The Central Government has released ₹1,668 crore towards pending wage payments for NREGA (MGNREGA) workers in Andhra Pradesh, bringing relief to thousands of rural laborers. With this fund infusion, arrears from May 15 to August 15 will be credited directly into workers' bank accounts.
According to officials, the state government had written to the Centre highlighting delays in wage disbursement. Responding promptly, the funds were sanctioned, ensuring that dues up to mid-August will be cleared within the next few days. However, an additional ₹137 crore is still required, which is expected to be released soon. Authorities assured that workers will start receiving the pending wages in their accounts over the next two to three days.
In another development, the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department signed an agreement with Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL), a subsidiary of EESL, to establish EV charging centers and battery-swapping stations across the state.
The initiative will cover major cities, highways, and tourist destinations. Officials said the project is part of the Mission LiFE program, which promotes clean energy adoption, solar-powered lighting, and public EV usage, including electric cycles. About 75 key focus areas have been identified to provide cost-effective services and boost eco-friendly tourism infrastructure.
On Sunday, the Andhra Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) conducted recruitment exams for Forest Beat Officer (FBO), Assistant Beat Officer (ABO), and Forest Section Officer posts.
FBO Exam: Out of 1,07,969 applicants, nearly 97,038 candidates appeared (attendance rate 89.87%).
Forest Section Officer Exam: Out of 17,824 applicants, 15,412 appeared (attendance rate 86.46%).
Exams were held across 13 districts, and officials reported smooth conduct.
Meanwhile, Vijayawada is set to host the Indian Handicrafts Exhibition from September 8 to 14. The event, organized by the Andhra Pradesh Handicrafts Development Corporation (Lepakshi) in collaboration with the Union Ministry of Textiles, will feature:
Gandhi Shilp Bazaar
Handicrafts Design Competition
The exhibition aims to promote local artisans, showcase traditional skills, and create market opportunities for handcrafted products. Organizers said the event would provide visitors a chance to explore a wide range of handmade items while supporting rural craft communities.