The Indian Diaspora Role in Foreign Policy
By Prof. (Dr.) D.K. Giri Over 3000 delegates from 70 countries arrived in Odisha for the celebration of PravasiBharatiya Divas (PBD). This is the 18th edition of PBD taking place on 8th& 9th January in the temple city of Bhubaneshwar, with the theme Diasporas Contribution to a Viksit Bharat. The President of the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago, Christine Carla Kangaloo was the Chief Guest of the event. Dr. DevPragad, the CEO and Co-Founder of the NewsWeek was the guest [] The post The Indian Diaspora Role in Foreign Policy appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
IIM-Sambalpur launches MBA in Business Analytics at its Delhi campus
Bhubaneshwar: IIM-Sambalpur has introduced a full-time MBA programme in Business Analytics at its Delhi campus, a statement said Monday. Candidates with a high CAT percentile and having STEM academic background with one year of relevant experience can apply for admission, it said. IIM-Sambalpur also signed an MoU with the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), Thailand []
Indian diaspora makes outstanding contributions to India and the world: Jaishankar
BHUBANESHWAR, Jan 10 : The Indian diaspora has made remarkable contributions to both India and the world in diverse fields, driven by their immense talent, creativity, dedication, commitment, and perseverance, Union External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said. From holding political offices and leading organizations to excelling in various fields and walks of life, they have left an indelible mark on global society, the External Affairs Minister stated during the valedictory function of the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention held here [] The post Indian diaspora makes outstanding contributions to India and the world: Jaishankar appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
India-Singapore to celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations with series of high-level visits
NEW DELHI: India and Singapore are celebrating their 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year with a series of high-level visits. President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Prime Minister Lawrence Wong will be visiting India. Singapore, often referred to as Indias window to the East, is also one of the largest sources of Foreign Direct Investment for India. President Tharman Shanmugaratnam's upcoming visit to New Delhi and Odisha from January 14 to 18 will mark the first time in the past decade for a Singaporean president to visit India The visit underscores the deepening ties between the two nations, both diplomatically and economically. One of the two pacts on the table is on skilling in the semiconductors sector in Odisha as both sides will embark on a course to step up their economic ties and air connectivity. The pact will help India get support from Singapore in the areas of semi-conductor fundamentals, processes, packaging and testing. The two countries are also looking at increasing the annual investment from existing 12 billion USD to 20 billion USD, diplomatic sources said. Besides meeting President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he is likely to meet External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, Health Minister J P Nadda, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnav and Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development Jayant Chaudhary. He will also travel to Bhubaneshwar and meet Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. He will also visit the Konark temple. India-Singapore relations were upgraded to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit in September 2024. Skill centre projects, supported by both public and private sectors, have been completed in six states: Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Rajasthan, Assam, Odisha, and Telangana.
Cognizant CEO Ravi Kumar pledges to support Odisha for more investments in IT
BHUBANESHWAR: Cognizant CEO Ravi Kumar S on Friday asserted to support the Odisha government for more investments in IT and ITeS sector. Ravi Kumar met Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at Janata Maidan here on the sidelines of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. Both discussed on developing the city campus of Cognizant as the biggest centre in India. The chief minister assured the CEO that the state government would be pleased to allot the required land within the capital city for the development of Cognizant's own facility and provide full cooperation for making it the biggest in the country. During the discussion, Ravi Kumar expressed happiness over the growth of its centre in Bhubaneswar and expressed confidence that it would grow even more rapidly in the next five years. The city centre opened in February last year is spread over a 52,000 sq ft area at Odisha Technology Centre, Acharya Vihar. It has been designed to accommodate around 1,000 of the company's associates in a hybrid work environment. The facility, which enables associates to work in diverse areas, including AI, ML, IoT, digital engineering and robotic automation, among other advanced technologies, is projected to be expanded further to accommodate over 5,000 associates in coming years. Majhi sought the cooperation of the Cognizant CEO for bringing in further investments in the IT/ITeS sector in Odisha. He also congratulated him for all his success, and the 'Pravasi Bhartiya Samman 2025' conferred on him for his exceptional contributions in technology and fostering India's image globally. Ravi Kumar assured that he would provide all support to the endeavours of the state government for the growth of the sector. The Berhampur native had joined Cognizant after a 20-year career in Infosys and he was appointed the global CEO of the USD 19.5 billion company in 2023. Meanwhile, Union Minister for Electronics, IT and Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw has urged Ravi Kumar to open IT centres in tier-II cities. Photo caption - Cognizant CEO Ravi Kumar S in discussion with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi in Bhubaneswar on Friday.
