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HYDERABAD, SUNDAY NOVEMBER 29, 2020; PAGES 12 `3

Bandi predictsmid-term pollsin state

4

BJP’s high-octanepush in GHMC has a larger purpose

2

Fadnavis targetsMVA govt onissues of ryots,Maratha quota

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EXPRESSINGA1 OF LIFE

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Will oppose bill on conversions:Akhilesh YadavPNS n LUCKNOW

Former Uttar Pradesh chiefminister Akhilesh Yadav onSaturday said his party willoppose the state govern-ment's bill on religious con-versions when placed in theassembly for passage.

Political parties‘sponsoring'farmers' stir: KhattarPNS n CHANDIGARH

Haryana Chief MinisterManohar Khattar on Saturdayalleged that some politicalparties and organisations aresponsoring the farmers' stiragainst the Centre's farm laws.

He also hit out at PunjabChief Minister AmarinderSingh, claiming that despitewanting to talk to him overthe issue, he did not respondeven when telephone calls tohis office were made for threedays. However, AmarinderSingh junked the allegationsthat he did not speak toKhattar over the farmers'issue despite repeatedattempts.

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Current Weather ConditionsUpdated November 28, 2020 5:00 PM

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PNS n HYDERABAD

Telangana Rashtra Samitisupremo and Chief

Minister K ChandrasekharRao has said that BJP's 'Delhi

leaders' are flooding Hyderabadfor GHMC polls with an aim toobstruct him from enteringnational politics.

Addressing TRS' public meet-ing at LB Stadium here onSaturday, KCR said: "Recently, Italked about giving a new direc-

tion to India. I talked about theneed to bring qualitative changein Indian politics for the all-rounddevelopment of the country. Italked about how the so-callednational parties had failed mis-erably to put India on a growthtrajectory over the past sevendecades. My attempts sent shockwaves to them. For this reason,they are sending a flood of Delhileaders to Hyderabad for GHMCpolls. I wonder is this a local elec-tion or a national election? They

are sending Delhi leaders to seethat KCR is obstructed atHyderabad itself by defeatingTRS in GHMC polls."

Urging GHMC voters to give afitting reply to BJP for resortingto these acts, KCR said, "By giv-ing landslide victory to TRS inGHMC polls, send a clear mes-sage to them that the mission tobring qualitative change in Indianpolitics has begun fromHyderabad itself."

So many Delhi leaders tofight a lean man?: KCR

m Time to think for the safety of Hyderabad citym Don’t join divisive forces, city will go back to curfewsm Will bring big change in the life of every Telanganite

PM reviews vaccine workHyd, praises scientistsPNS n HYDERABAD

Prime Minister NarendraModi on Saturday visitedAhmedabad, Hyderabad andPune to review coronavirusvaccine development workthere.

The Prime Minister's Office(PMO) said the day-long visitwas aimed at getting a first-hand perspective of the prepa-rations, challenges androadmap in India's endeavourto vaccinate its citizens.

Modi began by visiting phar-ma major Zydus Cadila's man-ufacturing facility nearAhmedabad. Wearing a PPE kit,he reviewed the vaccine devel-opment process at the compa-ny's research centre, locatedover 20 km from Ahmedabad.

Modi was extensivelybriefed about the vaccine workat the plant by the companyofficials. He was briefed about

the vaccine production pro-cedure. He interacted withscientists and vaccine devel-opers, an official said.

"Visited the Zydus BiotechPark in Ahmedabad to knowmore about the indigenousDNA based vaccine beingdeveloped by Zydus Cadila. Icompliment the team behindthis effort for their work.

Akbaruddin Owaisi, BandiSanjay Kumar bookedPNS n HYDERABAD

AIMIM leader AkbaruddinOwaisi was on Saturday bookedfor his comments on the samad-his of former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao and TDPfounder N T Rama Rao, andstate BJP presidentBandi Sanjay Kumar,for his retort to it.

They werebooked underSection 505 ofthe Indian PenalCode (statementsconducing to pub-lic mischief), policesaid

Akbaruddin Owaisi, younger

brother of AIMIM presidentAsaduddin Owaisi,courted a controversyon November 25,asking whether the'samadhis' of for-mer Prime MinisterP V Narasimha Rao

and TDPfounder N T

Rama Rao onHussain Sagar lakebank would beremoved as he ques-tioned the evictiondrive against "poor

people" residing nearwater bodies.

The ruling TRS and BJPhad termed his remarks as

'inappropriate' anddemanded that he

tender an apology.The AIMIM

leader, addressinga public meetinghere onWednesday in the

run up to theDecember 1 Greater

Hyderabad MunicipalElections, claimed that the

banks of the lake was spreadover 4,700 acres when it wasbuilt by saint Hussain ShahWali, but was now not even 700acres. He said it had become aroad, with shops and samadhisof the two leaders there, as alsothe Lumbini Park.

KCR targets BJP, winksat ‘main rival’ AIMIML VENKAT RAM REDDYn HYDERABAD

Although TRS working pres-ident and IT Minister KTRama Rao has beenrepeatedly issuingstatements duringcampaigning thatAIMIM is TRS'main rival forGHMC polls, andnot BJP; the pinkparty's supremo andChief Minister KChandrasekhar Rao targetedonly BJP during his address atthe public meeting at LBStadium on Saturday.

BJP has been aggressively

campaigning that TRS andAIMIM are 'friendly parties'and saying that voting forTRS amounts to voting forAIMIM and that TRS is plan-

ning to hand overGHMC Mayor post

to AIMIM this time.The "TRS-AIMIMbond' remains aplank for BJP,which is bent upon

putting up a toughfight to defeat the rul-

ing party in GHMC polls.In this backdrop, KTR, for

the past few days has beenlabelling AIMIM as TRS'main rival.

‘Protect Ganga Jamuna tehzeeb’

PNS n HYDERABAD

TRS supremo and ChiefMinister KChandrasekhar Rao saidHyderabad's 'GangaJamuna tehzeeb' can beprotected only by theTelangana Rashtra Samitiand appealed to voters to

keep 'communal forces atbay' in the GHMC pollsin the larger interests ofthe city's growth anddevelopment.

Addressing a mam-moth public meeting at LB Stadium, the ChiefMinister listed out theachievements of his gov-

ernment over the last sixyears, especially on thepower and water front."We have solved thepower problem in thestate. We have been giv-ing power supply 24/7without any power out-ages. This is the first vic-tory that our governmentachieved after formingthe government six yearsback. Telangana achievedtremendous improve-ment in the availability ofpower and consumption.Telangana is the only statein the country to supply24×7 power to all sectors,including agriculture."

KCR said that the TRSgovernment had main-tained law and order inthe city,

n Let us live like abouquet

n TRS govt will providea permanentsolution to floods in Hyderabad

n Will sanction Rs 10,000 crore inBudget every year

n Distribution of Rs 10kflood relief to victimswill resume fromDecember 7

n Polluting industrieswill be moved out ofcity to outskirts

n 24x7 water supply to city soon

Low pressure to intensifyinto depression, rainsnext week in South: IMDPNS n CHENNAI

A low pressure area over southAndaman Sea and adjoiningBay of Bengal was "very like-ly" to concentrate into adepression in the next 48hours and intensify furtherbefore moving towards theTamil Nadu coast, the IndiaMeteorological Department(IMD) said on Saturday.

Under its influence, variousparts in southern states werelikely to receive rainfall start-ing December 1, the IMDsaid in a series of tweets.

"A Low Pressure Area lies

over South Andaman Sea adjSE (south east) Bay of Bengaland Equatorial Indian Ocean.

MANDIR AGAIN

NAVEENA GHANATE n HYDERABAD

It appears that 'temple' is insep-arable from politics in all placeswhere the Bharatiya JanataParty wants to have its way, beit the Ayodhya, Mathura andKashi shrines or the reopeningof places of worship inMaharashtra. The latestinstance of this shrine-basedpolitics is the Bhagyalakshmitemple at Charminar, which,though disputed, has taken

the center-stage in GHMCelections. It has become a pre-ferred spot for BJP leaders.

On Sunday, Home MinisterAmit Shah will start his elec-tion campaign in Hyderabadfrom the Bhagyalakshmi tem-ple. He will head from theBegumpet airport toCharminar at 10:45 am andwill begin his campaign afteroffering prayers.

On 20 November, it was TSBJP chief Bandi Sanjay whowent to the temple ostensibly

to prove that he was not behindthe suspension of disbursal ofRs 10,000 relief amount to the

residual flood-hit families inHyderabad. He had challengedChief Minister KChandrashekar Rao to come tothe temple and take similaroath.

TRS leaders say that Sanjaypicked the temple only to cre-ate disturbances in the sensitiveOld City area. TRS workingpresident on 21 Novembersaid, "They went toBhagyalakshmi temple in theOld City that too on Friday.

Bhagyalakshmi temple takes a center-stage in GHMC elections

Modi wasextensively briefedabout the vaccinework at the plantby the companyofficials. He wasbriefed about thevaccine productionprocedure

Home MinisterAmit Shah willstart his electioncampaign inHyderabad fromthe Bhagyalakshmitemple

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HYDERABAD | SUNDAY | NOVEMBER 29, 2020 hyderabad 02

AMunicipal Corporationelection has neverattracted so much

national attention as the one tobe held in Greater Hyderabadon December 1 when an esti-mated 74 lakh voters are list-ed to elect 150 corporators.The BJP has pulled out all thestops by despatching its brassfrom Home Minister AmitShah to MP Tejaswi Surya forthe campaign.

This extraordinary impor-tance the saffron party isattaching to a civic poll and thehigh-octane campaign of itsleaders were initially intrigu-ing beyond the transparent

objective of boosting thecadre’s morale and the party’sapproach of not taking anyelection lightly. The other sim-plistic view is the aim ofemerging as an alternative tothe TRS. Equally facile is theconclusion that the GHMCelections are a semi-final forthe Assembly polls in TamilNadu, Puducherry, WestBengal and Assam in 2021 andin UP in 2022, besides push-ing its Hindutva agenda. Yet,it is difficult to envisage howthe BJP’s success in GHMCwill influence voters in the Eastand the North where thesocio-political factors are dif-ferent.

The BJP’s game plan alsoseems directed at the South,which accounts for 130 LokSabha seats and turning its toe-hold into a footprint thatextends beyond Karnataka,

where it holds power. AmitShah’s visits to Chennai andHyderabad within a span ofeight days should explain this.This was a smart move consid-ering the likelihood of V K.Sasikala’s release from jail,superstar Rajinikanth formal-ly launching his party formal-ly and developments like M. K.Alagiri’s inclination to jointhe BJP. He has ended possi-

ble uncertainty in spite ofAIADMK’s disastrous showin the 2019 Lok Sabha elec-tions against the virtual cleansweep by the DMK and itsUPA allies which won 38 outof 39 seats.

Among AP, Tamil Nadu,Telangana and Kerala, the BJPhad just two Assembly seats tillrecently. In Tamil Nadu, it is onthe backfoot over Hindi and in

Andhra over its refusal toconfer Special Category Statusand muddled thinking overAmaravati. It has clearly cometo a conclusion that it mustplay the Hindutva card for asuccessful foray into the South,a fact BJP leaders openlyadmit.

In Telangana though, theparty took a big leap by win-ning four Lok Sabha seats aswell as the Dubbaka Assemblyseat in a byelection earlierthis month. Although the vic-tory in Dubbaka was markedby a wafer thin margin, it indi-cated that non-Modi factorslike anti-incumbency can alsodo the magic.

The twist that BJP presidentBandi Sanjay Kumar gave tothe GHMC campaign bythreatening a surgical strikeagainst Pakistanis, Rohingyasand Afghans overstaying in theOld City must be understoodagainst this background. Ithas turned the spotlight on hisparty with the likes of TejaswiSurya fanning the flamesthrough incendiary speeches.His audacious claim that theBJP’s battle was primarilyagainst Asaduddin Owaisi’s

MIM was a clever attempt toput the TRS and MIM in a fix.In spite of some mutuallyrecriminatory statements, theirfight is commonly viewed as afriendly match as the MIM iscontesting only 51 seats. Itwalked straight into the BJP’strap by daring the TRS govern-ment to demolish memorialsof Telugu icons N. T. RamaRao and P. V. Narasimha Raobuilt on the foreshores ofHussainsagar Lake.

The BJP and MIM aretreading a dangerous path asboth sides have their sightsfixed on West Bengal too.Buoyant after winning fiveAssembly seats in Bihar, theMIM sees West Bengal with 27per cent of Muslims as anoth-er hunting ground. This maylend a new dimension toBengal’s electoral landscapeas the Trinamool Congress

and BJP are already locked ina battle with strong communalovertones.

Elections in Bihar where theCongress could win only 19out of 70 seats proved againthat the political space for thegrand old party is receding inlarge swathes of the country.This is true also in Telanganawhere its fortunes are dwin-dling and its leaders have beendefecting to the TRS and late-ly BJP.

KCR‘s iteration of his plansto float a third front targetedprimarily at the BJP would beanother reason for the BJP’sattempt to give back as good asthey get.They are taking thebattle to his home turf as aforewarning to KCR to watchhis back before taking a leapfrom ‘gully politics’ to Delhipolitics, to use Rao’s ownexpression.

S NAGESH KUMARFormer Resident Editor,

The Hindu

This extraordinary importance the saffron

party is attaching to a civic poll and the

high-octane campaign of its leaders were

initially intriguing beyond the transparent

objective of boosting the cadre’s morale

and the party’s approach of not taking any

election lightly. The other simplistic view is

the aim of emerging as an alternative to

the TRS

‘ALL ANDSUNDRY’

BJP’s high-octane push in GHMC has a larger purpose

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All set for inauguration of Khammam IT Hub PNS n KHAMMAM

The Telangana government isall set to take a big leap forwardin expanding IT hubs to tier-II cities in the state.Arrangements are being madefor launching the IT hub inKhammam by IT Minister K TRama Rao on December 2. Itmay be recalled that theTelangana government hasalready launched IT hubs inWarangal and Karimnagar dis-tricts.

The G+5 IT hub being builtin an area of 42,000 square feetat a cost of Rs 25 crore in theheart of Khammam city will bea source of pride for denizens.A huge job fair has been beingorganized at the local SBITCollege on Saturday to recruitemployees required to per-form duties at various levels inthe IT hub. Response for thejab fair was overwhelming ashundreds of young peopleflocked to the walk-in inter-views.

The government is tryinghard to extend the fruits oftechnology to local eligible

youth by conducting a jobfair. As many as 25 IT compa-nies will start their operationsfrom the IT hub. Some of thecompanies are well-knownworldwide, while some arestartups.

KTR agreed to set up an IThub in Khammam as per thesuggestion of Minister AjayKumar. The foundation stonefor the IT hub was laid in 2017.Minister Puvvada Ajay Kumar,the in-charge for campaigningin Kukatpally division in the

GHMC polls, is also oversee-ing the arrangements for KTR'stour in consultation withKhammam district collectorand other higher officials.

Initially, it was proposed tobuild the IT hub in just 25,000sq ft, but it was later increasedto 42,000 sq ft as the responsefrom entrepreneurs was good.The ground floor will be usedas the task office. Many com-panies are willing to start theiroperations in Khammam andtap the local talent pool.

During his visit to the US, AjayKumar met CEOs and IT dig-nitaries of Telugu origin andexplained to them about theopportunities available inKhammam. Initially, as manyas 16 companies evinced inter-est in setting up their offices inthe hub.

Khammam is the secondfastest growing city inTelangana after Hyderabad.The state government hasalready set up the requiredinfrastructure to speed up thedevelopment process in thecity. The state government hasalready chalked out a masterplan for the development ofKhammam city and is now inits final stage. The

Dhansalapuram RailwayOverbridge, a dream ofdenizens for decades, has alsobeen completed and would beinaugurated on December 2 byKTR. R&B Minister VemulaPrashanth Reddy will accom-pany him. The new PoliceCommissionerate office set upat Prakash Nagar will be inau-gurated by Home MinisterMahmood Ali.

PNS n HYDERABAD

TRS working president KTRama Rao took a strong excep-tion to BJP leaders' commentsthat Chief Minister KChandrashekar Rao and hisfamily are looting the state. Hesaid that even BJP is a familyparty except for PrimeMinister Narendra Modi.

Addressing different com-munities at Vibrant HyderabadProgramme on Saturday, KTRsaid, "BJP leaders won't discussdevelopment, but will call usfamily parties. Are there nofamilies in BJP? KarnatakaChief Minister Yediyurappa'sson is MP, his son is state BJPvice president. In MadhyaPradesh there is Vijaya RajeScindia, Yashodhara and nowJyotiraditya. Rajasthan hasVasundhara Raje andDushyant. In Delhi, there isManeka and Varun Gandhi. Ifwe go further Rajnath Singh isthere and his son is in UP BJP.Is BJP an exception?".

"This holier than thou atti-tude is not right, stating thatthere is no family in our party,is wrong. It is different thatModi doesn't have family. Idon't have anything with that.

But other leaders in your partyhave family members. To pos-ture like this is not right. Youdon't have anything to speakstraight to the point, and thesefamily politics etc are devia-tion," KTR added.

It may be mentioned herethat on Friday, BJP presidentJagat Prakash Nadda refer-ring to KCR's plans to bringthe anti-BJP parties togethersaid, "Why don't you say thatyou will make a family with allthe family-held parties. Birdsof a feather flock together.They are all same, maybe lit-tle difference of shades."

Meanwhile, he informedthat community that becauseof Coronavirus pandemic tak-ing hit on economy, the statecannot give industrial incen-tives as promised in Budget.KTR, taking a dig at AtmaNirbar Bharat programme

said, "From 15 days, I am try-ing to find using magnifyinglens who got benefitted fromRs 20 lakh crore atma nirbar,couldn't find one".

He also said that the govern-ment would not be soft on any-one who disturbs the peaceand communal harmony in thecity. KTR said, "We will not letanyone disturb the peace inHyderabad. We will certainlynot be soft in any way. In fact,not only MIM and BJP leaders,even if TRS leaders make somestatements and try to disturbthe peace, cases will be regis-tered against them".

Even BJP is family partyexcept for Modi, says KTR

We will not let anyonedisturb thepeace inHyderabad. Wewill certainlynot be soft inany way, saidTRS workingpresident KTRama Rao

So many Delhi leaders to fight a lean man?: KCRContinued from page 1

KCR lashed out at his oppo-nents for suggesting that hewas trying to set up a Frontat the national level againstBJP yet again. "Did I sayanywhere that I am launch-ing a Front at the nationallevel? When the time comes,it wil l happen," KCRremarked.The TS ChiefMinister vehemently criti-cised the Narendra Modigovernment's divestmentpolicies and privatisation ofmega public sector under-takings (PSUs). "Why youare trying to sell LIC, whichis in profits and has assets ofover Rs 30 lakh crore? Whyare you selling BHEL? Whyare you privatising theIndian Railways, which isamong the largest rail net-works in the world?" heasked.

‘Protect Ganga Jamuna tehzeeb’Continued from page 1

but some inimical forces weretrying to disturb the peace byfomenting communal troubleand whipping up passions."We need a peacefulHyderabad for growth, devel-opment, and for our children'sfuture."

