of Jawaharlal Nehru Pharma City in Parawada mandal and demanded to shift the villagers to better living sources. Speaking to press conference at his office on Thursday, he said, there were no RR packages so far and the management failed to implement the commitments that were given at the time of land acquisition. As per the regulations, industry cannot be set up within 500 meters arena of any village, but permissions were given within 50 meters area. Villagers of Tadi, Tanam could not bear the air pollution and water pollution and are on demand for shifting them to rehabilitation colonies with all common facilities. He condemned the statement of Mr. P. Ramesh Babu, local MLA that he doesn't aware of this serious issue after completing three years of his tenure. It is very unfortunate that, that those industries rejected in Hyderabad are being shifted to Visakhapatnam, he mentioned. The agitation will become serious mood, if the problem is not solved within two weeks, the CPM member warned. He was joined by Mr. Sri Rama Murthy and Mr. Satyanarayana, members of Pharmacity.

Aganwadis state meet in June

The Statewide convention of Andhra Pradesh Anganwadi Workers and Helpers Union affiliated to Centre for Trade Unions (CITU) would be held in Visakhapatnam from June 29, announced Ms G. Kumari General Secretary. Revealing the details to newsmen on Thursday here she said, this convention will discuss issues pertaining to Aganwadi workers and helpers including minimum wages, retirement benefits, insurance and to identify them as government employees. The Association is opposing the Government's plan to dilute the ICDS and handover to outsourcing, she said. About 400 Anganwadi workers and helpers would be attending the proposed 7th convention and continued for the next three days. She alleged that the government has so far not implemented the directions of the Apex Court to set up more Aganwadi centres to provide nutritious food to pregnant women and children below six years. All the resolutions will be declared at a public meeting on July 1 ie on the final day. Ms. Nagaseshu, working president, Ms. Kalavathi and Ms Satyaveni, Ms. Lakshmi were also present.

Work shop on film making

Noted Cinematographer Mr. MV Raghu is organising a five day workshop on film making in Vizag from June 1. Revealing the details of the workshop at a press conference on Thursday, Mr. Raghu said, it would be most useful to the interested ones. During the five day course, three days would be theory and rest of the days on field training. The city has full potentiality, but utilisation of technology in proper way is most important. All the 24 frames will be introduced to the participants including photography, direction, modulation, script writing, sound recording, etc. On the last two days virtual practicals be given on various latest equipment. Renown stage artist, comedian Mr. Kallu Chidambaram, thanked the legendary cinematographer who worked with talented directors like K. Viswanadh, Vamsi, Jandhyala etc. Having introduced number of new faces to the silver screen from Vizag, he is extending his lovingness towards the art, he is conducting workshop here. Through such workshops number of good technicians will come out and so that movie lovers can get good films, he added. Mr. Narava Prakasa Rao, hon. secretary, Vizag Film Society and others present at the conference.

Steel Secretary Inaugurates New Facilities of RINL Expansion

Sri DRS Chaudhary, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Steel today inaugurated the Caster Shop in New Steel Melt Shop (SMS 2) and Air Separation Unit (ASU 4) as part of 6.3 Mtpa capacity of RINL-Visakhapatnam Steel Plant costing around Rs.12,500 Crores. The two facilities were built at a cost of around Rs 800 crores.
Sri Chaudhary arrived at RINL yesterday on a two day visit and taken around the production and expansion units today by Sri AP Choudhary, CMD and other Directors of RINL. Secretary, Steel visited the Model Room, Awards gallery, Coke Oven Battery, Blast Furnace, Wire Rod Mill 1 & 2 and planted trees at dedication Park inside the plant premises.
After visiting the plant, Steel Secretary held discussions with the top management on the issues related to strategic initiatives, expansion, issue related to employees and local.
Speaking on the occasion, the Steel Secretary congratulated RINL collective for running the plant in a “Very Efficiently” and appreciated the maintenance practices in the plant which he termed as “Very High”. He advised the RINL management to fully capitalize the advantages of the coastal location of the plant as no steel plant in the country is having such advantage. He also advised to go for a captive jetty in order to take full advantage of material logistics. He said that the Government of India is fully supporting RINL in acquiring iron ore mines to strengthen the raw material security. RINL should aggressively pursue its growth plan and raw material securitization, a vital area for RINL, he suggested.
He mentioned that listing of RINL will be a gain not only to the Company but also to the government. He alienated the fears that listing of 10% shares in RINL lead to privatization but in fact enhance “Corporate Governance”.
Sri AP Choudhary, CMD expressed his gratitude for the visit of Steel Secretary and thanked the Ministry of Steel for its continuous support and guidance in taking the plant to newer heights.
Steel Secretary and Joint Secretary later held discussions with Steel Executive Association, Recognised union leaders and INTUC leaders.
Dr Dalip Singh, Joint Secretary, Steel accompanied the Steel Secretary during his visit to RINL.
Sri P Madhusudan, Director (Finance), Sri TK Chand, Director (Commercial), Sri YR Reddy, Director (Personnel), Sri NS Rao, Director (Projects), Sri B Siddhartha Kumar, CVO, Executive Directors and General Managers of the Company took part in the discussions.

