BJP ready for solo act

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 30, 2014:  A day after the BJP Telangana unit chief G Kishan Reddy told his party men that they may go it alone, deadlock over BJP-TDP seat sharing still continues in Seemandhra too. BJP AP unit leaders too are now seems to be gearing up to go it alone in the forthcoming polls.

According to reliable sources in BJP, While the saffron party has asked for 7 loksabha and 25 assembly seats in coastal Andhra and Rayalseema regions, TDP is said to have agreed for 3 loksabha and 8 assembly seats.

Not happy with the TDP’s proposal, BJP Andhra Pradesh unit has left the decision over alliance with TDP to the party central leadership. BJP AP unit, president, Kambhampati Haribabu said that they are ready to go to polls alone without any alliance with TDP, if the party leadership asks so.

“Talks are still on. There is a stalemate. We mat get clarity on seat sharing in another 2 days. We have informed the outcome of the talks with our party president and other leaders of central leadership. We are even ready to go it alone without any alliances in AP if our central leadership desires so,” said Haribabu. 

It is reliably learnt that the meetings of BJP national leader Prakash Javdekar with TD leaders in the last week, on seat sharing, has hit a road block,  with both the parties not willing to spare Vizag and Vijayawada seats.

While the TD was willing to give away Tirupathy, Narasapuram and Rajampet seats to BJP, Chandrababu Naidu is not so keen to give away Vizag and Vijayawada seats to the saffron party.

It is learnt that, TD is also ready to give, 5 more assembly seats, but not ready to compromise on the loksabha seats which resulted in a stalemate in the talks between the leaders of both the parties.  TD wanted to let one assembly in every district of coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema regions to the BJP.  

Meanwhile, after TD, the saffron party, BJP, turned out to be a hot favourite destination now a days, for the defectors. In a surprise development, hundreds of activists from various political parties joined BJP Vizag unit at a party workers meeting held on Sunday. Till recently nobody was interested in joining the saffron party.

TD, BJP lock horns over Vizag, YSRC to field either Sharmila or Subba Reddy, No takers for Congress

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 28, 2014:  Vizag loksabha has become a hot seat for all the political parties. Almost all the party chiefs are holding cards to their chest. No party is ready to announce its candidate and keeping each other party guessing.

Both TD and BJP want the seat. BJP wants the seat for its newly appointed Andhra Pradesh unit chief, Kambhampati Haribabu and TD wants it for, Ganta Srinivas Rao who rejoined the party recently.

It is learnt that Ganta Srinivasa Rao rejoined TD quitting Congress only after he was
assured Vizag loksabha seat. It would be interesting to see which party would bag the
seat if the TD-BJP alliance is finalized.

It is reliably learnt that the marathon meetings between BJP national leader Prakash
Javdekar and TD leaders since a few days, on seat sharing, has hit a road block,  with
both the parties not willing to spare Vizag and Vijayawada seats.

While the TD was willing to give away Tirupathy, Narasapuram and Rajampet seats to BJP, Chandrababu Naidu is not so keen to give away Vizag and Vijayawada seats to the saffron party.

And YSRC chief Jagan is still undecided whether to field his sister Sharmila or uncle, YV Subba Reddy. YSRC has almost finalized all assembly seats in Vizag and 4 loksabha seats in north Andhra Pradesh, but, Jagan, kept his options open for Vizag and waiting for TD to announce its candidate.

Interestingly there are no prominent faces in Congress to contest for Vizag loksabha
seat. Though, rajyasabha member T Subbarami Reddy earlier sought the party leadership to give him a chance to contest from Vizag, in the last minute arrangement in a surprise
move, Reddy was nominated to the upper house of the parliament for the third time.

Reddy’s nomination to Rajyasabha, has actually cleared way for former union minister, D Purandheswari to contest fom Vizag. But she decided to quit the Congress and joined
another national party BJP.

 Meanwhile, Purandheswari’s open desire to contest from Vizag on a BJP ticket, if the
party central leadership agrees was expected to open a turf war in Vizag as Haribabu has
been nurturing the constituency since long. However, she was reportedly asked by the
party leadership to stay away from Vizag seat. She is now banking on Vijayawada loksabha seat.

'Local factor' to decide Vizag MP !

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 27, 2014: It looks like leaders are trying to rake up ‘local candidates’ sentiment in the ensuing polls for assembly and loksabha. The sentiment is likely to have its impact on the polls this time around. The ‘local’ feeling among the voters was evident when the PRP candidate in 2009 polls, Palla  Srinivas, a native of Vizag, could secure more than 3 lakh votes. He stood second pushing the strong TD candidate, MVVS Murthy to third.

He lost to the Congress candidate, D Purandheswari, with very little margin of 60,000 votes. It was the feeling ‘local’ that ensured Srinivas, a political novice, get so many votes in lakhs.

TD leader, MVVS Murthy who won Vizag loksabha seat many times earlier too is considered an outsider, who settled in Vizag. Later, Congress MPs, N Janardhan Reddy and D Purandheswari have only come to Vizag just a month before the polls, after their candidatures were announced by Congress party central leadership.  Purandheswari used to prefer visiting Vizag only on the weekends that too not often.

 There were also posters surfaced at various parts of the city, cautioning, all the political party bosses only to field local candidates otherwise vowed to defeat outsiders. Though nobody knows from where these posters originated, the ‘local’ issue has become a talk of the town, especially after the reports emerged YSRC chief, YS Jaganmohan Reddy is contemplating to field either, his uncle YV Subba Reddy or sister Sharmila, both outsiders from Vizag loksabha seat.

Though, the BJP and TD likely candidates for Vizag loksabha seats, Kambhampati Haribabu, Ganta Srinivasa Rao are not the natives of Vizag, both of them have been living here since decades and settled here making Vizag their home.

Both Haribabu and Rao are from Prakasam district. Haribabu, migrated to Vizag long back when he was a student and studied at Andhra University, later established himself as an academician and a successful entrepreneur. Ganta Srinivas Rao too migrated to Vizag in 80s as a student and settled here as a successful entrepreneur before taking a plunge into politics.

“Non locals are actually disturbing the local fabric and culture. Though I have options to contest from Vizag, Anakapalle and Vizianagaram loksabha seats, I will be in the fray from Vizag if other parties field non locals and outsiders. Its unfortunate that non locals are calling the shots here in Vizag,” said Anakapalle MP and newly launched Jai Samaikyandhra Party (JSP), vice president, Sabbam Hari. 

Pawan supports Modi

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 27, 2014 : Ending two week, suspense, after launching Jana Sena, over its future plans, party founder Pawan Kalyan clarified that he or his party would not contest the ensuing polls and called his supporters to vote for good leaders.

Addressing a public meeting- “Youth of the nation-Fight for the nation” at Indira Priyadharshini stadium here on Thursday Kalyan said, “I will not contest polls until I find right and good candidates who can work for society. I could have fielded candidates in these elections too for assembly and parliament seats. But I don’t want to split votes and decided to stay away from polls this time. I'm not contesting in these elections, but please vote for good leaders who are for the development and who are not corrupt. Vote for a party which can rebuild AP effectively,” he said

He also unveiled ‘ISM’ book penned by him having his thoughts about the current political system and party ideology. 

 Interestingly, the actor turned politician, while calling his supporters to wipe off Congress, openly supported BJP prime minister nominee, Narendra Modi.  Jana Sena chief while stating that in the present state, nation needs an effective leadership, said, he has seen leadership qualities in Modi and the BJP leader is fearless.

