The district administration organised a series of programmes, with Revenue, Stamps and Registration Minister Angani Satya Prasad highlighting the government’s focus on the development of Visakhapatnam.

₹397.33 Crore in Assets Distributed

As part of the Independence Day programme, 30,366 beneficiaries received assets worth a combined ₹397.33 crore, including house pattas, according to the source report.

The initiative was presented as part of the government’s efforts to support beneficiaries and promote development in the city and district.

South Coast Railway Marks First Independence Day

The celebrations were particularly significant for South Coast Railway (SCoR), which observed its first Independence Day after becoming the country’s 18th zonal railway.

The ceremony was held at the Railway Cricket Ground in Visakhapatnam.

SCoR General Manager Sandeep Mathur hoisted the national flag, following which an RPF contingent presented a ceremonial salute. The General Manager also inspected the parade.

New Railway Zone Highlights

Addressing the gathering, Mathur highlighted the progress made by South Coast Railway since its operationalisation on June 1, 2026.

The new railway zone comprises four divisions:

Visakhapatnam

Vijayawada

Guntur

Guntakal

According to the source report, SCoR covers approximately 3,532 route kilometres and 6,455 track kilometres.

The celebrations marked an important milestone for Visakhapatnam as the newly operationalised railway zone joined the city’s Independence Day festivities for the first time.

District Congress Committee president Boya Kranti Naidu, speaking at the party office, said the movement played an important role in India’s struggle against British rule.

Leaders Recall 1942 Movement

Naidu recalled the adoption of the Quit India resolution in 1942 and Mahatma Gandhi’s famous “Do or Die” call.

He said the movement intensified the struggle against British rule and became an important chapter in the journey towards Independence in 1947.

Rally at Kondareddy Buruju

Earlier, Congress leaders and workers organised a rally at Kondareddy Buruju in Kurnool.

They paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi and participated in the Independence Day flag-hoisting ceremony before proceeding to the party office.

The programme was held as part of the celebrations marking 80 years of India’s Independence.

The accident involved around 63 passengers across the two buses. Despite the severity of the collision, only three people were reported to have sustained minor injuries.

Driver Fatigue Suspected

Police suspect that driver drowsiness may have contributed to the accident. The APSRTC bus driver became trapped inside the vehicle following the collision.

Police, fire service personnel and teams working along NH-65 rushed to the scene and began rescue operations.

Under the supervision of Munagala Sub-Inspector Sanjeev Reddy, rescuers reportedly worked for around two hours to free the trapped driver from the bus.

Authorities are continuing to assess the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Addressing the nation on the occasion of India’s 80th Independence Day at Hyderabad’s Golconda Fort, Revanth Reddy said pending irrigation projects would be completed on a priority basis to benefit farmers.

He also said the government was working towards doubling the state’s GSDP and positioning Telangana to compete globally rather than merely with other Indian states.

Water Projects and Farmers’ Welfare

The Chief Minister said Telangana’s interests in Krishna and Godavari waters would be firmly protected.

He announced that pending projects would be taken up according to priority and indicated that the Palamuru project would be completed soon to provide irrigation water.

Revanth Reddy said his government was working to move the state from what he described as a period of disruption towards development, with policies, legislation, major projects and international-standard infrastructure being planned for the future.

Focus on Jobs and Digital Governance

The CM urged unemployed youth to concentrate on competitive examinations following the release of recruitment notifications for government and police jobs.

He also announced plans to introduce an online Praja Vani system, allowing citizens to submit complaints and applications remotely.

The Chief Minister highlighted the contribution of government employees to attracting investments and implementing welfare programmes. He said salaries were being paid on the first of every month and that ₹6,000 crore in pending payments had been cleared for retired employees within 100 days.

Welfare and Agriculture

According to the figures presented in his speech, Telangana’s per-capita income reached ₹4,18,931 in 2025-26, which he said was about 91% higher than the national per-capita income.

The government, he said, had spent ₹1.70 lakh crore on farmer welfare and implemented loan waivers of up to ₹2 lakh. A further ₹36,000 crore had been provided under Rythu Bharosa, he said.

The government also claimed that revisions to minimum wages benefited around 1.11 crore workers.

Under the Mahalakshmi scheme, around 34 lakh women are using free travel on state-run RTC buses every day, according to the CM.

Indiramma Housing and Investment Push

Revanth Reddy said the government had sanctioned 5.5 lakh Indiramma houses in the second phase, with a focus on providing housing to the urban poor during the current year.

