Economic Survey 2025–26 Tabled in Parliament; India Remains Fastest-Growing Major Economy

Bhubaneswar: The Economic Survey 2025–26 was tabled in Parliament on Friday, presenting a comprehensive review of India’s economic performance over the past year and outlining priorities for the road ahead. Against a backdrop of global geopolitical fragmentation and economic uncertainty, the Survey described India as a resilient and stable bright spot in the world economy….

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Supreme Court Stays UGC’s 2026 Equity Regulations, Cites Risk of Misuse

Bhubaneswar: The Supreme Court on Monday stayed the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) 2026 regulations on equity committees, observing that the provisions were vague and susceptible to misuse, with the potential to create social divisions. A bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant put the regulations on hold after noting concerns over their narrow scope. The…

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Khandagiri Mela 2026 Sees Parking Fee Row, Artist Controversy Amid Heavy Footfall

Bhubaneswar:  The ongoing Khandagiri Magh Mela 2026 has been marked by controversy even as it continues to draw massive crowds for its religious rituals and cultural performances. The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued a show-cause notice to the leaseholder managing parking facilities at the mela after complaints of overcharging visitors, with fees reportedly almost…

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From Caste Exclusion to Global Recognition: New York Street Named After Dr. B. R. Ambedkar

Bhubaneswar: Once denied the basic right to drink water at school, Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar’s legacy today resonates far beyond India’s borders. In a symbolic global tribute, a stretch at the intersection of 61st Street and Broadway in Woodside, Queens, New York, has been named “Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Way.” Born into a Dalit family,…

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OHRC Directs Odisha Govt to Add Third Gender Option in OPSC Exam Forms

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Human Rights Commission (OHRC) has directed the state government to ensure the inclusion of a third gender/transgender option in application forms for examinations conducted by the Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC). The directive followed a petition filed by a third gender candidate, Sony Sil, who pointed out that the online application forms…

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Mumbai Bids Farewell to Iconic Parle Products Factory in Vile Parle

Bhubaneswar: Mumbai is set to lose one of its most cherished industrial landmarks as the iconic Parle Products factory in Vile Parle prepares to shut down, bringing an end to nearly 90 years of history. The factory, synonymous with Parle-G biscuits and generations of childhood memories, will make way for commercial redevelopment. Established in the…

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Khandagiri Jatra Shows Capped at 1,800 Seats; Organisers Brace for Losses but Comply

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…

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Opposition Targets Farmer Distress, Law-and-Order Issues; BJD Announces Statewide Protests in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Sunday announced a series of statewide protests, culminating in a massive public rally in Bhubaneswar on February 24, alleging farmer distress, delayed paddy procurement, and a breakdown of law and order under the BJP-led Odisha government. Addressing a press conference, senior BJD leaders Debi Prasad Mishra, Sanjay Das…

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Farhan Akhtar Puts Don 3 on Back Burner, Revives Jee Le Zaraa

Bhubaneswar: Filmmaker-actor Farhan Akhtar is in no hurry to fast-track Don 3 and has instead turned his attention back to Jee Le Zaraa, the road-trip drama that was announced in 2021 but later stalled. According to sources, fresh discussions are currently underway with the film’s leading ladies to revive the project, which is being developed…

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Government Extends Deadline for Aluminium Can Quality Norms, Relief for Beverage Makers

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…

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