Odisha: Pastor beaten, paraded, forced to eat cow dung by right-wing mob
Bhubaneswar: A Christian pastor was assaulted, paraded with a garland of shoes and forced to eat cow dung on suspicion of religious conversion in Odishas Dhenkanal district on January 4. The pastor Bipin Bihari Naik, his wife Vandana and others were in a prayer meeting on the day when a mob of 15 to 20 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 .
AcreRise Named Real Estate Developer of the Year at the Times Business Awards-2026
BHUBANESWAR (ODISHA) [INDIA]: January 21: AcreRise, one of Odishas most future-focused real estate developers, has been conferred the Real Estate Developer of the Year at the Times Business Awards-2026, reaffirming the brands leadership in transparency-driven, design-led, and compliant urban development. The recognition comes at a pivotal moment as Bhubaneswar enters its next phase of infrastructure-led growth. Founded by Sashikant Barik and Sheikh Mairajul Haque, AcreRise has positioned itself at the intersection of foresight, execution discipline and long-term value creationemerging as [] The post AcreRise Named Real Estate Developer of the Year at the Times Business Awards-2026 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
MP, AP, Karnataka, And Odisha Reach Semis At Womens National Cricket Tournament For The Blind 2026
KT Global School Ground: Defending champions Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and hosts Odisha made it to the semifinals of the Womens National Cricket Tournament for the Blind 2026 with commanding performances in the quarterfinals on Day 5 of the elite competition. With Tuesday's matches, the tournament entered the decisive knockout phase, paving the way for two exciting semifinal clashes scheduled on Wednesday. Played across venues in Bhubaneswar and Khordha, the quarterfinals witnessed some fine performances, underlining the depth of talent and competitive spirit showcased by women cricketers with visual impairment from across the country. At the Hitech Cricket Ground, Bhubaneswar, Madhya Pradesh Women delivered a dominant all-round performance, posting 201/1 in their allotted 20 overs. Their disciplined bowling effort restricted Maharashtra Women to 102/8, sealing a comprehensive 99-run victory. In another one-sided contest at KT Global School Ground, Khordha, Karnataka, Women asserted their supremacy with a formidable total of 262/4. West Bengal Women were held to 128/8, as Karnataka cruised to a massive 134-run win. The afternoon session at Hitech Cricket Ground saw the hosts Odisha Women rise to the occasion, scoring 177/3. Their bowlers then kept Rajasthan Women in check at 116/9, clinching the match by 61 runs. Completing the semifinal line-up, Andhra Pradesh Women showcased a clinical chase at KT Global School Ground. After restricting Gujarat Women to 132/3, Andhra Pradesh reached 133/2 in just 13.5 overs, registering a convincing eight-wicket victory. The tournament now moves into its most anticipated phase, with the semifinals scheduled for January 21, 2026, at the Hitech Cricket Ground, Bhubaneswar: As the competition intensifies, the semifinals promise high-quality cricket, fierce rivalries, and inspiring performances, bringing the tournament a step closer to crowning the national champions of womens cricket for the blind. Schedule: As the competition intensifies, the semifinals promise high-quality cricket, fierce rivalries, and inspiring performances, bringing the tournament a step closer to crowning the national champions of womens cricket for the blind. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Semifinal 2: Karnataka Women vs Odisha Women. Article Source: IANS
Odisha: Fire guts over 40 shops at Bhubaneswars Unit-1 Market
Over 40 shops were destroyed in a massive fire that broke out at Unit-1 Market in Bhubaneswar early Tuesday. Firefighters controlled the blaze within an hour. Speaking to ANI, Rout said, At 1:40 AM, we got a call on the 112 control room of Bhubaneswar that a fire had broken out... 2 teams of the fire station reached the spot
Bhubaneswar Fire: Over 40 shops gutted, no casualties reported
Tech Medical College Ground: Defending champions Madhya Pradesh, hosts Odisha, Karnataka, West Bengal, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh made it to the quarterfinal stage of the Womens National Cricket Tournament for the Blind 2026 as teams wrapped up the league stage and confirmed their places in the last-eight stage. With the league stage now concluded, the tournament moves into the quarterfinal phase on Tuesday. At the Hi-Tech Medical College Ground in Bhubaneswar, Madhya Pradesh will face Maharashtra, while Odisha will take on Rajasthan. Meanwhile, at the KT Cricket Academy in Barunei (Khordha), Karnataka, West Bengal will clash with West Bengal in the morning, followed by Gujarat versus Andhra Pradesh in the afternoon. As the tournament moves into the knockout stage, the competition is expected to intensify, highlighting the exceptional skill, determination, and sporting spirit of Indias women cricketers with visual impairments. Action on the third day of the Womens National Cricket Tournament for the Blind 2026 saw commanding performances across venues in Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, and Khordha. At Nimpur Cricket Ground, Cuttack, Rajasthan Women delivered a dominant batting performance, scoring 230/1, and went on to defeat Kerala Women by 47 runs. In the afternoon fixture at the same venue, Madhya Pradesh Women registered a convincing nine-wicket victory over Tamil Nadu Women, chasing down the target comfortably in under nine overs. At the KT Global School Ground, Khordha, Andhra Pradesh, Women showcased a flawless run chase, defeating Chandigarh Women by 10 wickets in the morning match. Later in the day, Odisha Women continued their strong form, overcoming Bihar Women by eight wickets with a brisk chase. At Nimpur Cricket Ground, Cuttack, Rajasthan Women delivered a dominant batting performance, scoring 230/1, and went on to defeat Kerala Women by 47 runs. In the afternoon fixture at the same venue, Madhya Pradesh Women registered a convincing nine-wicket victory over Tamil Nadu Women, chasing down the target comfortably in under nine overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score At the nearby Paramount Sporting Club in Bhubaneswar, Gujarat Women successfully chased down Jharkhand Womens total to win by seven wickets. The final match of the day saw Karnataka Women post the highest score of Day 3, defeating Delhi Women by 60 runs in a high-scoring contest. Article Source: IANS
MP, Karnataka, Haryana, Odisha Win On Day 2 Of Womens National Cricket Tournament For The Blind 2026
KT Global School Ground: Defending champions Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Karnataka, Odisha, Maharashtra, and Haryana won their respective matches on Day 2 of the Womens National Cricket Tournament for the Blind 2026, which saw high-intensity contests as 16 teams continued their battle for supremacy across multiple venues in Jajpur and Bhubaneswar. At the Paramount Sporting Club, Bhubaneswar, Kerala Women overpowered Tamil Nadu Women in the first match of the day, chasing down 108 in just under 10 overs to win by 10 wickets. Later, Madhya Pradesh defeated Rajasthan by 7 wickets, reaching the target of 152 in 14.1 overs. KT Global School Ground, Khordha: Karnataka Women secured a comfortable 8-wicket victory against Jharkhand Women, chasing 88 runs in just over 10 overs. In a close contest, Gujarat Women edged past Delhi Women by 1 run, posting 211/3 and defending it successfully. At the Dharmasala Stadium in Jajpur, hosts Odisha Women defeated Andhra Pradesh by 31 runs, scoring 141/8 and restricting Andhra Pradesh to 110/8. Bihar Women also triumphed over Chandigarh Women by 37 runs, scoring 170/1 and defending it effectively. In a match played at the Nimpur Cricket Ground in nearby Cuttack, strong contenders Haryana Women set a high target of 242/4 and beat Assam Women by 44 runs. In a thrilling contest, Maharashtra Women scored 267/2 and narrowly defeated Uttar Pradesh Women, who managed 260/9, winning by just 7 runs. The tournament continues to highlight not only cricketing excellence but also empowerment, confidence, and inclusion among visually impaired women athletes. Each match has provided players with a platform to display their talent and determination while contributing to the broader movement of promoting disability sports in India. In a match played at the Nimpur Cricket Ground in nearby Cuttack, strong contenders Haryana Women set a high target of 242/4 and beat Assam Women by 44 runs. In a thrilling contest, Maharashtra Women scored 267/2 and narrowly defeated Uttar Pradesh Women, who managed 260/9, winning by just 7 runs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The highest team score was posted by Maharashtra Women with 267/2; the biggest victory by runs was registered by Haryana Women, winning by 44 runs. The largest victory by wickets was scored by Kerala Women, winning by 10 wickets, while teams registering wins included Kerala, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Bihar, Haryana, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, showcasing competitive and high-quality cricket across all venues. Article Source: IANS
In Odisha, 10 held for cattle smuggling, assets worth `50 crore seized
PTI Bhubaneswar/Keonjhar Odisha Police on Saturday launched raids at 46 locations in Bhadrak, Jajpur, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj and Khurda districts in connection with alleged cattle smuggling, a senior officer said on Saturday. The operation against illegal cattle traders was launched in the early morning by multiple police teams comprising two additional superintendents of police, 5 DSPs, []
Government aims to formally recognise 1 lakh tribal healers from STs as partners in health services
At the plenary session, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs also signed MoU with the ICMRRegional Medical Research Centre, Bhubaneswar, to set up Indias first National Tribal Health Observatory, to be known as the Bharat Tribal Health Observatory.