He also highlighted the state’s investment drive, stating that investments worth ₹1.95 lakh crore had been secured through TG-iPASS, with more than 78,000 additional employment opportunities expected.

The Chief Minister said Amazon was investing $7 billion in Telangana.

HYDRA and Musi Rejuvenation

The government has established HYDRA to protect lakes, nalas and government land, Revanth Reddy said.

He also highlighted the Musi rejuvenation programme, under which integrated development is being undertaken along a 55-kilometre stretch. He appealed to people affected by the project to cooperate with the government.

The state is also strengthening public healthcare infrastructure, including a new Osmania Hospital in Goshamahal at an estimated cost of ₹2,700 crore and super-speciality facilities in Warangal, Sanathnagar, Alwal and LB Nagar.

Future City as Global Investment Hub

Revanth Reddy said the government aims to develop Bharat Future City as India’s first net-zero smart city and position it as a major destination for global investment.

He thanked farmers who provided land for the project and said the government would support them with appropriate compensation.

Education and Youth Development

The CM said education reforms had helped Telangana improve its position in the education index from 21st to 14th.

The government is constructing an integrated school in every constituency and has allocated ₹1,000 crore to Osmania University, he said.

He also highlighted the establishment of a Skills University to provide young people with education, skills and employment opportunities.

Recruitment efforts include notifications for 456 posts through TGPSC and 7,437 police positions, according to the speech. The government also plans to convert 57 polytechnic colleges into Advanced Training Centres.

The festival is observed during the Hindu month of Shravana and is traditionally marked by special prayers and rituals, particularly by women seeking prosperity and well-being for their families.

Educational Institutions Included

If covered under the applicable government holiday orders, the closure would extend to schools and various categories of educational institutions.

These may include:

Schools

Junior colleges

Degree colleges

Professional colleges

Integrated schools

Residential educational institutions

Government offices and other state-run institutions are also expected to observe the holiday where applicable.

Festival Observance

Varalakshmi Vratam is celebrated with devotional ceremonies and special worship of Goddess Lakshmi.

The proposed holiday is intended to allow students, teachers, government employees and members of the public to participate in the festival without their regular institutional commitments.

Important: The exact applicability of the holiday to private educational institutions and specific categories of colleges will depend on the respective government orders and institutional schedules.

The initiative, named the Telangana Auto-Rickshaw Electric Conversion Scheme–2026, is expected to support the conversion of 18,766 auto-rickshaws in the CURE area.

Over 18,000 Autos Covered

Under the scheme, 11,254 diesel-powered and 7,512 petrol-powered auto-rickshaws are proposed to be converted into electric vehicles.

Eligible auto-rickshaw drivers will receive a ₹1.5 lakh subsidy for converting their existing vehicles. A separate subsidy of ₹1.5 lakh is proposed for those opting to purchase a new electric auto-rickshaw.

Retrofit or Buy a New Electric Auto

Drivers will have two options under the programme. They can retrofit their existing petrol or diesel auto-rickshaws using AIS-123-approved kits, with either fixed or swappable battery systems.

Alternatively, they can surrender their existing vehicle and purchase a new electric auto-rickshaw with the applicable subsidy.

Three-Tier Monitoring System

The government has proposed a three-tier monitoring mechanism to oversee implementation of the conversion programme.

According to the information provided, ₹50 crore each has been allocated from the budgets of the SC, ST, BC and Minority departments to support the initiative.

Focus on Cleaner Transport

The scheme is intended to reduce pollution and greenhouse-gas emissions from road transportation while helping auto-rickshaw operators lower their fuel-related expenses.

The programme is also positioned as an initial step towards gradually replacing conventional petrol and diesel auto-rickshaws with electric vehicles across Hyderabad and Telangana.

The move marks a major development for aviation infrastructure in North Andhra, with Bhogapuram set to handle both domestic and international passenger services.

First Flights to Take Off From Bhogapuram

The new airport is scheduled to welcome its first passengers from August 17. Several airlines operating from Visakhapatnam have reportedly released schedules for their services from the new airport.

The transition is expected to bring a significant change to the region's air connectivity, with Bhogapuram emerging as the new aviation hub for North Andhra.

Major Milestone for North Andhra

Bhogapuram International Airport has been developed to accommodate both domestic and international flights. The commencement of passenger operations is being viewed as a major milestone in the region's aviation history.

The shift of flight operations from Visakhapatnam to Bhogapuram is expected to mark the beginning of a new phase in North Andhra's air-travel infrastructure.

Chief Minister Vijay participated in the celebrations and unfurled the National Flag at the Secretariat.