 “From this platform I want to convey you Shri Narendra Modi Ji. We believe in your defining and definitive leadership.  We would like to see you as our Prime minister. We completely support you,” he said.

Explaining the reason why he met Modi, the actor, said the BJP leader is also fearless like him. “I met Narendra Modi because he doesn’t know what fear is. It doesn’t matter which party he is in. At present, Modi is the only leader in India who can take the country forward without fear,” he added.

  Breaking his silence, over the merger of PRP, that was launched by his elder brother another Tollywood actor, Chiranjeevi, he said he understood under what circumstances his brother has merged PRP with Congress. “My brother might have come under pressure from the MLAs and merged the party. But I never uttered anything about it. Why did I not react during PRP-Congress merger? Well, I believed that some good would come out of it for Telugu people.  But I broke my silence after Congress destroyed AP, after the widespread corruption and the way party divided Andhra Pradesh. We all love my brother. The respect and love towards him remains the same,” he said.

 While explaining the ideology of Jana Sena he also took a dig at Congress high command and YSRC chief Jagan Mohan Reddy. “One of our ideology is that law should be equal to all.  It should not be like if the corrupt and a person who enmasses thousands of crores arrives at a compromise with those in the power, cases against such person should not be diluted or weakened. The same government, supports a CBI officer to fight against a corrupt person asking him to dig the wealth earned through corrupt means  and then when the person, facing corruption charges compromises with the powers that be, then the CBI officer is sent home and do not  get next posting for months. The person also gets bail,” he said indirectly referring to the YSRC chief.

He hoped that, either Congress president Sonia Gandhi or Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh, would explain Seemandhra public under what circumstances, they divided the state. “We will forgive Sonia Gandhi, if she apologises for the way she divided Andhra Pradesh. Am not against the state bifurcation but against the way it was done. Congress held war room discussions for 11 hours for polls strategy but only few minutes for state division,” he said.

Pawan Kalyan also attacked Congress MPs from Coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema regions, for not doing enough during state bifurcation. “Our Seemandhra MPs did nothing during the state division. They should have taken lessons from their counterparts in Telangana region. Our MPs like Kavuris, Rayapatis and Botsa want their contracts and businesses to flourish but not the welfare of the state and Telugus,” he said and added that Jnasena is not against one individual or party. It is against corruption everywhere.

“The war is not against one party. But it is a battle against all who encourage corruption,” he added. 

Polavaram, poll plank

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 26, 2014:  Polvaram multi purpose project still remains a sticky issue even after state bifurcation. Leaders of both states are using it as poll plant and have already started trading heated exchanges.

TRS chief, K Chandrasekhar Rao, who insists, on changing the design, is likely to rake up the issue during his poll campaign to gain an edge over the two national parties Congress and BJP in Telangana.

In fact, leaders of political parties are all busy wooing voters in assembly and lksaabha constituencies by pledging construction of the multi purpose project without any problems from across the border. 

During the Congress leaders Bus Yatra, here in Vizag, both APPCC chief, N Raghuveera Reddy and party campaign committee, chairman, K Chiranjeevi said that nobody can stop the project from materializing and state bifurcation actually would help in completion of the project as it would be fully funded by the Centre.

 He was also furious about KCR’s remarks objecting construction of Polavaram. After apprehensions were raised by BJP national leaders like Arun Jaitely, M Venkaiah Naidu that the Telangana state government, after the state bifurcation, may create hurdles to the completion of the multi crore project, Centre decided to include 7 mandals coming under Bhdharchalam division excluding the temple town, to Andhra Pradesh.

The multi purpose project can provide irrigation water to 7.2 lakh acres in upland areas of coastal Andhra.

Polavaram project is already mired in controversies with governments of Odisha, Chattisgrah and Maharashtra approaching appropriate legal entities to stall the project showing many reasons.

The project is also vital to provide water to Rayalaseema through inter-basin transfer of 45 TMC, to generate 960 MW hydropower, to stabilize and secure the present Godavari and Krishna delta systems, considered the rice bowl of the nation, besides controlling the periodic flood devastation in coastal areas. 

As per the estimates of irrigation experts and the state government Polavaram project submerges 276 villages with an average population  of   642 per village. Of the 276 villages 204 are in the present Khammam district of Telangana.  Out of these 204 villages 121 are in Bhadrachalam Revenue Division and the remaining in Palvancha division.  Bhadhrachalam revenue division was part of East Godavari district in Seemandhra region until 1959.

“Polavaram designs were done by experts in the irrigation field and there is no need to make changes to it. Those opposing inclusion of 7 mandals in Andhra Pradesh should first check their facts. These villages were under East Godavari district before Andhra Pradesh was formed. Nobody can stop the project. We will ensure it is constructed at any cost. It was due to BJP’s fight that, these mandals were included in Andhra Pradesh and the project was renamed as multi purpose project. Otherwise, earlier in the draft AP reorganissation Bill it was mentioned as any normal irrigation project,” said newly appointed, BJP Andhra Pradesh unit, chief, Kambhampati Haribabu. 

Modi meet hurts Chiru

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 22, 2014:  A day after film actor Pawan Kalyan met, BJP prime minister nominee, Narendra Modi in Gujarat, the actor’s elder brother and union tourism minister, K Chiranjeevi on Saturday said he was surprised to learn about the meeting.

Chiranjeevi said of what he knew of his brother, Pawan was secular. Theerfore he was surprised to know that he had met Modi, who oversaw the Gujarat riots 0f 2002.

It would have been appropriate if Pawan Kalyan had met Modi after seeking the latter’s clarification on the Gujarat killings, Chiranjeevi said. He was speaking at the “Meet the Press” organised by the Vizag Journalists Forum (VJF), here on Saturday.  

“Only Rajnath Singh tried to give some clarification on the riots, but there is no attempt from Modi. I don’t know whether my brother knows that or not. But I’m surprised to know as to how Pawan Kalyan, met Modi, who’s charged of Gujarat killings,” said Chiranjeevi.

  The union minister denied any rift in his  family and they are all united. He also said that Pawan Kalyan never objected or expressed displeasure over his decision to merge Praja Rajyam with the Congress.

“All the members in a family need not have same ideology. It’s his decision to form a party and meets those of his choice. He never objected or expressed displeasure over merging PRP with Congress,” said Chiranjeevi.

 He also admitted that the Congress is facing tough time in Andhra Pradesh and they will work with commitment to revive the party. 

Chiru turns Messiah for Congress in Seemandhra!: Move to keep Kapu flock together

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 22, 2014:  Having lost hopes in Andhra Pradesh, Congress seems to be banking on charishma of actor turned politician, K Chiranjeevi, for the party’s survival.

The state bifurcation by Congress-led UPA and the emergence of YSRC in political turf of the state, has sounded a death knell to the Congress in almost every corner of Andhra Pradesh. In many districts, Congress lacked candidates to fight local bodies’ polls.

 Being the campaign committee, chief, Chiranjeevi is being projected as the party ‘charioteer’ at all the meetings, a move seen in the backdrop of both, YSRC and TD wooing Kapus, a dominant caste having good numbers in coastal Andhra regions and some parts of Rayalseema.

“Our leader Sonia Gandhi had nominated Chiranjeevi as the charioteer of the party in the state. We will all work under his leadership to revive the party,” said newly appointed, APPCC chief, N Raghuveera Reddy.

Reddy’s view was also endorsed by, former PCC chief, Botsa Satyanarayana, party manifesto committee chairman and former minister, Anam Ramnarayan Reddy, P Balaraju and everyone during their speeches at the party workers meeting held in Vizag on Saturday.