Bhubaneswar Open Drain Claims Another Life, Alleged Civic Negligence
Residents of Salia Sahi are mourning the loss of Sinu Gagrai, who died after falling into an uncovered drain.
HIL seeks Government support for better turnout in its last leg in Bhubaneswar
Inter-State cyber fraud racket busted; people from Bihar, Kerala, Odisha arrested
Acting on a tip-off, officers raided a house in the Badagada police station area of Bhubaneswar, Odisha
Odisha aircraft crash: Two airlifted to Mumbai, one in ventilator support
Bhubaneswar: Two passengers injured in the emergency crash landing of a small aircraft near Rourkela in Odisha were airlifted to Mumbai for treatment, while another injured person is under ventilator support, a senior official said on Sunday. At least six people, including two pilots, were injured when a nine-seater aircraft of India One made an 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 .
Rare Sculptural Finds Emerge As ASI Revives Dig At Bhubaneswars Sukasari Temple
The excavation, which had remained suspended for nearly three years, was formally relaunched earlier this month after a ceremonial commencement attended by Bhubaneswar MP Aparajita Sarangi and local legislator Babu Singh: Reports
Aircraft makes crash landing in Odisha, six passengers injured
Rourkela/Bhubaneswar: At least six people suffered minor injuries when a small aircraft of a private airline in which they were flying made a crash landing near Rourkela on Saturday, January 10, Odishas Commerce and Transport minister B B Jena said. The incident took place near Rourkela, he said. One A-1 nine-seater private flight carrying passengers 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 .
India One Air aircraft crashes near Rourkela; no fatalities
India One Air's Caravan 208 aircraft made a force landing near Rourkela with six people on board. All passengers and crew survived the incident, which occurred approximately eight nautical miles short of the destination. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation confirmed the aircraft was en route from Bhubaneswar to Rourkela, and the pilots' actions were credited with saving lives.
Odisha plane crash: At least 6 injured after small aircraft crash lands near Rourkela
A small aircraft of a private airline crashed, leaving at least six people suffering minor injuries when landing near Rourkela on Saturday. One A-1 nine-seater private flight carrying six passengers from Rourkela to Bhubaneswar has met with an accident. The passengers have sustained minor injuries and are stable. It took place at Jalda, 10 kilometres from Rourkela. By the grace of God, this is not a major accident, Odisha's Commerce and Transport minister BB Jena told reporters.
At least six people injured as private aircraft makes forced landing near Rourkela
Airport sources said that it was a regular flight between Rourkela and Bhubaneswar run by a private operator
At least six people injured as private aircraft makes crash landing near Rourkela
Airport sources said that it was a regular flight between Rourkela and Bhubaneswar run by a private operator
Aircraft Carrying Nine Passengers Crashes Near Rourkela Airstrip In Odisha
A small aircraft with nine passengers crashed near Jagada block by Rourkela airstrip in Odisha while trying to take off for Bhubaneswar on Saturday.
Odisha Plane Crash: Six people injured as nine-seater aircraft makes crash landing near Rourkela
Rourkela Plane Crash: A private aircraft made a crash landing near Rourkela on Saturday. Six people on board sustained minor injuries. The flight was en route from Bhubaneswar to Rourkela. Rescue teams reached the site promptly. The injured were taken to the hospital. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has been informed about the incident.
CISF Personnel Revive Man With Timely CPR At Bhubaneswar Airport
The man, an employee of the Institute of Life Sciences Hospital and Blood Bank Services (ILHBS) deployed at the airport, lost consciousness without warning while on duty: Reports
OLA Cab Driver Abandons Passenger, Flees With Diamond And Gold Jewellery In Bhubaneswar
According to police, the victim, Aman Kumar Agrawal, had arrived from Thailand and booked an OLA cab from Bhubaneswar airport to Sector 9 in Cuttack
Bhubaneswar Faces 65.5 MLD Water Deficit; Odisha Orders Fast-Track Projects
The review meeting, chaired by principal secretary, housing and urban development department, Usha Padhee at Kharavela Bhawan, was attended by senior officials of the Water Corporation of Odisha (WATCO) and the department.
Concern over Odishas deteriorating air quality
The Air Quality Index surged beyond 300 classified as very poor in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Angul, Balasore and Baripada despite lower vehicular density
Kalinga Literary Festival to celebrate literature without borders
The 12th edition from January 8-11 in Bhubaneswar will draw writers, thinkers, artists and other participants from India and all over the world
No Speeding, No Drunk Driving: Odisha Puts Ama Bus Drivers Under Oath As Road Deaths Rise
The oath-taking exercise is being implemented across the state, including in major urban centres such as Bhubaneswar and Rourkela.
Express Trains To Halt In Srikakulam Minister Rammohan Naidu Thanks Railways For New Express Halts
The Railway Ministry had approved new halts for the PuriAhmedabad Express at Ichchapuram, BerhampurVisakhapatnam Express at Tilaru, and the BhubaneswarVisakhapatnam New Express at Baruva: Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu s
AIIMS Bhubaneswar Performs First Liver Transplant; Successful Milestone
The donor and the recipient are stable and recovering well, more than 10 days after the procedure,
Flight service affected at Bhubaneswar airport due to dense fog
Bhubaneswar: Flight services at the Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) in Bhubaneswar were disrupted on Thursday morning due to dense fog, an airport officer said. Due to poor visibility on the runway in the morning from around 6.30 am, led to the diversion and delay of several flights, causing inconvenience to passengers. For operation of 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 .
Indian Railways to double train capacity in Bhubaneswar, Puri and Vizag by 2030
BHUBANESWAR: Amid significant growth in passenger travel demand, Indian Railways has drawn up an ambitious infrastructure upgradation plan to double the originating train capacity at three major stations in Bhubaneswar, Puri and Visakhapatnam under East Coast Railway (ECoR) by 2030. As part of the comprehensive plan, railway infrastructure in Bhubaneswar, Puri and Visakhapatnam will be significantly augmented over the next five years to meet rising passenger needs, decongest existing terminals and improve operational efficiency. The capacity enhancement includes a mix of infrastructure development like terminal expansion, creation of new satellite stations, development of large-scale maintenance facilities and strengthening of sectional capacity through modern signalling and multitracking works. ECoR sources said, the strategy focuses on augmenting existing terminals with additional passenger platforms, stabling lines, pit lines and improved shunting facilities, while also developing new terminals in and around urban areas to balance traffic load. Major emphasis is being laid on setting up mega coaching complexes and modern maintenance depots to support the expanded train operations. Sectional capacity will also be enhanced through traffic facility works, signalling upgrades, flyovers, bypass lines and additional tracks to ensure smooth handling of increased train volumes. To support increased train volumes, multiple projects, including automatic block signalling and flyovers in Puri; pit line electrification, safety fencing, fourth lines and bypass surveys in Bhubaneswar; and several third, fourth, fifth and sixth lines, flyovers and bypass projects in Visakhapatnam are going on. Nearby stations will also be taken into account while planning capacity enhancement at the three cities so that the overall network capacity is evenly distributed and operational bottlenecks are avoided. The capacity-doubling initiative is a part of a nationwide plan covering 48 major cities identified by Indian Railways. At Puri, two additional full-length integrated pit lines are under construction and the upcoming lines will supplement the existing six pit lines. The entire coaching maintenance facility has been proposed to be shifted to a second coaching terminal depot on the sanctioned Puri-Konark new line, for which a final location survey (FLS) has been proposed. A large-scale coaching complex is also planned on this new line to cater to future traffic growth, particularly during peak pilgrimage and tourist seasons, railway sources said. The new Bhubaneswar railway station is being developed as a satellite coaching terminal. It will be supported by a maintenance facility comprising two pit lines at Mancheswar with dedicated rail connectivity. Given space constraints in the city, additional depots and supporting infrastructure are being planned in nearby areas to ease pressure on the existing station and yard. Similarly, a detailed project report (DPR) for extensive yard modification at Visakhapatnam is under consideration by the Railway Board. The proposal includes five additional lines, six new passenger platforms, ten stabling lines and the introduction of electronic interlocking to enhance safety and operational flexibility. Besides, Jagannadhapuram station on the proposed Kottavalasa-Anakapalle bypass line is being planned as a mega coaching maintenance depot and a large-scale complex. It will operate as a satellite station for Visakhapatnam. Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw said the initiative reflects Indian Railways focus on future-ready infrastructure. We are expanding coaching terminals and enhancing sectional and operational capacities in various cities to meet rising passenger demand and reduce congestion. This move will upgrade the countrys railway network and improve nationwide connectivity, he said.
