Odisha Govt. Cracks Down on Illegal Liquor Sales
Bhubaneshwar: Odisha's excise minister Prithiviraj Harichandan on Saturday announced strict measures to curb illegal liquor sales and ensure public safety during New Year celebrations. Addressing the media persons in Bhubaneshwar, he emphasised that violations of excise laws and any disruptive activities under the influence of alcohol will attract stern action. The excise department is prioritising two key areas preventing public disturbances caused by intoxicated individuals and cracking down on the sale and distribution of illegal liquor to check illegal liquor sales. With the New Year festivities and Zero Night celebrations approaching, the authorities have intensified preparations, including heightened vigilance and enforcement. Commissionerate Police in Bhubaneshwar has also ramped up checks to maintain law and order during the celebrations. The minister's warning underscores the government's commitment to ensuring a safe and disciplined environment for all revelers. Our government has always stood for containing illegal liquor sales that often lead to disastrous incidents, said BJP state unit spokesperson B.N. Tripathy.
Patient Found Hanging in Orthopedic Ward of AIIMS Bhubaneswar
BHUBANESHWAR: The body of a 70-year-old patient was discovered under mysterious circumstances in the orthopedic ward of AIIMS Bhubaneswar on Monday night. The patient, identified as Dilip Kumar Sahu from Atalapur village in Jajpur district, was reportedly found hanging from the ceiling fan above his hospital bed. Sahu had been admitted to the orthopedic ward for treatment but was suspected to have taken the drastic step at midnight. The exact circumstances leading to the incident remain unclear, raising questions about patient monitoring and safety protocols within the hospital. Notably, the ward housed 30 patients at the time of the incident, along with 10 AIIMS staff members on duty. Despite the presence of so many individuals, the incident apparently went unnoticed, prompting concerns and criticism about the hospitals vigilance and security measures. The local police seized the body and sent it for a post-mortem examination. While they have refrained from making any official statements regarding the cause of death, investigations are ongoing. Authorities are currently interrogating the deceaseds daughter, nearby patients, and hospital staff to piece together the sequence of events leading up to the incident. Meanwhile, AIIMS Bhubaneswar authorities stated that the definitive cause of death will only be known after the autopsy report is released. They also expressed their condolences to the family and assured full cooperation with the investigation. Further updates on the investigation and the findings of the post-mortem report are awaited as the police continue their probe.
Singapore country partner for 'Utkarsh Odisha: Make-in-Odisha Conclave 2025' in January
BHUBANESHWAR: Singapore will be the first country partner for 'Utkarsh Odisha: Make-in-Odisha Conclave 2025, ' which is scheduled to be held on January 28 and 29 next year. High Commissioner of Singapore to India Simon Wong announced this during a meeting with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday. He informed that Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam will visit Odisha during his India tour in January. Odisha is the only state Singapore President chose to visit as he sees the huge opportunity for strengthening business partnership with the state along with the existing cultural ties. The focus will be on the state's potential in petrochemicals, green energy and skills, Wong said. Singapore and India, which enjoy deep historical, cultural and economic ties, are celebrating 60 years of diplomatic relationship. The bilateral relationship has now evolved into a strategic partnership encompassing areas like trade, defence, technology and cultural exchange. Singapore is one of the largest sources of FDI for India, which too has a strong presence in the island country through its companies in IT, banking and manufacturing. With shared values of democracy, innovation and sustainable development, both nations are keen to strengthen ties for mutual growth and regional stability. Tharman is visiting India next month to commemorate this bilateral tie. Besides, during his Singapore visit last month, Majhi had requested the Singapore Government to arrange a visit of the Singapore President to Odisha too. Accepting the invitation, the President has decided to come to Odisha during his India visit. Welcoming the High Commissioner and his team, the chief minister thanked the Singapore President for accepting the invitation. He said there is tremendous potential for collaboration between Singapore and Odisha. The relationship is now poised for the next level in various sectors such as petrochemicals, urban planning, tourism, renewable energy and skill development, Majhi said. The discussion focused on ways to further strengthen partnership in areas like new energy, IT, petrochemical complex, development of industrial parks, skill development in IT, tourism and cultural exchange. Apart from Singapore, the Odisha government has invited several other countries, including Japan and Germany to be the country partner for the upcoming mega investment summit. At least 34 countries have been invited to participate in the two-day event. Along with Wong, deputy High Commissioner at New Delhi Alice Cheng and other members also met the CM. Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, additional chief secretaries Nikunja Bihari Dhal and Satyabrata Sahu and principal secretary of Electronics and IT Vishal Dev were present.
