Important News - 2025-05-24
24 May 2025
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Politics (3)
Andhra Pradesh and Telangana Strengthen Inter-State Cooperation on Civil Supplies and Asset Transfer
On May 23, 2025, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana held discussions on key inter-state issues in Hyderabad, focusing on the transfer of assets and cooperation in the civil supplies sector. Andhra Pradesh Civil Supply Minister Nadendla Manohar announced the complete handover of the A.P. Civil Supply building, spanning 25,000 square feet, to Telangana. Both states agreed to enhance technological collaboration, with Andhra Pradesh adopting advancements from Telangana. Additionally, Manohar emphasized the importance of maintaining good relations between the states and highlighted the benefits for farmers and consumers. He also mentioned the introduction of fine rice in Andhra Pradesh's midday meal scheme starting June 12, 2025. Telangana Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy acknowledged Manohar's role in the passage of the Telangana Bill during the state's bifurcation and discussed the transfer of assets, including the remaining portion of the Civil Supply building and Shanti Shikhar Apartments, to Telangana from June 1, 2025. The discussions also covered measures to curb illegal transportation of grains and improve the civil supplies policy of both states.
Madras High Court Directs DGP to Probe Police Interference in Civil Dispute
The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has directed the Director-General of Police (DGP) to investigate and take action against police officers who allegedly interfered in a civil dispute. The case pertains to a petition filed in 2024 by M. Rajesh Kumar, who accused the then Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) of Tirunelveli, responsible for crimes against women and children, of harassing him under the guise of investigating a complaint filed by S. Palavesamuthu in 2023. The court noted that a similar complaint by Palavesamuthu in 2011 was dismissed as a 'mistake of fact.' The ASP had issued summons under Sections 91 and 160 of the CrPC, which are applicable only after a case is registered. The court observed that the Police Standing Order and a 2008 Supreme Court circular prohibit police from investigating civil disputes or using criminal law to support civil rights. The DGP had also issued a similar circular in 2024. The court referred the matter to the DGP to inquire into the actions of the then Deputy Inspector-General of Police and the ASP, and to take appropriate action if they favored Palavesamuthu in the civil dispute.
PM Modi and Leaders Extend Birthday Greetings to Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan on His 80th Birthday
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with State Ministers and various political leaders, extended birthday wishes to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on his 80th birthday, which fell on Saturday. Despite the milestone, there were no formal celebrations as Vijayan remained occupied with his official duties. His birthday followed the fourth anniversary of his second term as Chief Minister, a position he has held since May 25, 2016. Vijayan, a member of the CPI(M) Polit Bureau, received messages from prominent figures, including Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, and Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, who personally visited him. Actors Mohanlal and Mammootty also conveyed their greetings via social media. Vijayan’s wife, daughter, and son-in-law, Public Works Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas, were present during the Governor’s visit. While official records state his birthdate as March 21, 1944, Vijayan clarified it is actually May 24, 1945.
Schemes (1)
Congress Government Unveils Three-Pronged Strategy to Tackle Unemployment in Telangana
Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka announced that the Congress government in Telangana is implementing a three-pronged strategy to address unemployment in the state. The strategy focuses on providing job opportunities in both government and private sectors, as well as promoting self-employment through skill and entrepreneurship development. Speaking at the inauguration of a mega job mela in Wyra town, Khammam district, Vikramarka criticized the previous BRS government for failing to fill 2 lakh vacancies and not conducting a single Group-I services recruitment exam during its 10-year rule. He highlighted that the current government has already filled 56,000 government jobs in its first year and is working to fill an additional 30,000. The government is also focusing on infrastructure development to attract multinational companies, thereby creating more private sector jobs. Additionally, ₹9,000 crore has been allocated under the Rajiv Yuva Vikasam scheme to promote self-employment among youth. Sanction letters for this scheme will be distributed to 5 lakh youth on June 2, coinciding with Telangana Formation Day. The job mela, organized in association with the Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL), saw participation from over 80 private companies and attracted 5,800 job seekers.
Heritage (2)
Kambalakonda Eco-Tourism Park: A Hub for Conservation and Adventure in Visakhapatnam
Kambalakonda Eco-Tourism Park, located in Visakhapatnam, offers a serene escape amidst nature, blending lush forests, wildlife, and adventure activities. Spread over 71 square kilometers, the park is part of the Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary, which boasts a rich ecological diversity, including tropical deciduous forests, scrublands, and perennial water bodies. The park is being revitalized under the Central Government's Nagar Van Yojana (NVY), which aims to develop urban green spaces by 2025. Recent upgrades include the construction of rustic cottages, a yoga and meditation center, an amphitheater, and enhanced trekking routes. The park is also a biodiversity hotspot, home to over 120 bird species and several mammals and reptiles, including the rare Barkudia limbless skink. Adventure activities such as rappelling, zip-lining, and kayaking are available, catering to families and thrill-seekers alike. The park aims to promote eco-tourism and conservation, offering visitors an immersive experience in nature.