On the flood situation, theChief Minister said that everymegacity in the country hadfaced severe crisis includingMumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai,and Kolkata, and thatHyderabad was no exception."Our leaders have wadedthrough knee-length water tohelp people in a flood situation.No government anywhere inthe country had disbursed Rs10,000 to each household

affected by floods. But we didit. We distributed Rs 650 crorefor over 6 lakh people. Butopposition parties obstructedthis by complaining to theElection Commission. TRSgovernment will be there evenafter GHMC polls. We will giveRs 10K flood relief to leftoverpeople from December 7. Weexpect leftover people ataround 2 to 3 lakh and we areready to spend Rs 300 crore forthis to mitigate the sufferingsof people, though the state gov-ernment's financial conditionis bad due to corona situation,"KCR observed.

KCR promised to sanctionRs 10,000 crore in Budgetevery year to GHMC to helpprovide a permanent solutionto floods, clear nala encroach-

ments and enable constructionof new nalas for effective floodwater management.

On the deployment ofnational BJP leaders for GHMCpoll campaign, he said, "Tobeat this whip-thin man, theirnational leaders are camping inHyderabad. Remember, I amthe son of Telangana soil. Peoplefrom Delhi have descended tocampaign in 'gully' politics.This clearly shows how strongthe TRS is, every leader in Delhiis shaking in their pants. TheUttar Pradesh CM has come tovisit Hyderabad. His state stands25 in growth terms, whileHyderabad figures in the top 5.Now, this weak CM from aweak state will teach us how torule and govern. We have to livetogether in communal harmo-

ny, together as a bouquet offlowers. Save Hyderabad tosave your businesses. If thecommunal harmony is dis-turbed, the real estate prices willcrash, the business climate willbe affected. Hyderabad is areality. I request the intellectu-al class to save the history andpeace of Hyderabad. Are wegoing to lose our peace becauseof some communal forces? Doyou want to surrender yourpeace? Do you want to compro-mise on law and order," heasked.

KCR also said his govern-ment had largely solved thewater problem in the state. "Sixyears back before we came topower, women would stand inlong queues for a bucket ofwater. “

Continued from page 1

The state cabinet earlier thisweek gave nod to the UttarPradesh Prohibition ofUnlawful Conversion ofReligion Ordinance, 2020 tocurb forcible or dishonest reli-gious conversions includingthose for the sake of marriage,which could land violators injail for up to 10 years. UttarPradesh Governor AnandibenPatel gave assent to the ordi-nance on Saturday. Now, it willbe presented in the state leg-islature for passage.Commenting on it, AkhileshYadav told reporters, TheSamajwadi Party is not in

favour of any such law. We willoppose it (when it comes tothe assembly). He also soughtto know its relevance when thestate has schemes to encour-age inter-caste and inter-faithmarriages. The governmentdoes not want to debate onmore important issues due towhich it brought the ordi-nance, he said, alleging that itis creating hatred and chasmin society. The SP presidentalso extended support to thefarmers' protest against theCentre's farm laws.

The betterment of farmerscannot be ensured throughlaws. It will happen only whenthe government comes for-

ward and provides them withthe right price of their pro-duce, he said.

Akhilesh alleged, No othergovernment has committed asmany atrocities on farmers asthis government is doing. Thistreatment is being meted outby those who had promised todouble their income.

He also asked when theCentre is going to bring a lawto double farmers' incomeand provide employment tothe youth.

Questioning investmentclaims of the UP government,Akhilesh said it should also tellhow it has fared in corruptionand fake encounters.

Continued from page 1

Amarinder Singh said he willnot speak to the Haryanachief minister until he seeksan apology for "inflictingbrutality" on farmers march-ing to Delhi.

Claiming a conspiracy ,Khattar told reporters inGurgaon that officials in thePunjab Chief Minister'sOffice are giving directions tothe protesting farmers fromPunjab.

The stir has been build upby farmers from Punjab andsome political parties andorganisations are sponsor-ing it, he said.

Khattar claimed thatHaryana farmers have notparticipated in the stir. Forthis, I want to thank Haryanafarmers, he said.

Continued from page 1

This is being viewed as TRS'strategy to prevent BJP frompolarising Hindu votes againstTRS. The AIMIM too is issu-ing statements lashing out atTRS.

KTR and AIMIM chiefAsaduddin Owaisi are cate-gorically stating that TRSand AIMIM have no 'elec-toral understanding' or'alliance' with each other andthat they will fight againsteach other in the GHMCpolls.

As KCR's public meetingwas held on Saturday in thisbackdrop, observers werekeen to know the TRS supre-mo's stance on AIMIM.Much to their surprise, KCRdid not utter a single word

against AIMIM. He did noteven take the name ofAIMIM.KCR targeted onlyBJP in his entire speech. Hecame down heavily on BJP,saying it had been trying tocreate riots entailing curfewsand communal clashes inHyderabad for the sake ofGHMC polls. KCR had a digat Uttar Pradesh ChiefMinister Yogi Adityanath andformer Maharashtra CMFadanavis for coming toHyderabad to campaign forBJP in GHMC polls.

KCR's silence on AIMIMgave an opportunity for BJPto highlight "TRS-MIMfriendship" yet again andcounter KTR's and AsadOwaisi's claims that TRS andAIMIM are 'rivals' in GHMCpolls.

Continued from page 1

Government of India isactively working with them tosupport them in this journey,"Modi tweeted after the visit.

Zydus Cadila chairmanPankaj Patel recently saidthe company is aiming tocomplete the vaccine trial byMarch 2021, and could pro-duce up to 100 million dosesa year.

Modi landed at HakimpetAir Force station nearHyderabad around 1 pm andproceeded to pharma majorBharat Biotech's vaccinemanufacturing facility atGenome valley, locatedaround 20 km from the airstation, by road.

Continued from page 1

It is very likely to concentrateinto a depression during next48 hours and likely to inten-sify further thereafter," itsaid.

It is likely to move nearlywestwards and reach southTamil Nadu coast aroundDecember 2, it said.

Under its influence, scat-tered to widespread rainfallactivity was "very likely" overTamil Nadu, Puducherry,Karaikal, Kerala, Mahe,Lakshadweep, south coastalAndhra Pradesh and southRayalaseema on Tuesday andWednesday, the weatheroffice said.

IMD also forecast isolatedheavy to very heavy rainfallwith moderate thunderstormand lightning over TamilNadu, Puducherry andKaraikal during this period.

Continued from page 1

Are there no other temples inHyderabad? They want tocreate unnecessary distur-bances between different sec-tions and that is the reasonthey went to the old city".

However, BJP leadersmaintain that there is noth-ing wrong in visitingBhagyalakshmi temple andSanjay even asked, "Is it inPakistan, Afghanistan orBangladesh?" In 2012, theArchaeological Survey ofIndia, responding to an RTIquery, described the templestructure as "an unautho-rised construction". Even his-torians claim that it was builtonly in the 1960s.

According to some histori-ans, one of the guard stones,shaped like a milestone, nearCharminar was allegedly paint-ed with saffron colour in 1965and then an old woman wasreportedly the person in-charge of this shrine. After anRTC bus purportedly hit thestone damaging it, a perma-nent structure was raised at thesite and the stone replaced withan idol of Goddess Lakshmi. Acase was later filed in the thenAP High Court, opposing theencroachment of Charminarby the temple authorities.

Bhagyalakshmitemple...

Will oppose bill onconversions: Akhilesh Yadav

PM reviewsvaccine...

KCR targets BJP, winks...Low pressure... Political parties...

TAKING NNO CCHANCES

In its efforts to increase thefootprint of ArtificialIntelligence (AI) in the

Indian Army and reap itsbenefits, Military College ofElectronics and MechanicalEngineering (MCEME), apremier training instituteunder the aegis of ArmyTraining Command and a designated Centre of Excellence forArtificial Intelligence in Indian Army, organised a webinar on "ArtificialIntelligence Based Prescriptive Maintenance for the Armed Forces" inSecunderabad on Saturday. Discerning readers will know that theArmy’s Training Command based out of Shimla is responsible for theIndian Army’s doctrines and training and research developmentinitiatives in all fields.

Telangana forest officials onSaturday said there was a falsepropaganda in the social

media that a large tiger wasroaming in the Shamshabad areaand clarified that this wascompletely untrue. It may be notedhere that some of them makingfalse propaganda in the socialmedia since Friday night that a large tiger was spotted at IndirammaColony in Shamshabad. The forest officials have visited the area andenquired with local people. Later they came to know that this is fakenews, an official release here said. The forest department officialsappealed to the people not to spread such false propaganda. It wouldcreate panic to the local people. They also urged to take confirmationfrom the Forest Department officials in advance, if there is anyinformation on wild animals, the release added.

Webinar held on prescriptive maintenance for Armed forces

‘Rumours about tiger roaming in Shamshabad completely untrue’

Telangana Governor DrTamilisai Soundararajanon Saturday said that

India is on the threshold ofemerging as the globalleader in the productionand supply of vaccine forCovid-19. She said that theIndia has been supplying60 per cent of the differentvaccines for the world. It isthe largest producer and supplier of the vaccines in the world. Theworld is looking at India for the massive production of Covid-19vaccines and their supply across the globe. The Governor was thechief guest at the 3rd Global Medical Excellence Event, organised bythe World Tamil Organisation, UK, through virtual mode from the RajBhavan, here. She spoke on the topic of "Road to Recovery:Vaccinations and Mental Wellbeing" at the webinar, a Raj BhavanCommunique here said. Dr Tamilisai Soundararajan highlighted theneed for having a robust vaccination plan to ensure vaccination ofthe all the people with special emphasis on immunising thevulnerable sections on a priority basis.

‘India will be global leader in production and supply of vax’

CITY LIGHTS

Rachakonda top cop suspends 2constables for corrupt practices

Rachakonda PoliceCommissioner MaheshM Bhagwat on

Saturday placed two policeconstables undersuspension on charges ofindulging in corruptpractices. Based on a reportfrom K Narayana Reddy,DCP (Bhongir), the twoconstables, R. ChandraShekar and K. Lingaswamyof Chotuppal police station,were suspended fordemanding money from a citizen and indulging in corruption.Following a complaint, the DCP conducted an enquiry into theallegations and submitted a report to the Commissioner. MaheshBhagwat urged citizens to lodge complaints via WhatsApp number94906 17111 if they came across police personnel resorting tocorrupt practices. PNS n HYDERABAD

The Hyderabad MetropolitanDevelopment Authority (HMDA)has spent only 33 per cent of thefunds allocated for maintenance ofHussain Sagar Lake in four years.

It is to note, that cleaning andmaintenance of the lake are twodifferent tasks allocated to agencies.In an RTI reply to Society for Safetyof Public and Good Governance,HDMA said they have spent aro-und Rs 14.79 crore for maintenanceof Hussain Sagar between 2014 and2018, while the government hadsanctioned Rs 46 crore budget.

The maintenance includes colle-cting of floating pollutants, gar-bage, plastic waste from the lake,functioning of the trash collectingmachines, greenery and repairs.The major pollutant of HussainSagar is domestic sewage enteringthe lake that boosts the growth ofalgae. The damage happens whenthe algae during decomposition uselot of oxygen in the water thus ma-king it deficient for other aquaticfauna and kills the life inside lake.

This lake cleaning part was tak-en care by Japan International Co-operation Agency under lake impr-ovement project which ended in2016. But, direct dumping of litter,garbage, plastic waste, and otherdebris continues. In July 2018, thestate government entrusted theentire area to HMDA to ensuredevelopment and effective mainte-nance of Hussain Sagar and its sur-roundings. An officer associatedwith the projects, on condition of

anonymity said, "As part of theJICA project. Two Sewerage treat-ments of capacity 30 MLD and 20MLD were constructed. A ringsewer has also been set up aroundthe lake. In addition, we haveinstalled aeration equipment toboost the oxygen levels of the lake.Seven jet fountains were installedto improve the dissolved oxygencontent. So far 6.4 lakh cubicmeters of sediment has beenremoved from the three mouths of

the nalas". There was no answer towhy the rest of the funds were notused. Meanwhile, the Hyderabadbased Independent body Society ofPublic and Good Governance said,"There are a lot many things whichare not moving because of budgetbut having budget allocated to cer-tain things. Why has the depart-ment not spent?" Hussain Sagar,including NTR Marg, Tank Bund,Necklace Road, surrounding parksare now under the control ofHMDA. The flood control and dis-charge of water during the mon-soon are under the control ofGHMC's irrigation wing.

During the recent floods, citize-ns flagged the issue of encroach-ment at Hussain Sagar. In January,Save Our Urban Lake activist andthe Socialist Party of India leaderLubna Sarwath wrote to the ChiefJustice of HC urging him to takeaction against illegal constructionbeing taken up inside FTL. The'encroa-ched' land is located closeto Sanjeevaiah Park. The encroach-ment has also become an electionissue this time around.

RTI REPLY

HYDERABAD | SUNDAY |NOVEMBER 29, 2020 hyderabad 03

India's first Chousinghawilderness park opensPNS n HYDERABAD

India's first wilderness parkwith focus on biodiversityconservation, rewilding and astated objective to be focusedon total inclusivity was openednear Hyderabad on Friday.

P Raghuveer, Vice Chair-man and Managing Director,Telangana State ForestDevelopment Corporation(TSFDC), opened the park tonature lovers and adventure-seeking walkers.

The TSFDC has developed'Konda Gorre' wilderness park

at Lalgadi Malakpet, near theOuter Ring Road on theKarimnagar highway, with anaccent on sustainability andbiodiversity conservation. Ithas already planted over10,000 saplings, mostly of for-est species. The forest area hereis about 2,635 acres, in whicha small portion has developedas an urban forest park.

The TSFDC said that thetotal area will be protectedwith fencing. The urban parkis named after Konda Gorre orChousingha, a four-hornedantelope.

Disproportionate assets case: CBI books UoH chief medical officer PNS n HYDERABAD

The sleuths of Central Bureauof Investigation (CBI) bookeda disproportionate assets caseagainst chief medical officerof University of Hyderabadfor amassing huge wealth.

CBI had named chief med-ical officer Dr RavindraKumar and his wife Sujathawho was working as a teacherin UoH campus school.

The accused amassed wea-lth during his tenure. Beforeattaining the position, hisassets were valued at Rs 3.22crores. However, by the end,his wealth is valued at Rs 9crores. Investigation revealedthat the accused had broughtimmovable and movableassets including several flatsin and around FinancialDistrict, five cars, house holdarticles worth Rs 25 lakh,gold jewellery and others.

PNS n HYDERABAD

Telangana registered 753 newCoronavirus cases, taking itstotal tally to 2.68 lakh, even as952 more patients recoveredfrom the virus on Saturday.Active cases now total 10,637in the state.

Hyderabad accounted forthe highest 133 new cases, fol-lowed by Medhcal Malkajgiri(78), Rangareddy (71),Karimnagar (47), Nalgondaand Khammam (38 each) andBhadradri Kothagudem (36).

New cases were also report-ed from Warangal Urban (33),Suryapet and Jagityal (22 each),Mancherial and Sangareddy(18 each), Peddapalli (15),

Yadadri Bhongir (13) andWarangal Rural (12). Onlythree patients succumbed tothe virus in the past 24 hoursin Telangana, taking its Coviddeath toll to 1,451. Telanganahas 0.54 per cent fatality rate,as against the national average

of 1.5 per cent. Meanwhile, thestate continued to record sig-nificant number of recoverieson a daily basis, which are out-numbering infections.

As many as 952 morepatients recovered, taking thetotal such cases to 2.56 lakh.

Telangana logs 753 more Covid cases

PNS n HYDERABAD

Several parents fromHyderabad took to roads againagainst the fee hike and noaction against the privateschools by the educationalauthorities. The protest, whichtook place in front of OakridgeInternational School, saw par-ents standing with placardsdemanding fee reduction.

Talking about the issue,Tukaraam Nenavath, a parentwho protested shares, "Mydaughter Nakshatra is studyinggrade VII, in OakridgeInternational School, Newton

campus. Due to theCoronavirus pandemic it Icouldn't pay the fees timely.However, due to that theschool management removedmy daughter from the onlineclass. She didn't just miss herclass, but was embarrassedtoo. Although, I requested theschool management severaltimes, the teachers didn'tinclude her in the class."

Sharing similar experience,another parent adds, "Werequest Oakridge InternationalSchool to rationalise their feestructure as there is a huge costsaving on many expenses

which are incurred only whenstudents are present in personat the school premises.

The GO 46 was released inApril. It was meant for a nor-mal school year and at thatpoint of time, nobody couldpredict the whole year will bevirtual schooling. Now that theentire academic year is virtu-al and it will be virtual, theschool cannot apply a feestructure meant for physicalschooling."

Despite several protests, theparents have received no helpfrom the state educationalauthorities.

Parents of schoolchildren taketo roads again against fee hike

To instill confidence among the public and to prevent communal incidents,CRPF troops deployed near Charminaron the eve of GHMC Elections.

It's raining cash for students in poll rallies

NAMRATA SRIVASTAVA n HYDERABAD

There is no doubt that politi-cal parties splurge during thecampaigning ahead of everyelection. The Greater Hydera-bad Municipal Corporation(GHMC) campaign going onin Hyderabad, however, is wit-nessing the parties spendingcrores to pay students, to swelltheir rally audience.

Students are being paidbetween Rs 500 to 1,000 toattend the rallies for three tofour hours a day. Incidentally,several students belonging tofinancially backward families,who are from various parts ofthe state, are participatingwholeheartedly in the elec-tions.

A second-year postgraduatestudent from OsmaniaUniversity, who is actuallyfrom Warangal shares, "Iattended TRS rallies for threedays and got paid Rs 800 perday. They also gave Biryanipackets to us. Two of myfriends attended BJP ralliesand we're paid Rs 700 per day."

He further adds, "I ampreparing for Civils, so, I have

no intention of joining the pol-itics. However my family isfrom a lower-middle classbackground and my parentsare finding it difficult to evenpay my fees. I went to the ral-lies just so that I can pay myrent for this month and don'thave to pay for my food forthose three days. Most studentsare doing it."

As per information fromsources, each party has a mid-dle man in every ward, who

approaches students and getsthem to the rallies. These mid-dle men are paid in bulk andthey keep their commission perstudents.

Giving an insight in theprocess, M Venu, GeneralSecretary, Telangana JointAction Committee, for all stu-dents' organisation says, "Themiddle men know the areawell. TRS and BJP are payingthe highest, about Rs 700 to Rs1000 per day. Then AIMIM

and INC, which are paying Rs500 to 600 to each student perday. The bigger the rally orpolitician, the better you willget paid. In bigger rallies, suchas that of IT Minister KTRama Rao or Union MinisterKishan Reddy, I think about200 to 300 students took part.The rallies also include kidswho are less than 18 years oldas well. Just imagine the kindof money parties are spendingto get audience."

Not just the students, appar-ently parties are also arrangingfor their workers from otherdistricts to travel to the city.

Balmoori Venkat, StatePresident of National Students'Union of India, says,"Pandemic shaked the financesof several families. In such ascenario, students from poorbackground are more thanhappy to be able to make somemoney, at the same time getfree food."

n Parties lure youngsters with Rs 500-Rs 1,000 to swell crowd in election campaigns

Customs officials seizegold worth Rs 24 lakhs PNS n HYDERABAD

The customs officials nabbed an air passen-ger smuggling gold worth Rs 24 lakhs at RGIAon Saturday. The officials intercepted the pas-senger and found gold concealed in pasteform in three capsules in his rectum. The offi-cials recovered 505.53 grams gold valued atRs 24.49 lakhs. As the passenger couldn't pro-vide documents, the officials seized gold.