ACTOR TRISHA ATTENDS EVENT

The ceremony was attended by Chief Minister Vijay's parents along with popular actor Trisha.

The presence of the actor added further attention to the Independence Day celebrations held at the state Secretariat.

KEY POINTS

Tamil Nadu observed the 80th Independence Day with official celebrations.

The main ceremony was held at the Chennai Secretariat.

CM Vijay unfurled the National Flag.

Vijay's parents attended the event.

Actor Trisha also participated in the celebrations.

The TDB and Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) are making arrangements to provide facilities for devotees visiting the temple.

TEMPLE TO OPEN AT 5 PM

According to the TDB statement, the temple will be reopened at 5 pm on Sunday in the presence of temple priest Kandararu Brahmadathan.

The main priest, Prasad E.D., will open the temple for the Chingam month rituals.

DARSHAN FOR DEVOTEES FROM AUGUST 17

Devotees will be allowed darshan from 5 am on August 17, marking the beginning of the Malayalam New Year.

The temple authorities and transport services are preparing arrangements to manage the expected flow of pilgrims.

TEMPLE TO CLOSE ON AUGUST 21

After the completion of the Chingam month pujas, the temple will be closed at 10 pm on August 21.

It will subsequently reopen on August 24 for the Onam festival pujas.

KEY DATES

Event Date & Time

Temple reopening August 16, 5 PM

Devotee darshan begins August 17, 5 AM

Chingam pujas conclude / temple closes August 21, 10 PM

Temple reopens for Onam pujas August 24

KEY POINTS

Sabarimala temple will reopen Sunday evening.

Reopening is for Chingam month pujas.

Devotee darshan begins August 17 at 5 AM.

TDB and KSRTC are making arrangements for pilgrims.

Temple closes again on August 21 at 10 PM.

It reopens on August 24 for Onam festival pujas.

HYDERABAD, August 15, 2026: Students pursuing MBBS and BDS courses in private medical colleges across Telangana will have to pay tuition fees for four-and-a-half years only, according to fresh orders issued by the Telangana Admission and Fee Regulatory Committee (TAFRC).

The committee has also directed colleges that collected additional fees for the extra six months to refund the excess amount to students.

WHAT HAPPENED

TAFRC issued detailed orders covering private minority and non-minority medical colleges across Telangana.

The orders specify the applicable:

Total course fee

Annual fee

Fee payable for the final six-month period

The fee structures have been separately listed for the 2021–23 and 2023–26 block periods.

SIX-MONTH EXTRA FEE ISSUE

Several private medical colleges had reportedly been collecting fees as though MBBS and BDS courses extended for five years.

However, the actual academic course duration is four-and-a-half years.

Students and parents argued that charging an additional six months of fees placed a substantial financial burden on medical students.

According to the report, the additional burden was approximately:

B-Category students: ₹6–7 lakh

C-Category students: ₹13–15 lakh

STUDENTS APPROACHED HIGH COURT

Students and parents had been raising the issue for some time and also approached the Telangana High Court.

The court directed the fee-regulatory authority responsible for determining medical-college fees to address the matter.

Following this, TAFRC issued the latest clarification that fees should be collected only for the actual 4.5-year course duration.

REFUNDS FOR EXCESS COLLECTION

The TAFRC orders reportedly require private colleges to return money collected from students for the additional six-month period.

One private medical college near Hyderabad has already informed students that it would refund the excess amount collected, according to the report.

The decision is therefore expected to require other colleges that collected additional fees to follow the same approach.

DIFFERENT FEE BLOCK PERIODS

TAFRC has specified different fee structures for two block periods because the approved fees changed between them.

For the 2021–23 block period, one private college's B-Category total course tuition fee was fixed at ₹56.25 lakh.

The annual payment was set at ₹12.50 lakh, meaning students would need to pay only ₹6.25 lakh for the final six months.

For the 2023–26 block period, the same college's total course fee was fixed at ₹58.50 lakh, with an annual fee of ₹13 lakh.

Therefore, the fee for the final six months would be ₹6.5 lakh, rather than a full year's fee.

The same principle applies to C-Category students, according to the report.

2026–29 BATCH

The report says the government has recently ordered that the existing fee structure will continue for the 2026–29 block period.

Therefore, students entering MBBS and BDS courses this year will also be subject to the fee structure approved for the 2023–26 block period, according to the report.

STUDENTS AND PARENTS WELCOME DECISION

Malloju Satyanarayana Chary, president of the Parents Association of Medical Students (PAMS), welcomed the decision.

