The Hindu : Andhra Pradesh News : Real test lies ahead

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Tuesday, Jun 10, 2008
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Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh

Real test lies ahead

Last week’s hike in price of petroleum products sure has come as a dampener to Congress which was savouring its impressive performance in byelections.

But apparently to ease the burden to some extent on people and not to upset its voters so soon after the byelections, and an year before the next big elections, it announced to bear the entire hike of Rs.50 on LPG cylinders and staved off RTC fare hik e.

For now, the ruling party could give some semblance of relief to people. But given the fluctuation in crude oil prices, can it continue to act like shock absorber is the big question. With the steep hike in petrol and diesel prices and its cascading effect on every thing, the knee-jerk responses may not impress people for too long what with inflation is predicted to enter double digit figures soon.

The real question is will political parties put their heads together for some long term political decisions to ease mind blowing expenditure on fuel.

In the days when generating interest in the Telugu language seems an impossible task, Potti Sreeramulu Telugu University is doing yeomen service to the language and culture through its various initiatives. Be it the courses offered or the translation project, or the efforts to document information, or patronage to fine arts, the university’s programmes speak for its commitment.

However, the press conference at the Vice-Chancellor’s chambers on Monday exposed a glaring lacuna overlooked by even V-C A. Manjulatha known for her methodical approach. The press release announcing a course for foreign nationals was printed in English. The V-C was embarrassed when a reporter pointed it out. She explained that they had taken the print straight out of the website where it was displayed for the foreign students. True, actions make statements stronger than spoken words.

M.L. MELLY MAITREYI, SWATHI.V

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Andhra Pradesh