Dr. Akkivarapu Mohan Rao

Political Journey and Contributions of Mr Mohan Rao: From BJP to TDP Leadership

My political journey began in 1991 when I joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), guided by Nandaraju Goud, the city’s vice president. This early involvement allowed me to build a strong foundation in political activism and community service. As the Youth President at Asif Nagar, Nampally from 1991 to 1993, I engaged with the youth, organized events to promote political awareness, and strengthened our grassroots presence. This period was pivotal in shaping my approach to leadership and community engagement.

In 1994, I transitioned to the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), which marked a new chapter in my career. My leadership roles with the Uttara Andhra Christian Forum and the Ambedkar Porata Samithi reflected my commitment to social justice and community welfare. Leading the Uttara Andhra Christian Forum, I focused on advocating for the Christian community’s needs, while my role with the Ambedkar Porata Samithi involved pushing for the effective implementation of policies benefiting Scheduled Castes and ensuring transparency in resource allocation.

From 2001 to 2016, I served as President of the Viswa Vartha Seva Society, where I led numerous community development initiatives. My work included managing welfare programs, coordinating volunteer efforts, and forging partnerships to enhance our outreach. Additionally, my involvement with Viswa Vani and Jesus Followers allowed me to provide spiritual guidance and organize charitable events, demonstrating my commitment to both spiritual and community development.

Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to addressing local issues and advocating for regional development. My efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, including organizing food distribution drives and supporting frontline workers, reflect my ongoing commitment to humanitarian aid and community support. My political journey has been driven by a passion for public service and a desire to make a positive impact in the lives of those I serve.

-Dr. Akkivarapu Mohan Rao

Aspirant, Praja Sangala JAC Chairperson, Uttara Andhra Christian Forum President, Andhra Pradesh

Early Life and Family Background of Mr Mohan Rao

Mr Mohan Rao was born on April 23, 1978, in Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh. He was raised in a supportive family environment by his parents, Sri Mukha Lingam (late) and Smt. Lakshmamma. His father’s guidance and his mother’s nurturing played a significant role in shaping his values and dedication to public service.

Professional Overview of Mr. Mohan Rao: Contributions as Assistant Director for Tribal Development and Film Producer

Role and Contributions as a Film Producer and Assistant Director

Mr. Mohan Rao has held the esteemed position of Assistant Director for the Tribal Development Society in Vizianagaram and Srikakulam, where he played a pivotal role in advancing the welfare of tribal communities. In this capacity, he managed and facilitated communication between tribal members, community groups, businesses, and government agencies across the regions of Vizianagaram and Srikakulam. His efforts ensured that the tribal objectives were consistently aligned with interdepartmental initiatives, fostering a cohesive approach to community development.

Key Responsibilities and Activities:

• Managed Communications: Oversaw and coordinated communication between tribal members, community groups, businesses, and government agencies in Vizianagaram and Srikakulam, ensuring effective dialogue and collaboration.
• Facilitated Interdepartmental Communication: Ensured alignment of tribal development objectives by facilitating communication between different departments and stakeholders, promoting cohesive and integrated efforts.
• Maintained Constituent Relations: Fostered strong relationships with constituents by organizing public meetings, participating in community events, and implementing a robust feedback system via office staff to address community concerns and gather input.
• Enforced Tribal Laws: Issued citations for violations of tribal laws and ordinances, demonstrating a commitment to upholding legal standards and community regulations.
• Liaised with Local Government: Attended meetings with local government officials as needed to discuss and address police-related issues and other community matters, ensuring that tribal interests and concerns were effectively represented.

Role and Contributions as a Film Producer

As a producer in the film industry, Mr. Mohan Rao has been instrumental in managing various aspects of movie production, from its initial concept to its final execution. He has been responsible for overseeing budget management, ensuring that financial resources are allocated effectively and that the project remains within its financial constraints.

Mr. Mohan Rao’s role required close coordination with directors, writers, actors, and other key personnel to ensure that all elements of the production aligned smoothly. He supervised day-to-day operations on set, addressing any issues that arose and maintaining adherence to the production schedule and quality standards.

His responsibilities also included providing creative input on script development, casting decisions, and overall project direction, which helped preserve the artistic integrity of the film. Additionally, Mr. Mohan Rao built and maintained relationships with industry stakeholders, such as distributors and financiers, to facilitate the film’s promotion and commercial success. His problem-solving skills were crucial in managing challenges during production, ensuring that the project progressed smoothly and met its goals.

