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State-Wise Current Affairs
Andhra Pradesh Current Affairs 2020
AP Announced Renewable Energy Export Policy 2020
The State Government of Andhra Pradesh announced the Andhra Pradesh Renewable Energy Export
Policy 2020, which permits the sale of power to the other states of India. The policy will be in force
for the five years.
The policy aimed to utilize the unused potential and to attract private investments to boost the
economy and to generate additional revenue to the government.
To implement the projects the New and Renewable Energy Development Corporation of AP Limited
(NREDCAP), will be the nodal agency under the new export policy 2020.
The NREDCAP, will allocate the renewable energy resource potentials to the developers on a first
come first serve basis through online application.
The developers planning to set up energy export projects with manufacturing facilities will be given
priority.
The Export policy of 2020 facilitates the establishment of solar, wind and solar-wind hybrid projects
of capacity up to 120 Giga Watts(GW) and renewable energy equipment manufacturing facilities in
the state.
The power generated from these projects will be exported to other states. The power distribution
companies do not have any obligations to procure the power generated under this policy.
Andhra Pradesh launched Amma Vodi scheme
Andhra Pradesh CM has launched the flagship ‘Amma Vodi’ scheme to support lakhs of below poverty
line mothers or guardians to educate their children in Chittoor. It is the first-of-its-kind scheme in the
country, which is aimed at bringing significant changes in the education system of Andhra Pradesh.
The scheme aims at benefitting school students studying in classes I to XII. It includes both public and
private schools.
Under the scheme, these students belonging to Below Poverty Line will get Rs 15,000 per annum.
However, the guardian or mother of the child should ensure 75% attendance of the child.
The State Government has allocated Rs 6318 crores under the scheme. The funding aims at helping
lakhs of below poverty line mothers trying to educate their children. The amount is to be directly
transferred to the bank account of the beneficiaries.
The amount is to be transferred to the accounts of the mothers till the children complete their Class
12 education.
The Andhra Pradesh Government has allocated budget of Rs 14,000 crores to enable educational
institutions and revamp the older infrastructure. It has also adopted English as medium of instruction
in schools for class 1 to 6.
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1State-Wise Current Affairs
Andhra Pradesh Decentralisation and Equal Development of All Regions Bill, 2020
State Government of AP has passed the “Andhra Pradesh Decentralisation and Equal Development of
All Regions Bill”, 2020. The bill paves way for three capitals of the state.
The three capitals are Amaravati-legislative capital, Vishakhapatnam-the executive capital and
Kurnool-judicial capital. The three-capital system is being adopted by the government of Andhra
Pradesh in order to ensure equal development throughout the state.
This also aids in decentralization of government. The above cities were selected as capitals for their
strategic location to aid decentralization.
The cities were recommended by the committees namely B N Sri Krishna Committee, G N Rao
Committee and K Sivaramakrishnan Committee.
Andhra Pradesh to abolish Legislative Council
Andhra Pradesh cabinet has gave a node to abolish Legislative Council. It is to be noted that the
Legislative Council stalled two bills that were passed by the assembly. It includes AP Capital Region
Development Authority Repeal Bill and Decentralization bill.
Andhra Pradesh is one of the few states to have bicameral legislature. The states with legislative
council includes Bihar, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh and Telangana.
Why does the Legislative Council needed?
To act as a check on hasty actions by the popularly elected House and
To ensure that individuals who might not be cut out for the direct elections too are able to
contribute to the legislative process.
Article 169 of the constitution defines Legislative Council. As of November 2019, there are 6 states
with State Legislative Council.
The members of the State Legislative Council are selected in the following way
One-third are elected from the local bodies such as Gram Panchayat, municipalities and
district councils.
One-third are elected by members of State Legislative Assembly.
One-Sixth of the members are nominated by the governor
One-twelfth are graduates who have resided for three years in the state
One-twelfth are teaching professions.
Andhra Pradesh Unveiled New Industrial Development Policy 2020-23
Andhra Pradesh State Government has unveiled state’s new Industrial Development Policy 2020-23.
The policy aims at the holistic development of all areas including Industrial, commercial and
economic activities.
The policy includes steps that are being taken up by the state government to boost industrial growth
post the impact of COVID-19.
The government has identified industrial zoning as a key focus area to ensure planned industrial
development and provide a risk-free, investment-friendly environment for setting up and operating
industries in the state with minimal impact on the environment.
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2State-Wise Current Affairs
The major incentive a prospective investor gets, under the new policy, is reimbursement of
State Goods and Services Tax for five years (capped to Fixed Capital Investment) for medium,
large and mega industries linked to employment creation, the minister added.
The current lease and buy models for land allotment are being replaced with a composite
lease buy model, where an industrialist gets to purchase the land after successfully running
his unit for 10 years.
The thrust areas identified by the government, under the new industrial policy include food
processing, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, textiles, electronics, footwear and leather,
toys and furniture, petrochemicals, aerospace and defence, automobiles and components,
machinery, precision equipment and mineral-based industries.
India’s first Online Waste Exchange launched in Andhra Pradesh
‘Online waste exchange platform’ of Andhra Pradesh Environment Management Corporation
(APEMC) has been launched in the state. The digital platform was launched on the occasion
of World Environment Day for safe disposal of toxic wastes and promote recycling and reuse
of toxic wastes.
The online waste exchange programme was launched on the occasion of World Environment
day. The platform is to track, audit, scrutinize the waste and encourage proper utilization of
the waste.
The platform launched is to comply the principles of 6Rs namely Reuse, Recycle, Reduce,
Redesign, Refurbish and Remanufacture.
During the launch of the programme, it was announced that the AP Environment
Improvement Act, 2020 is to be enacted soon.
The Andhra Pradesh Environment Management Corporation or APEMC was set up to handle
industrial wastes. The Corporation will take over the responsibility of the online platform.
