For the past couple of years, Hyderabad’s House of Happiness (HOH) has been the go-to destination for those seeking imported chocolates, chips, juices, and unique treats. A visit to HOH once promised shelves packed with global favorites, allowing customers to indulge in exclusive products not easily found elsewhere. 

But today, the store looks different. The bustling store once filled to the brim with global brands now holds significantly emptier shelves, a visual testament to owner Ameen Mirza’s decision to respond to shifting consumer demands and values.

House Of Happiness’ ethical shift

As the conflict in Gaza stirred a call for boycott worldwide, Ameen observed a shift in consumer sentiment. “Since October 2023, around 40% of our customers are actively boycotting certain brands,” he says.

This consumer trend has altered his sourcing choices. Previously, he collaborated with both Middle Eastern and European distributors to stock a diverse array of international products. Now, he has streamlined his focus solely on Middle Eastern suppliers, allowing him to maintain a selection of beloved chocolates while upholding this ethical stance. 

“Consumer boycotts, coupled with my own conscience, shaped this decision,” Ameen shared. “I realized that my business needed to reflect values that resonate with our community, and this went beyond just offering popular products.”

Among the popular items now available at House of Happiiness are Snickers, Bounty, KitKat, Twix, and Galaxy, all sourced from Middle Eastern distributors. Additionally, Ameen has started stocking chocolates from Ukraine, further diversifying his offerings. However, this new direction meant parting ways with brands that had once been staples in his inventory. Notable products that Ameen has discontinued include Nido, Cheetos, and premium Swiss chocolates like Godiva, as he couldn’t find suitable Middle Eastern alternatives.

Crafting a new path of artisanal chocolates

One of the most exciting changes to emerge from this shift has been the launch of House of Happiness’ own line of artisanal chocolates. Crafted with premium cocoa beans sourced directly from Ghana, these chocolates offer a luxurious alternative to imported brands. Ameen personally oversees the creation process, ensuring that each batch meets his high standards for taste and quality.

The chocolate business is still relatively new for House of Happiness, but it is already experiencing significant success. One standout product has been their version of the viral Dubai Kunafa Chocolate, and Ameen plans to introduce more such chocolates. “While our chocolates our handmade, the cocoa beans from Ghana give them the taste of premium brands like Galaxy Jewels or Lindt but at a relatively affordable price,” he says. Additionally, each chocolate is carefully packaged and presented giving it a luxurious touch.

As Ameen and his team experiment with new flavors, the shop’s offerings continue to grow. In addition to chocolates, House of Happiness has ventured into baking, offering decadent brownies, cheesecakes, cakes, and more.

Adapting to shifting consumer dynamics

As per Kantar’s Sustainability Sector Index 2023, 44 percent of Indian consumers prefer brands that align with their values, particularly on social issues. This consumer behavior illustrates a growing demand for brands that not only offer quality products but also engage in ethical practices that resonate with their audience.

By aligning his business practices with the values of those who support the boycott, Ameen has fortified his brand’s identity, creating a space where customers feel their choices matter.

Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News, Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS.

Hyderabad: The Congress party has named Telangana chief minister A Revanth Reddy and deputy CM Bhatti Vikramarka as star campaigners for the upcoming Maharashtra and Jharkhand Assembly elections.

The Congress high command released the campaign list, according to which Reddy is slated to lead rallies in Maharashtra, while Bhatti is set to campaign in Jharkhand. While the Telangana chief minister will campaign for the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, which includes Congress, the Sharad Pawar faction of the NCP, and the Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction of Shiv Sena.

Vikramarka will campaign in Jharkhand for candidates from INDIA bloc representing Congress, JMM, RJD, and Left parties. The Telangana chief minister and deputy chief minister are the only Congress star campaigners from Telangana.

Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News, Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS.

The ritual of relishing Subhan Bakery’s Osmania biscuit with a cup of Irani Chai is a shared experience for every Hyderabadi, just as packing Karachi Bakery’s beloved Fruit biscuit for every trip abroad. It can be agreed that these two varieties have put Hyderabad on the global food map.

