Bhubaneswar: The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has launched a new organic farming initiative called “Vermi Wash,” aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing dependence on chemical fertilisers. Described as a “natural way to feed your farm,” Vermi Wash is a bio-liquid fertiliser derived from vermicompost units. Officials said the initiative is expected to…
Bhubaneswar: While mango varieties such as Alphonso and Dussehri dominate national markets and conversations, Odisha continues to nurture a wide range of indigenous mango varieties that have been preserved through generations of traditional cultivation practices. Among the most widely preferred native varieties is Bombai, especially popular across coastal Odisha for its sweetness, aroma, and juicy…
Bhubaneswar: ORMAS has launched the “Summer Delight” watermelon fair in Bhubaneswar, bringing together farm-fresh watermelons and value-added products from 15 Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) representing 10 districts of Odisha. The 11-day fair, being held from May 7 to May 17, is expected to facilitate the sale of nearly 150 tonnes of watermelon and generate business…
Bhubaneswar: Blossom Kochhar Aroma Magic, the premier aromatherapy company in India, proudly announced the relaunch of its iconic range of essential oils, now presented in an all-new, elegant avatar. Dr. Blossom Kochhar, Founder and Chairperson of Blossom Kochhar Group of Companies, while addressing a press conference in Bhopal, spoke about the essential oils and also…
Bhubaneswar: A recent study by wildlife researchers Rajkishore Swain, Sandesh Behera, and Subhani Rath has highlighted growing threats to honeybee diversity in Odisha due to habitat loss, climate change, and excessive pesticide use. The study notes that honeybees contribute to over 70% of pollination in certain crops and ornamental plants in Bhubaneswar, underlining their critical…
Bhubaneswar: Amid soaring temperatures across Odisha, the Panchpatmali hills in Koraput district are drawing attention for their unusually cool, lush, and mist-covered landscape—often compared to the scenic beauty of Kashmir. Despite nearby regions experiencing heat levels touching 40°C, the Panchpatmali range remains green and refreshing. The area’s dense vegetation and natural moisture help maintain its…
Bhubaneswar: Early weather projections indicate a possible low-pressure system forming over the southeast Bay of Bengal during the second week of May, with potential to intensify into a cyclonic storm. According to the Global Forecast System (GFS), the system may develop between May 11 and 15. However, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has not confirmed…
Bhubaneswar: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed a major regulatory shift mandating plastic-free packaging for pan masala, gutka, and similar products. Under a draft amendment to the Food Safety and Standards Packaging Regulations 2018, these products would be allowed to be packed only in eco-friendly materials such as paper, paperboard,…
Bhubaneswar: The Government of Odisha has officially notified the Treated Used Water Policy 2026, marking a major step toward sustainable water management and circular economy practices. The policy sets ambitious targets, including achieving 100% treatment of used water across all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) by 2030. It also outlines a phased reuse roadmap, aiming for…
Bhubaneswar: In a unique initiative, the Bhubaneswar Commissionerate Police has started playing soft, soothing music at 32 major traffic intersections across Bhubaneswar to ease commuter stress, especially during long waits and ongoing heatwave conditions. The system operates through Public Address Systems integrated with CCTV networks and is centrally controlled. Along with music, authorities are also…