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BRS Unveils 2025 Calendar Showcasing Minority Welfare, Criticises Congress Leadership

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“BRS Champions Minority Welfare, Slams Congress for Governance Failures”

Hyderabad, January 6: In a significant event at Telangana Bhavan on Monday, BRS Working President K. Tarakarama Rao and former minister T. Harish Rao launched the 2025 calendar, highlighting the party’s decade-long efforts for minority welfare. The calendar, prepared by senior BRS leader Shaik Abdullah Sohail, focuses on welfare schemes implemented during the BRS government’s tenure.

The calendar, themed around minority welfare, features quotes from BRS Chief K. Chandrashekhar Rao and outlines initiatives such as Shadi Mubarak, minority residential schools and colleges, and key appointments of Muslim leaders to positions like Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister. Each page, covering two months, also showcases infrastructural achievements like mosque construction at the new Secretariat, renovation of the Jamia Nizamia auditorium, restoration of Aneesul Ghurba, and distribution of Ramzan gifts.

At the launch, BRS leaders reiterated their commitment to inclusive governance, emphasising empowerment and accessible education for all. Former Deputy Chief Minister Mahmood Ali and other senior leaders attended the event. Abdullah Sohail lauded the BRS government’s decade-long achievements, asserting that minorities witnessed unprecedented development under its administration.

He highlighted symbolic milestones, such as appointing a Muslim Deputy Chief Minister in the first term and a Home Minister in the second term, along with nominating several Muslims as MLCs and heads of corporations.

Criticism of Congress Governance
Sohail strongly criticised the current Congress government, led by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, accusing it of failing minorities and dismantling welfare initiatives established by the BRS. He alleged that Congress’s one year in power was marked by suppression of minorities and destruction of welfare programs.

A poster unveiled at the event detailed alleged failures of the Congress government, including incidents of communal violence, neglect of minorities, and unfulfilled promises. The accusations included:

  • Communal riots in Sangareddy and Daulatabad.
  • Attacks on Muslim youth in Suryapet.
  • Desecration of religious sites, including Masjid-e-Habeeb Unnisa and Qutub Shahi Masjid.
  • No Muslim representation in the cabinet even after a year in power.

The Congress was also accused of symbolic neglect, such as proposing the removal of Charminar from the state logo and referencing Hyderabad as “Bhagyanagar” in state documents.

Sohail further pointed out that none of the 12 promises in Congress’s Minorities Declaration, including budget enhancements and education assistance, had been fulfilled. He assured that the BRS would continue to expose the Congress government’s failures through awareness campaigns across Telangana.

The event underscored BRS’s emphasis on inclusive governance and set the stage for intensified political engagement as Telangana prepares for its next electoral cycle.

Rising HMPV Infections in China Spark Public Fear and Call for Vigilance Across Asia

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Hyderabad: Reports of rising Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in northern China and its rapid spread across Asia are raising alarms among health experts and the general public. Viral videos and images of overcrowded hospitals and masked individuals struggling to access healthcare in China have intensified fears.

Mixed Reports on the Situation in China

Some social media users on X claimed that multiple viral outbreaks, including HMPV, COVID-19, and Mycoplasma pneumoniae, were overwhelming hospitals and crematoriums, allegedly prompting the Chinese government to declare a health emergency. However, Community Notes on X clarified there was no verifiable information to confirm these claims.

While the World Health Organization (WHO) has not issued an official statement, reports quoting Chinese health authorities confirm a rise in HMPV cases in northern China. News agency Reuters also reported a surge in HMPV cases alongside other viral infections in the region.

About Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HMPV can cause upper and lower respiratory diseases, particularly in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

  • Discovery: HMPV, part of the Pneumoviridae family alongside respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), was identified in 2001.
  • Symptoms: Common symptoms include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. Severe cases may lead to bronchitis or pneumonia.
  • Incubation Period: 3 to 6 days, with illness duration varying by severity.

How HMPV Spreads

  • Through coughing and sneezing.
  • Close personal contact, such as shaking hands.
  • Touching virus-contaminated surfaces and then touching the face.