Yet, they hardly represent the rich biscuit culture that the City of Nizams has to offer. 

“According to me, Hyderabad’s identity lies in its biscuits. However, now when we think of the city, Osmania and Fruit are the only ones that come to mind. In reality, there have been several essential varieties that once defined our bakeries,” says Muzafar Khan, third-generation owner of Rose Bakery. 

The forgotten treasures

Exploring beyond the popular, Hyderabad’s bakeries are filled with varieties that tell stories of the city’s diverse flavors and culinary heritage. 

“When my grandfather Mohd Yaseen Khan opened this bakery in 1951, there were only five biscuits that were most prevalent in Hyderabad. The topmost was the Osmania biscuit and the other four were Khara Biscuit, Chand Biscuit, Fine Biscuit, and Tie Biscuit. These biscuits were so popular that no breakfast, tea time, or weddings were complete without them,” Muzafar explains to Siasat.com. 

Kicking off the list is Chand Biscuit– named after its crescent moon shape. While some people still rave about it, its craze can be confirmed by any 90s kid. Characterized by a mild sweetness and a light, crumbly texture, these biscuits are often baked with a hint of vanilla or milk, giving them a subtle, comforting flavor.  

Next is the Fine Biscuit, another Hyderabadi treat with a long-standing legacy in the city’s bakeries. Known for its flaky, airy texture, Fine Biscuit is crafted through a labor-intensive process that involves layering thin sheets of dough, which creates its distinctive lightness. This delicate biscuit has a caramelized, slightly crispy crust that pairs beautifully with Irani chai, as it softens when dipped, adding a mildly sweet flavor to the tea. 

One of the most underrated biscuits is the Khara Biscuit, which contribute to the city’s tea culture with its unique taste. These savory biscuits are made from a simple mix of flour, butter, and a blend of spices, often including cumin or sesame seeds, contrasting nicely with the sweet notes of chai. 

Finally, we have the Tie Biscuit, a delightful treat known for its unique bow-tie shape. These biscuits have a slightly hard, savory texture, making them an excellent accompaniment to a cup of tea, especially Irani chai. Their light, feathery quality sets them apart from the sweeter biscuits and offers a satisfying crunch that is both comforting and enjoyable.

Will Hyderabad come back to these gems?

In today’s world, where Instagram trends shape what people like, it’s hard to say if traditional biscuits from Hyderabad will make a comeback.

“Before, we had a strong demand for all these biscuits, but now it seems like only Osmania biscuits are popular,” says Muzafar. “Social media has changed how quickly people lose interest; they want something new every few years. Many traditional biscuits are vanishing from bakeries in Hyderabad, and only a few old bakeries still make them the old-fashioned way. I’m worried that in a couple of decades, they might be gone for good.”

This concern highlights the challenge of keeping old food traditions alive in a fast-changing world. The real question is whether people will rediscover and embrace these cherished treats before they fade away.

Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News, Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS.

Hyderabad: Days after the task force of the food safety department of Telangana raided a Zomato warehouse in Hyderabad and found mushrooms packaged with future dates of manufacturing, the company’s CEO Deepinder Goyal, on Monday, November 4, issued a clarification on X, claiming that was a ‘manual printing error’, from the vendor’s side.

Zomato chief claims mushrooms were rejected

Contrary to the findings by the state’s food and safety department, Zomato’s CEO Deepinder Goyal issued a clarification that the mushrooms found during the raid were already identified by the warehouse staff and were rejected by them during a quality check while it was delivered at the facility.

He said on his X post, that the future printing date was not usual and “was due to a manual typing error on the vendor’s side.”

Stressing their high-quality standards, the Zomato CEO said that the company that supplied faulty mushroom packages has been delisted from their platform. The CEO added that those were the only items that were found to be faulty among inventory worth crores, in the warehouse.

