New Odisha Age

‘Historic Reform’: Shazia Ilmi Hails Women’s Reservation Law

Bhubaneswar: : Shazia Ilmi on Tuesday termed the passage of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam a “historic and revolutionary” step, stating that it will ensure one-third representation for women in legislative bodies across the country. Addressing the media, the BJP leader said that for nearly three decades, the proposed legislation faced repeated delays despite being…

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BMC Crackdown on Unauthorised Commercial Use Sparks Liveability vs Livelihood Debate

Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation’s planned city-wide survey to identify unauthorised commercial activities in residential areas has triggered a wider debate on urban liveability versus the survival of small businesses in Bhubaneswar. The move follows directions from the Supreme Court of India, which has asked civic bodies across state capitals to inspect and report violations…

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BMC to Survey Misuse of Residential Buildings for Commercial Activities

Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced a city-wide survey to identify residential properties being used for commercial purposes without proper authorization, in compliance with a directive from the Supreme Court of India. The apex court recently instructed municipal bodies across the country to inspect such violations while hearing a case related to an…

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Odisha Mining Corporation Pays ₹4,364 Crore Penalty for Illegal and Excess Mining

Bhubaneswar: State-run Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) has paid one of its largest-ever financial penalties—₹4,364 crore—for illegal and excess mineral production, raising serious concerns over regulatory compliance in Odisha’s mining sector. The penalties arise from violations of key environmental and forest laws, including the Environment Protection Act and the Forest Conservation Act, as well as breaches…

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Odisha Rolls Out ‘Super Premium’ Liquor Shops Under New Excise Policy

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has introduced a new category of high-end liquor outlets—‘Super Premium FL OFF shops’—as part of its latest excise policy, aiming to modernize retail and cater to premium consumers. The outlets will be set up in six major cities, including Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Rourkela, Berhampur, Sambalpur and Puri. According to the policy, these…

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Viral Post Highlights Eco-Friendly Practices at Nandankanan Zoo

Bhubaneswar: A social media post by Manas Muduli on X has gone viral, bringing widespread attention to the eco-conscious initiatives at Nandankanan Zoological Park. The post, which has garnered over 110,000 views, showcases simple yet effective measures adopted by the zoo to curb plastic waste and promote environmental responsibility among visitors. Calling it “one of…

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India Launches Census 2027 First Phase with Digital Self-Enumeration Portal

Bhubaneswar: The Government of India has officially launched the first phase of Census 2027, introducing a major digital reform through a Self-Enumeration portal that allows citizens to submit their details online. The initiative, rolled out under the supervision of the Ministry of Home Affairs, marks the beginning of the Houselisting and Housing Census, with select…

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10 Dead in ICU Fire at SCB Medical College in Cuttack; Judicial Probe Ordered

Bhubaneswar: A tragic fire at the Trauma Care Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of SCB Medical College and Hospital claimed the lives of 10 patients and left several hospital staff injured during rescue operations in the early hours of March 16. The blaze reportedly broke out while critically ill patients were undergoing treatment, triggering panic within…

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States Intensify Raids to Curb LPG Black Marketing and Hoarding

Bhubaneswar: State governments across India have stepped up enforcement measures to curb black marketing and hoarding of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), with authorities carrying out continuous raids and surprise inspections at LPG distributorships and retail outlets. According to Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, state administrations are playing a…

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‘Left Zone Free’ Drive Launched to Ease Emergency Movement in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: Bhubaneswar–Cuttack Police Commissionerate has launched a new traffic initiative titled ‘Left Zone Free’ in Bhubaneswar to ensure faster movement of ambulances and other emergency vehicles through the city’s busy roads. The campaign was rolled out at 40 traffic posts across the capital, where motorists are being urged to keep the left lane clear at…

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