Paradip Port Hits 100 MMT Cargo Milestone for Eighth Consecutive Year
BHUBANESHWAR: Paradip Port Authority (PPA), India's premier major port, has once again demonstrated its prowess by achieving an extraordinary milestone in cargo handling. On Tuesday, the port recorded a remarkable 100.13 MMT (million metric tonnes) of cargo throughput for the eighth consecutive year, reaffirming its position as a leader in the maritime sector. This year, the port accomplished the feat nine days earlier than the previous fiscal year, achieving the coveted 100 MMT mark in just 253 days compared to 262 days in FY 2022-23. This achievement is the fastest in the history of Indian major ports, accomplished despite significant challenges such as reduced global demand for iron ore exports and thermal coal. PPA is now on track to set an all-time high record of handling 150 MMT of cargo in the current fiscal year. The achievement is credited to the port's focus on operational excellence and strategic system improvements. Noteworthy growth was observed across several cargo categories: According to the PPA authorities, iron ore and pellet exports rose by 2.23 per cent year-on-year. Similarly, coastal thermal coal, accounting for over 30 per cent of the total cargo volume, grew by 3.57 per cent. Containerized cargo volume surged by an impressive 123.09 per cent and gypsum and flux handling increased by 26.55 per cent. These figures solidify Paradip Port's emergence as a leading coastal shipping hub in India, catering to diverse industries and fostering economic growth. Chairman of PPA, P.L. Haranadh attributed the success to the visionary leadership and support of Union minister for ports, shipping, and waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal. Under his guidance and inspiration, PPA has achieved incredible milestones, said Haranadh. He also expressed gratitude to the dedicated workforce, user industries, trade unions, and stevedores for their unwavering contributions. PPA deputy chairman Nilabhra Dasgupta, advisor A.K. Bose, and traffic manager G. Edison joined Haranadh in celebrating this remarkable achievement.
CHENNAI: In paintings craftfully curated with a lot of thought, objects like a truck becomes a symbol of resilience, inequality, and hope. Each stroke narrates a story: the spirit of Andhra Pradesh citizens during Amaravatis contentious capital change, the enduring scars of Jallianwala Baghs bullet-riddled walls, the weighty aspirations tied to the new Parliament and Ram Mandir, and the jubilant streets of Chennai after the Super Kings IPL triumph in 2021. Through this kaleidoscope of human experiences, the exhibition asks a profound question: What could a single brushstroke possibly achieve? For ceramic artist and Lalit Kala Akademi regional secretary Sovan Kumar, the answer lies in preserving fleeting moments of change. I record whats happening today and turn it into art with a social message, he explains, his works freezing history on canvas while challenging societal norms. His solo art show, Haunting Cargoes, not only tries to appeal to the eye in describing reality but goes one step further and provokes thoughts in individuals irrespective of their understanding of art. The exhibition encourages viewers to interact with the living world in ways by showcasing bold themes and provocative images. Roads leading to canvas The main theme of this art exhibition is to capture globalisation. Every sector is developing and making connections, not only in India but in other countries as well. This growth is similar to trucks that have high speed and travel through connecting roads, the artiste explains. Trucks are usually seen as carriers of goods and essentials but in Sovans paintings, they also carry the weight of powerful visuals the fight against inequality, the struggles of marginalised communities, and raising awareness about social issues. Of the 20-odd paintings, Sovans favourite is the May First on Marina Beach. I first came to Chennai when I was 19 years old. The first place I visited during this trip was Marina Beach and the first statue that grabbed my attention was the Labour Statue (Triumph of Labour). I wanted to show my journey here in the city through the painting. How it has moved with times: earlier, there was smaller number of shops on the beach, but now, we have shops selling all kinds of food and entertainment, he shares. At that point in his life, he was pursuing his graduation in fine arts from BK College of Arts and Crafts, Bhubaneshwar. Later, he specialised in ceramics art during his post-graduation course at Banaras Hindu University. Ceramics was a new medium in India then. We had industrial ceramics but not studio ceramics. In order to study the medium further, I received a scholarship from Beijing, China in 1998, adds Sovan. I strengthened my skills and participated in exhibitions throughout the world. Once when I was in the US, in 2000, an art admirer suggested I teach this art in India and share