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…
Bhubaneswar: Apple Inc. is preparing to roll out its digital payments service, Apple Pay, in India by late 2026, ending years of regulatory and operational delays in one of the world’s largest digital payments markets. India remains one of the few major economies where Apple Pay is yet to be officially launched. According to reports,…
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: Nuapada district in Odisha witnessed an unprecedented community mobilisation as more than 1.42 lakh people participated in a large-scale cleanliness and plantation drive, turning the spotlight on grassroots-led environmental action. In a coordinated effort lasting just two hours, residents from across the district—including school students, shopkeepers, women self-help group members, volunteers, and non-governmental organisations—joined…
Bhubaneswar: Footage circulating on social media from January 24 has shown Indian Army personnel attending a religious programme at Bageshwar Dham in Madhya Pradesh, where they were seen participating in a katha conducted by religious preacher Dhirendra Krishna Shastri. The visuals also show soldiers cutting cakes bearing the words “Sita Ram” and interacting with devotees…
Bhubaneswar: Dipti Mahapatra has created history by becoming the first transgender individual in Odisha to be selected for a PhD under the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in the Odia language at Utkal University. Her achievement marks a significant milestone for academic inclusion and representation of transgender scholars in higher education. Mahapatra will pursue research focused…