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Telangana Municipal and Corporation Elections Scheduled for February 11; Results on February 13

Hyderabad: The Telangana State Election Commission (TSEC) has announced elections to seven municipal corporations and 116 municipalities across the state, including newly formed urban local bodies (ULBs).

Polling for 2,996 wards—comprising 414 wards in seven municipal corporations and 2,582 wards in 116 municipalities—will be held on February 11, 2026, from 7 am to 5 pm. The results will be declared on February 13, 2026. A total of 52.43 lakh voters are eligible to cast their votes.

The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has been excluded from this election cycle, as its term will expire on February 10, 2026.

According to TSEC Commissioner I Rani Kumudini, along with CDMA Commissioner T K Sreedevi and Additional DGP (L&O) Mahesh Bhagwat, the election schedule is as follows:

  • Nominations: January 28–30, 2026
  • Scrutiny of nominations: January 31, 2026
  • Last date for withdrawal: February 3, 2026
  • Final list of contesting candidates: February 3, 2026, after 3 pm
  • Counting of votes: February 13, 2026, from 8 am

The oath of office for elected ward members and corporators will be administered on February 16, followed by a special meeting for the election of chairpersons and vice-chairpersons of municipalities, as well as mayors and deputy mayors of municipal corporations.

With the Model Code of Conduct now in force, officials will seize cash exceeding Rs 50,000 carried without valid documents. Each candidate is permitted to spend up to Rs 1.50 lakh during the campaign.

For the 2,996 ward elections:

  • 8,203 polling stations have been set up
  • 137 strong rooms earmarked for storing election material
  • 136 centres identified for vote counting
  • Live webcasting at all polling stations for monitoring

The election workforce includes 1,379 Returning Officers, 1,547 Assistant Returning Officers, 9,560 Polling Officers, and 31,428 other staff members.

Following the results, a notice in Form II will be issued by a government gazetted officer, calling for a special meeting on February 14 for elections to the offices of chairperson, vice-chairperson, mayor, and deputy mayor as per the Telangana Municipalities Act, 2019.

The seven municipal corporations going to polls are:

  • Greater Warangal Municipal Corporation
  • Nizamabad
  • Nalgonda
  • Karimnagar
  • Mahbubnagar
  • Mancherial
  • Kothagudem

Heavy Police Deployment to Ensure Peaceful Municipal Elections in Telangana

Telangana Police have intensified preparations to ensure peaceful and transparent municipal elections following the announcement of the poll schedule. Director General of Police B. Sivadhar Reddy said the police machinery is fully prepared, with strict security and surveillance measures now in force across all municipal corporations and municipalities under the election code of conduct.

As part of the arrangements, check posts and flying squads have been activated to prevent the distribution of illegal cash, liquor, drugs, and other inducements. Officials will verify the source of cash exceeding ₹50,000, ensure the deposit of licensed weapons, and conduct special searches to detect illegal arms. Recalling the recent Gram Panchayat elections, Mr. Reddy noted that 1,800 weapons were voluntarily surrendered at police stations during that exercise.

To boost voter confidence, armed flag marches will be conducted at over 1,000 sensitive and vulnerable locations across the State. In addition to local police, personnel from the Telangana State Special Police and other departments are being deployed, with around 2,000 staff from the Excise and Forest departments assigned to election duties.

The DGP appealed to citizens to exercise their franchise freely and resist inducements, assuring that police will remain on high alert to maintain calm and orderly elections.

Ex CM of AP – Dr. Marri Channa Reddy had survived massive air-crash on Dec-17th-1978

On This Day in History | December 17, 1978

Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Marri Channa Reddy miraculously survived a massive Boeing aircraft crash at Hyderabad on December 17, 1978.

The ill-fated flight, carrying 126 passengers from Hyderabad to New Delhi, met with a major accident shortly after takeoff. Dr. Marri Channa Reddy was among the survivors—an incident widely described as a “new lease of life.”

