Bhubaneswar: In a symbolic gesture of cultural pride and national support, Varanasi will gift traditional Banarasi sarees to the families of Indian cricketers ahead of the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup. The initiative will be facilitated through the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), highlighting India’s rich handloom heritage while extending moral support…
Bhubaneswar: In a significant step towards strengthening women’s empowerment, the Union Budget 2026 has proposed the establishment of girls’ hostels in every district across the country, aimed at improving access to education and ensuring safe accommodation for female students. The initiative is intended to address one of the key barriers to girls’ education—lack of secure…
Bhubaneswar: In a move aimed at strengthening women’s empowerment and digital inclusion, the Odisha government has announced the provision of smartphones, official identity cards, and a new uniform dress code for women associated with the Mission Shakti programme. Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida said the new dress code will come into effect from April 1,…
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: Dipti Mahapatra has created history by becoming the first transgender individual in Odisha to be selected for a PhD under the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in the Odia language at Utkal University. Her achievement marks a significant milestone for academic inclusion and representation of transgender scholars in higher education. Mahapatra will pursue research focused…
Bhubaneswar: Assistant Commandant Simran Bala of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) is set to create history at the Republic Day Parade on January 26, 2026, by becoming the first woman officer to lead an all-male CRPF contingent on Kartavya Path. At 26 years of age, Bala will command a contingent of over 140 male…
Bhubaneswar: India marked National Girl Child Day on January 24, reaffirming its commitment to promoting the rights, health, education and overall well-being of girls across the country. Observed annually since 2008, the day aims to raise awareness against gender-based discrimination and highlight the need to ensure equal opportunities for girls. Political leaders across party lines…
Bhubaneswar: New Delhi will witness a blend of military strength and cultural heritage during India’s Republic Day parade on January 26 along Kartavya Path, with the Indian Air Force set to showcase a special seven-aircraft flypast formation named “Sindoor.” According to Air Force Chief A.P. Singh, the formation symbolically recreates the Indian Air Force’s 2025…
Bhubaneswar: In a significant step towards gender inclusion in public transport, women drivers will soon operate the ‘Ama Bus’ service in Odisha. The decision was taken during a review meeting of the Ama Bus service chaired by Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra. As part of the initiative, 20 women will be sent to…
Bhubaneswar: Assam witnessed a landmark cultural moment with the grand staging of Bagurumba Dwhou 2026, a historic celebration of the Bodo community’s iconic Bagurumba, or butterfly dance. Held at Guwahati’s Sarusajai Stadium, the event brought together more than 10,000 Bodo artistes from all 81 Assembly constituencies across 23 districts, creating one of the largest synchronised…