Bhubaneswar: A publicity chariot was flagged off on Thursday to promote the 20th edition of the Toshali Swadeshi Mela, scheduled to be held from February 14 to 26 at Janata Maidan, Bhubaneswar. The mela aims to showcase indigenous handlooms, handicrafts and local products under the theme “Swadeshi and Atmanirbhar.” The promotional campaign was inaugurated at…
Bhubaneswar: In Bisimatri village of Odisha’s Puri district, a group of nearly 50 rural women has transformed eco-friendly craftsmanship into a sustainable livelihood, building a successful jute-based enterprise that has brought financial independence and social empowerment to their community. The initiative began in 2015, when artisan mentor Amiya Poddar introduced local women—many of whom were…
Bhubaneswar: In a significant policy overhaul aimed at curbing monopolies and controlling prices, the Odisha government has notified new rules for leasing minor minerals, including sand and stone, replacing the earlier auction-based system with a computerised e-lottery mechanism. Under the revised framework, mineral leases will now be allotted through an online, transparent e-lottery, a move…
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has launched the second phase of its luxury caravan tourism initiative, aiming to offer travelers premium, hotel-like comfort on wheels while promoting experiential and destination-based tourism across the state. The new phase was flagged off from the Dhauli hills, with three luxury caravans introduced into service. Each caravan is equipped with…
Bhubaneswar: India is set to host the first-ever Global Big Cat Summit in 2026, bringing together representatives from 95 countries to strengthen international cooperation on wildlife conservation. The summit will focus on the protection of big cat species, conservation of their natural habitats, and enhanced global collaboration to combat poaching and illegal wildlife trade. It…
Bhubaneswar: India has announced plans to establish dedicated Rare Earth Corridors across Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala, marking a significant step in strengthening the country’s position in the global critical minerals landscape. The corridor-based approach is aimed at building an integrated ecosystem for the exploration, processing, and downstream manufacturing of rare earth elements,…
Bhubaneswar: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday said that India aims to utilise 100 per cent of its solid waste in road construction by 2027, marking a major push towards sustainable and environmentally responsible infrastructure development. Speaking about ongoing initiatives, Gadkari said that around 80 lakh tonnes of waste have…
Bhubaneswar: Nandankanan Zoological Park in Odisha has reported a worrying spate of animal deaths, with eight animals dying within a span of just eight days, raising concerns among wildlife experts and animal welfare advocates. According to zoo authorities, the deaths include five crocodiles, two white peacocks, and one mouse deer. Preliminary assessments suggest that the…
Bhubaneswar: In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court has recognised menstrual health as an integral part of the fundamental right to life and dignity under Article 21 of the Constitution. The Court directed all schools—both government and private—to ensure adequate menstrual hygiene facilities for students. The apex court mandated the provision of separate and functional…
Bhubaneswar: In a conservation-focused initiative, the Forest Department has installed salt licks across forest areas in Nayagarh to support the health and sustainability of the blackbuck population. Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Debarchan Behera said the salt licks are meant to provide essential sodium chloride to wild animals, which is often deficient in their natural diet….