The Zomato chief also claimed that the inspection resulted in the warehouse being given an A+ by the officials, for achieving the highest benchmark set by the food safety department.

He also took a dig at the controversy that followed the incident, commenting “Maybe some people benefit from the virality which they get at the expense of pulling down the Zomato brand.”

Mushrooms found on Oct 29 with DOM on Oct 30

On October 29, the authorities raided Zomato’s B2B supply chain solution Hyperpure’s warehouse in Kukatpally, Hyderabad. During the raids, the officials found 18 kg of mushroom packets printed with the manufacturing date as the next day of the raids (October 30). As the news went out, Zomato faced backlash on social media platforms over the issue.

Inspectors had also observed that the warehouse was disorganised and unhygienic. Workers were not wearing essential protective gear, such as gloves, headgear, and aprons at the time of the raids, and the food handlers were not maintaining medical fitness certificates, that is mandatory for Food and Beverages F&B establishments in Telangana.

The task force had also found shortfalls in insect proofing, and finding houseflies on the premises.

Netizens react to Goyal’s post

Deepinder Goyal’s X post was received by netizens including online food enthusiasts, with some terming the Zomato chief’s clarification as ‘minimizing the issue’.

Another top reply to the post questioned why the items were not discarded before the inspection if they were already found by the warehouse staff to be faulty.

Another netizen commented having future packaging dates is not unusual, as vendors allegedly do this regularly to “cheat the customers”.

While Deepinder Goyal drew criticism for not ‘apologising’ over the issue, netizens appreciated him for directly addressing the issue and making a public statement about it.

Fake ‘analogue paneer’ on Hyperpure

Meanwhile, other netizens raised a different issue from Zomato’s Hyperpure, in which the platform was recently selling “analogue paneer”, or fake paneer, which is not made from traditional methods and ingredients but is artificially made by mixing vegetable oil and skimmed milk.

Paneer is made solely from milk and is expensive, the fake paneer product with cheaper ingredients is largely used by restaurants to reduce their expenses. The morality of Zomato selling them on their platform was questioned by netizens, as a response to Goyal’s statement over faulty mushrooms.

Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News, Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS.

Hyderabad: The cybercrime unit of the Hyderabad police on November 3 refunded Rs 1.05 crore to a man who lost the amount to an investment fraud.

The victim, who is a private employee reported that the fraudsters enticed him to invest the money for better returns. Believing the accused, the man transferred Rs 1,22,26,205 to a bank account provided to him.

The cybercrime unit registered a case under sections 66(C), 66(D) of the IT Act, and sections 319(2), 318(4), 338, 336(3), and 340(2) of the Indian Penal Code. Notices were issued to bank officials, requested the freezing of the fraudulent accounts, and guided the complainant in filing a petition in court to reclaim the withheld funds.

Shortly thereafter, court orders were obtained, authorizing the return of Rs 1,05, 00,000.

Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News, Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS.

Hyderabad: Telangana chief minister Revanth Reddy on Monday, November 4, directed designated special officers to take necessary steps to complete paddy procurement in the state.

The state government has appointed various IAS officers with additional responsibilities to oversee the paddy procurement process and conduct efficient implementation of important government schemes and development programs for the farmers.

The IAS officers have been delegated regionally based on the old districts of the state. The officers for each region are:

• Krishna Aditya – Adilabad, Nirmal, Komaram Bheem Asifabad and Mancherial districts.
• RV Karnan – Karimnagar, Jagtyal, Peddapalli, Rajanna Sircilla districts
• Anita Ramachandran – Nalgonda, Yadadri Bhongiri , Suryapet districts
• Dr. A Sharat – Nizamabad and Kamareddy districts
• D. Divya – Rangareddy, Vikarabad and Medchal Malkajgiri districts
• Ravi – Mahbubnagar, Narayanapet, Wanaparthy, Jogulamba Gadwal and Nagarkurnool districts
• T. Vinaya Krishna Reddy – Warangal, Hanmakonda, Jangaon, Jayashankar Bhupalpally, Mulugu and Mahabubabad Districts
• Harichandana Dasari – Medak, Sangareddy and Siddipet districts
• K. Surendra Mohan – Khammam and Bhadradri Kothagudem districts

CM Revanth Reddy directed the officials to speed up paddy procurement by conducting field visits at the purchase centers, and address as well as resolve any grievances of the farmers.