2 held for creating fake Dharani appPNS n HYDERABAD

Two fraudsters who created afake mobile application in thename of Dharani mobile appwere arrested by Cyber CrimePolice on Saturday. With ahope to get Revenue throughadvertisement and downloads

they created fake application.The accused were identified

as Premchand Muley, 31, andMahesh Dandote, 26, hailingfrom Karnataka. The mattercame to light when TelanganaState Technology Services Ltd.,Hyderabad approachedHyderabad cyber crime police

regarding some fake mobileapps in the name of Dharanimobile app and made a formalcompalint with police.

He further added that theymade the app for public todownload and use the mobileapplication posing as officialmobile app of Dharani website.

Only 33% of funds spent on Hussain Sagar in 4 yrs

hyderabad 04HYDERABAD | SUNDAY | NOVEMBER 29, 2020

PNS n HYDERABAD

Bharatiya Janata PartyTelangana state presidentBandi Sanjay on Saturday pre-dicted that the TRS govern-ment, led by K ChandrasekharRao, would collapse post theGreater Hyderabad MunicipalCorporation elections. He pre-dicted that TRS MLAs wouldrevolt against the CM. Therewill be mid-term elections andBJP would win, he claimed. Healso stated that KCR wouldsurely go to jail.

Sanjay, who is also a LokSabha member fromKarimnagar, made these com-ments at an election rally atRamnagar. "The corrupt gov-ernment will collapse after theGHMC elections. Everyoneknows that KCR is involved ina fake passport scam. TheCentre will settle all accounts,"he said.

He cautioned the police offi-cials against backing an "unsta-ble" government and said theywere reading out the script ofthe Chief Minister over possi-ble communal violence in thecity. Challenging the govern-ment to file more cases, he reit-erated his comments ofdestroying Darruslam (MIMheadquarters), if the partydares to touch the memorialsof former Prime Minister PVNarasimha Rao and formerChief Minister NT Rama Rao.

He said that BJP will con-duct a surgical strike andwould identify Rohingyas, andhandover the anti-social ele-ments to police. "We will

teach a lesson to those who aresupporting Pakistan and con-duct Surgical Strikes againstthose who take out rallies withblack flags against India," hesaid. Bandi also offered to pro-vide Covid-19 vaccine for freeif BJP comes in to power inGHMC elections.

Bandi Sanjay alleged that theTRS party is giving Rs 5 crore

to each division and calledupon the people to take themoney given by TRS and urgedthe voters to cast their vote forBJP. He alleged that KCR failedto give 1 lakh jobs but erectedone lakh hoardings and flexeson metro pillars, flyovers, andtoilets. "KCR and KTR didn'tleave even burial grounds inerecting flexes," he said.

Finding fault with TRSleaders for speaking about selfrespect, Bandi Sanjay askedthem to reveal as to where theirself respect was when hundredsof farmers, students and teach-ers committed suicides. "Whythe TRS leaders failed to pro-tect them? Some police, includ-ing DGP, are supporting KCRwhen he said that some arehatching conspiracy to incitecommunal violence," healleged demanding the policeto reveal as to why they failedto arrest them when they haveclear information. He warnedpolice by stating that TRS willnot be in power permanentlyand said that the TRS govern-ment will be collapsed afterGHMC elections.

Bandi predicts mid-term polls in state

PNS n HYDERABAD

At a rally ahead of next week'sHyderabad municipal election,Uttar Pradesh Chief MinisterYogi Adityanath - one of anarmy of A-listers unleashed bythe BJP in its bid to win votersin the southern state - blamedthe 'nefarious alliance' of theruling TRS and AsaduddinOwaisi's AIMIM for the lack ofdevelopment and declared theBJP could rename the city toBhagyanagar if it won.

"Some people were askingme if Hyderabad can berenamed as Bhagyanagar. I said- why not? I told them werenamed Faizabad as Ayodhyaand Allahabad as Prayagraj afterBJP came into power. Whycan't Hyderabad be renamed asBhagyanagar?" he asked, assupporters cheered.

Making his pitch in a civicpoll - where the focus isnormally on infrastructure - theUP Chief Minister also drewfrom the BJP's tried-and-testedelection playbook, a page ofwhich was earlier read out byKarnataka MP Tejasvi Suryawhen he called Owaisi an"avatar of Mohammad AliJinnah". "In Bihar a newly-elected MLA of AIMIM declined

to say "Hindustan" during oath-taking. They will live inHindustan but when it comes totaking oath in the name ofHindustan, they hesitate," hesaid. "I came here to launch afight along with you againstthem. I am happy after seeingthe enthusiasm of Hyderabadis.The peoples' cooperation isneeded to change Hyderabad asBhagyanagar," he said.

The UP CM alleged that thefather-son duo are looting thepublic exchequer andthreatening the businessmen.However, the BJP is strivinghard for the development ofHyderabad. He called upon thepeople to cast their vote to BJPto ensure corruption-freeadministration.

While participating in roadshow in Jeedimetla andKukatpally areas on Saturdayevening along with TelanganaBJP Chief Bandi Sanjay Kumar,MP Dharmapuri Arvind andleaders Muralidhar Rao, PeddiReddy, Jithender Reddy andothers, Yogi Adithyanath saidthat the BJP constructed 30lakh houses in Uttar Pradeshand questioned the TRSgovernment to reveal as to howmany houses it constructed inthe last 6 years.

BJP to rename Hyd ‘Bhagyanagar': Yogi

The corrupt government will collapseafter the GHMC elections. Everyoneknows that KCR is involved in a fakepassport scam. The Centre will settleall accounts, said Telangana BJPchief Bandi Sanjay

PNS n HYDERABAD

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister YogiAdityanath who is campaigning inGHMC elections was welcomed byanother hash tag, this time mixedwith Hyderabadi flavour. Netizensused the #BaiganKaYogi trend onSaturday apart from using abusivewords. Even though the word

'baigan' is vegetable brinjal, it ispopular term used in Hyderabadas slang to express emotions. It may be mentioned here that UPCM said, "When BJP came topower in UP, Faizabad wasrenamed as Ayodhya andAllahabad as Prayagraj. Why can'tHyderabad be rechristened to"Bhagyanagar"?" A Syed Umar

said when you are unable tomanage your own state, whyinterfere in matters of otherstates. A SSagar said, "Correct meif I am wrong.. It would costanywhere between 200-500crores to change a city name. Isour country so much developed,poverty is so low that such hugemoney is spent for this.. What's

the economic benefit behind this?#BaiganKaYogi". Another NetizenKahif Qureshi said, "five millionpeople lost jobs afterdemonetisation and this man issaying Hyderabad people can buyland in Kashmir! Where were uduring Hyderabad floods whenpeople needed help the most?Don't insult Hyderabadi

intelligence by this worthlessspeeches! #BaiganKaYogi"It may be mentioned here thatearlier netizens trended go backTejasvi Surya using abusive slur.As a retort BJP started trending#BaghyanagarWelcomesYogi and#MCKCR meaning Maha ChorKCR. As per BJP followers inSocial media #MCKCR maha chor

KCR trend is done for these falsepromises making Telangana ppl asreal scapegoats for lootingExchequer? Sagar Goud follower of BJPasked, "From last six years whostopped KCR from announcing10000 crores for Nala repairsfrom state budget to avoidflooding #MCKCR".

#BaiganKaYogi trends, BJP retorts with #MCKCR

LB Stadium turned pink on Saturday as thousands of TRSsupporters thronged Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao’s

public meeting. Vehicles were seen parked from near thestadium till upper Tank Bund. The highlight was a Bonaluprocession, and Lambada and Gusadi dances, as also thetraditional ‘Kolatam’ dance. The main stretches connecting

the stadium from Tank Bund, Liberty crossroads, Secretariat,Ravindra Bharathi and Nampally, among other areas, sported

party flags and posters welcoming supporters.

K VENKATESHWARLU

n HYDERABAD

As a popular Telugu sayinggoes 'Illu Katti Choodu PelliChesi Choodu', loosely translat-ed as 'construct house or per-form marriage and you willknow challenges', constructinga new house has become a cum-bersome task for people inurban areas, especially withinthe GHMC limits. Some corpo-rators are allegedly harassingpeople constructing new hous-es and demanding money.

Earlier, relatives used to offerwood, sand and monetary helpto the persons constructinghouses. Similarly, they used tooffer rice, vegetables and extend

support whenever a personperforms marriage of hisdaughter. In contrast, some ofthe corporators, along withtheir henchmen, visit the con-struction site and demandmoney from people. If theyrefuse to give in to theirdemands, they threaten them ofdenying necessary permissionsfrom municipal authorities.Instead of helping people whoelected them, some of the cor-porators are allegedly harassingthem for the sake of money.

Venkat Reddy, a resident ofSaidabad Colony, said that thecontestants convince them inevery possible way to win theirtrust. "They request, lure andcajole people to get elected, but

after winning election, theystart collecting money frompeople constructing new hous-es. They resort to land grabbing,settling land disputes andindulge in real estate business.They forget the fact that they are

public representatives and startharassing people for money," hesaid.

"They collect money fromcommon man to real estatebuilders who construct newhouses. If they are not givenmoney, the corporators createhurdles for people with thehelp of municipal authorities,"he added. A builder on the con-dition of anonymity said thatthe corporators demand a per-centage from them. He said thatthe builders allocate money forcorporators while planning theproject itself. We add thisamount when they sell the flatsafter completing the project, headded. Constructing houses inGHMC limits has become a dif-

ficult task for common peoplebecause of the hurdles createdby the corporators. They don'tunderstand this practice as theyconstruct houses once in theirlifetime. It is difficult for themto raise money demanded bythe corporators. The corpora-tors appoint their henchmen tolook after these activities. Thesemen, along with GHMCauthorities, go to the construc-tion site and collect the money.They will stop the constructionciting rules and regulations ifthey are not given money. Toavoid hurdles people givemoney to them, said Saleemfrom Tolichowki.

A corporator, who didn't geta ticket in these elections, on the

condition of anonymity, saidthat the corporators would col-lect money from the people tomeet expenses during elections.Ram (name changed) fromSerilingampally constituencysaid that he gave Rs 5 lakh to hiscorporator. He lamented that hevoted for the same corporatorwho demanded money fromhim in the last elections.

Srikanth Rao (namechanged) from Serilingampallyconstituency said that the cor-porators demand not less thanRs 50,000 from individuals forconstructing houses and not lessthan Rs5 lakh from builders.Raghu from Qutbullapur wantthe corporators to avoid thesecorrupt practices.

PNS n HYDERABAD

Telangana Pradesh CongressCommittee (TPCC) presidentand MP N Uttam KumarReddy on Saturday said thatthe people of GreaterHyderabad would never for-give TRS, BJP and MIM fornot discussing their real prob-lems during the election cam-paign while keeping their focusonly on polarisation on com-munal lines.

Addressing various roadshows at Banjara Hills,Sherlingampally and otherdivisions on Saturday, Uttamstrongly condemned ChiefMinister K ChandrashekharRao, Minister KT Rama Rao,Telangana BJP President BandiSanjay, MIM presidentAsaduddin Owaisi and otherleaders of TRS, BJP and MIMfor running the GHMC elec-tion campaign on non-issues.

"These parties did not dis-cuss a single problem concern-

ing the common people. Inaddition to the civic problemspeople have been facing intheir localities, lakhs of peoplewere badly hit due to lockdownin view of Covid-19. Similarly,a majority of residents were hitdue to the recent floods andheavy rains. People expectedspecific assurances and a clearplan from the political partiesduring the GHMC elections on

possible solutions to theirproblems. However, insteadof speaking about people'sgrievances, three major par-ties- TRS, BJP and MIM camewith irrelevant narratives todilute the campaign," healleged. Uttam said that theCongress was the only partywhich raised people's issuesand also proposed possiblesolutions in its manifesto.

‘TRS-BJP-MIM runningcampaign on non-issues’

People want clean and non-corrupt corporators PNS n HYDERABAD

Campaigning for the GHMCelections will end by 6 pm onNovember 29 in the entireGHMC where the electionsare notified, Secretary,Telangana State ElectionCommission (TSEC), MAshok Kumar said onSaturday. After 6 pm onSunday, no person shouldconvene, hold, attend, join oraddress any public meeting orprocession in connectionwith an election. They shouldnot display an election mat-ter by means of cinematogra-phy, television or other sim-ilar apparatus.

Campaign to endby 6 pm today

PNS n HYDERABAD

TPCC working president andMalkajgiri MP A RevanthReddy on Saturday said thatnot inviting him to PrimeMinister Narendra Modi’sHyderabad tour on Saturdaywas a violation of protocoland that he would lodge acomplaint with the Lok SabhaSpeaker in the nextParliament ses-sion.

“Notinviting alocal MP isnothing buta violation ofprotocol,” he said andadded that Prime Minister’svisit was not personal andBJP’s programme.

Campaigning for Congresscandidate for Kukatpally divi-sion Gandham Yesu Raju atKPHB Colony, RevanthReddy said that had the TRSand the BJP served the poorreally, there would not havebeen any need to seek votesin gullies.

Revanth ridiculed KCR forparticipating in a huge pub-lic meeting on Saturday bysaying that KCR confinedhimself to farmhouse whenpeople were facing problemsdue to Covid-19 and floods.KCR came out only to seekvotes from people, he added.

He called upon people toaccept money from both theTRS and BJP candidates, butcast vote for Congress candi-dates.

Addressing a meeting inBalaji Nagar division whilecampaigning for BeeramIndira Devi, the MalkajgiriMP requested the people toelect at least 30 Congress can-didates as corporators so thathe could fight for people’sproblems.

Revanth hurtat not beinginvited to PM’s tourPNS n HYDERABAD

AICC secretary and formerMP Madhu Yashki Goud onSaturday blamed the Centreand State government for fail-ing to contain the spread ofCoronavirus. He called uponthe people to question CM KChandrashekhar Rao for notcoming out of PragathiBhavan when floods hit thecity. He alleged that the entireofficialdom has been trans-formed as TRS party cam-paigners and Director Generalof Police and CityCommissioner of Police havebecome agents of TRS party.

He questioned DGP andCP to reveal as to why theydidn't arrest anyone if theyhave information on violence.He urged the Governor tosupervise the law and order sit-uation following the DivisionAct. Taking a dig at TRS work-ing president and MunicipalAdministration Minister KTRama Rao's 'Athmeeya

Sammelans' (CordialMeetings), Madhu Yashki saiddescribed the sammelans as'Athma Vanchana Sammelans.'

Addressing the media,Madhu Yashki Goud allegedthat the MIM has become asycophant to BJP and provok-ing Muslims to garner votes."Both BJP and MIM are pro-voking Muslims to gain polit-ical mileage in GHMC elec-tions. The Congress will protectall sections of the people. Someleaders are quitting the party toshield their corruption andprotecting themselves fromcriminal cases," he alleged.

BJP, MIM provokingMuslims, alleges Cong

PNS n HYDERABAD

People of Hyderabad have todecide whether they want aMayor of the development-oriented BJP or divisive pol-itics-oriented AIMIM's inthe city civic polls to be heldon December 1, BJPspokesperson Sambit Patrasaid on Saturday. "The peopleof Hyderabad have to choosewhose Mayor it is going to be.It will be BJP's Mayor orMayor of MIM? What kind ofMayor is needed? The devel-opment oriented BJP's Mayoror communal politics, divi-sive politcs-oriented Mayor ofMIM which does politics ofexclusion," he said.

Sambit takes adig at AIMIM

PNS n HYDERABAD

BJP national general secre-tary and GHMC electionsnational in-charge BhupenderYadav on Saturday made itclear that the BJP's fight againstTRS government corruptionwill continue. He alleged thatthe TRS government hasindulged in huge corruption.Stating that GHMC electionsis between democracy andmonarchy, Bhupender Yadavstated that nobody speaks lieslike KT Rama Rao. He said thatTelangana does not belong toKCR and KTR’s familySpeaking to the media afterattending breakfast meeting atparty leader Garikapati MohanRao, Bhupender Yadav foundfault with KTR for statingHyderabad as a 'gulli'.Bhupender Yadav describedHyderabad city as one of thehistorical cities of India. Hesaid that the Hyderabad city isin the hearts of the people ofIndian people.

Will win big in GHMCelections: BJP

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INDIA CORNER

The Eastern Railway willresume non-suburbanpassenger train services

from December 2 with 54 trains,an official said on Saturday.Non-suburban passenger trainservices were stopped in the lastweek of March due to theCOVID-19 pandemic. Of these,30 trains will be run in Howrahdivision, 22 trains in Asansol division and two trains in Maldadivision, an ER spokesman said here.Among the 30 trains in Howrahdivision, eight trains will be run in Bardhaman-Rampurhat sectionsand an equal number in Rampurhat-Gumani section, while two trainswill be run in Rampurhat-Dumka-Jasidih section, he said.Apart fromthese, eight trains in Katwa-Azimgang and four passenger trains inKatwa-Azimganj sections will also be run in Howrah division, thespokesman said.

Eastern Railway to resume non-suburban passenger train services

The administration in Leh hasimposed night curfew andbanned the assembly of

more than four people amid afresh COVID-19 spike, an officialsaid on Saturday. Ladakhrecorded one more COVID-related death and 44 new cases,taking the death toll to 114 andoverall caseload to 8,272,officials said. The self-imposedlockdown by the civil society group in Leh to contain the spread ofcoronavirus entered its sixth day on Saturday as the district recordeda minimum temperature of minus 12.9 degrees Celsius. The newCOVID-related death was reported from Leh, taking the number offatalities in the district to 73. The other 41 deaths were reported fromKargil district, the officials said. Of the 44 fresh cases, 42 werereported from Leh and two from Kargil, while 100 patients – 89 inLeh and 11 in Kargil were discharged in the last 24 hours.

Night curfew, prohibitory orders in Leh amid Covid spike

Amazon has pulled theplug on conspiracy thrillerseries "Utopia" after just

one season. An adaptation ofthe 2013 British drama of thesame name, the show hailedfrom "Gone Girl" author andscreenwriter Gillian Flynn,reported Variety.The showfeatured John Cusack, SashaLane and Rainn Wilson. Itpremiered on Amazon Prime Video on September 25 to lukewarmreviews."Utopia" was about a group of young adults who meet onlinethat are mercilessly hunted by a shadowy deep state organisationafter they come into possession of a near-mythical cult undergroundgraphic novel. Within the comic's pages, they discover theconspiracy theories that may actually be real and are forced into thedangerous, unique and ironic position of saving the world.The seriesalso featured Ashleigh LaThrop, Dan Byrd, Jessica Rothe, DesminBorges, Javon “Wanna” Walton and Christopher Denham.

Amazon cancels ‘Utopia' after one season

The Uttar Pradesh Special TaskForce has arrested 12 persons fortaking money from aspiring Delhi

Police constables, promising theirselection in the entrance examinationto be held shortly by the central area'sStaff Selection Commission."Twelvepersons including the racket kingpinMahendra Singh have been arrested by the STF from Gorakhpur onFriday," an official statement said here on Saturday.The STF sleuthsalso seized 11 mobile phones, 14 Aadhar cards, six fake id-cards ofexam recovered from them.During interrogation, Mahendra Singh toldSTF that he used to run the racket of promising candidates' selectionby having "question solvers" sit in the test in their place, it said.Thegang used to charge hefty amount from candidates for their services.A detailed probe in on in the matter.

PNS n CHANDIGARH/NEW DELHI,

Thousands of farmers havereached the national capital ontheir tractor-trolleys and othervehicles, responding to the“Delhi Chalo” call against theagri-marketing laws enacted atthe Centre in September.

