Bhubaneswar: The Calcutta High Court on January 27 directed the West Bengal government to hand over land already acquired for Indo-Bangladesh border fencing to the Border Security Force (BSF) by March 31, 2026, asserting that national security cannot be subordinated to electoral or administrative delays. The order was passed by a division bench headed by…
Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday inaugurated the Silver Jubilee (25th edition) of Enterprise Odisha 2026, marking a major thrust towards accelerated industrialisation in Western Odisha, which he described as the “core engine” of the state’s economic growth. Emphasising balanced regional development, MSME expansion and large-scale job creation, the Chief Minister said…
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: The Budget Session of Parliament began on Monday with an address by President Droupadi Murmu to members of both Houses, setting the tone for the government’s policy priorities and legislative agenda for the months ahead. In keeping with parliamentary tradition, the President’s address laid out the broad policy direction and collective resolve guiding India’s…
Bhubaneswar: In a major relief for commuters, the Odisha government has withdrawn its controversial “No PUCC, No Petrol” directive following strong observations by the Orissa High Court, which questioned both the feasibility and legality of the move. In an affidavit submitted before the court, the state clarified that while petrol pumps may ask motorists to…
Bhubaneswar: In a major milestone for Odisha’s agricultural sector, fresh strawberries grown in Dhenkanal district have been exported to London for the first time, marking a new chapter in the state’s horticulture history. A total of 52 kilograms of fresh strawberries cultivated in Neelakanthapur village under Bhuban block and Ramei Khamar village under Gandia block…
Bhubaneswar: Five people were killed on Tuesday morning after a small aircraft crash-landed and caught fire while en route from Mumbai to Baramati, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed. The incident occurred at around 8:45 am, when the plane broke apart after coming down in a field and burst into flames. According to…
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,…