He said thousands of medical students had faced difficulties because of the additional six-month fee and that the latest decision would reduce their financial burden by lakhs of rupees.

KEY POINTS

MBBS and BDS students need to pay fees for 4.5 years only.

TAFRC issued orders covering private medical colleges across Telangana.

Colleges must reportedly refund excess fees collected for the additional six months.

B-Category students could see relief of around ₹6–7 lakh in cases cited by the report.

C-Category students could see relief of around ₹13–15 lakh.

Orders cover the 2021–23 and 2023–26 block periods.

The 2023–26 fee structure will reportedly apply to the 2026–29 block period.

The decision follows a prolonged campaign by students and parents and intervention by the High Court.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT

Private medical colleges will have to implement the TAFRC orders and calculate refunds wherever fees were collected for the additional six-month period.

The decision could provide substantial financial relief to thousands of MBBS and BDS students and their families across Telangana.

HYDERABAD, August 15, 2026: Large-scale irregularities have reportedly surfaced in Telangana's Custom Milled Rice (CMR) system, with Vigilance and Enforcement officials identifying a shortage of 3,72,693.23 tonnes of grain across 89 rice mills, according to the report.

The value of the missing grain has been estimated at ₹927.16 crore.

WHAT HAPPENED

According to the report, the government purchases paddy from farmers using funds raised through bank loans and subsequently supplies the grain to rice millers for processing.

The millers are required to return rice to the government after milling. Officials reportedly found that substantial quantities of government-supplied grain had instead been diverted and sold.

The irregularities relate largely to the 2022–23 Rabi and 2025–26 Kharif seasons.

₹715 CRORE RECOVERED

Vigilance and Enforcement officials have been conducting statewide inspections since July 21 under the leadership of Vigilance Director General D.S. Chauhan.

According to the report, officials identified irregularities worth around ₹927.14 crore within three weeks and recovered approximately ₹715 crore from millers.

The recovery drive intensified following directions from the state government to recover government grain and take strict action against those responsible.

CRIMINAL CASES AND ARRESTS

Officials reportedly gave millers a short deadline to repay the value of diverted grain.

Where the amount involved was substantial, millers were reportedly required to provide an undertaking to pay 50% of the amount within a week.

Those who failed to respond faced criminal proceedings.

So far:

28 cases have been registered.

50 people have reportedly been named as accused.

26 millers have been arrested.

EXTENT OF THE SHORTAGE

The inspections reportedly identified the following discrepancies:

Category Grain shortage

CMR grain shortage 1,84,669.88 tonnes

Auction grain shortage 1,88,023.35 tonnes

Total missing grain 3,72,693.23 tonnes

The report says the shortages relate to different seasons between Rabi 2022–23 and Kharif 2025–26.

21 DISTRICTS UNDER SCANNER

Officials reportedly detected irregularities in rice mills across 21 districts.

The report identifies Suryapet, Nizamabad and Jagitial among the districts where large quantities of grain were allegedly diverted.

The supplied report indicates that detailed figures for the five districts with the highest irregularities were to follow, but those figures are not included in the text provided.

GOVERNMENT CRACKDOWN

The crackdown follows Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy's decision to take strict action against millers allegedly involved in irregularities.

Civil Supplies Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy also reportedly directed officials to recover every grain supplied to millers.

Vigilance and Civil Supplies officials have therefore intensified inspections and recovery operations.

KEY FIGURES

89 rice mills inspected with reported shortages.

3,72,693.23 tonnes of grain reportedly missing.

Estimated value: ₹927.16 crore.

Around ₹715 crore reportedly recovered.

28 criminal cases registered.

50 accused named.

26 millers arrested.

Irregularities detected across 21 districts.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT

Vigilance and Civil Supplies officials are expected to continue inspections and recovery operations across Telangana. Further criminal action could follow against millers and other persons found responsible for diverting government grain.

HYDERABAD, August 15, 2026: Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka said the state government is prepared to work with Karnataka to promote the bio-energy and biofuel sectors and attract greater investment in the coming years.

The discussions took place when Sudheendra, Chairman of the Karnataka State Bio-Energy Development Board, met Bhatti Vikramarka at Shamshabad airport.

WHAT HAPPENED

The two leaders discussed opportunities for developing the biofuel sector in Telangana and Karnataka.

Sudheendra briefed Bhatti Vikramarka on the progress of biofuel-related programmes being implemented in Karnataka.

