Date:10/04/2005 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2005/04/10/stories/2005041007690400.htm

Andhra Pradesh

YSR gives away Ugadi Puraskarams

By Our Special Correspondent

HYDERABAD, APRIL 9. The Chief Minister, Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy, honoured three progressive farmers -- K.Varalaxmi from Gaurapalem of Pendurthy mandal in Visakhapatnam district and G. Rambabu of Mellacheruvu of Nalgonda district during the Ugadi celebrations here on Saturday.

He handed over the prestigious `Hamsa' awards (given to poets and artistes for excellence and contribution to their fields) to Gunturu Seshendra Sharma (literature), Dandamudi Ramamohana Rao (music), Nataraja Ramakrishna (dance), Janakamma (folk-Dhimsa) and Suryaprakash (painting).

Ugadi Puraskaramas were also given away to 18 persons including noted social activist, Hemalatha Lavanam. This apart, several vedic pundits and scholars were honoured with shawls and cash awards.

The Chief Minister announced a pension of Rs.5, 000 per month to noted Kuchipudi guru Nataraja Ramakrishna. He directed the officials to arrange free medicare to the doyen.

This gesture followed the representation received from some quarters about the health condition of the master.

Almanac released

The Chief Minister later released `Agricultural almanac' produced by Acharya N.G.Ranga Agricultural University, TTD's traditional almanac and CDs on folk arts and an Artistes Diary.

The Minister for Tourism, J. Geeta Reddy, proposed a vote of thanks.

The Speaker, K.R. Suresh Reddy, was present.