Expenditure review panels formed

The expenditure review panels were formed to look after the financial activities for the ongoing bypoll in the State on Wednesday. As per the directions of the Mr. Bhanvar Lal, State Election Commissioner and HS Brahma, Election Commissioner over video conference, Mr. Lav Agarwal, District Collector and Returning Officer announced that Mr. Robin Choudhary has been appointed as observer for election expenditure, Mr. James T Singh as nodal officer, Mr. VVS Ramavatharam and Mr. S Nagabushanam as his assistants. Mr. Lal further mentioned that four teams of videographers have been appointed for four mandals in Payakaropeta constituency. Similarly, four flying squads, one video viewing team, one accounting team, expenditure monitoring control room, call center and four static teams have been formed at the check posts to work round the clock. Mr. Girija Shankar, Joint Collector, Ms. Harichandana, Assistant Collector, Mr. Nageswara Rao, AJC, Mr. Shariff, DRO and others present.

URV demands to resolve water disputes with Odisha

The Uttarandhra Rakshana Vedika headed by Mr. Siva Shankar, demanded the State Government to resolve all inter-State water disputes pending with Odisha at the earliest. Referring to the newsmen here on Wednesday, he said, make the deal with Odisha as done with Maharashtra for Pranahita- Chevella project in New Delhi recently. The URV president further stated that the unsolved water agreements will cause problems to drinking water and agriculture. Pending disputes of Vamsadhara, Nagavali and Bahuda projects were remain unsolved for aegis. Though 90 per cent of the geographical arena in Ganjam district merged in Odisha State from Vizagapatam in 1936, since then the water issues were remain unsolved, he added. He recollected the mutual agreement took place between Mr. N. Sanjeeva Reddy (the then Chief Minister of AP) and Mr. Biju Patnaik (the then Chief Minister of Orissa) in 1962 stating equal share of water on all the projects, was not yet implemented. Later one more agreement was done in 2005 during Congress tenure, which is still remain pending. Mr. Siva Shankar, appealed to Mr. Kiran Kumar Reddy, Chief Minister to initiate steps to settle all inter- state disputes in this regard. Mr. Ganesh and Mr. Karun, members of the URV also present.

Aim at win in bypoll : CM

Mr. Kiran Kumar Reddy, Chief Minister called the party cadre to aim at the win in Payakaraopeta bypoll. Addressing the party cadre at the S. Rayavaram mandal, he said, the present bypoll is very prestigious to the party for its succeess. Earlier, he received warm welcome at the Visakhapatnam Airport on Wednesday by Mr. B.Satyanarayana, President, State Congress Party, Mr. Ganta Srinivasa Rao, Minister for Ports and Infrastructure, Mr. P. Balaraju, Minister for Tribal Welfare and others. Not much District officials except security were present due to election code in the district. During his short stay at the airport he advised the party cadre to act for the success. Later, he garlanded the statue of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi at Old Gajuwaka, later he went to S. Rayavaram. He was joined by Mr. Dronamraju Srinivas, Whip, Mr. K. Murali, Minister for Health Education, Mr. Ch. Venkataramaiah, MLA- Gajuwaka, Mr. P. Ramesh Babu, MLA- Pendurthy, Mr. M. Srinivasa Rao, MLA- Bheemili, Mr. UV Ramana Murthy Raju (Kannababu), MLA- Yelamanchili, Mutyala Papa, MLA- Narsipatnam, Gantyala Sumana, Congress contestant, B. Jhansi Lakshmi, MP- Vizianagaram and others at the congress cadre meet.

SRI DRS CHAUDHARY, SECRETARY, STEEL MAIDEN VISIT TO RINL-VSP

Sri DRS Chaudhary, IAS, of 1977 batch, MP cadre, Secretary Steel arrived to very warm welcome today on his maiden visit to RINL-Visakhapatnam Steel Plant which is recently expanded to 6.3 Mtpa.
Sri DRS Chaudhary, Secretary, Steel had a detailed review of the performance of the company including expansion, strategic initiatives, CSR activities etc., He appreciated RINL for meeting international norms on several fronts including techno economic parameters like water consumption, energy consumption, environment etc., He shared that RINL-VSP is pride of Government of India and has got good reputation among PSUs. He advised RINL collective to strive for emerging as the best steel plant in the world. He also advised that after the full capacity expansion, RINL should further excel. He expressed his happiness that RINL collective has the mettle and strength to achieve it. In the current scenario the organization success or failure largely depended on CSR activities he added. He suggested RINL to take up more number of CSR activities to improve the social upliftment of the people in and around the plant and its neighboring areas.
Sri AP Choudhary explained that out of eleven bench marks set by the Ministry of Steel, RINL is matching to around 4 to 5 parameters and said that plan is made to achieve the remaining in next 3 to 4 years.
Dr Dalip Singh, Joint Secretary, Steel accompanied the Steel Secretary in his visit to RINL-VSP. Sri P Madhusudan, Director (Finance), Sri TK Chand, Director (Commercial), Sri YR Reddy, Director (Personnel), Sri NS Rao, Director (Projects), Sri B Siddhartha Kumar, CVO present during the discussions. EDs and General Managers have also attended the meeting with Secretary Steel.
Secretary Steel will visit the Plant including operating units and expansion units like New Blast Furnace-3, New Steel Melt Shop etc., Steel Secretary’s visit to RINL attaches significance as products from new units will hit the market shortly.
Blast Furnace - 3 which is commissioned on 27th April 2012 has started production and now it is getting stabilized.
PHOTO Captions: 1) Sri DRS Chaudhary, Secretary, Steel arrived to a warm welcome at Hill Top Guest House today.
2) Sri DRS Choaudhary, Secretary, Steel addressing the senior management of RINL as Dr Dalip Singh, Joint Secretary, Steel and Sri AP Choudhary, CMD, RINL are looking on.

