Miffed At Being Denied Ticket, Mohan Hembram Quits Congress
Bhubaneswar: Mohan Hembram resigned from primary membership of Congress after the party replaces him, after giving ticket, with a new candidate for Keonjhar Lok Sabha seat. The decision of AICC has embarrassed us. Why did the party give me ticket if I was not competent enough? I will move court if I am not returned [] The post Miffed At Being Denied Ticket, Mohan Hembram Quits Congress appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Odisha Govt Aided School Students To Receive Iron, Folic Acid Tablets During Summer Vacation
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has decided to provide students of all government and government-aided schools with iron and folic acid (IFA) tablets during the ongoing summer vacation under the Anemia Mukta Lakhsya Abhiyan (AMLAN). According to a notification issued by the School and Mass Education (S&ME) Department, the students of Class 1 to 12 of [] The post Odisha Govt Aided School Students To Receive Iron, Folic Acid Tablets During Summer Vacation appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Odisha: Man gets death sentence in double murder case
Odisha: Man gets death sentence in double murder case Bhubaneswar: A court in Odishas Nayagarh district on Friday sentenced a person to death for killing two persons including an elderly woman in Odagaon area of the district in 2019. The convict was identified as Niranjan Mallik of Kushadhipa village in Nayagarh district. Niranjan, who was [] The post Odisha: Man gets death sentence in double murder case appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
RD students protest over 4th sem exams
Bhubaneswar: Raising concerns over the prevailing extreme heatwave conditions in the city, UG students of Rama Devi Womens University staged a protest in front of the university gate demanding the postponement of fourth-semester exams Friday. The state government announced early summer vacation in schools across the state recently due to intense heat. Then how can []
Triangular fight on cards for Bhubaneswar LS seat
Bhubaneswar: The political battle to win the General Election 2024 has begun and Odisha will join the epic contest in four phases starting May 13, 2024. The Bhubaneswar Lok Sabha constituency is among the 21 in the state where voting will take place in the coming days. The prestigious Capital City LS seat will witness []
Beer takes over hard liquor as mercury soars in Odisha
BHUBANESWAR: Heat or no heat, tipplers always find a way out to get high. With Odisha in the grip of a severe heatwave, the demand for beer has gone up considerably in the state. Attributing the jump in sales to soaring temperature, the Excise department said around 19.65 lakh cartons of beer have been sold between April 1 and 25. Each box contains 24 beer cans or as many bottles (500 ml can and 650 ml bottle). Around 13.61 lakh cartons of beer were sold between April 1 and 25 in 2023 and this year beer sales have registered a growth of around 44.37 per cent during the period. The sale of beer registered a growth in the month of March too. Around 26.22 lakh boxes of beer were sold in March this year as compared to 21.31 lakh boxes in the corresponding period of last year registering a growth of 23 per cent. Interestingly, beer sales normally register a growth of 26 per cent to 27 per cent in the month of April but this year the jump is quite significant. Longer heatwave spells and persistent hot weather has possibly shot up the sales of beer this April, said a senior official. Booze lovers said they are opting for beer as the prevailing weather is making them feel quite uncomfortable. Even the evenings are warmer than ever. I prefer chilled beer to beat the heat, said a working professional Sandeep Dwivedy. On the other hand, Excise department sources said, though the state is going through one of the longest heatwave spells in recent years, the demand for Indian made foreign liquor (IMFL) is not very high. Around 10.49 lakh boxes of IMFL were sold in March this year against 9.47 lakh boxes during the corresponding period last year. Similarly, around 3.42 lakh boxes of IMFL were sold between April 1 and 25 this year compared to 3.38 lakh boxes during the same period last year. Meanwhile, Excise department said it has registered a growth in revenue during financial year 2023-2024 against 2022-2023. The department generated revenue of around Rs 10,160 crore during financial year 2023-2024. It recorded a marginal growth of one per cent in revenue through sale of IMFL, 26 per cent growth in revenue in beer sale and around 15 per cent growth in revenue in country liquor sale. Hic! Wheres the bottle? 19.65 lakh cartons of beer sold between April 1 and 25 44.37 pc growth registered during the period 26.22 lakh boxes of beer sold in March this year
Odisha: Rama Devi college students stage stir over examination
BHUBANESWAR: Students protests over holding of examinations were witnessed at two higher educational institutions on Friday. At Rama Devi Womens University in capital city, students demanded postponement of Plus III second year examination owing to the prevailing heatwave condition. The examination is scheduled to be held from April 30. Staging a demonstration outside the university, the students said travelling to the campus at the peak hours and appearing the examination will not be possible on their part. Similarly, those residing in university hostels alleged the rooms are not well ventilated which makes living in them difficult during summer. Taking up the issue with the vice-chancellor, the students demanded the examination be held any day after the summer vacation. Similar agitation was seen at the Dhenkanal Womens College where students demanded postponement of the semester examinations after the summer vacation. For the 2024-25 academic session, the Higher Education department has notified summer vacation from May 4 to June 17.
Harsh weather to aggravate in Odisha, says IMD
BHUBANESWAR: Even as Odisha continues to be in the grip of a severe heatwave, Angul recorded 44.6 degree Celsius becoming the fourth hottest place in Asia on Friday. The day temperature in the district was above normal by 4.4 degree C. At least 32 places recorded 40 degree C or more with Angul reporting the maxiumum temperature in the state. Boudh sizzled at 44.5 degree C and Nuapada and Balangir recorded 44 degree C each. Bhubaneswar and Cuttack recorded 40.5 degree C and 40.8 degree C respectively. Districts like Mayurbhanj, Nuapada, Boudh, Nabarangpur, Ganjam, Khurda, Deogarh and Kendrapara also witnessed heatwave condition on the day. The harsh weather is expected to aggravate further with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting a rise in maximum temperature by 2 degree C in the state within 48 hours. While the maximum (day) temperature is likely to remain above normal by 4 degree C to 6 degree C in some districts of Odisha during next four to five days, the regional Met office requested citizens to take adequate precautions while venturing outside between 11 am and 3 pm. In the next 48 hours, some places may record a further rise in day temperature by 2 degree C. A few districts are expected to experience severe heatwave condition during the next four to five days, said Bhubaneswar Meteorological Centre scientist, Umasankar Das. Heatwave to severe heatwave condition is likely to prevail in Kendrapara, Bhadrak, Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Jharsuguda, Sundargarh, Keonjhar, Dhenkanal, Boudh, Nuapada and Angul districts on Saturday. Similarly, heatwave is expected in Cuttack, Khurda and 15 other districts during the period. The maximum temperature in the capital city is expected to hover around 42 degree C on Saturday. A few places in Puri, Khurda and four other districts may, however, receive temporary respite as there is a possibility of light to moderate rainfall and thundershower activity on Saturday.
