Bhubaneswar: In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court has recognised menstrual health as an integral part of the fundamental right to life and dignity under Article 21 of the Constitution. The Court directed all schools—both government and private—to ensure adequate menstrual hygiene facilities for students. The apex court mandated the provision of separate and functional…
Bhubaneswar: The Economic Survey 2025–26, tabled in Parliament on January 29 by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, has raised serious concerns over rising digital addiction among children and recommended age-based restrictions on access to online platforms. Chief Economic Adviser (CEA) V. Anantha Nageswaran described digital platforms as “predatory by design,” arguing that their algorithms and features…
Bhubaneswar: Renowned sand artist and Padma Shri awardee Sudarsan Pattnaik has created a powerful sand art installation at Gopalpur beach using 500 kilograms of discarded plastic bottles, delivering a strong message against single-use plastic. Sharing images of the artwork on social media, Pattnaik wrote, “500 kg of plastic bottles transformed into a powerful message from…
Bhubaneswar: The Commissionerate Police have imposed a cap of 1,800 seats per show at Khandagiri Jatra pandals as part of enhanced safety arrangements for the annual festival. The directive, issued by the Deputy Commissioner of Police, aims to ensure crowd safety and smoother movement within the venues. As per the new guidelines, Jatra pandals must…
Bhubaneswar: In a significant relief to alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage manufacturers, the Centre has extended the implementation timeline of mandatory quality norms for aluminium cans used in food and beverages. The move is expected to ease supply constraints ahead of the peak summer season. The extension has been granted under the Cookware, Utensils and Cans…
Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s recent ban on the manufacture and sale of pan masala, gutkha, khaini and other food items containing tobacco or nicotine was projected as a strong public health intervention. However, ground realities suggest that the move has exposed a major loophole, allowing other equally harmful smokeless and traditional tobacco products to flourish unchecked, particularly…
Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s tableau at the Republic Day Parade 2026 on Kartavya Path offered a vivid portrayal of the state’s transformation, blending its ancient heritage with inclusive growth and modern technological ambition. Presented under the theme “Soil to Silicon: Rooted in Tradition, Rising with Innovation,” the tableau reflected Odisha’s evolving role in India’s journey towards Atmanirbhar…
Bhubaneswar: The Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) has proposed restricting the entry of non-Hindus into the revered Badrinath and Kedarnath temples, along with other shrines under its jurisdiction, citing the need to protect religious traditions and sanctity. The proposal was discussed during a meeting of temple authorities held on Sunday. BKTC chairman Hemant Dwivedi said…
Bhubaneswar: A new cultural phenomenon known as “bhajan clubbing” is reshaping how India’s Gen Z engages with spirituality, blending ancient devotional traditions with the energy and aesthetics of modern live music. Across major cities, young people are gathering in packed venues to sing, dance and chant to remixed bhajans and kirtans, set against electronic beats,…
Bhubaneswar: The 11-day Adivasi Mela, one of Odisha’s largest showcases of tribal culture, began in Bhubaneswar on Sunday with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurating the event and urging members of the tribal community to become educated and aware of their constitutional and legal rights. The annual fair highlights the lifestyle, art, craft, cuisine and…