Political Journey of Mr Mohan Rao: From BJP to TDP Leadership

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)

Mr. Mohan Rao embarked on his political career by joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 1991. Under the guidance and mentorship of the city vice president, Nandaraju Goud, he became an active and influential member of the party. His early involvement in the BJP allowed him to gain valuable political experience and establish a solid foundation for his future endeavours.

Youth President at Asif Nagar, Chinthal Basti(1991-1993)

During his tenure as the BJP Youth President at Asif Nagar, Chinthal Basti  from 1991 to 1993, Mr Mohan Rao played a crucial role in mobilizing the youth and strengthening the party’s grassroots presence in the area. His responsibilities included:

• Engaging the Youth: He organized and led various youth-centric programs and events to foster political awareness and participation among young people.
• Community Outreach: Mr Rao worked to build strong relationships with the local community, addressing their concerns and integrating their feedback into the party’s initiatives.
• Political Mobilization: His efforts in rallying young voters and encouraging their active participation in political processes contributed significantly to the party’s growth and visibility in Asif Nagar, Chinthal Basti.

Transition to Telugu Desam Party (TDP) (1994)

In 1994, Mr.  Moahn Rao made a significant transition to the Telugu Desam Party (TDP). This move marked a new chapter in his political career, where he continued to demonstrate his commitment to public service and political leadership. Joining TDP allowed him to broaden his influence and engage with new political and community challenges, furthering his dedication to the development of his region and the advancement of his political goals.

Leadership and Advocacy: Mr Mohan Rao’s Role with Uttara Andhra Christian Forum and Ambedkar Porata Samithi

Uttara Andhra Christian Forum President (1994-2008)

From 1994 to 2008, Mr. Mohan Rao served as the President of the Uttara Andhra Christian Forum. In this role, he led efforts to advocate for the needs and concerns of the Christian community in North Andhra. His leadership involved organizing community events, addressing social issues, and representing the interests of Christian groups in various forums. Mr Mohan Rao’s tenure was marked by his commitment to fostering unity, addressing community challenges, and promoting the welfare of Christians in the region.

State Vice President of Ambedkar Porata Samithi, Andhra Pradesh

As the State Vice President of Ambedkar Porata Samithi in Andhra Pradesh, Mr Mohan Rao played a critical role in advocating for the rights and development of Scheduled Castes. His tenure was marked by several key activities aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of this marginalized community:

• Implementation of SC Sub-Plan: Mr Mohan Rao was a passionate advocate for the effective implementation of the Scheduled Caste Sub-Plan (SCSP). He worked tirelessly to ensure that funds allocated under the SCSP were properly utilized to benefit Scheduled Castes. His efforts included pushing for systematic and transparent allocation of resources to ensure that they reached the intended beneficiaries and had a tangible impact on their welfare.
• Increased Budgetary Allocations: Recognizing the need for enhanced financial support, Mr. Mohan Rao lobbied for increased budgetary allocations for the SCSP. He sought to secure additional resources to boost the economic and social development of Scheduled Castes, aiming to address disparities and promote greater equity.
• Ensuring Transparency: Mr. Mohan Rao emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in the management of SCSP funds. He was instrumental in establishing mechanisms to monitor the use of these funds, ensuring that they were spent effectively and that there was a clear and accountable process for tracking expenditures.
• Rights Protection and Promotion: A significant part of Mr Mohan Rao’s role involved advocating for the protection and promotion of the rights of Scheduled Castes. He worked to ensure that government schemes and policies were effectively designed and implemented to address the specific needs of this community and that their rights were safeguarded against discrimination and exploitation.
• Monitoring Government Policies: Mr. Mohan Rao was actively engaged in monitoring and evaluating government policies related to Scheduled Castes. He assessed the execution and impact of these policies to ensure they met the required standards and effectively addressed the challenges faced by Scheduled Castes. This involved providing feedback to policymakers, suggesting improvements, and ensuring that the needs of the community were adequately addressed.