PhD applications plummet in premier research institute Institute of Life Sciences
BHUBANESWAR: One of Indias premier research organisations, Institute of Life Sciences (ILS), Bhubaneswar is not getting enough PhD scholars it requires to carry out various research and development activities. The number of applicants has drastically dropped from around 258 in 2022 to 88 this year leaving many scientists and researchers worried. Several scholars, who get selected after a rigorous process either do not join or leave their research halfway. One of the 17 national institutions run by the Department of Biotechnology, ILS is known for its studies on infectious disease biology, cancer research and plant and microbial biotechnology. The institute has been a part of the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), a multi-agency, pan-India network to monitor genomic variations in the novel coronavirus and carrying out genomic surveillance activities for states, including Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra. Although PhD scholars are the main workforce who drive the R&D activities at ILS, the declining number of applicants and selected candidates have become a cause of concern. The institute had received over 250 applications each during the Covid pandemic period in 2020 and 2021. It is a concern for us as the applicants are declining, said a scientist. The phenomenon of dwindling PhD applications is not limited to one specific field and spans across core areas including infectious diseases, cancer biology, genetic and autoimmune disorders besides plant and microbial biotechnology. The situation was so precarious that the institute had received only 27 applications till the last date this session and the applicants went up to 88 only after the deadline was extended. The selection procedure has also come under scrutiny with many applicants flagging irregularities and questionable allocation of guides to prospective scholars. While only 49 applicants have been shortlisted this year, some meritorious students who have scored high and secured higher ranks have not been given the opportunity to work with the guides of their choice. They alleged that some candidates with lower ranks have been preferred.The selection and guide allocation are non-transparent and questionable. Apparently, malpractices during the PhD candidate selection has become a norm for last couple of years leading to disillusionment among hopeful scholars, alleged an aspirant. Sources said PhD candidates are at the mercy of guides and sometimes are subjected to harassment. A scholar had reportedly attempted to harm herself due to torture by a guide a few months back while another allegation is under investigation, sources added. ILS director Debasis Dash said the applicants in 2022 were high due to backlogs of previous year. The institute is one of the preferred organisations for PhD scholars. After Covid period many scholars moved out of the country and it may have impacted, he said. Dash, however, refuted allegations of irregularity in selection procedure. Students and guide selection is a matrix and students always have the first choice. Sometimes they leave if they do not get the guide of their choice, he added.
KIMS surgeons remove two kg tumour without opening chest
BHUBANESWAR: Surgeons at KIMS Cancer Centre achieved a remarkable feat by successfully operating on a young man with an unusually large left-sided massive two-kg diaphragmatic tumour, marking a significant milestone in surgical oncology. The team led by surgical oncologist Dr Sabyasachi Parida removed the tumour, which measured approximately 24x17 cm, from the diaphragm without opening the chest. The exceptional case, where the tumour hindered the patients ability to consume solid food, presented unique challenges for the surgeons. Usually, accessing such tumours requires invasive procedures, including opening both the abdomen and chest, often causing considerable discomfort for patients. However, Dr Paridas innovative approach avoided the need for a chest incision or a chest drain, significantly reducing post-operative pain and shortening the patients recovery process. The team executed a meticulous dissection utilising the state-of-the-art equipment and modern modular operating theatre at KIMS ensuring the safety and well-being of the patient. The six-hour procedure concluded without intra-operative complications or the need for blood transfusion. We reconstructed the large diaphragmatic defect after the successful excision of the tumour. The patient recovered swiftly without the need for intensive care or respiratory support, said Dr Parida. The surgical team comprised consultant anaesthetist Dr Monika Dabgotra and technician Bibhas Prasad Barik besides OT support staff and nursing officers.
Harshpriya Neelachala announces Solitaire real estate project
BHUBANESWAR: Harshpriya Neelachala, a collaboration between Harshpriya Group and Neelachala Homes, announced Solitaire, a landmark luxury real-estate project at Khandagiri on Friday. The proposed project, a 21-storey high-rise tower, featuring 192 upscale residential units alongside essential commercial spaces, all designed with sustainable practices and modern architectural insights has been planned at Khandagiri square to provide convenient access coupled with serene living spaces to home buyers in the city. The project is set to transform luxury living in the region. Adjacent to BPCL Petrol Pump, NH 16, near Khandagiri Square, Bhubaneswar the 21 storey single tower will have both residential and commercial spaces. Air-conditioned rooms, Club Crown recreational spaces on the 21st and 22nd floors, rooftop infinity-edge swimming pool, and over 30 luxurious sky amenities will be special features of the project. Residents will also enjoy a rooftop infinity pool, multiple leisure and fitness facilities, including a modern gym, yoga lawn, and more, providing an unparalleled living experience, said the project developers. We are delighted to present Solitaire, a true reflection of luxury and innovation in Bhubaneswar. Our goal with Solitaire is not just to meet but to exceed the expectations of contemporary homeowners, offering them a blend of comfort, elegance, and state-of-the-art amenities, said managing director of Harshpriya Group Chetan Kumar Tekariwal. Solitaire stands out with its dual-basement parking, eco-friendly construction, and a plethora of amenities tailored to enhance the living experience,said managing director of Neelachala Homes Golak Bihari Satapathy.
Odisha Human Rights Commission summons State, Centre, NHAI on NH-55 fatalities
BHUBANESWAR: The Odisha Human Rights Commission (OHRC) on Friday summoned the state government, Centre, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and NH project director of Sambalpur in connection with road accident deaths on Cuttack-Sambalpur NH-55. Acting on a petition filed by lawyer Shivsankar Mohanty, the human rights panel asked the principal secretary of Works department, secretary of Union Road Transport and Highways and NHAI authorities to submit their response before the next hearing in July. In his petition, Mohanty drew the attention of the panel towards rise in road accidents and fatalities on NH-55 due to haphazard constructions and its deplorable condition. An alarming 401 accidents took place on the highway in 2023 in which 186 people died, he said. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways had decided to expand the 265-km highway to four-lane in 2005. The expansion work that started 12 years late in 2017 is yet to be completed despite several deadlines being missed. The four-laning work was to be finished by September, 2020. The NH-55 passes through Angul and NH-53 through Kaniha and Talcher while NH-149 connects Banrapal to Pallahara. These highways have turned into death trap due to lack of repairs. Road accidents have become a regular affair on several stretches, the petition stated. Citing several high courts have already held that roads without potholes are a fundamental right of citizens under Article 21 of the Constitution, the petitioner alleged, the condition of NH-55 relates to negligence on the part of the respondents to provide safe road communication. As per sections 4 and 5 of The National Highways Act, 1956 read with section 16 of the NHAI Act, 1988 there is no doubt NHAI is responsible for the maintenance of the highway, including the stretch on NH-55 on which the accidents occurred during expansion work, Mohanty said while demanding adequate compensation for the kin of those who lost their lives in accidents.
Anvesh of DAV CS Pur tops JEE Main session-II in Odisha
BHUBANESWAR: City boy Anvesh Subham Pradhan, a Pradhan Mantri Bal Puraskar recipient, with 99.99 percentile has emerged as the state topper in JEE (Main) session-II, the results of which were declared by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on Thursday. The DAV Public School, Chandrasekharpur student had also secured 99.93 percentile in JEE (Main) session-I. With declaration of the JEE results, a total of 118 students of DAV Public School, Chandrasekharpur have qualified for the JEE Advanced, scheduled on May 26. Out of the qualifiers, 16 students have scored more than 99 percentile and 32 more than 98 percentile. A number of students from the schools own managed SUPER-40 programme have been enlisted in the elite list, school officials said. Regional director of DAV Institutions, Odisha KC Satapathy, principal of the school Sujata Sahu and others congratulated Anvesh and other qualifiers for their phenomenal success and wished them for JEE Advanced.