Prevention Measures

  • Frequent handwashing with soap and water.
  • Avoiding touching the face with unwashed hands.
  • Maintaining distance from sick individuals.
  • Covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

As the situation evolves, health experts emphasize the importance of vigilance, hygiene, and timely medical attention to curb the spread of HMPV and similar infections.

Watch// Major Fire Breaks Out at Under-Construction High-Rise in Hyderabad

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Hyderabad January 3 : A significant fire broke out at an under-construction multi-storied building in Kokapet, Narsingi, located on the outskirts of the city. Fortunately, no casualties were reported.

Incident Details

The fire occurred at a building within the My Home project in the Neopolis layout. According to preliminary reports, police suspect that an electrical short circuit during ongoing construction and installation activities might have triggered the blaze, which rapidly escalated.

Thick plumes of smoke from the fire ballooned upwards and were visible from distant areas, causing concern among locals and passersby.

Quick Response by Workers and Authorities

Construction workers on-site were the first to notice the fire and promptly alerted both the fire department and the police. Multiple fire engines and snorkel cranes were dispatched to the scene to combat the flames. The Narsingi police have launched an investigation into the incident.

Similar Incidents in the Past

  • 2023 – Raidurgam Fire: A similar fire incident occurred at a commercial complex under construction in Raidurgam, Hyderabad, due to suspected electrical faults. While no injuries were reported, the property suffered significant damage.
  • 2022 – Hitech City Blaze: In another alarming episode, a fire broke out in a partially completed tech park in Hyderabad’s Hitech City area, caused by a welding spark. The fire was doused after hours of effort by the fire department.

Authorities are urging developers and contractors to enforce stringent safety measures during construction, especially in high-rise buildings, to prevent such incidents.

Further details on the Kokapet fire will emerge as investigations continue.

Telangana Prepares for Local Body Elections Amid Major Administrative Changes

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Hyderabad: Telangana is set to witness a wave of electoral activity in the New Year, with the State government finalizing arrangements for local body elections. The phased process, beginning with gram panchayat polls after mid-January, will cover elections for Panchayats, MPTCs, ZPTCs, municipalities, and municipal corporations.

Administrative Reforms Ahead of Elections

In anticipation of the elections, the government has introduced key amendments to the Panchayat Raj and Municipal Acts, including:

  • Reducing the reservation rotation period from 10 years to five years.
  • Ensuring each mandal has at least five MPTC seats.
  • Incorporating 80 villages into urban bodies.
  • Creating 12 new municipalities and upgrading two into corporations.

Plans are also underway to establish 200 new gram panchayats in Adilabad, Asifabad, and Mulugu districts. Approval for these new panchayats is expected through a special ordinance, with elections potentially conducted alongside existing ones. If finalized, Telangana will have a total of 13,191 gram panchayats.

Focus on Backward Classes (BCs) Reservation

The reservation process for Backward Classes (BCs) is being conducted in compliance with the Supreme Court’s triple-test criterion. A dedicated BC commission is working on finalizing quotas based on data from the State’s comprehensive household survey. The report will be approved by the government before being submitted to the Election Commission, which will release the election schedule.

Political Strategies Intensify

The ruling Congress government is leveraging key welfare promises, including:

  • Implementing Rythu Bharosa benefits.
  • Clearing pending payments for former sarpanches.
  • Distributing new ration cards.

Meanwhile, the opposition BRS is focusing on highlighting the government’s shortcomings compared to its tenure under former Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao. Both parties have mobilized grassroots cadres for voter outreach and intensified campaign strategies.

Election Arrangements by State Election Commission

The State Election Commission is planning gram panchayat elections in three phases, using ballot papers:

  • Pink ballot papers for Sarpanch candidates.
  • White ballot papers for ward members.

Key preparations include:

  • Procuring 70,000 ballot boxes from Karnataka and Chhattisgarh.
  • Managing elections for 12,815 gram panchayats, 1.14 lakh wards, 538 ZPTCs, and 5,817 MPTCs.

If the number of local bodies increases, arrangements will be adjusted accordingly.

District-Level Preparations

District administrations have accelerated efforts by:

  • Publishing village-wise voter lists.
  • Setting up polling stations.
  • Appointing nodal officers to ensure smooth elections.