RINL PRESENTS “RECOGNITION LETTER” TO STEEL PLANT EMPLOYEES UNION

RINL-Visakhapatnam Steel Plant today handed over the “Letter of Recognition” to the Steel Plant Employees Union (SPEU) (Regd No.D-597/82) which secured highest number of votes in the elections held on 22.05.2010 at a function organized today at T&D Centre Auditorium.
Sri R Ranjan, Executive Director (Works) handed over the letter of recognition Sri D Adinarayana, General Secretary of SPEU and Sri N Rama Rao, President of SPEU. The recognition is valid for a period of two years with effect from 27th April 2012.
Sri PK Das, All India CITU Federation General Secretary, Sri VV Rama Rao, AP State AITUC Hony. President, Sri Ch. Narasinga Rao, CITU State President addressed the gathering.
Senior officers of RINL and a host of trade union leaders and their representatives attended the function.

TDP demands to relieve Venkatram Reddy

The Telugu Desam Party demands the State Government to relieve Mr. G. Venkatram Reddy, who involved in land probe issue in Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority immediately. Speaking to newsmen, Mr. B. Satyanarayana Murthy, former minister on Tuesday, he demanded to relieve him with immediate effect, who is currently Collector Srikakulam as District Election Officer of Srikakulam in view of ensuing Narasannapet bypoll. He appreciated the CBI to file a charge sheet on Mr. Reddy, in abuse of his official position and inpursuances of criminal conspiracy in YS Jaganmohan Reddy case. Mr. Reddy had approved the layout of RPCIL violating the rules of Master plan of VUDA, he mentioned. Mr. Murthy demanded N Kiran Kumar Reddy, to give permission to the CBI to probe the irregularities done by the present Srikakulam Collector. He further mentioned that, the charge-sheet reportedly said the RPCIL obtained wrongful gain of 914 acres of land inside the Pharma City and subsequently, the company sold the land by dividing the same into plots and obtained wrongful gain of Rs over 133 crore. He concluded the session with a repeated demand to relieve him for smooth conduction of Narasannapeta bypoll.

VUDA to take up more projects

The official body of the Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority (VUDA) headed by Mr. Shyam Babu, Principal Secretary, Municipal Administration and Urban Development has approved to take up more developmental projects with Rs. 360 crore for 2012-13 on Tuesday. The Committee interested on a highlevel meditation centre proposed by Vipasana International Dhayana Society to be set up at the beach road, beautification of the beach road from city to Bheemili, Buddhist culture be propagated through establishing Arama centres, exhibition at Totlakonda. Allocation of funds for the welfare activities for SC, ST and disabled sections has been adopted for the first time and approved in the meeting. Later this committee visited Jogging Track, Kailasagiri, and planted saplings near the track. Mr. Kona Sashidhar, Vice- chairman, VUDA, District Collectors Mr. Lav Agarwal (Visakhapatnam), Mr. M. Veerabrahmaiah (Vizianagaram), Mr. G. Venkatram Reddy (Srikakulam), Mr. B. Ramanjaneyulu (Commissioner- Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Coprporation), Mr. B. Purushottam Reddy, Director, Town and Country Planning were also present at the session.

Exchange of trade mission with CII : US Consul General

The Consul General of US, Katherine S Dhanani, announced that they were interested in exchange of trading activities with Confederation of Indian Industry to establish more business in Visakhapatnam, one of the fastest growing cities in te World. Addressing the industrialists at an Interactive Session with Consulate General of USA on Monday, organised by CII, she asked the industry to make a plan for the Exchange mission between Visakhapatnam and US. Mr. James Golsen, Commerce Officer, US Consultate opined that Vizag has good potential to establish more industries including medical, hospital, life sciences, energy, minerals etc. By conducting intereactive sessions will clear the hurdles, he added. Multinational industries are very much interested to start their activities here, provided the common aminities be fulfilled. He indicated the industry to establish one-to-one interaction for specific proposals on trade and investment. Mr. Matthew Stannard, Vice-Consul General of USA, clarified on issues pertaining to processing of visa and said that US Consulate will continue working on simplification and expeditious issue of visa while adhering to the rules on the same. Later the US Consul team has clarified most of the querries raised by CII members on H1, B1, visa, trade and investment. Mr. TK Chand, President, CII Vizag chapter, has been working to present the status of Vizag before the US consul team. He presented this city as Goa of the East, largest city in the entire east coast after Chennai and Kolkata. Mr. G. Sambasiva Rao, vice-president, CII Vizag chapter and members of the CII - Vizag chapter participated in the interactive session.

