Rajnath Singh criticises Congress, BJD for stalled development in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: Defence Minister and senior BJP leader Rajnath Singh on Sunday targeted the ruling BJD and Congress while addressing a mega public meeting in Rairakhol. Congress ruled Odisha for 50 years while BJD for 25 years. But Odisha has not developed much in the last 75 years as poverty is yet to be eradicated. [] The post Rajnath Singh criticises Congress, BJD for stalled development in Odisha appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

Ex-BJD min Samir Dash joins BJP with his supporters

Bhubaneswar, May 19 (UNI) Former BJD Minister and three-time MLA from Nimapara Assembly seat Samir Ranjan Dash, who on Sunday resigned from the primary membership of the party, joined the BJP with hundreds of his supporters. Das was unhappy and expressed his resentment when the party denied him a party ticket to contest the 2024... The post Ex-BJD min Samir Dash joins BJP with his supporters first appeared on Central India's Premier English Daily .

Nimapara MLA Samir Dash switches to BJP

Bhubaneswar: Nimapara MLA on Sunday joined BJP at a special function held at Bhubaneswar. Dash was reportedly upset after he was not given ticket by BJD to contest the 2024 elections from his constituency. Dash was denied a ticket and it subsequently triggered resentment among his supporters. Prior to his joining BJP, Dash said [] The post Nimapara MLA Samir Dash switches to BJP appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

CM Naveen Patnaik's 'tourist jibe will cost BJD, says BJP

BHUBANESWAR: A day after Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik termed top BJP leaders and his counterparts from BJP-ruled states campaigning in the state political tourists, the saffron party came down on BJD for disrespecting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his cabinet colleagues. Addressing three separate meetings of BJP workers in Bhubaneswar, Kendrapara and Balasore, the top five leaders of the party held a first-of-its-kind roadshow in Balasore to put up an united face. The leaders- state BJP president Manmohan Samal, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, national vice-president Baijayant Panda, Bhubaneswar MP Aparajita Sarangi and Balasore MP Pratap Sarangi told party workers that BJPs victory in Odisha is certain as the people of the state are fighting the ongoing elections for the party. The BJP is going to form the next government in the state. The chief minister will get a fitting reply from people for terming the prime minister a political tourist. Samal said the BJP will show BJD how development can be achieved in five years. The BJP will take the state to the pinnacle of progress under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said. Dubbing the BJD government as lethargic and corrupt, Pradhan said the prime minister has appealed people of the state to give a chance to BJP as BJD has failed them in every front even after getting popular mandate for five consecutive terms. He (Modi) has also given the guarantee to make Odisha the number one state. Panda said BJD has turned out to be a two leader party as none of its leaders are visible. The prime minister has given the desired push. It is for the BJP workers to capitalise on the goodwill of Modi to bring the party to power. Sarangi said the thin crowd at the chief ministers roadshow in the state capital gives the impression people have lost interest in this government.

BJP a factory of lies, BJD retorts

BHUBANESWAR: The BJD on Saturday hit out at BJP accusing it of spreading lies about Srimandir Parikrama Prakalpa in Puri. The regional party also said that Ratna Bhandar will be opened in July this year. Addressing mediapersons at Sankha Bhawan, BJD Lok Sabha candidate for Berhampur Bhrugu Buxipatra slammed the BJP leaders for playing petty politics over Parikrama project and accused them of being in the habit of lying. Buxipatra said there is no truth in the claims of BJP that Rs 4,500 crore has been spent on project. The state government has spent only Rs 325 crore for the Parikrama project and has set aside another Rs 4,200 crore for the overall development of Shrikhetra under Abhada scheme. Work on these projects is still continuing, he said. He said, the Srimandir Ratna Bhandar will open in July. A committee headed by a retired Supreme Court justice has been formed to look into the matter. The committee has already convened its first meeting in May last year, he added. Buxipatra also criticised BJP chief ministers and central ministers terming them as political tourists. These political tourists have no idea about Odisha. They are saying whatever they are being fed by their party leaders in the state, he said while claiming that there will be no sighting of these leaders once the elections are over in the next 15 days and that they will turn up again in 2029. The BJD leader also accused the saffron party leaders of insulting people of the state and causing damage to Odia culture through their rude and derogatory remarks.

Look at your own states first: CM Naveen to visiting BJP counterparts

BHUBANESWAR: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Saturday hit out at his counterparts from BJP-ruled states, who during their campaign here are reiterating party promise to make Odisha no 1, saying they should look at their own states before commenting on the state. In a video message, Naveen said,They are making a lot of promises which include making Odisha number one state in the country. But people of the state are laughing at them. He advised the BJP chief ministers to concentrate on their own states first. Particularly taking a dig at Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who has been aggressive in his speeches, Naveen said,The per capita deficit of Assam is double than that of Odisha. The Assam chief minister should really look into the matters of his own state. This is for the second time that the chief minister has taken on the visiting BJP leaders in two days. On Friday, he had stated that some chief ministers and Union ministers come to Odisha as political tourists only at the time of elections. Their speeches have no effect on the people of Odisha.

PM Modi roadshow in Puri on May 20

BHUBANESWAR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will arrive on a two-day visit to the state for his third leg of campaign for BJP. The prime minister will arrive here on Sunday evening and make a night halt at Raj Bhawan. The next morning he will leave for Puri at 7 am and have darshan of Lord Jagannath at Srimandir. After paying obeisance to the Trinity, the prime minister will hold a roadshow from Singhadwar to Medical Chhak from 7.30 am. After the roadshow, Modi will leave for Angul where he will address an election rally at 9.30 am at Angul stadium. He will address another Vijay Sankalp rally at Killa Padia in Cuttack at around 11.30 am. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will also arrive on a days visit to the state on Sunday. He will address three public meetings, the first at Naktideul near Rairakhol at 10 am, the second at Keonjhar Patna at 11.40 am and the last at Khurda at 1.30 pm.

Campaign ends for State's Ph-II poll, 102 CAPF units to be deployed

BHUBANESWAR: Curtains came down on the high-pitched campaign for five Lok Sabha constituencies and 35 Assembly segments that will go to polls in the states second phase on May 20. Voting will be held in Aska, Bargarh, Balangir, Kandhamal and Sundargarh Parliamentary constituencies and the Assembly seats under them. This round will also seal Chief Minister Naveen Patnaiks fate in two constituencies of Hinjili under Aska and Kantabanji under Balangir Lok Sabha seats. Keeping in view the pre-poll violence reported from several parts in the last few days, the Election Commission of India has ordered deployment of 102 companies of central armed police forces (CAPFs) for the phase. Chief electoral officer Nikunja Bihari Dhal said around 20 per cent of the 9,162 polling booths in phase two have been identified as critical while there is provision of web-casting in 60 per cent of the booths. Accordingly, 22 companies of CAPFs will be deployed in Maoist-affected Kandhamal district, while 20 will guard Ganjam. This apart 16 companies will be deployed in Sundargarh, 14 each in Bargarh and Bolangir, five each in Jharsuguda and Boudh, four in Sonepur and two in Nayagarh, he said. The pre-election violence in Ganjam district is a matter of concern. Police have already registered a case and apprehended some of the accused, while hunt is on to arrest the remaining persons. Clear instructions have been issued to police to act fast and restore normalcy at the earliest whenever such incidents occur, Dhal said. He said an additional DGP rank officer has already been appointed to oversee law and order arrangements in Ganjam, especially Aska Parliamentary constituency in view of pre-poll violence in Khalikote. A total of 79.69 lakh voters, including 40.33 lakh men and 39.35 lakh women, will exercise their franchise at 9,162 polling stations in the second phase to decide the fate of 265 MLA and 40 MP candidates. Around 1,541 will be model polling stations, while 1,041 will be managed by all-women personnel and 25 by differently-abled staff and officials. The ECI has appointed 10 general observers, 15 expenditure observers and three police observers for the phase. An air ambulance will be kept on standby at Balangir for emergency. With IMD predicting rise in temperature on May 20, the CEO said adequate drinking water, ORS and essential medicines will be made available at each polling station. Besides, paramedical staff, ASHA workers, ambulances and mobile health units will also be deployed, he said. In 2019, Bargarh Lok Sabha seat had recorded 77.87 per cent turnout, followed by Sundargarh at 71.67pc, Balangir at 74.75pc, Kandhamal 72.90pc and Aska 65.53pc. This time too we are taking various steps to ensure maximum voter turnout in these constituencies, the CEO said.