President of Viswa Vartha Seva Society (2001-2016)

As President of the Viswa Vartha Seva Society from 2001 to 2016, Mr Mohan Rao was a driving force behind a wide array of community development and social welfare initiatives. His role involved:

• Leadership in Community Development: Mr. Mohan Rao led numerous programs aimed at improving the living standards of individuals and families within the community. These programs addressed a range of issues, from educational and health services to economic development and infrastructure improvements, significantly enhancing the well-being of the community.
• Initiation and Management of Welfare Programs: He was instrumental in initiating and managing various welfare programs. His leadership ensured these programs were not only launched successfully but also effectively implemented, providing crucial support and resources to those in need.
• Volunteer Coordination: Under his leadership, Mr. Mohan Rao effectively managed and coordinated volunteer teams working on diverse community development projects. He was responsible for organizing volunteer activities, ensuring that teams were well-prepared and motivated to contribute meaningfully to society’s goals.
• Strategic Partnerships: Mr. Mohan Rao played a key role in developing partnerships with other organizations and institutions. These collaborations allowed for the pooling of resources and expertise, enhancing the scope and impact of community initiatives.
• Policy Development Assistance: He worked closely with local government agencies to assist in the development and refinement of policies aimed at supporting community development. His contributions ensured that policies were aligned with the actual needs of the community and effectively addressed key issues.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Meetings: Mr. Mohan Rao organized and facilitated regular meetings with local stakeholders, including community leaders, government officials, and other key figures. These meetings were essential for discussing development initiatives, addressing community concerns, and fostering collaborative efforts.

Spiritual and Community Leadership with Viswa Vani and Jesus Followers

In addition to his leadership at the Viswa Vartha Seva Society, Mr. Mohan Rao made significant contributions through his involvement with Viswa Vani and Jesus Followers, where he took on a range of spiritual and community leadership roles:

• Spiritual Guidance and Counseling: Mr Mohan Rao provided spiritual direction and counselling to individuals, couples, families, and groups. His role involved offering support and guidance on personal and spiritual matters, helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and find solace and direction.
• Education in Pastoral Care: He played a crucial role in educating church staff on best practices related to pastoral care. His training ensured that staff members were equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to offer effective and compassionate support to the congregation.
• Seminars and Workshops: Mr. Mohan Rao organized and led weekly seminars on important topics such as marriage, parenting, and grief. These seminars provided valuable education and support, addressing common challenges and fostering personal growth within the community.
• Support for the Housebound: He made regular visits to housebound individuals, providing not only physical assistance but also social interaction and emotional support. His efforts helped to alleviate loneliness and offer comfort to those unable to participate in regular community activities.
• Charity and Fundraising Events: Mr. Mohan Rao organized and managed charity and fundraising events to support various causes. These events played a key role in raising funds and resources for important community and humanitarian projects, demonstrating his commitment to social welfare.
• Crisis and Support Services: He provided critical support to individuals going through difficult times, offering counselling, supplies, and housing as needed. His assistance was crucial for those facing personal crises and hardships, helping them to overcome challenges and rebuild their lives.
• Volunteer Engagement: Mr Mohan Rao was actively involved in coordinating volunteer efforts with various organizations. He was responsible for recruiting and training volunteers, ensuring they were prepared to contribute effectively to the organization’s mission. His efforts helped to mobilize community resources and enhance the impact of outreach initiatives.

Chairperson of Praja Sanghala Joint Action Committee (Since 2016)

Since taking on the role of Chairperson of the Praja Sanghala Joint Action Committee in 2016, Mr Mohan Rao has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to community service. His tenure has been marked by several impactful activities aimed at addressing pressing issues and improving the welfare of the local population:

• Providing Drinking Water to FILARIA Victims: Mr Mohan Rao spearheaded an important initiative to provide clean drinking water to approximately 4,000 residents in Pedapinki Village who were suffering from FILARIA. This effort was crucial in mitigating the health risks associated with contaminated water and ensuring that affected individuals had access to essential resources for their well-being.
• Advocacy for Kidney-Related Illnesses: Recognizing the severe challenges faced by individuals with kidney-related illnesses in Srirangapuram and Rajapuram, Mr Mohan Rao played a vital role in advocating for government intervention. His efforts brought attention to the urgent needs of these patients and facilitated increased support and resources from governmental and non-governmental agencies.
• Disaster Response Coordination: Mr. Mohan Rao was actively involved in disaster response activities, coordinating the transportation of materials between various locations. His effective management of logistics was instrumental in ensuring that relief supplies were distributed efficiently and reached those in need during emergencies.
• Organizing Charitable Events and Campaigns: Under his leadership, the committee organized a wide range of events, campaigns, and activities focused on charitable causes. These initiatives included fundraising events, awareness campaigns, and community outreach programs designed to support various social and humanitarian objectives.
• Ensuring Financial Assistance for Accident Victims: Mr. Mohan Rao worked diligently to secure financial assistance for families of individuals who were victims of accidents. His efforts provided critical support to those affected by unforeseen tragedies, helping them to manage the financial implications and access necessary resources for recovery.