With 1.67 crore rural voters, the elections are poised to shape Telangana’s political and administrative landscape significantly.

Mahavir International Hyderabad Chapter to Host 30th International Convention “Mahavir International Apex” on 4th January 2025

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Photo Aleem Style

Hyderabad, January 4, 2025 – The Mahavir International Hyderabad Chapter is gearing up to host the 30th International Convention “Mahavir International Apex” at the Citadel Convention, Gaganpahad Airport Road, Shamshabad. This prestigious event, starting at 7:00 PM, will mark a significant milestone as part of the chapter’s Silver Jubilee celebrations.

The convention will welcome prominent dignitaries, global leaders, and philanthropists, celebrating over 49 years of the chapter’s commitment to social welfare and humanitarian efforts.

Key Highlights

  • Chief Guest: D. Sridhar Babu, Hon’ble Minister for IT & E, Communication, Industries & Commerce, and Legislative Affairs, Government of Telangana.
  • Special Invitee: Shailesh Lodha, celebrated poet, actor, and writer.
  • Other notable attendees include Dr. P. Sanjeev Reddy (MLA Narayankhed Constituency), Vir CA Anil Jain (International President), Vir Ashok Goyal (International Secretary General), and Vir CA Sudhir Jain.

Event Agenda

  • Keynote Address by distinguished speakers.
  • Cultural performances and musical programs.
  • Grand dinner to conclude the evening.

Leadership Team

The convention is being organized under the leadership of:

  • Vir Vinod Sancheti (Chairman)
  • Vir Sheel Kumar Jain, Vir Basant Bafna, and Vir Ajay Nahata (Chief Convenors)
  • Vir Dharmender Jain (Treasurer)
  • Vir Archana Nahata (Secretary)
  • Supported by all members of Mahavir International Hyderabad.

Event Details

  • Date: 4th January 2025
  • Time: 7:00 PM onwards
  • Venue: Citadel Convention, Gaganpahad Airport Road, Shamshabad, Hyderabad

The media conference held at the Press Club, Basheerbagh, Hyderabad, on Thursday highlighted the chapter’s enthusiasm and meticulous planning for this landmark event.

Manu Bhaker, Gukesh Among Four Athletes to Receive Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award

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Key Highlights

  • Manu Bhaker and D Gukesh will be honored with the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna, India’s highest sporting award, on January 17, 2025.
  • The awards ceremony will take place at Rashtrapati Bhavan and will be presided over by the President of India.

Achievements in Focus

  • Manu Bhaker: At the Paris Olympics, she made history by winning two medals, becoming the only Indian to do so since Independence. Bhaker bagged bronze in the 10m air pistol individual and mixed team events.
  • D Gukesh: The 18-year-old became the youngest-ever world chess champion, defeating Ding Liren in Singapore. He also led India to a team gold at the Budapest Olympiad.
  • Harmanpreet Singh: The Indian men’s hockey captain led the team to its second consecutive Olympic bronze medal in Paris.
  • Praveen Kumar: The para high-jumper clinched the T64 title at the Paris Paralympics.

Ministry Announcement
The Sports Ministry emphasized that the selection was based on the recommendations of the Committee.

Complete List of Awardees

SR NOATHLETE NAMESPORTAWARD NAME
1Gukesh DChessMajor Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna
2Manu BhakerShootingMajor Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna
3Harmanpreet SinghHockeyMajor Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna
4Praveen KumarPara-AthleticsMajor Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna

Other Highlights

  • A comprehensive list of Arjuna Awardees includes standout names such as Jyothi Yarraji (Athletics), Vantika Agrawal (Chess), and Sajan Prakash (Swimming).
  • Lifetime Achievement recipients include Sucha Singh (Athletics) and Murlikant Rajaram Petkar (Para-Swimming).
  • The Dronacharya Award honors top coaches, with names like Deepali Deshpande (Shooting) and Armando Agnelo Colaco (Football).

Stay tuned for the grand ceremony on January 17!