my knowledge, he says. To spread the skills to the youth in our country, Sovan started conducting shows and invited potters to his home in Bhubaneshwar to learn the art. This was also the time when the term globalisation was popular and Sovan started his Truck series. Speeding wheels and spreading messages When troll trucks came to India, it marked the beginning of globalisation. This change awakened many and they caught up with the pace, but the others who could not run along in the race were left behind, Sovan points out. These painted trucks in the exhibition are not just vehicles but a moving canvas that puts social issues at the forefront. In one of his ceramic sculptures at the exhibition, Bed for the Bedless, Sovan fashioned a bed-like arrangement wherein 50 people, residing on the platforms, sleep. He says, It is the 21st century and people are still on the roads and have never slept on a bed. On the brighter side, such people sleep in peace and then there are others who even on a foam mattress, constantly twist and turn, trying to get through the night. In addition to painting and ceramic-based art, Sovan has placed wood-based miniatures on the display. A truck carries colourful kudams (water pots) titled War for Water followed by wooden logs Loaded Truck Wood and one empty truck, Wooden Truck, in the end. We struggle to meet our water needs every day. I faced the same problem and that inspired me to create this work, says Sourav. He adds, I love interacting with the audience, hearing their ideas and incorporating them into my artwork. That is why the last one is empty. I want the visitors to suggest and give me feedback. What happens when the presented art leaves the gallery and is discussed in an open forum? In the words of Sovan, These art exhibitions leading to talks are a step taken by people towards the changes they want to see in the country. The shift could be as simple as disposing of wet and dry waste separately. You do that a day and see the happiness on the face of the garbage collector. Be the change you want to see.
Security agencies should focus on emerging security challenges along eastern border: Shah
BHUBANESHWAR, Nov 29 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said security agencies should focus on emerging security challenges along the eastern border, immigration and trends in urban policing. Inaugurating the annual DGPs/IGPs conference here, which will discuss a host of emerging national security challenges, including counter-terrorism and left-wing extremism, Shah also congratulated the police leadership for the smooth conduct of the 2024 general elections and the seamless rollout of the three new criminal laws. The focus should be [] The post Security agencies should focus on emerging security challenges along eastern border: Shah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
24 naval ships and 40 aircraft to participate in Indian Navy's Op Demo in Puri, Odisha
BHUBANESHWAR: The Indian Navy's 'Operational Demonstration' will take place at Blue Flag Beach in Puri on the occasion of Navy Day--December 4--to recognise the achievements and role of the Indian Navy in safeguarding the country. At least 24 warships and 40 aircraft including helicopters and fighter jets will demonstrate the Navy's maritime capabilities and operational strength through aerial maneuvers and other exercises. The Op Demo will highlight the Navy's diverse abilities and promote maritime awareness amongst the public in Odisha. President Droupadi Murmu will attend the event, which will be organised between 4 pm and 6.30 pm and conclude with a spectacular laser show. The Ministry of Defence said the Op Demo will be held against the backdrop of the pristine Blue Flag Beach and it will symbolise the connection between the Indian Navy and the maritime legacy of Odisha. The Indian Navy is working closely with the Odisha Government and local authorities to ensure the smooth execution of the event. Arrangements will be made to accommodate local spectators and tourists in a bid to offer everyone a chance to witness the demonstration from the beach, it said. Sources said the Indian Navy has invited about 7,500 guests to attend the event and sitting arrangements will be made for them. While addressing the mediapersons on Monday, DGP YB Khurania informed the full-dress rehearsals for the Op Demo will be held on December 2 and 3. At least 40 sectors will be set up at the Blue Flag beach for the visitors where they can witness the capabilities of the Indian Navy's naval ships and aircraft, said Khurania. Odisha Police have made tight security arrangements and about 80 platoons of police force along with 300 officers will be deployed in Puri to ensure the event passes off smoothly. The entire town will be under CCTV surveillance to maintain law and order. Police will also keep a close watch on the vehicular movement between Bhubaneswar and Puri on December 4 to make certain there are no traffic snarls on the highway.