Chiranjeevi too is using the bus yatra- aimed at infusing confidence among party workers, to build his image. He dropped enough indications in this regard, by time and again stating that he is ‘man of commitment’ and didn’t leave Congress during the troubled times though many suggested him to defect and revive his defunct PRP.

“I have helped Congress, when someone wanted the state government to fall, by voting against the no confidence motion earlier. Trusting that, social justice is possible only with Congress I merged my party with it. And I will be with Congress till my last breath. I’m a man of commitment. Many came to me after union government took the decision to divide the state and asked me to come out of the party and revive PRP. They said I would be the champion in the current situation. But I never heeded to them. Such is my character. Am not like others who go out all for power,” he said at the party workers meeting.

Though, PRP won 16pc vote share in 2009 polls, which was only due to the charishma  of Chiranjeevi, the now defunct party failed in bagging considerable number of seats then. In Vizag district alone the erstwhile PRP won more than 30 pc vote share and bagged maximum number- 4 seats among other districts in the state.  On, Saturday too, many thronged Indira Priyadarshini stadium, where Congress party workers meet was held, to have a glimpse of their matinee idol. 

‘Mega’ boost to Congress, Party workers meet kindles Congress hope of survival

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 22, 2014: After drawing a damp squib in Srikakulam and Vizianagaram on day one of the state Congress leaders Bus Yatra, Vizag party workers meet on Saturday rekindled little hope of party’s survival in the district.

Both APPCC chief Raghuveera Reddy, union tourism minister and AP Congress campaign committee, chief, K Chiranjeevi launched a broadside attack on all the opposition parties, including chief of newly launched Jai Samaikyandhra Party (JSP), N Kiran Kumar Reddy, for their role in dividing the state, at a well attended party workers meet held at Indira Priyadarshini municipal stadium.

In a scathing attack, both the Congress leaders found fault with 7 MLAs and 2 MPs from the district, especially Purandheswari for enjoying power for 10 years and then for dumping the Congress, by jumping the fence overnight after the election schedule was announced.

Raghuveera Reddy termed the forthcoming polls as war for righteousness and Congress leaders as Pandavas and all the other opposition leaders as Kauravas. “I was hurt when the erstwhile PRP MLAs left Congress. It’s very sad that Purandheswari, who was union minister twice, enjoyed power for all these years and left the Congress to join BJP, which had supported state division. Kiran Kumar Reddy kept every one of us in dark. He knows about the decision of state division before anyone knows in the party. Only to save his chair, Kiran Reddy, opposed package to Telangana earlier and which forced the Congress to take decision in favour of state bifurcation after all the political parties gave their consent,” said Chiranjeevi.

He added that both YSRC and TD chiefs gave letters to the union home minister in support of state division. Chiranjeevi said now, in the guise of Samaikyandhra slogan, both Jagan and Kiran are misleading public.

 Raghuveera Reddy questioned TD chief Chandrababu Naidu how can his party ally with BJP that supported and played it’s part in state bifurcation. “TD after it severed ties with BJP led NDA in 2004 has unanimously resolved not to ally with the saffron party ever. But now extending its arms to BJP only for power,” said Reddy.

Earlier talking at a meet the press organised by Vizag Journalists Forum (VJF), the APPCC chief said they are working hard to win 25 loksabha and 175 seats in Andhra Pradesh and saw an opportunity in division for the development of both coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema regions.

He said Congress party would make the state ‘Navyandhra Pradesh’ if voted to power with the provisions of AP Reoarganisation Act of 2014. He further added that the party has received around 130 applications from the aspirants for 15 assembly and 2 loksabha seats in the district. Reddy added that, it’s an opportunity for youngsters, committed second rung leaders to become tomorrow’s leaders. 

Polls add to pollution

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 21, 2014:  Though its boom time for vendors of  election and publicity material for upcoming polls, increased usage of digital flexi banners, posters, huge cutouts having plastic and toxic colours is going to leave behind a huge environmental disaster.

Environmentalists and experts are raising concerns over the increased usage of plastic flexis that are non –bio degradable.  There are around 60 machines in Vizag alone that are working round the clock to meet the publicity material needs of various political parties by making these plastic banners.

Most of the political parties have shunned the paper wall posters and cloth banners, instead opting for plastic posters due to the convenience of their usage. Irrespective of their divergent ideologies, all politicians are unanimous in their choice when it comes to  usage of these vinyl posters.

Though the plastic flexis are more expensive, politicians prefer them as it’s very convenient to fix and then remove without much manpower. While a flexi banner costs between Rs 6 to 8, per square foot, a paper wall poster is much cheaper.

Thousands of such banners are being churned out on orders by hundreds of leaders of political parties.

 “Though it’s a bit of a costly affair, most politicians prefer flexi banners, cutouts, posters that come with a wooden frame. They also look very attractive and glossy than the paper ones. On every occasion to keep in touch with the public, politicians give us orders round the year. But, with these elections our orders have increased manifold since last month. We are working in shifts to meet the demand,” said, Shankar, who makes digital flexi banners on large scale in Srinagar area  

Senior professor at Andhra University’s environmental sciences department, Dr EUB Reddi, observed that the trend is alarming and a legislation should be brought in to control use of flexi banners.

“Many synthetic chemicals and toxic colours are used in printing these flexi banners. They are not degradable or decomposable that will disturb the environment. They also clog the drains and streams. Election Commission should make it mandatory that political parties should use only cloth banners and paper wall posters and restricting this plastic banner usage. EC should also do environment audit during polls. They should make this audit a mandate. These parties can also use electronic displays at important junctions and strategic locations to attract public eye,” Prof EUB Reddy told this correspondent. 

YSRC lacks active leaders

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 20, 2014:  Lack of proper leadership in the two districts- Vizag and Vizianagaram, may affect the electoral prospects of YSRC. While Srikakulam YSRC unit has an active senior politician, Dharmana Prasada Rao, there are no any such prominent and active leaders in Vizianagaram and Vizag districts in the party to bring in some synergy among the cadre, grass root and second rung leaders and the probable candidates, who will fight assembly polls.

After bifurcation, north Andhra having, 34 assembly and 5 loksabha seats, is termed as a crucial region and leadership of every party has been preparing strategies to win maximum seats in the region.

Though, Konatala Ramakrishna, is considered as active politician from the district, he is confined only to party office activities in Hyderabad and spending less time here in Vizag. Probably to fill the leadership vacuum, YSRC chief, YS Jaganmohan Reddy initially decided to field his sister Sharmila from Vizag loksabha seat which will have an impact on all the assembly and loksabha constituencies in the three districts of north Andhra.

Sharmila, is also considered as party’s star campaigner.  But, there are reports that, Jagan, has changed his strategy and decided to field her from some other region than Vizag. Now, though, officially, names of the contestants of the assembly constituencies are not announced, but with the unofficial nod from the party chief some aspirants have already started nurturing their hopes and begun campaigning in their respective constituencies. But, they feel, the activities and campaigning are going directionless.

Meanwhile, former Araku MLA, Kumbha Ravi Babu and ex corporator, GV Ravi Raju, who joined YSRC at the time of the party’s launch and have been actively taking part in various party programmes are said to be unhappy and are ready to switch loyalties to either TD or JSP.

While Ravi Babu wanted Araku assembly ticket, Jagan decided to field former MLC Kidari Sarveswar Rao from the constituency. On the other hand, Ravi Raju expected ticket to contest from Vizag north constituency, which went to party rural unit convenor, Chokkakula Venkat Rao. 

Too many leaders spoil TD’s broth

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 19, 2014:  Instead of giving a boost to the sagging fortunes of the party in Vizag, the joining of five MLAs, brought many a problem to the Telugu Desam (TD) in the district.