Rs 500 bonus per quintal for fine paddy

State agriculture minister Uttam Kumar Reddy on Sunday said that the government will provide a Rs 500 bonus per quintal for fine paddy in addition to the minimum support price by the Union government.

The minister also said the state achieved a record paddy production of 150 lakh metric tonnes and that the state government has implemented extensive procurement measures to support the state’s paddy cultivators.

Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News, Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS.

Hyderabad: College hostel students across Hyderabad held rallies and gatherings on Sunday to thank Telangana chief minister Revanth Reddy for raising the monthly mess allowances in BC, SC, ST, minority, and gurukula hostels. The increase addresses long-standing demands to improve students’ living conditions and meals.

Hundreds of students from Backward Class (BC) and Scheduled Class (SC) college hostels joined a rally at BC Bhavan to celebrate the occasion. National BC Welfare Association President R Krishnaiah, who spoke at the event, noted that students had organized 390 protests and rallies over the past four years, pushing for this hike in mess charges.

“We’re grateful that the current government responded to our sustained efforts and increased mess allowances for SC, ST, BC, and gurukula students. We extend our thanks to CM Revanth Reddy and Deputy CM Bhatti Vikramarka for this vital change,” Krishnaiah said. He added that the increased support will benefit around 765,000 students in gurukulas and hostels across Telangana.

The new rates represent a significant boost: mess charges for college hostel students are up from Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,100 per month; for students in grades 3 to 7 from Rs 900 to Rs 1,330; and for students in grades 8 to 10 from Rs 1,100 to Rs 1,540. Students also expressed hope for further improvements in hostel facilities, including the addition of nutritious meal plans.

Krishnaiah also highlighted the urgent need for dedicated hostel buildings. Currently, 295 BC college hostels and 321 BC gurukula schools lack their own facilities, relying instead on rented private accommodations, sometimes with questionable allocations. “While thousands of crores are spent on flyovers and other infrastructure in upscale areas like Madhapur, Kondapur, Gachibowli, and Kokapet, our future IAS, IPS officers, doctors, engineers, and scientists are forced to live in cramped, overcrowded rooms,” he said.

He urged the government to prioritize constructing permanent hostel buildings, pointing out that students’ education and health are compromised without adequate accommodation.

The event saw the attendance of Telangana State BC Student President Vemula Ramakrishna, along with other student leaders, including K. Siva, R. Kavita, Balaram, Mallesh, CH Srinivas, Naveen Kumar, Vinay Goud, Suresh, and Shiva Raj, who all joined in thanking the government for its support and advocating for further improvements.

Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News, Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS.

Hyderabad: The online applications for the Telangana State Teacher Eligibility Test 2024 (TG-TET-2024-II) are invited by the Department of School Education.

The online-only applications can be submitted through the department’s official website.

The application window will open on November 5 and will receive applications till November 20.

The computer-based tests will be conducted between January 1, 2025 and January 20 2025.

Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News, Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS.

Hyderabad: One person was arrested on Monday for his involvement in multiple cases of cheating involving matrimony websites, including a non-bailable warrant, by the women’s safety wing police.

The arrested has been identified as Manda Venkata Kamesh, 30, hailing from West Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh.

According to the police, Kamesh has multiple cases registered against him for duping several families with lakhs of rupees on the pretext of getting their children married.

He is accused of making fake accounts on matrimony websites, finding matches, manipulating potential suitors and extorting money from them. He would ask potential brides and their families to send money to the accounts he provided to them, on the pretext of marriage.

