New Odisha Age

India Eyes Curbs on Chinese Surveillance Firms in Major Digital Security Push

Bhubaneswar: In a significant step toward strengthening national security and safeguarding digital infrastructure, the Government of India is reportedly planning to impose restrictions on Chinese surveillance and networking equipment used across the country. The move is expected to impact major global players such as Hikvision, Dahua Technology, and TP-Link, whose products are widely deployed in…

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India Achieves Milestone as Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor at Kalpakkam Reaches Criticality

Bhubaneswar: In a major advancement for India’s nuclear energy programme, the indigenously developed Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam has successfully achieved criticality, marking a significant breakthrough in Stage-2 of India’s three-stage nuclear power strategy. The 500 MWe sodium-cooled fast reactor represents a crucial technological leap. It operates using mixed oxide (MOX) fuel—a combination…

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J.D. Birla Institute Celebrates its 11th Graduation Congregational Ceremony

Bhubaneswar: A sense of pride, achievement and new beginnings marked the 11th Graduation Congregational Ceremony of J.D. Birla Institute (JDBI), Kolkata, held on 14 February 2026 at the Vidya Mandir Auditorium. The ceremony celebrated the academic accomplishments of the Bachelors’ and Masters’ graduates of the 2024–2025 session. University dignitaries, members of the Vidya Mandir Society,…

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Odisha Mandates 24×7 Fire Safety Systems Across Buildings

Bhubaneswar: In a major step to strengthen public safety, the Government of Odisha has made it mandatory for all institutions and buildings to keep fire safety alert systems operational round-the-clock. The directive aims to ensure immediate emergency response and prevent fire-related disasters, particularly in critical establishments such as hospitals, offices and public facilities. Focus on…

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Explosion at Texas Refinery Raises Global Energy Concerns

Bhubaneswar: A massive explosion has been reported at the Valero Port Arthur Refinery, one of the most critical energy facilities in the United States, triggering emergency responses and raising fresh concerns over global fuel supply. Emergency Response and Safety Measures The blast sent thick black smoke into the sky, prompting authorities to issue shelter-in-place orders…

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Iran Imposes $2 Million Transit Fee, Threatens Closure of Strait of Hormuz

Bhubaneswar: Iran has announced a dramatic escalation in its maritime posture, declaring that select vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz will be charged a steep $2 million transit fee (approximately ₹18.7 crore). The move, reportedly already implemented, was confirmed by Iranian lawmaker Alaeddin Boroujerdi, a member of the country’s parliamentary national security committee, in…

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India Sends Emergency Aid to Kabul After Hospital Attack

Bhubaneswar: India on March 16 swiftly dispatched emergency humanitarian assistance to Kabul following reports of an attack on a rehabilitation hospital, underscoring its continued commitment to supporting the Afghan people. The aid package, sent via air, included essential medical supplies aimed at assisting victims and stabilising the immediate healthcare situation in the affected area. Officials…

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PM Modi Addresses Lok Sabha on West Asia Crisis, Assures Support for Indians Abroad

Bhubaneswar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday addressed the Lok Sabha regarding the escalating crisis in West Asia, which began on February 28 following joint military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran. Concerns Over Global Impact During his address, the Prime Minister said the continued bombings and military actions across the oil-rich…

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Centre Boosts Commercial LPG Supply to 50%, Easing Pressure on Food Sector

Bhubaneswar: In a major relief for the food and hospitality industry, the Government of India has increased the allocation of commercial LPG to up to 50% of the estimated demand, aiming to stabilise operations across the sector. The latest 20% hike in supply is targeted at supporting restaurants, dhabas, hotels, canteens, dairy units and community…

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India’s Pharmaceuticals: Strengthening Its Role as the “Pharmacy of the World”

Bhubaneswar: India has firmly established itself as the “Pharmacy of the World”, driven by a powerful combination of affordability, quality, and large-scale production capabilities. The country plays a critical role in ensuring access to essential medicines across both developed and developing nations. India’s pharmaceutical strength lies in its ability to produce cost-effective medicines without compromising…

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