Amid strong opposition from local leaders, former minister Ganta Srinivasa Rao and four other Congress MLAs joined TD  on March 12. MLAs, Muttamsetti Srinivaa Rao, Chintalapudi Venkata Ramaiah, Panchakarla Ramesh Babu, UV Ramanamurthy Raju (Kannababu) are the other MLAs who joined the party.

With the recent developments TD district vice president and wife of former Anakapalle MP, Gudivada Gurunatha Rao, Nagamani and son Gudivada Amarnath had resigned from the party. They joined YSRCP in the presence of its chief YS Jaganmohan Reddy in Hyderabad last week. 

There is lot of infighting in the party and TD leadership is worried that it will lead to debacle of the party in the district. While the MLAs who joined the party are seeking party tickets of the same constituencies they won in 2009, TD leaders who were nurturing those constituencies since last five years are opposing the same. This dissidence may spoil the chances of TD in Vizag, say political observers.

Party senior leader and politburo member, Ayyana Patrudu had already fired a salvo at the MLAs who joined the party in the ‘Praja Garjana’ that was held last week.

While Pendurthy MLA, Panchakarla Ramesh Babu, is planning to contest now from Vizag north, it has irked TD’s prominent face in Vizag and a Yadava leader, Bharanikana Rama Rao, who has been, nurturing hopes on the seat for more than 5 years. Similarly, Yelamanchali MLA, U V Ramanamurthy Raju, entry is also being opposed by local leaders.

Bheemili TD leaders like Raghuveer Sakuru, Appalanarasimha Raju also opposed, local MLA Muttamsetti Srinivas joining the party. They have expressed their displeasure openly, at many open forums.

To quell the dissidence, on Wednesday, Bheemili MLA, Srinivas had to tour his constituency on Wednesday visiting grass root leaders of TD to familiarize with them and also made thousands of Congress activists join the TD. He toured as many as 20 villages on Wednesday and expected to tour some more in the coming days to familiarize himself as a TD man. 

Forward March: NRIs' blueprint to growth

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 18, 2014: It’s not only youngsters and intellectuals drawing strategies for the development of the successor state of Andhra Pradesh, NRIs too, are taking active part in spreading the advantages of the coastal Andhra and Rayalseema regions and  to develop them on a fast pace. They are also open to offer suggestions to the new Government that is going to be formed after the polls, raising hopes for the future generations.

Bifurcation is over, what next for Andhra? A London-based NRI, Chandrasekhar Buddha, with roots in Vizag, has prepared an hour-long presentation, collecting data and statistics from various sources, including several government departments. Parts of the information were also accessed from the report submitted by the Justice B.N. Sri Krishna Committee, appointed by the Union Government, to look into the demand for Telangana.

“A rich Andhra, How we can we develop Andhra State,” a video, has gone viral on social networking sites and got over  thousands of clicks in just five days after it was uploaded on YouTube.

The presentation also offers suggestions like dividing 13 districts of the successor state into two administrative parts, “Visa City” between Vizianagaram and Kakinada for single window clearances of investment proposals, conducting “Beach Premium League” (BPL) regularly by inviting international clubs to hold  various water sports tournaments like surfing, beach volley ball and football, et al.

The presentation also offered solutions and suggestions for many contentious issues.  It elaborates on how the existing airport in Vizag can be developed, into a world-class international airport, by adding more terminals. Vizag can also become a travel hub to go to many Asian countries,” Chandrasekhar Buddha told this correspondent.

He added that the proposed BPL would help in creating a brand for the new state, and can put Seemandhra on global map, and more foreign exchange.

“Everyone was dejected when we lost Hyderabad to Telangana. I have made this video to spread awareness among the youth, about the potential of the new state, to develop in all spheres and also to give suggestions to the politicians,” the NRI said .

Betting picks up before elections in North Andhra

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 17, 2014:  Though elections are two months away from now, betting has already begun in many parts of north Andhra. Heavy bets are being placed on chances of YSRC winning.

The political uncertainty has definitely brought fortunes to the betting organizers. This time the organizers say they will close the stakes before the polls calling it a ‘blind betting’.  The least amount put on stake as of now is Rs 10,000, while the maximum has already touched to Rs 10 lakhs even before the election is yet to generate enough heat.

Betting organizers and punters have already started working overtime. Even though many Congress leaders are making a beeline for TD office to join the party expecting Naidu to come back to power, YSRC still remains the favourite among the punters.

Besides YSRC win, in Vizag, a lot of bets are being placed on former minister Ganta Srinivas Rao, who has rejoined TD recently. Betting organizers are raising the stakes on whether changing party will bring luck to the former minister, who never lost an election since the time he entered politics in 1999.

There is also heavy betting on Vizag east seat where the fight is most likely between the sitting TD MLA, Velagapudi Ramakrishna Babu who is very popular among masses in the constituency and YSRC city convenor, Vamsi Krishna Srinivas.

The YSRC city convenor contested on a PRP ticket in the last elections and lost to Babu. Since, then Vamsi has been nurturing the constituency by organizing many programmes to woo local voters.

Interestingly, betting is also on whether former PCC chief, Botsa Satyanrayana who faced the ire of Viziangaram public in July-August last year, can retain deposits or not.

In Srikakulam, stakes are on whether, YSRC Chief Jagan Reddy’s popularity would ensure win of the party’s loksabha candidate or the sympathy wave would work in favour of Young Turk in the politics, K Yerran Naidu’s son K Rammohan Naidu, who is the most likely TD candidate for Srikakulam parliamentary constituency.

In the remaining constituencies in Vizag district, it is all one sided affair in favour of YSRC. Punters are betting on YSRC candidates. “This time we wanted to bring in some excitement and generate enough heat much before the parties announced their candidates. If there is a wave a party wins irrespective of candidates in the fray. We have got a good response even the stakes have begun 2 months before the polls though there is risk factor,” said a betting organizer.  As many as half a dozen are oganising these betting. 

Youth get busy with strategies for Andhra Pradesh

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 13, 2014: With the bifurcation of the state becoming a reality, a group of enthusiastic youngsters of Vaada Foundation are busy drawing up strategies for the development of the successor state of Andhra Pradesh and creating a brand for the new state.

They have got an architect from Mumbai to design a new state Assembly building, which they say will be the pride of Andhra Pradesh.

Architect Rajesh Khatter’s design envisions a carpet area of more than two lakh square feet. There will be three buildings in the Assembly complex which will house the legislative council and a common conference hall as well. Vaada spent a large amount of money on drawing up the design.

The Assembly building will have entry from four sides and is an eco friendly structure and a green building. The colour scheme is pink and off white and the stone used is slate from Rajasthan. Slate stone gives warmth in winter and is cool in summer.

“It’s just out of passion and interest that we have designed the state Assembly building. Now that the state is divided, we should work hard to build a brand for our state. It’s with this intention that we got the design done. We will submit it to the new government without any expectations. We just want to create a niche and brand for the new state,” said Vaada Foundation founder, Suresh Raju.

He says that calling Telangana the new state is erroneous. Changing the name on the plaque outside a house does not make it a new house, so technically, Andhra Pradesh is the new state, not Telangana.

“It is Andhra Pradesh that has the enormous task of building a whole new capital.”

He is pitching for a new STD and pin code as part of the brand building exercise. “Most regions that will come together to form the new state have four or five digit STD codes. All capital cities in India, like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad etc., have fancy three digit STD codes like 022, 011, 044, and 080, respectively. The new capital city of Andhra Pradesh too should get a fancy STD code that will add to the brand value appropriate for a capital city. Similarly, the pin code must conform to the standards followed by other capital cities. This will help the new state at the outset, instead of having to undergo many changes after it is established,” said Mr Raju.