At the time, Dr. Channa Reddy was serving as the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh (March 1978 – October 1980). After surviving the crash, he continued his dedicated service to the nation and public life with renewed strength.

This remarkable escape remains one of the most dramatic and inspiring moments in Indian political history.

Medaram Sammakka–Saralamma Jatara 2026: Telangana Gears Up for World’s Largest Tribal Festival

Medaram, Telangana | January 2026

The Telangana government has made extensive arrangements for the Medaram Sammakka–Saralamma Jatara 2026, one of the world’s largest tribal festivals, which is expected to attract crores of devotees from across the country. The biennial festival will be held from January 28 to January 31, 2026, in Medaram village of Mulugu district.

As part of the preparations, the state government has developed permanent infrastructure around the sacred gaddes (altars) of Sammakka and Saralamma, replacing temporary structures. Granite constructions reflecting tribal culture and traditions have been completed to provide a better and safer darshan experience for devotees.

To manage the massive footfall, authorities have upgraded and widened roads, created large parking spaces across multiple locations, and established scientific queue systems. More than 40,000 officials and staff from various departments have been deployed to ensure smooth conduct of the jatara.

The TSRTC is operating thousands of special buses, making lakhs of trips to facilitate transportation for pilgrims. Medical facilities, including a 24/7 hospital, emergency health camps, and ambulance services, have been arranged to handle any emergencies during the festival.

Security has been strengthened with police, fire services, SDRF teams, watchtowers, and surveillance measures in sensitive areas such as streams and crowd-prone locations. Drinking water, sanitation, lighting, and resting shelters have also been provided across the jatara grounds.

The Medaram Jatara, deeply rooted in tribal tradition and faith, is celebrated to honour Goddess Sammakka and Saralamma, symbolizing the rich cultural heritage of Telangana. With meticulous planning and large-scale arrangements, the state is set to host the mega religious congregation smoothly and safely.

HYDRAA Intensifies Fire Safety Inspections Across Hyderabad, Warns of Strict Action

Hyderabad:
The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has stepped up enforcement of fire safety norms across the city, warning of strict action against establishments violating regulations.

HYDRAA Commissioner A.V. Ranganath has ordered intensified inspections across commercial zones following recent fire incidents. He directed officials to ensure strict compliance with fire safety regulations in both commercial establishments and residential areas.

A coordination meeting was held on Wednesday with officials from the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), the Fire Services Department, and the Electricity Department to streamline enforcement measures.

Inspection teams have been instructed to conduct checks at business complexes, furniture showrooms, textile shops, and other commercial premises. Establishments found violating mandatory fire safety norms will be sealed, the commissioner said.

Power Disconnection for Non-Compliance

Ranganath also ordered the immediate disconnection of electricity supply to non-compliant establishments. Officials were directed to paste notices declaring such premises as lacking mandatory fire safety measures. Inspections will be conducted across all parts of the city without exception.

Public Urged to Report Fire Hazards

The commissioner appealed to citizens to report potential fire hazards to the HYDRAA control room at 9000113667. Residents were asked to share the exact location along with photographs or videos of unsafe conditions. He assured that the identity of informants would be kept confidential.

HYDRAA emphasized that public cooperation is crucial to preventing fire accidents and ensuring public safety across Hyderabad.

Hyderabad Emerges as India’s Tallest City, Surpassing Gurugram, Bengaluru, Noida, Pune, and Kolkata Combined

Hyderabad, January 2026 – Hyderabad has quietly transformed into India’s tallest urban center, outpacing Gurugram, Bengaluru, Noida, Pune, and Kolkata in skyscraper development. Over the past decade, the city has witnessed an unprecedented surge in high-rise residential and commercial towers, reshaping its skyline and redefining urban density in India.