BJP's Samir Mohanty cries conspiracy over Odisha CMs nomination, BJD says wait till June 4
BHUBANESWAR: Reiterating Union Home Minister Amit Shahs statement at a meeting of party functionaries, former state president of BJP Samir Mohanty on Friday said by contesting from two Assembly segments in the ensuing elections, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik wants to leave one for his political successor. Addressing a media conference here, Mohanty said, The chief minister plans to vacate one of the two seats after the elections so that VK Pandian can contest from there. It will help the chief minister announce Pandian as his successor later. Mohanty said Pandian is in the list of star campaigners of BJD. He is the number two in the regional party after the chief minister. Voting for BJD means the path for Pandian to take over the administration is being cleared. But the people of Odisha already know the plans of the chief minister and would never allow this to happen, he said. The BJP leader said people of Odisha have not forgotten the manner in which democracy was killed in the state in the name of 5T. People will give a fitting reply to BJD for the ill-treatment meted out to ministers, MPs and MLAs, he said. Strongly countering Mohantys statement, BJD Rajya Sabha member and spokesperson Sulata Deo told mediapersons here it is a figment of imagination of BJP leaders. She alleged the statement read by Mohanty was produced by the fake news factory of BJP. BJPs Odisha leaders always make such baseless allegations whenever they realise they are going to lose the elections. Deo said the 2024 elections will be a repeat of 2019 and it seems BJP leaders have got an inkling of it because of which they are unable to think logically. Mohanty is yet to get over the drubbing that the BJP suffered during his stint as the party president in the panchayat elections, she added.
Fight for Odia pride, self-respect, independence: Dharmendra Pradhan
BHUBANESWAR/ANGUL: Launching a scathing attack on the ruling BJD, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Friday said that the ensuing election is going to be fought between Odia pride and slave mentality. Addressing voters during campaigning at Chhendipada and Angul, Pradhan said many people want to be slave in an inactive and inefficient government which lasted for 25 years. But I do not like to be a slave, he said and added that there has been no development in Odisha in 25 years. Calling the BJD government inefficient and responsible for lack of any development in the state, Pradhan alleged that non-Odia government servants have conspired to loot the state. This election will be against those who want to loot Odisha. It is fight for Odia pride, self-respect and independence, he said. The union minister said political persons have been ignored in the BJD government. He criticised the government for its all round failure and said there is no drinking water facility in villages, no doctor in hospitals, schools also have no teachers and thousands migrate to other states for jobs. But the state government and BJD leaders claim they are always working for development, he added. Pradhan who is BJPs Sambalpur Lok Sabha seat candidate said the popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is growing in the country and there is Modi wave in Odisha. With the blessings of Lord Jagannath, BJP will form government and take the state on the path development. He urged people to vote for BJP to protect Odia culture, language and pride. The union minister also participated in rallies at Angul and Chhendipada. He also attended a mishrana parba event where local BJD leader Ashok Pradhan joined BJP accompanied by more than 2,000 workers.
Close shave for 50 passengers as bus catches fire in Odisha, escape unhurt
DHENKANAL: Around 50 passengers had a close shave when the bus they were travelling in caught fire on National Highway-55 on Friday. Sources said the bus was en route to Bhubaneswar from Angul when the driver noticed fire emanating from the vehicle near the bypass road. Soon after, passengers were alerted and asked to vacate the bus. On being informed, fire tenders from Dhenkanal reached the spot and began dousing the blaze but by that time, the bus was completely burnt. Police reached the spot and launched an investigation. Additional SP Suryamani Pradhan said it is likely the tyres got burnt due to excessive heat leading to the mishap. Though the vehicle was reduced to ashes, no one was hurt in the incident. Traffic was disrupted on the route for some time but normalcy was restores after police intervention, he said.
A close finish expected between BJD and BJP candidates in Odisha's Jagatsinghpur
BHUBANESWAR: The Jagatsinghpur Lok Sabha constituency has transitioned from a Congress stronghold to a BJD bastion over the last two decades with the BJP never being able to manage a foothold in the seat. However, despite winning the Lok Sabha seat and all the seven Assembly segments under it in 2019, and polling over 50 per cent of the votes in 2014 and 2019, there seems to be a sense of unease in the BJD camp this time. Though the party has repeated the sitting MP Rajashree Mallick, it has changed candidates in four out of the seven Assembly segments. Those who have been dropped include two former ministers Samir Dash from Nimapara and Raghunandan Das from Balikuda-Erasama. The party has also replaced Sambit Routray with wife Gitanjali Routray from Paradip Asembly segment. The BJP has also renominated Bibhu Prasad Tarai from the seat. Tarai, a former CPI MP from the seat, had polled over 3.48 lakh votes in 2019. Interestingly, Tarai had contested the 2014 election as a Congress candidate from the seat and also polled 3.48 lakh votes. Besides, he had also won the seat on a CPI ticket in 2009. This has proved that besides party affiliations, Tarai also has some sort of a personal vote bank in the area. BJP sources maintained that this was the reason why the saffron party nominated Tarai for the second time. The party expects a close finish in the ensuing election. The BJD on its part has also taken steps to bolster the party position in the seat by inducting former state working president of the Congress Chiranjeev Biswal and appointing him election coordinator for the seat. Besides, it has also inducted Monideepa Sarkhel, wife of Bapi Sarkhel to the party. A large number of local Congress leaders have also joined the ruling party in the recent days. Sources in the BJD said that induction of these leaders was aimed to broaden the partys support base further and minimise the negative impact from the Assembly segments. Though it dropped Sambit Routray from Paradip, his wife Gitanjali was nominated as the party did not want to upset the support base of Damodar Rout family. The veteran leader had passed away recently and the party did not wish to go against the sympathy factor. Observers, however, believe that BJD candidate will have to counter the anti-incumbency factor against the regional outfit which is in power at all levels in the district including a majority of panchayats. While the party has taken enough precautions to tide over such an eventuality, a senior BJD leader confided that the situation is different this time as a groundswell of support for the BJP can be sensed from the popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the area. It remains to be seen how far the BJP can challenge the BJDs organisational strength in the seat. The Congress has also fielded a veteran leader and former minister Rabindra Kumar Sethy from the seat. Sethy had contested from the LS seat in a Congress ticket unsuccessfully in 2009 and had polled 3.8 lakh votes. Sethys performance in this election will be key to the fortunes of both the BJD and BJP, sources said.