According to environment Rules and Regulations, the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control
Board is to make necessary changes in order to hand over the waste to the APEMC.
Disha police station to fight crimes against women and children
In Andhra Pradesh the special police staition has been set up under the AP Criminal Law
(Amendment) Bill, 2019 which, entire investigation has to be completed within 7 days and
trial within 14 days.
The Andhra Pradesh Government is to inaugurate 18 Disha Police Stations by the end of
February 2020. Every police station is to add 26 to 47 police officers.
The 18 Disha police stations will act as upgraded versions of existing women police stations.
The stations have been allocated fund of 30% of special allowance. The stations are
established under Disha act, 2019.
In December 2019, the Andhra Pradesh Government passed the Disha Bill, 2019. The bill aims
to complete investigation of cases related to crimes against women within 7 to 14 days. It also
prescribes death penalty under Section 376 of IPC (Indian Penal Code).
Also, the act punishes crimes against children with 10 to 14 years of imprisonment.
“Disha” is a symbolic name given to the 26-year-old veterinarian who was raped and
murdered on the outskirts of Hyderabad on the night of November 27.
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3State-Wise Current Affairs
Andhra Pradesh launched Jagananna Chedodu Scheme
Andhra Pradesh recently launched “Jagananna Chedodu” scheme to provide financial assistance to
barbers, tailors and washer men.
The Jagananna Chedodu scheme is to provide Rs 10,000 per person. It is to benefit 2.47 lakhs of
barbers, washer men and tailors. The State Government has transferred Rs 247 crores to the bank
accounts so far under the scheme.
The Andhra Pradesh Government had recently launched several schemes that benefitted people of
Andhra in a greater way.
This includes Rythu Bharosa, Pension Kanuka, Amma Vodi, Vidya Devena, Vahana Mitra, Vasathi
Deevena, Nethanna Nestham, Matsyakara Bharosa.
The State Government allocated Rs 4,000 crore under the Jagananna Vidya Deevena scheme. The
scheme provides full fees reimbursement to more than 14 lakhs college students.
The ReStart Programme of AP was also a huge success that boosted and supported the MSME sector
of the state.
3M Houses to be built under YSR Jagananna Colonies
Andhra Pradesh State Government will take up the construction of 3 Million houses under the YSR
Jagananna Colonies project after distributing the house sites to the beneficiaries on 8th July 2020.
Jagananna Colonies is part of the State Government’s Navratnalu- Pedalandariki Illu (houses for all
the poor) Program.
For the land acquisition of the colonies, the state government will bear around Rs 10,000 to Rs 11,000
crore. The house sites will be provided at Rs 1 to the selected white Ration Card beneficiaries.
The total expenditure for the project including the share of the Central Government is estimated at
RS 50,000 crore.
The project will be implemented in two phases with 15 lakh houses being constructed in each phase.
Construction for the first phase will begin on 28th August this year while the second phase
construction will begin from August 2021.
All necessary facilities will be provided in the colonies such as water, connecting roads, electricity,
etc. Each house will have a carpet area of 230 square feet. The cost of each house is estimated to be
around Rs 1.80 lakh.
The State Government has set a target for completion of the project by 2024.
Andhra Pradesh launched Activities of APCOS
Andhra Pradesh launched the activities of state-owned placement agency-Andhra Pradesh
Corporation for Outsourced Services (APCOS) through video conferencing on 3rd July 2020 ror
ensuring corruption-free job placements.
Some outsourcing staff working in the General Administration Department were handed over
appointment letters by the Chief Minister for the launch of the activities of APCOS.
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4State-Wise Current Affairs
The Chief Minister at the launch stated that with the establishment of APCOS, for hiring outsourcing
employees the corrupt practices will be eliminated.
As per the policy of the Andhra Pradesh Government of providing 50 reservation for minorities,
women, SCs, STs, and BCs, the same will also be applicable under APCOS.
On 18th October 2019, APCOS was incorporated as a Not-For-Profit Company under the Companies
Act 2013. APCOS was created with the aim of the Andhra Pradesh state government for bringing
transparency into governance by ending corruption and nepotism, as over the years, the complaints
in the recruitment process of outsourcing employees have significantly increased such as unpaid or
delayed salaries, brides demanded at various levels for getting the job, etc.
With the launch of APCOS, recruitment of outsourcing employees will now be made online in the state
of Andhra Pradesh. Also, the salaries of the outsourcing employees will now be directly transferred
into the bank accounts of the employees.
Rythu Dinotsavam celebrated in Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh celebrated the birth anniversary of Former and the 14th Chief Minister of Y.S
Rajasekhara Reddy as Rythu Dinotsavam meaning Farmer’s Day.
The day was first celebrated in 2019 when the current Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh Y.S Jagan
Mohan Reddy issued a government order designating the day as Farmer’s Day in Andhra Pradesh.
Yeduguri Sandinti Rajasekhara Reddy was elected as a member of Lok Sabha for 4 consecutive terms.
He served as the full term Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh from 2004 to 2009 and was re-elected
as the Chief Minister in the 2009 Assembly Election.
On 2nd September 2009, Y.S Rajasekhara Reddy died in a helicopter crash. In his career, he had never
lost in an election.
The former Chief Minister is known for various reforms that have made a long-lasting
transformational impact on the agricultural and health sector of the state, as on the first day of his
tenure in 2004, he launched a campaign project under which free electricity was provided to the
farmers in the state.
Some of the projects and reforms made by Y.S Rajasekhara Reddy during his tenure are Jalayagnam
water management program: To bring 8.2 million acres of land under irrigation, Indiramma Illu:
housing for rural poor, Pavala Vaddi program: to encourage small business and entrepreneurship of
rural women by providing loan at a subsidized rate, 108 and 104 helpline services were first
introduced in the state under his tenure, etc.
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the State Government will be launching new 412 ambulances in the
state and 656 new mobile medical units.