Kamesh has cases registered against him across various police stations of Hyderabad and Cyberabad commissionerates, including WPS East Zone, Chilkalguda, Madhapur, Abids and one in Pattabhipuram police station, Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh.

The arrested accused has a non-bailable warrant issued against him, by the XIII ACMM Court, Nampally.

Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News, Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS.

Hyderabad: Two bike offenders who are allegedly involved in motorcycle and scooter theft were arrested by the Ibrahimpatnam police on Monday. The police recovered five vehicles from them.

The arrested persons have been identified as M Rajender, 24, and his associate Ganguly, 18. According to police, the duo modus operandi involved visiting isolated localities in Ibrahimpatnam where they would open the lock of parked bikes and scooters and take them away.

The two offenders would sell the stolen vehicles and use the money earned to lead a lavish lifestyle.

A case has been registered.

Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News, Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS.

Hyderabad: Leader of opposition and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi will arrive at Begumpet airport at 5 pm on Tuesday evening, November 5, after which he will be heading to Gandhi Ideology Centre in Bowenpally to attend the state level consultations meeting on caste census there from 5.30 pm to 6.30 pm.

The meeting commences at 3 pm, which will be attended by chief minister A Revanth Reddy, deputy chief minister Bhatti Vikramarka, TPCC president B Mahesh Kumar Goud, among others.

Rahul Gandhi will be spending an additional half an hour there, before boarding his special flight to Delhi at 7.10 pm from Begumpet airport.

Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News, Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS.

Hyderabad: The city police will initiate a special drive against bikers driving without helmets and riding on the wrong side of the road from Tuesday, November 5.

The decision comes in view of three motorcyclists losing their lives in three consecutive days, reportedly without helmets.

Additional commissioner of the traffic police department P Vishwa Prasad said that on November 1, a 48-year-old man lost his life after colliding with an unidentified DCM vehicle at Alaska Junction, Goshamahal.

On November 2, a 25-year-old woman died on the spot near Tarnaka, after being run over by an RTC bus.

On November 3, a 49-year-old man died of head injuries he sustained in an accident after colliding with a car. He was riding his two-wheeler on the wrong side of the road, without a helmet.

The police also specified that motorcycle riders should wear helmets that have the ISI mark to ensure the necessary safety levels are maintained.

The Telangana traffic police department levies the violators of helmet rules with Rs 200, and wrong-side travellers with Rs 2000.

Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News, Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS.

Hyderabad: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will address party’s Telangana unit leaders here on Tuesday as the state is set to embark on a caste survey.

Rahul Gandhi, who is also the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, is likely to give directions to the party functionaries a day ahead of the launch of the state-wide survey in line with his idea of a caste census.

The Congress leader will be in Hyderabad for only two hours and the only programme he is scheduled to attend is state-level consultations on the caste census, Congress leaders said.

As per the itinerary, Rahul Gandhi will reach Begumpet Airport by a special flight at 5 p.m. He will then leave for Gandhi Ideology Centre, Bowenpally, to address the meeting organised by the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC).

The meeting is likely to last for an hour. After the meeting, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, TPCC president B. Mahesh Kumar Goud and some senior leaders are likely to meet Rahul Gandhi separately at the same venue.

The top Congress leader will leave for Delhi at around 7.10 p.m.

Rahul Gandhi’s visit is significant as Telangana is set to become the first state to undertake a caste survey as promised by him in the elections.

He is expected to give directions to the party leaders on the need to successfully undertake the exercise as the party is keen to project the Telangana model to replicate the same in other states ruled by it.

A comprehensive door-to-door household survey (socio, educational, economic, employment, political, and caste survey) of the entire state will be undertaken from November 6.

More than 85,000 government employees will conduct the survey for which the Planning Department has been designated as the nodal department.

A Government Order (GO) was issued in this regard last month.

