News

In Prakasam district’s Podili Mandal, the police carried out a surprise raid on a gang secretly involved in gambling in the fields near Egalapadu village. Acting on a tip-off, Podili SI Vemana and his team surrounded the camp and caught nine individuals red-handed while playing cards. During the raid, the police seized ₹62,500 in cash along with playing cards and other gambling materials from the spot. The arrested individuals were later taken to the Podili Police Station for further investigation. SI Vemana stated that strict action would be taken against those engaging in illegal gambling activities and warned that such operations disturb public peace and encourage anti-social behavior. He urged villagers to report such incidents immediately to the police to help maintain law and order in the region. The police have also intensified patrolling in rural areas to curb gambling, illicit liquor, and other unlawful activities in and around Podili.

On behalf of the Andhra Pradesh State Government, the ongoing welfare program aims to provide subsidized rice and essential commodities to families living below the poverty line. In this context, the distribution of new Smart Ration Cards in place of old ration cards began in Podili town on Saturday. The program was ceremoniously inaugurated under the supervision of Tahsildar Venkata Krishna Reddy at Shop No. 22 in the local Ammavari Shala premises. Speaking on the occasion, the Tahsildar mentioned that the new Smart Cards are designed with advanced digital security features, ensuring transparency and efficiency in the public distribution system. He added that beneficiaries can easily verify their entitlements and access ration supplies without any inconvenience. Local officials and volunteers participated in the event, assisting beneficiaries in linking their Aadhaar numbers and updating personal details. Citizens appreciated the government’s initiative, saying that the introduction of Smart Cards would help curb irregularities and bring greater accountability in ration distribution across Podili.

The Podili Police of Prakasam district organized a Cyber Awareness Program to educate the public about cybercrimes, online frauds, digital arrests, and online trading scams. The program was held at a local college ground under the supervision of Circle Inspector Venkateswara Rao and SI Vemana. It was conducted in the morning with the aim of spreading awareness among walkers and the general public about cyber safety. Speaking on the occasion, Circle Inspector Venkateswara Rao advised people to stay vigilant against the rising number of cybercrimes in the digital age. He urged citizens not to fall victim to online scams conducted through suspicious links, phone calls, or social media platforms. He also explained in detail about the LHMS mobile app, designed for women’s safety, and emphasized its importance in emergency situations. The app, he said, is a vital tool for ensuring quick help and protection for women in distress.

On Sunday, in Mangalagiri, the 16th Invitational Japan Shitoryu Karate Championship 2025 was successfully organized by Karate Master Prabhakar. Students trained under Karate Master Venu from Podili showcased outstanding talent and brought glory by winning several medals across various categories. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from young martial artists across the state, making it a grand platform to celebrate discipline, skill, and sportsmanship. Here’s the remarkable performance of the students from Podili:🥋 Sai Prateek (Blue Belt, Under 15): Silver in Kata, Bronze in Kumite🥋 S. Keerthika (Blue Belt, Under 12): Silver in Kata, Bronze in Kumite🥋 Vamsi (Under 12): Gold in Kata🥋 Prajul (Yellow Belt, Under 12): Silver in Kata🥋 Anshul (Yellow Belt, Under 14): Bronze in Kata, Silver in Kumite🥋 S.K. Ariz (Under 15): Gold in Kata, Gold in Kumite🥋 S.K. Rafiq (Yellow Belt, Under 18): Silver in Kata, Bronze in Kumite🥋 S.K. Sameer (Open Category): Silver in Kata, Bronze in Kumite These achievements highlight the growing popularity of martial arts in rural Andhra Pradesh and the dedication of both students and their coach. Master Venu expressed pride in his students’ performance, emphasizing that such victories inspire many young learners in Podili to pursue Karate with passion and discipline.

It is well known that due to the impact of Cyclone Montha, many farmers in several villages of Marripudi Mandal have suffered severe losses. On Thursday, State Minister Dola Bala Veeranjaneya Swamy personally inspected the affected crops. Speaking at a press conference held after visiting the crop fields, the Minister said —“I haven’t seen the lakes filled to this extent in the past twenty years. This time, the lakes are full up to their maximum water level. However, due to the cyclone, crops have been damaged in several areas. The government will take appropriate measures to ensure that farmers do not face losses. The government will also purchase discolored paddy. No one should worry,” he said.