Online Registration of Crops ‘E-Cropping’ Began in Andhra Pradesh
A Comprehensive exercise for mapping of crops under each of the Rythu Bharosa Kendra (RBK) in
the state has begun in Andhra Pradesh from 13th July 2020. This will help in preparing the State
Government from crop planning to e-marketing of the crop.
The officials of the Andhra Pradesh Governments Revenue and Agricultural Department have been
tasked to jointly online register the details of crops sown by each farmer in the state.
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5State-Wise Current Affairs
Based on the data from the electronic crop registration, the Seeds for the crops will be provided or
supplied.
Also, this data from the online registration will help the State Government in schemes and initiatives
such as for providing interest-free loans, crop insurance, Rythu Bharosa, MSP- Minimum Support
Price, etc.
Under the online portal, details of Farmers such as the name of the farmer, details of his/her village,
bank details, contact number, area of the land for farming, and the crop that the farmer will be
cultivating will be asked from the farmer by the officials.
If the cultivator of the land is other than the landowner, then a CCRC- Crop Cultivation Registration
Certificate will be issued to the cultivator.
The land on which fish farming is done across the state will also be registered separately.
AP signed MoU with AMUL to help Women Self Help Groups
Andhra Pradesh state government has signed a MoU with AMUL to empower women selfhelp groups
and to encourage the cooperatives in government sectors.
AMUL will support the women self-help groups and provide opportunities to the dairy farming in
cooperatives and exposure to the world class infrastructure, technology and marketing to increase
the standard of living and selfreliance of women.
The partnership with AMUL will support the Self Help groups and the Farmers to get better prices
for their produce.
Andhra Pradesh produces around 4crore litres of milk per day and stands 4th in the production of
Milk with only 24% under the organised sector.
The State Government is providing around Rs.11000 crores per year to the 90 lakh women SHGs
under YSR Cheyutha and YSR Aasara.
Andhra Pradesh with a gateway to the south with Anantapur, Chittoor and Visakhapatnam
connecting other states, provides a potential to develop as a marketing hub.
1st online NISHTHA programme launched for 1200 Key Resources Persons of Andhra Pradesh
Union Human Resource Development Minister launched the first online National Initiative for School
Heads and Teachers Holistic Advancement (NISHTHA) programme for 1,200 key resources persons
of Andhra Pradesh.
It is to be noted that, originally NISHTHA was launched in face-to-face mode in August 2019, but
COVID-19 pandemic lockdown has affected the conduct of this programme, therefore, NCERT has
customised NISHTHA for an online mode through the DIKSHA and NISHTHA portals.
NISHTHA is organised at the elementary stage under Samagra Shiksha, a Centrally sponsored flagship
programme of Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) to improve learning outcomes and
holistic development of children
NISHTHA is the world’s largest teachers’ training programme of its kind. 33 states and union
territories launched this programme in collaboration under Samagra Shiksha.
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6State-Wise Current Affairs
In 29 states/union territories (UTs) the NCERT completed the NISHTHA training at state level.The
training programme at the state level in 4 States/UTs (Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, J&K and Bihar)
are still in progress.
A district-level teacher training programme has been initiated in 23 states/UTs.
In NISHTHA-face-to-face, first level training had been provided by the National Resource Group
(NRG) to the KRPs and state Resources Persons-Leadership (SRLs-L) identified by the states/UTs.
Then KRPs and SRPs-L had provided training directly to teachers at block level. In NISHTHA –online
also, KRPs will play a role of mentors for the teachers, who will take online NISHTHA training on
DIKSHA later on DIKSHA later on.
1st Indian State presented its Budget amid COVID-19
Andhra Pradesh state government presented the AP state budget for Rs 2.24 lakh crore for the FY20-
21. With this, AP became the first Indian state to convene its Legislative Assembly and Council which
will adopt a budget for FY21 amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
Apart from this, AP Governor Biswabhusan Harichandan addressed the Assembly through video
conference, which is also another first for the country.
The budget amount stated a decrease of 1.4% over FY19-20 due to major economic slowdown caused
by Covid-19. The revenue deficit estimated at Rs. 18, 434 crore and a fiscal deficit estimated at Rs 48,
295 crore.
In addition to the direct money transfer schemes implemented in the last fiscal, at least seven others
will be launched this year under the government’s flagship “Navaratnalu” programme.
A sum of Rs 37,659 crore will be spent under the head Direct Benefit Transfer for schemes like YSR
Pension Kanuka, YSR Aasara, Jagananna Amma Vodi, Jagananna Vidya Deevena, YSR Kapu Nestham,
YSR Jagananna Chedodu, Jagananna Thodu, YSR Cheyuta.
The same schemes, with a total outlay of Rs 37,618 crore, will also be implemented under various
sub-components like SC, ST, BC, Minority and Kapu welfare for the respective communities The
allocation for Kapu welfare is Rs 2,845 crore and Rs 23,406 crore for BC welfare. The government
allocated Rs 1,998 crore for minority welfare.
Andhra Pradesh launched ‘Jagananna Chedodu’ scheme
Andhra Pradesh launched the ‘Jagananna Chedodu’ scheme to provide financial assistance to tailors,
barbers and dhobis(washermen). Under the scheme, Rs 10,000 per person was provided to 2.47 lakh
washermen(82,347), barbers(38,767) and tailors(1,25,926).
In total Rs.247 crore was transferred to their bank accounts under financial liability so that bankers
cannot use the money to offset the loan repayment balances.
Rs 4,000 crore Jagananna Vidya Deevena scheme to provide full fees reimbursement to about 14 lakh
college students(including those in professional courses)
CMAPP(Comprehensive Monitoring of Agriculture, Price, and Procurement) mobile application to
monitor the agricultural needs of the farmers in the state.
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7State-Wise Current Affairs
‘ReStart’ a new programme, with an outlay of Rs 1,110 crores to support & boost the Micro, Small
and Medium Enterprise (MSME) sector in the state.