PM Modi Flags Off Pravasi Bharatiya Express, Highlights Peaceful Future: PBD 2025 Updates
Bhubaneswar, Odisha: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, on January 8, 2025. The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, a significant event jointly organized by the central government and the Odisha state government, will continue its celebrations and activities through January 10. PM Modi was warmly welcomed at the Bhubaneswar airport by Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. In his address, he emphasized the importance of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in strengthening ties between India and its diaspora. As part of the event, PM Modi also flagged off the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, further symbolizing the strengthening of ties between the Indian government and its diaspora.The special train will embark on its three-week-long journey from the Nizamuddin railway station in Delhi, marking the beginning of an exciting and enriching experience. Over the course of this journey, the train will visit a variety of destinations across India, each known for its significant cultural, religious, and tourist value. Passengers will have the opportunity to explore renowned pilgrimage sites, historical landmarks, and picturesque destinations, creating a unique travel experience that blends spirituality with the beauty of Indias diverse landscapes. M Modi remarked, Over the years, this event has evolved into a vital platform that plays a crucial role in strengthening the connection between India and its diaspora around the world. He further noted the joyous atmosphere surrounding upcoming festivals like Makar Sankranti and Magh Bihu, which are being celebrated across the country. Highlighting the significance of the occasion, PM Modi reminded attendees that January 9 marked the return of Mahatma Gandhi to India in 1915 after years abroad. This years Pravasi Bharatiya Divas holds special meaning as we gather just after celebrating the birth centenary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose vision greatly influenced this program, he added. During his speech, the Prime Minister shared his belief that the future lies not in conflict but in peace, drawing inspiration from the teachings of Buddha. His message echoed his ongoing commitment to fostering global peace and unity. Jaishankar Engages with Mauritius Officials During Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Bhubaneshwar On the occasion of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Bhubaneshwar, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a significant meeting with Mauritius' Minister Mahendra Gondeea and Deputy Minister Hambyrajen Narsinghen. This productive interaction highlights the strengthening of ties between India and Mauritius, fostering deeper collaboration and diplomatic engagement between the two nations. The Odisha government has planned numerous cultural events for the delegates, including the Rajarani Music Festival, International Odissi Dance Festival, and Food Festival. Guests can also enjoy the Adivasi Mela, Bird Festival in Chilika, Beach Festival in Puri, and light and sound shows at Dhauli and Konark. President Murmu is all set to present the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman awards to honor the achievements of diaspora members across various fields. The chief guest, Trinidad and Tobago President Christine Carla Kangaloo, address the convention virtually. This edition of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas serves as a powerful reminder of the cultural and historical connection that unites India with its overseas community, celebrating shared values and a collective future.
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.
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.
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 .
Odisha: PM Modi holds roadshow in Bhubaneshwar
Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducted a roadshow in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, after addressing party workers. He criticized the Congress party, accusing them of misleading citizens and plotting against the country. Modi is in Odisha to attend the All India Conference of Director Generals/Inspector Generals of Police, focusing on national security issues.
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, 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.
Murdered Mother-Daughter Found Buried in Odisha; 2 Detained
BHUBANESHWAR: In a shocking incident from Panchagheria village under Nayakanidihi police limits in Odishas Bhadrak district, the bodies of a 59-year-old woman and her daughter, who had been missing since late September, have been discovered buried near their village. The local police suspect they were murdered and have detained two individuals in connection with the crime. The victims, identified as Jamuna Nayak (59) and her daughter Kousalya Nayak (35), were last seen on September 27. After a thorough investigation, police now suspect Kousalyas husband, Gurupad Gahana, of murdering both women and burying their remains in a canal near the village. The gruesome discovery came to light after villagers reported seeing stray dogs scavenging human skeletal remains. Upon further investigation, the police unearthed skull fragments, teeth, bones, and other decomposed body parts from the site. Following the discovery, Bhadrak Sadar SDPO rushed to the scene and launched a full-scale investigation. Gurupad Gahana and his brother, Nirapad Gahana, have since been detained on suspicion of involvement in the double murder. Authorities believe that while Gurupad may have committed the murders, his brother Nirapad likely assisted in concealing the bodies. Sources revealed that Gurupad lived with his wife, Kousalya, and her mother, Jamuna. Though the motive remains unclear, police suspect a family dispute may have led to the tragic killings. What makes the case even more shocking is that after the murders, Gurupad and Nirapad reportedly filed a missing persons report in an attempt to cover up the crime. The investigation is ongoing, and we are probing all angles, police officials said.
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.