On Saturday morning, itwasn't clear if they will agree tomove to the Burari ground onthe outskirts of the city, wherepolice said they can continuewith their protest. Many pro-testers were demanding a bet-ter venue in the centre ofDelhi. Originally, the protestwas meant to be on November26 and 27.

A look at the protest so far:Day 1:On Thursday, thousands of

farmers crossed from Punjab toHaryana. At border points,the Haryana Police tried to stopthem, using water cannonsand teargas. But later theywere allowed through. Therewere skirmishes with police atother points as well on thehighway to Delhi as it passedthrough BJP-run Haryana. Alarge group of protesterscamped for the night nearPanipat.

Day 2:Protesters assembled at

Delhi's border at Tigri andSinghu. Police used teargasand water cannons to stopthem from breaking throughbarricades, which includedsand-laden trucks. In theevening, they offered to letthem into the city and contin-ue their protest at Burariground. But many appearedreluctant.

Day 3:

The standoff continued onSaturday morning at Delhi'sborder. More farmers weremaking their way from Punjaband Haryana.

What farmers fear:Farmer unions in Punjab

and Haryana say the recentlaws enacted at the Centre willdismantle the minimum sup-port price (MSP) system. Overtime big corporate houses willdictate terms and farmers willend up getting less for their

crops, they argue.Farmers fear that with the

virtual disbanding of the mandisystem, they will not get anassured price for their cropsand the “arthiyas” -- commis-sion agents who also pitch inwith loans for them -- will beout of business.

Their demands:The key demand is the with-

drawal of the three laws whichderegulate the sale of theircrops. The farmer unions could

also settle for a legal assurancethat the MSP system will con-tinue, ideally through anamendment to the laws.

They are also pressing for thewithdrawal of the proposedElectricity (Amendment) Bill2020, fearing it will lead to anend to subsidised electricity.Farmers say rules against stub-ble burning should also notapply to them.

Key players:The `Delhi Chalo” call was

given by the All India KisanSangharsh CoordinationCommittee. Several otherorganisations includingRashtriya Kisan Mahasanghand factions of the BharatiyaKisan Union (BKU) came outin support.

The march is being heldunder the banner of SamyuktaKisan Morcha. The RashtriyaKisan Mahasanghathan, JaiKisan Andolan, All India KisanMazdoor Sabha, KrantikariKisan Union, Bharatiya KisanUnion (Dakaunda), BKU(Rajewal), BKU (Ekta-Urgahan,) BKU (Chaduni) areamong the participants.

Most protesters are fromPunjab, but there is a substanialnumber from Haryana as well.

PNS n MUMBAI

BJP leader Devendra FadnavisonSaturday accused theUddhav Thackeray-ledMaharashtra government ofignoring the plight farmers inthe state and failing on theMaratha reservation issue.

The former chief ministersaid the government has failedto provide financial aid tofarmers. The MVA govern-ment completes a year in officeon Saturday. "The Thackeraygovernment has failed in pro-viding financial assistance tofarmers. The government hascompletely ignored theirplight. Cotton, soybean cropsgot destroyed due to pestattack, but no help was provid-ed to farmers," Fadnavis said ina press conference.

"This government has mis-erably failed in Maratha reser-vation as well," he alleged.

"Some of the state ministersare deliberately making contra-dictory statements on theMaratha reservation issue.They are doing so to cover upthe government's failure. Thisgovernment is deliberatelydragging its feet in theSupreme Court," he said.

The BJP leader also said thathe had not seen any chief min-ister in Maharashtra, other than

Uddhav Thackeray, who threat-ened the opposition "so much",and said his recent interview to'Saamana' (Shiv Sena mouth-piece) did not befit the consti-tutional post he held.

Fadnavis further said, "TheSupreme Court and the BombayHigh Court's recent decisionsare enough to underscore theconstitutional breakdown in the

state." He was apparently refer-ring to the Supreme Court's

decision to extend journalistArnab Goswami's interim bailand the Bombay High Court'sobservation that the Mumbaicivic body's action of demolish-ing part of actor KanganaRanaut's bungalow in Mumbaiwas illegal and smacked ofmalafide intentions.

Fadnavis targets MVA govt onissues of ryots, Maratha quota

The Thackeray government has failed inproviding financial assistance to farmers.The government has completely ignoredtheir plight. Cotton, soybean crops gotdestroyed due to pest attack, but no helpwas provided to farmers, said BJP leaderDevendra Fadnavis

PNS nTHIRUVANANTHAPURAM

The Kerala police is keepinga special watch on nomads andmigrant workers in the wake ofan increase in child missingcases in the state, a top officialsaid.

The state police chief, DGPLoknath Behera informed thestate Human Rights panelthat the Janamaithri wing ofthe police department hadbeen entrusted with the taskof tracing children who hadgone missing under variouscircumstances in the southernstate.

Information on nomadicgroups and migrant workerswere being collected, he said.

The 'Janamaithri SurakshaProject' is a prestigious com-

munity policing initiative ofthe Kerala government.

The rights panel chairman,Antony Dominic, had recent-ly directed the DGP to submita report on the steps taken tocontrol the disappearance ofchildren.

In the report, the top copsaid immediate and effectiveaction is taken if a complaintis received about a missingchild and to trace them.

The police report alsosaid an investigation was pro-gressing to find out the cir-cumstance in which seven-years-old Devananda, aschool going girl who hadgone missing while playing in

the backyard of her home andlater found dead in Kollamdistrict recently.

The rights panel soughtthe police report based on acomplaint filed by humanrights activist, P K Raju.

According to Keralapolice's latest crime statistics,a total of 91 cases of kidnap-ping and abduction of chil-dren were reported in thesouthern state in the initialthree months, till March, thisyear.

Of the total 1217 crimereported against children dur-ing the period, 331 were rapeand seven were murders, itsaid.

Nomads under lens as child missing cases rise

PNS n NEW DELHI

Four central police organisa-tions are functioning withoutregular heads for variedlengths of time as the govern-ment has not appointed theirfull-time chiefs.

The latest organisation tocome under this category is theCentral Industrial SecurityForce (CISF) as its chief RajeshRanjan is set to retire thismonth-end and the Unionhome ministry has given the"additional charge" of the postto SSB director general KumarRajesh Chandra "till the join-ing of regular DG, CISF oruntill further orders, whichev-er is earlier" as per an orderissued on November 26.

Similarly, the charge of thefederal counter-terrorist forceNSG, the Narcotics ControlBureau (NCB) and the centralpolice think tank -- Bureau ofPolice Research andDevelopment (BPRD) -- isbeing rendered in additional

capacities by various IndianPolice Service (IPS) officers.

Indo-Tibetan BorderPolice chief S S Deswal ishandling the "additionalcharge" of the NationalSecurity Guard since incum-bent A K Singh retired onSeptember 30.

Border Security Force(BSF) chief Rakesh Asthanais holding the additionalcharge of NCB since July lastyear after incumbent DG

Abhay was appointed as theDirector of Hyderabad-basedSardar Vallabhbhai PatelNational Police Academy.

Abhay, who goes by hisfirst name, is now serving asthe DG of Odisha Police.

Special secretary (internalsecurity) V S K Kaumudi isholding the additional chargeof BPRD since August afterhe was appointed to the pre-sent post in the Union homeministry.

4 central police organisationsfunctioning without regular chiefs

PNS n MUMBAI

Ajay Dake, a sixth standardstudent from Maharashtrahas become the toast of hisschool as Prime MinisterNarendra Modi lauded his"exceptional art talent" afterreceiving his sketch fromhim. Ajay, a student of the BalVidya Mandir High School inParbhani made a sketch ofthe prime minister and sentit to him, not expecting thathe would receive a reply. Hewas in for a pleasant surprisewhen he received a letterfrom Modi, in which the PMlauded his "exceptional arttalent".

PM Modi laudsstudent whomade his sketch

PNS n WASHINGTON

The US has imposed sanctionson four companies from Chinaand Russia for supportingIran's missile programme thatremains a "significant prolifer-ation concern," Secretary ofState Mike Pompeo has said.

The announcement wasmade on Friday as the US con-tinues to take tough measuresagainst Iran for continuingtheir activities related tonuclear arms.

“The US has sanctionedfour entities in China andRussia for their support ofIran's missile programme,which remains a significantproliferation concern. We willcontinue to use all our sanc-tions tools to prevent Iranfrom advancing its missilecapabilities,” Pompeo said.

The companies are ChengduBest New Materials Co Ltd andZibo Elim Trade Co, Ltd. inChina and Nilco Group, whichis also known as Nil FamKhazar Company and SantersHolding and Joint StockCompany Elecon in Russiafor transferring sensitive tech-nology and items to Iran's

missile programme.President Donald Trump

withdrew the US from thelandmark Iran nuclear deal in2018.

After withdrawing from theIranian nuclear deal, Trumphas asked all countries toreduce their purchase of oilfrom Iran to zero or face sec-ondary sanctions.

Iran insists its nuclear pro-gramme is for peaceful pur-poses.

Pompeo said all countriesneed to be vigilant to efforts byIran to advance its missileprogramme.

“These measures are part ofour response to Iran's malign

activities. These determina-tions underscore the continu-ing need for all countries toremain vigilant to efforts byIran to advance its missileprogramme,” Pompeo said.

“We will continue to work toimpede Iran's missile develop-ment efforts and use our sanc-tions authorities to spotlightthe foreign suppliers, such asthese entities in the People'sRepublic of China and Russiathat provide missile-relatedmaterials and technology toIran. The sanctions imposedinclude restrictions on USgovernment procurement, USgovernment assistance, andexports and will be in effect fortwo years,” he said.

US imposes sanctions onRussian and Chinese firms

PNS n COLOMBO

National Security AdvisorAjit Doval has met DefenceMinister of Maldives MariyaDidi and held a cordial anddetailed discussion on deep-ening bilateral partnershipwith the key island nation inthe Indian Ocean.

Doval's talks with Didiwas part of a trilateral mar-itime dialogue among India,Sri Lanka and the Maldivesbeing held here in the SriLankan capital.

Sri Lanka is hosting thefourth national security advi-sor trilateral meeting onmaritime security coopera-tion with India and theMaldives.

The meeting is takingplace after six years - the lastmeeting was held in NewDelhi in 2014.

“NSA #AjitDoval and@MariyaDidi, DefenceMinister of #Maldives held acordial & detailed discussionon deepening bilateral part-nership between India &Maldives in defence andsecurity,” High Commissionof India in Maldives said ina tweet.

Doval arrived in Colomboon Friday for the trilateralmaritime dialogue.

The high-level engagementthat covers a wide range ofsubjects is designed to initi-ate collective action on mar-itime security including mar-itime domain awareness,legal regimes, train in searchand rescue, maritime pollu-tion response, informationsharing, curbing piracy drugsarms and contraband traf-ficking in the Indian Oceanregion.

NSA Doval holds talks withMaldivian Defence Minister

PNS n KOLKATA

Nearly 8000 jobs have beensecured by IT professionals inWest Bengal who havereturned from other placesdue to the COVID-19 pan-demic, an official of the stateInformation Technologydepartment said.

The statae IT departmenthad developed the 'KarmaBhumi' app for professionalswho had returned from otherplaces to enlist themselves forgetting employment in thestate for a limited period oftime. "With the advent ofCOVID, there has been ahuge influx of IT profession-als here from outside," saidSanjay Das, joint secretary, ITDepartment, government ofWest Bengal.

Nearly 8000 ITprofessionals getjobs through'Karma Bhumi'

PNS n WASHINGTON

Joe Biden will be a presidentwho represents the best ofAmerica, his deputy and VicePresident-elect KamalaHarris has said,asserting that he is aleader the world willrespect.

Lavishing praiseon the 78-year-old USPresident-elect, Harrison Friday said that Biden willbe a president for allAmericans. “Know that”Biden “will be a presidentwho represents the best in us.A leader the world will respectand our children can look up

to,” Harris said in a tweet.Harris, 56, the daughter of

an Indian immigrant fromChennai, has created historyby becoming the first Black

American woman to beelected as the country'sVice President.

While Indian-originpoliticians have beenelected as heads of the

state in various parts ofthe world in the last sever-

al decades, from Mauritius toFiji, Harris as the vice presi-dent of the United Stateswould be the most powerfulpolitician ever. Biden, in aseries of tweets, called forunity in the country.

Biden represents thebest in us: Kamala

PNS n NEW DELHI

Assets worth over Rs 27crore of Chhattisgarh-basedformer IAS officer BabulalAgrawal have been attachedby the EnforcementDirectorate (ED), the centralprobe agency said onSaturday.

The agency is probingAgrawal, his family membersand others in connectionwith a money launderingcase linked to charges ofalleged corruption and dis-proportionate assets.

ED attachesassets of ex IAS officer

The announcementwas made as theUS continues totake toughmeasures againstIran for continuingtheir activitiesrelated to nucleararms

‘DELHI CHALO’

Stalemate continues as protestingfarmers refuse to budge

12 arrested for duping aspiringDelhi Police constables

MONEY MATTERS

Electric two-wheeler startupAther Energy on Saturday saidit has decided to replace its first

product, Ather 450, with Ather450X and Ather 450 Plus, whichhave been built on the sameplatform, with improved hardwareand software capabilities. The company had launched theAther 450 in 2018. The companywill stop the sale of Ather 450 on November 28 in both Bengaluruand Chennai, Ather Energy said in a statement. This marks the end ofphase one of Ather Energy as a company as it moves on to a newstage of rapid growth aided by a new round of Series D funding, itadded. "Our maiden model, Ather 450 was the outcome of four yearsof continuous work on R&D, design, prototype building and testing,and improving the product to make it production worthy. Thelearnings from Ather 450 in terms of design, specifications andproduction along with feedback from the owners has helped shapethe Ather 450X and Ather 450 Plus," Ather Energy Co-founder andCEO Tarun Mehta said. The company is now looking forward todelivering new products across all cities, he added.

HYDERABAD | SUNDAY | NOVEMBER 29, 2020 Money 06

Drug firm Zydus Cadila onSaturday said the presence ofPrime Minister Narendra Modi

at its Zydus Biotech Park willmotivate the company to scalegreater heights in its pursuit tobridge unmet healthcare needs.Modi visited Zydus Cadila'smanufacturing facility nearAhmedabad, as he began his three-

city visit to review ongoing coronavirus vaccine development work."His inspiring presence will motivate us to scale greater heights inour quest to bridge unmet healthcare needs," Zydus Cadila said in aregulatory filing. The Zydus family comprising 25,000 Zydans standscommitted to the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' mission and offering thenation safe and efficacious vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics tofight COVID-19, it added. Zydus Cadila had earlier announced thatthe phase-I clinical trial of its vaccine candidate ZyCoV-D is over andit commenced phase-II clinical trials from August.

Yoga guru Swami Ram Dev, hisyounger brother Ram Bharatand close aide Acharya

Balkrishna will be on the board ofsoya food brand Nutrela-makerRuchi Soya that was recentlyacquired by Patanjali Ayurved.Ruchi Soya Industries Ltd in anotice to shareholders soughtapproval for appointment of Ram Bharat, 41, as the ManagingDirector of the company. Subsequent to a consortium of PatanjaliAyurved Limited, Divya Yog Mandir Trust (through its businessundertaking, Divya Pharmacy), Patanjali Parivahan Private Limitedand Patanjali Gramudhyog acquiring Ruchi Soya in insolvencyproceedings last year, the new management got right to appoint theboard, the notice said. "The board of directors of the company at itsmeeting held on August 19, 2020 appointed Shri Ram Bharat asmanaging director of the company with effect from August 19, 2020to December 17, 2022 and his designation was changed from whole-time director to managing director," it said. Now the shareholderapproval is being sought for the appointment. Bharat will be paid asalary of Re 1 per annum, the notice said.

Baba Ramdev on board of RuchiSoya; brother Ram Bharat to be MD

Public sector enterprises(PSEs) shouldstrengthen internal

decision-making and projectimplementation capabilitiesfor improved performance,SAIL Chairman Anil KumarChaudhary said on Friday.Chaudhary, who is also thechairman of CII PSE Council,made the remarks whileaddressing a PSE Summit organised by the industry chamber. "Hehas emphasized on strengthening the cost competitiveness, internaldecision making and the project implementation capabilities of thePSEs for their improved performance," a statement issued by SAILquoted Chaudhary as saying. He also said there are ampleopportunities for CPSEs to create a synergy among themselves toimprove their performance and contribute towards AtmanirbharBharat, the statement added.

‘PSEs should strengthen decisionmaking to improve performance'

Ather discontinues 450 scooter,replaces it with 450X, 450 Plus

‘PM's presence to motivate firm tobridge unmet healthcare needs’

PNS n PANAJI

Union Minister of State forDefence Shripad Naik onFriday said expected orders forsurface ships and submarinesto be executed from 2020 to2030 by the Indian Navy are tothe tune of USD 51 billion.

Naik was addressing a virtu-al meet on opportunities atGoa Shipyard Limited (GSL)and Mazagao DockShipbuilders Limited (MDSL),organised by theConfederation of IndianIndustry (CII).

The union minister said thatmore than 60 per cent of theIndian Navy's budget is dedi-cated to capital expenditureand nearly 70 per cent of thiscapital budget has been spenton indigenous sourcing,amounting to nearly Rs 66,000crore in the last five years.

He said that with more than60 major surface and sub-sur-

face platforms being built formainly the Indian Navy andthe Indian Coast Guard atGoa Shipyard Limited,Mazagon Docks ShipbuildersLimited, Garden ReachShipbuilder and Engineers(GRSE), Hindustan Shipyards

Limited (HSL) and CochinShipyard Limited (CSL), thepotential for MSMEs is vast.

Naik said "expected ordersfor surface ships and sub-marines to be executed from2020 to 2030 are to the tune ofUSD 51 billion".

Speaking during the event,CII Goa State CouncilChairman Blaise Costabir saidthat with India's maritimeinterests growing at a fast pacein line with Prime MinisterNarendra Modi's vision of aUSD 5 trillion economy by2025, the country's shipbuild-ing will see increased focus anddemand.

The country's vast coastlineand the evolving geopoliticalsituation in India's neighbour-hood has also put a greaterthrust on maritime safety andsecurity, he added.

Chairman and ManagingDirector of GSL said thedefence shipbuilding sectorwill continue to see robustgrowth.

There was 9.3 per centgrowth in the defence budgetin 2019-20, he said and addedthat the country expects to seethe same trend for the next 10years.

PNS n NEW DELHI

Petrol price on Saturdaycrossed Rs 82-mark in Delhiand diesel surpassed Rs 72 alitre after eighth increase inrates in past nine days.

Petrol price on Saturdaywas hiked by 24 paise per litreand diesel by 27 paise as hopesof a vaccine development ledto a rally in international oilprices.

Petrol price in Delhi rose toRs 82.13 per litre from Rs81.89, according to a pricenotification from oil marketingcompanies.

Diesel rates went up fromRs 71.86 to Rs 72.13 per litre.

This is the eighth increase inrates since November 20 whenoil companies resumed dailyprice revision after nearly two-week hiatus.

In nine days, petrol price hasgone up by Rs 1.07 per litre anddiesel rate has risen by Rs 1.67.

Prior to the November 20hike, petrol prices had been

static since September 22 anddiesel rates hadn't changedsince October 2.

Public sector oil marketingcompanies - Indian Oil Corpo-ration, Bharat PetroleumCorporation Ltd and Hindus-tan Petroleum CorporationLtd - revise rates of petrol anddiesel daily based on bench-mark international oil priceand foreign exchange rate.