AP launched YSR Kapu Nestham Scheme for Women of Kapu
Andhra Pradesh launched the Kapu Nestham scheme by keeping his pre-poll promise to provide
financial support of Rs 75000/- for a period of 5 year (Rs 15000/- per annum) to women of Kapu
community.
The objective of the scheme is to financially empower Kapu women by enhancing their livelihood and
living standards with financial assistance.
Women in the age group of 45-60 belonging to Kapu Community are benefited with this scheme. In
a period of Five years(from March 2020 to March 2024) an eligible woman will get a sum of Rs 75000.
About 354 crore is distributed to over 2.36 lakh womens belonging to Kapu, Balija, Telaga and Ontari
communities and having rice cards.
The amount will be deposited in their bank accounts every month. Around 23 lakh people of the Kapu
community are benefited with Rs 4,470 crores by the YSR government under different schemes
(Amma Vodi, Vasati Deevena, Vidya Deevena, Vahana Mitra, Chedodu, Videsi Vidya Deevena and the
Kapu Nestham).
AP launched India’s 1st online waste management platform
Andhra Pradesh launched India’s 1st “online waste management platform” of Andhra Pradesh
Environment Management Corporation(APEMC) on the occasion of World Environment Day to
ensure 100% safe disposal of industrial toxic wastes.
The State Department of Environmental Management, APEMC, will take over responsibility of the
online platform. Also released the poster APEMC of e-platform highlighting its salient features, of the
portal. Key Point
APEMC has been set up as a government company to handle the industrial waste & will work in
coordination with Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) with a strong regulatory
framework to handle the waste from its generation till the end of its life cycle including sorting &
streamlining the waste as hazardous or non-hazardous or e-waste according to category,
scientifically disposing of the waste at the disposal centres.
As per the Environmental Rules and Regulations APPCB will make necessary provisions for
industries/organizations to hand over the waste generated by their units which cannot be treated
within their premises, to APEMC for management of waste
The platform will comply with the principles of 6 ‘R’s– Reuse, Reduce, Recycle, Redesign, Refurbish
and Remanufacture.
It ensures proper tracking, scrutiny and audit of the (industrial) waste & encourages the utilization
of wastes through co-processing
AP has many industries falling under red and orange categories, which generate significant quantities
of liquid waste, hazardous and non-hazardous solid waste and air pollutants.
Note– CM informed that a new legislation, the AP Environment Improvement Act, 2020, will be
enacted soon to safeguard the environment
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8State-Wise Current Affairs
Officials present in the launch– Environment and Forests Minister Balineni Srinivasa Reddy, Chief
Secretary Nilam Sawhney, Special Chief Secretary Neerabh Kumar Prasad, Pollution Control Board
Chairman B S S Prasad & membersecretary Vivek Yadav among others.
AP launched ₹1110 crores ‘ReStart’ to revive MSME sector
Andhra Pradesh state government launched Rs 1,110 crores ‘ReStart’ a new programme to support
& boost the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) sector in the State.
This initiative will benefit over 72,531 micro-enterprises, 24,252 small and 645 medium scale
industries. The state government will allocate Rs 200 crores as investment capital by providing loans
in partnership with the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) at a low-interest rate.
Release of Rs 905 crores of pending incentives to MSME units in two months, waive fixed demand
charges towards power for three months from April 20 to June 20 for MSMEs amounting to Rs 188
crores, provide Rs 200 crores working capital loans by creating a fund to meet their liquidity crisis.
As part of this scheme, the 1st instalment of Rs 450 crores was released which will benefit nearly
98,000 units that provide employment to more than 10 lakh people who were facing hardships due
to the lockdown.
The state has identified around 360 products to be purchased from the MSMEs, and its payments will
be cleared in 45 days.
Of the total purchases, almost 25% will be done from the micro and small enterprises, 4% from the
Scheduled Caste(SC) and Scheduled Tribes(ST) community enterprises, and 3% from women
entrepreneurs. Over 97,428 MSMEs are established in the state which employs about 10 lakh
workforce.
The collectors are directed to make a skill gap study with the industries and accordingly impart the
required skills among the youth through Skill Development Colleges & to lay special focus on the
sector and assign a Joint Collector exclusively for its development.
AP launched ‘CMAPP’ to monitor farming needs
The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh launched a mobile application ‘CMAPP (Comprehensive
Monitoring of Agriculture, Price, and Procurement)’ with the aim to monitor the agriculture needs of
the farmers in the state.
The mobile app showcases all data relating to the cost, procurement, and marketing facilities of the
farmers for their agriculture produce.
Respective officials of the state are entrusted to monitor & review village level agriculture conditions
including the sale and procurement of crops on a daily basis & all the joint collectors work on
agriculture department related will be trained through a quick session on the use of the app.
AP Agricultural Mission Vice-Chairman MVS Nagi Reddy & Special Chief Secretary of Agricultural
Department Poonam Malakondaiah were also present during the launch.
AP launched a mobile application to trace people buying medicines for fever, cold
The Medical and Health Department of Andhra Pradesh launched a mobile application to keep a track
of people buying medicines over-the-counter (OTC) for cough, cold and fever called ‘Covid Pharma’,
from medical stores across the state.
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9State-Wise Current Affairs
The pharmacies in the State is expected to download the app and register the details of persons,
including their mobile number, making OTC purchases of medicines for common ailments & even
those who buy medicines with a prescription and share with the health department for better
monitoring
Purpose– To monitor patients who experience any increase in cold & fever, which helps to trace easily
the persons with any symptoms of coronavirus and works as an additional precautionary measure
for regular sample testing simultaneously
According to Andhra Pradesh Pharmacy Council data, there are 68,000 registered pharmacists in the
State. AP now tops the number of sample tests conducted per million population in the country.