Hyderabad: Inadequate Train Services Spark Passenger Concerns Ahead of Sankranti

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file photo

Hyderabad, January 1, 2025 : – A shortage of train services from the South Central Railway (SCR) zone is causing significant uncertainty among passengers, particularly migrant workers, tech professionals, and employees traveling to northern states and the two Telugu states for the upcoming Sankranti festival.

This year’s Sankranti coincides with the Kumbh Mela, scheduled from January 13 to February 26 in Prayagraj. The SCR has announced 18 special trains for Kumbh Mela, with more expected to accommodate the surge in demand. However, no specific announcements have been made for Sankranti special trains, leaving travelers in a lurch.

Adding to the chaos, several regular train services have been diverted or canceled to facilitate the Kumbh Mela trains. This has impacted both last-minute travelers and those who plan their journeys in advance, as services are either unavailable or overbooked with long waiting lists.

Rise in Demand for Alternate Transport

The lack of adequate trains has driven passengers to seek alternative modes of transport, including RTC buses, private buses, and cars, leading to increased travel costs and financial strain for many citizens.

Trains to Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, and Karnataka are operating at full capacity, with long waiting lists reported across routes.

Railway Authorities Respond

Despite the challenges, SCR authorities have assured the public that steps are being taken to minimize inconvenience. Measures include deploying additional trains and coaches to meet passenger demand during the festive season.

“All necessary arrangements are being made to ensure passengers have a comfortable journey,” a senior railway official stated.

The lack of timely solutions, however, continues to fuel anxiety among travelers as Sankranti approaches.

Driver ‘Hellbent on Carnage’ Causes Devastation in New Orleans on New Year’s Day

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New Orleans, January 1, 2025 – A horrifying act of violence marred New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans when a suspect drove a vehicle at high speed into a crowd of revelers in the French Quarter, killing 10 people and injuring 30. The tragedy unfolded at 3:15 a.m. along Bourbon Street, a world-famous hub for New Year’s Eve festivities.

The Incident and Aftermath

The vehicle plowed through a packed crowd, with witnesses describing scenes of chaos and terror. The French Quarter, already bustling with partygoers and visitors anticipating the Sugar Bowl college football game later that day, turned into a site of devastation.

Whit Davis, 22, who had been leaving a nightclub at the time, described the panic:
“Everyone started yelling and screaming and running to the back. We basically went into lockdown for a while, and when they let us out, the police were waving us to leave quickly. I saw a few dead bodies and many people receiving first aid.”

Emergency responders transported the injured to five local hospitals. Among the injured, two police officers were shot during a firefight with the suspect but are now in stable condition.

Suspect Neutralized

The suspect, who was described as “hell-bent on carnage,” was killed during a confrontation with law enforcement after exiting the vehicle and engaging in a firefight. Officials have not disclosed the suspect’s identity or motive but confirmed that the act was intentional.

“This was very intentional behavior. This individual was trying to run over as many people as possible,” said Police Commissioner Anne Kirkpatrick.

Investigating a Possible Terrorist Attack

The FBI, now leading the investigation, is treating the incident as a potential act of terrorism. Alethea Duncan, assistant special agent in charge of the FBI’s New Orleans field office, confirmed the discovery of at least one suspected improvised explosive device (IED) at the scene.

At a news conference, Mayor LaToya Cantrell condemned the killings, calling them a “terrorist attack.”

Heightened Security Measures

In response to the incident, New Orleans police assured the public of their commitment to safety, emphasizing that the Sugar Bowl would proceed as planned. Additional security measures have been implemented to protect attendees.

“Our officers will ensure the safety of everyone attending the game,” Commissioner Kirkpatrick stated.

Community in Mourning

As the city processes the tragedy, vigils and support initiatives are being organized to honor the victims and aid the injured. Mayor Cantrell expressed her condolences:
“This senseless act of violence has deeply wounded our city, but we will come together to heal and seek justice.”

Authorities continue to urge anyone with information about the incident to come forward, ensuring a thorough investigation into this devastating start to the new year.