ECoR to Double Train Capacity in Bhubaneswar, Puri and Vizag by 2030
In Puri, two additional integrated pit lines are under construction, augmenting the existing six.
CEC begins 3-day Odisha tour, calls BLOs 'pillars of election process'
Before concluding his visit, Mr. Kumar will interact with around 700 BLOs from Khurda and Cuttack districts on December 29 in Bhubaneswar
Former ORHDC Chief Vinod Kumar Convicted Again in Vigilance Case; Tally Rises to 12
The Special Judge (Vigilance), Bhubaneswar, held Kumar and his co-accused guilty of criminal conspiracy, forgery and misappropriation of public funds amounting to 52.95 lakh
Hardik to lead HIL governing council squad in 2026
Hardik Singh will lead the HIL Governing Council team in the Hockey India League. The tournament begins January 3 in Chennai. The team features experienced players and promising youngsters. The league will have eight franchises competing in a single round-robin format. Playoffs and the final will be held in Bhubaneswar. The league aims to provide continuity for players.
Airports witness 7% surge in passenger traffic during November 2025 over same period last year
NEW DELHI: Airports across the country have recorded a 7% increase in passenger traffic during November 2025 as compared to the same month last year, according to the Airports Authority of India (AAI). Air Traffic data for last month has just been released by the Authority. Over 3.79 crore flyers were recorded in the country last month, of which a little over three crore were domestic flyers. The overall international growth in the month was 7.5% (70,60,493 vs 65,69,934) while the domestic growth was 7% (3,79,51,054 vs 3,54,52,122) over the compared month last year. The domestic passenger traffic in relatively smaller airports has been in healthy double digits highlighting the aspiration for air travel among the non-metro population. Despite the negative publicity for Goa due to its taxi monopoly, overpriced hotels and overcrowded beaches, international patronage to the tourist haven has shot up by 31. 4%. A total of 20,479 flyers travelled last month as compared to 15,581 flyers in November 2024. Its domestic patronage has taken a beating with a 10.5% dip in flyers with just 5.4 lakh passengers from other States visiting it last month. The number was 6.1 lakh visitors in November last year. While the biggies have seen moderate growth, relatively smaller airports have recorded a growth of over 30% international passengers in November this year over the patronage witnessed in the same month last year. Bhubaneswar has seen a growth of 30.5% (14,220 flyers) Tiruchirappalli has 39.9% (19,402 flyers), Varanasi 40.4% (16,070 flyers) and Mangaluru 35.4% (76,579 flyers), Indore has doubled its patronage with a 99.9% growth (8,902 flyers as compared to 4,454 earlier) while Pune has seen a 49% patronage with 30,633 flyers. Among the major airports in the country, Bengalurus Kempegowda International Airport continues its steady international growth with 6,42,647 passengers, a 27.3% increase in November 2025 vs November 2024. Hyderabad too has seen significant patronage with a 21% growth (4,86,126 flyers). Mumbai has seen a 6.5% (14,61,956 flyers) Chennai 6.1% (5,03,589) growth while Delhi has seen a 3% increase (19,07,845). Domestic picture On the domestic front, these airports have recorded a substantial growth with the patronage figure in the bracket Agra 77% (26470 flyers), Kozhikode 34.3% (16,90,918 flyers); Tiruchirappalli 50.9% (65,297); Tirupati 30.7% (1,08,441); Kannur 35.8% (35,637), Gaya 38.7% (27,862), Belagavi 32.1% (32118) and Indore 26.6% (27862). Hindon airport has seen a 2998% growth! It is 1,22,381 flyers versus 3,950 last November. Adampur (Jalandhar) has seen a 319.7% surge with 13,595 passengers, Rewa has recorded 179.9% surge (949 flyers) Jaisalmer 121.5% growth (43,971) while Bhuj has seen a 110% growth with 26,687 flyers. The Air Traffic Movements (Arrivals and Departures) have seen an increase of 7.3% with 40,909 ATMs recorded in November 2025 over November 2024. The freight growth too is a healthy 15.6% with 337.45 thousand tonnes versus 291.84 thousand tonnes in the compared period.
Uikes death has broken backbone of Maoist activities in Odisha: DGP
Bhubaneswar: Ganesh Uike, 69, a battle-hardened Maoist leader, finally fell to the bullets of security personnel in Kandhamal district on Thursday, less than a year after taking charge of Odisha operations, officials said. Uike, a central committee member of the outfit carrying a bounty of Rs 1.1 crore, was shot dead in a dense forest 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 .
Telugu Maoist Ganesh Uike neutralised in Odisha, carried Rs 1.1 crore bounty
Bhubaneswar: A high-ranking Telugu Maoist commander, Ganesh Uike, was reported killed along with five others, including two women, in a major operation in the forests of Kandhmal, Odisha, in a joint operation between the Border Security Force (BSF) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) on Wednesday, December 25. The encounter took place in the 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 .
Over 8,000 candidates write home guard test in Sambalpur airstrip
Bhubaneswar: Sambalpurs airstrip in Odisha was converted into an exam centre, where more than 8,000 candidates appeared to compete for a limited 187 Home Guard posts on December 16. The Aerial footage of the scene of several thousand candidates, some of them reportedly with MBA and MCA degrees, went viral on social media. According to 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 .
PHFI opens admissions for MPH programme on Hyderabad, Bhubaneswar campuses
NEW DELHI: Amid a growing incidence of cancer, particularly breast cancer, in Indias North-Eastern states, a parliamentary panel has urged the CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB) to collaborate with the Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital to investigate the underlying causes of this trend. The Department-Related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology, Environment, Forests and Climate Change has expressed concern over the rising cancer burden in the region. Chaired by Bhubaneswar Kalita, the 31-member committee noted that IGIBs pioneering work in breast cancer genomics, including the identification of Indian-specific molecular subtypes and biomarkers, could play a critical role in understanding cancer susceptibility among North-Eastern populations. In its 403rd report reviewing the functioning of CSIR institutions such as IGIB and the Central Scientific Instruments Organisation (CSIO), the committee stated: It is essential to examine whether the ethnic groups of the North-East are genetically predisposed to specific types of cancers or whether environmental, lifestyle and ethnic risk factors are contributing to their heightened susceptibility. To address this, the committee recommended a formal collaboration between CSIR-IGIB and the Tata Memorial Centre, which treats around 150,000 new cancer patients each year. Such a partnership, it said, would enable comprehensive research into genomic, environmental, lifestyle and ethnic determinants of cancer in the region. Beyond cancer research, the committee advised IGIB to prioritise studies on identifying and characterising microbial communities capable of degrading sewage, industrial effluents and other pollutants contaminating the Yamuna River. The panel also reviewed IGIBs ongoing health studies aimed at identifying biomarkers and risk factors unique to the Indian population, with the objective of developing India-specific risk models for cardio-metabolic diseases such as diabetes, liver disorders and heart disease. It recommended that IGIB intensify efforts to generate robust, India-specific health reference standards in a time-bound manner, ensuring adequate representation from all regions of the country. Under the rare disease diagnostic programme, the committee commended IGIB for developing Indias first indigenous CRISPR-based gene therapy for sickle cell disease. It further recommended genomic studies of Indian tribal populations to investigate haemoglobinopathies, other inherited and endemic disorders, and cancer. Based on these findings, IGIB was urged to develop targeted diagnostic tools, genetic counselling services, and preventive and therapeutic strategies. However, the committee also raised concerns over a lack of transparency and accountability in IGIBs technology transfer processes, despite the institute being publicly funded. It recommended that IGIB publish relevant detailswhile respecting confidentiality agreementson transferred technologies, participating firms and associated fees on its website and in its annual reports. Finally, noting the persistent shortage of funds faced by research laboratories and institutions, the panel suggested diversifying revenue streams. Recommendations included commercialising intellectual property, expanding industry partnerships, increasing externally funded research, enhancing corporate social responsibility outreach, and strengthening technology transfer mechanisms by offering technologies at competitive prices.