Post-Deepavali air quality hits new low in eastern Indias State capitals
The national capitals AQI was at 339 after Deepavali; Kolkata, Ranchi, and Bhubaneshwar were not far behind
Odisha man allegedly dies by suicide after online betting loss
BHUBANESHWAR: A 31-year-old man from Odishas Kendrapara district allegedly died by suicide after incurring substantial financial losses in online betting. The man, identified as Achyutananda Sahoo from Oradi Lankapada village, reportedly took the extreme step by jumping in front of a moving train near Jharsuguda railway station. Achyutananda was employed as a head cashier at a hotel in Jharsuguda town. Sources indicate he had recently informed his mother that he had taken a personal loan of approximately Rs 25 lakh, which he was struggling to repay. He (Achyutananda) arrived at the hotel around 7:00 a.m. and completed his duties as usual, leaving for his room in the staff quarters at about 4:00 p.m. I spoke with him in the morning, and he didnt show any signs of stress, said Pradipta Kumar Sahu, the hotel manager. Later, around 9:30 p.m., I received a call from one of his family members informing me about a message he had sent them. I immediately reported the matter to the Jharsuguda Town police station and requested their help in locating him. According to Santosh Mirdha, the Inspector-In-Charge (IIC) of the Government Railway Police (GRP), preliminary investigation and text messages suggest that Achyutanandas death was likely linked to financial distress caused by online betting losses. However, the exact cause will be confirmed once the post-mortem report is available, he added.
Odisha, West Bengal ramp up precautionary measures as cyclone 'Dana' nears; evacuate lakhs
BHUBANESHWAR: Odisha Chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday said that the state government has decided to evacuate 3.62 lakh persons from 1653 villages of 38 blocks and 26 wards of nine urban local bodies of 11 districts to safer places due to the cyclonic storm Dana. The CM reviewed the preparedness for the cyclone with the collectors of Ganjam, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Bhadrak, Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Cuttack, Khurda and Jajpur districts. The chief minister told mediapersons that so far three lakh persons from low-lying areas of these districts have been shifted to the nearest cyclone shelters. All the identified persons will be shifted to cyclone shelters within the next few hours, he added. Similarly, 2338 pregnant women from vulnerable places have also been shifted to the nearest hospitals and other safe places. The chief minister has asked the district collectors to expedite the evacuation process. Evacuated people from the vulnerable areas have been accommodated in 7285 shelters including 842 cyclone shelters and 6443 temporary shelters opened by the government. He directed the district collectors to ensure that people in the cyclone shelters were provided cooked food regularly. Police would be deployed in cyclone shelters for the security of the people. Reviewing the preparedness, the chief minister asked the district collectors to ensure 100 per cent evacuation, zero casualties, uninterrupted power supply to hospitals, and sufficient stock of kerosene and diesel in the affected areas. He also emphasised on sanitation in the cyclone shelters. He reiterated that care should also be taken to ensure clean toilets in the cyclone shelters. The chief minister also reviewed the preparedness for the restoration of power and drinking water supply after the cyclone. He said that additional teams should be deployed for the repair of power transformers after the cyclone to restore electricity. The government has deployed 19 NDRF, 51 ODRAF and 220 fire service teams for relief and rescue operations in the 11 districts. Besides, 157 platoon police, 92 medical and 58 veterinary teams have been deployed in the vulnerable areas. Cyclone 'Dana' to make landfall tonight; Odisha, Bengal receive heavy rainfall | UPDATES West Bengal initiates evacuation process West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said that the administration identified over 3.5 lakh people to be evacuated from low-lying areas of the state in the wake of the approaching cyclone Dana. Urging people to take precautionary measures and cooperate with the administration and the police, she said 2,43,374 people have taken shelter in camps. The Bengal CM said that she would be staying the entire Thursday night at the state secretariat and personally monitor the situation. For the purpose of evacuation from low-lying areas, we have identified 3,56,941 people, she told reporters at the state secretariat. The chief secretary and home secretary would also be monitoring the situation from their respective residences