First ABC in AP opened

The US Consul General, Katherine Dhanani opened first American Business Centre (ABC) in the State opened here on Monday at a programme held in the evening. Stating the importance of the centre, she said, the purpose of it is to reach out to the business community in two tier cities like Vizag, where the US official services are not present physically. ABC is jointly promoted by US Commercial Service and the Vizagapatam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI). The ABC will start it's activities at VCCI- Siripuram temporarily. It is most beneficial to the industries looking for their establishment at US and vice versa and both the countries can benefit from sharing expertise and resources, she mentioned. Mr. Ganta Srinivasa Rao, Minister for Ports and Infrastructure thanked the US Consul General to establish ABC in Vizag, which will provide official information on US companies. Mr. James Golsen, Commerce Officer, US Consultate and other members present at the inaugural session.

Tributes to Alluri

Vizagites paid tributes to the renown freedom fighter who created awareness among the illeterate tribals in the district during the freedom struggle on Monday. On the occasion of his death anniversary, the activists of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) demanded the State Government to name this District on Alluri on the occasion. Garlanding the statue of Alluri Seetarama Raju, at Seethammadhara junction, Mr. K. Haribabu, former MLA, said, it is the responsibility of MLAs and MPs to pressurise the Govenment on the issue. The BJP is working on various issues in creating awareness among the tribals and residents of other remote locations. He further demanded that the locations associated with Alluri be developed as tourism centres to bring the notice of the commonman. Mr. Nagendra, president, BJP city wing and other activists also present.

Mr. Dronamraju Srinivas, Whip welcomed the scholars to do research on the life history on Alluri and their associates. Speaking at the occasion of paying tributes to Alluri at RK beach on Monday, he said, the Visakhapatnam proud to be having association with such personalities, who studied at Mrs. AVN College. He created sensation in those days by using traditional weapons against the high profile British. Most of the tribals in Vizag and East Godavari districts were followed him to get their rights, he added. Representatives of ruling Congress party also present.

Railway test held first time in Vizag 7,000 candidates appeared

For the first time, the Railway Recruitment Cell (RRC) conducted a written test for Group D posts in Visakhapatnam on Sunday. It is reported that, so far these test were conducted in Bhuvaneshwar, where the students from Visakhapatnam region were attacked physically by locals. After many agitations and memorandums to Railway Ministry, the Vizagites got good chance on Sunday. About seven thousand candidates appeared for the test in various centres in the city. The same procedure will be continued for the next three Sundays, according to the sources. The activists seeking a special Railway Zone at Visakhapatnam were successful to some extent by getting this test in Vizag. The RRC is holding this test for beyond 70,000 candidates in Bhubaneshwar, Puri and Berhampur apart from Vizag. The vacant posts will be filled in Group D category through this test in East Coast Railway.

Cancer screening camp in KGH

To create awareness on the need of diagnosing cancer at an early stage, the King George Hospital (KGH) is organising a five day Cancer Screening Camp begins on May 7 at the KGH, announced Dr. P. Shyam Prasad, Superintendent. According to him, as part of their efforts to save the life of a patient, this screening camp would be held from 9 am to 12 noon at Room No 9, at OP Block and will continue till May 11. People experiencing lumps in breasts, oozing from the breast, discharing etc., are advised to contact the screening centre. It is an awareness camp that conducts monthly, he added. Women in the age group below 45 years, having family history of cancer and subsequent symptoms should visit the camp and do check up for better health.

 

Brahmin Assn to distribute textbooks

The Vizag Brahmins’ Welfare Society is going to distribute text books to the economically backward Brahmin community on June 10, according to Mr. TSR Prasad, Hon. President of the society. Speaking to newsmen on Saturday, he said, Brahmin community blesses the rest of society to be live happily without seeking any profit. Most of the people in this community are economically backward, so the above organisation has taken up this step to distribute textbooks, and give the awards to the merit students of Class X and Intermediate. Text books will be distributed to all the classes till Post Graduation, he added. The interested Brahmin students are requested to send their applications to get the text books before May 26. Further details can be had from mobile numbers 9440227894 and 9299996729.

