Whispers of the Hills —
Political Leadership in Araku Valley
Regam Matyalingam – MLA (Araku Valley Assembly Constituency)
Party: YSR Congress Party (YSRCP)
Term: Elected in 2024
Age: 57 years
Profession: Retired teacher
Assets: Approximately ₹32 lakh
Criminal Cases: One pending case
Electoral Victory: Secured 65,658 votes (36.71%), defeating BJP’s Pangi Rajarao by a margin of 31,877 votes
Gumma Thanuja Rani – Member of Parliament (Araku Lok Sabha Constituency)
Party: YSR Congress Party (YSRCP)
Term: Elected in 2024
Age: 31 years
Profession: Medical Doctor
Electoral Victory: Secured 4,77,005 votes, defeating BJP’s Kothapalli Geetha by a margin of 50,580 votes
Recent Developments in Araku Valley
Eco-Tourism Initiatives and Tribal Concerns
The Andhra Pradesh Forest Department’s plan to develop Vanjangi and Madagada hills into community-based eco-tourism centers has sparked tensions with local tribal communities. Villagers fear that the project, which includes infrastructure development and regulation of tourism activities, may disrupt their livelihoods and exclude them from decision-making processes. Despite assurances from authorities about community participation, skepticism remains among the locals.
Home Stay Initiatives to Promote Tribal Culture
The Alluri Sitarama Raju district administration is planning to establish home stays in Araku Valley and other tourist places, providing a homely atmosphere for tourists. Authorities are preparing action plans to set up home stays in tribal villages close to tourist spots. Beneficiaries will receive financial assistance of ₹5 lakh for newly constructed home stays and ₹3 lakh to develop existing houses into home stays. Additionally, training on tribal cuisine preparation will be provided to home stay operators.
Araku Valley is a picturesque hill station in Andhra Pradesh, known for its lush green coffee plantations, waterfalls, and tribal culture.
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Get In Touch
Araku Valley, Alluri Sitarama Raju District, Andhra Pradesh 531149, India
8897965113
9398441197
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