Bhubaneswar: The Central Government has announced a temporary exemption of all customs duties on cotton imports from June 1, 2026, to October 31, 2026, to augment the availability of cotton for the domestic textile industry. The decision is aimed at ensuring adequate raw material supply for textile and apparel manufacturers while addressing concerns over cotton…
Bhubaneswar: The Central government has highlighted the transformative impact of the PM Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) scheme, describing it as a major initiative that has helped street vendors transition from survival to self-reliance through access to formal credit and financial inclusion. According to the government, the scheme has significantly strengthened business sustainability and…
Bhubaneswar: The Orissa High Court has ruled that candidates appearing for NEET cannot claim “dual educational privileges” by combining academic credentials from different educational boards to secure eligibility benefits for MBBS admissions. The court dismissed a petition filed by a candidate who sought to combine marks obtained from the Odisha State Board and the National…
BHUBANESWAR: Fish and seafood prices have witnessed a sharp increase across Odisha as the annual fishing ban imposed during the breeding season continues to restrict marine fishing activities along the state’s coastline. The prohibition, enforced every year from April 15 to June 14, is aimed at protecting fish breeding and ensuring sustainable fish production in…
Bhubaneswar: The Central government is reportedly exploring the possibility of using aircraft of the Indian Air Force to transport question papers for the upcoming NEET-UG retest, as part of efforts to prevent leaks and ensure maximum security during the examination process. The proposal comes in the aftermath of the NEET-UG paper leak controversy that led…
BHUBANESWAR: The rising cost of fuel and cooking gas is putting additional pressure on household budgets across Odisha, with transportation expenses increasing by nearly 10 percent and triggering a sharp rise in the prices of vegetables and other essential kitchen commodities. Traders said recent increases in petrol, diesel and LPG prices have significantly raised transportation…
Bhubaneswar: Renovation and beautification works at the Gundicha Temple are progressing rapidly, with the Shri Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) aiming to complete all restoration projects before the upcoming Ratha Yatra. SJTA Chief Administrator Arabinda Padhee reviewed the ongoing development works at the temple premises along with senior officials on Tuesday. The team inspected various infrastructure…
Bhubaneswar: The Government of India has launched the National e-Governance Service Delivery Assessment (NeSDA) 2025 portal aimed at strengthening digital governance and improving the delivery of online public services across the country. The National e-Governance Service Delivery Assessment framework evaluates the depth, effectiveness and quality of online service delivery platforms operated by States, Union Territories…
Bhubaneswar: The South East Central Railway has installed water misting systems at several major railway stations to provide relief to passengers during the ongoing heatwave conditions across central India. The cooling systems spray a fine mist of water across station platforms, helping reduce surrounding temperatures and improve comfort levels for passengers waiting for trains, particularly…
Bhubaneswar: The Ministry of Ayush has announced that Kolkata will host the main national event for the International Day of Yoga 2026 (#IDY2026), with this year’s theme finalised as “Yoga for Healthy Aging.” The announcement was made during the 25-day countdown programme to International Day of Yoga held at Khajuraho Group of Monuments, where thousands…