Music fest on Atreya tunes on May 7

On the occasion of noted lyricist Atreya's birth anniversary, in the name of Evaro Ravali- Nee Hrudayam Kadilinchali, announced Mr. Ganti Murali, Secretary, Atreya Memorial Kalapeetham. Speaking at the press conference on Saturday, at Vinoda Vedika, VJF Seethammadhara, he said, this cultural festival will be inaugurated by Mr. Ganta Srinivasa Rao, Minister for Ports and Infrastructure and Mr. Dronamraju Srinivas, Whip also join the fest. Tollywood singers Nitya Santoshini, Sahiti and others to entertain the audience with 24 songs of Atreya, he mentioned. This organisation is serving the poor by providing food, clothes and other minimal needs. Mr. Konathala Raju, Mr. Chenna Tirumala Rao also present at the session.

Cost Efficiency is need of hour

Sri P Madhusudan, Director (Finance), RINL, Visakhapatnam Steel Plant said that cost efficiency has become a major factor for survival of any organization in an age of fierce competition. Therefore, Cost Auditing assumed great significance, he added.
Sri Madhusudan presided over inauguration of a seminar session on recent developments on “Cost Accounting Record Rules & Cost Audit Report Rules” organized by Visakhapatnam Chapter of Cost Accountants & Ukkunagaram Institute of Cost Accountants of India in association with RINL-VSP today at T & D Centre Auditorium. Speaking on the occasion, Sri Madhusudan said during the last two decades there is dynamic change in the business environment and it is now no more a regulated regime and it has become dynamic and uncertain. He described globalization as a double edge sword which has thrown up opportunities and challenges. He said that most of the corporate managements are embarking upon cost efficiency to sustain growth in the highly competitive business environment.
Sri JK Puri, Past President of Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICAI) said that tremendous developments have been taken place in the profession of Cost and Audit management and a new wave of work areas have been developed to enhance the contribution by this profession. He said that cost efficiency largely depended on systematically measuring the cost and added cost control and record rules are very vital for achieving cost efficiency.
Sri BB Goyal, Advisor (Cost), Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Govt. of India in his lecture session highlighted the new provisions of Cost Accounting, Record Rules 2011 and Cost Audit Report Rules 2011 and its applicability and compliance needs.
Sri BR Prabhakar, Chairman, Southern India Regional Council (SIRC), Sri SC Mohanty, Member of SIRC in their speech said that cost management plays a vital role in measuring the competency and efficiency of any organization and advised that the government should concentrate on research to benefit the society at large. They mentioned that 39 cost accounting standards have been identified by ICAI to enhance the profession.
About 300 members of the Institutions and other dignitaries of RINL participated in the inaugural session.
Sri Sanyasi Rao, AGM (F&A) and members of SIRC, ICAI and Sri N Ramana Murthy, Secretary, Vizag Chapter of ICAI welcomed the gathering. Sri Sridhar, President of Ukkunagaram ICAI introduced the guests.

Children Perform 'PADA PUJA' to Parents on the eve of 'ESWARAMMA DAY'

6th May is observed as Eswaramma day in more than 120 countries, the vardhanthi of Smt.Eswaramma, the divine mother of Bhagavan Sri Sathya Saibaba.
As part of observing the Eswaramma day, the children of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant have performed a unique programme, 'PADA PUJA' to parents on this solemn day, today, under the aegis of Ukkunagaram Sri Sathya Sai Seva Samithi. The programme was inaugurated by chief guest Mrs. SASIKALA, Vice-President, Visteel Mahila Samithi alongwith Mrs. SARADA RAO, Vice-President, Visteel Mahila Samithi and Sri NS RAO, Convener, sri sathya sai seva samithi and Director-Projects of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant on Sunday.
Around 87 children washed the feet of their parents with utmost devotion at the backdrop of chanting of 'Purusha Suktam'. Later, amidst chanting of 'Sri Sathya Sai Astotharam', children performed puja for their parent's feet with 108 flowers. later the children adored them with garlands and felicitated them with a Shawl.
The Pada Puja Utsavam was organised by Sri Satya Sai Seva Organisation with a view to preserve and propagate the rich Indian culture and tradition. It was mainly organised to revive the 'Human Values' as advocated by Bhagavan Sri Sathya Saibaba. The parents were moved at the touching affection of the children.
Speaking on the occasion, the chief guest Mrs. Sasikala complimented the unique efforts of sri sathaya sai seva organisations in protecting the age old rich Indian traditions and imparting human values to the children at an early age. she called upon everyone to actively associate with sri sathya sai seva organisations in their service activities.
at the end, all the participants Chanted SRI SAI GAYATRI 11 times for Universal Peace, Harmony and growth of Visakhapatnam Steel plant.
The Pada Puja was coordinated by mrs. jaya kameswari, the mahila spiritual coordinator of Ukkunagaram sri sathya sai seva Samithi.