“The government, after careful consideration, hereby order to take up a comprehensive door-to-door household survey (socio, educational, economic, employment, political and caste survey) of entire Telangana to plan and implement various socio, economic, educational, employment and political opportunities for the amelioration of Backwards Classes, SC and ST citizens of the state and other weaker sections of the state,” reads the GO.

Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News, Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS.

Hyderabad: A 25-year-old student from Hyderabad has landed in hospital following a serious accident in Philadelphia, US.

The student, identified as Aditya, is currently fighting for his life after being struck by a car in a hit-and-run accident.

Details of accident in US

The accident occurred in the early hours of Saturday when Aditya was crossing the road on the 900 block of Watts Street in North Philadelphia. Reports indicate that a white car struck Aditya before speeding away from the scene.

The hit-and-run accident in the US has left him with severe head injuries, including brain contusions and clots.

Hyderabad Student’s battle for life in US hospital

Aditya is currently receiving urgent medical care at Temple University Hospital, one of the leading hospitals in Philadelphia, US. Doctors are working tirelessly to stabilize his condition, but his injuries are extensive and will require prolonged medical treatment.

However, the medical costs for the Hyderabad student in the US hospital are staggering, with estimates surpassing USD 250,000.

Having recently completed his master’s degree from Florida State University and awaiting a job offer from Amazon, covering the medical costs has become a challenging task. With no medical insurance and his family unable to support these overwhelming expenses, Aditya urgently needs financial assistance.

Crowdfunding campaign

To support Aditya’s treatment, his friend Shashidhar Dumpa started a GoFundMe campaign. This campaign aims to help cover his extensive medical costs in the US hospital.

The appeal has drawn attention from the community, raising over USD 119,732 so far, though more contributions are needed to meet the total costs.

Meanwhile, Philadelphia police have launched an investigation to track down the driver responsible for the accident. Authorities are seeking help from anyone with information about the incident as they work to bring justice to Aditya and his family.

Contributions for Hyderabad student’s medical care in US hospital

For those wishing to help Aditya in his fight for recovery, contributions to the GoFundMe campaign are crucial.

Every donation brings him closer to the medical care he needs in the US hospital, providing hope that he can return to a normal life after this accident.

Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News, Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS.

Hyderabad: Trouble erupted in Shamshabad on Tuesday after some individuals allegedly entered a temple and damaged idols of deities the previous night.

The incident came to light on Tuesday morning when the priest arrived to perform the pooja and noticed several idols had been damaged.

According to the priest, the miscreants reportedly opened the temple gate and damaged the idols with stones.

Upon receiving information, the police arrived at the scene.

Local BJP leaders visited the site and condemned the incident.

Scores of local people gathered at the temple in Airport Colony after learning about the vandalism.

The police have increased security in Airport Colony, where the temple is located.

Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News, Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS.

Hyderabad: In a strategic move to enhance revenue, the Telangana government has decided to auction vacant flats and open plots across the state.

This initiative, directed by the Cabinet subcommittee on resource mobilization, aims to generate significant income by selling unoccupied flats, particularly those constructed under the Rajiv Swagruha scheme.

Details of auction plans

The meeting of cabinet subcommittee, led by Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, was convened on Monday to discuss revenue-boosting measures.

During the meeting, members reviewed ongoing auctions of open plots managed by the Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MAUD) department.

With some land parcels facing legal disputes from private individuals, the deputy chief minister emphasized the need to resolve these issues promptly. He proposed forming a committee under the Special Chief Secretary of the Finance Department to expedite the resolution of such disputes.

Pros, cons of investing in flats, plots in Telangana

For potential buyers, understanding the advantages and drawbacks of investing in flats and plots in Telangana is crucial. It is necessary to analyze the options based on certain parameters.
Flexibility

One major advantage of open plots is the flexibility they offer. Buyers have the freedom to design and build their dream homes according to personal preferences, a level of control that is often limited with flats. Flats, on the other hand, come with predefined structures, offering less customization in terms of layout and design.