and rejoin her on Friday morning. Banerjee also urged the people not to spread rumours and create panic in this connection. She said that a 24X7 helpline (2214 3526) and some associated phone numbers have been made functional for monitoring and sharing information. Security and NDRF personnel discuss precauionary measures ahead of the landfall of Cyclone 'Dana'. The Bengal CM said that the educational institutions were closed down to ensure the safety of the students. I seek your cooperation. Be alert. If the police or the administration ask you to evacuate a place, please pay heed to their advice. Do not venture into the waters. Fishing is prohibited now, she said. The IMD said that the cyclone is likely to make landfall between Bhitarkanika National Park and Dhamra port in neighbouring Odisha early Friday. The maximum speed during the landfall process is likely to be around 120 kmph. The cyclone is likely to bring heavy rain in Odisha and West Bengal. (With inputs from PTI)
Cyclone Dana LIVE: Odisha, Bengal Brace For Impact As Storm To Make Landfall Today
Cyclone Dana LIVE Updates: Kolkata and Bhubaneshwar airport authorities have decided to suspend flight operations for 15 hours from 6 pm on Thursday owing to the cyclone
East coast braces for cyclone as low pressure strengthens into depression over Bay of Bengal
BHUBANESHWAR/ KOLKATA: A well-marked low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal intensified into a depression on Tuesday morning as it rolled towards the eastern coast with the likelihood of turning into a severe cyclonic storm, the IMD said. In its bulletin, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said the well-marked low-pressure area over the east-central Bay of Bengal moved west-northwestwards, concentrated into a depression and lay centred at 730 km southeast of Paradip in Odisha and 770 km south-southeast of Sagar island in West Bengal around 5.30 am. The depression will further intensify into a cyclonic storm by October 23 and cross north Odisha and southern West Bengal coasts between Puri and Sagar in the early morning hours of October 25 as a severe cyclonic storm with a wind speed of 100-110 kmph, gusting to 120 kmph, it said. While advising fishermen not to venture into the sea from October 23 to 25, the IMD warned that wind speed is likely to reach 60 kilometre per hour (kmph) along and off Odisha-West Bengal coasts and gradually increase thereafter. The storm is likely to bring very heavy rainfall in southern West Bengal districts on October 24 and 25, the IMD said. The weather system will bring heavy to very heavy rainfall with extremely heavy downpours at one or two places in the districts of South 24 Parganas, Paschim Medinipur, Purba Medinipur and Jhargram. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely in Kolkata, Howrah, Hooghly, North 24 Parganas, Purulia and Bankura districts between October 24 and 25. A deep depression is a more intense stage of a low-pressure system and typically precedes the formation of a cyclonic storm, according to the IMD. The Odisha government has cancelled the leaves of all staff from October 23 to 25 in view of the cyclone forecast. In a letter to all the departments, Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) DK Singh asked them to remain prepared to tackle the challenges of the impending calamity.
Severe cyclonic storm 'Dana' to lash Odisha, bring heavy rain; CM Majhi urges tourists to leave Puri
BHUBANESHWAR: The low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal on Monday intensified and is likely to turn into a severe cyclonic storm by October 23 and reach the coasts adjoining Odisha and West Bengal the next day, bringing heavy rain in the two states for three days till Friday, the Met office said. Advising fishermen not to venture into the sea between October 23 and 25, the weathermen warned that wind speed is likely to reach 60 kilometres per hour (kmph) along and off the Odisha-West Bengal coasts from Wednesday and gradually increase to 100-110 kmph, gusting to 120 kmph, from October 24 night till October 25 morning. The India Meteorological Department said, the system is very likely to cross north Odisha and West Bengal coasts between Puri and Sagar Island during the night of October 24 and early morning October 25 as a severe cyclonic storm with a wind speed of 100-110 kmph with gusting 120 kmph. The IMD has issued a red warning (take action) of heavy to very heavy rainfall (7 to 20 cm) with isolated extremely heavy rainfall (more than 20 cm) and thunderstorm with lightning in Puri, Khurda, Ganjam and Jagatsinghpur districts of Odisha on October 24. The state government today announced that schools in 14 districts of Odisha will remain closed for three days in view of impending cyclone Dana. The chools in