The affected flights were operating on routes connecting Hyderabad with major cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Patna, Ahmedabad, Pune, Goa, Bhubaneswar, Bangalore, Chennai and Madurai
Tata Power to finalise Rs 6,500-cr wafer-ingot project by January: CEO Praveer Sinha
BHUBANESWAR, Dec 16: Tata Power is looking to finalise its 10 GW wafer and ingot project, to be set up at an estimated cost of Rs 6,500 crore, by January next year, the companys CEO and MD Praveer Sinha said. The company is in talks with various states and will decide on the location soon, he saidon the sidelines of a company event here. Tata Power is looking to set up a 10 gigawatt wafer and ingot plant as part [] The post Tata Power to finalise Rs 6,500-cr wafer-ingot project by January: CEO Praveer Sinha appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Odisha political clash: BJD workers stage protest before DGP office
BJD leaders and workers are protesting in Bhubaneswar, demanding the arrest of individuals involved in a violent clash in Jajpur district. The incident, which occurred at a BJD leader's farmhouse, left 15 injured, with five seriously hurt. Vehicles were also vandalized. Opposition leader Naveen Patnaik condemned the alleged 'goondaraj' and urged immediate action against the culprits.
Excise officials attacked by miscreants during raids on bars in Bhubaneswar
The raids were conducted in the wake of a major fire incident in a restaurant at Palasuni in Satya Vihar area on December 12
IndiGo flight suffers tail strike while landing at Ranchi airport
RANCHI: An IndiGo flight suffered a tail strike while landing at the Ranchi airport, officials said on Saturday. The incident happened around 7.30 pm on Friday when the Bhubaneswar-Ranchi flight was landing with around 70 passengers on board, they said. The tail of the aircraft touched the runway during landing. Passengers experienced a sudden jolt. However, they were all safe and unharmed, Ranchi airport Director Vinod Kumar told PTI. The plane was grounded following the incident, as it was found to be technically ineligible for takeoff, he said. Its next departure from Ranchi to Bhubaneswar was cancelled. Some passengers cancelled their journey, while some rescheduled their travel. Some passengers were sent to Bhubaneswar by road, he added.
After deadly Goa fire that killed 25, blaze reported at bar in Odishas Bhubaneswar
Following a deadly Goa nightclub fire, another blaze erupted at a Bhubaneswar bar, raising concerns about entertainment venue safety. Fire services are actively working to control the flames and prevent them from spreading to adjacent structures. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported in this incident.
Massive Fire At Bar In Bhubaneswar. Thick Black Smoke Seen Atop Building
A massive fire erupted at a bar in Bhubaneswar this morning. Thick plumes of smoke were seen on the top floor of the building that houses the bar, in horrifying visuals from the Satya Vihar area in Odisha's capital this morning.
NIA files charge sheet against 11 Maoists for looting explosives in Odishas Sundergarh
Bhubaneswar: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a charge sheet against 11 accused persons in a case relating to the loot of around 4,000 kg of explosives by armed cadres of the CPI (Maoist) during transportation to a stone quarry in Odishas Sundergarh district, an official said. According to a statement released by the 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 .
Shift Parliament sessions out of polluted Delhi, BJD MP urges government
NEW DELHI: BJD Rajya Sabha member Manas Ranjan Mangaraj on Thursday appealed to the government to relocate Parliament's Winter and Budget sessions out of Delhi until air quality improves, calling the capital's annual pollution crisis a man-made disaster. Raising the issue during Zero Hour, Mangaraj, who hails from Odisha, drew parallels between his state's efficient response to natural calamities and the need for similar urgency in addressing Delhi's air pollution. Coming from Odisha, a state that fights cyclones, floods and natural calamities with unmatched discipline, I know what a crisis looks like. But what troubles me is Delhi, he said. The MP highlighted the daily exposure to toxic air faced by members, parliamentary officers, drivers, sanitation workers, and security personnel who keep the House functioning. We cannot ignore their suffering. We cannot pretend this is normal, he said, adding that holding crucial parliamentary sessions during peak pollution months puts lives at risk unnecessarily. Mangaraj suggested several cities with cleaner air and adequate infrastructure as potential alternatives, including Bhubaneswar, Hyderabad, Gandhinagar, Bengaluru, Goa, and Dehradun. If Odisha can evacuate lakhs of people within hours during a cyclone and save lives with precision, then surely the government of India can relocate two sessions of Parliament to protect the health of its own members and staff, he argued. Emphasising that his proposal was not politically motivated, Mangaraj said, This is not about politics. This is about life and dignity. Parliament must show leadership. Parliament must show that the right to live comes before condemnation. He urged the government to initiate structured consultations without delay to explore the feasibility of rotating Parliament sessions to cities with better air quality during the winter months. Delhi's air quality typically deteriorates sharply between October and January due to a combination of factors, including stubble burning, vehicular emissions, construction dust, and weather conditions that trap pollutants. The winter session, which includes crucial legislative business and the budget session, coincides with the annual peak pollution period.
India beat Argentina by 4-2 to win bronze in FIH Mens Junior WC
CHENNAI, Dec 10: India produced a brave-heart performance, nullifying a two-goal deficit to beat Argentina 4-2 and clinch the bronze medal in the FIH Mens Junior World Cup here on Wednesday. India, who won the title in 2016 in Lucknow, failed to finish on the podium on the last two occasions, ending fourth in 2021 in Bhubaneswar, and two years later in Kuala Lumpur. India produced a valiant fightback with Ankit Pal (49th minute), Manmeet Singh (52nd) and Anmol Ekka [] The post India beat Argentina by 4-2 to win bronze in FIH Mens Junior WC appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Centre approves road projects worth 44,771 crore for Odisha
The approved projects included widening of the National Highway between Bhubaneswar and Puri, and the 140-km-long Tangi-Puintola-Ichchapuram Road
Some IndiGo flights depart from Chennai airport, but spate of cancellations continues
Delays persisted, but from 3 a.m. onwards, flights to cities including Pune, Ahmedabad, Guwahati, Bhubaneswar, Jaipur, Coimbatore, and Kochi departed from the city airport
Centenarian doctor donates 3.4 crore to AIIMS Bhubaneswar for cancer research
Professor K. Laxmi Bais contribution will create a corpus fund to support gynaecological oncology research and preventive care
IndiGo Chaos: Newlywed Couple Attends Wedding Reception Online After Flight Cancellation (VIDEO)
A newlywed techie couple was forced to attend their own wedding reception virtually after IndiGo cancelled their BhubaneswarHubballi flight amid nationwide disruptions. Heres what happened.
Video: IndiGo flight cancellation forces couple to attend reception virtually
Hubbali: Amid the ongoing IndiGo flights chaos, a newlywed couple were pushed to attend their own reception via video conference after their flights to Hubbali were cancelled. The couple, Medha Kshirsagar and Sangama Das, were married in the grooms hometown of Bhubaneswar on November 23 and were planning to host a reception at Gujarat Bhavan 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 .
IndiGo flight chaos: Newlyweds attend their own reception online, Singapore envoy misses wedding
A newlywed couple missed their wedding reception in Hubballi after IndiGo flights were repeatedly delayed and then cancelled. Stranded in Bhubaneswar, they joined their reception via video call. Relatives travelled from various cities for the event. The bride's father arranged a screen for the virtual attendance. This incident highlights widespread flight disruptions across India.
A couple in Bhubaneswar had to attend their own reception online after IndiGo cancelled their flight to Hubballi.
Odisha Drama Teacher Arrested For Sexually Harassing Girl Student: Cops
A guest faculty of Odisha government-run Utkal Sangeet Mahavidyalaya in Bhubaneswar was arrested on Thursday for allegedly sexually harassing a girl student, police said.