Naidu vows to make Vizag second financial capital of India after Mumbai

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 12, 2014: Telugu Desam supremo, N Chandrababu Naidu vowed to make Vizag, the second financial capital of the country after Mumbai. Speaking, at Praja Garjana held here on Wednesday, he came down heavily on Congress for neglecting Vizag for a decade.

“Vizag could have become an IT, tourism and industrial hub if TD continued in power. I tried to bring film studios also to make the city a film shooting hub after Hyderabad. The HSBC which is now here in Vizag was also brought during my rule. Probably, it is the last big IT company to come to Vizag. NTPC, pharma city, Apparel Park all that are providing, good employment were also established in Vizag during TD rule. Congress government neglected such a beautiful city which has so many natural resources and known as jewel of the east coast. We have Mumbai in west coast and Vizag in east coast which can become a second financial capital of the country. We will make it second financial capital of the country if voted to power,” he said.

Naidu promised that his party would strive to install the statue of freedom fighter Alluri Seetaramaju, pride of Vizag, in the parliament house complex.

Former minister Ganta Srinivas Rao along with, MLAs, UV Ramanamurthy Raju (Kannababu), Muttamsetti Srinivas, Panchakarla Ramesh Babu, Chintalapudi Venkataramaiah, former city mayor Rajana Ramani, former Vuda chairman and MLA, SA Rehman, joined TD in the presence of Naidu.

Ganta Srinivasa Rao, said that it was homecoming for him and accused the Congress, of dividing the state only for votes and seats. He added since, the state bifurcation is a reality, the successor state of Andhra Pradesh needs a dynamic, committed and visionary leader like N Chandrababu Naidu for its overall development, hence joined the party.

There were also enough fireworks at the meeting. Ganta’s arch rival, Ayyana Patrudu, who opposed, the former rejoining the party openly appealed him not to change his loyalties in future and work for the party.

Indirectly referring, Ganta Srinivas Rao and the MLAs who joined, TD on Wednesday, Ayyana said, “Some people have joined TD today and I request them not to change parties frequently and to be with TD at least for the next 5 years and work hard to bring the party to power,” 

Kiran's party aimed at Telugu Desam, says Chandrababu Naidu

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 12, 2014: Telugu Desam president N. Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday likened the TRS, YSR Congress and former chief minister N. Kiran Reddy’s just launched Jai Samaikyandhra Party as various faces of the “10 headed Congress demon” and asked the public not to vote for them.

Addressing a huge gathering of party activists and grass root leaders at the Indira Priyadarshini municipal stadium here as part of his state wide “Praja Garjana” programme, Mr Naidu said, “TRS, YSRC and the newly launched party by Kiran Kumar Reddy are various faces of the 10 headed Congress demon. Your vote will be wasted if given to Kiran’s party. He has done nothing when he was the chief minister, what can we expect from him now? This is part of a Congress conspiracy to spoil the chances of the TD coming to power. But I am confident that the TD will come to power and bring development both in Seemandhra and Telangana.”

He also promised to create many Hyderabad Like cities across Seemandhra if voted to power.

Mr Naidu added that it was he who had put Hyderabad on the global map. “I had got the chance to become prime minister of this country twice, but refused the chair and wanted to be in Andhra Pradesh to work for the development of the state. TD picked PMs of this country earlier and it is going to play a crucial role at the Centre this time too,” he said and regretted that the BJP didn’t meet his expectations in Parliament to fight for equal justice to both the regions.

He also accused Congress president Sonia Gandhi for trying to dig the TD’s grave with the help of TRS in Telangana and YSRC in Seemandhra. “But the Congress is unaware that it has dug it’s own grave,” he said.

The TD chief further said that his government would pick the capital after coming to power and found fault with Mrs Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi for not talking about development in Telangana and Seemandhra.

Former minister Ganta Srinivasa Rao, along with four MLAs of the district, joined the Telugu Desam in the presence of Mr Naidu on Wednesday.

The TD chief is perturbed over the damage the new party, Janasena, to be launched by Pawan Kumar this Friday, would likely to cause to his comeback plans. Naidu have been upset with Pawan Kalyan for keeping his political moves a secret. Sources said Mr Naidu had sent a word to the actor to discuss about his political plans but the latter did not specify the date of meeting despite agreeing to it. Sources close to Naidu said the party would not mind seat sharing and spare 10-15 seats. A clear picture might emerge only after March 14 when the actor will reveal his plans to the public.

Chaos precedes Naidu’s ‘Garjana’

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 11, 2014: Amid strong opposition to entry of former minister Ganta Srinivasa Rao and four other MLAs from may local leaders, party chief N Chandrababu Naidu will take part in ‘Praja Garjana’ public meeting here on Wednesday.

MLAs, Muttamsetti Srinivaa Rao, Chintalapudi Venkata Ramaiah, Panchakarla Ramesh Babu, UV Ramanamurthy Raju (Kannababu) will be joining TD at the public meeting.

The meeting is seen as the launch of poll campaign of the party in north Andhra while infusing much needed confidence to the cadre in the three districts, which has 34 assembly and 5 MP seats. Though Ganta  Srinivasa Rao joining TD is termed as ‘homecoming’, his arch rival Ayyana Patrudu has openly opposed Rao’s latest move. Ayyana Patrudu said TD which is set to regain its past glory will lose its image if turncoats and tainted persons are allowed to join the party.

Instead of giving a boost to the sagging fortunes of the party in Vizag, with the joining of 5 MLAs, it had brought many a problem to Naidu. With the recent developments TD district vice president and wife of former Anakapalle MP, Gudivada Gurunatha Rao, Nagamani and son Gudivada Amarnath had resigned from the party. They are going to join YSRCP in the presence of its chief YS Jaganmohan Reddy in Hyderabad.

 While Pendurthy MLA, Panchakarla Ramesh Babu, is planning to contest now from Vizag north, it has irked TD’s prominent face in Vizag and a Yadava leader, Bharanikana Rama Rao, who has been, nurturing hopes on the seat for more than 5 years. Similarly, Yelamanchali MLA, U V Ramanamurthy Raju, entry is also being opposed by local leaders.

Bheemili TD leaders like Raghuveer Sakuru, Appalanarasimha Raju also opposed, local MLA Muttamsetti Srinivas joining the party. They have expressed their displeasure openly, at a meeting held with Bheemili constituency leaders with party senior leader, Yanamala Ramakrishnudu two days ago. Ramakrishnudu, had to pacify them telling that issue will be taken into the notice of Naidu during his visit to Vizag.

 TD North Andhra Pradesh was once a strong bastion, for the TD, since the inception of the party by NT Rama Rao. It almost swept the polls in the three districts during polls from 1983 to 1999, polls, but the party started witnessing  the downward trend from 2004 polls and in 2009 elections, TD had won a meager 7 assembly segments in this region of the total 34 assembly constituencies spread across the three districts.

While, there are around 15 assembly segments in Vizag, TD could win only 4, of 9 in Vizanagaram party bagged only 2 and it could win only one constituency out of 10 in Srikakulam.

Meanwhile there is also last minute change in the venue. The venue of Paraja Garjana has now shifted to Indira Gandhi municipal stadium from RK beach.

Sticky points:

• Ganta’s entry is being strongly opposed by party senior leader, Ch Ayyana Patrudu.