Ganjam, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Bhadrak, Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Dhenkanal, Jajpur, Angul, Khurda, Nayagarh and Cuttack districts will remain closed from October 23 to 25 as a precautionary measure against the cyclone. #CycloneDana | Schools in 14 districts, likely to be affected by the tropical storm, will remain shut for 3 days from October 23 to 25: #Odisha Govt @NewIndianXpress @santwana99 @Siba_TNIE pic.twitter.com/0zExwZZObP TNIE Odisha (@XpressOdisha) October 21, 2024 President Droupadi Murmu's scheduled three-day visit to Odisha from Wednesday has been postponed in view of the impending cyclone that is likely to hit the state's coast on October 25. Murmu was scheduled to visit Bangriposi, Uparbeda, Rairangpur, Puri and Bhubaneswar during her stay. The Odisha government also urged tourists to leave the coastal pilgrim town of Puri before the cyclone hits the state's coast by October 24 night and October 25 morning. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi directed the officials to ensure 100 per cent evacuation of people from areas likely to be affected by the cyclone. He also directed the officials to stock food, drinking water and medicines in cyclone shelters in adequate quantity. Majhi urged people not to panic as the state government is fully prepared to face the eventuality. Issuing an instruction to officials to remain prepared to restore road communication, telecommunication and electricity supply in vulnerable areas, he said his government has set a 'Zero Casualty' target in the cyclone which has been named Dana. Chief Minister Mohan Majhi says Odisha govt will focus on zero casualty and ensure 100 pc evacuation from the vulnerable places ahead of the approaching cyclone #Cyclone #Odisha #Dana @NewIndianXpress @santwana99 @Siba_TNIE pic.twitter.com/hZklzvUE0n TNIE Odisha (@XpressOdisha) October 21, 2024 Majhi also directed the district collectors of Puri and Jagtsinghpur to ensure that the fishermen return to the shore before the cyclone hits the state's shore. A total of 11 fishermen from the two districts are in the sea. IMD DG Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said in Bhubaneswar that Odisha is likely to be mostly affected as high-speed wind and extremely heavy rainfall will come along with the cyclone. Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said that the state has already moved Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) personnel to the vulnerable areas while the NDRF teams would reach there on Tuesday. This apart, fire service personnel have also been sent to the possible cyclone-affected areas. The rescue and relief teams to remain present at vulnerable areas before the cyclone hits the state, Pujari said. He said that the Centre has also allocated a helicopter to be used in the rescue and relief operations. The chopper will be at the government hangar in the airport here by October 23. Odisha Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja at a video conferencing with the Cabinet Secretary TV Somananthan has apprised the centre about the state's preparedness.
Rising food prices cuts lunch options for poor school kids in India: Poll
A case in point is 8-year old Ranjit Nayak, who lives in Ghugudipada village, 150 kilometres from Bhubaneshwar, the capital city of the eastern Indian state of Odisha
JP Nadda Labels Congress a 'Spokesperson of Urban Naxalism'
BHUBANESHWAR: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national president JP Nadda launched a fierce attack on the Congress on Thursday, labeling the grand old party as a spokesperson of Urban Naxalism and accusing it of encouraging divisive forces in the country. Nadda made these remarks while participating in the Sadasyata Abhiyan, the membership drive of the BJPs Odisha unit. Addressing a gathering of party leaders, workers and intellectuals, Nadda emphasised the BJP's consistent commitment to its ideological roots, contrasting it sharply with Congresss alleged alignment with separatist agendas. In 1952, Bharatiya Jana Sangh made it clear that there cannot be two laws and two heads of the state in one country. Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the legislative skills of Amit Shah, we successfully abrogated Article 370 on August 5, 2019, making Jammu and Kashmir fully a constitutional part of India. Our ideology has remained steadfast, said Nadda. He further highlighted the BJPs inclusive approach, citing the Modi government's guiding principle of Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayasmeaning With Everyones Support, Development, Trust, and Effort. BJPs Vision: Economic Growth and Social Reform Nadda also underscored the governments efforts in tackling social issues such as triple talaq, which was banned despite resistance. Triple talaq is banned in many Islamic countries like Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, yet it persisted in India under the guise of secularism. Prime Minister Modis government ended this injustice, bringing Muslim women into the mainstream. This action is emblematic of our commitment to empowering every citizen, he stated. The BJP president also highlighted the party's economic achievements, pointing to Indias resilience amid global economic downturns. While economies in the US, Europe, Australia, Japan, and China are facing slow growth, Indias growth rate is expected to reach seven per cent. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), India is the only bright spot in the global economy. We have risen to become the fifth largest economy and, in Modis third term, India is on track to become the third largest, Nadda noted. He also spoke of the countrys progress in manufacturing and exports. Ten years ago, 92 per cent of our mobiles were imported; today, 97 per cent are made in India. We have become the third largest exporter of toys and are now a major global player in the automobile market. Our economic policies are not just transforming industries but also building infrastructure, with over Rs 10 lakh crore allocated for national projects, he added. Nadda highlighted the success of Ayushman Bharat, the worlds largest health coverage programme, benefiting 55 crore Indians, which will soon include an additional six crore elderly citizens. He urged the public to join the BJPs mission to make India a developed nation, or Viksit Bharat, by 2047 under Modis leadership. BJP: A Transparent and Ideology-Based Party Nadda presented the BJP as Indias only truly democratic and transparent party, contrasting it with other political organisations. There are over 5,000 political parties in India, but BJP stands out as the only national, democratic, ideology-based party with a mass following. Our membership drives are not mere formalities; they are taken seriously by leaders at all levels, from the Prime Minister to the grassroots workers. He explained the rigorous membership process, highlighting that the partys leadership is not inherited but earned. In the BJP, leaders emerge from the grassroots. After membership drives, we conduct transparent elections from the circle to the national level, ensuring only the most committed individuals rise to the top. This is why in our party, a leaders son does not automatically become a leader; merit and dedication are the criteria. Nadda concluded by emphasising the strength and dedication of BJPs 18 crore members, whose commitment renews every six years. Our systematic approach to membership and leadership renewal sets us apart and ensures that our party remains vibrant, transparent, and dedicated to serving the nation, he said.
Erigaisi Arjun of Hanamkonda Wins Gold in World Chess Olympiad
Warangal :Grand Master Erigaisi Arjun, a Hanamkonda native, played a stellar role for the Indian teamm scoring 10 points in 11 gamesm and won individual gold medal on Board 3 at the 45th World Chess Olympiad at Budapest in Hungary. Arjun, was born on September 3, 2003, is a native of Hanamkonda district and resides at Advocates Colony along with his parents Dr Srinivas Rao and Jyothi and elder sister Keerthana. He studies BSc in data science in a private degree college in the city. Setting himself a goal to become Grand Master before completing his Class 10, Arjun reached his goal by becoming Telangana's first Grand Master in 2018 at the age of 14. Competing for the first time in the World Chess Championship in 2022 at Chennai, Arjun drew the match. Bollam Sampath, who trained Arjun in the initial stages, told Deccan Chronicle that at the age of eight, Dr Srinivas Rao joined Arjun in the Chess Academy. Arjun turned out to be a quick learner who could plan his moves carefully. He participated in chess competitions at Visakhapatnam, Bhubaneshwar and other cities at a very young age, Sampath added. Arjuns father, a resident doctor at Sri Venkateshwara Institute of Medical Science (SWIMS) in Tirupati, told Deccan Chronicle that he was very happy for his sons achievement at the World Chess Competitions. He said after noticing his interest in chess, he first joined him in the local chess academy under Sampath who trained him for one-and-a-half years. Then Arjun was trained by international coaches and Grand Masters and also took online classes. With 2,778 points in the FIDE rating, Arjun is now Indias highest ranked player and may get an opportunity to play in the tournaments where the world top eight chess players would participate in the coming days. Arjun is expected call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday at New Delhi and will leave for Germany and elsewhere to participate in various tournaments, Dr Srinivas Rao added.