Nomination filing for phase II polls in Odisha kicks off
BHUBANESWAR: The nomination filing process for the second phase of general elections to five Lok Sabha constituencies and 35 Assembly segments in the state commenced on Friday. As per the notification of the Election Commission of India (ECI), Bargarh, Sundargarh, Balangir, Kandhamal, and Aska Lok Sabha constituencies and their 35 Assembly segments will go to polls in the second phase on May 20. Nomination filing for the phase will continue till May 3, while the papers will be scrutinised on May 4. Candidates will be able to withdraw their nominations till May 6. ECI representatives in the state said a total of 79.62 lakh voters including 40.30 lakh males and 39.31 lakh females will exercise their franchise during the phase. The usual voting timing for simultaneous polls in the seats is 7 am to 6 pm. However, keeping in view of security, the timing of voting in booths of some of the constituencies will be adjusted, sources said. In order to ensure a free and fair elections, the ECI has already mobilised resources to check model code of conduct violation and other norms in the Lok Sabha seats and their Assembly segments. Around Rs 46 crore cash has been seized during different searches in all the constituencies since March 1. Nomination filing for the first phase General Elections to four Lok Sabha constituencies - Koraput, Kalahandi, Nabarangpur and Berhampur - and their 28 Assembly segments is already over. ECI officials said a total of 75 nomination papers have been received from 39 candidates for the four Lok Sabha seats, while 483 nomination papers have been received from 266 candidates in 28 Assembly seats. The scrutiny of nominations were taken up on Friday, while the last date for withdrawal of nomination papers for the candidates is April 29.
4k rickshaw pullers may hold key to Kantabanji contest
Man gets death sentence for killing 2 in Nayagarh
BJP questions Naveens 2-seat plan; party wary of defeat: BJD
Chopper carrying Pandian searched
Nadda, Rahul to campaign tomorrow
BJPs Pujari files nominations sans rally
Pandian, Pradhan target each other during rallies
Man, son killed in Sundargarh accident
After quitting BJD, Soro MLA Dhada joins BJP
RD Womens univ postpones 4th sem exam
Anti-Maoist ops intensified in Boudh
Angul town hottest in country at 44.6C
Three criminals arrested in silk city
Trio held for starting forest fire to hunt animals in Kmal
Bhubaneswar: After the sudden demise of MLA Bijay Ranjan Singh Bariha necessitated by-elections in the Padmapur assembly constituency in Bargarh district, the biggest demand of the residents was district status to Padmapur. While the matter was gathering dust for years, BJD minister and Titilagarh MLA candidate Tukuni Sahu again raked up the issue while speaking [] The post Would have resigned if Padmapur was granted district status and Titilagarh not, says Minister Tukuni Sahu appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Odisha Transport Commissioner Reviews Vehicle Requisition Process For General Elections
Bhubaneswar: The State Transport Department is diligently adhering to all directives of the Chief Election Commissioner for the smooth conduct of the general elections. To ensure the same timely deployment of vehicles assigned for election purposes, the department prioritises meticulous planning and rectification of any shortcomings in the vehicle arrangement system. Today, a review meeting [] The post Odisha Transport Commissioner Reviews Vehicle Requisition Process For General Elections appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Rahul Gandhi to Visit Odisha on 28 April Ahead of Elections
Bhubaneswar: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is scheduled to visit Odisha on Sunday, 28 April to address rallies and campaign for party candidates ahead of upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. He will kick start the campaign programs from Salepur. As per reports, Rahul will first visit Satybhamapur of Salepur to offer tribute to Utkal Gourab [] The post Rahul Gandhi to Visit Odisha on 28 April Ahead of Elections appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
NHRC issues notices to chief secretaries of Odisha, CG in boat tragedy issue
Rahul, Nadda to address poll rallies in Odisha on Sunday
Bhubaneswar: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and BJP president JP Nadda will address election rallies in different parts of Odisha April 28. Rahul Gandhi will address a public meeting at Salepur in Cuttack district, and also visit Satyabhamapur to pay tributes to Utkal Gourav Madhusudan Das, AICC general secretary and the partys Odisha in-charge Ajoy Kumar []
Odisha BJP suspects BJD planning Pandians backdoor entry to Assembly
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha BJP Friday alleged that Chief Minister and BJD president Naveen Patnaik, who is contesting from two seats, will vacate one of them to facilitate his close aide Kartik Pandians entry into the Assembly. The allegation was levelled by former BJP president Samir Mohanty at a press conference here, a day after Union []
Angul sizzles at 44.6 degC, IMD forecasts more hot, humid days for Odisha
Bhubaneswar: There seemed to be no respite from the hot and humid weather conditions in Odisha, with 12 places recording temperatures above 43 degrees Celsius Friday and the IMD forecasting similar weather conditions for the next five days. In its evening bulletin, the Regional Meteorological Centre, Bhubaneswar of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) stated that []
Odisha Health Dept Asks Med Stores to Vacate Govt Hospital Campuses
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Thursday directed private medicine stores to vacate campuses of public health institutions across the state. The direction came on the basis of the Orissa High Court order. As per the order, 101 medicine stores are to be evicted from the premises of the Government hospitals and medical colleges across Odisha [] The post Odisha Health Dept Asks Med Stores to Vacate Govt Hospital Campuses appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
BJP president JP Nadda to visit Odisha April 28
Bhubaneswar: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president JP Nadda is scheduled to visit Odisha April 28 (Sunday) for election campaigning, a party leader said Friday. Speaking to mediapersons, senior BJP leader Samir Mohanty said that JP Nadda will address a public meeting at Berhampur in Ganjam district April 28. He will later hold a meeting with []
Mercury soars above 40C at 32 places in Odisha, Angul sizzles at 44.6C
Bhubaneswar: As many as 32 places in the state recorded maximum day temperature above 40C on Friday as Odisha continued to reel under the sweltering heat for 11 days in a row. According to the Bhubaneswar Meteorological Centre,Angul became the hottest city in the state with 44.6C followed by Boudh at 44.5C and Nuapada & [] The post Mercury soars above 40C at 32 places in Odisha, Angul sizzles at 44.6C appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
After quitting BJD, MLA Parshuram Dhada joins BJP ahead of polls in Odisha
Bhubaneswar/ Balasore: Weeks after resigning from the ruling BJD, Soro MLA Parshuram Dhada Friday returned to the BJP ahead of the Lok Sabha and Assembly polls in Odisha. Dhada joined the saffron party at an event organised at the BJPs headquarters here in the presence of its state president Manmohan Samal, former president Samir Mohanty []
Filing of nomination for five Odisha Lok Sabha seats, 35 Assembly segments begins
Bhubaneswar: The process of filing nomination papers for five Lok Sabha constituencies and 35 Odisha Assembly segments to be held May 20 started Friday with the Election Commission of India and Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) issuing the notification in this regard. The five Lok Sabha constituencies are Bargarh, Sundargarh (ST), Bolangir, Kandhamal and Aska Lok []
Bhubaneswar: Apart aiming to add to its 2019 tally of 8 Lok Sabha seats in the state, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which in the past squandered many opportunities to form government in Odisha on its own strength, seems to be quite keen this time to capture power in the state, bringing an end to the 24 years of Biju Janata Dal (BJD) rule. The party has lined up a battery of top leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union home minister Amit Shah, party president JP Nadda, defence minister Rajnath Singh and Uttar Pradesh Chief MinisterYogi Adityanath to campaign in the state. Amit Shah, who addressed a massive public rally in Sonepur in Western Odisha on Thursday, is likely to visit the state again early next month. Senior BJP leader Samir Mohanty on Friday said party national president JP Nadda will visit Odisha on Sunday and address a public rally at Berhampur in Ganjam district to add more firepower to the campaign. After the event in Berhampur, Nadda will attend a meeting of party leaders in Nabarangpur, said Mohanty. Both Berhampur and Nabarangpur Lok Sabha seats are poised for an interesting fight in the upcoming polls. BJP has nominated Gopalpur MLA Pradeep Panigrahi, an ex-BJD leader, for Berhampur constituency while the BJD has fielded former BJP leader Bhrugu Baxipatra. In Nabarangpur, the BJD has nominated Pradeep Majhi, who had won the 2009 polls from the constituency on a Congress ticket. Similarly, the BJP had fielded Balabhadra Majhi, who had defeated Pradeep Majhi in the constituency in 2014 elections as BJD nominee. BJP state headquarters sources said the party is in the process of negotiation with the Prime Minister Narendra Modis office for suitable dates for his campaigning in Odisha. The PM, just before the election schedule was announced, had addressed two public rallies in Odisha one at Sambalpur and the other at Chandikhole in Jajpur district. Though the saffron party has been trying to grab power in the state since 2009 when it was ejected by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik from an 11-year-old alliance with the BJD, it has not succeeded as yet, largely because it failed to make a dent into the regional partys women vote bank. Nearly, 70 lakh women who are the state governments Mission Shakti programmes members, are standing rock solid behind the BJD in every electoral hustings. Besides, old-age, widow and physically-challenged pensions as well as ration-card holders also form a sizable chunk of the BJDs vote bank. Naveen Patnaik, who became the CM of Odisha for the first time in 2000, has won five successive assembly polls. In the 2019 general elections, the BJP won 8 of the 21 Lok Sabha seats and succeeded in pocketing 23 of the 147 assembly seats. Amit Shah, who was then the BJP national president, had set a target of 120-plus assembly seats. However, as political analysts put it, Shahs target fell flat as the party state unit lacked cadre strength at the grassroots.