COMPRESSED BIOGAS AND BIOFUELS

During the meeting, Sudheendra explained Karnataka's action plans for the development of:

Compressed Biogas (CBG)

Biofuels

Other bio-energy initiatives

He also discussed Karnataka's proposed new bio-energy policy and the measures being considered to expand the sector.

TELANGANA'S INVESTMENT FOCUS

Bhatti Vikramarka responded positively to the proposals and said Telangana was ready to create a favourable environment for attracting additional investments in bio-energy.

He said cooperation between the two states could help accelerate development in the energy sector.

TWO-STATE COOPERATION

The Deputy Chief Minister expressed the hope that cooperation between Telangana and Karnataka would provide a foundation for strengthening the energy sectors of both states.

The collaboration could facilitate the exchange of ideas, policy approaches and investment opportunities in bio-energy.

KEY POINTS

Telangana and Karnataka plan to cooperate in the bio-energy sector.

Deputy CM Bhatti Vikramarka expressed support for greater collaboration.

Karnataka's biofuel programmes were discussed.

Compressed biogas and biofuels were key areas of discussion.

Karnataka's proposed new bio-energy policy was also presented.

Telangana wants to create a favourable environment to attract more investment.

The two states see cooperation as a potential foundation for energy-sector development.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT

The two states are expected to explore further opportunities for cooperation in biofuels, compressed biogas and investment, with Telangana focusing on creating an environment conducive to new projects.

GHATKESAR, MEDCHAL, August 15, 2026: A 17-year-old girl, identified as Shravani, died in a road accident on the Warangal–Hyderabad highway near Ghatkesar on Saturday.

According to the report, a speeding lorry collided with the motorcycle on which Shravani was travelling with her parents.

WHAT HAPPENED

The impact of the collision was severe, and Shravani died on the spot.

Her parents, identified as Suresh and Uma, sustained serious injuries in the accident.

They were immediately shifted to a hospital, where they are receiving medical treatment.

DRIVER FLEES

Following the accident, the lorry driver reportedly abandoned the vehicle at the scene and fled.

Police have begun efforts to trace the driver.

POLICE INVESTIGATION

Police registered a case in connection with the accident and launched an investigation.

Officials are examining the circumstances surrounding the collision and the driver's alleged negligence.

KEY POINTS

Accident occurred near Ghatkesar on the Warangal–Hyderabad highway.

17-year-old Shravani died at the scene.

Her parents, Suresh and Uma, suffered serious injuries.

The injured parents were shifted to hospital for treatment.

The lorry driver allegedly fled after abandoning the vehicle.

Police registered a case and launched an investigation.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT

Police are continuing the investigation and efforts to identify and apprehend the driver involved in the accident.

HYDERABAD, August 15, 2026: Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar launched a strong attack on the Telangana Congress government during Independence Day-related events, alleging that the government was unstable and questioning its decisions concerning smart ration cards.

WHAT HAPPENED

Bandi Sanjay said he would organise a mass singing of Vande Mataram at the Bhagyalakshmi Temple in Hyderabad's Old City, involving lakhs of people.

He challenged leaders of the AIMIM to oppose the programme, according to his remarks.

Vande Mataram

Bandi Sanjay said that insulting the national song Vande Mataram would attract punishment under the law, including imprisonment and a fine.

He questioned criticism directed at those who, he said, were acting in accordance with the law.

ATTACK ON CONGRESS GOVERNMENT

The Union Minister described the Telangana Congress government as unstable and used a Telugu expression suggesting that the government could collapse very easily.

He also criticised the inclusion of photographs of the Chief Minister and ministers on smart ration cards, questioning the rationale behind the move.

RATION CARD CONTROVERSY

Bandi Sanjay referred to the experience of Karnataka, claiming that smart cards produced during the tenure of former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah became unusable despite hundreds of crores of rupees being spent on them.

He used the example to question Telangana's smart-ration-card initiative.

CENTRAL RATION SUPPORT

Bandi Sanjay said the Central Government was providing free rice to nearly two crore people in Telangana.

He questioned why Prime Minister Narendra Modi's photograph was not being displayed on the ration cards if the Centre was providing the rice.

He also questioned whether the state government did not require the food grain supplied through the Central Government.

KEY POINTS

Bandi Sanjay announced plans for a mass Vande Mataram programme at Bhagyalakshmi Temple.

He challenged AIMIM leaders to oppose the proposed programme.

He said insulting Vande Mataram could attract legal punishment.

He criticised the Telangana Congress government over smart ration cards.

He questioned the use of CM and ministers' photographs on ration cards.

He said the Centre provides free rice to nearly 2 crore people in Telangana, according to his remarks.