Singing Her Heart Out: Nikhita Gandhi on Music, Inspiration, and More
Singer Nikhita Gandhi traded dentistry for a microphone and never looked back. With her soulful voice and infectious energy, she has captured the hearts of music lovers. Deccan Chronicle caught up with this rising star for an exclusive interview. Excerpts. How do you prepare for concerts? Well, two most important thingsOne is I try my hardest to make it to sound check unless the timings are not in the favor of making it in time for the show and also getting in a decent workout on the day of the show. I try to make sure it happens without fail during concerts. How did the audience respond to your setlist at your recent concert at Bhubaneshwar? I did two showsOne was a college show, and then a few days later I did a corporate event. Both were fabulous. Actually, both felt like concerts because they were so well received. I performed Zara Zara, the latest drop that happened with Saregama. And people were singing along and cheering. And I just love that feeling of the audience singing and screaming and just being one with the artist. I think theres no bigger feeling and better feeling. Are you exploring any new genres of entertaining or experimenting with different sounds in your upcoming work? Yes, I am currently working on a duo with Shashwat Singh and we just shot our first music video, which is in the post production process right now. I am very excited to share the music that we are going to be doing through that because its a little different from the mainstream stuff that I have been doing. Looking back, what inspired you to transition from dentistry to music? Do you have any regrets? No regrets.And I think the transition was very organic. Its not like I chose to make a conscious decision to do music. I think it just kept becoming a bigger and bigger part of my life and led me to where I am today. Who are some of your biggest musical influences? How have they shaped your style? Oh, so many influencesright from Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra to Ali Shaker and Boney M. I have grown up listening to these artists on my grandparents LPs. So many influences in Hindustani classical as well, because thats what I have trained in growing up. Right up to all the influences who are my contemporaries, people younger than me and much older than me. So I honestly get motivated by so many people, not necessarily one specific kind of music. How do you stay motivated and focused on your goal? Honestly, I dont focus on the pressures of the music industry. I feel that life has given me this amazing opportunity to pursue music, something I didnt think I would be doing to begin with. So I really think that itself is the biggest motivation for me, that life has taken me in this direction. And thats what really inspires me every day to be more and more dedicated to music. How do you prioritize self-care and maintain your vocal health? I think the best way to maintain vocal health is a good nights sleep. So if there are days where we are traveling back to back and sleep is scarce, its almost like domestic jet lag. I come back and sleep for 10 hours a day. I also sleep whenever I do get the time, because I know how crucial good sleep is. And that obviously extends to vocal health. Its not always easy to eat on time. So I think sleep for me is my number one priority. What role do you think social media plays in an artists career? Social media has become a very important tool in an artists life right now, fortunately or unfortunately. I think the best thing to do is to embrace it and to make the best of it, because theres so much you can do with social media to make your music reach the people. I think its amazing for people who dont have any sort of connect with labels and stuff like that. I think for upcoming musicians, its so amazing that you can directly relate to your audience, connect with your audience. Would you consider exploring acting or other creative avenues beyond music? I absolutely would. I love performing arts. My first love has been dancing. So I think performing and acting, emoting is a big part of my growing up as an artist as well, because I think that being expressive and emoting has been something that I have related to, even more than music. And I would love to explore more of that.
Major booked, fiancee held for fracas at thana
An Army Major and his fiancee faced legal trouble after a confrontation at Bharatpur police station in Bhubaneshwar. They alleged abuse by police when seeking action against hooligans. Police denied mistreatment, claiming the couple was drunk and uncooperative, leading to the womans arrest and damage to property.
Sources have indicated it will be a working day as every birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, but this time he will spend time in three cities.
55 Tigers Lost to Poaching, Electrocution in Odisha
BHUBANESHWAR: Unrelenting poaching and electrocution have accounted for the death of 55 tigers in the past 10 years. While 25 big cats died due to poaching, four were electrocuted state forest, environment and climate change minister Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia in the State Legislative Assembly on Tuesday. Five tigers were killed in accidents and six died due to drowning, he added. The minister said 48 leopards and seven Royal Bengal tigers died in the state in the past ten years. In August, Singhkhuntia had also informed the House that over 2,850 wild animals were poached in Odisha in the last 10 years. As many 2,869 wild animals including tigers, bears, deers and elephants were poached during the last 10 years in Odisha and 6,960 poachers have been arrested, Singhkhuntia had said in the Assembly. Replying to another query, the minister said more than 1,140 people lost their lives in elephant attacks in Odisha in the last 10 years. Responding to a written question by BJP MLA Prashant Jagdev, the minister said, 1,145 people lost their lives in elephant attacks from 2013-14 to 2023-24. Similarly in the last 10 years, as many as 719 elephants have died due to various reasons in the state. At least 41 elephants were poached by hunters or wildlife smugglers in the state, the minister added.
RIR Power Electronics inaugurates new factory at Bhubaneshwar
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Bhubaneshwar (Odisha) [India], August 24: On August 24, 2024, Care Hospitals hosted an exclusive event at Hotel Lemon Tree Premier to discuss the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics in Orthopedics. The event gathered industry leaders, esteemed medical professionals, and patients who have benefitted from cutting-edge AI and robotic-assisted surgeries. The discussions highlighted how these technological advancements are revolutionizing patient care and outcomes in orthopedics.