Soro MLA Parshuram Dhada Joins BJP After Quitting BJD
Bhubaneswar: Soro MLA Parshuram Dhada joined the BJP today, several days after resigning from the BJD. Dhada joined the saffron party along with his supporters at an event organized at the party headquarters here. BJP state president Manmohan Samal, former president Samir Mohanty and other leaders were present on the occasion. Dhada had quit the [] The post Soro MLA Parshuram Dhada Joins BJP After Quitting BJD appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
39 file nominations for four Odisha LS seats, 266 for 28 Assembly segments
Bhubaneswar: Thirty-nine candidates have filed nominations for four Lok Sabha seats and 266 nominees submitted papers for 28 Assembly segments in Odisha for elections to be held May 13. In the first round of simultaneous elections in the state, the polling will take place in Kalahandi, Nabarangpur, Koraput and Berhampur Lok Sabha constituencies and the []
BJP Chief J P Nadda To Visit Odisha On April 28
Bhubaneswar: BJP National President JP Nadda is scheduled to visit Odisha on 28th April to campaign forupcoming elections. During his visit, he will address the public meeting in Berhampur and later he will attend the party leaders meeting in Nabarangpur. It is worth mentioning that, senior BJP leader and former national president Amit Shah visited [] The post BJP Chief J P Nadda To Visit Odisha On April 28 appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
ECI issues notification for 2nd phase voting on May 20 in Odisha
Bhubaneswar: Election Commission of India has issued notification for the second phase voting in Odisha scheduled to be held on May 20, 2024. The voting is scheduled to take place for Bargarh, Sundargarh, Bolangir, Kandhamal, Aska Lok Sabha constituencies and all the assembly constituencies. The first phase voting in Odisha will take place on [] The post ECI issues notification for 2nd phase voting on May 20 in Odisha appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
IMD issues Red Warning for several Odisha districts over severe heat wave conditions
Bhubaneswar: The IMD regional centre in Bhubaneswar Friday issued a Red Warning (be alert) for several districts of Odisha, warning people about heat wave to severe heat wave conditions till May 1. The IMD predicted that the temperature would rise by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius during the next two days and that no major []
Shah urges Odisha BJP leaders to ensure party's victory in LS and assembly polls
BHUBANESWAR: Union Home Minister Amit Shah has urged Odisha BJP leaders to dedicate themselves fully for a month to ensure the party's victory in the simultaneous Lok Sabha and assembly polls in the state. Shah, who held a crucial meeting with BJP leaders of 13 parliamentary constituencies here on Thursday night, urged them to keep their differences aside and work together, party state president Manmohan Samal said after the meeting on Thursday night. Odisha needs a healthy, young and Odia-speaking Chief Minister, Bhubaneswar MP Aparajita Sarangi told reporters quoting Shah. The meeting was attended by the party's MP candidates from Jajpur, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, Dhenkanal, Mayurbhanj, Balasore, Keonjhar, Bhadrak, Puri, Aska and Brahmapur. During the meeting, Shah asked party candidates to go door-to-door and meet common people. He assured that the central leadership will provide all possible help to form the BJP government in the state, sources said. Samal said Shah emphasised on winning all the 21 Lok Sabha seats in the state and getting a majority in the assembly polls to form the next government in Odisha. The state government is looting the funds of the central government and everyone should come together and take a decision to realise Modiji's dream, a leader said quoting Shah. Justifying his optimism regarding BJP's prospects in Odisha, Shah pointed out that the party's vote share ranged from 32 to 34 per cent, which he deemed sufficient for growth and governance in the state. The meeting was also attended by BJP in-charge Sunil Bansal, BJP election in-charge Vijay Pal Singh Tomar, former president Samir Mohanty, MLA Mohan Majhi, woman leader Prabhati Parida, among others.
Survey For Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Project Begins
Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Corporation started the survey work for the proposed Metro Railway in Bhubaneswar on Friday. The survey work was undertaken from Vani Vihar to Sishu Bhawan Square. According to reports, a special team of the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Corporation along with officials of the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC), Bhubaneswar Development Authority [] The post Survey For Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Project Begins appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Shah urges Odisha BJP leaders to ensure partys victory in LS and assembly polls
Bhubaneswar: Union Home Minister Amit Shah has urged Odisha BJP leaders to dedicate themselves fully for a month to ensure the partys victory in the simultaneous Lok Sabha and assembly polls in the state. Shah, who held a crucial meeting with BJP leaders of 13 parliamentary constituencies here on Thursday night, urged them to keep 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 .
Odisha: Elect BJD candidates, VK Pandian urges people
JEYPORE/BHUBANESWAR: 5T chairman and senior BJD leader VK Pandian on Wednesday launched the partys election campaign from Bissam Cuttack and Gunupur and urged people to ensure the victory of BJD candidates in the Lok Sabha and Assembly polls by a huge margin. Addressing an election meeting at Banguruguda village near Semiliguda in Pottangi Assembly seat, Pandian said people will again extend their support to BJD candidates because of the welfare programmes launched by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and the state government. Pandian targeted the opposition leaders and said when election comes, they make promises. But after the polls, these opposition leaders are not seen. He said he will meet the people after elections to thank them for reposing their faith in BJD candidates. The chief minister has directed him to give an account of the work done during the last five years. Stating that welfare work amounting to Rs 160 crore has been started in Bissam Cuttack, the 5T chairman said Bissam Cuttack and Muniguda towns have been declared as NACs while a community health centre (CHC) has been opened at Kalyansinghpur. Houses for Dongria Kondhs, hostels for Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) students have also been sanctioned. The 5T chairman said projects worth Rs 1,370 crore have been started in Gunupur sub-division. Around 80,500 families of Gunupur sub-division have Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana (BSKY) cards. In a veiled attack on BJPs Sambalpur Lok Sabha candidate Dharmendra Pradhan, Pandian alleged that the union minister has been misleading people over the BSKY scheme in the state. You all know this central minister who is talking too much did nothing for Odisha, he claimed. Later, the 5T chairman addressed another meeting at Dasmantpur block in Laxmipur Assembly constituency offering prayers at the local Jagannath temple. Seeking votes for BJDs LS candidate from Koraput Kausalya Hikaka and MLA nominees, he highlighted the development works carried out in Dasmantpur block by the state government. Among others, Hikaka, BJDs candidate from Pottangi Assembly seat Prafulla Pangi and Laxmipur nominee Prabhu Jani were present at the meetings.
