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The annual onset of the monsoon season triggers a unique phenomenon in parts of Kurnool District, particularly the mandals around the Tungabhadra river basin, including Jonnagiri, Tuggali, and Maddikera. This is the seasonal diamond rush, a tradition fueled by centuries-old folklore and the hope of instant fortune. Heavy rainfall washes away the topsoil in these fields, often exposing small precious stones and diamonds that were historically mined during the Vijayanagara Empire era. News of lucky finds—like a recent report of a diamond sold for an estimated ₹2 crore—sends hundreds of local villagers and outsiders flocking to these rain-washed fields. Entire families return from migrating for work to camp in makeshift tents, spending hours digging and sifting through the earth. However, this unregulated trade often leads to exploitation, as farmers are forced to sell their valuable finds to local trader syndicates for significantly lower prices. Despite the risks and the speculative nature of the hunt, the diamond rush remains a compelling, seasonal cultural event, driven by persistence and the lure of life-changing wealth.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth a massive ₹13,430 crore in the Kurnool District, marking a significant push for Rayalaseema’s economic upliftment. These multi-sectoral initiatives span crucial areas including industry, power transmission, defence manufacturing, and connectivity, reflecting a commitment to accelerated regional growth. Key among the projects is the Orvakal Industrial Area, being developed as a modern, multi-sectoral hub expected to attract large investments and generate up to one lakh direct jobs. Furthermore, the PM laid the foundation for the Transmission System Strengthening at Kurnool-III Pooling Station, a ₹2,880 crore project designed to enhance renewable energy transmission capacity across the region. The Prime Minister specifically lauded the state government’s resolve to transform Kurnool into India’s Drone Hub, with plans for a large-scale Drone Park at Orvakal to foster futuristic technologies. Alongside industrial development, the projects included significant upgrades to the road and railway infrastructure, aimed at improving logistics and connectivity. This comprehensive package underscores the focus on making Kurnool a pivotal growth engine for Andhra Pradesh and a major contributor to the vision of a developed India by 2047.

Kurnool District is poised to become a significant center for green energy with the recent sanctioning of a monumental ₹7,500 crore funding for a hybrid renewable energy project by Brookfield. This massive investment, facilitated by the Rural Electrification Corporation (REC), underscores the district’s strategic importance and ideal conditions for sustainable energy generation. The ambitious project is designed to integrate a substantial 640 MW of wind power with 400 MW of solar capacity, creating a powerful and consistent source of clean energy. This hybrid model aims to overcome the intermittency challenges often associated with individual wind or solar farms, ensuring a more reliable supply to the grid. The project is expected to inject a significant boost into the local economy, not only through the initial construction phase but also through long-term operational and maintenance jobs. Furthermore, it aligns perfectly with Andhra Pradesh’s broader vision to emerge as a national leader in renewable energy production. This development positions Kurnool at the forefront of India’s energy transition, attracting further green technology investments and solidifying its role in the country’s sustainable future.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu recently participated in a key event, virtually laying the foundation stone for several significant development projects aimed at boosting the economy and infrastructure of the Kurnool District. This technological approach allowed the CM to initiate projects without extensive travel, focusing on rapid implementation. The inaugurated schemes cover vital sectors, including initiatives by the Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (APIIC), aimed at accelerating industrial growth and job creation in areas like Orvakal. Furthermore, the virtual ceremony included the launch of enhancements to the Orvakal Airport, expanding its capacity and connectivity to better serve the Rayalaseema region. A considerable focus was also placed on boosting tourism infrastructure to capitalize on Kurnool’s rich historical and religious sites like Mantralayam and Ahobilam. These projects collectively signal the government’s renewed commitment to developing the district as a major industrial and transit hub in Andhra Pradesh. The government expects these initiatives to generate significant local employment and attract further national and international investment.

The Kurnool District police recently made a significant arrest in connection with the tragic private bus fire accident near Chinnatekur that claimed 19 lives in late October 2025. The owner of the private travel company, Vemuri Vinod Kumar (Accused No. 2), was formally apprehended, following the earlier arrest of the bus driver. The fatal incident occurred in the early hours when the Hyderabad-Bengaluru bound sleeper coach collided with a motorcycle, causing a massive fire. A detailed investigation by the police and the Transport Department revealed multiple severe safety and regulatory violations by the travel operator. Officials found the bus had been illegally converted from a seater to a sleeper coach, which dangerously obstructed the emergency exit and compromised fire safety. Furthermore, the bus was reportedly operating without proper permits and lacked crucial fire suppression systems mandated by national safety standards. Though the owner was granted bail by a local court shortly after the arrest, he faces serious charges, including culpable homicide, under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The arrests highlight the police’s determination to hold not just the driver but also the operators accountable for safety breaches that contributed to the devastating loss of life.