They have, however, resortedto calibrating the rates sincethe pandemic broke out witha view to avoiding volatility inretail prices. The 58-day hiatusin petrol price revision and 48-day status quo on diesel rateswere preceded by no change inrates between June 30 andAugust 15 and a 85-day statusquo between March 17 andJune 6.

Petrol price crosses Rs 82mark, diesel above Rs 72 /ltr

PNS n ISLAMABAD

The Asian Development Bankhas approved a USD 300 mil-lion policy-based loan toPakistan to help promotemacroeconomic stability in thecash-strapped country.

The announcement by thePhilippines-headquarteredlender came a week afterPakistan secured USD 800 mil-lion worth of debt freeze dealsfrom 14 members of the G20.As of August this year, thecountry owes USD 25.4 billionto the group of 20 rich nations.

The USD 300 million loanwould improve trade compet-itiveness and export diversifi-cation, said HiranyaMukhopadhyay, PrincipalPublic Management Specialistat the Asian DevelopmentBank (ADB).

“While COVID-19 hit

Pakistan at a critical point in itsmacroeconomic recovery, thegovernment's ongoing effortsto ensure stability have startedshowing encouraging resultsthis fiscal year,” Mukhopadhyaysaid in a statement.

The ADB's programme willsupport Pakistan's efforts toimprove its export competitive-ness which was more impor-tant than ever given theimpacts of the pandemic, hesaid, adding that it is expected

to enable Pakistan in recover-ing current account deficit ina sustained manner as well asfacilitate export diversifica-tion.

It will introduce importanttariff- and tax-related policyreforms to help improvePakistan's international com-petitiveness and furtherstrengthen key institutions,including accreditation bodies,the Export–Import Bank of

Pakistan, and the PakistanSingle Window.

The bank said that severalsteps were also taken to intro-duce e-commerce, strengthenkey institutions involved infacilitating trade, and enhancethe export certif icationprocess.

The new financing fallsunder Subprogram 2 of theTrade and CompetitivenessProgramme.

Under the first phase, theADB helped the governmentusher in key reforms, includ-ing reducing or abolishing tar-iffs and ad hoc duties on a largenumber of raw materials andintermediate goods.

Pakistan has been facingthe dilemma of rise and fall inthe export growth showingunderperformance of itsexport industry. It was furthercompounded by the coron-avirus. International financialinstitutions like the ADB pro-vide help to address such issuesand the latest loan facility wasits manifestation.

Pakistan along with 76 otherpoor African countries hadqualified for the G-20 debtrelief initiative, announced inApril this year for May-December 2020 period, tocombat the adverse impacts ofthe COVID-19 pandemic.

ADB approves $300 mn loan to cash-strapped PakistanPakistan has been facing the dilemma

of rise and fall in the export growth

showing underperformance of its export

industry. It was further compounded by

the coronavirus. International financial

institutions like the ADB provide help to

address such issues and the latest loan

facility was its manifestation

PNS n NEW DELHI

Foreign direct investment(FDI) into India grew by 15per cent to USD 30 billionduring the first half of thecurrent fiscal, according toofficial data.

Inflow of FDI duringApril-September 2019-20stood at USD 26 billion, asper the data of theDepartment for Promotion ofIndustry and Internal Trade(DPIIT).

In July, the country hadattracted USD 17.5 billionworth of foreign investments.

Sectors which attractedmaximum foreign inflowsduring April-September2020-21 included computersoftware and hardware (USD17.55 billion), services (USD2.25 billion), trading (USD949 billion), chemicals (USD437 million) and automobile(USD 417 million).

FDI up 15 pcto $ 30 billionduring April-Sep: Govt data

PNS n NEW DELHI

Regulator Sebi has barredNDTV promoters, PrannoyRoy and Radhika Roy, from thesecurities market for two yearsand also directed them to dis-gorge illegal gains of morethan Rs 16.97 crore forindulging in insider tradingmore than 12 years ago.

Besides, the watchdog hasbarred seven individuals andentities for insider trading inthe shares of the company fora period varying from one totwo years. Also, some of themhave been asked to disgorgeillegal gains made from trad-ing in the shares when theywere in possession ofUnpublished Price SensitiveInformation (UPSI).

The directions follow aprobe conducted by the mar-kets regulator betweenSeptember 2006 and June 2008wherein various violations ofinsider trading regulationswere found.

The amount has to be paidjointly or severally by them

along with 6 per cent interestfrom April 17, 2008 till the dateof actual payment.

All the entities have violat-ed Prohibition of InsiderTrading (PIT) Regulations,Sebi said in three separateorders passed late on Friday.

Sebi noted that PrannoyRoy and Radhika Roy togeth-er made a gain of Rs 16.97crore while indulging in insid-er trading in the shares of NewDelhi Television Ltd (NDTV)while in possession of UPSI

relating to the proposed reor-ganization of the company.

Prannoy Roy was the chair-man and whole time directorand Radhika Roy was the man-aging director during periodunder investigation and werepart of the decision makingchain that had led to crystal-lization of the UPSI.

Discussions pertaining toreorganisation of the companystarted on September 7, 2007and the disclosure was madeon April 16, 2008.

Hence, September 7, 2007 toApril 16, 2008 was UPSI peri-od.

Prannoy Roy and RadhikaRoy sold shares on April 17,2008, when the trading win-dow for them was closed andmade a profit of Rs16,97,38,335.

By doing so, they violatedPIT norms and also acted incontravention of NDTV's codeof conduct for prevention ofinsider trading which prohib-ited them from trading at leasttill 24 hours after the informa-tion was disclosed to the stockexchanges.

PNS n MUMBAI

Madhya Pradesh-basedagritech startup Farmkart,which offers a wide range ofagricultural products and ser-vices to farmers through its e-commerce platform, is plan-ning to raise Rs 90 crore inSeries A funding from venturecapitalists for expansion acrossthe country.

"At present we are function-ing at 1,240 locations inMadhya Pradesh. We plan tobegin our immediate expan-sion to 8,000 locations inMaharashtra, Gujarat, south-ern region and reach one lakh(locations) by December 2021,across the country in next oneyear. Initially, we had investedRs 15 crore in this venture andare looking to raise Rs 90crore in Series A fundingthrough venture capitalists,"Farmkart founder Atul Patidartold PTI.

Recently in one of theepisodes of 'Mann Ki Baat',

Prime Minister NarendraModi lauded the efforts ofPatidar to digitally connectfarmers and deliver farmingitems to their doorsteps.

Farmkart's tech solutionsare designed for non-techsavvy farmers providing themwith fertilisers, pesticides,fungicides, seeds, farm equip-ment, among others at theirdoorsteps with no deliverycost. Besides, farmers can alsorent modern farm equipment

from Farmkart's e-commerceplatform.

Patidar said the companyhas tie-ups with top brands,both domestic as well as inter-national, for its e-commerceplatform. "We have tied-upwith almost all major interna-tional and domestic brands forseeds, fertilisers, fungicidesand pesticides. We have tie-upsfor farm equipment and arelooking to add more in thiscategory," he added.

PNS n COLOMBO

Sri Lanka remains willing andable to meet all its debt oblig-ations as it has done in thepast, the government said onSaturday, a day after Fitchdowngraded the country's sov-ereign credit rating to "CCC".

Fitch Ratings said on Fridayit was downgrading Sri Lankafrom "B-" to "CCC", barelyabove default, after the govern-ment's 2021 budget showedtoo steep revenue projections,following earlier tax cuts anda higher deficit for 2021 than2020.

The ratings agency said thebudget was lacking a crediblefiscal consolidation strategyand provides only limiteddetails on the potential rev-enue impact of some of themeasures announced, raising

uncertainty about the gov-ernment's planned reductionin government debt and bud-get deficit.

"The Government hasrepeatedly expressed its abili-ty and willingness to meet allits debt obligations falling duein the period ahead," thefinance ministry said in astatement.

The government wishes toreaffirm to foreign investorsthat have put faith in SriLanka continuously over thepast several years that thecountry remains willing andable to meet its debt obliga-tions, as it has done impecca-bly in the past, the statementsaid. It said the assessment hadignored several key proposalspresented in the 2021 Budgetregarding deficit financing inthe period ahead.

PNS n MUMBAI

Nearly 65 per cent of thedomestic air travel hasreturned to the pre-COVID-19 level and now there is aneed to evolve a strategy tobring back the tourism indus-try on its feet, Civil AviationSecretary Pradeep SinghKharola said on Saturday.

He was addressing a webi-nar on 'Aviation andTourism-the Road Ahead'hosted by the Federation ofAssociation of IndianTourism & Hospitality.

Kharola also said in thetimes of COVID-19 air trav-el has become a preferredmode of travel for being a safemeans of transportation.

"On the first day ofresumption of domestic airservices (May 25) there were79,000 people who wouldtravel and we were worried.But gradually it startedimproving," he said.

PNS n NEW DELHI

Retirement fund body EPFOhas extended the deadline forsubmission of life certificatesby pensioners till February 28,a move which would benefitover 35 lakh persons whocould not submit the docu-ment by November due tocoronavirus pandemic.

The pensioners who couldnot submit their life certifi-cates till November 30 dead-line, would get pension everymonth till February.

"In view of the ongoingCOVID-19 pandemic andthe vulnerability of elderlypopulation to coronavirus,the Employees' ProvidentFund Organisation (EPFO)has extended the time limitup to 28th February 2021 forsubmission of Life Certificate(Jeevan Pramaan Patra-JPP)in respect of the Pensionersdrawing pension under EPS1995 (Employees' PensionScheme-1995) and whose

Life certificate is due in anymonth till February 28, 2021,"a labour ministry statementsaid.

Presently, a pensioner cansubmit JPP anytime duringthe year up to 30thNovember, which is valid fora period of one year from thedate of issue.

All such pensioners cansubmit life certificates tillFebruary 28, 2021.

During this extended peri-od, pension will not bestopped in respect of 35 lakhpensioners who could notsubmit JPP during November2020, the ministry added.

Multiple modes for sub-mission of JPPs including3.65 lakh Common ServiceCentres (CSCs), branches ofpension disbursing banks,1.36 lakh post offices, postalnetwork of 1.90 lakh postmenand Grameen Dak Sevaksunder the Department ofPost can be availed by pen-sioners.

NDTV shares: Sebi bars two promotersThe directionsfollow a probe bymarkets regulatorbetween September2006 and June 2008wherein variousviolations of insidertrading regulationswere found

Sri Lanka willingto meet its debtobligations: Govt

‘65 per cent ofdomestic airtravel back topre virus level’

EPFO extends date to

submit life certificate

Farmkart to raise Rs 90 cr fromVCs for pan-India expansion

‘Navy to execute $ 51bnorders for ships, submarines’

special 07

Amid soaring COVID-19 cases and deaths in the Capital, MUSBA HASHMI speaks with doctorsand experts to bring you a report on why Delhi is struggling in navigating the third wave

On Thursday, the Delhi Governmentinformed the High Court that it is con-sidering lockdown, night curfew in orderto curb the virus. The fact that Delhi is

one of the worst-hit States obviously leave theGovernment with no second choice.

But, what has led Delhi to this troublesomezone? Is it irresponsible public behaviour, festoon-ing of throats with masks to escape penalty? Or isit the decision to relax the lockdown in the face ofcrashing economy, joblessness and societal depres-sion?

Whatever the reason, fatalities have rocketed.Alarmingly, experts fear this is just the tip of theiceberg.

With 5,000 fresh cases daily and deaths peak-ing to over a 100, in the Capital a whopping 6 lakhhave been impacted by coronavirus infection.

“The increasing death toll is a matter of worryfor everyone. No one specific reason can be attrib-uted for this surge. The causes are diverse and needto be dealt with accordingly. The toll is proportion-ate to the infected cases. Due to the rising numberof cases, the hospitals are overburdened, hence pro-viding timely treatment to all the patients is a bigchallenge. This can be one of the reasons for thedeaths,” Dr Shiba Kalyan Biswal, Consultant,Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, Narayana Hospital,Gurugram, tells you.

Another reason can be that although COVIDis a respiratory disease, it affects the immune sys-tem and the blood vessels as well. Such conditionsaggravate co-morbidities that a person may have.Hence, if a person is suffering from some under-lying disease, he is more prone to suffer from a seri-ous condition after he contracts COVID infection.Such patients are also unfortunately adding to thetoll,” he said.

The ongoing festive and wedding season hasadded to the danger.

“Many people attended gatherings and socialmeetings. This also added to the problem. Also thefall in temperature can propagate any flu or infec-tion. Dense population is also another factor in bigcities and often people fail to follow social distanc-ing norms. The lockdown was lifted because of eco-nomic constraints but as a result, the careless atti-tude of people in public places is reflected. It is timepeople avoid stepping out if unnecessary,” he said.

Hans Raj Hans, Member of Parliament, North-West Delhi, said that Government laxity along withseveral other factors has led to high number of casesin the Capital.

“Poor mask discipline, the decision to open allthe markets, more than 50 people at weddings andother related functions, social gatherings during fes-tivities, the deteriorating air quality index and ris-ing respiratory disorders are reasons for the rise ofCOVID-19 in the National Capital. Besides, thecasual approach of Delhiites is also one of the rea-sons for this rise. The Central Government is work-ing with the State Government to control the sit-uation in Delhi, but the residents should cooper-ate by taking all possible care. Without this coop-eration, the situation will not abate anytime soon,”Hans said.

It’s been only nine days since the DelhiGovernment implemented a fine of `2,000 for notwearing a mask in public and within four days ofthe rule, the Delhi Police collected nearly `1.5 croreas challans. According to the data shared by theDelhi Police, a total 7,655 challans have been issuedfrom November 20 to November 24. The figure,which then started to see a dip, is sufficient toexplain how masks is not at all an option worth con-sidering for Delhiites, who seemingly don’t fear thedeadly virus.

Varun Gupta, a social activist and environmen-talist, agrees with Hans and says that Delhiites areextensively responsible for the current situation.

“To a great extent, Delhiites are responsible forthe increase of COVID in the Capital. People shouldconsider their mask as the only vaccine at present.During the festival time, what I analysed was thatpeople almost forgot that the world is fighting a pan-demic. The markets and some of the public placeswere crowded just like it used to be in the pre-COVID time. Adding to that, maximum peoplewere not wearing masks or the same was and isbelow their nostrils. Such cases were seen in themetro too. Not only this, even vegetable sellers,shopkeepers, food stall owners, rickshaw man wereseen without masks. Government, doctors, acad-emics, social organisations, police, media and oth-ers keep telling peoples to take precautions, but peo-ple are living in oblivion. I would just say to every-one that there is still time to protect yourself,” Guptasaid.

Dr Shuchin Bajaj, Founder Director, UjalaCygnus Group of Hospitals, tells you that the inten-sity of the second and third wave of a disease isalways much widespread and it is the time whenpeople need to take more precautions.

“Historically, the intensity of second and thirdwaves are always much widespread in case of anypandemic. People are now tired of the guidelinesand are coming out in large numbers this leads toa much extensive viral load and more chances ofgetting exposed to the virus. If you remember, inthe beginning of the pandemic the deaths of doc-tors were much higher because they had the high-er viral load and they didn’t know much about thevirus. They didn’t know the exact way of donningand doffing the PPE kits. But doctors have learntrapidly and are following all the precautions. Butthe general public doesn’t know the etiquette ofwearing a mask. They keep taking it off just to speakand never shy away from touching the outer sur-face of the mask. So doing all these things provesto be very dangerous especially in crowded settingslike markets and offices,” he said.

He tells you that Delhi is now open to peopleaccessing healthcare from the nearby cities whichwas not the case earlier. “People were not allowedto cross State boundaries during the first wave.Usually people come to Delhi when their case is crit-ical and that’s why the mortality in Delhi is high-er,” Bajaj added.

Bajaj feels that the guidelines of marriagesshould have been made permanent instead. “I feelthat the limited crowd in weddings help us as a com-munity also. It prevents poor people from gettingexploited and also curtails the unnecessary expen-diture. Undoubtedly, during COVID it preventsmarriages from acting as super spreaders of infec-tion,” he said.

He points out that aggressive testing is neces-sary in any pandemic. “We can’t keep chasing thevirus all the time. We have to test and identify thepeople upfront those who are symptomatic. That’sthe reason South Korea got a handle on the pan-demic very quickly because of the massive aggres-sive testing policy that they implemented,” Bajaj said.

Even when Maharashtra and other States ofIndia saw a surge in cases, Delhi managed to keepthe case count as low as 2,000. Dr Sandeep Nayar,Senior Director, Centre of Chest and RespiratoryDisease, BLK Super Speciality Hospital, tells youwhy things have gotten worse now.

“There are many factors, one of which is over-crowding. Now that all the markets are opened, peo-ple are out there and not following any social dis-tancing norms or proper hygiene. If you see the sce-nario outside, people are climbing on each other.Not even 10 per cent of the people are wearing theirmask properly. It is something that has trou-bled us. It goes without saying that thishas contributed in the rising cases,”Nayar explains.

The second reason is thatbecause of the pollution thesymptoms are getting worse.Earlier patients with mild symp-toms were opting for homequarantine, but now COVIDalong with pollution is result-ing in worsening of the symp-toms and patients are rushingtowards the hospital.

He believes that the high casesare not only a result of aggressive testing in theState. “States like UP have also increased the test-ing rate. Our positivity rate has gone up to 13 percent. Aggressive testing is happening but then about25 days back, the occupancy had come down to 70-80 per cent. Now things have gone from bad toworse and we had to add more beds. It is not onlybecause people have tested positive, but because theyare in a bad shape and have to be rushed to the hos-pital,” Nayar tells you.

He adds the increasing mortality rate in Delhican be attributed to the severity of the COVID-19symptoms. “We are witnessing about 100 deaths

everyday. This is not acceptable by any means. Theseverity of symptoms have increased and people arenot getting beds easily. The patient is moving fromone hospital to another in search of a bed, this tooand fro will surely make their symptoms worse. Weare worried about this situation,” he said.

The new rules implemented by the DelhiGovernment should help in curbing the cases.“These regulations should help. Initially, there werea limit of only 50 people in marriages. But then theyremoved it and now they have come back to it again.They have realised their mistake,” he said.

Our society, Nayar says, is divided in twogroups of people. One, who wears masks

and the others who don’t. “The oneswho wear masks think that the later

ones are fools and vice versa.They think that just because ofone disease they will not wear amask. It is only when they suf-

fer from it they realise itsseverity. It is just that they learn

the hard way,” he said.When can Delhi expect a

decrease in the cases, Nayar says,that we can only hope for it.

“Many European countries went for asecond lockdown. Who knows we too

have to take some stern steps. I am not sayingwe should go for a lockdown, it is purely the

Government’s call. But some strict steps should betaken to tackle this situation. Though, theGovernment has recently revised some rules, theyhave to be very strict and make sure that they arealso implementing it. Just announcing won’t makea difference,” he said.

Lastly, he has a request to make to the gener-al public. “Masks are a must. Take care of yourselves.Keep your body hydrated. Eat fresh fruits and veg-etables. Avoid junk food,” he said.