Aspirant for Parvathipuram, TDP (2019)

In 2019, Mr. Mohan Rao pursued a political career with the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) as an aspirant for the Parvathipuram constituency. His candidacy was motivated by his commitment to addressing local issues and contributing to the region’s development. During his campaign, Mr. Mohan Rao focused on leveraging his extensive experience in community service and advocacy to drive positive change and represent the interests of the residents of  Parvathipuram. His aspirations reflected his dedication to public service and his desire to bring about meaningful improvements in the community through effective political leadership.

Family Participation in Politics: Jyothi Mohan Rao’s Contributions and Commitment

Mr. Mohan Rao’s family has also been actively involved in politics, further reflecting their commitment to public service and community development. His wife, Jyothi Mohan Rao, has made significant contributions to the political landscape, particularly within the Telugu Desam Party (TDP).

Jyothi Mohan Rao contested for the position of Zilla Parishad Territorial Constituency (ZPTC) in Makkuva, demonstrating her dedication to local governance and community issues. Her candidacy highlighted her active engagement in political affairs and her efforts to address the needs of her constituents.

In addition to her political candidacy, Jyothi Mohan Rao has been an ardent supporter of the TDP party, working tirelessly to advance the party’s objectives and contribute to its success. Her involvement has been marked by her commitment to the party’s principles and her active participation in various party activities, reflecting a shared family dedication to public service and political engagement.

Activities and Honors: Contributions to Community Welfare and Recognition

Activities:

• Management of Tribal Welfare Awareness Programs: Mr. Mohan Rao has played a crucial role in organizing and managing Tribal Welfare Awareness Programs, focusing particularly on the needs of Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities. These programs aimed to increase awareness about the rights, benefits, and opportunities available to these communities. Through workshops, seminars, and community meetings, Mr. Mohan Rao has worked diligently to educate individuals about social welfare schemes, legal protections, and resources designed to support their development and integration. His efforts have helped empower these communities by providing them with the knowledge and tools necessary to advocate for their rights and improve their quality of life.

Significant Activities and Contributions of Mr. Mohan Rao

• Active Participation in Dharma Porata Deeksha (2015-2016): Mr Mohan Rao played a key role in the Dharma Porata Deeksha, a significant movement aimed at addressing various socio-political issues. His active involvement included participating in rallies, supporting protest activities, and helping to raise awareness about the movement’s goals. This period marked his commitment to advocating for justice and necessary reforms, showcasing his dedication to addressing societal concerns.
• Dedication to Janasena Party (2022-2023): Over a year, Mr. Mohan Rao worked tirelessly for the Janasena Party. His efforts involved organizing party events, mobilizing grassroots support, and contributing to strategic planning. His hard work was crucial in advancing the party’s objectives and engaging with the community to build support for its initiatives.
• Independent MLA Candidacy (2023): In 2023, Mr. Mohan Rao ran as an Independent candidate for the position of Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA). Although he eventually withdrew from the race, his candidacy was a testament to his commitment to engaging in the political process and addressing the issues facing his constituency.
• Support for TDP MLA Bonela Vijaya Chandra (2024): Mr. Mohan Rao extended his support to TDP MLA Bonela Vijaya Chandra during the 2024 elections. His endorsement and active participation in the campaign helped to strengthen the TDP’s position and contributed to the electoral success of the party’s candidate.
• Influence and Relationships within TDP: Mr. Mohan Rao maintains a strong and influential relationship with key figures within the TDP party, including the Bobbili Rajulu family and Mines Minister RV Sujay Krishna Ranga Rao. His connections and influence within these circles have played a significant role in his political activities, enabling him to have a notable impact within the party.
• Advocacy for Special Status of Andhra Pradesh: In North Andhra, Mr. Mohan Rao, in collaboration with local pastors, actively advocated for the special status of Andhra Pradesh. His efforts included organizing and participating in campaigns, rallies, and public discussions to support the state’s demand for special status, reflecting his commitment to regional development and political advocacy.
• Participation in Kudu Guddu Program: During the tenure of Sr. NTR, Mr. Mohan Rao participated in the Kudu Guddu program, an initiative aimed at addressing various political and social issues. His involvement in this program contributed to its objectives and highlighted his engagement in significant political activities under Sr. NTR’s leadership.

