Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has introduced a new rule mandating the use of Odia for all official work carried out by government departments and public offices across the state. The directive covers official files, notices, circulars, letters, and internal communication at the state, district, and local levels. According to the government, the order applies strictly…
Bhubaneswar: President Droupadi Murmu has approved the conferment of gallantry and service awards on 70 personnel of the Indian Armed Forces ahead of India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations, recognising acts of exceptional bravery and distinguished service across the Army, Navy and Air Force. Among the honours, the Ashoka Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award, has…
Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s renowned Buddhist heritage sites—Ratnagiri, Udayagiri and Lalitgiri—collectively known as the Buddhist Triangle, have been included in India’s Tentative List for UNESCO World Heritage inscription. The development marks an important step towards securing global recognition for the ancient archaeological complex. The inclusion acknowledges the region’s historical and spiritual significance as a prominent centre of…
Bhubaneswar: The Union government on Thursday notified 33 questions for the upcoming Houselisting and Housing Census, scheduled to be conducted from April 1 to September 30, 2026. The exercise will form a key preparatory phase of the next national Census and aims to create a comprehensive database on housing conditions, household amenities, and assets across…
Bhubaneswar: India on Thursday observed Parakram Diwas to mark the 129th birth anniversary of legendary freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, remembering his pivotal role in India’s struggle for independence and his leadership of the Indian National Army (INA) against British colonial rule. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Netaji, highlighting several initiatives undertaken…
Bhubaneswar: Union Home Minister Amit Shah will visit Lucknow on January 24 to attend and address the ‘Uttar Pradesh Day’ celebrations as the chief guest. The event is expected to highlight the state’s cultural heritage, development initiatives, and governance reforms. During the programme, the Home Minister will launch the ‘One District One Cuisine’ scheme, an…
Bhubaneswar: Manipur, Meghalaya and Tripura on Sunday marked 54 years of statehood, commemorating their transition from Union Territories to full-fledged states in 1972 under the North-Eastern Areas (Reorganisation) Act. The day was observed with official messages, cultural programmes and reflections on the region’s journey and challenges. Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh called for unity…
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has announced plans for a comprehensive redevelopment of the Mahima Temple at Joranda, the principal seat of Mahima Dharma, aimed at enhancing its spiritual, cultural and tourism significance. As part of the proposed makeover, a new grand temple will be constructed over the existing Shunya Mandir, while preserving the core philosophical…
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…
Bhubaneswar: Breaking with long-standing tradition, the Republic Day 2026 celebrations on Kartavya Path will feature parade galleries named after some of India’s most iconic rivers, paying tribute to their central role in the nation’s civilisation, culture and economy. From the Ganga and Ghaghra in the north to the Godavari and Kaveri in the south, and…