STEPS TAKEN BYDELHI GOVERNMENT

l Challan of `2,000 for not wearing

a mask in public

l Not more than 50 people allowed

in marriages

l Aggressive testing. Daily RT-PCR

tests limit has been increased to

37,200

l Atleast 205 ICU beds added in

hospitals run by the Central and

Delhi Governments

l 120 ventilators arrived from

Bharat Electronics Limited,

Bangalore, given to hospitals

Photos: RRanjan DDimri/The PPioneer

DELHI SURGE: ALL TO

BLAMESURGE:

BLAME

HYDERABAD | SUNDAY | NOVEMBER 29, 2020

This week you card foresees healing and rejuvenation.Those suffering from an injury or other physicalailments will find quick recovery. There are times in ourlives when we must accept change and allow things tocome to a natural end. Every negative note has itspositive end too. On the career front, a comeback ofyour old and trusted employee who was supposed tobe the backbone of your profession is indicated.Venues will open for those who wish to expand theirbusiness or start a new venture. Time spent on theacademic pursuits will pay good results now. On therelationship front, love is difficult and confusing thisweek. Sticking to old beliefs may spoil your relations. Itis advised to avoid the intervention of the third party.

Lucky number 19Lucky colour Sky BlueLucky day Friday

ARIES March 21-April 19

This week your inner and outer conflicts may bring uponnegative effects to your healthy lifestyle and routine.Challenges are foreseen on the career front. This is aperfect time to clear the fog. This is also a good time toset your goals and targets and work towards them in thesystem. The win will come after a struggle. Your greatinsight may work in your favour. A break-throughsuccess is on the cards. On the relationship front, youwill follow tradition instead of your heart. Theconventions and traditions are overpowering you and youwill try and seek answers from a guru or a senior personwith regard to your emotions. This week you may bemore inclined spiritually and worldly pleasures, love andemotions would take a back seat.

Lucky number 10Lucky colour BrownLucky day Tuesday

TAURUS April 20-May 20

This week you will possess the power and energy tocreate a fresh lifecycle for yourself. You will havecontrol over your desires and temptations that mayharm your health. You realise the importance of thebalancing factor in your life and your body is in tunewith the five elements of nature. On the career front,you may have experienced setbacks that make yoususpicious of the others. The turning point will comewhen you can leave the past behind you and develop amore open mind about the future. This is the time tothink positive and move ahead. On the personal front,confrontation is likely between lovers. Do not letemotion get in the way. Rather, use fact and logic tomake your decisions.

Lucky number 6Lucky colour PinkLucky day Friday

GEMINI May 21-June 20

This week you will adopt a moderate approach to lifeand be true to your commitments. You have understoodthat you need a routine and a careful regime if you wantto achieve your goals. It is not necessarily a veryinteresting or exciting period. You are not hesitant tospend money in a gym, meditation, following nutritivediets etc to be in good health and fitness. These effortswill pay you well. On the work front, you will feel stabilityin your profession. Use experience and skills to achieveyour desired goals. Advice from a senior person injob/business will be very helpful. On the personal front,you may get too emotional or possessive in yourrelationship, and that may become the cause of irritationand separation. You will be compassionate towardsthose dear to you.

Lucky number 21Lucky colour MagentaLucky day Wednesday

CANCER June 21-July 22

There is a balance between mind, body and soul thisweek. You will be energetic, enthusiastic and full of life.Your farsightedness will pay you rich dividends. This isthe time to enjoy good food and live a healthy life, bothmentally and physically. On the career front, new joboffers and opportunities in business will help youbroaden your horizon. If expansion in the business is theplan, this is the right time. Go for it! Good finances,income and gains through the ancestral property areindicated. On the relationship front, those contemplatingmarriage may start browsing the market for a suitablebride or groom. Guard against temptations andaddictions. A step towards spirituality may prove to bethe saviour.

Lucky number 3Lucky colour PeachLucky day Wednesday

VIRGO Aug 23-Sep 22

This week cards indicate excessive fear, phobia, and worry.Mental tension will remain, and this may reflect on yourhealth. Headache, insomnia, and sleeplessness may causeunrest. Be careful of cold, cough and seasonal ailmentstoo. This is the time to meditate, join yoga and take abreak from the hectic schedule. On the career front, a littleindiscretion may put your reputation in the firing line so becareful. At the work area, you may go unnoticed and feelneglected. This may cause tension and hamper yourgrowth. Do not run away from responsibilities andcommitments. Do not disclose your working plans till youaccomplish them. On the personal front, your partner willbe filled with an abundance of energy and enthusiasmwhile you feel demoralised, or hold low self-esteem.

Lucky number 12Lucky colour GoldenLucky day Sunday

LIBRA Sep 23-Oct 22

In keeping with the ongoing festive spirit, you will beactive and vibrant. Self-knowledge and mastery are thekeys to success. You possess the inner light andconsciousness, and sheer faith and experience from thepast would help you become self-reliant. Throughmeditation, you are on the path to attain spiritualfulfilment and share this light with others. On theprofessional front, your wisdom and leadership will helpyou establish a niche for yourself. Your plans are nowwell underway and you are beginning to consider moreopportunities to expand your current plans. On thepersonal front, you will find your relationships growingand developing to a satisfactory level. There is faith,understanding with each other.

Lucky number 2Lucky colour IndigoLucky day Tuesday

SCORPIO Oct 23-Nov 21

This week your satisfaction and contentment will playan important role for you to be in good health. You willenjoy worldly pleasures and relax. ‘All is well’ feelinggives you cool mind, contentment, positive aura and aglow on the face. On the work front, there is generosityin your temperament and ability to convince otherswith your communication. You care for the emotionalwellbeing of others and respect your colleagues andjuniors. They follow you, admire you, and respect yourmagnanimity. On the relationship front, there is love,fun and entertainment. You spend time together andpresent an expensive gift to your beloved and partner.Time is right to bring your romantic relationships out inthe open, the family will accept your choice.

Lucky number 18Lucky colour OrangeLucky day Saturday

AQUARIUS Jan 20-Feb 18

Fatigue may take a toll this week. Issues — domestic orprofessional — will leave you disturbed. Restlessness orproblem related to Blood Pressure may bother. Consult adoctor. You may require proper sleep and support of nearand dear ones. A positive approach will help put life intoyou. On the career front, there is nothing new happening.Things are moving as usual. Fear of stagnating career orprofession may bother you. This is a temporary phase. Asthe week progresses, you will find the positive results.With your wisdom and experience, you keep movingahead and achieve the desired results. On the relationshipfront, you will enjoy the quiet powers inherent in you. Youwill be able to influence your partner by diplomaticconversation.

Lucky number 11Lucky colour WhiteLucky day Monday

PISCES Feb 19-March 20

This week you may enjoy the nature’s bounty andblessings of the Almighty. Cure of a very old orprolonged illness is on the cards. Those in urgent needof motivation and inspiration to lead a healthy andmeaningful life will find a mentor. You feel empoweredand embark on a new journey which is progressive andmakes you feel comfortable. On the work front, this isthe time to keep counting the blessings. You may bebusy organising an auspicious ceremony at home/office.The career will boom and so will be your interaction withthe outside world. On the personal front, confusion,misunderstanding with the partner is likely. You need toguard yourself against selfish motives, aggression andany haste decisions in this period. Patience is the key.

Lucky number 4Lucky colour RedLucky day Wednesday

CAPRICORN Dec 22-Jan 19

Those putting on weight must put their health on priority.You will finally understand the value of money and goodhealth, and work out a plan to be in harmony with natureto maintain good health. Focus on walking, breathing andprayers for mental and physical healing. On the careerfront, unrelated issues would occupy mind space. Youeither have little time or are feeling lethargic about work.Hard work and efforts put in the last week are not sorewarding. This is a temporary phase. On the personalfront, something special is likely to be celebrated thisweek. You feel emotionally contended and find a healthyrelationship. You have full faith in your partner. This is thetime when mutual understanding between the two is greatand strengthening of relationship is indicated.

Lucky number 13Lucky colour BlueLucky day Thursday

LEO July 23-Aug 22

You will feel healthy and free and may experience achange of perspective. Negativity replaces optimism.New possibilities are foreseen. You will learn theimportance of solving your problems with rational andthorough thinking. This is also a time to utilise yourcreative energies. Professionally, a promotion is indicatedwhich will make you confident and secure. You are self-disciplined and energetic. Those in business, your ideasand views are being respected and followed. This is thetime when your intelligence, wisdom and experience willpay you rich dividends. On the personal front, yourrelationship will grow. You are romantic and love is in theair. Other relationships too are nurturing, and meaningfulin your life.

Lucky number 9Lucky colour GreenLucky day Friday

SAGITTARIUS Nov 22-Dec 21

YYOOUURRWWEEEEKK

AHEADMADHU KOTIYA

sundaymagazine

tarot 8Hyderabad, November 29, 2020

Someone concerned about not beingable to contain his wavering mindand habit tendencies, despite seri-

ous efforts towards that end, connectedwith me for necessary guidance. “Sir, foralmost a decade now, I have been reli-giously pursuing Yoga-asana and medi-tation as guided by two acclaimed teach-ers in the field. So far, I have been ableto just identify my fault lines. I havebeen trying to address them, with nosign of tangible success in immediatefuture. My monkey like mind keeps ran-domly flirting with varying thoughtsand ideas, and so I fail to do justice tomy priority preferences. I don’t knowhow to go about further. Kindly guide.”

“Well, the purpose of spirituality isto understand the living realities of life,which when absorbed in the deeprealms of mind help in making reasonedchoices in life and conduct with ease andcomfort. What is the fun in pursuingspiritual process, if it has not helpedreform your thought process?” I asked.“Remember, all actions on your part, beit pursuing spiritual process or targetingmaterial desires are conducted by mind.Better, give me an account of how youare pursuing the process so that the

missing link in the process could be fig-ured out,” I said. Looking at the accounthe shared, it appears that he keepschanting mantra with focus on his ener-gy centres. So, he has been mechanicallyworking on energy plane. He, however,has cared the least to work upon histhought process. He has been readingmany books written by realised peoplefor necessary guidance, which makeshim academically aware. But his mind,intensely engaged in wanton thoughtsthat don’t allow him the mind-space andtime necessary to absorb the educativeinputs, but for which it will not findreflection in his conduct.

Here I recall the saying of a realisedspiritual master: “You may enjoy thegrace of the God, the holy men andteachers. But if you lack the grace ofmind, you may go to rack and ruins”.That makes it incumbent upon us towork upon our mind-state before pursu-ing spiritual process, otherwise it willnot offer desired result. It may not beout of place to mention that there arefive states of mind — Darkening,Scattering, Gathering up, One pointedand Concentrated. Ignorant minds arethe darkening type. Minds flirting with

random thoughts are the scattering type.Those who realise that only a focusedmind can lead to success, try to containtheir wavering mind, which comesunder gathering up type. As you gradu-ate in the process further, you maybecome one pointed. They still remainsubject to pushes and pulls. But relative-ly they are able to remain focused totheir priority preferences for long. Thosewho are able to effortlessly remainfocused for long is the call of a concen-trated mind.

Those who wish to evolve spiritually,and even grow materially, preparatory tothat, at least they should try to graduateto the stage of one pointedness, if notconcentrated. I then suggested him tofollow the three stage meditation processas suggested in my book titled: “God orNo God; Awareness enriches life.”

The man then asked: “Sir, I will pur-chase your book and follow the methodyou have suggested. But tell me, is mypresent mental predicament reflected inmy chart? Do I have the potential toevolve spiritually?”

Look at the astrological pointers.You are born in an airy sign Libra withfiery planet Mars conjunct headless Ketuthere in the lagna. Mars is also adversely

placed with respect to the two luminar-ies — the Sun and Moon. Moon is ill-disposed to Venus, which makes you tootouchy and sensitive. You may getoverexercised even on trivial issues andblow it out of proportion as would fieryMars flaring up the air element mean.Read together with the implications ofthe ill-disposed luminaries, it speaks of atemperamental, moody, irritable, impul-sive, and rash character, having a disori-ented mind.

Now coming to spiritual potential,benevolent Jupiter over the head in thebirth chart speaks high of your spiritualquotient. Seen at subtle level, lagna sub-lord Rahu, happens to be the lord of 5thcusp identified with merits accrued fromthe past. 9th sub-lord identified transla-tion of acquired merits into fruits hap-pens to be Moon, which occupies thesub-lordship of Rahu. All put togetherindicates seed of spiritually deeplyingrained in your mind. Positioning ofMoon, however, calls for concertedefforts to organise your mind beforeexpecting the desired results.

The wwriter iis aan aastrologer, vvastu cconsultant and sspiritual ccounsellor. CConnect wwith hhim aat

Tel: 991-111-99818037273/9871037272Email: bbharatbhushanpadmadeo@gmail.com

ASTROTURFBHARAT BHUSHAN PADMADEO

Madhu Kotiya is a tarot card reader, spiritual healer, and Founder, MShezaim Institute of Tarot and Divination. Contact details: madhu@indiatarot.com, www.indiatarot.com, M: 9873283331

Mind balance is the key

TEAM AGENDA DESK > NAVNEET MENDIRATTA, CONSULTING EDITOR | H LAYOUT AND DESIGN > SATISH CHANDRA JAKHMOLA, SENIOR EDITOR (CREATIVE)

NNooww yyoouu ccaann wwrriittee ttoo uuss aatt aaggeennddaappiioonneeeerr@@ggmmaaiill..ccoomm

FEELINGS COME AND GO LIKE CLOUDSIN A WINDY SKY. CONSCIOUSBREATHING IS MY ANCHOR

— THICH NHAT HANH

The Covid-19 pandemic has led tolockdowns across the world andmade working from home aninevitable necessity. While thisallows businesses to remain

operational, it has exposed organisations toseveral new risks, particularly for those whofail to take the proper precautions. Even as theworld got busy battling the effects and impactof the virus, hackers saw this as anopportunity to exploit new vulnerabilities thatemerged from a large work force workingfrom home.

Various reports around the world indicatea sharp increase in cybercrime even as Covid-19 has caused major disruptions and forcedchanges in the way we work. During this crisis,there has been a sudden surge in cybercrime inmany countries with cybercriminals preying onnew factors and vulnerabilities related toinformation systems that have come into play.

Scams, phishing websites, maps loadedwith malware, and spam messages linked to theCoronavirus have been reported the worldover. Dominic Raab, the British ForeignSecretary observed in early May that ‘Therewill always be some who seek to exploit a crisisfor their own criminal and hostile ends. Weknow that cyber criminals, and other maliciousgroups are targeting individuals, businesses,and other organisations by deploying Covid-19related scams and phishing emails.’ Since thencyber threats and attacks have only increased.

The lockdowns have not only made uswork from home, but also shop-from-home,study-from-home, bank-from-home, attendmeetings from home and so on. Studies havealso shown a dramatic increase in the amountof time people are spending on-line.Fortunately, technologies like videoconferencing, BYOD (Bring Your OwnDevice), VPN (Virtual Private Network), andcollaborative platforms exist today that enableworking from home. However, the exposure tocyber risk has grown exponentially and rathersuddenly and existing security standards havebeen compromised. Cybercriminals have beenquick to discover that employees working fromhome have weaker cybersecurity than whenthey operate from their offices. They haveexploited new weaknesses in the varioustechnologies used and have incessantlylaunched attacks.

Given that we are spending (and willcontinue to spend) a major part of our liveson-line, a comprehensive assessment of thecyber risks that we are exposed to asindividuals, families, and businesses, is key tosurvive and thrive.

A large number of organisations havealready announced that some office-basedemployees will be working from home in someform for the foreseeable future and perhapseven permanently. This shift to a work fromhome environment which initially was

considered as a temporary solution maybecome a regular practice. This necessitates acomplete rethink on cyber risks and involvesmoving away from traditional cybersecurityapproaches. Any policies and protocols relatedto cybersecurity which were introduced whencompanies switched to work-from-home mayhave served them in the short-term, but whenit comes to long-term measures, a thorough re-evaluation needs to be conducted. With theeasing of lockdown restrictions, whenemployees will no longer be confined toworking from home, the larger questions ofdealing with cyber risks of working-from-anywhere will become more relevant. The topof the cybersecurity agenda for individuals,businesses, and governments in the aftermathof coronavirus should therefore be to mitigatecyber risks and build a safer and more resilientcyber environment.

INDIVIDUALS AND CYBER RISKS

We have all been a target of cyber-attacksin some form or the other, for instancephishing attacks, phone calls or SMSs fromcybercriminals, among others. They are afteryour personal data, passwords, social ids, bankinformation and social contacts… basicallyanything that can either fetch them a price foryour data or can help them launch biggerattacks. Escaping a cyber-attack means that youhave been vigilant, prepared or simply luckyenough to avoid one.

There are fortunately many things we cando as individuals to make our online existencesafer while working from home or for thatmatter working from anywhere. Before lookingat what we can do, consider the findings of thelatest Norton Cyber Security Insights Reportwhich suggests that:l 30% of people cannot detect a phishing

attack and another 13 percent cannot tellthe difference between a real message and aphishing email. This implies that four in 10are vulnerable.

l Eighty-six percent of people said they mayhave been a target of a phishing incident.

l 70% of consumers wish that their homeWi-Fi network could be made more secure.However, a mere 27% consider it likely thattheir home Wi-Fi network could besusceptible to attack.This goes to show that cyber threats are

greatly enhanced by the fact people are largelyunaware of the cyber risks that they have tocontend with and the counter measures theymust adopt to mitigate the risks. Some of thebasic things that contribute to maintain bettercyber hygiene while working from home are:l Instead of using personal devices, company-

provided computers and laptops should beused

l A VPN software can be utilised to connectthe organisation network

l Using different devices for work and leisure

l Stopping remote access unless it is anecessity

l Default passwords should be changedl Devices and online accounts should have

strong passwords. For both personal andbusiness accounts multi-factorauthentication wherever available, shouldbe utilised

l Meeting links should strictly not be sharedpublicly or through social media platforms

l Trusted apps or those recommended byone’s employer should be used for workinvolving collaboration

l Regularly updating operating systems,antiviruses and other applications oncomputers and other devices

l Home Wi-Fi and admin passwords shouldbe changed regularly, while avoidingopen/free Wi-Fi networks

l Cyber-hygiene guidelines as laid out byone’s employer should be strictly followed

ORGANISATIONS AND CYBER RISKS

Today, almost all businesses regardless ofthe industry they are in and their size arevulnerable to cyber-attacks which can happenat any time, without warning. This is trueacross sectors and geographies. The pandemichas only accelerated the need to implementcomprehensive cybersecurity programs after athorough assessment of existing, new, andemerging cyber risks. The concept of a cyber‘perimeter’ which was once confined to thewalls of an organisation or a data centre hascompletely eroded. Security professionals havebeen forced to abandon the traditional castle-and-moat strategy used so effectively in thepast due to the arrival of cloud computing andthe use of portable devices by organisationscoupled with the integration of personaldevices into organisational systems. The cyberperimeter has interminably moved from thewalls of the enterprise to what is today aflexible and extended virtual perimeter. Thiscalls for a reassessment of cyber risks andrequirements across the following fourdimensions:l Technology dimension: securing IT

systems, applications, networks, data, anddevices

l People: employees and others who are usersand have access an organisation’s system

l Policies, Procedures and Processes that areused to run business operations

l Laws, regulations, and compliance

In the near future as the pandemiccontinues, there are a few types of cyber-threats companies must specifically beprepared for and safeguard against:

Ransomware: Ransomware is a type ofmalware that is used to deny access to acomputer system or data by encrypting theinformation and keeping it hostage until theransom is paid. There has been an alarming rise

in Ransomware attacks in recent months. Thedeployment methods include sociallyengineered emails packed with malware, or aweblink that triggers a drive-by download.Some of the ways to protect your systems fromRansomware attacks include changing defaultpasswords at all access points, trainingemployees in identifying suspicious email links,keeping air-gapped up-to-date data back-ups,prohibiting the use of USB drives, and updatingall operating systems and software in time.