• Bheemili leaders, Appalanarasimah Raju, Raghuveer Sakuru and others openly expressed displeasure over local MLA Muttamsetti Srinivas’s entry.

• TD’s senior leader in Vizag, Bharanikana Rama Rao, who has been nurturing hopes on Vizag North constituency seat is sore over Pendurthy MLA, Panchakarla Ramesh Babu eyeing the constituency.

• Yelamanchali MLA, U V Ramanamurthy Raju, entry is also being opposed by local leaders

• With the recent developments TD district vice president and wife of former Anakapalle MP, Gudivada Gurunatha Rao, Nagamani and son Gudivada Amarnath had resigned from the party. They are going to join YSRCP in the presence of its chief YS Jaganmohan Reddy in Hyderabad.

AAP fails to foray into Seemandhra

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 7, 2014: The new entrant into India’s political landscape, Aam Admi Party (AAP) might have attracted and fielded, prominent persons and big names like captain Gopinath, Meera Sanyal, Mallika Sarabai in metros like Mumbai, Delhi and Banglore, but failed to make much foray into Seemandhra region, especially in places like Vizag.

AAP received around 20 applications from candidates, who are willing to contest from Vizag loksabha seat but no known personality opted to take a plunge with AAP.

Normal lawyers, doctors, software developers and young entrepreneurs are among the applicants. After interviews in Hyderabad, expected to be held in a week, Vizag loksabha candidate will be announced.

AAP local volunteers have already formed into various groups and are getting ready to launch poll campaign. Vizag loksabha constituency has sizeable urban, educated and young voters, who AAP local leaders are banking on.  

While the conventional parties like Congress, TD and YSRC are yet to decide their local strategies, AAP has begun ground work since 2 months. 

While membership of the party was said to be over 1lakh in West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand and Assam, around 2lakh in Odisha, Gujarat and Jharkhand, around 2.5 lakh each in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, about 4 to 5 lakh each in Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, and Rajasthan, and nearly 6lakh in Kerala, it was only said to be around 20,000 in Vizag.

“There is good response for the party in Vizag. We are waiting for the interview to select Vizag candidate is finished and the candidate is finalized so that we can launch our0 campaign. We are hopeful of making an impact among Vizag public. There are also many youngsters showing interest in working with us as volunteers,” said local AAP coordinator, Abhishek Banthia. 

Mass emails, bulk SMSs, mapping of various zones using Google Maps, extensive use of Social Media like Facebook and Twitter is the strategy of AAP Vizag.

After initial euphoria and enthusiasm the AAP ‘magic’ seems to have faded in Vizag. The membership enrollment which was launched amidst much fanfare has disappointed the local AAP committee members.

When the membership drive was launched in the first week of January, around 1,000 persons were enrolled in just 2 days. Against the target of 1 lakh memberships by March only close to 20,000 enrolled until now. On field responses from even middle class voters is said to be in favour of conventional parties, admitted AAP local leaders.

BJP’s Vizag LS aspirant welcomes Purandeswari

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 6, 2014:  Purandeswari’s Thursday announcement of joining BJP and openly expressing her wish to contest from Vizag loksabha seat has set the stage for a turf war. Though rumours that Purandeswari along with her husband Daggupati Venkateswara Rao would be joining BJP, has been going on since sometime it was learnt that she will be contesting from Vijayawada loksabha seat.

However Thursday’s announcement has said to have irked another BJP’s Vizag loksabha ticket aspirant Kambhampati Haribabu. A BJP member since decades, Haribabu led the Seemandhra BJP leaders who met the party central leadership for a special package to Seemandhra region during the bifurcation process.  Until now Haribabu was the obvious choice for Vizag seat.

 However, Haribabu welcomed Purandeswari into the party. “It shows the BJP’s popularity in this region. I wholeheartedly welcome her into BJP. We want more MPs to see Narendra Modi as prime minister. And her entry would definitely add to party’s MP numbers. We are all happy with the groundswell support to Narendra Modi. Everybody knows it’s only Modi who can build Seemandhra and make it a prosperous state and another Gujarat,” he told this correspondent.

When asked about his plans to contest from Vizag, Haribabu said it would be decided by the party leadership. Haribabu further said there are some more leaders who are ready to join BJP like Purandeswari.

Sources close to Haribabu said that, Purandheswari would be given opportunity to contest from Vijayawada though she is interested in contesting from Vizag. 

Whither loyalty: Purandeswari supporters angry

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 6, 2014:  In a shocker to Purandeswari, some of her supporters have openly opposed her decision to quit the Congress and join BJP. They voiced their objections openly at the meeting she held with the close aides, followers and supporters to share details of her decision to join BJP.

Some of her staunch followers questioned why she didn’t resign from the party when Congress Working Committee (CWC) has passed resolution recommending state bifurcation. They accused her of enjoying posts when the party is in power and now quitting for personal gains.

“We strongly oppose her move. It would have been appropriate if she had resigned when the CWC resolved in support of state bifurcation. She was honoured in Congress and was made union minister twice. We want her to continue in the party,” said youth Congress leader Murthy Yadav.

 Another staunch supporter of her, Sridhar Reddy, who has been actively participating and organizing various programmes of Purandeswari since 2009, said that it was unfortunate that she decided to quit the Congress which gave her so many opportunities.

 Former government whip and Vizag south MLA, Dronamraju Srinivas, who met Purandeswari minutes before her announcement also found fault with her decision. “How can she justify joining, BJP, which is a communal party. She should have continued in the Congress. I oppose her decision,” Dronamraju Srinivas said.

Vizag west MLA, Malla Vijay Prasad, said it was an unfortunate decision that Purandeswari has taken to quit Congress. 

Jumping Boat: Purandeswari to join BJP

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 6, 2014: Accusing the Congress leadership of snubbing her and doing injustice to Seemandhra while dividing the state, former union minister of state for commerce and industry, D Purandewari on Thursday announced she was ready to join BJP.  

Purandeswari also said she will be meeting, BJP president, Rajnath Singh, other senior party leaders, Advani, Arun Jaitely and Sushma Swaraj in Delhi on Friday to express her willingness to join the saffron party.

 She held a meeting in Vizag on Thursday with her close aides, supporters and followers to share her views on quitting the Congress and future course of action.

“At one point of time, I wanted to quit politics due to the way Congress humiliated me. But my family, well wishers and supporters persuaded me to continue and then decided to quit Congress. Not even a single suggestion of either mine or my other cabinet colleagues from Seemandhra was considered by the Congress led union government. I’m deeply hurt. Even inclusion of villages that are to be submerged due to Polavaram project, into successor state was done only due to the pressure from BJP leaders like Venkaiah Naidu and Arun Jaitley in Rajyasabha. Our suggestions were just ignored in Loksabha while passing AP Reorganisation Bill,” said an aggrieved Purandheswari.

She said Seemandhra union ministers along with her met the GoM overseeing the state’s bifurcation many times and submitted their views and suggestions, which were ignored.

Purandewari further said it was painful to leave Congress, but she could not continue in the party due to the humiliation caused by the party bosses.

 The MP also dropped enough hints that she is not going to leave Vizag. “Given a chance I will contest from Vizag. But there are no conditions from my side to join BJP,” she added.

 She alleged that Congress has clandestine understanding with TRS in Telangana and YSRC in Seemandhra and never bothered about the future of its own leaders from this region.  

“Congress is confident of support from YSRC and TRS. Congress has clandestine understanding with both the regional parties and put future of many leaders like us from Seemandhra at stake. Congress has acted in a unilateral manner in dividing the state,” Purandheswari added.