It has recruited 1,174 doctors on a temporary basis for a year to meet the emergency requirements
in view of the prevailing coronavirus pandemic, where most of these doctors will be posted in the
COVID-19 hotbed districts like Kurnool, Guntur, Krishna and Chittoor.
The Department of Health, Medical and Family Welfare have launched ‘COVID-19 AP’ mobile
application on the android platform through which one can request the authorities for COVID test.
Users can access the app by registering with a phone number & before requesting a test, they need
to provide information about symptoms, comorbid diseases and their location and village/ward
secretariat number.
They can get contact numbers of their local Asha workers, consult doctors online, go through the list
of COVID hospitals, quarantine centres, test centres and also register as a volunteer.
Andhra Pradesh launched ‘YSR Nirman’ online platform
Andhra Pradesh launched ‘YSR Nirman’ an online platform on April 6 to help various departments of
the State to procure cement from suppliers for government works such as Polavaram irrigation
project, housing and roads & also display availability of cement demand and supply on a realtime
basis.
The Government departments, district collectors, AP Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA)
and other suppliers will be given access to the portal with user IDs and Passwords, the District
Collector will forward the consolidated demand to APCMA and it will then allocate the suppliers
based on the quantity of cement.
It connects various stakeholders such as Cement Manufacturers Association, manufacturing
companies and government departments.
This portal will help reduce the waiting time of buyers & will also complete the project on time
without any delay & increases the accountability & transparency in the process.
The State held a meeting with the cement manufacturers in February & decided that all the
government departments should procure cement at Rs 225 for Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC) &
Rs 235 for Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) a bag including Goods and Service Tax (GST).
All those supplies will be made in red bags by the cement companies, to distinguish it from private
supplies and also to prevent misuse.
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10State-Wise Current Affairs
AP launched NIGHA app to control electoral malpractices
Andhra Pradesh launched the NIGHA application at Tadepalli, Andhra Pradesh to curbing the use of
money and alcohol in the upcoming local body elections & launched in addition to the measures taken
by State Election Commission & Police department in order to control the electoral malpractices.
The app was developed by Department of Panchayat Raj.
Citizens can download the NIGHA app on their smartphones and it allows the people to upload photos
and videos of distribution of money, alcohol or any other activity that violates MCC (Model Code of
Conduct).
The complaint registered through the app will be routed automatically to Central Control Room
(CCR) & information will be shared with the officials concerned, actions will be taken.
The State government had earlier brought an ordinance to make amendments to the AP Panchayat
Raj Act to take strict actions against flow of money and liquor in elections.
Irrespective of the party affiliation, if the candidate violates the MCC will be imprisoned to (2- 3 years)
and disqualification in the election.
PV Ramesh, Special Secretary to AP CM, Gopal Krishna Dwivedi, Panchayat Raj Principal Secretary
and Commissioner Girija Shankar were present during the occasion.
AP Govt made history with ‘Intivadhakey Pension’ scheme
The Andhra Pradesh state Government created a record with its ‘Intivadhakey Pension’ (Pension to
your Doorstep) Scheme by covering 94 % of about 60 lakh pensioners at their doorstep within a few
days.
The scheme was launched in 13 districts on February 1, 2020.AP is the 1st state in India to take up
such an initiative of Door delivery of pension service.
The AP government pays a monthly pension of Rs 2,250 to the elderly, widows, weavers, toddy
tappers, fishermen, single women and traditional cobblers and others, Rs 3,000 for disabled and Rs
5,000 to Rs.10,000 for CKDU(Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) of uncertain origin ) /Dialysis patients.
Almost 4 lakh volunteers were equipped with biometric information of the about 50,50,394 eligible
pensioners, and the amount was transferred to their bank accounts on a single day.
The state has released Rs. 1,320 crore for the month of February for this programme.
AP launched ‘Jagananna Vasthi Deevena’ scheme for Students
Andhra Pradesh launched an educational scheme called ‘Jagananna Vasthi Deevena (JVD)’ in
Vizianagaram district. Under the scheme, a financial assistance of Rs 2,300 crore will be provided to
the students pursuing ITI, polytechnic, undergraduate and post-graduate education courses to
handle hostel and mess expenditure.
This scheme will benefit 11,87,904 students,where the ITI (Industrial Training Institute) students
would get Rs 10,000 each, polytechnic students would get Rs 15,000 and under-graduates (UG) and
post-graduates (PG) Rs 20,000 each in 2 instalments, in February and July every year. Funds will be
added to the account of the beneficiary students’ mothers.
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11State-Wise Current Affairs
Beneficiary students’ will be provided with a unique bar-coded smart card, which contains complete
details of the student to get the complete benefits.
The scheme aims to improve the gross enrolment ratio in higher education (post-Intermediate),
which was only 23% in AP now.
Maternity benefit scheme ‘PMMVY’ credited to wrong account
According to “Transforming Nutrition in India: Poshan Abhiyan” report released by the NITI Aayog,
1 in 3 of Aadhaar-based payments for Centre’s maternity benefit scheme/ Pradhan Mantri Matru
Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) was credited to a wrong bank account.
As per the report, 28% of 31.29 lakh of all Aadhaar-based payments are going to different bank
accounts than what had been provided by the beneficiaries.
As per the data gathered until March 31, 2019, the report notes that 66% of the direct benefit
transfers for the PMMVY were based on Aadhaar.
According to a telephone survey of 5,525 beneficiaries, undertaken by the Ministry of Women and
Child Development (WCD), showed that just 60% of beneficiaries under the scheme were aware of
the receipt of the benefits and the bank accounts to which the money was remitted.
There have been records of long term delays with some beneficiaries having to wait for 2 years period
to get the benefit. They also facing problems in filling up the 32-page application form and providing
nine identity documents.
The report also ranked states & Union Territories to measure their readiness to execute the
programme across 4 themes: governance and institutional mechanism; strategy and planning;
service delivery and capacities; and programme activities and intervention coverage.
