Mahanadu Goes Online
Babu’s austerity call: AP TDP President gives up heavy security cover. Makes Ensuing Mahanadu an online event
Palla Srinivasa Rao trims security convoy, returns bullet-proof vehicle in line with “My Nation, My Responsibility” call
Visakhapatnam, May 19: In a move reflecting the Centre’s call for austerity and fuel conservation amid prevailing geopolitical uncertainties, Telugu Desam Party State president and Gajuwaka MLA Palla Srinivasa Rao has voluntarily scaled down his official security arrangements and convoy protocol.
Citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal to citizens to reduce fuel consumption, particularly in the backdrop of the evolving situation in West Asia, and Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s repeated emphasis on responsible governance and prudent expenditure, Mr. Srinivasa Rao said public representatives must lead by example in demonstrating restraint and accountability.
As part of this decision, the MLA has declined the use of the bullet-proof vehicle allotted to him under the Y-category security cover and has returned the vehicle to the police department. He has also opted to curtail his security detail, stating that a reduced deployment of personnel would suffice for his official engagements.
Further, Mr. Srinivasa Rao has chosen to forgo green-channel movement and extensive escort arrangements, preferring instead to undertake constituency tours in his personal vehicle in an effort to minimise inconvenience to the public and reduce avoidable government expenditure.
Addressing the media, he observed that the Chief Minister’s appeal invoking the spirit of “Na Desam–Na Badhyata” (“My Nation–My Responsibility”) had resonated deeply with him. “At a time when the nation is being called upon to exercise restraint and prioritise collective responsibility, every citizen — particularly those in public life — must consciously avoid extravagance and cultivate a culture of savings and discipline,” he remarked.
Mr. Srinivasa Rao also announced that the Telugu Desam Party’s annual Mahanadu, traditionally conducted on a grand physical scale, would this year be organised through digital and online platforms, with greater emphasis on technology-enabled participation and cost-effective management practices.