Humanitarian and Developmental Contributions

• Assistance to Kerala During Cyclone Hudhud: In response to the devastation caused by Cyclone Hudhud, Mr Mohan Rao extended his support to the affected regions in Kerala. His efforts involved coordinating with relief agencies, mobilizing resources, and facilitating the distribution of essential supplies such as food, water, and clothing. Mr Mohan Rao’s proactive involvement was critical in providing timely assistance to those impacted by the cyclone, reflecting his dedication to humanitarian aid and disaster relief.
• Support Through Praja Sanghala Joint Action Committee: Leveraging his position as Chairperson of the Praja Sanghala Joint Action Committee, Mr. Mohan Rao played a pivotal role in organizing and implementing relief efforts during various crises. The committee, under his leadership, focused on addressing immediate community needs and coordinating with local and regional agencies to ensure effective distribution of aid and support. This included organizing food drives, emergency shelters, and other essential services to assist those in distress.

• Medical Camps: Mr. Mohan Rao was instrumental in organizing medical camps aimed at providing essential healthcare services to underserved and vulnerable populations. These camps offered a range of medical services, including health screenings, vaccinations, and preventive care. By addressing critical health needs and providing access to medical professionals, Mr. Rao’s initiatives helped improve community health and well-being, particularly in areas with limited access to healthcare facilities.
• Advocacy for Infrastructure Development:

 Mr. Mohan Rao was a strong advocate for infrastructure improvements, focusing on the development of roads and water plants within the Visakha railway zone. His advocacy efforts included lobbying for increased funding, working with government agencies, and rallying community support to address infrastructure deficiencies. His work aimed to enhance regional connectivity, improve access to essential services, and support overall economic development in the area.

• Support for Families Affected by Fires: Following fire disasters that impacted local communities, Mr. Rao provided substantial support to affected families. His assistance involved organizing relief efforts to offer immediate aid, such as temporary housing, clothing, and financial support. Additionally, Mr. Mohan Rao worked to help families rebuild their lives by coordinating with local organizations and government agencies to ensure they received the necessary resources and assistance for recovery.

Comprehensive COVID-19 Relief Efforts: Healthcare Support, Food, and Safety

• Distribution of 500 Beds in Loriss: Mr. Mohan Rao coordinated the delivery of 500 beds to Loriss, significantly enhancing the capacity of local healthcare facilities to accommodate COVID-19 patients. This effort was crucial in ensuring that hospitals had the necessary resources to provide adequate care and support to those affected by the pandemic.
• Food Distribution Initiatives: During the pandemic, Mr. Mohan Rao organized food distribution drives at Spark Hospitals and bus stops in Parvathipuram. These initiatives were designed to support individuals and families who faced food insecurity due to lockdowns and restrictions. His efforts included distributing essential food supplies and meal packages to those in need.
• Daily Food Donations: Through his organized efforts, Mr. Mohan Rao facilitated the donation of food to 300-400 people daily. This continuous support provided crucial sustenance to individuals and families impacted by the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic, helping to alleviate hunger and food shortages.
• Health and Hygiene Kit Distribution: In addition to food support, Mr Mohan Rao distributed health and hygiene kits that included masks, hand sanitisers, and disinfectants. These kits were essential in promoting health and safety, helping to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect vulnerable populations.
• Support for Frontline Workers: Recognizing the critical role of healthcare workers during the pandemic, Mr Mohan Rao organized initiatives to provide them with the necessary supplies and support. This included delivering personal protective equipment (PPE), food, and other essentials to frontline workers, ensuring they had the resources needed to continue their vital work.
• Community Awareness Campaigns: Mr Mohan Rao led efforts to raise awareness about COVID-19 prevention and safety measures. This included organizing informational sessions, distributing educational materials, and utilizing various communication channels to inform the public about best practices for preventing the spread of the virus.
• Emergency Relief for Vulnerable Groups: Mr. Mohan Rao focused on providing emergency relief to particularly vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. This support included organizing delivery services for essential supplies and healthcare assistance, ensuring that these groups had access to the resources they needed during the pandemic.

• Honours:

  Recognition by Local Christian Community Leaders: In acknowledgement of his outstanding contributions to both community development and spiritual upliftment, Mr Mohan Rao has received honours from local Christian community leaders. This recognition celebrates his leadership in fostering community growth through various development initiatives and his dedication to spiritual guidance and support. His work in enhancing community welfare and his commitment to providing spiritual counsel have earned him respect and admiration from those he has served, highlighting his impactful role in both secular and spiritual realms.