Dharna against MLA, his son

The representatives of ‘Dalitha Girijana and Mahila Sanghala Aikya Vedika’ staged a dharna with a demand to take action against Mr. UVR Raju - Kanna babu, MLA (Yelamanchili) and his son Mr. Sukumara Varma on Friday on misappropriation of the SC,ST developmental aids. Mr. B. Mallayya, reprensetative of the above society alleged that both MLA and his son involved and misappropriation of funds in purchasing 17 four wheelers under the Industrial Promotion Policy (IIPP) programme for 2010-15 allotted to SC, ST employed persons. They staged dharna at District Collectorate and pointed out that fraudulently gained Rs. 97,58,210 by way of subsidy under IIPP scheme. The issue of purchasing buses under the scheme on benami names by the MLA. They demanded action on the MLA and his son under section 3(1) (IX) of SC and ST (Prevention of atrocities) Act for their alleged misuse of scheme intended for the SCs and STs. Mr. A Kondababu, Kusuma, Kothapalli Venkata Ramana and others also present.

F-block owners demands facilities

The Autonagar F-Block Industrial Plot Owners’ Welfare Association has demanded the Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (APIIC) to provide necessary facilities and minimal needs like proper roads, drains, power supply and water to their plots. Speaking to press on Friday, Dr. NRS Prasad, president of the Association, said that the APIIC has sold 41 plots out of the total 60 plots to the upcoming entrepreneurs in survey numbers 42 and 48, Tunglam village in 2009. Due to non availability of minimal facilities, these industries could not open their shutters so far for business. These owners are forced to pay interests on the dead capitals, he alleged. No developmental activities were on even after this society met Union Minister of State for HRD Mrs. Purandheswari, state ministers and local MLAs, he pointed out. The APIIC failed to respond to the repeated pleas and they would start agitation on May 10 as a last hope, he mentioned. Mr. Prasanth Kumar, Secretary, Mr. Krishna Prasad, Mr. Vijay Kumar and Mr. Babu also present.

Fourth Estate Protection Force Day celebrated

Protection of Fourth Estate is necessary to play journalists good role in nation building, opined Mr. Dronamraju Srinivas, Whip and MLA- Visakha South on Thursday. Addressing the Fourth Estate Protection Force Day celebrations at Vizag Journalists Forum, he said, the journalists are being dictated by the managements, but they need more freedom in presenting the articles. Throughout the globe, the press is a right place along with the statuatory bodies, but most of the organisations failed to maintain the duties assigned to them, he added. The media is very powerful in educating public about antipeople policies of governments, he said. Press due to its freedom is capable of de-stabilising the governments at times, he added. Mr. N. Sai Baba, Rtd SP (ACB) adviced the scribes to follow regulations and fundamentals of the journalism. Mr. Bobby Vardhan, Media Coordinator, Andhra University, Mr. Shariff, Advocate and others present.

AUCET 2012 results announced Women tops in most tests

Dr. PVGD Prasad Reddy, Rector, Andhra University has announced the results of AUCET - 2012 admission into 1st year PG Courses in Andhra University campus and other affiliated colleges on Thursday. Women students stood top in most of the categories in AUCET. He said that the counselling schedule for admission into various courses of AUCET-2012 would commence on May 31. The rank cards along with the counselling schedule would be dispatched to the candidates soon and can also be downloaded from the websites. Among all the tests held for admissions into post graduate science courses D Usha Sowjanya secured highest marks while K Syamala stood first in arts, commerce and management courses. In all 24,777 candidates who appeared for both of the entrance examinations 24,377 were declared qualified. If all the streams -engineering, science and arts, commerce and management are taken into consideration K Syamala who took the test for admission into Telugu course achieved highest score by securing 82.75 marks out of 90 marks and she was also a topper among the women aspirants. D.Usha Sowjanya who opted for microbiology secured 78.75 marks while G.Satya Sai Krishna Priya who is seeking admission into five-year integrated course in engineering got 76.50 marks. Dr. K. Veeraiah, Pricincipal Science college, Dr. K. Samrajya Lakshmi, Registrar and other officials present. The results have also been posted on the websites www.andhrauniversity.info/doa,www.aucet.sssoutions.co.in and www.aucet.sssolutions. co.in. The results of undergraduate courses were already released in the last week.

Last date for EAMCET-12 extended : Convenor Ramana Rao

The last date for the submission of filled in applications for the admission into the first year of Engineering and Medical colleges (EAMCET 2012) is extended to May 9 ( with Rs. 10,000 fine) , announced Prof. NV Ramana Rao, its convenor. Speaking to newsmen here, he said, for the first time online submission is allowed, which resulted number of applications were received from abroad too. The test is scheduled on May 12, hall tickets can be downloaded from the website, candidates are advised to paste one passport photo and thumb impression on the hall ticket, and attestation by a Gazzetted officer is mandatory, he added. A total of 2,200 application had been received from Australia, US, Norway and Saudi Arabia. About 749 centres in the State are allotted, no electronic equipment is allowed including mobile, calculator etc., All the necessary arrangements are going on for smooth conduction of the test, he mentioned. There will be one invigilator for every 20 candidates, an observer for every 500 candidates, a special observer for every regional centre and an enforcement officer for each test centre, he said. He asked the candidates to report at their respective test centres 45 minutes before the commencement of the examination and even one minute late would not be entertained. Prof G K Viswanath, Co-Convenor, Prof K Venkata Subbaiah, Regional Co-ordinator of Visakhapatnam were also present.