The rapid vertical expansion is largely concentrated along the IT corridor, stretching from Gachibowli to Kokapet and the Financial District. Factors driving this growth include liberal floor space index norms, faster approvals, large land parcels, and sustained demand from IT professionals and investors. Today, luxury towers soaring 40 to 50+ floors dominate the cityscape, a stark contrast to Hyderabad’s traditional image of old bazaars and sprawling low-rise neighborhoods.

Unlike other major metros, Hyderabad’s high-rises are built in cohesive clusters, creating a continuous skyline rather than scattered pockets of development. This approach has allowed the city to expand vertically without severe land fragmentation, giving it a modern, organized aesthetic.

In comparison, Gurugram and Noida, though known for high-rise living, face regulatory hurdles, infrastructure constraints, and disjointed planning, limiting the overall vertical scale of their skylines. Bengaluru, India’s tech capital, continues to grow horizontally due to airport restrictions, strict zoning rules, and civic resistance, resulting in a predominantly mid-rise cityscape. Pune and Kolkata also lag behind in terms of concentrated high-rise development.

Hyderabad’s rise as a vertical city signals a new era in urban planning, emphasizing denser living, modern infrastructure, and luxury real estate. With its towering glass-clad structures, the city now tells a story very different from its historical past — a story of ambition, growth, and the future of urban India.

Hyderabad Police ‘Arrive Alive’ Road Safety Program Draws Over 600 Participants

The Hyderabad City Police on Wednesday, January 28, organised ‘Arrive Alive’, a road safety awareness programme, at the APJ Abdul Kalam Auditorium in Ibrahim Bagh. The event was held in collaboration with Vasavi Engineering College and was attended by over 600 students and faculty members.

Addressing the gathering, Joint Commissioner of Police Joel Davis said the Arrive Alive movement was launched by Telangana Director General of Police B. Shivadhar Reddy with the aim of ensuring that road safety awareness reaches every household and institution across the State.

Highlighting the alarming rise in road accidents, Davis said nearly 8,000 people lost their lives in road accidents in Telangana last year, adding that 70–80 per cent of these fatalities were preventable had basic safety precautions been followed. He also underlined the severe socio-economic impact road accidents have on families.

Speaking about the Good Samaritan Act, Davis explained that bystanders who assist accident victims are not required to disclose personal details or phone numbers and will not be compelled by police to act as witnesses. He added that private hospitals are legally mandated to provide immediate treatment during the ‘golden hour’, and noted that the government is exploring reward mechanisms through the Transport Department for individuals who help save lives.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Rahul Hegde said roads are shared public spaces and traffic rules are designed to ensure safety and equal access for all citizens. He urged students to behave responsibly on roads and to act as ambassadors of road safety in society.

Sri Nityananda Trayodashi – 31st January 2026 (Saturday)

✨ Divine Appearance Day Celebration ✨

Bhaktivedanta Institute, Hyderabad
cordially invites all devotees and well-wishers to celebrate the auspicious Sri Nityananda Trayodashi, marking the divine appearance of Sri Nityananda Prabhu, the embodiment of mercy, compassion, and pure devotional love.

📍 Venue:
Marri Krishna Hall,
Near Dr. M. Channa Reddy Garu’s Residence &
St. Ann’s High School, Vijayapuri Colony,
Tarnaka, Secunderabad

🕉️ Program Schedule:
🕘 9:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Kirtan
🕤 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM: Abhishekam
🕥 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM:
Sri Nityananda Mahaprabhu Katha
🕦 11:30 AM: Aarti
🍛 Followed by Mahaprasadam

🌼 Come and receive the blessings of Sri Nityananda Prabhu, the original spiritual master who bestows pure love of God.

📞 Contact:
+91 94901 38389 | +91 94414 91855

🙏 All are cordially invited.

National Open Kung-Fu, Karate & Taekwondo Championship – 2026

Successfully Held at Marri Krishna Hall, Tarnaka, Hyderabad

The National Open Kung-Fu, Karate & Taekwondo Championship – 2026, organized by New Shaolin Kung-Fu Hyderabad, was successfully conducted at Marri Krishna Hall, Tarnaka, Hyderabad with great enthusiasm and discipline.