Odisha lost 25 yrs under Naveen Patnaik government: Amit Shah
BHUBANESWAR: Setting the tone for the BJPs election campaign pitch, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday tore into the BJD government for keeping Odisha underdeveloped when several backward states have made rapid progress with accelerated growth of four to five times. Addressing an impressive Vijay Sankalp Samabesh at Sonepur, the first election rally by any of the top guns of the BJP, Shah launched a scathing attack on the Naveen Patnaik government accusing it of failing to resolve basic problems of the people in 25 years while Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed many critical issues of the country like Article 370, Triple Talaq and Ram Mandir in the last 10 years. It was lost years for Odisha under Naveen Patnaik government. Time has come for the people to uproot the inefficient and corrupt BJD government and install a double-engine government to take the state into the pinnacle of progress, Shah thundered. Invoking Lord Jagannath and revered deities of western Odisha, Shah said it is a matter of shame that people from the state are still migrating to places like Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi, Surat and even Punjab despite abundant natural resources in Odisha. Dubbing the BJD government as nikamma (useless), the BJP stalwart said massive corruption is its hallmark and the public suffering has compounded as the government is run by a few bureaucrats. Without mentioning the proposed Choudwar textile park, Shah targeted the misplaced priority of state government as it has no plan for revival of the closed textile industries in the western region including the one at Sonepur. Instead of setting up textile industries where cotton cultivation is taken up in a massive way, the state government is planning it elsewhere. There is no logic as western Odisha disticts are major producers of cotton, Shah said adding, his party will set up a textile industry, a fisheries college, agro industry and an ayurvedic medicinal plant in the region. You gave 25 years to BJD. Give five years to BJP and see how a double-engine government solves all problems, he exhorted the people of the state. Recounting the liberal financial assistance given to the state government in the last 10 years, Shah said the Centre released more than Rs 10,000 crore under Jal Jeevan Mission for supply of tap water to all the households. The state has not been able to utilise even Rs 5,000 crore and a large number of households are going without tap water. Clearing the doubt among party workers that he may go soft on BJD after the failed talk of alliance, Shah called the Chief Minister as a liar for claiming credit for the free rice given to families covered under National Food Security Act and houses under PMAY. Scared of Modi popularity, the Naveen Patnaik government is not implementing Ayushman Bharat scheme depriving the poor people from availing free health services, he said. While assailing the regional party for ruining the Sri Jagannath Temple heritage, Shah said the inauguration of the temple corridor project at Puri was deliberately done during the Ram Mandir consecration at Ayodhya to divert the attention of the people of Odisha. Let the BJP come to power in the state, we will improve the temple town like Kashi Viswanath in Varanasi, he said. The meeting was attended by Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Balangir MP Sangeeta Kumari Singhdeo, state BJP president Manmohan Samal and senior leader KV Singhdeo.
Odisha: Two Naxals gunned down in Boudh, security beefed up
BHUBANESWAR/BERHAMPUR: Ahead of the elections, two Naxals were reportedly gunned down in an exchange of fire with the Special Operations Group (SOG) in Parhel reserve forest within Kantamal police limits in Boudh district on Thursday. The bodies of the two ultras, identified as Sunil and Santu, both from 8th company of CPI (Maoists) were recovered from the spot. Sunil and Santu are natives of Chhattisgarhs Sukma and Bijapur respectively. Arms and ammunition, grenades and other articles were recovered and combing operation is on, said ADG (Operations), Dev Datta Singh. The 8th company of the banned CPI (Maoist) comprises members of Kalahandi-Kandhamal-Boudh-Nayagarh (KKBN) division and other groups. Police had intelligence inputs that a group of around 12 to 14 red ultras were camping in deep forest following which the operation was launched. During the operation, an exchange of fire broke out between SOG personnel and the Naxals in the wee hours of Thursday. Security personnel seized a rifle, 17 ammunition, seven rocket-shaped barrels, wires and detonators, five handmade bombs and other articles from the spot. Police sources said the Naxals are using Kandhamal, Kalahandi and Boudh corridor to remain connected with the cadre from Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand. Our challenge is to check their movement in Kalahandi-Kandhamal-Boudh axis. Security has been tightened in the region ahead of elections and adequate forces deployed to ensure polling process passes off smoothly, said a senior police officer. So far this year, seven incidents of exchange of fire have taken place in Boudh which goes to polls on May 20. Since January, the security forces have neutralised three Naxals and at least two incidents of exchange of fire each have taken place in Kandhamal and Gandhamardan Hills located between Bargarh and Balangir districts.
Odisha: No respite from heatwave, its here to stay, says IMD
BHUBANESWAR: One of the longest spells of the heatwave which has taken Odisha in its grip is here to stay and there is no respite in sight anytime soon. As per the India Meteorological Departments (IMD) extended range forecast issued for the next two weeks, dry and blistering conditions will prevail in Odisha till May 9 and some parts are expected to witness severe heatwave during the period. The regional Met office said some places in Odisha may record further rise in mercury level by 2 degree C to 3 degree C within the next two days and there will not be much change in maximum temperature thereafter. Some places are likely to record 3 degree C to 6 degree C above normal temperature in the next five days. Heatwave to severe heatwave conditions may prevail at some places in the state between Friday and Monday (April 29) because of prevailing dry northwesterly to westerly winds and high solar insolation, said director of Bhubaneswar Meteorological Centre Dr Manorama Mohanty. She pointed out that significant thundershower activity is not taking place due to non-availability of adequate moisture. There is no rain forecast for the next one week which could make the existing conditions even more terrifying. The Met office has urged citizens to take utmost precaution while going outside between 11 am and 3 pm. On Thursday, heatwave prevailed in Mayurbhanj, Cuttack, Balasore, Jagatsinghpur, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Ganjam, Khurda, Nabarangpur and Nuapada districts. At least 33 places recorded 40 degree C or more and Jharsuguda was hottest in the state at 43.8 degree C, followed by Baripada 43.6 degree C and Nuapada 43.5 degree C. Twin city Bhubaneswar and Cuttack recorded 42.2 degree C and 43 degree C respectively on the day. Citizens had a tough time as mercury was above normal by 3.9 degree C in capital city and above normal by 5 degree C in neighbouring Cuttack. Heat terror Dry weather predicted between April 26 and May 9 Some places in state may record further rise in temperature in next 2 days Temperature expected to rise by 3 degree C to 6 degree C in the next 5 days At least 33 places in the state recorded 40 degree C on Thursday Defying order As Odisha is scorched under intense heatwave, state government had announced summer vacations in schools from Thursday. However, there were reports that some prominent private schools in the capital city continued with physical classes on the day triggering concerns about safety of the children.