HSBC INDIA Expands its Presence in Gujarat with a New Branch in Vadodara
HSBC India on Saturday unveiled its new branch in Vadodara, Gujarat, marking a significant step in its strategic expansion across the country. This launch signifies the banks 27th branch in India and its second in Gujarat, following Reserve Bank of Indias approval earlier this year to open 20 new bank branches in key cities. Chef Ranveer Brar, Her Highness Radhikaraje Gaekwad, Maharani of Baroda & Sandeep Batra, Head, International Wealth & Premier Banking, HSBC India, at the branch inauguration Vadodara, known for its rapid economic growth and industrial prowess, is emerging as a significant hub for wealth creation. The city is home to a burgeoning population of affluent, High Net Worth (HNW), Ultra High Net Worth (UHNW), and non-resident clients in one of Indias rapidly growing wealth and industrial hubs. HSBCs new branch is strategically positioned to meet the financial and wealth needs of this customer segment. The expansion reinforces HSBCs focus on the wealth opportunity in India, where it is the leading international bank offering a full spectrum of solutions and services to clients across International Wealth and Premier Banking, and Corporate and Institutional Banking. Commenting on the launch, Sandeep Batra, Head of International Wealth and Premier Banking, HSBC India , said, As entrepreneurial spirit and innovation continue to drive economic growth and personal wealth, affluent customers are increasingly adopting a global outlook. They are seeking a trusted partner who is able to consistently serve them across jurisdictions. Our new branch in Vadodara reflects our commitment to being closer to our customers and delivering world-class banking solutions tailored to their unique needs. As the leading international bank in India, we remain focused on enabling our clients to unlock opportunities and achieve their aspirations, both in India and internationally . With this addition, HSBC now has a network of 27 branches across 15 cities in India. HSBC has maintained a strong presence in India for over 170 years, supporting customers in their financial journeys both locally and globally. Further HSBC India will open branches in Amritsar, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Dehradun, Faridabad, Indore, Jalandhar, Kanpur, Ludhiana, Lucknow, Mysuru, Nagpur, Nashik, Navi Mumbai, Patna, Rajkot, Surat, Thiruvananthapuram and Vishakhapatnam. About HSBC India HSBC India offers a full range of banking and financial services through 27 branches across 15 cities. HSBC is one of India's leading financial services groups, with around 44,000 employees in its banking, investment banking and capital markets, asset management, insurance, software development and global resourcing operations in the country. It is a leading custodian in India. The Bank is at the forefront in arranging deals for Indian companies investing overseas and foreign investments into the country. About HSBC Holdings plc HSBC Holdings plc, the parent company of HSBC, is headquartered in London. HSBC serves customers worldwide from offices in 60 countries and territories. With assets of US$3,099bn at 30 September 2024, HSBC is one of the worlds largest banking and financial services organisations.
Social media influencer tenders apology, removes controversial video on Jagannath Temple
Bhubaneswar: Social media influencer Shubhankar Mishra, who has been booked for allegedly hurting the religious sentiments of Lord Jagannath devotees, on Tuesday tendered an unconditional apology for his controversial video on the 12th-century shrine. Mishra, in his YouTube channel, said that he does not have any wrong intention to spread such information on the social 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 .
Six flights cancelled at Chennai airport citing operational reasons
Flights to destinations including Guwahati, Jaipur, Bhubaneswar, Kochi andMumbai, were cancelled by the airlines due to operational reasons, AAI said
Student found dead at KIIT University hostel in Bhubaneswar
The first year engineering student pursuing Computer Science programme was found hanging in his hostel room on Sunday, with the door locked from inside. A case of unnatural death has been registered. Earlier this year, two students from Nepal had ended their lives.
Crude Bombs Hurled Near School Gate In Odisha's Bhubaneswar, Probe Underway
According to police sources, bike-borne assailants hurled the bombs at the school gate, which usually sees heavy student movement in the morning.
Odisha revises Maoist policy; to provide surrender reward up to Rs 1.20 crore
Bhubaneswar: To eradicate left-wing extremism in the state, the Odisha government has launched a revised Maoist surrender and rehabilitation policy with a provision of maximum financial assistance up to Rs 1.20 crore and also enhanced reward money for surrendered firearms. Additional Director General of Police (Anti-Maoist operation), Sanjeeb Panda said: Top Maoist leaders like central 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 .
Crude bombs hurled near school in Bhubaneshwar, no one injured
Bhubaneswar: Miscreants hurled crude bombs near Kendriya Vidyalaya-3 here on Friday morning, triggering panic in the area, police said. However, no one was hurt in the incident. A team from Mancheswar police station reached the spot soon after receiving information and began an investigation. BhubaneswarCuttack Police Commissioner S Dev Datta Singh also visited the site. 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 .
Bombing Near Bhubaneswar Kendriya Vidyalaya: NIA Team Visits Site For Probe
The crude bombs were reportedly hurled near Gate No. 3 of the school around 8 a.m. by unidentified bike-borne miscreants. While no injuries were reported, the blast damaged the school gate and a section of the boundary wall
RAIPUR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the All India Conference of Director Generals/Inspector Generals of police on 29-30 November at the Indian Institute of Management, Nava Raipur. The three-day conference, scheduled to commence from November 28 (Friday) aims to review the progress achieved in addressing key policing challenges so far and to outline a forward-looking roadmap for building a Surakshit Bharat in alignment with the national vision of Viksit Bharat. Held under the overarching theme Viksit Bharat: Security Dimensions, the conference will host detailed deliberations on key security issues such as left-wing extremism, counter terrorism, disaster management, womens safety, and the use of forensic science and artificial intelligence in policing. The PM will also confer the Presidents Police Medals for Distinguished Service. According to the senior officials, the M1 and M11 sections of the newly constructed Speaker House in Naya Raipur have been designated as the vital nerve centre, serving as the stay for the PM Modi and union home minister Amit Shah. The conference will be attended by National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, Ministers of State (Home Affairs), DGPs of States/UTs and Heads of Central Police Organisations. The conference will be a vital interactive platform for senior police officials and security administrators from across the country to engage in open and meaningful exchanges on a wide range of national security issues. It also facilitates the discussion of operational, infrastructural, and welfare-related challenges faced by the Police forces, along with the formulation and sharing of professional practices in addressing crime, maintaining law and order, and responding to internal security threats. PM Modi has consistently taken a keen interest in such annual conferences, encouraging candid discussions and fostering an environment where fresh ideas on policing can emerge. Business sessions, break-out interactions and thematic dining table discussions offer participants an opportunity to share their perspectives directly with the Prime Minister on critical internal security and policy matters. Since 2014, the format of the DGP/IG Conference has undergone continuous upgradation under the PMs guidance, including hosting it at diverse locations across the country. The conference has so far been held in Guwahati (Assam), Rann of Kutch (Gujarat), Hyderabad (Telangana), Tekanpur (Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh), Statue of Unity (Kevadiya, Gujarat), Pune (Maharashtra), Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh), New Delhi and Jaipur (Rajasthan) and Bhubaneswar (Odisha). Continuing this tradition, the 60th Conference is being organized this year in Raipur, Chhattisgarh.
Employees protest across country demanding withdrawal of new labour codes
NEW DELHI: Lakhs of employees across different sectors in the country staged protests on Wednesday against the new labour codes which came into effect from November 21. The nationwide protest was called by a platform of ten central trade unions and the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), a coalition of 40 farmer unions. They have demanded an immediate withdrawal of the move and the introduction of farmer-friendly policies. The groups also submitted a joint representation to President Droupadi Murmu highlighting their multiple grievances. Amarjeet Kaur, General Secretary of the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) told this newspaper, The protest against the recently implemented labour codes was held at different periods by employees. Some did it before their shift commenced while some opted to do it after the completion of duty hours. Raising slogans loudly, wearing black badges, carrying placards or staging a sit-in protest were among the different steps resorted by the employees.The protests will continue and could culminate in a general strike unless the government rolls back the codes, Kaur added. Employees in Banks, Insurance, electricity, water, education and coal were among those who backed the protest, she added. The representation submitted to the President listed 16 demands from the organisations. Repeal of the four Labour Codes, no Contractualisation or outsourcing of labour in any form, withdrawal of draft Labour Policy-Shram Shakti Niti 2025, implementation of the National Minimum Wage of Rs 26,000 per month and pension at Rs.10,000 per month. Labour protest in Assam. The demands also included Social Security benefits for all workers including organised, unorganised, scheme workers, contract workers and agriculture sector, comprehensive loan waiver for farmers and agricultural workers to end indebtedness and suicides as well as credit facilities for farmers and workers at low interest rates figured among the demands. In a joint statement on the protest, SKM and the trade unions alleged, These labour codes are a negation of the labour rights won over after a struggle of 150 years from British Raj onwards. These codes negate our right to strike, make union registration problematic, de-recognition of unions easy, the process of conciliation and adjudication cumbersome, wind up labour courts and introduce tribunal for workers, and give overriding power to registrars to de-register unions, the statement further read. The definition of wage is being changed and the schedule of occupations for minimum wages applicability has been abolished, the statement added. The changes in Industrial code and its rule for increasing applicability-threshold from 100 to 300 would push out 70 percent of industries out of the coverage of labour laws, the threshold changes in Factory Act from 10 to 20 where power supply is used and 20 to 40 without power consumption would throw out substantial number of workforce from the coverage of labour laws, it pointed out. Labour protest at Bhubaneswar. This gives the employers the wide discretionary powers to repress and exploit, the Unions charged. Apart from AITUC, the other Unions which are part of the platform are the Indian National Trade Union Congress, Centre of Indian Trade Unions, All India United Trade Union Centre, Hind Mazdoor Sabha, All India Central Council of Trade Unions, Self-employed Womens Association, Trade Union Coordination Centre, Labour Progressive Federation and United Trade Union Congress have joined hands.
