Khammam: Governor Jishnu Dev Varma emphasized the need to ensure that everyone in society benefits from government-led development and welfare programs. He encouraged collective efforts to create a more inclusive society.
On Friday, the Governor met with local officials, leaders, and prominent figures at the Khammam Collectorate’s meeting hall. Those in attendance included Khammam MP Ramasahayam Raghuram Reddy, Principal Secretary to the Governor Burra Venkatesham, District Collector Muzammil Khan, Police Commissioner Sunil Dutt, Additional Collector Dr. P. Sreeja, and Municipal Commissioner Abhishek Agastya. Several district officials, artists, writers, and athletes were also present.
During the meeting, District Collector Muzammil Khan gave a detailed presentation on Khammam’s development. He highlighted the district’s cultural heritage, traditions, and welfare programs using a PowerPoint presentation.
The Governor praised the district’s dedication to environmental protection. He reflected on his own early experiences as an environmentalist and pointed to Padma Shri awardee Vanajeevi Ramaiah as a source of inspiration. “We should treat nature with reverence, considering it equivalent to God,” he said.
The Governor also commended several initiatives in the district, especially the creation of nutrition gardens at government schools. He mentioned that these gardens, which include medicinal plants, had already been introduced in Kothagudem and encouraged Khammam schools to follow suit. Additionally, he called for a tree plantation drive across the district, emphasizing the importance of greenery in improving community well-being.
Governor Varma touched on Khammam’s potential as a tourist destination. He suggested the development of a Buddhist stupa similar to the one in Sarnath to attract more visitors to the region. He also praised the district’s educational tours for government school students.
Reflecting on the recent flood recovery efforts, the Governor commended the district’s quick response in providing aid and compensation to affected communities, minimizing the impact of the disaster.
Later, the Governor announced plans to return to the district to explore its tourist attractions with local dignitaries.
MP Ramasahayam Raghuram Reddy thanked the Governor for his visit and praised the district’s young and energetic administration for its progressive approach to development. He highlighted Khammam’s scenic locations, such as the Paleru Reservoir, Buddha Stupa, Kinnerasani, and KTPS, and invited the Governor to experience these sites during his next visit.
Earlier in the day, the Governor offered prayers at the Lord Rama Temple in Bhadrachalam. He also inaugurated a thalassemia children’s ward at the Red Cross Bhavan.