AIIMS-Bhubaneswar opens heat stroke unit
BHUBANESWAR: In view of the prevailing heatwave conditions in the state, AIIMS Bhubaneswar has opened a dedicated unit to treat heat stroke cases. The unit, equipped with necessary medical facilities and adequate staff and doctors from various departments, aims at providing prompt and effective treatment to individuals suffering from sunstroke. Located in Ayush department, the unit comprises six beds and has been operational since the last week. Assistant professor of General Medicine Dr Srikanta Behera has been appointed as the nodal officer of the unit where adequate stock of medicines and oral rehydration solution has been maintained. Executive director Dr Ashutosh Biswas emphasised the necessity of the unit in light of the intense heatwave conditions. He advised people to avoid getting exposed to direct sunlight whenever possible and take precautionary measures such as carrying an umbrella, a wet towel, and a water bottle when venturing outdoors. Medical staff will remain vigilant to address any emergency situation, he said urging people to prioritise their well-being during this period of heightened heat exposure. Medical superintendent Dr Dillip Kumar Parida said the unit has already started treating sunstroke patients. An emergency meeting involving heads of the General Medicine, Trauma and Emergency, and Ayush departments was conducted to strategise and ensure efficient management of heat stroke cases, he added.
Odisha school students to get holiday homework
BHUBANESWAR: With Odisha government announcing closure of schools from April 25, the Directorate of Higher Secondary Education (DHSE) issued a set of instructions regarding holiday homework, online academic support and administrative activities in higher secondary schools during summer vacation. The DHSE in a letter to all the principals of government, upgraded, vocational and aided higher secondary schools stated holiday homework for the vacation period will be given to 12th class students by their subject teachers based on courses covered so far. For any academic assistance students can contact the teacher of the concerned subject to clarify their doubts. The subject teachers, as per DHSE, will also interact with students and their parents whenever it is necessary during the vacation to counsel regarding their well-being and guide them to facilitate self-study. Similarly, DHSE stated the online academic support programme for NEET and JEE aspirants will continue during the summer vacation everyday till 10 am, except for Sundays and government holidays. The move is intended at enabling completion of courses for such aspirants. Teachers must be given roster duty to supervise such online classes, DHSE officials said. This apart, the teachers and other staff will work in the roster during the entire vacation period, while the office on school premises will remain open from 6.30 am to 11.30 am during the vacation keeping in view the admission process for 2024-25 academic session. The smart classrooms, e-library, science laboratory, drinking water facility, sanitation etc will be looked after by the staff to be engaged in roster under the direct supervision of the principal or senior teacher. The DHSE has also made it clear that staff and principals of higher secondary schools are not allowed to leave the headquarters without permission of the authority concerned in view of the ensuing general elections. The headquarters leaving permission is to be entertained only in case of exigencies. With many higher secondary schools being declared as polling stations for the simultaneous polls, the officials are required to extend necessary assistance to the district administration as and when needed, the DHSE underlined.
Women entrepreneurs in Odisha demand separate policy
BHUBANESWAR: Women entrepreneurs demanded a separate policy for women and reservations for women in all procurement policies of the state and Central governments. Highlighting the issues faced by them in participating in government tenders, a group of women entrepreneurs said they are facing various challenges at different steps while doing business. It is high time the governments thought of a separate policy to promote women entrepreneurship and create opportunities instead of challenges, they said at Odisha Wonder Womens Convention - 2024 organised by International Labour Organisation (ILO) and Odisha Assembly of Small and Medium Enterprises (OASME). The convention provided a platform to empower women entrepreneurs in Odisha, offering valuable insights, resources, and networking opportunities to thrive in the competitive business landscape. Focusing on sustainable enterprise and economic empowerment, the workshop addressed key challenges and opportunities for women-led businesses in the region. Chief technical advisor at PSEI, ILO Sudipta Bhadra and chairwoman of OASME women wing Jyotirmayee Mohanty spoke about public procurement policy, digital marketing, and the role of technology in business growth. Secretary general of OASMEA Satwik Swain provided insights and clarification on Odisha Procurement Preference Policy for MSE Manufacturing Enterprises-2024 during a dedicated Q&A session.
Odisha: Nominations for 1st phase polls end
BHUBANESWAR: The nomination filing process for four Lok Sabha constituencies and 28 Assembly segments that go to polls in the state in first phase on May 13, came to an end on Thursday. As per the latest report, a total of 55 nominations have been received for the four Lok Sabha seats - Koraput (ST), Nabarangpur, Kalahandi and Berhampur. Similarly, 336 candidates have filed their nominations for the 28 Assembly seats that will go to elections in the first phase. For the LS seats, as many as 17 nominations were filed for Kalahandi, 16 for Koraput, 15 for Berhampur and seven for Nabarangpur (ST) till the afternoon. Similarly, a total of 24 candidates filed their nomination papers for Berhampur Assembly seat, while 22 filed their papers for Digapahandi. Nuapada received 15 nominations, while Gunupur received 16. Besides, 15 nominations each have been filed from Malkangiri and Junagarh, 14 each from Koraput and Mohana, 12 from Paralakhemundi, 16 from Rayagada, 13 from Bissamcuttack, 11 each from Chikiti and Bhawanipatna, 12 from Pottangi, eight each in Laxmipur and Kotpad and nine from Jeypore and Chitrakonda. The nomination process had commenced on April 18. Several candidates from BJD, BJP, Congress and other parties filed nominations on the last day. Gopalpur MLA and BJP candidate Pradeep Panigrahi filed his nomination for Berhampur Lok Sabha seat, Berhampur MLA and BJD candidate Bikram Panda filed his papers for Gopalpur assembly seat. BJP candidate Goutam Samantray also filed his nomination from Jeypore Assembly constituency. AAP party candidates also filed their nominations for Jeypore and a few other constituencies, sources said. However, the updated nomination details will be known on Friday after the final tally, an official said. As per ECI notification, scrutiny of nomination papers will be carried out on Friday, while candidates will be able to withdraw their nominations by Monday, April 29. In the 2019 general elections, BJD had won the Lok Sabha seats of Nabarangpur and Berhampur, while BJP won Kalahandi and Congress took Koraput. Similarly, 21 out of the 28 Assembly seats in the four Lok Sabha constituencies had been won by BJD last time. BJP had won in four seats, while Congress had managed to register win in three.