He questioned why PM Modi's photograph was not included on the ration cards.

POLITICAL RESPONSE

Bandi Sanjay's remarks represent a direct political attack on the Telangana Congress government and its welfare and ration-card policies.

His comments on Vande Mataram and the Bhagyalakshmi Temple are also likely to become part of the wider political debate in Telangana over nationalism, religion and public programmes.

BACKGROUND

The remarks came during Independence Day celebrations, when political leaders across Telangana were highlighting their respective positions on governance, welfare and development.

The Congress government has been implementing a new ration-card distribution process, while the BJP has continued to criticise aspects of the state's welfare administration.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT

The proposed mass Vande Mataram programme and the debate over smart ration cards are likely to remain politically contentious issues in Telangana.

HYDERABAD, August 15, 2026: Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy said the state would not compromise on its water rights and promised to complete pending irrigation projects to bring greater relief to farmers. He made the remarks while addressing the Independence Day celebrations at Golconda Fort.

WHAT HAPPENED

After unfurling the national flag at the celebrations, Revanth Reddy said education and healthcare were among the government's highest priorities.

He said the government was simultaneously pursuing development and welfare programmes across multiple sectors.

TELANGANA'S WATER RIGHTS

Revanth Reddy said Telangana would continue to protect its rightful share of water and would not compromise on the state's interests.

He said pending irrigation projects would be completed with the objective of bringing water to farmers and improving agricultural conditions.

EDUCATION

The Chief Minister highlighted several initiatives in the education sector.

According to his address:

Telangana's position in the education index improved from 21st to 14th.

An integrated school is being planned in every Assembly constituency.

The government aims to construct more than 100 Telangana Public Schools.

Government schools are providing breakfast and lunch to students.

HEALTHCARE

Revanth Reddy said construction of a new building for Osmania General Hospital was underway.

He also said buildings were being constructed for eight new medical colleges across the state.

EMPLOYMENT AND INVESTMENT

The Chief Minister said investments worth ₹1.95 lakh crore had been secured through TS-iPASS.

He said these investments were expected to generate more than 78,000 additional employment opportunities.

Revanth Reddy also said prominent companies were establishing Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in Hyderabad, with more than 355 GCCs already operating in the city, according to his address.

AMAZON INVESTMENT

The Chief Minister said Amazon was investing $7 billion in Telangana, highlighting the state's efforts to attract major global companies and expand its technology and business ecosystem.

WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT

Revanth Reddy said the government had set an ambitious target of making one crore women financially prosperous.

He also highlighted a programme under which women have been enabled to become owners of TSRTC rental buses.

RATION CARDS

The Chief Minister said more than 15 lakh new ration cards had been sanctioned.

He announced that the distribution of the second phase of new ration cards was beginning on Independence Day.

SPORTS

Revanth Reddy said the government had conducted CM Cup competitions to identify sporting talent.

He also said Hyderabad will host the upcoming Khelo India competitions, according to his address.

OTHER INITIATIVES

The Chief Minister said Telangana had undertaken reforms to strengthen the Telangana Public Service Commission (TGPSC) and prevent irregularities.

He also highlighted legislation concerning the protection of elderly parents, saying Telangana was the first state to enact such legislation.

KEY POINTS

Telangana will not compromise on its water rights, Revanth Reddy said.

Pending irrigation projects will be completed with a focus on farmers.

New buildings are being constructed for Osmania General Hospital and eight medical colleges.

Education ranking improved from 21st to 14th, according to the CM.

₹1.95 lakh crore investment secured through TS-iPASS, according to the address.

More than 78,000 jobs are expected from upcoming investments.

Hyderabad has more than 355 GCCs, according to the Chief Minister.

Amazon is investing $7 billion in Telangana, he said.

Government has sanctioned more than 15 lakh new ration cards.

Telangana is targeting economic empowerment for one crore women.

BACKGROUND

Revanth Reddy's Independence Day address covered a wide range of government priorities, including irrigation and water rights, education, healthcare, investment, employment, sports, welfare and women's empowerment.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT

The government's focus will be on completing pending irrigation and infrastructure projects, implementing welfare measures and converting announced investments into actual industrial activity and employment opportunities.

RAJAMAHENDRAVARAM, August 15, 2026: Nursery farmers in Kadiyam of East Godavari district created a special representation of “Vande Mataram” using 85,000 plants to mark Independence Day and introduce the spirit of the national song's 150-year legacy to the present generation.

WHAT HAPPENED

The distinctive plant design was created at Palla Venkanna Nursery as part of the Independence Day celebrations.