CBI enquiry on VSP mishap sought

The activists of Uttarandhra Political Joint Action Committee (JAC) demanded the Government to order a CBI enquiry on the incident held at Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (VSP). Speaking at the Ksheerabhishekam ceremony to Tenneti Vishwanatham statue (who fought for the setting up of a Steel Plant in Vizag), Mr. J T Rama Rao, president of the JAC pointed out that it was a result of negligence of the plant management. He alleged that negligence of safety measures resulted this mishap. Earlier, the members of the JAC cleaned the statue at Jagadamba junction with milk. It was not the first occasion, there were number of accidents were registered earlier at the same plant. The JAC demands for the ex-gration of Rs. 20 lakh to the kin of the contract employees who killed.

CBI enquiry on VSP mishap sought

The activists of Uttarandhra Political Joint Action Committee (JAC) demanded the Government or order a CBI enquiry on the incident held at Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (VSP). Speaking at the Ksheerabhishekam ceremony to Tenneti Vishwanatham statue (who fought for the setting up of a Steel Plant in Vizag), Mr. J T Rama Rao, president of the JAC pointed out that it was a result of negligence of the plant management. He alleged that negligence of safety measures resulted this mishap. Earlier, the members of the JAC cleaned the statue at Jagadamba Junction with milk. It was not the first occasion, there were number of accidents were registered earlier at the same plant. The JAC demands for the ex-gration of Rs. 20 lakh to the kin of the contract employees who killed.

Getting ready for by-poll : Collector

In view of the ensuing Payakaraopet byelection, Mr. Lav Agarwal, the District Election Officer and Collector told the reporters that all the neccessary arrangements for the by-poll are going good. He visited the proposed vote counting centre at the Dr. LB College on Tuesday. He said that by the directions of State Election Commissioner, the local bodies are taking all the steps for smooth conduction of Payakaraopeta by-poll. During his visit, he inspected the EVMs storage and strong rooms to keep other election confidential material. Later he visited Bangarammapalem in S Rayavaram mandal to inspect polling centres. A high level meeting conducted with the election officers within the purview of the Constituency. He directed them to look after the election code of conduct whithout any deviation. District Collector was accompanied by Mr. Girija Shankar, Joint Collector, Additional Joint Collector UCG Mr. Nageswara Rao, Ms. D. Harichandana, Assistant Collector and other officials during the visit.

May Day held in city

The Trade Unions of various organisations in city observed May Day on Tuesday. Flagged off the rallies and sessions in various locations of the city to create awareness on unsolved inssues among its fellow colleagues. The Centre for Trade Unions (CITU) trade union wing of Communist Party of India (Marxist)- CPIM, AICTU trade union wing of Communist Party of India (CPI), Telugunadu Trade Union, and other observed the day with their future targets. Speaking on the occasion Mr. Ajay Sharma of CITU told the party activists to continue their protest until they get result. He frays the State Governemnt for introducing useless policies, it is the responsibility of the Government to implement Trade Union Acts in all the Public and Private sector industries. Most of the industries in the city are not caring those Acts.Mr. Ch. Narasinga Rao, of CPM pointed out the PCPIR, land acquisition made the fishermen shelterless and jobless. All such people are fighting for their livelihood and have no option but to intensify their struggles to get their rights fulfilled as the governments were favouring the rich and the multinationals neglecting the poor. He demanded the State Government to make the minimal wage for any worker be Rs. 10,000. Number of rallies were taken out by associations of Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC), Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), Andhra University Staff and Employees Union, East Coast Railway Employees Association, etc. on the occasion.

ACB files FIR on five in VUDA scam

The Anti- Corruption Bureau (ACB) filed FIR against three employees of Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority (VUDA) and two officials of Sub-Registrar’s Office (SRO) here on Monday. According to sources, Mr. L. Krishna, district president Telugu Yuvatha filed a case in the ACB court on March 28 to go through the facts involved in it. As per the directions of the court, ACB in turn filed a case under the PCV Act of 1988, 11, 13(1) D, read with 13(2) and IPC 120 B, 34 and 109 and submitted the details to the court on Monday. The investigation in all aspects, and filed FIR against Mr. K. Karun Kumar (retired administrative officer ), Mr. K. Lakshmi Narasimha Murthy (AO), Mr. M. Yerrabbalu, Junior Assistant (VUDA), Mr. R. Mukunda Rao, Joint Sub Registrar -1, Mr. B. Ramesh Babu, Joint Sub Registrar, Sub- Registrar Office (Super Bazar). Prime allegations in this regard, was that, property sold at Rs. 118 per sq. yard, in Survey Number 1008 in Pandurangapuram, which costs beyond that (tentative price in actual market is Rs. 1 lakh). All the accused took the balance of the stamp duty to the tune of Rs 4.5 crore. The Vigilance Department has already begun investigation.