Phishing: This is a type of socialengineering attack where hackers attempt tosteal login credentials such as passwords ordeceive people in multiple ways into installingmalware. Employee training to recognisephishing emails and the use of multi-factorauthentication can help to prevent or mitigatedamage from a cyber-attack which may resultfrom a phishing exploit.

Business email compromise: During thispandemic, a large number of cases of businessemail compromise instances have beenreported. Here, cybercriminals spoof emails(usually making them look like they are fromlegitimate sources) to redirect a paymentintended for one of the company’s suppliers totheir own bank accounts. In a work from homescenario, where employees are not in front ofeach other to seek clarifications, these kinds ofcyber-attacks are on the rise. Preventing suchattacks calls for a high degree of vigilance andsituational awareness among employees(especially those processing payments).Employees must be advised to be careful andalert to such attempts and double check beforethey initiate action. Organisations must alsoimplement additional controls to prevent anymistakes in this regard.

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): Theuse of personal devices like phones, laptopsand tablets for office work has becomecommon nowadays. As employees switchedto working from home, there are many whoalso started to use their home devices for dayto day work. While companies may havepolicies for onboarding these devices into thecorporate network, there is often laxity andcarelessness in observing the protocols. Moreso, during the pandemic. The absence ofspecific organisational cybersecurityprotocols makes them a cyber risk. If any ofthese devices are compromised, they canprovide hackers with an opening into acorporate’s network and data which can beaccessed and exploited. If employees continueto work from home and rely on personaldevices for the foreseeable future, then amore robust protocol must be establishedwhich mandates the installation and updatingof security software on personal devices thatare used for office work.

sundaymagazine

1110Pebbles of a dead sea

Few know that Goa has a past that datesback to the saga of Parshuram in Hindu

mythology and India’s pre-Islamic era

F R O M T H E I N S I D E

>> p2

Hyderabad, November 29, 2020

Only for kiddies

You go through spellswhere you feel thatmaybe you’re too

sensitive for this world.I certainly felt that— Winona Ryder

If an adult is watching this, it will bedifficult to get past the strange languagethe elves speak or the near bizarreness...

As the world got busy battling the effects and impact of the virus, hackers saw this as anopportunity to exploit new vulnerabilities that emerged from a large numbers working from home,writes AJAY SINGH, as he explains various cyber risks faced by individuals and groups and suggests ways to tackle them

THE LOCKDOWNS HAVE NOTONLY MADE US WORK

FROM HOME, BUT ALSOSHOP-FROM-HOME, STUDY-FROM-HOME, BANK-FROM-HOME, ATTEND MEETINGSFROM HOME AND SO ON.

STUDIES HAVE ALSOSHOWN A DRAMATIC

INCREASE IN THE AMOUNTOF TIME PEOPLE ARESPENDING ON-LINE.

FORTUNATELY,TECHNOLOGIES LIKE VIDEO

CONFERENCING, BYOD(BRING YOUR OWN DEVICE),

VPN (VIRTUAL PRIVATENETWORK), ANDCOLLABORATIVE

PLATFORMS EXIST TODAYTHAT ENABLE WORKINGFROM HOME. HOWEVER,

THE EXPOSURE TO CYBERRISK HAS GROWN

EXPONENTIALLY

sundaymagazine

heritage 10Hyderabad, November 29, 2020

YOU DON'T STUMBLE UPONYOUR HERITAGE. IT'S

THERE, JUST WAITING TOBE EXPLORED AND SHARED

— ROBBIE ROBERTSON

Nestled between the WesternGhats and Sahayadri Hills,and watered by two beautifulrivers named Mandovi andZuari, this land was long

isolated from the Indians. It was isolatednot because of any physical feature or inac-cessibility, but for its distinctive historyand heritage that was seemingly “foreign”for British-ruled Indians. Goa, the coastalterritory of Konkan heartland, was alwaysa hidden pearl and a priced colonial nestfor Portugal, a country that traded andruled at many parts of the globe for sev-eral centuries.

Goa and Portuguese colonisation ofIndia are almost synonymous. Few knowGoa has a past that dates back to the sagaof Parshuram in Hindu mythology andIndia’s pre-Islamic era.

Hindu mythology says that this landwas created from sea by Parashuram the6th incarnation of Vishnu. Parashuram,according to mythology, excavated thissurface from sea with his arrow and gift-ed it to the Brahmins. In the ancient times,it was known as Govapuri and laterGomantak.

In 3rd century BC, it was a part ofMaurya Empire and after that till the endof 750 AD almost all Hindu dynasties ofWestern India like Satavahanas, Chalukyaand Rashtrakuta ruled this land. It fell intothe hands of Muslims in 1312 and againin 1370, Hindu king of Vijaynagar con-quered it. Hindu rule ended in 1470 whenAdil Shah of Bijapur gained Goa.

This was the time when the fragranceof Goa’s exotic spices began to attract thePortuguese, who had already arrived inKerala in 1498, like a magnet. In 1510, 12years after Vasco Da Gama arrived inKerala as a trader, another Portuguesenamed Alfonso De Albuquerque showedhis military might and became the rulerof Goa.

Soon after, they took over Diu in 1534and Daman in 1559. A large part of Bengalwas already under the Portuguese andwith the new territory, they cemented afoundation of India’s Portuguese coloni-sation. This prevailed till 1961, followingwhich India reclaimed it after a soft mil-itary operation.

The conquest of Goa was perhaps thebeginning of Portuguese dream to imprinttheir colonial stamp upon India. As atyrannical race they soon got into conflictwith local Indians, resulting in demolitionof temples and forceful religious conver-sions. This was also the time when theytried to stop the practice of sati cult butfailed. Soon the need was felt to protectGoa from other European powers, likeBritish and Dutch East India Company,and even from the Maratha warrior,Shivaji, who attacked the Portugueseof Goa.

The need for mili-tary competencepushed thePortuguese togo for mas-sive forti-fication.They gotdirect sup-

port from Lisbon to expand their activi-ties in India, such as expansion ofChristianity, through the missionarieslanding from Europe. Soon there was avisible change in the entire demographyof Goa and tangible changes in architec-ture, language, food, dress, music andsports Goa came about. Goa graduallybecame a unique place within India.

This little Portugal of India gradual-ly boomed in its own style and pace.Majestic churches, forts, printing press andabove all a legend named “St FrancisXavier” turned Goa into an unparalleledplace to which no other Portuguesecolonies of India (be it those in Bengal orGujarat) came a close match.

Towering among the past relic of thatfascinating time is Fort Aguada that wasbuilt from 1609 to 1612 and still standsa living testimony at north Goa. This isone of the few forts of India, that wasnever conquered by enemies.

Built in sturdy brown laterite stone forthe sake of combating the British, Dutchand Marathas, this is perhaps the bestsample of Portuguese military architecturein India. Aguada means water, and thisfort once had several sweet water streamsflowing inside it, offering a great provi-sion of drinking water both for its habi-tants and sailing ships that used to anchornear it. The fort strategically facesCandolim beach near river Mandovi.The upper part of the fort was used aswater station and fort where as the lowerpart was used to berth Portuguese warships. The huge water reservoir is assumedto store not less than 23,76,000 gallons ofwater.

The 1.3 metre thick fortification wallskirts the seashore and ascends the edgeof bare rocky island. The massivegrand stand of Fort Aguada oncehad 79 canons in place. A 13 mthigh light house builtin 1864 is the mosticonic landmark ofthe fort. Ito f t e n

appears in many movies. St Lawrencechurch built in 1630 is situated inside thefort.

Though a large part of the fort is nowdilapidated and submerged in water, itsremains give enough idea of typicalPortuguese style of fortification. Its wellplanned moats, gunpower room, bastions,light house and escape passage all are stillvisible and very clearly mirror mystictimeline of the history.

Goa witnessed a silent revolutionwhen India’s first printing press was set upthere, though accidentally. It is interest-ing to note that the first book printed inIndia was not in Bombay or BengalPresidency, where historically almost allmodern wonders landed from Europe.

It was in September 1556 when aprinting press machine, which was orig-inally meant to be delivered at Abyssiniaor Ethiopia, arrived in Goa and placed inSt Paul’s college. From that machine, forthe first time, a Spanish technologistnamed Juan De Bustamante printed abook of Theology named ConclusionsPhilosophic.

This machine was actually shippedfrom Portugal to Abyssinia of Africa.When the ship anchored at Goa on its wayto Abyssinia, the relations between the twocountries had declined as the king ofAbyssinia detested the fact that Christianmissionary had come to his country. Sothe machine was abandoned at Goa andit was sheer luck that India, as the firstcountry of Asia, got to see the magic ofprinting machine. Unfortunately, after1660, the machine went traceless. Today,a printing museum in Goa tells the storywithout showing any tangible relics.

Portuguese touch is palpable in everycorner of old Goa, especially in its mas-sive churches and cathedrals. Two mostsignificant of those are Se Cathedral deSanta Catarina and Basilica de BomJesus. Both are UNESCO world heritagemonuments and both are filled with sto-ries of exciting history of Portuguese con-quest of Goa and its religious history.

Se Cathedral is perhaps the most cel-ebrated religious building of Goa. This isthe largest church of India and even big-ger than any in Portugal.

A classical example of GothicPortuguese Manueline style of architec-

ture, this massive church of 250 ft in lengthand 187 ft wide was built between 1562to 1619 during the golden era ofPortuguese.

Dedicated to the feast of St Catherineof Alexandria, it was built to commemo-rate the victory of Portuguese overMuslims in 1510. The church exteriorbears a Tuscan touch while the interiorsare much of Corinthian. Its extraordinaryIberian façade, colourful mosaic floors,typical European ceiling and exotic woodcarvings, all put together, create an out-standing piece of European architecturewhich is matchless on many counts. Thelaterite plinth and lime plaster of thechurch have survived the test of time.

Earlier, the church had two towers.One of which was grounded in 1776. Thechurch has a bell called the Golden belland a chapel known as Cross of Miracles.It is believed that in 1619, the vision ofChrist had fallen there. This legendattracts a huge crowd all across the globe.It is the Cathedral of Arch Bishop of Goa.A convent adjacent to it houses a small yetgood archaeological museum.

If Se Cathedral is famous for Cross ofMiracle then Basilica de Bom Jesus (asmaller monument) is a bigger crowdpuller as it holds the legend of St FrancisXavier, the man who is considered the“greatest figure in Asia after St Thomas theApostle”.

Goa’s emergence as one of the holiestplace in the Christian world is largelybecause of its association with a holy relic

of a man who died in 1552 in China. Born in Spain and sent to India in

1542 by both the King of Portugal andPope the third, Francis Xavier, spent 10years in Goa serving leprosy cursed peo-ple and spreading the message of Christ.From 1510 to 1540, when Portuguese bru-tality over Indian masses was at its apex,he landed there as an apostle of peace andfirst gained confidence of local people byserving them. It was he who attracted ahuge mass to Christianity that finallychanged Goa to a very different demo-graphic marquee in India.

After his death in China, his bodywhich was still intact after many monthsof his demise, was brought back to Goaon March 14, 1554 and kept in a casketgifted by Queen of Portugal Maria Sophiain 1560 at Basilica de Bom Jesus. The relicis placed on the right wall of the churchand can be seen from a distance.

This attracts thousands of pilgrimsacross the world. Every 10 years the cas-ket is taken down and people are allowedto get a closer look of the relic.

Over a period of time, however, sev-eral distortions have taken place. One fin-ger of its feet was vandalised by a lady in1554 and the right hand of the body wassent to Vatican in 1914, as demanded byPope himself. This was a year after Xavierwas crowned as Saint.

Basilica De Bom Jesus is a gem ofarchitecture and perhaps, the most famousPortuguese footprint in Goa. Its bare exte-rior, made of brown laterite, offers an irre-sistible charm to mingle with history. Builtbetween 1594 and 1605 in late Rene struc-ture, it blends Doric, Ionic, Roman andCorinthian style of architecture. Thefaçade contains Jesuit motif embalm“HIS” an abbreviation of Latin “IesusHominum Salvator” meaning “Jesus.Saviour of Men”. The monument enshrinesstatue of St Ignatius Loyala and infantJesus.

Cathedral, fort, lighthouse and oldcolonial buildings are now open to pub-lic and Government alike. The generalpanorama of old Goa runs like a motionpicture visualising a saga much differentfrom India’s general history. Even thoughPortuguese are long gone the profoundfootprints are alive in every edifice ofParashuram’s land.

F R O M P A G E 1

Goa and Portuguesecolonisation of Indiaare almost synony-

mous. Few know thatGoa has a past that

dates back to the sagaof Parshuram in Hindumythology and India'spre-Islamic era, writes

SOMEN SENGUPTA.UNESCO World

Heritage Week wasrecently celebrated inIndia from November

19 to November 25

THIS LITTLEPORTUGAL OF INDIA

GRADUALLY BOOMEDIN ITS OWN STYLE AND

PACE. MAJESTICCHURCHES, FORTS,

PRINTING PRESS ANDABOVE ALL, A LEGENDNAMED “ST FRANCISXAVIER” TURNED GOA

INTO ANUNPARALLELED PLACETO WHICH NO OTHER

PORTUGUESECOLONIES OF INDIA

(BE IT THOSE INBENGAL OR GUJARAT)CAME A CLOSE MATCH

Focussing on the softeraspects of cybersecurity:Thus far, discussions around

cyber security have largelyfocused on IT infrastructure, andthe risks that software andhardware can pose to businesses.However, the pervasiveness ofcyber threats like Ransomware,stealing of passwords, socialengineering attacks like phishing

and Business Email, Compromiseamong others are forcingbusinesses to consider the softerand less tangible aspects of cybersecurity such as awareness,training and a security firstculture. A heightened level ofsituational awareness in thecontext of responsible onlinebehaviour, maintaining basiccybersecurity standards and

training is also necessary toensure both new and existingemployees are well versed incyber risks.

GOVERNMENT AND CYBER RISKSGovernments around the

world have taken note of thealarming rise in cybercrime inrecent months which coincidewith the spread of the pandemic.

Indian citizens, commercial andlegal entities faced nearly sevenlakh cyber-attacks till August inthe current year according toGovernment data. Recognisingthe rapidly increasing cyber risks,the Government of India issuedguidelines for Chief InformationSecurity Officers (CISOs) relatingto their key roles andresponsibilities for securing

applications/infrastructure andcompliance. All Ministries/Departments of the CentralGovernment, State Governments(and their organisations) and allcritical sectors are implementing a‘Cyber Crisis Management Planfor countering cyber-attacks andcyber terrorism’. Mumbai suffereda major power outage on October12 which lasted several hours.

Today, authorities areinvestigating whether this was acyber-attack.

Cyber risk is real, and it ispotent. For all digital citizensand entities, it is a reality thatwill outlast the pandemic. Thespecific cybersecurity securitychallenges across industrysectors, governmental systems,public utilities are wide ranging.As cybersecurity experts say, youare never done as far ascybersecurity is concerned.

Cyber risks and threats keepevolving and so shouldcybersecurity measures andsystems. This is one game youhave to keep winning to surviveand thrive in the digital world.

The writer is a CorporateAdvisor and mentor. He has

recently authored a book titledCyberStrong: A Primer on Cyber

Risk Management for BusinessManagers, published by SAGE

Publications India

Working From Home? Beware of that cyber attack

DEAD SEAPEBBLES OF A

DEAD SEAPEBBLES OF A

Photos: Worrel Kumar Bain and Reynold Machado

n What made you say yes to playYasmine??

The character of course. Initially, I wasapprehensive about taking up the rolebecause it is a replacement, but when I gotknow about the storyline and the characterbrief, I liked it very much. It was somethingthat I wanted to do. It is something thatone doesn’t get to do in daily life. I amfortunate to have got a chance to play thisrole. n Was it hard to get into the skin ofthe character? More so because youhave replaced Avneet, and thecharacter was already well-established?

Yes. It was extremely difficult toget into the skin of the characterbecause if the audience has seen anactor play a character for twoyears, it becomes hard for them toaccept another actor play thesame role. Also, I didn’t have thescope to play it purely my way, becauseAvneet portrayed it in her way andcomparisons will be drawn. Initially, ittook a lot of thoughts to play itdifferently from the previous actor andstill maintain the essence. That wasa double pressure. Also, it was out ofmy comfort zone, it required actionthat I haven’t done earlier. Therewas so much to do. n Some memories from the sets.

It’s been only a while since Iam a part of this show, buthaving said that I have somegreat memories already. Fromeating lunch together with thecast to sharing our lifeexperiences with each other,we already have created thatrapport. Sometime, even Iwonder hamare paas itnibaatein aati kaha se hain. Ishare a very good bondwith Ginu (played byRaashul Tandon), Sheefan(played by AmitRaghuvanshi), Koyal(played by Shivani Badoni)and Aladdin (played bySiddharth Nigam). Wenever shy away frompulling each other’s leg.There is a very darklocation at the setswhere we shoot all thehaunted scenes, so inour free time all five ofus sit there and shareghost stories. It is fun.n Your characterNaina from Yeh UnnDino Ki Baat Hai earnedmuch love from the audience. How

has life changed after the show?A lot. When I started shooting the

show, it was hard for me to accept that Ihave got the show and that I am living mydream of acting. During the show only, mylife changed for the better. My personalitywas improved and I got to learn a lot. I wentout of my bubble and experienced theworld out there. There were instanceswhen I was troubled with certain thingsbut now they serve as a learningexperience and help me tackle situationswith much ease. It is hard for me tomention all the ways in which my lifehas changed after it, there’s so much.n Is there a role that you would sayno to?

Not really. I want to play a lotof varied roles in my life. I don’twant to keep playing the samekind of roles for five-six years. Iam always on a look out fordifferent characters. With thatbeing said, I don’t think there

will be a role which I willever turn down.n A reality show that

you would like to be apart of?

Yes. I wouldreally want to be a

part of JhalakDikhhlaa Jaa. Ilike the showsince my

childhood andwould love to be a part of it.

HYDERABAD | SUNDAY | NOVEMBER 29, 2020 films & tv 11

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Road Ranchi-834008, Jharkhand Editor: Chandan Mitra, Resident Editor: Anupam Sheshank, RNI Regn. JHAENG/2008/22930, REGD. No. RN-142/2008. AIR SURCHARGE of Re. 1.00 East: Calcutta, Bhubaneswar, North: Leh West: Mumbai & Ahmedabad South: Bangalore & Chennai. Central: Khajuraho, Delhi Office: No. 6, Behind Gulab

Bhawan, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, New Delhi-110 002, Phone: 011-40110455, Communication Office: F-31, Sector 6, NOIDA, Gautam Budh Nagar-201301, U.P. Phone: 0120-4879800 & 4879900, Lucknow Office: 4th Floor, Sahara Shopping Centre, Faizabad Road, Lucknow 226016. Telephones: 0522-2346443, 2346444, 2346445.

‘Replacements come with challenges’TUNE IN TO HERO MODE

Get ready for a wonder like never beforeas Sony SAB's announces its mega-launchof the year Hero — Gayab Mode On. Withthe power of invisibility as a distinctiveelement in the story, the show promises tobe a pure visual delight for the audienceblended with a gripping storyline that willleave you asking for more. The show isslated to launch on December 7, every Mon-Fri at 8 pm.