ASI firms up framework to end excavation delays
NEW DELHI: Learning from years of stalled excavations and delayed reports, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is preparing a structured framework to ensure that major archaeological projects no longer hinge on individual officers or collapse when they are transferred or retire. The proposed guidelines, officials said, will clearly define objectives for every excavation, establish continuity regardless of personnel changes, and impose stricter accountability across branches. At present, excavations often run on the initiative of individual officials. When one leaves, there is no coordination and the next person starts work in a completely different way, an official familiar with the plan said. These are long-term projects and must have defined goals. Once the mechanism is in place, archaeological work, excavations or museum projects will continue seamlessly, and the scope can be expanded or reduced as needed. A key focus of the overhaul is fixing the weak link that has plagued ASI for decades, the preparation and publication of excavation reports. In several cases, findings have not been submitted to ASI headquarters for years after fieldwork ended. To address this, ASI plans to enforce firm deadlines. Excavators have been told to submit a primary report within three months of completing fieldwork, supported by fortnightly updates. Analytical components that require laboratory testing can follow later. Annual reports, officials said, must also be filed on schedule and full project reports completed within three years. The Survey currently has over 20 active excavation sites, supported by six dedicated excavation branches in Nagpur, Delhi, Patna, Bhubaneswar, Vadodara and Mysore. Recent work includes the fortified ancient city at Vadnagar in Gujarat, Rakhigarhi in Haryana, and Hastinapur in Uttar Pradesh. To avoid the chronic post-fieldwork gaps that slow down documentation, excavation teams will now be required to remain on site for additional days after digging concludes. Surveyors, archaeologists, photographers, they come from different units. Once they disperse, coordination becomes difficult. The team must stay together to finish preliminary records and compile the basic report, an official said. Between 2014 and 2024, the Modi government allocated Rs 9,652 crore to ASI, including Rs 63.27 crore specifically for excavations. Major digs during this period, Rakhigarhi in Haryana, Sinauli in Uttar Pradesh, Keezhadi in Tamil Nadu, remain without published official reports. Excavators have presented findings at conferences and in interviews, but the formal documentation is still absent. In 2023, ASI told a Rajya Sabha standing committee it had received 11 reports from Bihar, Odisha, Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh, but all of them were still under vetting. The committee urged ASI to expedite the process and make the reports public. New mandate ASI has over 20 active excavation sites, supported by six dedicated branches. Excavators to submit a primary report within three months of completing fieldwork, supported by fortnightly updates. Excavation teams required to remain on site after digging concludes, to finish preliminary records and compile basic report. Annual reports to be filed on schedule and full project reports completed within 3 yrs. From 2014 to 2024, the Modi govt allocated Rs 9,652 cr to ASI, including Rs 63.27 cr for excavations.
Watch: New TB vaccine ready for commercialisation in India
India is moving closer to commercialising a new tuberculosis vaccine the HSP Subunit Vaccine in Adjuvant (DDA). Developed through joint research by IIT Bhubaneswar and ILS Bhubaneswar, the vaccine aims to improve protection against pulmonary TB, especially in older age groups. A licensing deal with TechInvention Lifecare signals a major step towards large-scale production.
New TB vaccine for adolescents, adults ready for commercialisation
Developed jointly by Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar and the Institute of Life Sciences (ILS), Bhubaneswar, the vaccine will help combat mycobacterium tuberculosis
President Murmu Visit: Odisha Deploys Four-Tier Security Grid
The Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Commissionerate Police has put in place a dedicated three-tier arrangement, supplemented by Presidents Bodyguard (PBG) commandos and other specialised units
Nearly 50k Anganwadi Workers Stage Protest in Bhubaneswar
The protesters are pressing for an 11-point charter of demands that includes higher salaries, monthly pensions, and recognition as government employees
Darjeeling Woman Critical After Boyfriend Slits Her Throat Near Buddha Park in Bhubaneswar
Chandrasekharpur police have arrested the accused and will produce him in court
Established under a strategic collaboration between Starbucks Coffee Company & Tata Starbucks, the FSP aims to empower 10,000 Indian coffee farmers by 2030 Starbucks will open its 500th coffeehouse in India this week in Delhi NCR a Starbucks Reserve location offering a premium and immersive coffee experience Reaffirming its long-term commitment to India, and its plans to deepen its coffee leadership in the market, Starbucks Coffee Company today announced the establishment of a Farmer Support Partnership (FSP). In collaboration with Tata Starbucks Private Limited, the FSP will connect local agronomists and farmers to global farming best practices through open-source agronomy. Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Starbucks re-affirm coffee leadership and announce a Farmer Support Partnership (FSP) to strengthen the coffee value chain from Bean to Cup Strengthening Indias coffee value chain from bean to cup Starbucks Coffee Trading Company, SARL (SCTC), Starbucks global procurement and trading subsidiary, will collaborate closely with Tata Starbucks to empower 10,000 farmers by 2030. The FSP based in Karnataka will combine Tata Starbucks deep local knowledge, Indias coffee-growing heritage, and decades of Starbucks global agronomy expertise. It will support farmers from Indias key coffee growing states including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala to strengthen connections with Starbucks global network, drive innovation, and share best practices in farming and sustainability to ensure a sustainable future for India coffee. The FSP will set up technical model farms in partnership with farmers in India, incorporating global learnings, to embed best practices in coffee agronomy and test sustainable solutions. The FSP in India will serve as a hub for testing new varietals, provide knowledge on innovative farming techniques aligned to Indian practices and conditions, and share insights about other agroforestry initiatives to improve coffee quality, productivity and climate resiliency. The goal is to build upon traditional methods to help farmers improve both the quality of their crops and their profitability. The FSP will work closely with existing centers of excellence within the Starbucks global network. This includes partnering with Farmer Support Centers (FSC) in coffee-growing regions around the world, where agronomists collaborate directly with farmers on research, and learning from existing model farms within Starbucks supply chain. This network includes FSCs in the APAC region in North Sumatra, Indonesia and Yunnan, China and Hacienda Alsacia in Costa Rica, Starbucks first company-operated coffee farm and headquarters to the Starbucks Costa Rica Farmer Support Center and Starbucks Global Research and Development team. Through the FSP, Indian farmers will also benefit from Starbucks 2026 global digital training tools, which will offer detailed online modules on agronomy, coffee quality, and C.A.F.E. (Coffee and Farmer Equity) practices to foster ethical sourcing and ultimately enhance productivity and sustainability. It will also educate farmers about Regen-Ag (regenerative agriculture) practices and methods to reduce carbon, water, and waste footprints, and contribute to agroforestry and social development initiatives. The FSP will develop projects across the key Starbucks commitments of unlocking coffee productivity, increasing farm profitability and building climate resiliency over the next 5 years. To build capability and strengthen Indias entire coffee value chain, Tata Starbucks will also donate one million high-yield variety Arabica seedlings to farmers over the next five years. During his visit to India this week, Brian Niccol, chairman and chief executive officer of Starbucks said, India is one of our fastest-growing markets. Were partnering with Tata to shape the future of coffee in India, including supporting farmers, empowering communities, and delivering the highest quality offerings to our customers. Its a long-term commitment to build a stronger, more sustainable coffee ecosystem that benefits everyone, from bean to cup . Sunil D'Souza, Managing Director & CEO at Tata Consumer Products said, Through the past decade, together, Tata Consumer Products and Starbucks, have helped shape Indias thriving coffee culture and industry. With this new initiative, we are pleased to pair Starbucks global agronomy expertise with Tatas footprint in India to drive tangible impact and pave the way for the future of responsible coffee farming in India . Re-affirming Starbucks coffee leadership through differentiated and elevated experiences Since its inception in 2012 as a joint venture between Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Consumer Products, Tata Starbucks has been dedicated to delivering the unique Starbucks Experience to customers in India. This has set the stage for Indias ever evolving and dynamic coffee culture. This week, Tata Starbucks will celebrate the opening of its 500th coffeehouse in India, marking a significant milestone in its growth journey and reaffirming its long-term commitment to the market. As one of Starbucks fastest-growing international markets, India remains central to the companys plans for strategic and sustainable expansion, with continued focus on job creation and meaningful development opportunities for its partners (employees). The 500th coffeehouse will be the second location to offer a Starbucks Reserve coffee experience in Delhi NCR, engaging coffee enthusiasts with an immersive experience that showcases Starbucks coffee craft, heritage, and storytelling. The coffeehouse and its Starbucks Reserve experience underscore Tata Starbucks commitment to elevating Indias coffee craftsmanship through elevated store design, handcrafted beverages, and locally inspired innovations. As part of the global strategy to make Starbucks a welcoming coffeehouse where people gather to enjoy the finest coffee handcrafted by skilled baristas, Tata Starbucks will continue to focus on creating a differentiated and elevated coffee forward experience in India. It invites customers to experience the full flavor profile it offers - serving the worlds finest coffee and elevated offerings in a welcoming coffeehouse environment that has made it a beloved part of Indias coffee landscape. Sushant Dash, chief executive officer of Tata Starbucks said, As the largest specialty coffee player in India, we are proud to bring the Farmer Support Partnership in collaboration with SCTC, a meaningful step toward strengthening Indias coffee-growing community and securing the future of high-quality Arabica. Our commitment to India extends beyond growth, to investing in farmers, partners (employees) and customers to continue building a vibrant coffee culture. We will continue to serve the finest Arabica coffee from India and around the world, brought to life through the warm, welcoming third place experience that defines Starbucks . About Starbucks Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with more than 40,000 stores worldwide, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at about.starbucks.com or starbucks.com . About Tata Starbucks Private Limited Starbucks entered the Indian market in October 2012 through a 50/50 Joint Venture with Tata Consumer Products Limited and currently operates more than 497 stores in India across 81 cities, Agra, Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Alibaug, Amritsar, Anand, Aurangabad, Bangalore, Bhatinda, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Calicut, Chandigarh, Chennai, Dehradun, Faridabad, Gandhinagar, Ghaziabad, Goa, Guntur, Gurgaon, Guwahati, Gwalior Haridwar, Hyderabad, Coimbatore, Indore, Jaipur, Jalandhar, Jodhpur, Kanpur, Kochi, Kolhapur, Kolkata, Lonavala, Lucknow, Ludhiana, Mangalore, Meerut, Mumbai, Mussoorie, Mysore, Nagpur, Nashik, New Delhi, Noida, Pathankot, Patiala, Pondicherry, Pune, Raipur, Siliguri, Sonipat, Surat, Thrissur, Trivandrum, Udaipur, Vadodara, Vapi, Varanasi, Vijayawada, Varanasi and Vizag are cities in India. through a network of over 4,437 passionate partners (employees). Starbucks stores are operated by the joint venture, Tata Starbucks Private Limited, and branded as Starbucks Coffee - A TATA Alliance.