The States were classified into large and small categories for a better comparison. Among the 19 large
States, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh scored the top 3 ranks with the scheme
implementation score of over 70%. While, Among the 8 small States, Mizoram and Sikkim scored
above 75%. Similarly, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Chandigarh, and Daman and Diu scored above 75% &
got top 3 spot among 7 union Territories list.
The report stressed to simplify the documentation and operational rules to avoid delays in money
transfer & also proposed to rationalize the mandatory waiting period of 180 days before the second
installment is released as well as the compulsory birth certificate for the release of the 3rd
installment.
Andhra Pradesh launched E-Raksha Bandhan
Andhra Pradesh launched ‘E-Raksha Bandhan’, an online training programme on cybersecurity to
creating awareness among the public on cybercrimes across the State,
The programme has massive support of various dignitaries including, Crime Investigation
Department (CID), FM Radio, The Andhra Pradesh Police, Cyber Peace Foundation, Cyber Crime
Prevention against Women and Children (CCPWC), and other organisations for organizing,
advertising and creating mass awareness about the month-long online awareness programme.
Through ‘E-Raksha Bandhan’ as many as 1 lakh women, girls and the general public would be trained.
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12State-Wise Current Affairs
The participants will be trained through Essay writing, debates, quiz, webinars, workshops, and
slogan writing competitions which will be held every day on different topics from 11 a.m. to 12 noon
daily, until 31st August.
The telecast of all these events will be done on AP CID’s YouTube channel every-day starting at 11 in
the morning.
While gracing the occasion the CM of Andhra Pradesh listed out various other steps being taken by
the state government to prevent crime against women.
The CM praised Disha Police Stations and also mentioned the investigation of 167 cases relating to
crime against women has been completed and charge sheets have been filed in the courts.
The CM promoted the Disha APP and urged the victims to complain through the Disha App and in
Disha Police Stations on harassment and cybercrimes.
Andhra Pradesh launched YSR Cheyutha Scheme
The YSR Cheyutha Scheme is to be launched in Andhra Pradesh to empower women from minority
castes.
The scheme will provide financial benefit of Rs 75,000 to those women who come under the age of
45 to 60 years.
It aims at pension beneficiaries. The amount of Rs 75,000 is to be distributed in four equal
installments of Rs 18,750 each per year. The amounts are to be transferred to the bank accounts of
the beneficiaries.
The State Government has allocated Rs 4,500 crores to implement the scheme. The AP Government
will also launch the YSR Asara Scheme along with YSR Cheyutha Scheme
The scheme is to benefit 90 lakh women of self help group. Under the scheme, Rs 6,700 crores is to
be distributed in one year.
The State Government of Andhra Pradesh recently decided to extend financial assistance of YSR
Cheyutha to those availing social security pensions under the YSR Pension Kanuka. This will benefit
more than 8.21 lakh women from SC, ST, BC and minority communities.
Andhra Pradesh Cabinet cleared the Proposal for three capitals
Andhra Pradesh state Government has passed Andhra Pradesh Decentralization and Inclusive
development of All Regions Bill-2020 for the tri-capital system. The bill proposes to make
Visakhapatnam as the executive capital, Amaravati as the legislative capital and Kurnool as the
judicial capital of Andhra Pradesh.
The aim behind this bill is decentralised administration that will result in socioeconomic progress at
equal levels. Now the bill is presented before the legislative council.
The bill also provides for dividing AP into various zones and for establishing zonal planning and
development boards.
As part of the bill village and municipal ward secretariats system which has brought in October 2019
has got the statutory backing.
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13State-Wise Current Affairs
The state cabinet also decided to increase the ex-gratia paid to the farmers of Amaravati from
Rs.2,500 per month to Rs.5,000 per month.
The cabinet also approved the proposal of establishing the Amaravati Metropolitan Development
Authority (AMDA) in the place of AP Capital Regional Development Authority (APCRDA) by repealing
the Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA) Act.
Andhra Pradesh launched Jagananna Amma Vodi scheme
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Yeduguri Sandinti Jaganmohan Reddy launched his government’s
flagship programme ‘Jagananna Amma Vodi’ scheme in Chittoor, AP. The scheme is to support lakhs
of poor and needy mothers to educate their children.
Rs.6318 crore has been released for the benefit of around 43 lakh mothers, under the scheme to
educate their 82 lakh children around 70 kms in the state this year.
An annual financial assistance to the tune of Rs.15,000 credited into the accounts of indigent mothers
to educate their children.
The Jagananna Amma Vodi scheme is a first of its kind in the country to bring about historical changes
in the education system of the state of Andhra Pradesh.
The Government determined to revamp the infrastructure in the govt. educational institutions
As a part with an annual allocated budget of Rs.14,000 crore, it would take-up modernization works
in 45,000 government schools, 471 junior colleges, 148 degree colleges and hostels in a phased
manner.
An amount of Rs.360 crore are alloted for mid day meal scheme in government schools to enhance
the quality of food with modification daily.
Chief Minister (CM) also declared free reimbursement to all SC, ST, BC, EBC, Kapu, differently abled,
minority and economically poor students for pursuing degree, post-graduation, polytechnic and
engineering courses in the state.
Andhra Pradesh cabinet approved proposal to abolish legislative council
Andhra Pradesh cabinet has approved the abolition of the legislative council which the government
feels is a major hurdle for passing crucial bills.
This approval came after AP government failed to pass 2 important bills (Andhra Pradesh
Decentralization and Inclusive development of All Regions Bill-2020 for the tri-capital system & and
the AP Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA) Act (Repeal) Bill) in the upper house of the
legislature.
The bills states the government’s plan of having 3 different capitals for the state- Legislative,
Visakhapatnam as the executive capital, Amaravati as the legislative capital and Kurnool as the
judicial capital.
The Legislative Council is the upper house in the state legislature. Similar to the Rajya Sabha, the
council is a permanent house, which means that it cannot be dissolved. Only the state legislative
assembly can be dissolved.