Appreciation rate

Open plots typically offer higher returns on investment compared to flats. Due to limited land availability, plots tend to appreciate faster, making them an attractive option for long-term investors. Conversely, flats may experience depreciation over time due to wear and tear, which could impact their resale value.

Financial assistance

When it comes to financing, there are notable differences between flats and plots in Telangana. The Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio for open plots is usually lower than that for flats, meaning buyers may find it harder to secure financing for plots. Flats, however, often have more accessible financing options, making them easier to purchase for individuals relying on loans.

Rental income potential

For those seeking rental income, flats are generally the better choice. Flats can generate rental returns almost immediately, while open plots do not provide income unless developed. Therefore, flats may be more suitable for investors looking to earn a steady rental income.

Upcoming auctions

The Telangana government’s auction of vacant flats and open plots provides an opportunity for potential buyers to invest in properties with diverse benefits.

By facilitating these auctions, the state not only aims to mobilize resources but also to make use of underutilized properties for economic growth.

Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News, Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS.

Hyderabad: A 6-year-old boy died at Hayatnagar on Monday, November 4, after a school gate fell on him.

The victim of the MPP school incident was identified as Ajay, a student of class 1. The incident occurred when the boy was playing near the gate.

At that moment, some children climbed the gate and swung it to and fro, the welding joints were weak, and the gate fell on Ajay. He suffered a severe head injury and was shifted to two private hospitals for treatment and later to a government area hospital in Vanasthalipuram, where the doctors pronounced him dead.

Following the incident, the Hayatnagar police arrived at the spot; based on the investigation a case of death due to negligence was registered under section 106 (1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanahita (BNS).

On Tuesday, parents of the victim along with the locals held a protest at the school, demanding action against those responsible for the mishap.  

The police are conducting a meeting with the parents and school staff to resolve the issue and end the protest.

Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News, Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS.

Hyderabad: Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) MLA T Harish Rao on Tuesday, November 5 alleged that Rahul Gandhi and the Telangana Congress have misled the youth of the state.

Rao referred to the recent Telangana Public Service Commission (TGPSC) exam fiasco, where aspirants were detained by the Telangana police for demanding the postponement of exams. He took a dig at the Congress’s “Praja Palana” style of governance and asked Rahul Gandhi if it includes detaining students, “Rahul Gandhi ji, are you aware students were beaten by your ‘Prajala Sarkar’ at the very place you visited?” he asked.

He said the state government has merely rebranded the TSPSC as TGPSC with no real benefits. The Siddipet MLA asked Gandhi to visit Ashoknagar in Hyderabad claiming that the area has been turned into “Shok” nagar.

In a post on X, the Siddipet MLA claimed that Yuva Vikasam Rs 5 lakh promise has turned into an empty guarantee, leaving Telangana’s youth insecure.

Rao further attacked the Congress government for providing only 10 percent of the promised 2 lakh jobs. He further criticised the Telangana government regarding the job calendar and termed it as ‘jobless calendar’.

The former Telangana minister’s post came after Rahul Gandhi termed the BRS tenure in Telangana as “Dorala KCR sarkar” alleging that the youth had suffered during the previous government. Gandhi said that the Congress government is helping the aspirants by providing assistance of Rs 5 lakh under the Yuva Vikasam scheme and remodelling the TSPSC in accordance with the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

The Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha further said, “The future of our youth is secure in the hands of Congress’ Prajala Sarkar – this is my Guarantee!”

TGPSC Group 1 aspirants protest

In October large number of TGPSC group 1 aspirants demanded specifically seeking clarity on several critical issues following the introduction of Government Order (GO) 55, which has raised questions about the future of their examinations.

One of the primary demands of the aspirants is to understand the implications if the court orders the implementation of GO 55. They are keen to know whether the government will consider re-conducting the Group 1 mains examination in light of this order. If so, aspirants want to clarify whether this re-examination would apply to all candidates or only to those who become newly eligible under GO 55.