Purandewari, in January wrote a letter to AICC state affairs in charge, Digvijay Singh expressing displeasure over allegedly asking her to contest from any other seat than Vizag in the forthcoming general polls.

However, Subbarami Reddy, who was elected to Rajyasabha third time and also the loksabha ticket aspirant from Vizag earlier said that since Purandeswari was interested in contesting from Vizag, party central leadership decided to nominate him to the upper house of the parliament. 

Vaastu makeover for Simhachalam temple

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 5, 2014: Looks like the ‘vaastu’ bug had bitten the authorities of Simhachalam temple, the second most popular hill-shrine in the state after Tirumala. Though at a nascent stage, if the proposals get an official nod, the temple will have a vaastu makeover in the coming days. 

The Simhachalam temple, abode of lord Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy, 22 kms away from city, has more than a 1000 years history, but the pilgrim flow and revenues seem to be low when compared to Tirumala temple.

It is said the temple staff has recently observed that there are certain structures around the temple that are not ‘vaastu’ compliant. The eastern side of the temple is fully covered and closed with a hillock. Certain private houses on one side and the kitchen where prasadams are prepared are above the height of the temple.  The chief stapathi (architect) of endowments department has recently visited the temple and suggested  changes in the design accordingly.

The temple history dates back to 1098AD. An inscription dated 1098 AD of the Chola King Kuloththunga provides a clue to its antiquity. Another inscription names a queen of the Eastern Ganga of Kalinga (1137–1156), while a third inscription says the eastern Ganga King of Odisha, Narasimhadeva II (1279–1306), built the central shrine in 1267. More than 252 inscriptions in Odia and Telugu describe the antecedents of the temple.

With the unique feature of the temple being west faced- a sign of victory, all the
emperors who ruled eastern India used to frequent the temple and offer valuable gold
ornaments, gems and silver articles which has distinctive antique value besides loads of
monetary value. According to religious belief, an east-facing entrance brings prosperity, while a west-facing one brings victory.         

According to the stapathi’s suggestions, the hillock needs to be razed, a gopuram constructed, maada veedhi on the east be created, kitchen to be modified to the level of sanctum sanctorum of the temple and the private houses on the north east side of the temple be demolished.

Simhachalam is one of the eighteen Naarasimha Kshetras-shrines of Lord Narsimha in India and was patronized by the rich dynasties of Eastern Gangas, Gajapathis and Reddys who ruled eastern and southern parts of the country from Nellore to Bengal from 11th to 17th century BC.

Around 5,000 pilgrims visit the temple on regular days and the number goes from 10,000 to 15,000 on the weekends. During the annual chandanotsavam  lakhs visit the hill shrine from various parts of the state and also parts of Odisha and Chattishargh. During 2012-13, Simhachalam temple earned revenue of Rs 28crs.

“Its not just vaastu there is also another reason for us to think about creating another mada veedhi on the eastern side. Here we have mada veedhis only on the three sides of the temple. The other side it is covered with the hillock. Generally lord’s processions in any temple are taken around sanctum sanctorum but here it’s been taken only on the three sides. Razing the hillock and creating a mada veedhi is the plan which is at a nascent stage. We will also take suggestions from various other elders and plan accordingly,” Simhachalam temple, executive officer, B Ramachandra Mohan told this correspondent.

He also added that razing the hillock is an uphill task and other issues of not disturbing the natural fabric are to be considered before going ahead.

Historians also believe that Simhachalam second richest temple in India, after Tirumala hill shrine, may just graduate to first place if the hidden treasure troves on its premises are excavated. 

Fearing attacks from Maratha and Muslim kings during 18th century, those who were taking care of the temple said to have hid the treasures underground on the temple premises.

Except the offering by Emperor Sri Krishnadevaraya of Vijayanagar Empire, an emerald
necklace and recent gold offerings by devotees no antique valued ornaments are known to the public.

It is believed that there was a cave under the mandapam on the temple premises near
sanctum sanctorum where the valuables are deposited over thousands of years ago.

Vizag harbour is deepest in India

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 10, 2014: Vizag port created history by docking, first cape class vessel that carried 1.6 lakh metric tonne Indonesian coal at Vizag General Cargo Berth (VGCB).

The large size cape class vessel ‘MV NGM Sailor’ could be berthed due to the recent efforts of Visakhapatnam Port Trust (VPT) to dredge outer harbour to the depth of 20mts. Vizag port has now become one of the India’s deepest harbour. Unloading of the coal has began at VGCB on Monday.

 “It’s an historic day for Vizag port. It’s been a dream for VPT since 10 years to handle such a big size vessel. This was possible with the dredging of the outer harbour. We are expecting more such vessels every month. Vizag port on the east coast is strategically located and serves a vast hinter land. It will help Vizag port also achieve top position among other major ports in the country,” said VPT, deputy chairman, GVL Satya Kumar.

He added that demand for coal imports would go up in coming years due to increase in installed electricity capacity of 1.5 lakh mw in the country to 4.5 lakh mw by  2030 and more than 75 percent of it is generated by thermal based power plants.

The VPT top official also said that demand for steam coal will also go up with the projected growth of cement and steel production by 2030.  Dredging at the inner harbour of Vizag port to the depth of 16 mts will be completed with in 3 to 4 months adding capacity to handle larger size ships, said Satya Kumar.  

 Vedanta’s VGCB, CEO, DK Manral said that VGCB with its world class and most environment friendly, state of art facility will assist Vziag port attracting, biggest and largest ships to port which would not only bring more tonnage but also much required revenue and generate new employment. It will also drastically reduce pollution by handling coal with its fully mechanized facility.

“With coal likely to continue as the mainstay of India’s energy supply, the country needs to look the new challenges posed by logistical constraints. Around 55 percent of India’s primary, energy supply is coal based and the situation in near future won’t get better. India’s need for coal based energy is on the increase. On account of India’s increased demand of coal supply and political uncertainties in allocating indigenous coal blocs, the import of coal is poised to grow at double digits. On account of India’s huge ever growing energy needs, India along with China has the unique distinction of being on both the top 6 coal producer and top 4 coal importer,” said Manral.

VGCB with the capacity to handle 11mmt per annum had set a record recently by discharging 75, 160 mt from panamx ship in a single day through the fully mechanized system.

While 105mmt of coal was imported during 2011-12, it has gone up to 138 mmt in 2012-13 and 165 mmt in 2013-14; it is projected to go up further to 180mmt in 2014-15, 200mmt by 2015-16 and 226mmt by 2016-17.

During 2014-15 against the demand for 780mmt of coal there was production of only 600mmt with a shortfall of 180mmt which has to be made up by imports. India imports coal from Indonesia, USA, South Africa and Australia.

Purandeswari port ‘lobby’ triggers fury, Vziag people sore over former MP not taking up case of Nakkapalli

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 9, 2014: Union minister, Jairam Ramesh’s comments against former union minister, Daggupati Purandeswari, regarding her ‘lobby’ for a major port at Ramayapatnam in Prakasam district,  has come as a shocker for local people.

They also feel let down as Purandesawari, who represented Vizag as its MP for the last 5 years has lobbied for Ramayapatnam, instead of Nakkapalli in the district, which was one of the three sites selected for a major port by a high level technical team appointed by union government during 2012-13. 

There were also protests by local opposition MLAs and an all party delegation too met the then chief minister, N Kiran Kumar Reddy asking him to recommend Nakkapalli instead of Ramayapatnam or Dugarajapatnam in Nellore district.

Interestingly talking to reporters on Saturday, Purandeswari admitted that she had raised the issue of developing a port at Ramayapatnam before AICC vice president Rahul Gandhi.

