New Odisha Age

Odisha Introduces Performance-Based Incentives for Ama Bus Staff to Enhance Safety and Service Quality

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has approved a performance-based incentive scheme for Ama Bus captains (drivers) and guides (conductors), aimed at strengthening road safety, improving passenger convenience, and upgrading workforce skills. The scheme will come into effect from January 26, with incentives disbursed on a quarterly basis based on evaluations of safe driving practices and overall…

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DGCA Slaps ₹22.2 Crore Fine on IndiGo Over December Disruptions

Bhubaneswar: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has imposed a penalty of ₹22.2 crore on IndiGo Airlines for large-scale operational disruptions reported in December, the aviation regulator said in a statement on Saturday. According to the DGCA, the fine includes a penalty of ₹3 lakh per day for 68 days, amounting to ₹20.4 crore,…

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Karnataka Govt Clears International, IPL Matches at Chinnaswamy Stadium

Bhubaneswar: The Karnataka Home Department on Saturday granted permission to the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) to resume hosting international and Indian Premier League (IPL) matches at Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium, marking a significant step toward the venue’s return to high-profile cricket. In a statement, the KSCA said the approval is subject to strict compliance…

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Zero Admissions in 10 Degree Colleges Trigger State Probe in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: At least 10 degree colleges across eight districts of Odisha have recorded zero admissions in the 2025–26 academic session, prompting the state government to order a detailed inquiry into the matter. The development has raised concerns over the quality, governance, and long-term viability of several higher education institutions in the state. Odisha has around…

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Odisha Mandates Use of Odia Language for All Official Work

Bhubaneswar: In a decisive move to promote linguistic pride and strengthen the use of the state’s official language, the Odisha government has mandated that all official work in government offices be carried out exclusively in Odia. The directive was issued on Wednesday by the General Administration Department, making strict compliance compulsory across all levels of…

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NMC Withdraws MBBS Admission Approval for SMVD Institute in Reasi Amid Faculty Shortages, Sparks Political Debate

Bhubaneswar: The National Medical Commission (NMC) has withdrawn permission for Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence (SMVDIME), Reasi, to admit 50 MBBS students for the 2025–26 academic session, citing serious deficiencies flagged during an inspection conducted in January 2026. According to official sources, the inspection found significant shortfalls in key areas, including inadequate…

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IPL 2026: Bengaluru Stadium Ruled Unsafe Pending Major Upgrades, RCB to Play Home Games Outside Karnataka

Bhubaneswar: A judicial probe has declared Bengaluru’s premier cricket venue fundamentally unsafe for hosting large-scale events, effectively ruling it out of the IPL 2026 season until extensive safety upgrades are completed. The findings have forced defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to make alternate arrangements for their home fixtures in the upcoming edition of the…

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SJTA Issues New SOP to Streamline Protocol Darshan, Tightens Discipline at Shree Jagannath Temple

Bhubaneswar: The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has introduced a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to streamline protocol darshan and reinforce discipline within the sacred temple premises, following a recent controversy linked to protocol arrangements. Under the revised SOP, the entire responsibility for managing protocol guests will rest with the SJTA, aimed at ensuring better…

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Odisha Issues Directive to Check Prolonged Absenteeism, Strengthen Child Protection in Schools

Bhubaneswar: In a significant move to safeguard child rights and ensure continuity in elementary education, the Directorate of Elementary Education (DEE), Odisha, has issued a fresh directive mandating proactive intervention in cases of prolonged student absenteeism. As per an official notification dated January 8, 2026, all District Education Officers (DEOs) and Block Education Officers (BEOs)…

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Odisha Suspends Pollution Fines at Toll Gates Until April 1

Bhubaneswar: In a relief to vehicle owners, the Odisha government has decided to suspend the imposition of fines for pollution norm violations at toll gates until April 1, acknowledging the practical difficulties faced by motorists in obtaining valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates. Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena has directed the State Transport…

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