Urban Planning and Sustainable Development Emphasised at CII–IGBC Conference

 The conference organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry and the Indian Green Building Council, attended by representatives of over 25 organisations, was addressed, with a focus on sustainable urban development and planning.

While congratulating the new Chairman, Sekhar Reddy, for his earlier contributions as Secretary of the Hyderabad City Security Council, the need to decongest urbanisation and adopt better planning practices was highlighted.

Concerns were raised citing Delhi as an example of severe pollution challenges and Bengaluru as an example of traffic and transport constraints arising from inadequate planning. It was noted that Mumbai and Hyderabad, particularly the IT corridor, are heading in similar directions unless development is planned more effectively, including expansion towards eastern regions such as Uppal and Malkajgiri.

The role of the Indian Green Building Council was emphasised in coordinating with the government to promote green buildings, encourage the use of appropriate materials, and reduce pollution through stronger enforcement mechanisms.

Bonsai Exhibition Inaugurated, Highlights Art, Patience and Community Effort

 The three-day Bonsai exhibition at Kalinga Bhavan was inaugurated upon the invitation of former DGP Appa Rao, who was instrumental in introducing the bonsai technique to Hyderabad in 1983 following a six-month stay in Japan. The Friends Bonsai Society, which organised the event, has now grown to a strength of around 100 members.

Bonsai, the Japanese art of growing and shaping trees in small containers to resemble fully grown trees in nature, was showcased through a wide variety of forms and sizes. The exhibition highlighted the patience, nurturing, pruning, and attention required to cultivate such plants.

During the address, appreciation was expressed for all members, with special mention of the women participants, acknowledging their patience and care both in sustaining the art form and in contributing to the well-being of families and society.

Singles Title in 55+ Category Marks Return to Winning Form

 The +55 age category singles final of the HOTA Tennis Tournament witnessed an absorbing contest, where a strong challenge was faced from Neelkant Dambre, a well-known tennis player from Goa.

It was noted that a high level of fitness played a key role in sustaining performance over two sets, resulting in a 6–2, 6–3 victory for Mr.CV Anand.

Interviews Held for Director of Sainik Welfare Post After 18 Years

 After a gap of 18 years, interviews for the selection of the Director of Sainik Welfare for Telangana were conducted at the Secretariat, marking a significant step towards strengthening support systems for ex-servicemen.

It was noted that the process had faced delays due to vested interests attempting to stall the selection. Following the assumption of charge in the Home Department, it took nearly three months to secure the required permissions, issue the notification, and send call letters to eligible applicants.

The interview board comprised Secretaries from Home, Finance, and General Administration Departments, along with defence officers from the Kendriya Sainik Welfare Board. A total of around eight Brigadier-rank and 21 Colonel-rank retired officers of the Armed Forces participated in the process.

The Sainik Welfare Board caters to the welfare, services, and related issues of approximately 30,000 retired personnel from the Army, Navy, and Air Force in Telangana.

The interviews were conducted over the course of an entire day. Satisfaction was expressed at the completion of the process, with the expectation that it would provide renewed impetus to the welfare of ex-servicemen. The name of the selected Director will be announced after obtaining the necessary approvals.

E-Office System Inaugurated at Directorate of Prosecution, Performance Reviewed

 Mr.CV Anand visited the Directorate of Prosecution office at Lakdikapul to inaugurate the e-office system and review performance and issues pending with the government relating to the department.

Director Sambasiva Reddy made a detailed presentation on the functioning of the department, following which he interacted with officers and staff.

The Directorate of Prosecution deals with public prosecutors of all ranks who argue criminal cases in courts. It was noted that the new criminal laws require significant upgradation of the department, including facilities and systems.