The show is an incredible journey of acommon man, Veer (Abhishek Nigam) andhis quest to find his father. His life getsfascinatingly exciting as Veer chances upona miraculous ring, which upon wearing giveshim the power of invisibility. The ring canonly be worn and owned by someone whohas the inherent virtues of kindness,courage, selflessness, nobility and empathy.At the same time, it also has the power tocorrupt and degrade the weak heartedmaking them vicious. But Veer decides to

use this superpower for good, making himthe Hero. However, Veer’s prized possessionis also desired by the evil aliens of the outerworld and here begins Hero’s real challengeto save humanity.

Introducing Abhishek Nigam in the leadrole of Veer aka Hero who promises to livenup the screen along with the very talentedManish Wadhwa as Amal Nanda, Ajay Gehias Shukracharya, the gorgeous YeshaRughani as Zaara, Nitish Pandey as Mamaand the super-cute twins Surabhi andSamriddhi as sisters Sweety & Meethi alongwith a host of other stars in the show'sgalaxy.

WHAT’S IN A PROFESSION?Presenting a heartfelt romantic drama,

Colors is set to launch Namak Issk Ka, ajourney of a flamboyant Chamcham who islooked down upon for her profession but ismarried off into a reputable family inMumbai.

Even though Chamcham is a dancertraditionally known as Nachaniya, she is alevelheaded and morally righteous person

Raised in an orphanage, Chamchambecame a dancer in order to make endsmeet and to take care of those dependent onher. To essay the character of Chamcham,

actor Shruti Sharma has been roped inShruti Sharma says: “I am very excited

to have landed this role. Chamcham is anincredible character, and playing her givesme a lot of scope for performance as anactor. The concept o-f the show is verystrong and the background story of thecharacter and her journey will definitelychange social perceptions. I am also gratefulto Colors for giving me this very specialopportunity and I look forward to working onthe show and giving it my all.”

Kya aap karenge ek nachaniya kobahu ke roop mein sweekaar? WatchNamak Issk Ka coming soon only on Colors.

RAGHAV’S ENTRY IN RENUKA’S LIFEZee TV recently presented a heart-

warming story that captures the essence ofthe ever-evolving dynamics of the saas-bahurelationship in Indian society. TitledHamariwali Good News, it showcases aunique role reversal between the daughter-in-law Navya (Srishti Jain) and her mother-in-law Renuka (Juhi Parmar) to give theirfamily the much awaited Good News.Versatile actress Juhi Parmar plays the roleof Renuka in the show, who is the mother-in-law and the lifeline of the Tiwari family.Shakti Anand, on the other hand, is seenessaying the pivotal character of Mukund,who is Renuka's husband and Navya'sfather-in-law.

We've seen how Renuka and Mukundhave been distant from each other and whilewe've seen the duo clash and argue likeevery couple, recently Renuka was trying tomake an attempt to get closer to Mukundonce again. However, it looks like a newcharacter is all set to take their arguments toa whole new level. Manish Goel is all set toenter as Dr Raghav in Hamariwali GoodNews and it is his past equation with Renukathat will take the Tiwaris by storm.

Apparently, Raghav and Renuka were inlove and he was going to ask for her hand inmarriage. However, Mukund's rishta came inbefore he could make his move and the restis history. While her husband was initiallyunaware, he came to know after seven-eight

years of marriage and since then hisrelationship with Renuka has never been thesame. Mukund felt that he has been betrayedand has been suspicious of her ever since.When Raghav and Renuka bump into oneanother after so many years, how willMukund react? And what will Raghav doafter meeting Renuka? Well, the audience isin for a treat as a lot of twists and turns areset to play out in the next few episodes.

With Raghav all set to enter HamariwaliGood News and create chaos in Renuka andMukund's life, the audience will surely wantto know what will happen next in the Tiwariparivaar.

GET READY TO MEET PHOOL KUMARIBhojpuri film icon and bold performer

Rani Chatterjee has successfully made amark in the entertainment industry. Thedaring actor is all set to make heads turn asshe enters &TV's Gudiya Humari Sabhi PeBhari. Portraying the role of Nanhe's (SudhirNeema) love interest Phool Kumari, Rani willcreate a spectacle amongst the men in thefamily whereas with the women, not somuch.

When Gudiya (Sarika Bahroliya) findsout that Nanhe's medical reports showtraces of cancer she is disheartened to learnthat he has only a few days left to live. Tomake the most for Nanhe who longs for acompanion, Phool Kumari enters the house,adding an extra dose of entertainment and

humour. Everyone in the house is astonishedby her breathtaking looks and latke-jhatkes.They can't resist themselves and alwaysseem to have an excuse to be around herand her kaatil adaayein.

Expressing her excitement, RaniChatterjee says: “I am thrilled to portray therole of Phool Kumari. It is the first time I willbe exploring this genre, and I believe thatthis show is the perfect fit for me to make adebut in it. As Phool Kumari now enters theshow, viewers will be in for a treat. I am surethey will enjoy this new role of mine andcontinue to shower me with their love andsupport.”

T E L L Y T A L E

Although every possible care and caution has been taken to avoid errors or omissions, this publication is being sold on the condition and understanding that information given in this publication is merely for reference and must not be taken as having authority of or binding in any way on the writers, editors, publishers, and printers and sellers who do not owe any responsibility for any

damage or loss to any person, a purchaser of this publication or not for the result of any action taken on the basis of this work. All disputes are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of competent court and forums in Delhi/New Delhi only. Readers are advised and requested to verify and seek appropriate advice to satisfy themselves about the veracity of any kind of advertisement before

responding to any contents published in this newspaper. The printer, publisher, editor and any employee of the Pioneer Group's will not be held responsible for any kind of claim made by the advertisers of the products & services and shall not be made responsible for any kind of loss, consequences and further product-related damages on such advertisements.

Feel goodfamily treat

HOME THEATRE

THE CHRISTMAS CHRONICLES: PARTTWO Netflix*ing: Kurt Russell, Goldie Hawn,Judah Lewis, Darby Camp, KimberlyWilliams-Paisley, Julian Dennison,Tyrese Gibson Rated: 6/10

If an adult is watching this, it will bedifficult to get past the strangelanguage the elves speak or the near

bizarreness of the entire storyline. Butfirst, they are Santa’s elves; they can speakwhatever they want as long as SantaClaus understands the same. Second, itis a Christmas movie. What else is onegoing to expect but a good Santa Clausand Mrs Claus. An evil elf who is hellbent on destroying Christmas forever.Imagine the catastrophe in the child’s lifeif there was no Christmas, no gifts, nostocking to hang, no gingerbread houseor cookies; it is akin to a Diwali with nocrackers.

Having said that, the kids are goingto love this movie. The elves are cute andyou want to cuddle them even if one ofthem is evil. The entire Santa’s village isa sight to behold – a giant Christmas tree

in the middle of the square with lightstwinkling, guns firing snow at regularintervals (it is a secret village in the NorthPole that no one is supposed to knowabout so it has a shield cover), hotchocolate you revive you instantly andmost importantly the idea of a Christmaswith healthy food – broccoli cake!

Santa’s sleigh is another high point.It is like a high-speed sledge withreindeers managing to dodge the evil elf ’shyenas or so they look like. Totallysomething out of a sci-fi film.

Then there is Kurt Russell andGoldie Hawn, one of Hollywood’s mostenduring duos who have been togetherfor 37 years. Goldie here has a muchbigger part to play than the cameo shedid in the original one. She maintains theholiday spirit and does magic at the spanof her fingers. The film rests on theirshoulders and while one can see thefamiliarity and ease, they have with eachother, the plot doesn’t really help themsteer it to safety.

Over all it is a movie that thechildren will love; the adults can give thisone a miss

— Shalini Saksena

DOLLY PARTON'S CHRISTMAS ON THE SQUARENetflix*ing: Dolly Patron, Jenifer Lewis, Josh Segarra, JeanineMason, Treat William, Jenna Hathaway Rated: 5.5/10

Those who don’t know who Dolly Patron is, here is a bitabout her. She is one of the most honoured femalecountry performers of all time, achieving 25 RIAA

certified Gold, Platinum, and Multi-Platinum awards. She hashad 25 songs reach No 1 on the Billboard country musiccharts — a record for a female artist.

Not only this, she has nine Grammy Awards, two AcademyAward nominations, ten Country Music Association Awards,seven Academy of Country Music Awards, three AmericanMusic Awards and hit films like Steel Magnolias and 9 to 5 toher credit.

This one, a musical, was bound to create a stir given it isthe whole Scrooge thing. This time it is a rich woman who hasinherited her father’s property and is all set to evict everyoneon Christmas Day! But it is a Christmas movie and hence thewhole idea of giving rather than receiving. No surprises herehow it ends.

The surprise is how beautifully this musical has beencurated. The dancers are amazing, the set is beautifully doneand how the dialogues have been woven into songs.

While there is nothing much in terms of the story, the funis in watching the great choreography, a few toe-tapping tunes,creating a fantasy and that miracles happen.

— Shalini Saksena

Only for kiddies

I want to play a lotof varied roles in mylife. I don't want tokeep playing the

same kind of rolesfor five-six years. I

am always on a lookout for different

characters. With thatbeing said, I don't

think there will be arole which I will ever

turn down

ASHI SINGH, who has recently replaced AVNEET KAUR to play Yasmine in Sony Sab’s Aladdin Naam Toh Suna Hoga, speaks with MUSBA HASHMIabout the challenges that she faced and reveals that she would love to be a partof Jhalak Dikhhlaa Jaa

Plan Your Day

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Kiko Milano: The leading Italiancosmetics brand has unveiled its mosttempting offer of the season — Buy 3and Get 3 free, applicable on the entirerange across categories available at KikoMilano exclusive stores pan India.Pamper yourself and don’t miss achance to avail this exhilarating offer tillNovember 30.

Abhishek Bhattacharya, CountryDirector, Kiko Milano says, “Every year,customers increasingly anticipatetempting offers & await in excitement forthe brands to reveal them for BlackFriday sales. This year’s beauty deals areset to be more riveting than ever, with

our ‘3 + 3’ BlackFriday specialpromotion, we expectthe sales to grow bymulti-folds alongsideacquisition of a newcustomer base.”

Mad Over Donuts: India’sfavorite donut brand — is givingall its patrons another reason toBite Into Happiness with theirBlack Friday Sale till today.With exciting offerslike buy 3 donuts andget 3 free, buy 4 donutsand get 2 free, and buy 6donuts and get 6 free acrossall their specialty stores, MadOver Donuts is sure to satisfy yoursweet tooth cravings in the sweetestpossible way. Visit your nearby MadOver Donuts stores to check the offer.So, what are you waiting for! Bite intoHappiness with Mad Over Donuts’ BlackFriday Sale!

My Protein: Bringing this sense offestivity to India is Myprotein, theworld’s leader in nutrition products andfitness goods. Myprotein wants to fosterthis spirit of celebration in India byencouraging a guilt-free shopping spreethrough their site-wide promotionaloffers and unbelievable discounts on thebig day. It is sure to be the biggest end-of-year sale, with deals too good to passup on! Keeping in mind India’sdistinctive tastes, Myprotein hasconstantly kept things exciting byinnovating new and localised products.This November too is earmarked forsome incredible new releases. Their

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Mia by Tanishq: Mia byTanishq, one of India’s most

fashionable jewellery brands unveils anexclusive Black Friday sale on theoccasion of Thanksgiving and onset ofthe holiday season. Black Friday is justaround the corner and Mia is offering itscustomers exciting offers. Consumerscan now get Upto 25%* off valid on Miaproducts till November 29, 2020.

The offer is applicable on differentjewellery categories from daintyearrings, bracelets, finger rings to anassortment of neck wears and nosepins. To celebrate the Thanksgivingmonth with family and friendscustomers can indulge in gifting Mia’s14 Karat light-weight, fashionable andstylish gold and silver jewellery. Get yourhands on the best offers and shine withelegance.

Customers can also sport theirfavourite pieces from the latest festivecollection ‘Lyana’ and together createheart-warming moments.

HYDERABAD | SUNDAY | NOVEMBER 29, 2020 12

Current heartthrob actor Sundeep Kishan who is in hiselement while at work, nurtures young talent through his

production house. After the resounding success of NinuVeedani Nene, he has not looked back. Right from his

childhood, he has lived life largely on his terms, be it making acting his career against odds or shedding

14 kilos to belong rightly to a group of youngsters who are re-writing the rules of budget for the film

A1 Express that is already making waves.Riding the crest of popularity at the acme of his career,

Sundeep Kishan speaks to The Pioneer about his desire togive young talent a platform to grow in a conducive

atmosphere. In a free-wheeling conversation with K RAMYA SREE, the media-shy actor, a workaholic,

shares facets of his childhood that made him strong to thecore, influence of the three strong women in his early life,

and much more.

MBITIOUS EVEN AS A KID…

I was born in Chennai but most of my educationwas in Vizag and Guntur. Being a 90’s kid, I mustadmit I had the best childhood. I got the best ofeverything. I was a very mischievous child, but I

would describe myself as ambitious. I wasnever happy being a ‘regular’ child, Ialways wanted to do something dif-ferent and try something new.There is no sport that I haven’ttried. Also, I was always into dra-matics. I was into elocution,debates and would take part inall cultural activities in school.This kept me active. As a kid, Iwas more or less always intotrouble due to my mischief. If Iwanted to bunk classes and gowatch a movie, I would tellmy parents. There was notsingle time that I bunkedclasses without informingthem. There was never atime where I was notextraordinarily mis-chievous.

A

LOVE FOR CINEMA…

I was always fascinated by cine-ma. Even as a child, I wouldwatch three to four films a day.Also I would always prefer toact in school. Whenever youact, you are being someone elseand that’s the only chance for

you to get away from beingwho you are. It was always veryexciting to me. From Sai Babato superheroes, I donned everyrole and I always outper-formed. Acting, elocution anddebating speaking were theonly two things that I was atmy best and I won appreciation

every time I took part in them.I gradually gained confidencefrom my performances. I amblessed that I am good at a fewthings and I worked on themeven more. And now, I havemade a career out of mystrengths, which is very satisfying for me.

LIVING

LIFE ON

MY OWN

TERMS…

For a majorpart of my life, Ialways wanted tobe an actor, but fora brief period, Iwanted to be an IPSofficer. Perhaps thethought of becoming anIPS officer took root inmy head because of all thefilms I have watched. I com-

pleted one semester inEngineering but began

questioning myself ifthat was what I

wanted to be reallydoing with my life;it did not makesense to me. Later, Idid my BBA andMBA.

In a way, I have livedmy life on my own terms.

For most, it might not soundto be rebellious, but coming

from a typical Telugu family, par-ticularly with the kind of upbringingI got, it was very rebellious of quit-ting engineering, choosing BBA,while simultaneously working as an

assistant director and giving auditions.

A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE…

One of the most memorable experiences of my lifewas after Prasthanam. At that time, I had a lot of meet-ings in Mumbai. For me, being in Mumbai itself was big

deal. I was still living off my parents when I got aBollywood film offer. But going to Mumbai even for the

meetings was way too expensive for me. I would take anevening bus and reach Mumbai by the morning. I wouldthen go to a dormitory that charged about Rs 250 to Rs300 per day, get ready in the common washroom, latertake a coffee and request the café guy to keep my luggagesafe, then attend the meeting and return in the evening,take my luggage and return either to the dormitory or takethe bus back home. All this was because staying in a hotel wastoo expensive for me. The process itself was very interestingand beautiful. I’m glad I could experience all of this.

AUDITIONING FOR THREE YEARS…

My entry into the film industry was not easy; I had myshare of struggle. I had to audition for three years

before I bagged my first role. There were so manytimes that I was selected for a role and even got an

offer, but was let go later. Happy Days was onesuch film. There was a film for which I shot for

three days but it was shelved. Every role I gotwas after I auditioned. That three-year phase

was the most challenging in my career.These films were all by small time film-

makers, trying to make it big. During theinitial phase of my career, I worked with

people like Deva Katta and PraveenSattaru who come from a special

school of thought. Later, I workedwith a lot of new filmmakers and

with them, one gets to learnsomething new every day. I had

good hits and stunning lows.Now, my career has picked up

again from scratch withNinu Veedani Nene. This

phase of my career is themost exciting one. It

saw an all-time lowand then zoomed up

beautifully. For thefirst time in my

life, I put myeducation to

use. You willnow see a

completelydifferent

SundeepKishan.

A SATISFYING FILM…

A1 Express is the most satisfying film I havedone so far. The film is being shot with a bunchof youngsters. I’m the oldest one on set. It’s anextremely ambitious film in terms of budget andthe film is about sport — Hockey. Consideringwhere my career dipped to a point and I and myteam could rise again and pull this film off ishighly satisfying. I’ve shed 14 kilos for the film

and I’m enjoying the process. I don’t wantto talk about the struggles; I always wantto talk about the good things. Most recentemotional moment was during NinuVeeedani Nene. With no fault of ours, wehad to face a lot of hurdles. At some level

my managers, Seetharam and Siva,could manage everything. The entire

credit goes to them.

The major part of childhoodinfluence was my maternal grand-

mother Anantha Lakshmi garu, mymother, Kanakadurga, and her

elder sister, Padmalatha. Mybiggest support system to even get

my first photoshoot was the moneygiven to me by my grandmother.

When I had to get a better photo-shoot done, my pedhamma gave

me money without telling mymom. These three women very

strongly influenced me in my lifeand my sister, Mounica Naidu,

does so today.

THE THREE

WOMEN WHO

INFLUENCED ME…

What do you do in your leisure time: I’m eitherworking too much or just lying down. If I want to getaway from all this, I’ll visit a new city.

How do you describe yourself: A typical Taurian

Your favourite holiday destination: Europe

A city you wish to visit: Paris

Getaway with family: The Himalayas or Goa

How do you deal with anger: If I’m angry, I’mangry. But I don’t carry it for long time. I’m either oftwo extremities. Being with me is a pain and onlypeople who know me really well will understand me.

What are you most inspired by: Life

Person you admire the most: My dad

Favourite actor: Chiranjeevi garu, Robert Downey Jr

Your relationship status:

Very much single right now

Something in your bucket list: To open a restaurant,probably in every possible city in the two states andprovide good food at affordable rates.

Your biggest addiction: Visual content

A compliment people give you the most:

They really like my vibe.

RA

PID

FIR

E:

From left: Sister Mounica, father Ravi Prakash

Sundeep with his Pedhamma (extreme left), sister Mounica and mother Kanakadurga (extreme right)

Young Sundeep with his father

With uncles Chota K. Naidu (extreme right) and Shyam K. Naidu(extreme left) and father Ravi Prakash Naidu (second right)

DAD FREAKED OUT ABOUT MY ACTING CAREER…

My uncles — Chota K. Naidu and Shyam K. Naidu — were never a part of my growing up years. What I wanted to dohad nothing to do with what they were doing. My dad, Mr Ravi Prakash Naidu, runs his own business and mom is

also an employee. When I wanted to become an actor, my dad freaked out. This whole idea was very off for them.Even my uncles, who were my good friends, were against me being a part of this industry. That is when I joined

as an assistant to understand what goes into making a film. It takes a lot to understand the kind of lifestyle Ihave. I always have people around me. I work very differently and I’m very spontaneous with my decisions. For

a parent, all this is very scary but they understand and believe in me and I’m very blessed to have such a coolfamily. My mom still works. My sister too is highly educated. She did her Master’s from the UK and she is

working with Eros. I’m extremely proud of her. She is one of the associate producers with Eros. Till threemonths of joining her job, she didn’t tell anybody that she is my sister.