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14State-Wise Current Affairs
AP’s Legislative Council has a total of 58 members and opposite Chandrababu Naidu’s party has a
majority with 28 members. The State Government of Assam was the 1st to abolish its state legislative
council in 1947.
Andhra Pradesh to host 14th Global healthcare summit in 2021
The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) is set to organize a 3-days long 14th
Global Healthcare Summit (GHS) in Visakhapatnam,Andhra Pradesh(AP) from January 3, 2021 for
the 1st time.
Around 500 doctors from the United States of America (USA), Australia, Britain and other countries
expected to participate in the summit, which will focus on various communicable and non-
communicable diseases, public health hazards, eradication of tuberculosis, preventing maternal
mortality, control of Hepatitis B etc.
Over the past few years, AAPI has been collaborating with several professional medical associations
& made key role in addressing diabetes with the launch of Sevak programme and CPR-AED (Proper
cardiopulmonary resuscitation-automated external defibrillator) training
UP topped in NITI Aayog’s Aspirational district ranking
NITI Aayog has released the ranking of Aspirational Districts of the country for the month of
December 2019. Chandauli district of Uttar Pradesh (UP) has topped the list of aspiring districts in
December 2019 with the score of 57.6.
It was followed by Balangir district of Odisha in 2nd (53.9) and YSR district (formerly known as
Kadapa District) of Andhra Pradesh in 3rd place (65.2).
The ranking is based on the progress made in 5 development areas in 112 aspirational districts across
India in December 2019. The rankings focus on progress in Health and nutrition, education,
agriculture and water resources, financial inclusion& skill development and Basic infrastructure.
The Aspirational District Program was launched in January 2018. Aspirational districts are ranked
every month. This includes districts with relatively little progress in important social sectors.
Visakhapatnam to host naval exercise ‘MILAN’
The Vishakapatnam city of Andhra Pradesh will host International naval exercise ‘MILAN’ in March
2020. The theme of the exercise for the year 2020 is ‘Synergy Across the Seas’.
Milan exercise which will be hosted by Eastern Naval Command (ENC) aims to enhance professional
interaction between foreign navies and also make use of the best practices in the maritime domain.
41 navies of different countries were invited so far, of which 30 navies have confirmed their
participation in MILAN 2020.
Visakhapatnam previously hosted International Fleet Review (IFR) in February 2016.
Andhra Pradesh flagged off India’s ‘first fruit train’ with bananas
India’s first of its kind fruit train was launched from Tadipatri Railway Station in Anantapur district
& from Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh. This is the first time an entire train carrying a load of 980
metric tonnes of locally grown bananas which has been sent to the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust
(JNP)in Mumbai, Maharashtra
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15State-Wise Current Affairs
The bananas will be exported under the brand name ‘Happy Bananas’. Guntakal Railway division(is
one of the four divisions of South Coast Railway zone of the Indian Railways) has loaded bananas for
export to West Asian countries from Tadipatri at very first time.
Farmers from Putlur region in Anantapur and Pulivendula in Kadapa district of AP will be exporting
‘Green Cavendish’ bananas to international markets.
The dispatch of first shipment was done by Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export
Development Authority(APEDA), along with AP govt and one of the largest member exporters of
banana.
The train was formally flagged off by Container Corporation of India Ltd. (CONCOR) Chief General
Manager (CGM) D. Satyanarayana, A.P Horticulture Commissioner Chiranjiv Chaudhary; Desai Fruits
Venture Founder Ajit Desai and Guntakal Divisional Railway Manager Alok Tiwari in presence of
Agriculture Minister Kurasala Kannababu.
YSR Pension Kanuka doorstep pension scheme launched in AP
Andhra Pradesh state government has launched a doorstep pension delivery scheme named ‘YSR
Pension Kanuka’. Under the scheme various welfare pensions will be delivered to the old age
pensioners.
The old age pensioners age has also been reduced from 65 to 60 years.
The disabled pensions (DP) will be Rs. 3000 per month whereas the pension amount for CKDU
(Chronic kidney disease of unknown)/dialysis pensions will be Rs. 5,000-Rs. 10,000 per month.
The beneficiaries will be delivered with the pension services through volunteers equipped with
smartphones.
The number of beneficiaries will increase to 54.64 lakh by 2020 after the reduction of the age limit
for pensioners.
It is also to be noted that out of Rs. 15, 675.20 crores earmarked by govt for the programme,
Rs.1320.14 crore has already been released.
AP launched Nadu-Nedu scheme for modernizing hospitals
Andhra Pradesh launched the Nadu-Nedu scheme at STBC ground, Kurnool, AP. An amount of Rs
15,337 crore has been allocated to modernise all government hospitals in 3 years.
The Government hospitals will be constructed or modernized with the highest Indian standard-
Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS).
The scheme is developed based upon 3 phases
Phase 1: The govt has allocated Rs. 1,129 crore for the 1st phase.
Phase 2: The govt has allocated Rs 1,212 crores & Rs 700 crores to Area Hospitals.
Phase 3: In third phase sum of Rs 12,300 crore have been allocated for constructing new
hospitals with increased number of doctors & nurses in the state due to lack of experienced
doctors.
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16State-Wise Current Affairs
In the 1st phase of YSR Kanti Velugu, 66 lakh school children got free eye check-up by 60,000 staff. In
the 2nd phase, 500 experts identified 4,36,000 lakh children identified for further which 56,88,420
elderly would get free eye screening across the state.
AP ranked 1st in the country for overall implementation of POSHAN Abhiyaan
Andhra Pradesh ranked 1st in the country for overall implementation of POSHAN Abhiyaan as per
September 2019 progress report of NITI Aayog, “Transforming Nutrition in India: POSHAN
Abhiyaan”.
The 2nd anniversary of POSHAN Abhiyaan is recognized by celebrating Poshan Pakhwada from 8th-
22nd March 2020.