Orissa HC sets June 26 date for decongesting jails in State

CUTTACK: The Orissa High Court has set June 26 as deadline for the state government to ensure decongestion of Bhubaneswar special jail, Jajpur district jail and the Bhadrak district jail. The high court had set the deadline on Friday after taking note of deputy inspector general (DIG) Prisons Gariba Sahus affidavit which said 20 jails in the state are overcrowded and three of them at Jajpur, Bhadrak and Bhubaneswar were constantly accommodating inmates much more than their capacity. In the other 17 jails, overcrowding was a temporary phenomenon due to sudden rise in under-trial prisoners (UTPs) remanded by the courts in new cases, Sahu said in the affidavit. The division bench of Chief Justice Chakradhari Sharan Singh and Justice MS Raman observed, The affidavit discloses a very gloomy picture concerning overcrowding in jails. It has been stated by the state authorities. We shall pass appropriate orders in this regard in the next date (June 26), if in the meanwhile there is no satisfactory progress in the situation. The bench was taking stock of the progress in tackling overcrowding as part of adjudication on a PIL on problems in jails of the state filed by Krushna Prasad Sahoo in 2006. In the affidavit, the DIG Prisons said, To decongest the three overcrowded jails, construction of three new jails with higher scheduled accommodation is underway. As an urgent measure to reduce overcrowding, inmates of the rest of the overcrowded jails are being shifted to nearby less populated jails in regular manner after obtaining permission from concerned courts. As on May 15, 2024, the Bhubaneswar special jail had 46 per cent excess population with 1,345 inmates against a capacity to accommodate 991.With 199 inmates against a capacity of 133, the Jajpur district jail has 44 per cent excess. As for Bhadrak district jail which had a capacity to accommodate 201 there were 266 inmates, burdened with 32 per cent more inmates. In the case of Kamakhyanagar sub-jail there was 97 per cent overcrowding with 136 inmates against the capacity of 69, the affidavit stated. The affidavit further said that additional wards have been constructed in 23 jails during 2020-23 enhancing the total prison capacity by 2,240. Additional wards are under construction in 23 jails to enhance capacity by 1,625 inmates for further mitigating the problem of overcrowding, the DIG Prisons stated. The 87 jails in the state have a capacity of accommodating 23,656 prisoners. At present, there are 18,497 inmates, 14,907 (80 pc) of them are UTPs.

Odisha Crime Branch issues advisory on online investment frauds

BHUBANESWAR: The Crime Branch of Odisha Police on Saturday issued an advisory for citizens on online investment frauds that promise lucrative returns to investors. In 2023, CID-CB had registered about 22 cases in connection with online investment frauds amounting to Rs 8.5 crore. Such crimes witnessed a sharp jump in the state this year. The agency has already registered 25 cases of online investment frauds amounting to a whopping Rs 17 crore in the last four months. The Crime Branch pointed out that in recent years there has been a steep rise in incidents related to frauds through online investment applications, WhatsApp and Telegram group links, among others. Many people have lost their money by investing in such fake online schemes. Fraudsters are luring people on the promise of providing them high returns within a short period by investing their money in stock market, shares, mutual funds and IPOs, read the Crime Branchs advisory. The Crime Branch has advised citizens to use only genuine and authorised applications/websites to invest in IPOs, stocks, mutual funds and others. People must remain careful on unrealistic promises being made to them like providing high returns. They should scrutinise the investment opportunities thoroughly before taking any step, said the agency. Another cause of concern is the low recovery rate and most of the scamsters managing to remain away from police radar. The fraudsters are operating from various parts of the country and immediately utilise the money gained through illegal means. In some cases, they also transfer the swindled money outside the country which makes it tough for the agency to recover the amount, said Crime Branch sources. Be aware CB has asked people to be careful while investing through online investment apps, WhatsApp and Telegram group links Fraudsters are promising high returns through investment in stock market, mutual funds and IPO Citizens are advised to use genuine and authorised apps/websites to invest in different schemes

IIT Bhubaneswar to set up centre for coastal erosion

BHUBANESWAR: IIT Bhubaneswar will establish a centre for coastal and river bank erosion, primarily focusing on research related to the morphological aspects of coastal landforms, river bank stability, and scour and deposition issues related to various offshore structures. The centre will be set up by the School of Infrastructure under the Fund for Improvement of S&T Infrastructure (FIST) scheme of the Ministry of Science and Technology. The institute has signed an MoU with Chennai-based NeXHS Renewables Private Limited as per which the latter will provide partial funds for procuring necessary equipment for the proposed centre. By combining academic expertise with industry insights, the partnership aims to accelerate the development and deployment of scalable renewable energy solutions that address the evolving needs of society and contribute to a sustainable future, IIT Bhubaneswar officials said. IIT Bhubaneswar director Prof Shreepad Karmalkar said the collaboration represents a significant step towards the institutes efforts to harness the power of renewable energy technologies for a greener and more sustainable future.

BJD-BJP trying to hoodwink people, says Sachin Pilot

BHUBANESWAR: Senior Congress leader Sachin Pilot on Saturday said BJD and BJP have a covert understanding and are fighting elections in the state only to hoodwink people. They (BJD and BJP) are running a double-engine government to exploit the resources of the state and its people, Pilot told mediapersons during his visit to the state to campaign for his partys candidates in Balasore Lok Sabha constituency. Coming down on the BJD government in the state, Pilot said it has failed on all fronts during the last 24 years of its rule. No steps were taken for development of the state during the period, he added. Corruption, unemployment and price rise have increased during the BJD governments tenure and the Congress has emerged as the only alternative for people, Pilot said. The Congress leader said INDIA bloc has forged ahead in the four phases of elections completed so far. On the other hand, BJP has gone on back foot in several states in north India including Rajasthan where it is in power. Addressing an election rally in Balasore Lok Sabha constituency in support of party candidate and former Union minister Srikant Jena, Pilot lashed out at the Centre for trying to demolish democratic structures in the country. He accused the Narendra Modi government of making India Opposition-free. They have frozen the bank accounts of the Congress and sent two chief ministers to jail, he added.

Hi-tech tower to study carbon sequestration in Similipal

BHUBANESWAR: An Eddy covariance flux tower has been installed in the core area of Similipal Biosphere Reserve to study forest carbon sequestration which would help understand the impact of climate change on forest carbon dynamics. The tower has been installed at Pithabata south range by CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI), Lucknow. It will measure exchange of CO2, H2O and energy between the vegetation surface and the atmosphere, allowing researchers to generate scientific understanding on forest carbon dynamics and net ecosystem exchange (NEE). A first-of-its-kind study in Similipal Biosphere Reserve to measure forest carbon sequestration and predict climate change impact on forest carbon dynamics, it is also the first initiative by CSIR to measure forest carbon flux in any semi-evergreen forest of India. It will lead to developing a model for predicting impact of climate change on Indian forest carbon dynamics. The long-term data generated from this study will help formulate effective strategies for futuristic forest management, CSIR-NBRI officials said. Forest carbon sequestration is a process of increasing carbon content of forest through processes that remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Forest carbon is stored within the forest ecosystem in five pools such as above-ground biomass, below-ground biomass, deadwood, litter and soil organic matter. As per the India State of Forest (ISF) report 2019, Odisha has around 6 per cent of Indias total forest carbon stock. This Eddy Covariance flux tower was jointly inaugurated by CSIR-NBRI director Ajit Kumar Shasany and Similipal field director Prakash Chand Gogineni. The installation was led by Soumit Kumar Behera, senior principal scientist and one of the principal investigators of the project entitled Biotechnological Interventions for Management of Protected Areas along with a team of scientists from CSIR-NBRI, Lucknow, CSIR-IMMT, Bhubaneswar and IIT Kharagpur along with officials of Similipal tiger reserve. The project has been established under sponsorship of Council of Scientific and Industrial Research and department of Biotechnology. Whats in it The system will continuously measure exchange of CO2, H2O and energy between the vegetation surface and the atmosphere It will empower researchers to advance scientific understanding on forest carbon dynamics and net ecosystem exchange

PM Modi To Arrive In Bhubaneswar Today, Road Show In Puri On Monday

Bhubaneswar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to arrive in Odisha on a two-day visit on Sunday evening. Upon his arrival on Sunday evening, PM Modi will convene a meeting with state BJP leaders in Bhubaneswar and spend the night at the Raj Bhawan. On Monday, he is slated to visit Puri Jagannath Temple [] The post PM Modi To Arrive In Bhubaneswar Today, Road Show In Puri On Monday appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

Samir Dash Quits BJD Over Ticket Denial

Bhubaneswar: Former Minister and Nimapara MLA Samir Ranjan Dash on Sunday resigned from the primary membership of BJD after being denied a ticket to fight assembly elections. He sent his resignation letter to party president Naveen Patnaik. The leader of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has lost confidence on me and the party organisations [] The post Samir Dash Quits BJD Over Ticket Denial appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

OCPL coal mine holds occupational health and safety awareness programme

BHUBANESWAR: An occupational health and safety awareness programme focusing on pneumoconiosis was organised at Odisha Coal and Power Ltd Manoharpur coal mine project recently. The programme organised under the aegis of the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) Bhubaneswar Region-II saw participation of around 200 workers. While a health check-up of the workers was conducted, they were also sensitised on the occupational hazards. A detailed and informative presentation on Pneumoconiosis - a dust related lung disease was given by the medical team on this occasion. It covered essential aspects such as the causes, symptoms, various stages, treatment and preventive measures of pneumoconiosis, aiming to educate and raise awareness among the workers. Director of mines safety (mining) Prafulla Ranjan Thakur emphasised the importance of adhering to statutory requirements to prevent occupational health problems. He highlighted the critical need for effective dust control measures at workplaces, regular airborne dust surveys in mines and the consistent use of dust masks by all workers and supervisors. Deputy director of mines safety (mining) Ulimella Shrivashankar, head of mines LRC Reddy, mine agent Praveen Ranjan, mine manager Sudhansu Sinha and other senior officials attended the programme.

73-year-old tries his luck again from high-profile seat

Pandian: Oppn misleading people with lies

Sundargarh villagers warn of poll boycott over paved road

Migrants from 4 dists head back after casting votes

BJD & BJP are two sides of the same coin: Pilot

Home voting in Sambalpur dist ends, 593 votes collected

SIT starts probing poll violence

Union minister Vaishnaw adresses 2 rallies in Sgarh

Puri hoteliers offer 20% food discount on polling day to encourage voting

Vedanta holds week-long health campaign

Naveen is operating a proxy govt: Dharmendra

Security tightened in Ganjam & Kandhamal ahead of elections

BJD, BJP Submit Memos to Odisha CEO, Complain Against Each Other

Bhubaneswar: Continuing their spree of allegations, the leaders of the ruling BJD and the opposition BJP again knocked on the doors of the Chief Electoral Officer of Odisha (CEO) seeking actions against each other. While the ruling party alleged model code of conduct violation by Puri BJP MP candidate Sambit Patra, the saffron party urged [] The post BJD, BJP Submit Memos to Odisha CEO, Complain Against Each Other appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

Odisha DGP Emphasizes Zero-Tolerance Policy Towards Violence

Bhubaneswar: Odisha DGP Arun Kumar Sarangi today took stock of the law & order situation across the state and emphasized a zero-tolerance policy for violence. He discussed with the SPs of all districts through video conference and reviewed measures to be taken to ensure the remaining three phases of elections in Odisha remain peaceful. Violence [] The post Odisha DGP Emphasizes Zero-Tolerance Policy Towards Violence appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

Those promising to make Odisha number-1 should first concentrate on their own states: Naveen

Bhubaneswar: Lashing out at visiting Union ministers and chief ministers of BJP-ruled states, BJD chief Naveen Patnaik Saturday said that political tourists promising to make Odisha number one in the country should first concentrate on their own states. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and chief ministers of BJP-ruled Assam, Chhattisgarh and []

86 MLA candidates in Odisha in third phase involved in serious crimes, says ADR report

Bhubaneswar: Eighty-six candidates in the fray for the third phase of the assembly elections in Odisha have serious crime cases pending against them. Of them, four face murder charges. This was revealed by a report jointly prepared by Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and Odisha Election Watch based on the affidavits filed by the contestants. The report which was presented on Saturday pointed out that there are 383 candidates of various political parties who are in the fray in 42 Assembly seats. The report was prepared based on the analysis of the affidavits of 381 candidates. Addressing a press conference here on Saturday, Ranjan Mohanty, a member of the Odisha Election Watch said, Of these candidates, various criminal cases are pending against 100 while 26 candidates have confessed to have attempt-to-murder cases against them and 28 of them are involved in crimes against women. Even one of the candidates is accused in a rape case. Moreover, the report stated that 126 MLA aspirants in the fray are crorepatis. The report added that the BJD MLA candidate for Champua, Sanatan Mahakud topped the list of crorepatis with declared assets of Rs 227. 67 crore followed by Independent candidate Soumya Ranjan Patnaik at Rs 122.86 crore. Patnaik is fighting the election from the Ghasipura Assembly seat. The third crorepati candidate is BJPs Pratyusha Rajeswari Singh, who is in the fray from the Nayagarh Assembly seat with declared assets of Rs 120. 56 core. The poorest among the candidates is Samrudha Odishas nominee Kailash Chandra Nayak who is contesting from the Baramba Assembly seat. In his affidavit, he has declared assets of Rs 1000 only. That apart, two of the candidates have not passed the matriculation examination while the educational qualifications of two others are below class 5.

BJP get exposed for telling lies on Shree Mandira: BJD

Modi, Shah, and Rajnath Singh to campaign in Odisha from Sunday

Bhubaneswar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh are scheduled to address election meetings in Odisha in the next three days, a senior BJP leader said on Saturday. The defence minister will address three meetings on Sunday at Rairakhol, Patna and Khurda, Odisha BJP vice-president Golak Mohapatra said. Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

LOPAR likely to concentrate into Depression over BoB May 24: IMD

Bhubaneswar: A low-pressure area is likely to form over the southwest Bay of Bengal around May 22 which will move initially northeastwards and concentrate into a depression over central parts of the Bay of Bengal, May 24, IMD said. It said Fridays trough runs from south Chhattisgarh to the Comorin area and now runs from []

Odisha CID-CB issues advisory on online investment fraud

Bhubaneswar: The CID- CB of Odisha Police has issued an important advisory to protect citizens from falling prey to the rampant rise in online investment fraud cases in the state. In a release issued here Saturday, the CID-CB said there has been a steep and concerning rise in cases of fraud through online investment apps, []

High pitched electioneering for Phase-V Lok Sabha poll ends

Odisha 3rd Phase Elections: Sanatan Mahakud, Soumya Patnaik Richest Among 126 Crorepati MLA Candidates

86candidates haveserious criminal cases against them. 2 candidates have never been to school, 2 under class-V. Bhubaneswar: Odisha is going tohold its third phase of elections in the state on the 25th. There are 383 MLA candidates for 42 assembly constituencies. Among them, 381 MLA candidates havebeen analysedby the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and [] The post Odisha 3rd Phase Elections: Sanatan Mahakud, Soumya Patnaik Richest Among 126 Crorepati MLA Candidates appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

BJP Will Form Govt In Odisha This Time: Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai

Bhubaneswar: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai today said, This time the government is changing in Odisha and the BJP will form the new government after the elections. Sai has been continuously campaigning for BJP candidates in Odisha and said that he has covered six parliamentary constituencies and 13 assembly segments in 5 days. The [] The post BJP Will Form Govt In Odisha This Time: Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

5 railway stations in Odisha's Sundargarh LS seat to be made world class: Vaishnaw

5 railway stations in Odisha's Sundargarh LS seat to be made world class: Vaishnaw Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Saturday said five stations falling under the Sundargarh Lok Sabha constituency in Odisha will be redeveloped as world-class ones. Bimlagarh, Rajgangpur, Panposh, Rourkela and Hemgir are going to become world-class railway stations, he said while speaking to media persons during campaigning for BJP candidate in the Bonai assembly segment. Asked about the status of the Talcher-Bimlagarh railway link, he said, It will be completed soon. This year, Rs 550 crore has been provided in the budget for the new railway line. The state government is not providing the required land for this important link. But we are working on it. Over 28 km of the new railway line on the Talcher-Bimlagarh route has been completed. ''The railway tracks have come up to Samal from Talcher and this year the link up to Khamar will be completed. From the Bimlagarh side, the work needs to be expedited but it depends on the availability of land,'' the railway minister said. Around 100 4G mobile towers have been set up in the Bonai area, he added. Odisha has got a special place in the PMs heart. Modi ji is always serious about Odishas development and how the dreams of the Odias are fulfilled, Vaishnaw said. He exuded confidence that the BJP will form the government in Odisha in this election. The second round of the simultaneous elections to five Lok Sabha seats and 35 assembly seats in Odisha will be held on May 20. BJP leader and veteran Bollywood actress Hema Malini on Saturday campaigned for Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and local MLA candidate Subash Panigrahi in Deogarh district. She also joined the campaigning trail in the Pallahara assembly segment in the Dhenkanal district. Malini said the people of Odisha have made their mindset to elect Pradhan in Deogarh, and the BJP to form double-engine governments in the state and at the Centre. The term ''double engine'' is used by BJP leaders to refer to the party being in power at the Centre as well as in a state. Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma sought votes for the BJP nominees in Bhubaneswar and Puri. Odisha has 21 Lok Sabha seats and 147 assembly constituencies.

Campaigning ends for five LS seats, 35 Assembly segments in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: The high-decibel campaigning ended Saturday for five Lok Sabha seats and 35 Assembly constituencies in Odisha, which will go to polls May 20. Among the prominent candidates in the second round of simultaneous elections in the state are BJD president and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and his colleagues in the state government Bikram Keshari []

Odisha Crime Branch Issues Advisory As Online Investment Fraud Becomes Rampant

Bhubaneswar: The Criminal Investiagtion Department (CID) of Odisha Crime Branch has issued an important advisory to protect citizens from falling prey to the rampant rise in online investment fraud cases. In recent times, there has been a steep and concerning rise in cases of fraud through online investment apps. WhatsApp group link, telegram group line [] The post Odisha Crime Branch Issues Advisory As Online Investment Fraud Becomes Rampant appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

Odisha Assembly elections: 126 crorepati candidates in third phase polls

Bhubaneswar: One hundred and twenty-six candidates in fray for the third phase of Assembly elections in Odisha are crorepati, with BJD candidate from Champua segment Sanatan Mahakud the richest with Rs 227.67 crore assets. Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Dhenkanal, Keonjhar, Puri and Sambalpur Lok Sabha constituencies along with 42 Assembly seats under these Lok Sabha segments will []

EC to deploy 102 companies of central forces for second phase of polls in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: The Election Commission of India (ECI) will deploy 102 companies of central armed police forces (CAPFs) for the second phase of simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly polls in Odisha May 20, an official said Saturday. Incidents of violence have been reported from Ganjam and Bolangir districts ahead of voting. Voting will be held in []

Low pressure likely over BoB around May 22, depression by May 24: IMD

Bhubaneswar: India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday informed that a low pressure area is likely to form over southwest Bay of Bengal (BoB) around May 22, 2024. As per the latest IMD forecast, the low pressure area is likely to move initially north-east wards and subsequently concentrate into a depression over central parts of [] The post Low pressure likely over BoB around May 22, depression by May 24: IMD appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

Kartik Pandian Targets Center On Development Issues in Krushnaprasad

Bhubaneswar: Senior Biju Janata Dal leader Kartik Pandian today campaigned for the party candidates in Krushnaprasad. During his campaign meetings, he targeted the Bharatiya Janata Party led Central Government on various developmental issues. Speaking at the public meeting organized at the Melana Padia, Pandian mocked the opposition on many developmental issues. He said, Union Minister [] The post Kartik Pandian Targets Center On Development Issues in Krushnaprasad appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

Odisha Elections 2024: Phase 2 Polling On May 20 For Five Lok Sabha, 35 Assembly Seats

Bhubaneswar: After the conclusion of the first four phases of Lok Sabha polls, the country is now gearing up for the fifth phase to be held on May 20. In this phase, polling will take place on 49 seats across six states and two union territories. Apart from the 5 Lok Sabha seats for which [] The post Odisha Elections 2024: Phase 2 Polling On May 20 For Five Lok Sabha, 35 Assembly Seats appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

'Dream Girl' seeks double-engine government in Odisha

BHUBANESWAR/CUTTACK: A double-engine government by BJP is crucial for acceleration of development in Odisha, said Bollywood's dream girl and BJP leader Hema Malini on Friday. The star campaigner of BJP in her first election campaign in the state targeted the BJD government accusing it of failing to secure Odisha's progress on many fronts. Hema, who attended BJP's Ashirvad Samabesh at Salia Sahi, the state capital's biggest slum, to canvass for party's Bhubaneswar Lok Sabha candidate Aparajita Sarangi and Bhubaneswar-North Assembly candidate Priyadarshi Mishra said Congress ruled Odisha for 50 years and BJD for another 25 years. However, corruption and unemployment increased in the state during the period and people have become helpless, she said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has come up with a number of schemes for women, dalits, adivasis, poor as well as those belonging to backward sections. Unfortunately, people of Odisha have been deprived of all the schemes and programmes, said Hema. She said the prime minister has given Rs 18 lakh crore for development of the state. However, nothing much has been done by the BJD government. Development can only be secured if BJP forms its government in Odisha, she said. Hema also spoke on the Subhadra scheme as per which BJP has promised Rs 50,000 cash voucher to women and urged everyone to vote for the saffron party candidates to accelerate Odisha's growth and development under prime minister's New India vision. While residents of Salia Sahi saw and listened to the dream girl, the latter's much-hyped election meeting in Cuttack Sadar Assembly constituency turned to be a damp squib, as she failed to reach the venue leaving the crowd disappointed. The saffron party had organised an election meeting at Kishan Nagar High School play ground. As announced earlier, Hema along with Rajasthan government's cabinet minister Avinash Gehlot and party candidate for Cuttack Sadar Assembly constituency Prakash Chandra Sethi were scheduled to hold a roadshow and reach the meeting venue at 1.15 pm. The promise of dream girl at the venue saw around 5,000 people from different gram panchayats gathered at the venue notwithstanding the scorching heat. But the excitement turned into disappointment as while Sethi reached the venue with Gehlot at 2.45 pm and announced that the actress-turned-politician returned midway due to ill-health. Hema Malini suddenly fell ill due to which she returned midway, said Gehlot. However, it had little effect as people left the venue in hordes. I had come to the meeting and waited for around four hours to see and hear Bollywood's dream girl Hema Malini. When I learnt she was not coming, I left the meeting spot and returned home, said a disgruntled Subas Mahali of Sudukhanda. After campaigning in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, the veteran Bollywood actor held a roadshow in Pipili to canvass for the party candidates. BJP Puri Lok Sabha candidate Sambit Patra and Pipili assembly candidate Ashrit Pattanayak accompanied her in the roadshow.

Political tourists of BJP resorting to derogatory, abusive language: Naveen Patnaik

BHUBANESWAR: As campaign has reached a peak ahead of the second phase elections in Odisha on May 20, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Friday came down heavily on the Union ministers, CMs from other states and others leaders for resorting to what he termed derogatory and abusive language in their campaign meetings and rallies. With the Opposition, particularly the BJP pressing all its might in the state to win the polls by bringing in top ministers, its CMs and top leaders, the chief minister said they were political tourists and their visits would not have any impact on the people of Odisha. Some chief ministers and Union ministers come as political tourists only at the time of elections and then they disappear. Their speeches have no effect on the people of Odisha, Naveen told the media. It is most unfortunate that many of them use derogatory and abusive language. I never believe in doing that and the people here in our state dont appreciate such language, he added. The BJP has launched a campaign blitzkrieg by top leadership of the party who are holding roadshows, addressing public meeting and rallies in constituencies where elections are scheduled to be held in the second phase on May 20. The saffron party campaign has made Odia Asmita or Odia pride its main poll plank, targeting Tamil Nadu-born bureaucrat-turned-politician and Naveens close aide VK Pandian for his hold over the regional party and the BJD government. The party has also vociferously raised questions on Naveens health condition and alleged that he has been held captive. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has already campaigned for party candidates twice in May after visiting the state twice earlier in March. The prime minister conducted a roadshow at Bhubaneswar on May 10 and is scheduled hold another one at Puri on Monday. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP national president JP Nadda, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai, Rajasthan CM Bhajan Lal Sharma have been frequenting the state and covered almost all the constituencies that are going to polls in phases. On Friday, apart from the chief ministers and Shah, Union minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and his cabinet colleague Bhupender Yadav, and BJP MP Hema Malini held meetings at different places of the state.

Odisha: No place for violence in democracy, says Nikunja Bihari Dhal

BHUBANESWAR: A day after ordering deployment of 20 companies of CAPF in Ganjam in view of pre-poll violence in Khallikote, chief electoral officer (CEO) Nikunja Bihari Dhal on Friday held talks with political parties seeking their cooperation in ensuring peaceful voting in the next three phases of elections. During the meeting, attended by leaders of major political parties, the CEO reiterated there is no place for violence in democracy and no law and order situation will be tolerated during the elections. He appealed political parties to be part of a free, fair, impartial and peaceful election process. The CEO also expressed his satisfaction over 75.68 per cent polling in the first phase elections to four Lok Sabha and 28 Assembly segments in the state and urged all stakeholders to work in the direction of ensuring maximum voter turnout in the next three phases of elections in the state. He asked political parties to nominate women agents for all-women or Sakhi booths during elections. Dhal also urged political parties and their candidates to ensure proper compliance to the model code of conduct issued for the polls.

Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies in Odisha to offer NEFT, RTGS services soon

BHUBANESWAR: Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACS) will soon offer core banking facilities like real-time gross settlement (RTGS), national electronic fund transfer (NEFT) and micro ATM provisions. Computerisation of more than 95 per cent of the 2,710 PACS in 30 districts of the state has been completed and data migrated to common banking software (CBS). The NEFT/RTGS service will enable inter-bank electronic fund transfer services for PACS. The PACS in the state are a part of around 65,000 functional primary agricultural cooperative societies across the country that will be integrated online by the end of August this year to diversify their businesses and undertake multiple services. Godowns set up in PACS will provide modernised tools for farmers. Sources said, the integration of the wings and roots of the PACS is in testing phase and is scheduled to be over by May 31. Of the 2,622 PACS that have been computerised, 110 have been successfully synced online and the remaining will be synced after the completion of the integration process. The registrar of Cooperative Societies has sought immediate linking of day-end processes of PACS with their respective central cooperative banks. As the accounts of farmers are in books of PACS, banks have to put in place a system where such accounts can be migrated to the core banking system. General manager of Odisha State Cooperative Bank (OSCB) Prabodh Kumar Mishra said all the computerised PACS have been linked to their respective district cooperative banks core banking system and exchanging data in real-time. One-time tool usage has been permitted for a period of 10 days from May 15 to 25 for specific operational needs to ensure that the linking of day end processes of PACS is completed before the deadline. Computerisation of the remaining PACS will be completed and banking facilities like NEFT/RTGS made available soon, he said.

Two more equal seats have a striking common ground in Odisha

A distance of 335 km between two places can change many things. Two different geographies could mean different lives, livelihood, dialects, climate, cultural practices, food and a lot more. But, between Hinjili and Kantabanji, there are dissimilarities and equally, a common ground. Hinjili, for all the attention it garnered over the last two decades and a half, is like a reluctant celebrity. A quaint little semi-urban place, it has grown over the years into a municipal area with modern amenities. But life moves at its own pace and no one seems to be in a hurry. The cacophony of the modern day poll campaign is absent too, so muted is the election buzz in the Assembly constituency that has elected Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik five times since 2000. It has never been loud in Hinjili, says Dibya Ranjan Sahu, a banker who has lived there all his life. Sahu believes Naveens quiet dignity captures Hinjilis spirit. His constituency and constituents have reciprocated that sentiment. As you head into Sheragada block, driving past the sun-dried farm fields on the serpentine road, shepherds in the far horizon catch your eye. Vegetable farms and poultry rearing units do appear but they are few and far between. At Brahmanchhai gram panchayat, a small, dilapidated shop greets you right at the entry to the village. Shop-owner Krushna Pradhan is 70 and an affable man. Of his two sons, the younger one lives here and drives an auto-rickshaw for a living. The elder one works in Surat. Brahmanchhai has about 1,000 families. Many households have a member or two who have migrated to Surat, Bengaluru and Mumbai in search of work and livelihood. Twenty-nine-year-old Bauri Mallick belongs to one such family. He works in Bengaluru where he makes a decent Rs 25,000 as a loader. There is no shortage of work there. I came home for Dandakaali Jatra but stayed back for the elections. During these times, the employer offers higher wages to retain us, he says. Krushna is happy with the BJD government schemes, allowances and has no qualms about family members migrating outside the state for work. Our children will go where they find good opportunities. What matters to me is Naveen Babu is a good man, he says. Bauri likes it in Bengaluru though. He can bargain up to Rs 30,000 from his employer when demand for work is higher. Someswar Sahu studies MBA and works part-time. He was born in Hinjili around the time Naveen first came to contest from the Assembly seat and has since grown up with the tales of the BJD supremo. He adores the chief minister but wants better prospects in commensurate with his qualifications and generational aspirations. Only Bhubaneswar has grown and bears potential while the rest of Odisha does not. That must change, he says pointing at the global IT and consulting firms which have set up shop in the state capital. Over 330 km away, Banmali Palace is a plush hotel property on the edge of Kantabanji town of Balangir district. Over the last couple of years, it has acquired some reputation for playing host to destination weddings and attracts affluent families from across western Odisha. It represents Kantabanjis paradox. A 20-minute drive from the hotel takes you to Karuanmunda, a small village in Turekela block. Once there, knock on any door and you find a son, husband or brother away in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh or Telangana, working to provide for his family. Four months back, Tapan Chhura and his wife Tura left three of their teenage children back in the village and headed to Tirupati. Their eldest son, Khira (16) and youngest daughter Ria, all of six, have accompanied them to the brick kiln. Tapan wants to come back for the elections but cannot get away from his employer. Seven of us are in Tirupati. Could you help take us back home for the elections? he called over the phone one morning a few days back. He seems desperate but its unlikely he can come home to exercise his franchise. Thousands like him - some records put the total migrant's figure at 2.5 lakh in the western region - may not get to take part in the biggest democratic festival of the world this time. For all their geo-sociological dissimilarities, both Hinjili and Kantabanji are bound by the migration problem. In some parts of Ganjam, it might have been aspirational in nature but across the arid western belt, it is distress migration. Now these two Assembly constituencies have one more thing to share - Naveen Patnaik. After the BJD boss chose Kantabanji to be his second Assembly seat, his decision triggered a wave of speculations, political and otherwise. Opposition parties like BJP and Congress, have been using migration as a political weapon against Naveen and the BJD, and the CMs Kantabanji decision came at an opportune time. For voters like Tapan Chhura, Naveen brings some hope of deliverance from the vicious cycle of distress migration. Elderly villagers in Karuanmunda expect change to happen under Naveens watch. However, opponents want answers. Santosh Singh Saluja, who as Congress MLA has represented Kantabanji four times since 1995, says the BJD must explain what it has done for the region. Kantabanji has one of the highest BPL rates while the Turekela block embodies distress migration. Look at the irrigation coverage. The BJD is answerable for this regions prolonged impoverishment, he says before heading out for campaigning under the blistering sun. Kantabanji has long been a Congress bastion. Of the last 10 Assembly polls, it has gone to the grand old party six times, including the 2019 election which Saluja had won by just 128 votes, beating BJPs Laxman Bag. Bag, who has risen from a very modest background, appears confident about crossing the bridge this time. For him, the prime issue of unemployment and livelihood resonates with the voters of Kantabanji. There are no industries in this region, educated and skilled youth are forced to migrate. In absence of irrigation, farmers head out in search of livelihood in other states, he says. In a region which enjoys BJPs sway, Bag remains optimistic. However, Naveens entry might upset the whole electoral balance. In fact, the BJD decision to field him from Kantabanji is seen as a strategy to leverage the BJD supremos popularity in western Odisha. The Assembly constituency is almost the mid-point from Kalahandi, Nuapada, Balangir and Bargarh. If he can do an encore of Bijepur in 2019, the BJD would stand to gain from a stronghold of both BJP and Congress. Karuanmundas Tapan Chhura would be happy to know if it turns out to be much more than an electoral strategy. Siba Mohanty Resident Editor, Odisha sibamohanty@newindianexpress.com

Man held for burglary

Bhubaneswar: The Commissionerate Police Friday arrested a 24-year-old man on charges of burglary under Nandankanan police limits here May 3. The accused Saman Sabar alias Suman, who hails from Keonjhar, was residing in VSS Nagar area here, ACP (Zone VI) Ramesh Chandra Bishoi said. Bishoi said Suman burgled cash and other valuables from the house []

Telangana Deputy CM and Congress leader Bhatti Vikramarka campaigns in Odisha

Mr. Bhatti also attended several poll-related programmes in Rayagada and Bhubaneswar.

As CM eyes 6th successive win, oppn hopes to turn the tables

Jumbo fear looms large in 20 Rayagada villages

In Titlagarh, voters seek efforts to beat the heat

CPET to be held from July 3 to 14

Cong plaint against Arkesh over fake letter

4 killed, 6 hurt as car rams into divider

BJP expels ex-MLA, 2 other members for anti-party work

Research centre for coastal & riverbank erosion at IITBBS

I-T Dept Grills Late BJD Leader Naba Das Son Bishal

Bhubaneswar: The Income Tax department on Friday raided the Jharsuguda business office of the late health minister Naba Das and reportedly questioned his son Bishal Das. As per reports, the IT officials questioned Bishal for 4 hours in a hotel in Jharsuguda. But, neither the I-T department nor Naba Das family disclosed any information about [] The post I-T Dept Grills Late BJD Leader Naba Das Son Bishal appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

Khallikote Murder Case: SIT Begins Probe But Family Demands CBI Investigation

Bhubaneswar: Odishas Ganjam district, which has become the hub of pre-poll violence, the Khallikote murder case amid the elections has made the political atmosphere warmer. As 48 hours have passed, neither the police could apprehend the main accused in the murder of the BJP worker, nor did the bereaved family get justice. Although an SIT [] The post Khallikote Murder Case: SIT Begins Probe But Family Demands CBI Investigation appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

Hot & Humid Weather In Odisha For Next 2 Days; Heatwave Alert On May 20, 21

Bhubaneswar: Odisha is experiencing mixed weather conditions as coastal areas are reeling under hot and humid weather conditions while interior areas are witnessing thundershowers. In the last 24 hours, the state recorded heavy rainfall while the maximum day temperature was recorded at 40.1 degrees C in Chandabali on Friday. For the next two days, hot [] The post Hot & Humid Weather In Odisha For Next 2 Days; Heatwave Alert On May 20, 21 appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

PM Modi to arrive in Odisha Sunday on two-day visit: Manmohan Samal

Bhubaneswar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a two-day visit to Odisha from May 19, state BJP chief Manmohan Samal said Friday. Upon his arrival Sunday evening, PM Modi will convene a meeting with state BJP leaders in Bhubaneswar and spend the night in the city, Samal added. The following day, he []

Bhatti, Ponguleti Campaign for Congress in Other States

Hyderabad: Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka has been campaigning in Odisha for the past three days in support of Congress candidates, while revenue minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy canvassed in Maharashtra on Friday in support of the Congress-led four-party Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) candidates. Bhatti left for Delhi on Tuesday. He accompanied AICC leader Rahul Gandhi to Odisha on Wednesday and took part in the campaign at the Bolangir constituency. He returned to Delhi along with Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday. On Thursday, Bhatti toured Bhubaneswar and held election strategy meetings with Odisha PCC leaders and social media warriors. On Friday, he visited the Phulbani Lok Sabha constituency along with AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge, and Odisha PCC chief Sarat Pattanayak and participated in a public meeting. Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy visited Maharashtra on Friday and campaigned in Dharavi, Sion Koliwada, and Bandra in Mumbai. Addressing the election meetings, Srinivas Reddy cautioned voters that if the BJP is voted to power for the third term, there will be a threat to the Constitution written by Dr BR Ambedkar and reservations being extended to SCs, STs and OBCs. Srinivas Reddy alleged that the BJP is planning to amend the Constitution and abolish reservations and that's why it is seeking 400-plus Lok Sabha seats this time with an intention to amend the Constitution with the help of a two-thirds majority in Parliament. He said the BJP came to power in Maharashtra through the back-door method by toppling the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance government and urged the people of Maharashtra to teach a fitting lesson to the BJP in the Lok Sabha polls.

Assam CM Himant Biswa Sarma give BJD govt to find Lord Jagannaths Ratna Bhandar keys by June 10

Bhubaneswar: Assam chief minister and BJPs star campaigner Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday tore apart the ruling BJD over the missing of Ratna Bhandar keys of Puri Srimandir while addressing a public gathering at Kabisuryanagar in Ganjam district on Friday. Biswa Sarma gave an ultimatum to Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaiks close aide VK Pandian to find the missing keys of Ratna Bhandar by June 10. He also said that if the BJD government fails to find the missing key, BJP will find the key after the party forms government in Odisha on June 10. I feel sad because the keys of Ratna Bhandar of Jagannath temple have gone missing and the Naveen Patnaik government is clueless about it. Even the judicial inquiry report in this regard has not been made public. If Lord Jagannaths key is missing in Odisha, it means people of the State have lost everything on their home soil, said Biswa Sarma. I want to ask Pandian, where has he kept the keys? You have time till June 10. BJP will form government in Odisha on June 10. Find the keys till that date or else BJP will find the keys at any cost. It is our promise. Pandian knows where the key is placed. However, he is not revealing the truth. I ask Pandian not to play with the emotions of Odia people. If you dont find the keys by June 10, you have to spend the rest of your life with the curse of Lord Jagannath, he alleged. Biswa Sarma assured about the opening of all the four dwaras (doors) of Puri Srimandir if the BJP is voted to power. Devotees across the globe face a lot of difficulties while having darshan of Lord Jagannath at Puri Srimandir due to the opening of only one dwara. We assure you that all the gates of Srimandir will be opened to facilitate smooth darshan of the devotees if BJP is voted to power, said Biswa Sarma. He also reiterated that the BJP government will provide Rs 3,100 to farmers per quintal paddy. Farmers, women, elderly persons and youths are getting many facilities in BJP ruled states across the country. We assure you to provide Rs 3,100 per quintal paddy instead of Rs 2,100 with Pandians katni-Chhatni. Our farmers will be greatly benefitted by it. Everything has its expiry date and BJDs expiry date has come, said Biswa Sarma. Centre gives rice to the people of Odisha. However, Pandian only gives empty packets. If PM Modi is providing rice, the state government should have provided dal or at least salt with it. But they are giving only empty packets in the name of Naveen Patnaik government. I have read from newspapers that those empty packets have been made in Tamil Nadu. We will not provide empty packets to our mothers. BJP will provide Rs 50,000 under Subhadra Yojana to every mother in the State, he added.

BJP Crossed 270 Seats Mark in First Four Phases of Elections, Claims Shah

Bhubaneswar: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday claimed that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had already crossed the 270 Lok Sabha seats mark in the first four phases of elections. Elections for 380 Lok Sabha seats have already been held in the first four phases. In Bengal, elections for 18 seats have been completed. Today, I can confidently tell you that out of 380, PM Modi has achieved an absolute majority by already winning 270 seats. The fight ahead is to cross 400 and we are confident to achieve the target, Shah said while addressing a poll rally in Odishas Rourkela. Earlier, the Opposition had accused the BJP of going silent on the Ab ki bar, 400 paar claim after the first and second phases of elections. The Prime Minister, in an interview, had earlier said that the NDA crossing 400 is now a reality. Similarly, in an interview with a daily, Shah said that the NDA will certainly cross 400 seats and that there are no ifs and buts. In its pursuit of 400 Lok Sabha seats, the BJP had earmarked 160 seats which it had lost in 2019 with a small margin. Setting aside this focus on seats at least a year and a half before the elections, the BJP had aimed to win at least 50 per cent of the 160 seats. Shah said the country had achieved many milestones in different sectors under PM Modis visionary leadership. He also claimed that under PM Narendra Modis rule, Naxal activities in different states, including Odisha, were brought under control, and development activities in backward districts had gathered pace.

Health campaign in Odishas tribal dominated Lanjigarh bolsters community health

Bhubaneswar: Vedanta Limited, Lanjigarh, Indias premier producer of smelter grade alumina, conducted a week-long, comprehensive multi-specialty health camp and a blood donation drive in Odishas tribal dominated Kalahandi district. The event, which prioritised accessible healthcare services through multiple health camps and awareness drives in more than several remote villages, witnessed huge participation from the communities. The campaign culminated with a major multi-specialty health camp and blood donation drive at Vedanta Hospital, with an active participation of more than 350 community members. Attendees had the opportunity to receive free health check-ups and one-to-one consultation with specialists in general medicine, paediatrics, gynaecology, ophthalmology, and dentistry providing preventive screenings and curative guidance. Moreover, the blood donation drive garnered tremendous support to alleviate the critical shortage of transfusable blood in the region by collecting 32 units, which will safeguard the lives of many individuals in need. Speaking on the overwhelming response to the health campaign, Pranab Kumar Bhattacharyya, CEO Alumina Business, Vedanta Ltd, said, Ensuring access to quality healthcare is not just a privilege but a fundamental right. At Vedanta Aluminium, we prioritize healthcare as a cornerstone of our social impact efforts. Whether it's through our Mobile Health Units delivering doorstep services or organizing large-scale health camps like this one, we're dedicated to extending quality healthcare to remote communities across the nation. We firmly believe that by improving health outcomes, we can ignite a ripple effect of enhanced community well-being.

Amusement park near Bhubaneswar to open for visitors May 24

Bhubaneshwar: Wonderla Holidays, Indias largest amusement park chain, Friday announced the launch of its newest park at Kumbharbasta, near Bhubaneswar. With an investment of approximately Rs 190 crore, the 50 acre amusement park will present over 21 dry & wet rides, ranging from high-speed coasters to family-friendly attractions, to the visitors. We are thrilled to []

'Political tourists' to have no impact on Odisha people: Patnaik on visit of BJP CMs, ministers

BHUBANESWAR: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Friday denounced the campaign speeches by his counterparts from other states and union ministers terming them as derogatory and abusive, and claimed that those political tourists have no impact on people of his state. In the last few days, a number of BJP CMs and union ministers campaigned in the state, and altogether 14 rallies were addressed by them on Friday at various places across the state. Some chief ministers and union ministers come as political tourists only at the time of elections and then they disappear, Patnaik told PTI Videos. CM Naveen Patnaik will sign power subsidy bill right after taking oath, says VK Pandian The ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) chief claimed that the speeches of those political leaders and ministers have no effect on the people of Odisha at all. And it's most unfortunate that many of them use derogatory and abusive language. I never believe in doing that and the people in our state don't appreciate such language, Patnaik asserted. Pradhan accuses BJD of neglecting Sambalpur, promises development During the last few days, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, former Tripura CM Biplab Kumar Deb and at least eight union ministers along with several senior BJP leaders have campaigned in Odisha, where Assembly and Lok Sabha polls are taking place together. On Friday, four rallies are being addressed by Sarma, three each by Sai and Sharma, two by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and one each by Union Home Minister Amit Shah and his cabinet colleague Bhupender Yadav. BJP MP Hema Malini is also speaking at three rallies during the day. People want to give Naveen rest, make BJP form government with two-thirds majority: Nadda

BJP Expels Veteran Leader Bijoy Mohapatra, Two Others for Anti-Party Activities

Bhubaneswar: Former Minister and senior leader Bijoy Mohapatra has been expelled from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ahead of the simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in Odisha. The BJP has expelled Mohapatra for alleged anti-party activities and indiscipline. Mohapatra was a member of BJP state executive in Odisha. The BJP has also expelled two [] The post BJP Expels Veteran Leader Bijoy Mohapatra, Two Others for Anti-Party Activities appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

Odisha: CM Naveen Patnaik holds roadshow in Bhubaneswar

The roadshow began at Ganganagar Chhak amid tight security with a large number of people lined up on both sides of the road to have a glimpse of the chief minister

IIT Bhubaneswar, NeXHS Renewables Join Hands for Renewable Energy Research

Bhubaneswar: Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar and Chennai-based NeXHS Renewables Private Limited have signed an MoU on 17th May 2024, with an objective to collaborate on various projects, initiatives, and research endeavours with a focus on advancing sustainable energy solutions. Under the Fund for Improvement of S&T Infrastructure (FIST) Scheme of the Ministry of [] The post IIT Bhubaneswar, NeXHS Renewables Join Hands for Renewable Energy Research appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

Friends indeed: Sunil Chhetri sounded out Virat Kohli before announcing retirement

NEW DELHI/BENGALURU: As Sunil Chhetri sat contemplating how he would break his retirement plans to the world, he knew there was one man who would understand what exactly he was going through and Virat Kohli did not disappoint the iconic Indian football captain. The 39-year-old Chhetri, the most capped India footballer with 150 matches to his credit and the country's top-scorer with 94 goals, will hang up his boots after the World Cup qualifying match against Kuwait on June 6 in Kolkata. Chhetri's announcement came on Thursday, driven by, what he described as, rather inexplicable instincts. And he chose Kohli as one of his confidantes before going public with his decision. I did talk to Virat Kohli before my retirement decision, he is very close to me. I discussed with him because we both understand that we would know this thing exactly the way it is, Chhetri said in an online media interaction from Bhubaneswar where he is currently part of a national camp for the World Cup qualifiers. The ups and downs of sports, this part of retirement, we do understand that the other person would understand, he added, trying to describe in words the deep bond they have shared over the years. Earlier on Friday, Kohli had acknowledged the communication from Chhetri and stated that his fellow Delhiite was at peace with the decision. Last hurrah: Chhetri set to walk into sunset He (Chhetri) is a really great player. He actually messaged me as well informing that he's going to do that. But I would actually say I felt like he is at peace with the decision, Kohli said in a short video interview on his IPL side Royal Challengers Bengaluru's 'X' page. I have become very close with him over the years and I wish the best. He is a lovely, lovely guy. Chhetri and Kohli have often spoken about each other fondly with the former stating that they share jokes and also some deep and meaningful chats whenever they catch up. It just hits the right note, Chhetri had stated in an earlier interaction. Kohli was among the first to offer support to Chhetri when he made an emotional plea to fans to show up for the national footballers during the 2018 Hero Cup in Mumbai. Kohli later described Chhetri as a man I can call a true friend. Very grateful for the friendship we have skip, he had stated on Chhetri's birthday in 2022. A look at 23 years of Sunil Chhetri's illustrious career Vamika has started batting: Kohli Kohli, besides talking about Chhetri, also informed that his daughter Vamika has recently started swinging the bat but said he would never force his kids to take up cricket. Kohli and his actor wife Anushka Sharma recently also welcomed a son, Akaay after the birth of Vamika in 2021. My daughter picked up a bat and she is really enjoying swinging the bat. But it's their choice, he said. RCB are currently placed sixth in the IPL standings with 12 points from 13 games and will take on defending champions Chennai Super Kings in a must-win match here on Friday. RCB made a remarkable comeback with five straight wins after enduring a six-game losing streak to stay afloat in the play-off race. The month of May has been very good. We found a ray of sunlight. We are glad that we have made the fans happy again, Kohli said of their fightback. Real legend of the game: Sports world pays tribute to Chhetri

Chhetri's Heartfelt Call to Kohli Before Retirement Reveal

Chhetri's Heartfelt Call to Kohli Before Retirement Reveal As Sunil Chhetri sat contemplating how he would break his retirement plans to the world, he knew there was one man who would understand what exactly he was going through and Virat Kohli did not disappoint the iconic Indian football captain. The 39-year-old Chhetri, the most capped India footballer with 150 matches to his credit and the country's top-scorer with 94 goals, will hang his boots after the World Cup qualifying match against Kuwait on June 6 in Kolkata. Chhetri's announcement came on Thursday, driven by, what he described as, rather inexplicable instincts. And he chose Kohli as one of his confidantes before going public with his decision. ''I did talk to Virat Kohli before my retirement decision, he is very close to me. I discussed with him because we both understand that we would know this thing exactly the way it is,'' Chhetri said in an online media interaction from Bhubaneswar where he is currently part of a national camp for the World Cup qualifiers. ''The ups and downs of sports, this part of retirement, we do understand that the other person would understand,'' he added, trying to describe in words the deep bond they have shared over the years. Earlier on Friday, Kohli had acknowledged the communication from Chhetri and stated that his fellow Delhiite was at peace with the decision. ''He (Chhetri) is a really great player. He actually messaged me as well informing that he's going to do that. But I would actually say I felt like he is at peace with the decision,'' Kohli said in a short video interview on his IPL side Royal Challengers Benagluru's 'X' page. ''I have become very close with him over the years and I wish the best. He is a lovely, lovely guy.'' Chhetri and Kohli have often spoken about each other fondly with the former stating that they share jokes and also some deep and meaningful chats whenever they catch up. ''...it just hits the right note,'' Chhetri had stated in an earlier interaction. Kohli was among the first to offer support to Chhetri when he made an emotional plea to fans to show up for the national footballers during the 2018 Hero Cup in Mumbai. Kohli later described Chhetri as ''a man I can call a true friend.'' ''Very grateful for the friendship we have skip,'' he had stated on Chhetri's birthday in 2022. Vamika has started batting: Kohli ===================== Kohli, besides talking about Chhetri, also informed that his daughter Vamika has recently started swinging the bat but said he would never force his kids to take up cricket. Kohli and his actor wife Anushka Sharma recently also welcomed a son, Akaay after the birth of Vamika in 2021. ''My daughter picked up a bat and she is really enjoying swinging the bat. But it's their choice,'' he said. RCB are currently placed sixth in the IPL standings with 12 points from 13 games and will take on defending champions Chennai Super Kings in a must-win match here on Friday. RCB made a remarkable comeback with five straight wins after enduring a six-game losing streak to stay afloat in the play-off race. ''The month of May has been very good. We found a ray of sunlight. We are glad that we have made the fans happy again,'' Kohli said of their fightback.

BJP will get 15 Lok Sabha, 75 Vidhan Sabha seats in Odisha: Amit Shah

Amit Shah aims for BJP's Odisha victory, targeting key issues like farmers' income and paddy prices. He criticizes Naveen Patnaik and BJD, emphasizing the need for change in governance for better agricultural prospects.

TYME: Empowering Tribal Youth With Flourishing Micro Biz Ideas

Bhubaneswar: Once migrated to Kerala and had worked in a shop as a sales assistant for over a year and a half, business ideas were there within the mind of Subash Pidisika of Alanda village in Budaguda gram panchayat under Kalyansingpur block of Rayagada District. For this enterprising tribal youth, assistance under Tribal Youth Micro [] The post TYME: Empowering Tribal Youth With Flourishing Micro Biz Ideas appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

PM Modi To Visit Odisha On May 19

Bhubaneswar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Odisha on May 19, informed State BJP chief Manmohan Samal. Modi will hold a review meeting with party workers at the State BJP office. The next day, on May 20, he will visit Puri to seek the blessings of Lord Jagannath before holding a roadshow there. He also [] The post PM Modi To Visit Odisha On May 19 appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

Heatwave Warning, Rain & Thundershower Alert For Odisha Districts

Bhubaneswar: The regional center of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Bhubaneswar has issued heatwave warnings amid a yellow alert for rain and thundershowers in several districts of Odisha during the next seven days. While light to moderate rain/thundershowers are very likely to occur at one or two places in south Odisha and dry [] The post Heatwave Warning, Rain & Thundershower Alert For Odisha Districts appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

The rate of corruption and unemployment has increased during BJD govt: Hema Malini

Bhubaneswar: While attending the partys Ashirwad Samavesh in Bhubaneswars Salia Sahi, senior BJP leader and veteran actress Hema Malini on Friday stated that the rate of corruption and unemployment has increased in Odisha in the last 25 years. Its also saddening that even though the state has abundant natural resources and many historic places, the [] The post The rate of corruption and unemployment has increased during BJD govt: Hema Malini appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

15 fall ill after inhaling toxic gas at prawn processing unit in Odisha

On May 17 in Balasore, at least 15 people became sick due to inhaling toxic gas released from a prawn processing plant located near Nilagiri in Balasore district of Odisha. The police reported this incident on Friday.

BJP is Making Noise to Boost the Morale of Its Cadre and Leaders; They Have Lost Their Self Confidence: Kartik Pandian

BJP is Making Noise to Boost the Morale of Its Cadre and Leaders; They Have Lost Their Self Confidence: Kartik Pandian Bhubaneswar: Senior Biju Janata Dal leader and 5T Chairman Kartik Pandian has said that the BJP is just making noise to boost the morale of its cadre and leaders. Responding to media queries, he [] The post BJP is Making Noise to Boost the Morale of Its Cadre and Leaders; They Have Lost Their Self Confidence: Kartik Pandian appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

BJD Leader Kartik Pandian Hits Back At Opposition Leaders For Spreading False Narratives On Puri Mathas

Bhubaneswar: Senior Biju Janata Dal leader and 5T Chairman Kartik Pandian has hit back on the opposition leaders for spreading false narratives on the Mathas of Puri. In a video released on Instagram, Kartik Pandian has said that For ages, Mathas have had an organic connection with Jagannath culture. Over the years, a lot commercial [] The post BJD Leader Kartik Pandian Hits Back At Opposition Leaders For Spreading False Narratives On Puri Mathas appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

Engineering works in Karaikudi: Train services cancelled, diverted on May 19

MADURAI: In view of disconnection and traffic block for facilitating engineering works at Karaikudi, Madurai division of the Southern Railway has made certain changes in the pattern of train services. In line with this, Tiruchy-Rameswaram Express (16849) leaving Tiruchy at 7.05 pm on May 19 and Rameswaram-Tiruchy Express (16850) departing from Rameswaram at 2.35 pm on May 19 have been cancelled. Likewise, Karaikudi-Tiruchy Passenger (06830) leaving Karaikudi at 3.30 pm on May 19 and Tiruchy-Karaikkudi Passenger (06125) leaving Tiruchy at 6.20 pm on May 19 have also been cancelled. Rameswaram-Bhubaneswar Superfast Express (20895) leaving Rameswaram at 8.40 am on May 19 will be diverted to run via Manamadurai, Madurai, Dindigul and Tiruchy skipping stoppages at Sivaganga, Karaikudi and Pudukkottai. Additional stoppages will be provided at Madurai and Dindigul for the convenience of passengers. Meanwhile, Tiruvarur-Karaikudi DEMU (06197) leaving Tiruvarur at 6.20 am on May 19 will be short terminated at Periyakottai, and will be partially cancelled between Periyakottai and Karaikudi. Also, Tiruchy-Karaikudi DEMU (06829) leaving Tiruchy at 10.15 am on May 19 will be short terminated at Chettinad, and partially cancelled between Chettinad and Karaikudi. Change in Origination of Train Service: Karaikudi-Tiruchy Passenger (06126) leaving Karaikudi at 7.05 am on May 19 will originate from Chettinad instead of Karaikkudi at 07.20 am. Rescheduling of Train Service: Karaikudi-Tiruvarur Passenger (06198) scheduled to leave Karaikkudi at 6 pm on May 19 has been rescheduled to leave Karaikkudi at 7 pm.

Odisha CM Naveens Campaign In Western Odisha and Dhenkanal Today

Bhubaneswar: With the 2nd phase voting in Odisha nearing very fast, the political atmosphere across the constituencies is heating up. Biju Janata Dal supremo and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik will hold marathon meetings in western Odisha and Dhenkanal district today. As per schedule, the Chief Minister will campaign for party candidates at Sambalpur, Redhakhol, [] The post Odisha CM Naveens Campaign In Western Odisha and Dhenkanal Today appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

Bollywood Actress And BJP Leader Hema Malini Arrives In Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: Veteran Bollywood actress and senior BJP leader Hema Malini arrived in Bhubaneswar to hit the campaign trail for the simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly polls in Odisha. Upon arrival, the veteran actress said, Odisha will have a double-engine government. People of Odisha are deprived of the benefits of many central schemes. So, a change [] The post Bollywood Actress And BJP Leader Hema Malini Arrives In Bhubaneswar appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .

DMs asked to look after leprosy patients

BHUBANESWAR: The Department of Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities on Thursday directed collectors of nine districts to strictly implement Orissa High Courts orders in connection with treatment, rehabilitation and other aspects of leprosy-affected persons. In a directive to collectors of Bargarh, Balasore, Cuttack, Jajpur, Jharsuguda, Khurda, Mayurbhanj, Puri and Sundargarh, the department asked them to ensure regular visits of district welfare officers and medical teams to rehabilitation colonies of leprosy patients, cleaning and sanitation of the colonies, skill development of the patients and their families, and follow up on concerning issues relating to surgery, implants, distribution of micro-cellular rubber footwear, wheelchairs and other ancillary items to them. The high court had last year appointed three amicus curiaeadvocates Bibhu Prasad Tripathy, Gautam Mishra and Pami Rathto learn about the various problems faced by leprosy patients. A PIL was filed by Bipin Bihari Pradhan, general secretary of state leprosy welfare federation, in 2015, seeking direction to the government for effective implementation of the National Leprosy Eradication Programme.

Odisha pact with APEDA to export fruits, vegetables

BHUBANESWAR: Directorate of Horticulture has entered into a collaboration with Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) to revamp market linkage of farmer producer organisations (FPOs) in Odisha and tap global markets. With the help of Palladium as the technical support unit of the promotion and stabilisation of farmer producer organisations (PSFPOs), this strategic alliance aims at facilitating the seamless integration of Odishas premium mango and fresh vegetables produce into international markets. Through the initiative, the state FPOs marked a significant milestone with the first commercial shipment of fresh produce shipped via Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) on May 15. Around 0.75 tonne of fresh produce has been shipped to Dubai, with an incremental price realisation of 20 to 30 per cent for the farmers. Around 0.5 tonne of the fresh produce was supplied by Madanamohana Farmers Producer Cooperative Society Ltd, an FPO supported by Harsh Trust from Odapada block of Dhenkanal district. Additionally, 1.22 tonne of Amrapali mangoes and Dussehri mangoes from the FPO have been exported to Italy, in the last two days achieving a 40 per cent increase in price realisation for the farmers. Regional head of APEDA Sitakanata Mandal said this partnership marks a significant milestone in the agricultural landscape of the region. We began exporting fresh produce to Dubai and Italy markets. The collaboration will help create a sustainable market linkage of the FPOs with remunerative markets, both domestic and international, which have high demand for fresh produce, he said. Associate director of Palladium Biswajit Behera said Odisha has a huge potential for supply of fresh produce to global markets. The state has more than 800 FPOs. Such global market connects will not only boost the confidence of farmers from remote parts of the state but also offer opportunities to scale up their supply positions with cost efficient quality control systems in place.