The initiative was conceived to communicate the significance of 150 years of Vande Mataram through a large-scale display made entirely with plants.

85,000 PLANTS USED

Around 85,000 plants were used to create the Vande Mataram design.

Nursery farmer Sattibabu led the effort, with the work taking approximately one week to complete.

Young farmers Venkatesh and Vinay explained that the team worked continuously to bring the design to life.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

85,000 plants used for the installation.

Created at Palla Venkanna Nursery in Kadiyam.

The display celebrates 150 years of Vande Mataram.

Nursery farmer Sattibabu led the project.

Young farmers Venkatesh and Vinay were involved in the week-long effort.

The installation was created specifically for Independence Day.

A UNIQUE INDEPENDENCE DAY TRIBUTE

The initiative combines horticulture with national celebrations, using plants to create a visual representation of Vande Mataram.

The organisers said the objective was to convey the significance and spirit of the national song to today's generation through a distinctive display.

BACKGROUND

Kadiyam in East Godavari is known for its nursery industry, with numerous growers involved in cultivating and supplying ornamental and other plants.

The Independence Day installation adds a creative dimension to the region's nursery tradition.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT

The plant installation is expected to remain a distinctive Independence Day attraction and highlight the creativity of Kadiyam's nursery farmers.

ELURU, August 15, 2026: Andhra Pradesh Police Sub-Inspector V. Venkateswara Rao, attached to the Eluru Rural Police Station, marked Independence Day in an unusual way by successfully climbing Mount Elbrus in Russia and unfurling the national flag at the summit.

Venkateswara Rao reached the summit at 8 AM IST on Saturday, according to the report, and displayed a 100-metre-long national flag along with the Tricolour.

WHAT HAPPENED

After reaching the summit, Venkateswara Rao unfurled the Indian national flag and participated in the singing of the National Anthem.

The achievement was part of his Independence Day observance and was presented as a tribute to police personnel who lost their lives while performing their duties.

MOUNT ELBRUS CLIMB

Mount Elbrus, located in Russia, stands at an elevation of 5,642 metres and is described in the report as the highest peak in Europe.

Venkateswara Rao successfully completed the ascent and carried the Indian national flag to the summit.

TRIBUTE TO POLICE PERSONNEL

The police officer dedicated his achievement to police personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty.

The tribute added a commemorative dimension to his Independence Day expedition, connecting the mountaineering achievement with his service in the police force.

KEY POINTS

V. Venkateswara Rao is a Sub-Inspector at Eluru Rural Police Station.

He successfully climbed Mount Elbrus in Russia.

The summit stands at 5,642 metres.

He unfurled the Indian national flag at the summit.

He displayed a 100-metre-long national flag.

The National Anthem was sung after the climb.

He dedicated the achievement to police personnel who died in the line of duty.

His next mountaineering target is reportedly Mount Everest.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT

Having successfully climbed Mount Elbrus, Venkateswara Rao is now setting his sights on Mount Everest, according to the report.

VISAKHAPATNAM, August 15, 2026: Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) lifeguards rescued a tourist who was swept into the sea by waves near the Novotel Hotel beach area in Visakhapatnam.

According to the report, the tourist, who was from Raipur, had entered the sea on Saturday when the waves suddenly pulled him further into the water.

WHAT HAPPENED

The lifeguards noticed the tourist being carried away by the waves and immediately responded.

They entered the water and rescued him, bringing him safely back to shore.

The tourist was reportedly in an unconscious state after being brought out of the water.

RESCUE OPERATION

The GVMC lifeguards provided first aid to the tourist immediately after the rescue.

As he required further medical attention, he was subsequently shifted to Visakhapatnam King George Hospital (KGH) for better treatment.

KEY POINTS

Tourist from Raipur was swept away by waves near the Novotel beach area.

GVMC lifeguards immediately responded to the emergency.

The tourist was rescued and brought back to shore.

First aid was provided after the rescue.

He was shifted to Visakhapatnam KGH for further medical treatment.

PUBLIC SAFETY

The incident highlights the risks faced by visitors entering the sea, particularly when waves and currents become strong.

Beachgoers are advised to follow instructions from lifeguards and local authorities and avoid entering restricted or dangerous areas.

BACKGROUND

Visakhapatnam's coastline attracts large numbers of tourists and local visitors. Lifeguards deployed along the city's beaches play an important role in responding to emergencies involving swimmers and tourists.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT

The rescued tourist is undergoing medical treatment at Visakhapatnam KGH. Further details about his condition were not provided in the source report.