In addition to this, the candidates are demanding transparency on the next steps the Telangana government would take if the Group 1 exams are cancelled. They demand clarity on whether there will be a complete re-examination for all candidates or if it will be limited to those impacted by the changes introduced by GO 55.

Another significant concern raised by the aspirants is regarding the fairness of the examination process. They demand assurances that measures will be in place to ensure fairness for candidates who were previously eligible under GO 29 but are at a disadvantage due to the implementation of GO 55.

Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News, Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS.

Hyderabad: The situation at the government modern maternity hospital at Petlaburj seems to be deteriorating further as the doctors continue to seek money from patients and their families for handing over babies.

All India Majlis-e-Ittehad ul Muslimeen (AIMIM) general secretary Ahmed Pasha Quadri visited the hospital and expressed dismay over the prevailing situation. “This is a renowned hospital where people from low-income families come for deliveries and this has continued for ages. However, the current staff is resorting to corruption. They are demanding Rs 2,000 to hand over newborns to the mothers,” he said.

The former Yakutpura MLA added that the staff is demanding an amount based on the nature of work. He alleged that corruption has increased too much at the Hyderabad government maternity hospital. Last week, Charminar MLA Mir Zulfeqar Ali also admonished the hospital staff and warned them against seeking money for handing over babies.

Quadri further said that an attendant faced a similar issue adding that the police had been deployed at the hospital to address any untoward incidents. “However, if the security personnel use force against the patients and attendants there is no point of having them here,” he remarked.

The AIMIM leader assured the Hyderabad public that he would take up the issue with the superintendent of the government modern maternity hospital. He directed the resident medical officer to make efforts to do away with the corrupt activities.

He called for an enquiry and suspension of those responsible for demanding money. A patient from Bandlaguda was turned away by the maternity hospital due to the alleged unavailability of wards or beds.

An attendant said that he paid Rs 3,000 to the staff after the birth of his son. Quadri said that the AIMIM is ready to help the people visiting the hospital adding that steps will be taken to revamp the security staff to curb the corruption.

A few attendants raised concerns over the security staff not assisting them while they were being intimidated by the hospital staff. “Let bygones be bygones, this is the last opportunity for the security personnel. I have spoken to the inspector and I hope that there will be no lack of response from the personnel in the future,” Quadri concluded.

Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News, Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS.

Hyderabad: The Hyderabad City Security Council (HCSC) has announced the Hyderabad Annual Cybersecurity Knowledge (H.A.C.K.) Summit 2024, which will take place on November 6 at The Park Hotel in Somajiguda.

This highly anticipated event will bring together top industry experts, government officials, and thought leaders to address cybersecurity challenges and strategies to close the skills gap, ultimately enhancing protection for both businesses and citizens against cyber threats.

C V Anand, Chairman of HCSC and Hyderabad’s Commissioner of Police, underscored the summit’s broader vision. “Our commitment to cyber safety goes beyond policing, it’s about fostering a culture where every citizen contributes to digital security. I invite everyone to join us at HCSC Cybersecurity Summit 2024 as we work together toward securing our digital future and reinforcing India’s fight against cybercrime.”

HCSC General Secretary, C Shekar Reddy, echoed this sentiment, adding, “The Cybersecurity Summit is a vital platform for sharing insights and equipping attendees with the latest strategies to tackle cyber threats. By gathering experts and stakeholders, we are reinforcing our commitment to a resilient digital landscape for Hyderabad.”

The summit, branded as H.A.C.K. 2.0, will feature a variety of sessions:

• Panel discussions on emerging cyber threats and the role of AI in cybersecurity.
• Fireside chats with celebrities and industry leaders focused on digital safety.
• Live demonstrations showcasing the latest cybersecurity tools.
• Networking opportunities with cybersecurity professionals, industry experts, and government officials.

Minister for IT and Industries, D. Sridhar Babu, will serve as the Chief Guest, joined by prominent speakers from both the public and private sectors.

Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News, Technology, Entertainment, Sports, Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS.