50-year-old mans head found after three days
BERHAMPUR: After a three-day search, police on Thursday recovered the severed head of a 50-year-old man from a bush on the riverbank opposite Barasahi village under Badimunda panchayat within Tikabali police limits in Kandhamal district. The headless torso of Pabitra Pradhan, a resident of Barasahi, was found on the riverbank near the village on Monday. Police said the severed head of Pradhan was found with the help of sniffer dog. It was sent for forensic examination after identification by family members of the victim. Sources said on Monday, Pradhan had gone to his orchard located on the riverbank with some of his goats. But he did not return home till evening. Family members launched a search and found his headless body at the orchard in the night. The next day, Kandhamal SP Harisha BC, G Udayagiri SDPO Bijay Bisi and senior police officers along with scientific team and sniffer dog reached the spot for investigation. The body was sent for autopsy and basing on circumstantial evidence, police registered a murder case. Though family members have denied any previous enmity, villagers suspect that Pradhan might have been killed over suspicion of sorcery. Meanwhile, police have detained four villagers after recovering Pradhans severed head. Sources said the suspects are being interrogated. However, police refused to divulge any detail of the case as investigation was underway. The weapon used to behead Pradhan is yet to be traced.
Teenager drops iPhone in pond, fire fighters sweat
BERHAMPUR: In an unusual operation, a fire fighters team conducted an extensive search after a 10th class student lost his iPhone in a pond at Biju Patnaik park here. On March 24, 16-year-old M Sidhartha Rao accidentally dropped his cell phone - an iPhone 16 Plus - into the water while boating with his friends. Following the incident, he filed a complaint with the cyber police and requested the Berhampur Development Authority (BeDA) to assist in recovering the device. Responding to the request, BeDA directed the fire brigade to conduct a search. An eight-member team spent several hours searching the pond using specialised equipment, including oxygen masks but failed to locate the phone on Thursday. Assistant fire officer Thakur Prasad Dalai confirmed the search was carried out as per BeDAs instructions. However, local residents questioned the extensive resources deployed for a missing phone, which required involvement of multiple government agencies in such a minor incident. They also questioned the minors access to the boating facility without guardians in company.
Young couple killed as three-wheeler cargo hits bike
BERHAMPUR: A young couple was killed after a three-wheeler cargo vehicle hit their scooter near Budhamba within Kodala police limits in Ganjam district on Wednesday. Police identified the deceased as Kanhu Dakua (29) and his wife Swapna (24) of Salabana village. Miraculously, the couples four-year-old daughter escaped unhurt in the mishap. Sources said Kanhu, his wife and daughter were travelling to Kakarapani village on a scooter. On way, the cargo van rammed into their two-wheeler near Budhamba. Due to the impact of the collision, the couple was thrown off and hit the road hard while their daughter fell in a nearby bush. Kanhu and Swapna suffered severe head injuries and bled profusely from their nose and ear. However, their daughter escaped unhurt. Locals rushed the injured couple to Kodala hospital where both of them succumbed to injuries. As the news of the mishap spread, locals staged road blockade for an hour demanding compensation for the bereaved family. The protest was later called off after intervention of police.
Six members of all-women chain snatching gang held
BERHAMPUR: Berhampur police busted an inter-state all-women gang of chain snatchers by arresting six of its members and their driver from Cuttack on Wednesday. Police seized several stolen gold chains, Rs 25,000 cash, cutter and an SUV from the accused - Nagu Behera (46), S Puspa (50), Basanti Rao (62), Mina Rao (43), H Puspa (50), Sabita Sahu (32) and their driver Bijay Jena (26). The gang was reportedly involved in robbing several elderly women in crowded temples. Sources said a gold chain was snatched from an elderly woman inside the Jagannath temple at Courtpeta in Berhampur on February 8. As part of investigation, police analysed the CCTV footage and arrested one Parvati Nayak (55) of Cuttack. The stolen gold chain was also recovered from her possession. Suspecting her to be a part of a chain-snatching gang, police kept a track of the persons who visited the jail to meet Parvati. The cops found that several women visited the jail in an SUV. Subsequently, the four-wheelers registration number was traced to Cuttack. A team of police reached Cuttack on Tuesday and arrested Bijay, the car owner. Police said during interrogation, Bijay reportedly revealed the names of the gang members and their modus operandi. The gang, led by Parvati, visited crowded temples during auspicious occasions, and targeted elderly women wearing gold chains. If a victims neck was covered, the thieves would allegedly lift the saree, remove the chain with a cutter, and quickly pass it to another member. Bijay said that he transported the women members of the gang to different places across the state including Berhampur, Puri, Dhenkanal, Jagatsinghpur, Paradip, Khurda, Jajpur and Bhubaneswar to commit the thefts. After snatching the ornaments, they would return to Cuttack, sell the gold and divide the money. Bijay received a share of the profits. All the accused were produced in court and further investigation is underway to nab the other members of the gang, police said.
Life sentence for Odisha woman who throttled mentally disabled victim
Berhampur: A local court in Odisha Wednesday sentenced a 48-year-old woman to life imprisonment for killing a mentally challenged woman two years ago. District and sessions judge Rupashree Choudhury awarded life imprisonment to Rubita Adhikari for killing Bishnupriya Sahu (38) in Ganjam districts K Nuagaon police station limits January 8, 2023. The court pronounced the []
Bandh observed in Tikabali as cops nab four for gang-rape and murder of college girl
BERHAMPUR/PHULBANI: Normal life was affected at Tikabali in Kandhamal district as various local outfits observed dawn to dusk bandh protesting the alleged gang-rape and murder of a minor college girl. Business establishments and educational institutions remained closed during the bandh which passed off peacefully. The bandh was spearheaded by Tikabali traders association. The 16-year-old deceased, a Plus Two first year student, had gone missing on February 27. Her skeletal remains were found at the foothill of Ketamani near Gajalbadi village within Sorada police limits in Ganjam district on Saturday. On Sunday evening, Tikabali police arrested four youths for allegedly gang-raping and murdering the girl. The accused, Bijay Nayak (21), Sanjib Sahu (20), Dipak Sahu (22) and Chandan Sethy (22), were hiding in a house at Odagaon in Nayagarh district when they were nabbed. Police said Bijay was in a relationship with the girl. On February 27, he asked the minor to come to Sankarakhol. The girl left her home on pretext of attending tuition classes and reached Sankarakhol market. Bijay along with his friends Sanjib, Dipak and Chandan took the girl in a car to Sarangagada where they purchased some fruits and a knife before proceeding towards a park at Daringibadi. By the time they reached Daringibadi, the park was closed. The accused then took the girl to Gajalbadi and raped her by taking turns near Ketamani hill. They then stabbed her to death. To destroy evidence, the accused setthe girls body afire with petrol. Tikabali police recorded the confession of the accused. As the deceaseds skeletal remains were found in Ganjam, the four were handed over to Sorada police. Sorada IIC Kailash Chandra Sahu said the accused were produced in court.
Man gets life term for killing elderly
Berhampur: Ganjam District and Sessions Judge Rupashree Chaudhary Monday convicted a man for killing 67-year-old Ranka Sethi and sentenced him to life imprisonment. Sethi was murdered December 11, 2023, in the second lane of Gandhinagar area under the jurisdiction of Town police station. The incident stemmed from a petty altercation, which enraged the accused identified []
Second wave arribada at Rushikulya brings joy, and worry for officials
BHUBANESWAR : The second wave of arribada at Rushikulya rookery in Ganjam district - a rare occurrence at Olive Ridley turtle nesting sites - has brought both joy and worry for forest officials. While more than 1.2 lakh turtles have already laid their eggs during the second phase of nesting which started from Friday, the nesting has raised fears over the safety of the eggs that had been laid during the first phase in February. The officials are now in wait and watch mode to see what impact the two mass nesting events will have on hatchlings. Officials of Berhampur forest division said the mass nesting resumed on March 21 was expected to end by Sunday. However, despite rains, it is continuing and expected to go on for a few more days. About 1.2 lakh Olive Ridleys have already laid eggs in this phase. We are expecting the number to go close to two lakh as a large number of turtles are still congregated in the shore waters and ready to lay eggs, said assistant conservator of forests of Khalikote, Dibya Shankar Behera. However, with the turtles laying eggs at the same stretch where the arribada in the first phase continued from February 16 to 23, at least 5 to 10 per cent eggs may get damaged in the process. Hatching of crores of eggs laid previously by the Olive Ridleys on the 7-10 km stretch of the rookery is fast approaching and expected to take place anytime in the first two weeks of April. The second wave of nesting at the same site within the same season has presented a significant challenge. As new turtles arrive to lay eggs, their digging activity risks disturbing and damaging the earlier nests, potentially affecting the survival of the hatchlings already developing beneath the sand. It takes around 45 days for the eggs to hatch, Behera said. Berhampur DFO Sunny Khokhar said all protection measures for the turtles have been put in place. However, it is to be seen what impact the two arribadas will have on hatchlings at the site this year, he said. Rabindranath Sahu, the founding head of Rushikulya Sea Turtle Protection Committee, said, This is the fourth time mass nesting has taken place twice in a season at the site. Previously, such nestings had been recorded in 2006, 2011 and 2018. However, the phenomenon is something that no one can do much about, he said. In the first wave, Rushikulya rookery saw a record 7.2 lakh Olive Ridley turtles arriving at the nesting site this year, the highest in recent decades. The arribada lasted for eight days, from February 16 to 23.
Two minor sisters die after eating spurious chhatua
BERHAMPUR : Two minor siblings died and two of their family members were taken seriously ill after allegedly consuming chhatua at Tulasinagar village within R Udayagiri police limits in Gajapati district on Sunday. The deceased were identified as Tulasi Badamundi (6) and Gunabati Badamundi (3). Their uncle Arjun Badamundi (46) and his daughter Sumitra Badamundi (12) have been admitted to the hospital in a critical condition. Sources said the Badamundi family consumed the chhatua, which they received from the anganwadi worker of Ramagiri, in the morning. At around 1.30 pm, Tulasi and Gunabati complained of uneasiness and were rushed to Ramagiri hospital. During treatment, Tulasi died at around 4:30 pm. Subsequently, Sumitra and Arjun also became unwell and were admitted to the same hospital. As there was no improvement in their condition, the three of them were shifted to the district headquarters hospital at Paralakhemundi where Gunabati died at around 9:30 pm. When their condition deteriorated further, Sumitra and Arjun were shifted to MKCG Medical College and Hospital in the wee hours of Monday. They were admitted to the ICU. Dr Chitta Ranjan Khatual of MKCG MCH said the father-daughter duo was brought to the hospital with severe stomach ache and loose motion. Both of them have responded to the treatment and are stable. They are under observation in the ICU. He said the duo told him that they consumed the chhatua after mixing it with hot water. However, the cause might be different as others who ate the same chhatua are normal. Meanwhile, Gajapati collector Bijay Dash has ordered an inquiry into the incident. Dash said many families in Tulasinagar village received the same chhatua and consumed it but none complained of uneasiness. However, samples of the chhatua provided to Badamundi family have been collected and sent for examination. The anganwadi worker concerned has been directed not to distribute the chhatua till the test results are received.
MKCG MCH emerges countrys ragging hotspot
BHUBANESWAR : The MKCG medical college and hospital (MKCG MCH) at Berhampur tops the list of medical colleges in the country that witness the maximum number of ragging complaints. So does Berhampur University among public universities and Biju Patnaik University of Technology (BPUT) in Rourkela when it comes to technical universities. An analysis of ragging complaints registered between 2022 and 2024 at the UGCs National Anti-Ragging Helpline, published by the Society Against Violence in Education (SAVE) on Monday, revealed that educational institutions in Odisha continue to report a majority of ragging cases in the country, be it in general or technical education fields. The State of Ragging in India 2022-24 states that MKCG MCH, among the medical colleges, has become a hotspot of ragging. Among 12 MCHs across the country that saw filing of a significant number of complaints, MKCG topped the list with 25 complaints lodged in three years ending December 2024. It was followed by Pt Jawahar Lal Nehru Memorial Medical College at Raipur (15 complaints), Vardhman Institute of Medical Sciences at Bihar (14), Takmeel-Ut-Tib College & Hospital at Uttar Pradesh (12) and Maulana Azad Medical College at New Delhi (11). BPUT, which is the largest technical university in the state, comes fourth in the list of top-5 technical universities with most complaints. It has reported 28 complaints with the helpline while Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University of Technology in Kolkata tops the list with 74 complaints. Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology at Burla saw eight ragging cases in this period. When it comes to technical colleges, be it engineering or polytechnic, Odishas Indira Gandhi Institute of Technology at Sarang (Dhenkanal) comes second in this list with 22 complaints. Similarly, Berhampur University is among the top universities with 31 complaints. Within this period, the state also saw three alleged ragging deaths. In over a decade, the anti-ragging helpline has logged over 8,000 complaints and among the states that reported a majority of them is Odisha with 517 complaints. While the dean of MKCG MCH could not be reached for comments, a member of the anti-ragging squad of the institution said many of these cases are a result of infighting among students. We are following all the UGC guidelines to avoid ragging on our campus including strict action against the perpetrators of the crime. In December last year, an assistant professor and three senior residents were suspended for six months and in November, five MBBS students were expelled from the hostel for ragging, he said. Anti-ragging activist and vice-president of SAVE Gaurav Singhal said the above-mentioned complaints are just the ones registered with the helpline. In reality, there are a huge number of complaints that are registered directly in colleges and police which do not reflect in the anti-ragging helpline. Concerning Scenario MKCG has reported 25 ragging complaints in 3 years ending Dec 2024 BPUT 4th in the list of top-5 tech universities with most complaints Eight ragging cases reported from VSSUT, Burla during this period The state has seen three alleged ragging deaths in this period 517 ragging complaints reported from Odisha in over a decade
Skeletal remains of missing girl found in Odisha's Ganjam
BERHAMPUR: The half-burnt skeletal remains, believed to be that of a minor girl, were found at the foothills of Ketamani near Gajalbadi village in Ganjam district on Sunday. A group of villagers first spotted the skeleton and found a partially-burnt chudidar, a necklace, knife and two mobile phones lying nearby. On being informed, Aska SDPO Santosh Jena and Sorada IIC Sudhir Kumar Sahu along with scientific team reached the scene. Police said prima facie, it appears that the skeleton belongs to a minor girl who went missing in February. On February 27, a missing report of a minor girl was filed in Tikabali police station. The girls father was brought to the spot and he identified the skeletal remains and other items to be that of his daughter. The partially-burnt skeleton along with other items were seized and sent for DNA examination.
Second phase of Olive Ridley mass nesting at Rushikulya
BERHAMPUR: After a gap of seven years, Rushikulya river mouth is witnessing two phases of mass nesting of Olive Ridley turtles. While the first phase of the arribada took place from February 16 to 23, during which 6.98 lakh Olive Ridleys laid eggs, the second phase of nesting began on Saturday. Around 38,779 turtles laid eggs on the stretch of the rookery from Purunabandh to Bateswar on the first day of the second phase. Assistant conservator of forests (ACF) in-charge of Khallikote range Dibya Shankar Behera said, Necessary protective measures are in place for the eggs following the second phase of mass nesting. A total of 20 forest personnel have been deployed to guard the turtles which came to lay eggs, apart from the 180 staff and local volunteers, who were appointed earlier, he added. Senior scientist of Zoological Survey of Indias regional centre, Gopalpur, Anil Mohapatra said, The second phase of the arribada will continue for the next few days as a large number of Olive Ridley turtles are still in the sea and trying to reach the beach to lay eggs. Though mass hatchling is yet to be witnessed, sporadic hatchlings have begun to appear on the beach since the last few days. Usually, the hatchlings emerge from the shells after 45 to 50 days of laying eggs, experts said. The second phase of mass nesting was earlier recorded in the rookery in 2018 and over 37,000 Olive Ridleys had laid eggs during that phase from April 20 to 27. Odisha: 10 tagged Olive Ridley turtles return to Gahirmatha after four years
Miscreants assault stray dog with swords in Odisha, cops start probe
BERHAMPUR: Berhampur police on Sunday registered a case against unidentified miscreants for allegedly attacking a stray dog with swords at Gandhi Nagar. The police action came after a CCTV footage of the appalling act of animal cruelty, which was reportedly carried out in the wee hours of Saturday, went viral on social media. In the footage, eight bike-borne miscreants can be seen attacking the dog after the stray barked at them. They mercilessly assault the dog with swords, leaving it critically injured. The incident came to light after residents of Gandhi Nagar found blood stains outside their houses on Saturday morning. Suspecting it to be human blood, they informed the local police. Basing on the information, police launched an investigation and scanned the footage of CCTV cameras installed in the area. It was ascertained that the blood stains were from the dog which suffered injuries in the attack. Though no formal complaint was lodged in this regard, police suo motu registered a case and started investigation. Locals suspect that the group of bike-borne miscreants involved in the attack on the dog might be involved in a chain snatching incident which took place in the area on Friday.
Stray dog assaulted with sharp weapons in Odisha, case registered
Berhampur: Odisha Police Sunday registered a case of animal cruelty against unidentified persons for allegedly assaulting a stray dog with sharp weapons in Berhampur city in the early hours of Saturday, an official said. The case was registered against unknown persons under different sections of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1960 and the []
Two held for SIM card sale to foreigners at Odisha's Gopalpur port
BERHAMPUR: Aryapalli Maritime police on Friday arrested two persons, including a foreman of Gopalpur port, on charges of illegal sale of Indian SIM cards to foreign nationals who arrived at the port by sea route. The accused were identified as G Shamba, the 49-year-old foreman, and A Kamaya, who owns a mobile phone shop. Both belong to Katuru village under Ganjams Chhatrapur block. A total of 70 SIM cards and $22 were seized from them. Chhatrapur SDPO Chandan Ghadei said that following a tip-off that Indian SIM cards were being illegally sold to foreign nationals, police were monitoring the situation. When a ship anchored at the port on Friday, a police team reached the spot. The police found Shambas activities near the ship suspicious, following which they questioned him. Shamba said that he was a foreman at the port but could not explain his presence at the scene, after which the police conducted a search and seized 34 pre-activated SIM cards from him. Upon further questioning, he admitted to being at the port to sell the SIM cards, which he had purchased from Kamaya. Following this, police raided Kamayas shop and seized more 36 SIM cards from him. Further investigations revealed that Shamba purchased SIM cards from Kamaya at a price of Rs 40 and used to sell them to foreign nationals for as high as Rs 2,000. The foreigners reportedly used these SIMs for WhatsApp calls and data services and destroy them before leaving the port. Ghadei said that further investigation is on to find out if anyone else was involved in the illegal trade. Officials from Gopalpur port were unavailable for comment on the issue.
Lightning kills minor in Odisha's Ganjam, deluge hits Berhampur city
BERHAMPUR: Normal life was thrown out of gear across Ganjam after heavy rain accompanied by hailstorm and lightning lashed the district, particularly Berhampur city on Saturday. A 15-year-old boy of Narayanpur village lost his life after being struck by lightning while he was returning home from Bomkai village. He was taken to Digapahandi hospital where doctors declared him brought dead. Though the sudden rain, which began at around 12 pm, initially brought relief for the people, it soon started pouring heavily, submerging roads and houses specially those in low-lying areas. Even the ground floor of MKCG medical college and hospital was completely waterlogged. The downpour continued till around 2 pm in which Berhampur town recorded the highest rainfall. Citizens were gripped by panic as they were not prepared to deal with the situation. Residents of Berhampur town blamed the BeMC for its apathy in repairing or cleaning the drains as most of them were clogged with waste leading to a flood-like situation. While the roads and many houses were submerged in knee-deep water, trees got uprooted in several places. After the rain stopped, fire fighters reached the affected areas and began dewatering and clearing the roads of broken tree branches. They also rescued a 50-year-old woman of Premnagar who was stuck in her house in waist-deep water. Collector Dibyajyoti Parida directed the departments concerned to visit the affected areas to take stock of the situation. Till last report came in, the rainwater had receded in several areas but muddy roads and garbage scattered all around posed inconvenience for commuters.
Rushikulya river mouth witnesses second phase mass nesting of Olive Ridley turtles
Berhampur: The second phase of mass nesting of Olive Ridley turtles began in the Rushikulya river mouth in Odishas Ganjam district Saturday, officials said. The unique phenomena of these endangered sea species were witnessed after a gap of seven years in the Rushikulya rookery, they said. A total of 38,779 turtles laid eggs in the []
26 Gajapati cops injured in ganja smugglers attack in Odisha
BERHAMPUR: In a shocking display of lawlessness, ganja smugglers backed by locals launched an attack on a police raid party, leaving 26 cops injured in Pidiari village under Mohona block in Gajapati during early hours of Friday. The police party was also detained for seven hours in the village and were released after reinforcement came in. From 4 am till 11 am, the police party remained in the custody of the villagers. They were only released following repeated negotiations, and were subsequently taken to Chandragiri hospital for treatment. Following information that huge quantity of ganja was stored in Pindari, officers from Mohona, Adava, R Udayagiri, along with two platoons of police raided the village in the wee hours of Friday. A total of 21 quintal of ganja was seized from the village and transported to Mohona police station in a vehicle. Later, the team seized over 50 more quintals of ganja and loaded it in four vehicles. However, on the way, they were intercepted by a large mob. Although there had been some initial resistance during the seizure, ganja traders managed to rally the locals who blocked the road with chopped trees. Before the police could react, the mob attacked the officers with sticks and stones, injuring several cops. The attackers also stole the seized ganja and snatched mobile phones from the officers. The situation escalated as the mob cordoned off the area, trapping the police. Gajapati SP Jatindra Panda confirmed injuries to the police personnel and the damage to the vehicles. A case has been filed against the attackers, and strict action will be taken against them, Panda added. Police have been deployed in the region to maintain law and order.
Senior officer Prem Kumar Jha to be full-time PCCF (wildlife) in IFS reshuffling
BHUBANESWAR: The state government on Friday effected a reshuffle in the IFS cadre, posting senior officer Prem Kumar Jha as the PCCF wildlife and managing director of Odisha Forest Development Corporation (OFDC). The government also appointed 1993 batch IFS officer Uma Nanduri as the PCCF (kendu leaf) on her return from central deputation. Odisha State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB) member-secretary K Murugesan has been posted as the additional PCCF and nodal officer in the PCCF and HoFF office, while CCF wildlife Manoj V Nair has been posted as the director Nandankanan and CEO CAMPA. Former director of mines G Rajesh has been posted as director in-charge-cum-special secretary in the Forest and Environment department, while M Yogajayananda, serving as the CEO CAMPA, has been posted as RCCF Bhubaneswar circle with additional charge of chief executive, Chilika Development Authority. Sudhanshu Sekhar Khora, RCCF Angul, has been posted as the member-secretary of OSPCB while RCCF, Berhampur, Sanjaya Kumar Swain has been posted as RCCF Angul. P Arthanari has been posted as the conservator of forests, Cuttack KL circle, along with additional charge of OFDC GM Bhubaneswar (C) zone while Vishwanath Neelannavar has been posted as RCCF, Berhampur. The notification, however, has not named the new CCF Wildlife.
Odisha government to set up complexes for urban waste management
BHUBANESWAR: With urban waste management posing a big challenge, the Housing and Urban Development department is planning to set up integrated waste processing complexes in the major cities and towns to effectively tackle the menace. The state generates about 1,847 tonne per day (TPD) solid waste apart from hundreds of tonnes of wet waste. Further, it has 83 large dump sites spread across the urban areas where around 24 lakh tonne of legacy waste are yet to be remediated. Considering the large-scale generation of waste, Housing and Urban Development minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra has asked department authorities to look into the establishment of integrated waste processing complexes in municipal corporations and larger municipalities. These complexes will have all types of processing plants including compressed biogas (CBG) plants for easy disposal of waste and reduction of transportation and infrastructure costs. The minister has also directed the officials to expedite the process of CBG plant establishment in five municipal corporations of Berhampur, Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Sambalpur and Rourkela along with the Puri-Konark and Boudhgarh-Sonepur clusters. The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation has been instructed to expedite the processing and clearing the accumulated garbage at temporary transit station near Sainik School and also operationalise the mega waste processing centre at Palasuni. The civic body will also take up renovation and refurbishment of all non-functioning toilets and e-toilets under its jurisdiction on priority. A decision was also taken to develop a digital application for sanitation monitoring in all municipal corporations and municipalities in line with the Safa app of BMC. Mahapatra also recommended integrating all such applications with the Sujog platform of the H&UD department for effective monitoring of the projects and works at the department level.
Odisha: PEO arrested for misappropriating over Rs 43 lakh for online gaming
Berhampur: A Panchayat Executive Officer (PEO) in Odishas Ganjam district was arrested by the state vigilance Friday for allegedly embezzling government funds of over Rs 43 lakh for cricket betting and online gaming, an officer said. Khetramohan Nayak of Radhadeipur gram panchayat under Sanakhemundi block allegedly misappropriating funds from different accounts of the panchayat by []
Odisha PEO arrested for embezzling Rs 43 lakh, gambling on apps
BHUBANESWAR: A panchayat executive officer (PEO) in Odishas Ganjam district was arrested for allegedly embezzling Rs 43 lakh of government funds and using the money on betting and gaming apps. Khetramohan Nayak, posted as PEO of Radhadeipur panchayat under Sanakhemundi block, was taken into custody by Vigilance officials on Friday. Investigations revealed that Nayak siphoned funds from the Central Finance Commission, State Finance Commission, public distribution system, and old age pension accounts of the panchayat. He allegedly forged the sarpanchs signatures and withdrew money through cheques. The panchayats accounts were maintained at Axis Bank and Canara Bank in Digapahandi. Nayak used the ill-gotten money in cricket and gaming apps, said a Vigilance officer. The preliminary probe suggested he had been embezzling funds since joining duty in July 2024. Berhampur Vigilance registered a case against Nayak and arrested him. Further investigations are underway, said sources.
MLAs urge Majhi for NIPER in Berhampur
Home and Decor expo to be 10-day affair in Bhubaneshwar
BHUBANESWAR: The Confederation of Real Estate Developers Association of India (CREDAI)s Odisha chapter is all set to host a 10-day-long Home and Decor Expo-2025 at Janata Maidan here from April 18 to 27. The event will bring together buyers, builders, investors, interior designers and building material companies under one roof and offer an unparalleled opportunity to explore the latest trends in real estate and home decor. CREDAI officials said the expo will cater to the needs of prospective home buyers, real estate investors and industry professionals. It will feature an extensive range of residential and commercial property, smart city developments and luxurious villa projects, and provide an opportunity to the buyers to take informed investment decisions. Over 300 developers are expected to participate in the expo and CREDAIs district chapters from Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Berhampur, Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, Balasore and Puri will showcase their most sought-after projects. The expo will give a platform to potential buyers/investors to directly interact with top developers, banks and financial institutions to execute exclusive deals, CREDAI officials said. The event will consist of live demonstrations and interactive exhibits featuring the latest home decor, smart technologies and eco-friendly building solutions. While potential home buyers will get exclusive access to top developers, special pricing and easy financing options, investors can explore high-yielding opportunities in the states rapidly growing market, CREDAI chairman DS Tripathy told mediapersons on Wednesday. Senior members of CREDAI were present in the press meet.
IISER Berhampur Medical Practitioners Recruitment 2025 Walk in for 04 Posts
Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER Berhampur) Recruitment 2025 for 04 posts of Medical Practitioners. Candidates with MS/MD Can attend the walkin.The Walk-in interview on 24-03-2025. For detailed information please visit IISER Berhampur official website, iiserbpr.ac.in/.
Father, son among three hacked to death over sorcery slur in Odisha's Ganjam
BERHAMPUR: Three persons including a father-son duo were hacked to death in a sorcery-related group clash at Kharpali village within Badagada police limits in Ganjam district on Tuesday evening. Police identified the deceased as Khadala Behera (60), his son Ratnakar Behera (30) and one Ramesh Behera (45). The violent clash took place at around 7.15 pm. Sources said Khadala and Ratnakar were socially boycotted by villagers for the last three years after being accused of practising sorcery. However, the duo lived in Kharpali despite having a bitter relationship with fellow villagers. In the evening, a quarrel broke out between the father-son duo and villagers reportedly over fetching water from a well. When the duo beat up a couple of villagers, others reached the spot with sharp weapons. Khadala and Ratnakar also brought out sharp weapons and a violent clash ensued. The duo mercilessly attacked the villagers injuring four of them. Enraged, villagers attacked the father and son en masse. Though Khadala and Ratnakar tried to flee the spot, the villagers hacked them after a brief chase. The father-son duo was killed instantly. Sources said the villagers were so infuriated that they continuously hit the duo with sharp weapons even after their deaths. Subsequently, the four injured villagers were rushed to Dharakote hospital where Ramesh succumbed to his injuries. The three other injured were shifted to MKCG Medical College and Hospital, Berhampur. After the clash, villagers reportedly set fire to the house of Khadala. However, the fire was later doused when it started to spread to other houses. On being informed, the sub-divisional police officer of Aska along with Badagada and Dharakote IICs reached Kharpali village to take stock of the situation. However, they were prevented from entering the village by irate locals. The senior officers have reportedly sought more platoons of police force to bring the situation under control. Till reports last came in, police were waiting at the entry point of the village. Despite repeated attempts, no police officer was available for comment.
At least 3 killed, 3 injured in group clash over suspected witchcraft in Ganjam
Berhampur: At least three persons were killed and three others seriously injured in the clash between two groups over suspected witchcraft practice in Odishas Ganjam district Tuesday, police said. The clash took place at Kharipalli village. The clash broke out due to the suspected witchcraft in the village, police said. The deceased were identified as []
At least 30 injured after van overturns in Ganjam
Berhampur: At least 30 people were injured when a pick-up van overturned in Odishas Ganjam district Tuesday, police said. Local fire service teams rushed to the spot and rescued the injured persons, and admitted them to a community health centre in Digapahandi, they said. Out of those injured, at least eight have been referred to []
Holi violence erupts: Six killed across Odisha, including two in Bhubaneswar
Holi celebrations turned bloody in the state with at least six murders, including two in the capital city, taking place due to drunkenness and over flimsy grounds. In the capital city Bhubaneswar, both the killings were reported to be carried out under the influence of alcohol. The first occurred at Mancheswar Industrial Estate where one Tanmay Behera stabbed another Ayushman Pati in the chest in the heat of an argument over a petty issue. The victim was rushed to the Capital Hospital where he was declared brought dead. Police said, Tanmay of Begunia was staying on rent in Mancheswar and known to Ayushman, a local. But, both were not on good terms. During Holi celebrations, both had allegedly consumed liquor and crossed path in a drunken state. After committing the crime, Tanmay informed his brothers Prashant and Padmanav about the matter and they rushed to facilitate his escape. The brothers along with an accomplice Samir Kumar Swain first took Tanmay to Nayagarh in a car but the police tracked their location and chased them. They then took him towards Pipili in an auto-rickshaw. Meanwhile, fearing arrest, Tanmay reportedly consumed a toxic fig (dimiri) to inflict self-harm, but police nabbed the four in time. Tanmay was treated at the Madanpur CHC for poisoning. All the four have been arrested and forwarded to court. In the second incident, two groups had an argument in Shantipalli Basti within Saheed Nagar police limits during the celebrations. Police said the victim Gopi Guni had a heated exchange with Pinku Guni, his 17-year-old minor son and their relative Bana Guni. Pinku and the minor boy allegedly held Gopi, and Bana stabbed him with a knife. Police said Gopi and Pinku were working as labourers and Bana was unemployed. Pinku was apprehended and the minor boy detained, but Bana is still at large. Both Pinku and Bana have criminal antecedents. Preliminary probe suggests both the murders took place over sudden provocation. Investigation also revealed the prime accused of the two cases were under the influence of alcohol, said DCP, Jagmohan Meena. In neighbouring Cuttack, a 25-year-old youth shot dead an acquaintance following a heated exchange of words in an inebriated condition over spilling water on a carrom board. The accused, Prakash Sutar alias Kitu of Pattamundai in Kendrapara, is an interior designer by profession. The deceased, Bikash Mohanty of Birang in Jagatsinghpur, ran a motor spare parts shop in Phulnakhara locality. DCP Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo said the deceased was friends with Kitus cousins who live in a rented accommodation at Dwaraka Chouk in Srikrishna Vihar here. On Saturday night, Kitu, his cousins along with a few friends including Bikash were having a feast for Holi. They were all drinking and playing carrom when Bikash poured water on the carrom board. This angered Kitu and an argument broke out between the duo. Provoked, he pulled out a pistol and shot Bikash, killing him on the spot, the DCP said. In Sambalpur, a 25-year-old youth Sahul Singh allegedly stabbed an 18-year-old Aditya Salema to death at Sahu Colony under Town police limits. According to reports, on Saturday morning, while Aditya was at his home, Sahul sent some boys to call him. When Aditya went to meet him, they got into a verbal duel and in a fit of rage, Sahul stabbed Aditya on his back. Sahul fled the spot soon after the incident and Aditya was rushed to DHH where he was pronounced death. Following his death, the locals of his neighbourhood created ruckus and demanded immediate arrest of the accused. To control the situation, two platoons of police were deployed at the spot and after a brief search, the accused was nabbed by police. Two more persons were killed in Berhampur and Angul. A contractor T Ramchandra Patra was allegedly murdered by one Chandan Sahu alias Papun after he allegedly refused to give him money for booze at Lanjipalli in Berhampur. Police said, Patra was chatting with some of his friends in front of his house after playing Holi when Papun reached there. They exchanged some words following which Papun took out a knife and stabbed Patra several times. Patra died on the spot while Papun was overpowered by the others and beaten up before being handed over to police. At Angul, a house painter Azad Hussain was also stabbed by one Mantu Samantray. Hussains fault was intervening to end a quarrel between Mantu and one Saroj Bengra in the morning. After the Holi celebrations ended, Mantu went to Hussains house and started abusing him. As the latter rushed out, Mantu pulled out a sharp weapon and stabbed him. While Hussain succumbed to his injuries, Mantu has been arrested and forwarded to court.
Eight public varsities of Odisha not in NAAC accreditation list yet
BHUBANESWAR: Even as the state plans to implement NEP-2020 in higher education soon, eight of its public universities are yet to join the UGCs accreditation cycle. While the list has names of universities that were set up by the former BJD government in the last seven years, it also includes Shree Jagannath Sanskrit University which was established in 1981. Higher Education minister Suryabanshi Suraj had recently informed the Assembly that eight of the 17 public universities have either not been accredited even once or renewed their accreditation, which includes the four-decade-old Sanskrit university. According to official reports, the Sanskrit university is managing its academics with just about 20 faculty members against the sanctioned 45 posts. Due to this, the existing faculty members are forced to juggle teaching and administrative work, leading to examination delays. The other universities that havent been accredited even once include Maa Manikeswari, Rajendra, Vikram Dev, Dharanidhar, MS Law and Odia universities. While Odia University was opened two years back, most of these institutions were upgraded to universities in the last five years and continue to grapple with severe shortage of teaching staff. Utkal, Berhampur, Sambalpur, Fakir Mohan, Ravenshaw and Maharaja Sriram Bhanja Deo universities got their existing NAAC grades upgraded for the second cycle in the last two years. Rama Devi and Odisha State Open universities were accredited for the first time last year. Gangadhar Meher university is yet to renew its accreditation. A higher official of the department said under the new system, the UGC will implement an evaluation process to assess the higher education institutions on the basis of NEP implementation. The accreditation becomes all the more necessary because the NAAC scores obtained during the accreditation process will be mandatory for making the institutions eligible for several privileges and entitlements, he added.
Two arrested for setting tenants belongings on fire in Odisha
BERHAMPUR: Baidyanathpur police on Thursday arrested a woman and her daughter for allegedly setting afire the belongings of their tenant in Khodasingi area of Berhampur. The accused are Jyotirani Sahu and her daughter Mousumi Sahu. Police said the duo had rented their house to one Aswini Samantasinghar of Puri. Samantasinghar paid them two months rent as advance along with one months rent and moved into the house three months ago. However, he failed to pay the rent for the last two months following which Jyotirani asked him to vacate her premises last week. When he requested her to return his remaining advance amount, she allegedly refused. In the meantime, Samantasinghar had to go to Puri for an emergency. On returning to Berhampur on Wednesday, he found his room locked. When he asked Jyotirani to unlock it, she reportedly did not agree. Subsequently, Samantasinghar lodged a complaint with Baidyanathpur police. Acting on the complaint, police asked the accused to open the lock and allow Samantasinghar to take his belongings. However, the mother-daughter duo did not respond. On Thursday, police reached Jyotiranis house with a magistrate and broke open the lock. To their surprise, all the belongings of Samantasinghar were missing. Police later searched the area and found partially-burnt documents and clothes at the back of the house. Police verified the CCTV footage which confirmed that Jyotirani and Mousumi had removed Samantasinghars belongings from the house and set those on fire. The accused duo was arrested and produced in court.
Girl ends life over online game loss in Odisha
BERHAMPUR: A 16-year-old girl from Rayagada district died by suicide on Thursday after reportedly not receiving Rs 4 lakh in winnings from an online gaming platform. The victim, a class X student of Ganapatiguda village within Ramanaguda police limits, allegedly hanged herself in the bathroom of her house. Police sources said the girl used to live with her grandmother as her father had died and mother abandoned her. She recently took the Class X board examinations. According to the complaint lodged by her family, the girl was addicted to online games, often winning and losing money. Recently, a family member overheard her telling someone over phone that she had won `4 lakh by playing the games. She even threatened to take the extreme step if the gaming platform failed to pay her the amount. On basis of the complaint, Ramanaguda police registered a case and reached the girls house with a forensic team for investigation. The deceaseds body was sent for postmortem and further investigation is underway, police said.
Water crisis in Berhampur, MLA conducts emergency meeting
Lucky escape for 25 students as tractor rams into school bus in Odisha
BERHAMPUR: At least 25 students had a lucky escape after a speeding tractor hit their school bus at Tiniamba chowk within Digapahandi police limits in Ganjam district on Wednesday. Police sources said the mini bus carrying students of Gyanashree public school at Digapahandi town was on way to Kedarpur from Gokarnapur. Near Tiniamba chowk, a boulder-laden tractor rammed into the mini bus and turned turtle. The impact of the collision was so severe that the front portion of the bus was badly mangled. The bus driver, Samir Rana (25), suffered grievous injuries and was trapped in his seat. Following the mishap, the tractor driver fled the scene. Locals rescued the students from the bus. On being informed, parents and the staff of the private school rushed to the spot. Later, police along with fire services personnel rescued driver Samir by cutting the mangled metal sheets of the bus. The driver was initially taken to Digapahandi hospital for treatment. He was later shifted to MKCG Medical College and Hospital at Berhampur as his condition was critical. Police registered a case and seized both the vehicles involved in the accident. A manhunt has been launched to nab the absconding tractor driver and further investigation is underway.
Odisha woman kills husband after fight over illicit affair, held
BERHAMPUR: Gajapati police on Wednesday arrested a 23-year-old woman on the charge of murdering her husband whose decomposed body was recovered from a locked house at Nagarampalli in Paralakhemundi four days back. Gajapati SP Jatindra Kumar Panda said the accused Haari Meleka was nabbed from a village near Paralakhemundi where she was hiding after killing her 26-year-old husband Jagadish Meleka. The couple hailed from Machakhunti village within Gunupur police limits in Rayagada district. Panda said Jagadish and Haari came to Paralakhemundi in search of better employment opportunities three months back. They were staying in a rented house at Nagarampalli street. Jagadish used to drive private vehicles. The couple was quarrelling frequently since the last several days as Jagadish suspected Haari of having an extra-marital affair. On March 5, another fight broke out between the couple and in a fit of rage, Haari attacked Jagadish with a knife and slit his throat. After killing her husband, the woman locked the house, threw the knife in a drain and went to a relatives house in a nearby village, said the SP. The next day, Haari shifted to another village and lived in a house by faking her identity. However, she remained in contact with her family members and relatives over phone. Panda said as Jagadishs wife was missing after recovery of his body, police suspected her role in the murder. During investigation, police traced the accused by tracking her phone. She was taken into custody. During interrogation, the woman confessed to her crime. Subsequently, police recreated the crime scene by taking Haari to the house where she murdered her husband. The accused was arrested and produced in court. Investigation is underway to ascertain if any other person was involved in the murder. Statements of the deceaseds family members have been recorded. Police will question the persons who had given shelter to Haari after she committed the crime, the SP added.
Census puts dolphin number in Odisha at 710, Rajnagar tops list
BHUBANESWAR: The annual population estimation of dolphins and cetaceans 2024-25, carried out by the state wildlife wing earlier this year, has pegged the number of the majestic mammals in Odisha at 710. As per the estimation of the three-day exercise, carried out from January 27 to 29 this year, the state has 188 Irrawadi dolphins, 498 Humpback dolphins, 16 Bottle-nose dolphins and eight Spinner dolphins. Division-wise Mangrove (Wildlife Division), Rajnagar has the highest number of 505 dolphins. The division this year has recorded 470 Humpback dolphins, 22 Irrawadi dolphins, five Bottle-nose dolphins and eight Spinner dolphins. Asias largest brackish water lagoon Chilika has recorded the highest 159 Irrawadi dolphins. It has also recorded 15 Humpback dolphins this year. This apart, 13 Humpback dolphins have been spotted in the marine ecosystem of Berhampur division, while seven Bottle-nose dolphins and seven Irrawadi dolphins have been counted in Puri (Wildlife) and Balasore (Wildlife) divisions respectively. Bhadrak Wildlife Division has also recorded four Bottle-nose dolphins. The overall dolphin population in the state was 743 in 2023-24 estimation, 733 in 2022-23 estimation and 726 during 2021-22. Sources said the marginal plunge in the population this year is primarily due to sighting of 34 fewer Humpback dolphins and 11 fewer Bottle-nose dolphins. Besides, no finless porpoise was sighted in the dolphin and cetaceans enumeration exercise this year. Their number was one in 2023-24 estimation and three in 2021-22 estimation. Forest officials, however, termed the dolphin population in the state as steady with their figures fluctuating in the range of around 720 to 750 for the last four years. The number of Irrawadi dolphins has increased by eight, from 181 last year to 188 this year, they said adding, the figure is also an indication of the healthy marine ecosystem in the state. Our conservation efforts will continue to protect these species and their habitats to secure their sustained growth in the state, a senior wildlife official said.
Indore police bust digital arrest racket; seize data of 20,000 pensioners, scripted fraud speeches
Bhopal: The Indore Police Crime Branch has dismantled two major digital arrest fraud rackets operating in different parts of the country, seizing a massive database containing private details of 20,000 pensioners in Indore. The police also recovered ten diaries with scripted fraud speeches used to extort victims and three registers documenting thousands of SIM cards linked to the scam. One of the rackets was run from a fake call centre in the Nehru Nagar area of Delhi, primarily targeting senior citizens nationwide. The other racket, with key players based in Telangana and Rajasthan, defrauded people across India using the same digital arrest scam. Both rackets had extorted money from two women in Indore in 2024. The Delhi-based operation swindled Rs 46 lakh from a 65-year-old woman by impersonating officials from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in September 2024. Meanwhile, the Telangana-Rajasthan network extorted Rs 12.10 lakh from a young professional in Indore in May 2024. Last year, in connection with the Rs 46 lakh fraud, the Indore police arrested a father-son duo from Kannauj, Uttar Pradesh. They ran madrasas and allowed the fraudsters to use their bank accounts to stash the extorted money in exchange for a 50 per cent commission. Their interrogation led police to the fake call centre in Delhis Nehru Nagar. Under digital arrest, Berhampur varsity V-C loses Rs 14 lakh On Friday, Indore police raided the call centre, operating from a flat, and arrested 22-year-old employee Ritik Kumar Jatav. Investigations revealed that the racket was managed by a couple, with the husband from Uttar Pradesh and the wife from South India. They had recruited young fraudsters from UP, Delhi, and South India, specifically targeting senior citizens in Hindi-speaking and South Indian states. A dark room in the flat functioned as the nerve centre of the cyber fraud operation, which had been active since 2019. The group specialised in IMEI cloning and used thousands of SIM cards from select mobile networks. Ongoing investigations in the case so far have revealed that the racket operators particularly targeted senior citizens (pensioners) across the country. A massive data bank containing private information of lakhs of senior citizens, including 20,000 elderly pensioners in Indore, has been seized by our team that raided the fake call centre operating from the dark room in Delhi, said Additional DCP (Crime) Rajesh Dandotiya. He added, Were now working on tracking and arresting the couple who ran the call centre from multiple locations. These sites also functioned as studios where they shot videos of men and women posing as government officials to extort money through digital arrest scams. Cyberabad cybercrime police arrest three for Rs 1.38 crore digital arrest fraud In the Rs 12.10 lakh fraud case, which targeted a young professional in Indore, police had earlier arrested two menone from Jhalawar, Rajasthan, and another from Cyberabad, Telangana. Further investigation led to the arrest of the rackets key player, 39-year-old Venkat Nagarjun Reddy, from Chennai Airport just before he attempted to flee to Dubai. Interrogation revealed that Reddy and his accomplices, guided by handlers in Dubai, had committed multiple cyber frauds not only in Madhya Pradesh but also in Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh. He was already out on bail in at least three cyber fraud cases in Telangana. Most of the stolen funds were laundered through bank accounts linked to a company named BVN Enterprises. Police believe the absconding couple from the Delhi call centre might be controlled by operatives in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, where the bulk of the fraud money was ultimately routed.
Vice-Chancellor of Berhampur University in Odisha defrauded 14 lakh through digital arrest
The callers claimed to be members of a Supreme Court-monitored investigation team and asserted that the Aadhaar and bank accounts of the Berhampur University V-C were linked to one of the transactions
5.1 magnitude earthquake recorded in Bay of Bengal near Puri
KOLKATA: An earthquake of magnitude 5.1 was recorded on Tuesday morning near Puri in Odisha, officials said. The quake occurred around 6.10 am at a depth of 91 km in the Bay of Bengal, they said. The tremor was recorded at latitude 19.52 N and longitude 88.55 E, an IMD official said. There was no report of any loss of properties or casualty so far, a senior official of the Odisha revenue department said, adding that the impact of the earthquake was egligible as its centre was in the Bay of Bengal. The tremor was felt in Paradip, Puri, Berhampur and some other places in Odisha, he added. EQ of M: 5.1, On: 25/02/2025 06:10:25 IST, Lat: 19.52 N, Long: 88.55 E, Depth: 91 Km, Location: Bay of Bengal. For more information Download the BhooKamp App https://t.co/5gCOtjdtw0 @DrJitendraSingh @OfficeOfDrJS @Ravi_MoES @Dr_Mishra1966 @ndmaindia pic.twitter.com/J6q53lzNd1 National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) February 25, 2025
Four migrant workers from Odisha stranded in Oman return home
Four migrant workers from Ganjam district, Odisha, returned home safely on Friday, February 21, after being stranded in Oman without receiving their salaries. The workers, who had been working as plumbers in Oman, arrived in Mumbai on an Air India Express flight from Muscat at 4 AM on Thursday, February 20. They then reached Berhampur 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 .
Senior citizen among 2 held in ganja case at Secunderabad railway station
Hyderabad: Secunderabad Government Railway Police and Railway Protection Force (RPF) organized surprise checking against drug peddlers on platforms and trains at Secunderabad Railway Station, and apprehended two persons including a senior citizen for transporting ganja from Visakhapatnam to Surat via Secunderabad. The arrested have been identified as Mithun Sethi, 33, a labourer in a cloth manufacturing company at Surat and Pandav Naik, 60, a labourer. Both were natives of Odisha. Rabindra Dakua of Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh was absconding, according to police. While Mithun returned to his native village for his wifes delivery, Naik was unable to speak properly as he was mentally disturbed by family issues, as none of his sons take care of him. As he came to know about the problems of Mithun and Nail, Rabindra lured them saying that he had eight kg ganja in three packets and assured them he would pay Rs.5,000 each, if they transported it to Surat, where persons known to him would collect it. On the same day, Mithun and Naik collected packets from Rabindra and went to Berhampur where they purchased general tickets and boarded a general coach of Konark Express to reach Dadar. They planned to continue their journey to Surat by another train. They concealed the ganja bags under their seats and continued their journey. When the train reached Secunderabad railway station, the police apprehended them while moving under suspicious manner and seized 8.595 kg of dry ganja worth Rs.2.14 lakh and a mobile phone and two journey tickets from the possession of arrested persons.