Collector asks to conduct Revenue sports in Vizag

Mr. Lav Agarwal, District Collector, requested the State Revenue Department to conduct Revenue Sports in Vizag. While congratulaing the winners of Statelevel Revenue sports held recently in Chittoor on Monday, he said, the State level sporting events will develop inter-personal realtionships. He congratulated the Vizag district for getting second place in state level sporting events. Complimenting the winners, he hoped that Vizag would stand first in all fronts, including Revenue sports for which that he would extend all possible support in providing necessary material and kits. The function organised by the District Revenue Officers’ Association at the Collectorate. Mr. E. Sri Rama Murthy, President, VRO's Association, Mr. Girija Shankar, Joint Collector, Mr. Simhadri Rao, team leader, Mr. Sharief, DRO, Mr. Nageswara Reddy, Administrative Officer and others present at the greeting ceremony.

Sri Sri writings created awareness among commonman : DS

Legendary writer Srirangam Srinivasa Rao (Sri Sri) created awareness on various issues among the society, said, Mr. Dronamraju Srinivas, Government Whip. He paid rich tributes to Sri Sri on the occasion of his 102nd birthday celebrations at beach road on Monday at a function organised by Ghantasala Sports and Cultural Association, later addressed the gathering. He invited the students to do more research work of Sri Sri writings and also to the Universities in the state. Born and brought up in Vizag, Sri Sri had penned all the activities in his daily life. He further stated that Sri Sri made many valuable writings about the lives of middle class people keeping in mind the present scenario of society at that time itself. Sri Sri writings were also screened on silver screen, some of them are Telugu Veera Levara in sensational movie Alluri Seetharamaraju and Akalirajyam etc, he added. Noted Cine lyricist Mr. Kasi Viswanath also present at the ceremony.

Sri Choudhary, CMD Calls for Low Cost Steel for Sustainable Growth

Sri AP Choudhary, CMD, RINL-Visakhapatnam Steel Plant stated that the focus should be on producing steel at the lowest cost, as it is prime requisite for not only sustainable growth but also for generation of adequate margins to fund the investments for future capacity additions in the country. Sri Choudhary was addressing a galaxy of leaders from the Steel Industry at the “Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Steel Summit – 2012” on the theme “Indian Steel: Global Competitiveness -- Local Efficiencies” held at New Delhi today.

Sri Beni Prasad Verma, Hon’ble Union Minister of Steel was the Chief Guest and inaugurated the summit. Sri DRS Chaudhary, Secretary, Ministry of Steel, Sri CS Verma, Chairman, SAIL, Sri Navin Jindal, MP and Executive Vice Chairman & MD, Jindal Steel and Power Ltd and Steel Captains of the Industry participated and deliberated on key areas like demand and supply scenario, policy imperatives, global trends, raw material availability, consumption patterns, technology and sustainability etc.
Sri Choudhary said that improvement in techno-economic parameters, such as specific energy consumption, raw material consumption, productivity & yields, waste recycling, waste heat recovery are the relevant areas for industry growth and occupy front seat. Ministry of Steel has rightly identified benchmarking as the key focus area to reorient the various steel making processes through adoption of “Best Available Technology” and “Best Available Practices” to sensitize the various steel producers to achieve the best level of performance with techno-economic parameters, he added.
RINL is a standing example and today it is in a position to compete in the market practically because of its techno-economic supremacy despite being disadvantaged by the lack of captive mines particularly for iron ore, Sri Choudhary pointed out.

The next major challenge is on the raw material front. The steel production is expected to touch the 200 to 250 MT mark by 2020 which would require around 400 MT of iron ore. The reserves would not be in a position to support this level of requirement for long. Hence there is need to curtail the export in the long term interest of the country. The government has already started discouraging exports through higher tariffs, the RINL CMD observed.
Sri Choudhary complimented CII for organizing the Steel Summit at a very appropriate juncture when the Indian Steel Industry is all poised to resume its growth trajectory with a growth of 7% in 2012 and around 9% in 2013.
He said that research indicates that the steel intensity increases exponentially with GDP until the per capita GDP reaches US $ 10,000. China is the glaring testimony to this finding. The steel industry of China during the last decade has grown by over 500% from 120 million tonnes to near 700 million tonnes. The present per capita GDP of China is 9000 plus and the forecast now indicate slowdown of the Chinese steel demand which has till now propelled the World Steel Industry.
Today, India is the fourth largest producer of crude steel globally. The total finished steel production in India from April-February 2012 stood at 64.233 mt, a growth of 6.8% compared to last year. While global crude steel production has crossed 1.5 billion ton in the year 2011, Asia’s share has gone up from 38% in 1998 to 64.7% in the year 2011. Going ahead, it is expected that Global Steel demand will grow at about 3 to 5%. In the 12th Five Year Plant, massive investments to the tune of 1 trillion USD are likely in the infrastructure sector, which will be 10% of the GDP.