Alliance Air, under the Government of India, connectssmaller cities and Tier-2 and Tier-3 towns to the main aviation network,bringing remote regions into India's aviation network. Building on this regional focus, the state-owned carrier introduced the Fare Se Fursat (One Route, One Fare) model last month, marking a significant step towards affordable, uniform ticketing across its routes. The initiative covers sectors such as Delhi-Shimla, Shimla-Dharamshala, Hisar-Chandigarh, Jabalpur-Jagdalpur, and Jalgaon-Ahmedabad, among others. These routes underscore the enduring significance of a public airline in connecting diverse geographies and fostering balanced regional development. Further connections such as Vidyanagar-Bengaluru, Kochi-Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar-Rourkela, and those in the northern and northeastern regions, including Guwahati-Aizawl, Imphal-Dimapur, and Jorhat-Tezu, demonstrate the airlines expanding network. By bringing previously unexplored destinations into focus, Alliance Air supports the governments effort to strengthen regional air connectivity. Meanwhile, the introduction of Fare Se Fursat reflects a well-structured measure to encourage domestic air travel and reinforce Indias aviation ecosystem. Industry experts view this model, launched under the broader framework of the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) regional connectivity programme, as a potential turning point for affordable and inclusive air travel nationwide. Jaideep Mirchandani, Group Chairman Sky One The purpose of aviation itself is to make air travel more people-oriented. One of the major concerns for passengers has always been the airfare. During peak seasons, they often have to pay higher prices, and when booking at short notice, they bear the impact of volatility. And if the state comes forward to address this concern, it is undoubtedly a positive step , ,said Jaideep Mirchandani, group chairman of Sky One . According to the official statement, Alliance Air will introduce a single fixed fare that remains unchanged, regardless of the booking date, even on the day of departure. This pilot initiative will be in effect from October 13 to December 31, 2025. Although it will initially apply only to selected routes, further decisions will be taken after assessing its operational feasibility and passenger response. The key question however is just who stands to benefit the most from this move? I think passengers who travel frequently between Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities will benefit the most. Alliance Air generally operates on short and medium routes under the UDAN scheme. Its fleet mainly consists of ATR 72-600 turboprop aircraft, which are suitable for smaller airports and can carry up to 72 passengers. The airline also operates a few ATR 42-600 aircraft with a capacity of 48 passengers and one Indian-made Dornier 228 aircraft that can accommodate 17 passengers. Naturally, this approach will make air travel more people-friendly, added Mr Mirchandani . The aviation expert says that measures related to fares and amenities, which may seem insignificant to high-net-worth individuals, hold great value for the common traveller. Without assigning blame, he points out that initiatives such as UDAN Yatri Cafes, offering tea for Rs 10, coffee for Rs 20, and snacks for Rs 20 at airports, can make a real difference to regular passengers. Gone are the days when air travel was seen as a privilege of the elite. It should be accessible to more people, ensuring dignity and affordability. We are now addressing one of the biggest concerns of passengers: airfare. I am curious to see howthis move will impact private airlines in the country after the pilot phase. It will be interesting to observe how they adapt and incorporate similar measures within their domestic realms , concluded Mr Mirchandani .
Renowned Odia singer Humane Sagar passed away at 34 after a brief illness at AIIMS Bhubaneswar. Known for his soulful voice, Sagar rose to fame after winning 'Voice of Odisha' and delivered numerous hit songs in Odia cinema. His demise has left a significant void in the state's music and film industry.
Focus on integrated care, supportive environment to battle diabetes: Experts
BHUBANESWAR, Nov 15: A renewed focus on integrated care, creation of a supportive environment at the workplace and proper health policies for all could bolster the battle against diabetes, experts said here on Friday. The problem today is that Type 2 diabetes is found in even school children who are found to be obese. The need is to intervene early as treating the diabetic persons alone will not help in this battle, Prof. (Dr.) Anoj Kumar Baliarsinha, former head of [] The post Focus on integrated care, supportive environment to battle diabetes: Experts appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Dr Jitendra launches Indias largest Phenome Study on World Diabetes Day eve
Bhubaneswar Conclave Excelsior Correspondent BHUBANESWAR, Nov 13: On the eve of World Diabetes Day tomorrow, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh today launched Phenome National Conclave on Longitudinal Cohort Studies : Cohort Connect 2025, at CSIR-IMMT, here. Cohort Connect is said to be Indias largest evidence based study on Genetic, Lifestyle and Environmental drivers of Disease. Delivering the inaugural address, Dr. Jitendra Singh [] The post Dr Jitendra launches Indias largest Phenome Study on World Diabetes Day eve appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Bhubaneswar to host inaugural National Indoor Athletics Cships
New Delhi, Nov 11: The inaugural edition of the National Indoor Athletics Championships will be held in Bhubaneswar in January, the national federation said on Tuesday. The state-of-the-art facility at Kalinga Stadium Complex in the Odisha capital will host the event, though the exact date is yet to be decided. The National Indoor Championships was []
PMGSY AEE Irfan Parray re-elected to IRCs GC
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 9: In a proud moment for Jammu and Kashmir, Irfan Shafi Parray, Assistant Executive Engineer (AEE) in PMGSY PIU Baramulla, has been re-elected as a member of the General Council (GC) of the Indian Road Congress (IRC). The elections were held during the 84th annual session of the IRC in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, where 24 candidates from across India contested for 10 seats. Parray secured the fifth rank in the keenly fought election. He has been a [] The post PMGSY AEE Irfan Parray re-elected to IRCs GC appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
BHUBANESWAR: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Friday urged the road engineers and project heads to focus on quality and future-ready detailed project reports (DPRs) and fast-track decision making to make Indias road network No.1 in the world. Taking a potshot at the age-old bad practice of awarding the lowest quotation for DPRs, the minister asked when people need heart surgery, do they float a tender and go to the doctor who is the cheapest? If you need a good restaurant for quality food, why do you go to a substandard agency to get the DPRs prepared? DPR is the backbone of a project and it must be perfect to ensure quality, he said while inaugurating the 84th Indian Roads Congress (IRC) at Janata Maidan here. As per the usual practice, Gadkari said, the DPRs are prepared by those who quoted the lowest in the bid and there is no technical examination of these reports before the tenders are floated. Mandatory reports related to the construction are not signed for years and contractors are made to work. When they get exhausted after running from pillar to post to get their bills paid and their working capital is drained out, they are rejected. This should not happen. We need to change such practices and procedures that are creating hurdles in the progress. Perfect DPRs will also help curb road fatalities, he said. The Union minister emphasised that performance audit is more important than financial audit. The economic growth rate of the country has increased due to the ever expanding road network. It will exceed further if the system works in tandem with a focus on transparency and commitment to meet the project timelines. Road engineers hold a pivotal role in the transformation. From DPRs to designing hassle-free and safety-assured highways, their technical precision determines the quality of the infrastructure, he said. Quoting American President John F Kennedy who once said American roads are not good because America is rich, but America is rich because American roads are good, Gadkari observed that trade, business and industry flourish where roads are built and capital investment comes where industries are encouraged. Accordingly, employment is generated where capital investments come and development takes place where there is no dearth of employment, he said. Acknowledging IRCs 90 years of experience of preparing guidelines, setting standards and design practices, the highways minister urged the apex body of engineers to make it a full-fledged professional organisation with global benchmark. The government will support in this endeavour. There is no dearth of money and resources. The problem lies in expenditure. A fast-track decision-making process is the need of the hour if we want to make our country an economic powerhouse of the world, he said. India