Reacting to purandeswari meeting BJP top leaders and joining the saffron party, jairam Ramesh on Friday said  “Purandeswari is a traitor. She cheated the party after enjoying all honors and the privileges as Minister and Congress leader. She has purchased thousands of acres of lands at Ramayapatnam in the state and demands the government to construct port there only. But, when we have declined her proposal and Dugarajapatnam was selected, she is quitting the party blaming for dividing the state. If so, why she joining BJP that has supported the bifurcation bill?”

 While the state government recommended Ramayapatnam, in Prakasam district instead of Nakkapalli in Vizag, in a surprise pick union government finalized Duggirajapatnam.

Vizag port is the only major port in the state though Andhra Pradesh has tremendous potential to handle foreign trade though sea due to its vast coast line of 996kms. In order to tap the foreign trade opportunities state government has approached the union government with a proposal for a second major port when the Centre announced its maritime agenda for the next decade 2010-20.

Three places were shortlisted for the proposed port, Nakkapalli in Vizag district,
Ramayapatnam in Prakasam district and Duggirajapatnam in Nellore district. A high-level central committee visited the three places for almost six months last year and the report was also submitted. Later the state government wrote to Centre recommending Ramaypatnam, which irked the opposition parties. 

There were reports that ISRO and the defence officials reportedly raised security concerns as SHAR is near to Duggirajapatnam and Nakkapalli is close to Naval Alternative Operations Base (NAOB).

“ This is what happens if we elect some outsider.  We need a strong local leader otherwise I don’t see future for north Andhra and Vizag. Will a tourist politician care for anything? I thought she will be an asset for Vizag she is ditching everyone now,” said an angry Aditya Sameer Guduru.

 Purandeswari’s lobby for Ramayapatnam also started trending on social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter where local youngsters vented their ire. 

Power to state capital opposed

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 4, 2014: While the proposed power plants in various parts of Seemandhra are at the verge of being commissioned in the coming days, making the successor state power surplus, a new demand is brewing in this part of the state, that power generated in the region should be utilized only here but not be shared with Telangana.

Union minister and the member of GoM that worked on the bifurcation of the state, Jairam Ramesh on Monday here said that 85 percent of power will be allotted as per the Gadgil formula of according to population and the remaining 15 percent as per the actual consumption.

Coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema have an installed generation capacity of 3,810 MW thermal power and 1,000 MW share from NTPC Simhadri here also adds to the Seemandhra power house.  Around 1,800 MW is generated from hydel stations
in Nagarjunasagar right canal power station, Penna, Srisailam, Sileru and Tungabhadra.

Both thermal and hydel power generated together touches nearly 5,626 MW against the demand of 4,000 MW from all categories of consumers from the 13 districts of north Andhra. Though Seemandhra generates surplus power, the region is facing power cuts, power holidays for industries as considerable amount of power is supplied to Hyderabad.

“As Hyderabad revenue is not shared with us there is no need to share power with them with immediate effect as president has divided the state officially. There will be no power cuts for us if implemented. As we are under central rule now to help seema andhra recover from shock of loss of capital city governor and president of India should see to that new allocation to Defence by separate power allocation for Eastern Naval Command (ENC),” said Vizag Development Council (VDC), vice president, O Naresh Kumar.

It is also learnt that various coal fired power plants with the installed capacity of 2,550 mw are at the verge of completion and ready to generate power from next year onwards. These plants include Sri Damodaram Sanjeevaiah Thermal Plant at Krishnapatnam with capacity of 1,600 MW, a 600-MW plant at RTPP, Muddanur and two more small Plants. 

Capital committee for AP in a week, says Jairam

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, March 3, 2014: The Union government will soon appoint an expert committee to identify a suitable city to be capital of the successor state of Andhra Pradesh. Besides, two more committees — one to bifurcate all-India services officers and another to divide other government staff among the two states — will also be appointed shortly.

Talking to reporters here on Monday, Union minister Mr Jairam Ramesh, who is a member of the Group of Ministers that worked on the bifurcation of the state, said that all the three committees would be appointed in a week as the Andhar Pradesh Reorganisation Bill has been notified after getting the assent of the President of India.

“The expert committee to identify a suitable city to be the capital of the successor state will be appointed in a couple of days. The committee will study various cities like Kurnool, Tirupati, Nellore, Ongole, Vizag among others, and submit its recommendations to the Union government. The Union government in consultation with the state government will decide the capital,” Mr Ramesh said, emphasising that the opinion of the government of the successor state will be important.

Land and water availability, and connectivity would be the main criteria when selecting the new capital. The Centre has also decided to de-notify any forest land if required. “Basically we need huge chunks of land like Naya Raipur where a new capital can be built,” he said.

Talking about the special economic package for seven districts of Rayalaseema and north coastal Andhra that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh announced in the Rajya Sabha, Mr Ramesh said that both the regions will get around Rs. 11,000 crore like the Bundelkhand package.

On power allocation, the senior Congress leader said 85 percent will allotted as per the Gadgil formula of according to population and the remaining 15 percent as per the actual consumption.

Answering a query, the GoM member said that the tax sops as announced by Centre in Seemandhra are only applicable for new investments but not for the existing industries in the new successor state. He said, as per the tax incentives, new industries will have relief from, Income Tax, Value Added Tax (VAT), excise and other duties. The tax incentives will be for the next 10years.

 As per the special category status, the successor state would get an approximate funds of Rs 50,000 crs of which 90 percent would be grant and 10percent in the form of loan.

 Ramesh also felt that, an industrial corridor planned between, Vizag and Chennai on the lines Delhi-Mumbai corridor would attract at least Rs 1 lakh cr investments.

“The Delhi-Mumbai industrial corridor has already attracted Rs 25,000 cr investments from Japan. Similarly, we are expecting Rs 1 lakh cr investments in the proposed Vizag-Chenani corridor which will stimulate industrial growth,” he said.

Capital talk: Vizag has enough land

By SNV Sudhir

Visakhapatnam, Feb 28, 2014: As the suspense continues on the capital for residuary state and  the race among various cities hots up, locals are of the opinion that, there is a well orchestrated conspiracy to deprive Vizag, of its legitimate due in the event of bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh.

Dismissing the arguments of non availability of huge chunks of land availability in Vizag, local officials in August last prepared a detailed report on the availability of land in the district and sent it to CCLA to set up a new capital for divided Andhra Pradesh.

 As per the sources in the revenue department, huge chunks of land were identified near Anadapuram and also the land covered under Peddapalli reserve forest area. The revenue staff identified around 13,000 acres of vacant land covered under this Peddapalli reserve forest area coming under Makavarapalem, Kotavuratla, S Rayavaram mandals in Narsipatnam revenue division. Besides, another 5,000 acres were also identified between Rambilli and Achyuthapuram mandals which were acquired for the SEZ and left unused or unutilized. 

 Availability of 18,000 acres at one place and also nearer to national highway would be the ideal location for Vizag to be pitched as capital for Seemandhra.  Site plans, maps, survey numbers, boundaries and all the other details on the land available were also sent by the local officials along with the report.

Apart from the land that was mentioned in the report, around 11,000 acres of  land that was acquired to set up Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (VSP) is also left unused and available.

“A section of political leaders, capitalists and lobbyists have hatched a conspiracy by forming a group to undermine the chances of locating capital in Vizag. Various groups which have been working against interests of Vizag has stepped up misinformation campaign against advantages of the city though the fact that Visakhpatnam emerged has top contender for capital in a recent survey,” said K Narasinga Rao, secretary of newly launched Vizag Citizen’s Forum.