Large State (19)-AP, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttaranchal, Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Tamil
Nadu, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Rajasthan ,Bihar ,Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Telangana, Jammu
& Kashmir, Karnataka, Assam, Kerala.
Small State (8)- Mizoram, Sikkim, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Manipur, Goa.
iii.Union Territory(7)- Dadra & Nagar Haveli,Chandigarh, Daman & Diu,Puducherry, Andaman &
Nicobar, Delhi, Lakshadweep.
As part of the programme it also trained all Angan Wadi Workers on modules created based on
lifecycle approach where 1st 1000 days of life, with the support of incremental learning Approach
(ILA)& has given 55,607smartphones to them, to improve delivery service & to report day to day
actions, as well as to council the target.
AP to purchase ‘Portable Multi-feed Oxygen Manifold’
Andhra Pradesh state government has proposed to buy a novel contraption, ‘Portable Multi-feed
Oxygen Manifold (MOM)’ to address the need for oxygen supply to coronavirus patients. It is
developed by Personnel of the Naval Dockyard Visakhapatnam (NDV).
It is designed using a 6-way radial header fitted to a single cylinder to deliver oxygen to 6 patients
simultaneously and enables critical care management for a large number of Covid-19 patients with
limited resources. At first, the Navy offered few MOMs to AP at free-of-cost.
The preliminary trials were conducted at MI Room at NDV, followed by rapid trials at the Naval
Hospital INHS Kalyani, where it was successfully installed within 30 minutes
After successful trials, NDV began the production of 10 portable MOMs with two 6-way radial headers
capable of meeting 120 patients at a makeshift location.
The centre is also interested in MOM & also has conducted enquiries with NDV officials for its
production & use.
About 25 lakh poor in AP to get house sites
The Andhra Pradesh Government has issued a modified set of guidelines for the distribution of 25
lakh house sites to urban and rural poor under the Navaratnalu- Pedalandariki Illu programme Apart
from getting necessary approvals under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), It has been working
with Housing And Urban Development Corporation (HUDCO) and other organizations to secure
loans.
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17State-Wise Current Affairs
The beneficiaries with white ration cards will be allotted house sites at a concessional rate of Rs 1 &
a sum of Rs 20 will be charged.
The beneficiaries were noted that the site should only be used for constructing houses & the title
deeds will be in the form of conveyance deeds which contain security features like photographs,
thumb impressions, signatures of parties along with their details in addition to watermarks and
emblems etc. on the stamp papers.
The sale of vacant home sites is prohibited, but the beneficiaries after the construction of houses and
occupying them for at least 5 years can transfer if there is any need to meet the conditions laid down
by the banks and financial institutions.
AP has postponed the distribution of sites to April 14, 2020 due to COVID-19, earlier it was scheduled
on March 25, 2020 (Ugadi).
AP re-launched zero interest loan scheme for Women SHGs
Andhra Pradesh re-launched the zero interest loan scheme for Women Self-Help Groups by releasing
a sum of Rs 1,400 crores to 8.78 lakh SHGs (to benefit about 91 lakh members) for the welfare of
women.
Each SHG will receive a sum ranging from Rs 20,000 to Rs 40,000 towards the interest component
on their loans.
Currently SHG are securing loans from banks at an interest rate of 7 to 13%.
The State will also distribute house-sites to over 27 lakh women on July 8 as the programme got
postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The zero interest scheme was first launched by Former Chief Minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy in the
united Andhra Pradesh in 2011, under which the state government borne the interest burden on
loans extended to the women SHGs.
But, after the state bifurcation, the Chandrababu Naidu-led government stalled the scheme in 2016-
17. Former CM YS Rajasekhara Reddy introduced the ‘Pavala Vaddi’ (interest at 25 paise) scheme
when the interest on SHG loans was about Rs 1, & later the scheme was modified to offer interest-
free loans.
AP launched fee reimbursement scheme for students
Andhra Pradesh state government launched a scheme Jagananna Vidya Deevena with an outlay of Rs
4,000 crore to provide full fees reimbursement to about 14 lakh college students, including those in
professional courses.
AP also released pending due of Rs 1,880 crore during the previous Telugu Desam Party (TDP)
government. The amount has been directly credited into the accounts of the students’ mothers.
The CM also launched a helpline number, 1902, for parents of the students to lodge a complaint if the
college management does not provide quality education or better facilities to their children.
Objective of the scheme are to prove help to the financially weak students who want to study but
unable to do so because of lack of finance and promote Higher education in the state and encourage
the youngsters for further education.
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18State-Wise Current Affairs
AP govt formed 5-member panel to probe Vizag gas leak
Andhra Pradesh state government has formed a 5-member high-powered committee led by Neerabh
Kumar Prasad to probe into the causes behind the leakage of styrene gas from the LG Polymers India
Ltd located at RR Venkatapuram in Visakhapatnam.
The panel required to submit its final report within one month.
The gas leak had claimed 12 lives and left more than 200 people ill after they inhaled the styrene gas.
The terms of reference of the committee includes, It will enquire into the cause for the leakage
including the possible failure in the firm’s adoption of safety protocols.
It will look into the long-term effects of the gas leakage on the surrounding villages. It also asked to
suggest action to be taken against the industrial unit in case of any carelessness that led to gas
leakage.
In addition, it will suggest measures to be taken by industry units, including safety norms to prevent
such accident in the future, and in case, if any observations and suggestions, it will be added in the
report.
The state Government asked AP Pollution Control Board (APPCB) to provide assistance to the
committee in preparing the report.
Other members of the panel includes Karikal Valaven, Special Chief Secretary (Industries), Vinay
Chand (Visakhapatnam district collector), RK Meena (Visakhapatnam Commissioner of Police) as
members and Vivek Yadav (Member Secretary, AP Pollution Control Board) as member convenor.
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