is the fastest growing economy and to make it the third largest economy in the world, Gadkari said, the country needs to have world standard infrastructures like road, water, power, communication and transportation. The use of bio-bitumen and recycled plastic waste in highway construction will further enhance durability, sustainability and cost efficiency, aligning with the vision of eco-conscious development, he maintained. Our mission is to create world-class infrastructure founded on innovation and sustainable practices. Trust should be on to ensure 100 per cent quality and a plan to reduce the construction cost. A lot of waste material is available and we need to have a policy through which we can use the waste materials. IRC is the soul of India's running engineering. We need ownership, a serious approach, commitment to quality and transparency and a corruption free system, he said and urged engineers to prepare a new futuristic vision to achieve the goal of a developed India by 2047. Expressing concern over rising road fatalities, the Union minister asked road engineers for better planning and becoming sensitive towards road safety. Road accidents are claiming 1.8 lakh lives every year. Your ownership, your initiative and correct road engineering can save lives. The focus must be on identifying the black spots and rectifying them. Those who design roads should first make them friendly for the users. The road geometry has to be improved, he said and advised engineers not to always look at their bosses and listen to what they say. If your conscience tells you that this should be rectified or done, go and tell at the highest level. You must also take responsibility for the change, he added. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said the road density in Odisha is less than the national average and urged Gadkari to sanction more projects keeping in mind the state's vision for a Vikasita Odisha @ 2036. He thanked the minister for the approval of road projects worth around Rs 13,000 crore earlier this year. Minister for Works, Law and Excise Prithiviraj Harichandan, chief secretary Manoj Ahuja, IRC president Prof Manoranjan Parida, principal secretary of Works Sanjay Kumar Singh and organising secretary Manas Ranjan Behera also spoke.
India transitioning from fuel importer to exporter: Gadkari
BHUBANESWAR, Nov 7: India is moving from being a fuel-importing to a fuel-exporting nation, driven by the growing production and use of ethanol, methanol, bio-LNG, CNG, and green hydrogen, union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari said on Friday. Addressing the 84th Annual Session of the Indian Roads Congress (IRC) here, Gadkari emphasized the Governments strong commitment to road safety through advanced engineering standards, intelligent transport systems, and awareness initiatives to ensure safer and more efficient mobility. Highlighting [] The post India transitioning from fuel importer to exporter: Gadkari appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Senior Citizen Digitally Arrested, Duped of Rs 1.5 Crore by Cyber Fraudsters in Bhubaneswar
The fraudsters reportedly made the victim transfer Rs 70 lakh in the first phase and another Rs 80 lakh later, draining a total of Rs 1.5 crore from his accounts.
Researchers find potential neurotoxin in Cycad plant used as food in Odisha
Medical scientists have detected the neurotoxin BMAA in Odisha's Cycad plants, raising concerns as locals consume these products. Research is underway by AIIMS Bhubaneswar to determine if this consumption directly links to neurological diseases, following similar global findings in regions with traditional Cycad diets.
Bhubaneswar woman fakes gunfire, bombs her own house to get gun licence, now absconding
A Bhubaneswar woman entrepreneur allegedly staged gunfire and a bomb explosion at her home to secure a gun license. Ghunguru Misra, now absconding, is accused of orchestrating the fake attacks with three arrested associates. The plot aimed to create a life-threatening scenario to expedite her firearm license application.
AIIMS Bhubaneswar Launches Pioneering Research on Cycad Toxicology amid Concerns
As part of the study, experts visited Dhuannali village in Khordha district and Gangamunda and Suaginali in Dhenkanal district, where tribal populations continue to consume Cycas (locally known as Veru or Aruguna) as a food staple. Researchers interacted with villagers and health workers to assess potential neurological symptoms and local awareness levels.
Former BJD MP Amar Patnaik joins BJP in the presence of Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi
BHUBANESWAR: In a major setback to Biju Janata Dal (BJD), ahead of the by-election in Nuapada, its former Rajya Sabha member Amar Patnaik joined the BJP in the presence of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and state president Manmohan Samal on Monday. This comes as a strategic move to demoralise BJD and send a message to the people of the state, especially Nuapada voters, that the regional party is crumbling. The BJP leadership chose this day to embrace Amar Patnaik as the BJD president, and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has launched a campaign for the party's candidate Snehangini Chhuria from Komna block of Nuapada district. Welcoming Patnaik into the BJP, the chief minister said the day was significant since it was the last Monday of the holy month of Kartika, and Naveen Babu is in Nuapada for campaigning. ''Amar Babu's next move is to campaign for the party in Nuapada, he said. Majhi further said that Amar Patnaik has freed himself from an atmosphere of political suffocation within the BJD. Inspired by the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he joined the BJP. I joined the BJP to serve the nation. I quit my government job in 2018 and became an MP in 2019. So long, I have worked for the development of the State, and now the time has come to dedicate myself to nation-building, Patnaik said. During his stint in BJD, Patnaik also served as the IT cell chief of the regional party.
NEW DELHI: Complying with earlier directions, the Chief Secretaries of States and Union Territories appeared before the SC and tendered an 'unconditional apology' for not filing a compliance affidavit on the menace of stray dog bites. Taking into record the appearance of the Chief Secretaries, athree-judge special bench of the apex court, headed by Justice Vikram Nath, comprising Justice Sandeep Mehta and Justice N V Anjaria, said it will pass appropriate directions on November 7 in the case. Apart from recording the appearance and affidavits, we will also be issuing a few directions with respect to institutional menace -- the employees supporting and feeding the dogs in government institutions, public sector institutions and other institutions. We will definitely be issuing directions, said the top court. During the course of a brief hearing, the top court impleaded the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) as a respondent in the case. It also clarified that Senior Advocate Guarav Agarwal will continue as the amicus curiae to assist in the matter. In its last hearing on October 31, the SC had refused to allow the request of Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta seeking personal exemption of physical appearance of Chief Secretaries of States and Union Territories in the case, remarking let them come. Stray dogs case: No respect for court's order; chief secretaries to appear physically, says SC During the hearing on Friday, the bench had said that there was no respect for the order of the court, as it made itclear that the chief secretaries will have to appear physically before the court on November 3 in thestray dogsmenace case. The top court had even rejected the plea of SG Mehta, who requested a direction from the court for the Chief Secretaries to appear through the video conferencing mode in the case. Sorry, they have to come physically to the court, the court added. The court had also pointed out that, we asked them (State Chief Secretaries) why no compliance affidavit had been filed, but they were seeking personal exemption. Your officers don't read newspapers? They don't read social media? Do they want a formal notice to be issued to them? the bench, led by Justice Nath, had said. Jammu and Kashmir grapples with canine threat, nearly 150 stray dog bite cases reported every day Bihar and many other states allegedly failed to file the compliance affidavit in the case, following which, the top court decided to direct Chief Secretaries for their personal presence on November 3. It said all chief secretaries, except those of Telangana and West Bengal, should be present before it on November 3. Otherwise, we will hold the court in the auditorium, it had said. The court had, on August 22, reversed its earlier order directing the authorities to move allstray dogsto shelters and said that they can be released to the same area from where they were captured after proper sterilisation and immunisation, exempting dogs infected with rabies or exhibiting aggressive behaviour. It also barred the feeding of thedogsin public places, too. The August 22 order expanded the scope of thestray dogscase beyond the Delhi NCR and directed that all states and Union Territories be made parties in the matter, and instructed them to file a compliance affidavit. 47,000 stray dogs in Bhubaneswar, triple the national average: Census