The championship witnessed active participation from martial artists representing various states, academies, and associations across the country. Competitions were held in Kung-Fu, Karate, and Taekwondo across multiple age and weight categories, showcasing high standards of skill, strength, and sportsmanship.

The event was graced by the presence of senior martial arts masters, referees, officials, and distinguished guests, whose encouragement motivated the athletes to perform at their best. The well-organized matches, fair officiating, and smooth event management were widely appreciated by participants and spectators.

At the conclusion of the championship, medals and certificates were awarded to the winners and participants, recognizing their dedication and achievements. The event served as a strong platform to promote martial arts culture, discipline, and unity at the national level.

The National Open Kung-Fu, Karate & Taekwondo Championship – 2026 concluded on a successful note, and New Shaolin Kung-Fu Hyderabad extends heartfelt congratulations to all participants, coaches, officials, and organizers for making the event a grand success.

Municipal Elections in Telangana Scheduled for February 11-2026

The State Election Commission (SEC) of Telangana on Tuesday announced that elections to seven Municipal Corporations and 116 municipalities across the state will be conducted on February 11. The announcement marks the beginning of the election process for urban local bodies after a review of administrative and security preparedness.

State Election Commissioner I. Rani Kumudini released the election schedule after holding a comprehensive meeting with all District Collectors and Superintendents of Police, during which polling arrangements, law and order, and logistical preparedness were discussed.

Election Schedule

As per the notification:

  • January 28: Election notice to be issued by Returning Officers; ward-wise electoral rolls to be displayed
  • January 30: Last date for filing nominations
  • January 31: Scrutiny of nominations and publication of valid candidates list
  • February 1: Filing of appeals against rejected nominations
  • February 2: Disposal of appeals
  • February 3: Last date for withdrawal of nominations and publication of final contesting candidates list
  • February 11: Polling day
  • February 12: Re-polling, if necessary
  • February 13: Counting of votes and declaration of results

The Model Code of Conduct for the concerned urban local bodies will come into force immediately after the issuance of the election notification.

Voter and Ward Details

A total of 52.43 lakh voters are eligible to vote in these municipal elections. This includes:

  • 25.62 lakh male voters
  • 26.80 lakh female voters
  • 640 voters in other categories

Polling will be conducted in 2,996 wards spread across 123 urban local bodies, reflecting the scale and significance of the exercise.

Polling Infrastructure and Security

To ensure smooth conduct of elections, the SEC has planned extensive arrangements:

  • 8,203 polling stations
  • 16,031 ballot boxes
  • 137 strong rooms for secure storage of ballot boxes
  • 136 counting centres across the state

Adequate police personnel will be deployed at polling stations, counting centres, and sensitive locations. Special attention will be given to vulnerable and sensitive wards, with additional security measures and surveillance.

Reservation of Wards

The SEC detailed the reservation pattern for wards, aimed at ensuring inclusive representation:

  • Women (Unreserved): 864 wards
  • General (Unreserved): 647 wards
  • Backward Classes (General): 463 wards
  • Backward Classes (Women): 391 wards
  • Scheduled Castes (General): 254 wards
  • Scheduled Castes (Women): 190 wards
  • Scheduled Tribes (General): 147 wards
  • Scheduled Tribes (Women): 40 wards

The reservation system is in line with constitutional provisions and state government guidelines to promote participation from socially and economically weaker sections.

GHMC and Other Municipalities

The State Election Commission clarified that elections to three Municipal Corporations, including the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), and five municipalities will be conducted at a later date. The schedule for these elections will be announced separately after addressing administrative and legal considerations.

Political Significance

The municipal elections are expected to be a litmus test for political parties ahead of future state-level contests. Major political parties are likely to intensify campaigning in urban areas, focusing on civic infrastructure, sanitation, drinking water supply, roads, and urban governance.