Tata Power and OREDA Join Forces to Boost Rooftop Solar Adoption in Odisha
Bhubaneswar: Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited (TPREL), a subsidiary of Tata Power and a key player in Indias renewable energy sector, has partnered with the Odisha Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited (OREDA) to accelerate the adoption of rooftop solar systems in Odisha under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Yojana (PMSGY). The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Shri Saidutta Biplab Keshari Pradhan, CEO of OREDA, and Dr. Praveer Sinha, CEO & MD of Tata Power, in the presence of Odishas Deputy Chief Minister K.V. Singh Deo and Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja. This initiative aims to expand Odishas renewable energy footprint by promoting accessible and affordable solar energy solutions, implemented through Tata Powers four DISCOMs in the state. The program focuses on increasing public awareness and streamlining solar adoption for residential consumers. Speaking on the collaboration, Dr. Praveer Sinha said, This partnership underscores Tata Power's commitment to Odishas development and the states renewable energy goals. We are proud to support the PM Surya Ghar Yojana and work with the state government to mainstream solar power. TPREL, identified as a preferred partner by OREDA, will ensure the provision of reliable and efficient solar solutions with lifetime care. As part of the initiative, awareness drives will be conducted at high-visibility locations such as airports, malls, and railway stations. The company will also develop educational materials on renewable energy, train rooftop installation personnel, and engage with local communities to foster technical expertise. OREDA CEO Shri Pradhan highlighted the states vast solar energy potential, stating, Our partnership with Tata Power is a crucial step in harnessing Odishas solar resources to meet the states energy demands sustainably. Together, we aim to empower consumers and accelerate renewable energy adoption. Odisha, which offers the highest solar subsidies in India, is set to lead the solar revolution, significantly reducing financial barriers for consumers. The initial rollout of the initiative will focus on key cities, including Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri, Paradip, Berhampur, Sambalpur, Balasore, and Rourkela, with plans to expand statewide. OREDA and Tata Power will jointly oversee public awareness campaigns, guide government agencies, and conduct regular reviews to ensure the programs success, marking a significant step toward a sustainable energy future for Odisha.
Odisha Expands Bus Fleet for Maha Kumbh Mela Pilgrims with Four New Buses to Prayagraj
Bhubaneswar: To accommodate the growing number of devotees traveling to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh Mela, the Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) has added four more buses to its fleet, a source from OSRTC confirmed on Wednesday. The new services, which began two days ago, connect various parts of Odisha to Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh. Bus travel, often more affordable than trains or flights, has become increasingly popular, and OSRTC is also planning to extend services to other pilgrimage destinations like Ayodhya. This expansion follows the launch of new bus services on January 13, designed to cater to the needs of pilgrims heading to key religious sites for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025. These buses link Odisha with prominent pilgrimage destinations across the country. As part of the initiative, OSRTC buses are transporting devotees from four major cities in OdishaBhubaneswar, Berhampur, Bhawanipatna, and Sambalpurdirectly to Prayagraj. The special services will run until February 26, offering comfortable travel options for the pilgrims. We are committed to continuing these pilgrimage bus services in the future, said transport minister Bibhuti Jena. Additional Secretary of the Transport Department, Laxmikanta Sethi, also mentioned, We are in discussions with senior officials to secure permits for new buses to Varanasi, Prayagraj, and Ayodhya. For now, two sets of new buses will operate from four locations.
TPSODL has installed a 100KW rooftop solar plant at its corporate office in Berhampur in Odishas Ganjam district
Two Women Killed After Falling From Train in Odisha's Ganjam
Bhubaneswar: A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded at Surla Road railway station in Odisha's Ganjam district on Sunday, as two women lost their lives after falling from a moving train. The victims, identified as Parvati Gouda and Jhunu Gouda, were residents of Jagannathpur village in the Chikiti block of Ganjam district. Both worked as cooks (pachikas) at a local school in their village. According to reports, the two women were traveling to Bhubaneswar to participate in a rally organised by the Pachika Sangha. During their journey, they attempted to board the Palasa-Cuttack DMU train at Surla Road railway station. Tragically, one of them slipped while trying to board the train during its brief halt. In a desperate effort to rescue her, the other woman also lost her footing. Both women fell onto the tracks and were fatally struck by the moving train. Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel quickly arrived at the scene and recovered the bodies. An investigation has been launched to determine the exact circumstances leading to the accident. The incident has cast a shadow of grief over Jagannathpur village, with locals expressing deep sorrow at the loss of two well-known community members. This tragic event once again highlights the critical need for enhanced safety awareness at railway stations. Despite repeated advisories from railway authorities warning passengers against boarding or disembarking from moving trains, such incidents continue to claim lives, said CB Singh, a local resident. Earlier this year, another incident occurred near Rairakhol in Odisha, when a young boy from Berhampur accidentally slipped from the Durg-Puri train while traveling with his family from Raipur to Bhubaneswar. The boy fell off the train at night and was stranded in a forested area until he was rescued by RPF personnel the following morning. Fortunately, he survived the ordeal and received medical attention at a nearby hospital.
Over 59,000 victims of online trading fraud in Odisha in six years: CM Mohan Majhi
Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi revealed on Monday that over 59,000 people in the state have fallen prey to online trading fraud in the past six years. He shared these figures in a written statement presented during the State Legislative Assembly session. Between 2019 and November 2024, the state registered 769 cases of online trading scams, affecting 59,437 individuals. The number of reported cases peaked in 2023 and 2024, with 190 cases impacting 18,994 victims in 2023 and 472 cases defrauding 40,270 people in 2024 alone. The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Odisha Police also reported significant cases, with four online trading fraud incidents in 2023 involving 18,804 victims and three more in 2024 affecting 40,219 individuals. To combat the surge in cybercrime, the state launched a dedicated cybercrime unit under the Crime Branch in Bhubaneswar on September 5, 2023. The unit specialises in investigating identity theft, hacking, phishing, and financial frauds such as ATM and online banking scams. Majhi also highlighted the states first cyber police station, established in 2004 and later moved to Cuttack in 2006. Despite handling fraud cases involving amounts over Rs 25 lakh, the station still operates without a fully sanctioned staff. In a broader effort to combat cybercrime, Odisha inaugurated 11 new cybercrime police stations and upgraded three more in Berhampur, Rourkela, and Sambalpur in 2021. Additionally, all district police headquarters now have cybercrime cells. Other initiatives include a cyber help desk, a 1930 cybercrime hotline, and specialised units focusing on online abuse, cyber forensics, social media monitoring, and digital fraud prevention. We are committed to enhancing our cybercrime response and safeguarding citizens from emerging digital threats, Majhi asserted.
Actor playing demon in Ramayana kills pig on stage, eats meat in Odisha
Bhubaneswar/Berhampur: A 45-year-old theatre actor playing the role of a demon in Ramayana was arrested after he ripped the stomach of a live pig on stage and ate its meat in Odisha's Ganjam district, police said. The incident sparked a statewide outrage and was condemned in the assembly on Monday. Besides the actor, identified as Bimbadhar Gouda, one of the organisers of the play that took place in Ralab village in Hinjili police station area on November 24 was also arrested for cruelty to animals and violation of the Wildlife Protection Act. Ruling BJP members Babu Singh and Sanatan Bijuli strongly condemned the incident in the assembly. Action was taken against the duo after videos of the incident went viral on social media, with animal rights activists also condemning it and calling for strong action against the accused. We are also looking for THE persons who displayed snakes in the theatre. They will also be arrested soon, Berhampur Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Sunny Khokar said. He, however, did not disclose the name of the arrested organiser. The state government, in a guideline issued in August last year, prohibited the public display of snakes, including by certified snake handlers. We have registered a case against the theatre actor who killed the pig and ate its meat in the theatre, and arrested him, said Hinjili police station inspector-in-charge Srinibas Sethy said. To attract the audience, the theatre group displayed snakes while a demon ripped the stomach of a live pig with a knife, which was tied to the ceiling of the stage and ate some of the organs in full public view, he said. A group of villagers organised the theatre on the occasion of Kanjianal Yatra.
