PM Modi Cites BJP’s Civic Poll Gains While Launching Kaziranga Elevated Corridor Project

Bhubaneswar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday highlighted the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) strong performance in recent civic body elections while inaugurating the ₹6,957-crore Kaziranga Elevated Corridor project, underscoring what he described as growing public support for the party across states. Referring to Maharashtra’s municipal polls, the Prime Minister said the BJP emerged as the…

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Odisha to Get Six New Amrit Bharat Express Trains, Boosting Long-Distance Rail Connectivity

Bhubaneswar: Indian Railways is set to significantly enhance long-distance rail connectivity through Odisha with the introduction of six new Amrit Bharat Express services, taking the total number of such trains operating through the state to seven. Currently, Odisha is served by a single Amrit Bharat Express running between Berhampur and Udhna in Gujarat. According to…

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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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Republic Day Parade 2026 to Showcase Military Might After Operation Sindoor

Bhubaneswar: The first Republic Day Parade to be held after Operation Sindoor last year is set to present a powerful display of India’s military strength, indigenisation drive, and cultural heritage, officials said on Saturday. The event assumes added significance following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s strong endorsement of “Make in India” defence platforms and drones that…

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India Overtakes China to Become World’s Largest Rice Producer

Bhubaneswar: India has emerged as the world’s largest rice producer, surpassing China and underscoring the scale, resilience, and diversity of its agrarian economy. With total rice production estimated at 1,245.04 lakh tonnes, the milestone reflects strong performance by several high-output states supported by favourable agro-climatic conditions and sustained policy backing. Agriculture officials attribute India’s rise…

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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 Government Unveils Incentive Scheme to Promote Authentic Odia Cuisine Nationwide

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has introduced a dedicated support framework to promote authentic Odia cuisine restaurants within the state and across major Indian cities, aiming to strengthen the region’s culinary identity and expand its national footprint. Under the revised Odisha Tourism Policy–2026, restaurants serving traditional Odia food will be eligible for capital expenditure (CAPEX) support…

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Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi Announces National School of Drama Branch in Keonjhar

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday announced the establishment of a state branch of the National School of Drama (NSD) in Keonjhar district, a move aimed at strengthening regional theatre education and preserving the state’s rich cultural heritage. The announcement was made during the inauguration of a theatre workshop jointly organised by…

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