SRZ Maahir-ul-Quran Hosts Grand “Shab-e-Noor” Event in Hyderabad

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Photo Aleem Style

Hyderabad, December 31, 2024 – A monumental Quranic Recitation event, “Shab-e-Noor,” was organized by SRZ Maahir-ul-Quran under the visionary leadership of its founder and president, Hazrat Qari Muhammad Abdul Rahman Shahid . The event took place at the sprawling Dar-ul-Shifa Football Ground, drawing a large crowd of attendees.

The program was presided over by Ustaad-ul-Qura’ Hazrat Maulana Qari Muhammad Ali Khan , with patronage provided by Mufti Hafiz Sadiq Mohiuddin . Renowned Qaris of international acclaim graced the stage, delivering exceptional recitations that captivated the audience.

Prominent figures, including Hazrat Maulana Jafar Pasha , Hazrat Maulana Hassan Farooq , Mir Zulfiqar (Charminar MLA), and Riyaz-ul-Hassan Afandi (MLC), honored the occasion as distinguished guests.

Recitations continued until the early hours of January 1, 2025, with participants from all walks of life, including influential elites and common citizens, showing their appreciation for the spiritual ambiance.

A highlight of the event was the felicitation of Hazrat Maulana Ghiyas Ahmad Rashadi , President of Safah Bait-ul-Mal and Manbar-Mihrab Foundation, for his remarkable completion of the Tafsir al-Quran. The honor was bestowed by Qari Muhammad Abdul Rahman Shahid and his brothers.

The event concluded with a heartfelt special prayer led by Ustaad-ul-Qura’ Hazrat Maulana Qari Muhammad Ali Khan , marking the culmination of an inspiring evening dedicated to the Quran and its recitation.

The Final Sunset of 2024: A Year of Challenges and Hope in India

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By Hyder Ali – Pic, Aleem Style

As the sun sets on December 31, 2024, marking the end of another year, we pause to reflect on the moments that shaped India over the past twelve months. The glowing hues of this evening’s sunset seem to capture the essence of a year filled with trials, triumphs, and enduring hope. Tomorrow, as the first sunrise of 2025 graces the skies, it will bring with it a renewed sense of possibility.

The Last Sunset of 2024 Over the Musi River

Birds soar gracefully across the sky as the sun sets on the final evening of 2024, casting a golden glow over the Musi River. The historic Telangana High Court stands tall in the backdrop, marking the end of another year in Hyderabad. The tranquil scene, captured on Tuesday evening, showcases the perfect blend of nature and heritage, a poignant reminder of the passage of time and the beauty of continuity.

The Shadows of 2024: Divisions and Challenges

This year bore witness to significant socio-political events, including the Ahmedabad incidents that left the nation grappling with questions of unity and humanity. The polarizing narratives spun around religious identities—Hindu and Muslim—fueled tensions, as political agendas sought to deepen divides for electoral gains. The consequences of this hatred were felt deeply, shaking the foundations of India’s cherished secularism.

However, amidst the storm of division, there were also sparks of resilience. Communities came together to oppose such divisive forces, demonstrating that the spirit of unity still thrives in the hearts of many Indians.

Moments of Pride and Progress

2024 was not without its share of positive milestones. The Chandrayaan-4 mission cemented India’s position as a leader in space exploration. Sports brought the nation together, with athletes like Nikhat Zareen and Neeraj Chopra inspiring millions through their achievements on the global stage. Initiatives in technology, renewable energy, and education showed promise for a brighter future.

The year also saw ordinary citizens performing extraordinary acts of kindness—feeding the hungry, supporting flood victims, and spreading messages of peace. These moments remind us of the India we aspire to be: inclusive, compassionate, and forward-looking.

Looking Ahead: A New Dawn in 2025

As the clock strikes midnight, heralding the arrival of 2025, we are filled with the hope that this new year will bring peace not only to India but to the entire world. Let it be a year where hatred gives way to understanding, where progress is not measured merely in economic terms but also in the harmony of our lives.

May the new year usher in an era of shared joy, renewed hope, and unshakeable unity. Let 2025 be a beacon of peace, spreading happiness and harmony across borders and bringing light into every life.

As we bid farewell to 2024, let us carry forward its lessons and embrace the promise of a better tomorrow.

Happy New Year!

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