KAKINADA, August 15, 2026: Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan said the state will move forward on the path of development through coordination with the Central Government, while highlighting India's progress towards becoming a strong and capable nation.

Pawan Kalyan made the remarks while participating in the Independence Day celebrations at the Police Parade Ground in Kakinada, where he unfurled the national flag.

WHAT HAPPENED

Addressing the gathering, Pawan Kalyan reflected on the role of different generations in India's freedom and subsequent nation-building.

He said one generation fought for Independence while another generation protected and safeguarded it, emphasising the responsibility of the present generation to strengthen the country.

INDIA'S GLOBAL ROLE

Pawan Kalyan said India is moving towards becoming a strong and capable nation that can provide leadership to the world.

He linked the country's progress with the broader vision of building a developed India.

ANDHRA PRADESH AND VIKSIT BHARAT

The Deputy Chief Minister said Andhra Pradesh is playing its own role in the Viksit Bharat mission.

He said the state would continue its development journey through coordination and cooperation with the Central Government.

KEY POINTS

Pawan Kalyan unfurled the national flag at the Kakinada Police Parade Ground.

He said one generation fought for India's Independence while another protected it.

He described India as moving towards becoming a strong and capable global leader.

Andhra Pradesh will contribute to the Viksit Bharat vision.

The state will pursue development through coordination with the Central Government.

Officials, employees and students participated in the Independence Day programme.

OFFICIAL MESSAGE

Pawan Kalyan emphasised cooperation between the state and Central governments as an important component of Andhra Pradesh's development path.

BACKGROUND

The remarks came during Andhra Pradesh's 80th Independence Day celebrations, with the Deputy Chief Minister using the occasion to connect India's freedom struggle with the country's present development ambitions.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT

The state government's focus will remain on advancing development programmes in coordination with the Central Government and strengthening Andhra Pradesh's contribution to the Viksit Bharat objective.

AMARAVATI, August 15, 2026: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu called on citizens to carry the national flag in their hands and a strong agenda for the nation in their hearts, as he addressed the state's 80th Independence Day celebrations at Rayapudi Parade Ground in Amaravati.

The celebrations were held for the first time at the Rayapudi parade ground in the capital region, where Naidu unfurled the national flag and paid his respects.

WHAT HAPPENED

Naidu said the sacrifices and struggles of India's freedom fighters had made Independence possible and urged people to honour their legacy by building a stronger future for the country.

He extended Independence Day greetings to the people of Andhra Pradesh and Telugu people living across the world.

“MY COUNTRY, MY RESPONSIBILITY”

The Chief Minister said citizens should move forward with the spirit of “My country, my responsibility.”

He urged people to focus not on what the country had done for them, but on what they could contribute to the nation.

According to Naidu, India's freedom brought citizens rights, identity and dignity, and the responsibility now lies with every generation to strengthen the country.

2047 DEVELOPMENT VISION

Naidu called upon people to become partners in the national goal of building a Viksit Bharat by 2047.

He also urged citizens to contribute to the realisation of Swarna Andhra, linking the state's development ambitions with India's broader long-term development vision.

FROM FREEDOM TO PROSPERITY

The Chief Minister said that by the time India reaches 100 years of Independence, both the country and Andhra Pradesh should have moved:

From freedom towards prosperity

From development towards greater achievement and prosperity

He described the coming decades as an opportunity to build on the sacrifices of earlier generations and create a stronger future.

ANDHRA PRADESH'S ROLE

Naidu said Andhra Pradesh should actively contribute to India's long-term progress rather than remain a passive participant.

He called for collective efforts to accelerate development in the state and urged citizens to work together to fulfil the goals associated with Swarna Andhra.

KEY POINTS

Chandrababu Naidu addressed the 80th Independence Day celebrations at Rayapudi, Amaravati.

He called for a strong national agenda and a sense of responsibility among citizens.

Naidu said the sacrifices of freedom fighters should inspire nation-building.

He urged people to contribute to the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.

He called for collective participation in achieving Swarna Andhra.

He said India and Andhra Pradesh should move from freedom to prosperity and from development to greater achievement by the centenary of Independence.

BACKGROUND

The 2026 Independence Day celebrations marked the 80th anniversary of India's Independence. Naidu used the occasion to connect the legacy of the freedom movement with Andhra Pradesh's long-term development goals and the national 2047 vision.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT

The focus will now be on translating the long-term Viksit Bharat and Swarna Andhra vision into concrete development programmes, investment, infrastructure and welfare initiatives across Andhra Pradesh.