Sivakasi Fireworks Industry Applies for GI Tag to Boost Recognition and Exports
The Sivakasi fireworks industry, which has been active for over a century, has applied for a Geographical Indications (GI) tag through the Tamil Nadu Fireworks and Amorces Manufacturers Association (TANFAMA). The application, filed under the manufactured goods category by Advocate and IPR Attorney P. Suganthi, seeks to recognize the unique identity of Sivakasi Fireworks. Located in Tamil Nadu, Sivakasi produces over 80% of India’s fireworks, with a market size of approximately ₹6,000 crore, growing at 10% annually. The region’s dry climate is ideal for firework manufacturing, and the industry employs thousands across villages like Vemkottai, Virudhunagar, Sattur, Srivilliputhur, and Kovilpatti. The GI tag aims to curb illegal units, prevent accidents, and support exports. The industry also plays a role in defense and aviation, with Sivakasi rockets used in armed forces training and bird repellent systems at airports. Historically, the industry began with three companies in 1942 and has since grown to over 1,000 units, generating significant employment. However, challenges like pollution concerns and reluctance among the younger generation to continue the business persist. The GI tag is seen as a potential solution to these issues.
World Affairs (2)
Southwest Monsoon Causes Widespread Damage in Thiruvananthapuram District
The southwest monsoon arrived in Kerala on Saturday, bringing much-needed relief from the scorching heat for residents. However, strong winds accompanying the monsoon caused extensive damage in Thiruvananthapuram district. On May 24 and 25, 2025, winds uprooted trees, toppled billboards, and caused severe structural damage, including the collapse of a portion of the Green Field Stadium’s roof. Additionally, heavy rainfall led to flooding in low-lying areas and frequent power outages. The India Meteorological Department issued an orange alert for Thiruvananthapuram, warning of very heavy rainfall. The storm also caused significant crop damage, particularly in Andoorkonam panchayat and other parts of the district, with over 100 banana plantations destroyed. The storm affected key locations, including Raj Bhavan in Vellayambalam, the Press Club, and Fort Hospital.
Andhra Pradesh Government Develops Comprehensive Film Policy to Boost Industry
The Andhra Pradesh government is working on a comprehensive film development policy to enhance the skills of individuals involved in the 24 crafts of film production and distribution. Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan stated that the government will engage only with representatives of film associations rather than individuals. He criticized the lack of respect shown by film bodies towards the government, despite the NDA's support for the industry. The government is planning to grant industry status to films and address issues related to ticket pricing and tax collection. Additionally, there will be a review of discrepancies between reported ticket sales and actual tax revenues. The Cinematography Department has been instructed to report on the number of multiplex theaters and the practice of dividing single-screen setups into multiple screens. The government will monitor key cities including Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, and Tirupati for compliance.
Miscellaneous (4)
DDMA Reviews Safety Measures Amid Heavy Rainfall in Kozhikode
On May 24, the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) convened a meeting to assess preparedness in Kozhikode district following continuous heavy rainfall. District Collector Snehil Kumar Singh, who also serves as the DDMA chairman, directed revenue squads to oversee village-level activities to minimize the impact of rain-induced disasters. He also ensured the readiness of relief camps for emergency relocations in case of landslides or other incidents. The Irrigation Department was tasked with monitoring water levels in reservoirs and rivers, while tourist access to major water tourism destinations, including beaches, was restricted. Mining and quarrying activities were suspended until further notice, and rescue teams, including fire force, police, and community squads, were placed on standby. The Army has pledged support in the event of landslides or flooding. The heavy rain caused disruptions, including uprooted trees in Puthiyangadi and Karassery panchayat, damaging houses and compound walls. Additionally, the approach road of a bridge under construction near Kottamuzhi collapsed for the fourth time, prompting the state government to allocate ₹4.21 crore for the project.
Cyberabad Traffic Review Meeting Prioritizes Pedestrian Safety and Accident Prevention
A comprehensive traffic review meeting was held in Cyberabad on May 24, 2024, focusing on enhancing pedestrian safety and addressing accident-prone zones. The meeting, led by Cyberabad Joint Police Commissioner (Traffic) Gajarao Bhupal, included traffic officials from across the commissionerate. Key discussions centered on accident statistics for the first four months of 2024 and 2025, with particular emphasis on the Outer Ring Road (ORR), identified as a black spot. Measures proposed included installing barricades at crossing points, maintaining footpaths, and adjusting signal timings to improve pedestrian safety. Additionally, the meeting addressed wrong-side driving, CCTV surveillance, and improved parking systems to ease congestion. With the monsoon season approaching, officials were instructed to cover open manholes and ensure smooth traffic flow.
Kozhikode Enhances Disaster Preparedness in Landslide-Prone Areas
On May 24, disaster management squads in Kozhikode intensified surveillance in upland areas prone to landslides during the monsoon season. Acting on the District Collector’s instructions, the Revenue squad reviewed safety measures in Vilangad, a highly vulnerable location that suffered significant damage from a landslide last year. Two relief camps have been identified, capable of accommodating up to 200 people, and sufficient stocks of rice and food materials have been ensured at village ration shops. The local rescue squads are considering installing an emergency alarm system and have issued alerts to nearby tribal settlements to remain vigilant against potential natural calamities.
Pawan Kalyan Fans Warn Against Disruption to ‘Hari Hara Veera Mallu’ Screening
Ahead of the release of Pawan Kalyan’s movie ‘Hari Hara Veera Mallu’, concerns have arisen within the film industry. Fans of the actor have warned of taking action if the screening of the film is disrupted by industry stakeholders. K. Kiran Rayal, the Jana Sena Party’s Tirupati constituency in-charge, has urged the governments of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana to mediate and resolve the issue amicably. This follows the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce’s (TFCC) call to halt film screenings from June 1, a decision that remains uncertain. Rayal emphasized that his statements were made as a fan and not on behalf of the party, highlighting Pawan Kalyan’s philanthropic efforts through his film earnings and expressing concern over potential disruptions to the film’s success.
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