Anvesh Pradhan, who interacted with PM Modi, tops JEE Main in Odisha
Bhubaneswar: A student of DAV Chandrasekharpur has secured an impressive 99.997 percentile to emerge as Odisha topper in the recently announced Joint Entrance Examination (JEE Main) 2024. Anvesh Subham Pradhan from Bhubaneswar has emerged Odisha topper in the JEE Main, result of which was published by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on Wednesday. He [] The post Anvesh Pradhan, who interacted with PM Modi, tops JEE Main in Odisha appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Odisha govt challenges Orissa High Courts rejection of OSEPA list for junior teacher recruitment
Bhubaneswar: The Government of Odisha has now challenged the Orissa High Courts rejection of the merit list prepared by the Odisha School Education Programme Authority (OSEPA) for the recruitment of junior teachers in primary and upper primary schools across the State. The next hearing is scheduled to be held on April 29. Last month, the [] The post Odisha govt challenges Orissa High Courts rejection of OSEPA list for junior teacher recruitment appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Nomination Process For Second Phase Polls In Odisha Begins Today
Bhubaneswar: The nomination process for the second phase of elections in Odisha begins on Friday. Five Lok Sabha constituencies and 35 Assembly seats in the state will go to polls in Odisha in the second phase on May 20. The Lok Sabha constituencies where polling will be held on May 20 include Bargarh, Bolangir, [] The post Nomination Process For Second Phase Polls In Odisha Begins Today appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Naveen Patnaik's tenure since 2000 has been Odisha's lost years: Amit Shah
Shah criticizes Naveen's governance, advocates for BJP in Odisha, highlights electoral aims, distractions in a crucial Sonepur rally for change, while BJD responds to boost BJP morale.
Yi to shape future leaders through YIP
Bhubaneswar: In a bid to shape tomorrows leaders today, the Young Indians (Yi) is organising the Young Indians Parliament (YIP) for the first time in the country. Yi is a youth wing of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) for young entrepreneurs. Yi has launched the initiative to bring the parliamentary process in a new []
Bhubaneswar: Badagada police Thursday arrested three conmen who were involved in furnishing fake property surety bonds of Rs 3 crore before a local court, to secure the bail of an accused, presently lodged at Jharpada jail. Those arrested have been identified as Gurucharan Mohanty, 32, a resident of Tankapani road area in Bhubaneswar, SK Azam []
State sets global benchmark in malaria eradication: CM
Bhubaneswar: The state has set a global benchmark in malaria eradication by significantly curbing cases of the vector-borne disease through multi-pronged interventions like Durgama Anchalare Malaria Nirakaran (DAMaN), said Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on World Malaria Day Thursday. The CM called upon the people to take firm action saying, Lets reaffirm pledge to further intensify []
Vacate medicine stores from campuses: Govt
Bhubaneswar: In a significant move, Health and Family Welfare (H&FW) department Thursday directed all the public health institutions to vacate medicine stores from all the hospital premises. In a letter, H&FW Commissioner-cum-Secretary Shalini Pandit said, Certain campus medicine stores had approached the Orissa High Court assailing the communication of this department dated 27.02.2015, wherein it []
Odisha: BJD, BJP, JMM set for battle of supremacy in Mayurbhanj
BHUBANESWAR: BJD, BJP and JMM are all set for a fierce triangular battle of supremacy in the Mayurbhanj Lok Sabha constituency. Odisha: Anjani gets second chance as JMMs Mayurbhanj LS candidate While the two major players BJD and BJP have changed their candidates, JMM has once again nominated its state president Anjani Soren, daughter of veteran leader and founder of JMM Shibu Soren from the seat. However, the electoral fight in the constituency this time will be mainly between BJD candidate Sudam Marndi and his BJP rival Naba Charan Majhi with the regional outfit leaving no stones unturned to wrest the seat from the saffron party. Observers believe the JMM will be the third force to reckon with in the constituency. Though Congress was a major player in earlier elections, its status has been reduced to that of a fringe player with a dwindling support base. Congress had not fielded a candidate from the constituency in 2019 election and extended support to JMM. Such are the political dynamics in the constituency that both the BJD and BJP changed their candidates this time. While the BJP dropped Union Minister for Tribal Affairs and Jal Shakti Bishweswar Tudu and reposed faith on Majhi who is the sitting MLA of the party from Rairangpur Assembly segment, the BJD has fielded Sudam Marndi, Odishas Revenue and Disaster Management Minister and a former MP from the seat. Though the JMM plays a prominent role in politics of the district, Sudam had won the seat only once in 2004. The seat was with the BJP in 1998 and 1999 when its candidate Salkhan Murmu won consecutively. But after the alliance between BJD and BJP broke in 2009, the seat was won by Laxman Tudu and Ramchandra Hansdah of BJD in 2009 and 2014. The 2019 elections saw BJPs dominance in the constituency. Besides winning the Lok Sabha seat, BJP candidates won five of seven Assembly segments under the parliamentary constituency. The importance attached by the BJD to its organisational revival in the district can be gauged from the fact that organisational secretary of the party Pranab Prakash Das was given charge of the district and made the district observer. However, BJD sources maintained the regional outfit has recovered its lost base in the district as was evident from the results of the zilla parishad elections in which the partys candidates won from a majority of seats. The BJP candidate had won by a margin of a little over 25,000 votes in 2019. It remains to be seen whether the change of candidate by BJP will enable it to retain the seat. However, nothing is certain this time as BJD has fielded Sudam, an old political player in the region with solid pocket votes.
Odisha: From inside dams to hilltops, CEO links remotest polling locations with booths
BHUBANESWAR: In Nabarangpur, voters of hamlets like Gurmaiguda, Talang, Tangnikot, Bagra and Jholaguda in the cut-off area of Indravati will no longer have to cross the reservoir to reach the mainland to exercise their franchise. This election, they can vote from the convenience of their own area, well within the reservoir. The chief electoral officer (CEO) has facilitated setting up of new booths within Indravati reservoir to reduce the travelling time of the voters. Under Nabarangpur Assembly constituency, reserved for ST, two new booths have been set up to cover the five hamlets under Tentulikhunti block. There are 431 voters in the hamlets that are located close to one another within the reservoir. While one booth (no 268) has been set up at Tangnikot to cater to 158 voters of Jholaguda, Bagra and Tangnikot, another (no 269) has come up at Gurmaiguda where 273 voters of both Gurmaiguda and Talang will vote. Previously, these voters had to navigate 10 to 15 km, both by boat and road, to reach a polling booth. Aiming at upholding the right to vote by electors, the chief electoral officer and the state administration set up 203 new booths like the ones in the Nabarangpur segment this year in several areas including topographically diverse and geographically-challenged locations across the state to reduce the distance voters had to cover to reach their nearest polling booths. Officials in the office of the CEO informed that in the past elections, voters in the cut-off villages within the Indravati reservoir in Nabarangpur had to take boats to reach Kenduguda to cast their vote. But this time, the polling party will cross the reservoir on motorboats and conduct voting at the two new booths from 7 am to 4 pm. After 40 minutes of boat ride through Indravati, they will travel another 1.5 km by road to reach the Gurmaiguda booth and a further 5 km to the next booth at Tangnikot. Both the booths have been equipped with basic facilities for voters convenience. As the area does not have electricity, generators have been installed in the booths. Similarly in Balangir, a new booth has been set up for persons affected by Lower Suktel irrigation project. The booth has come up at the rehabilitation (R&R) colony at Larkipalli which comes under the Balangir Assembly segment and has over 500 voters. While there are three R&R colonies for those displaced by the lower Suktel project, the highest number of 300 families reside at Larkipalli colony. This is for the first time, they will vote in their own colony where the local high school will be used as a booth. In the past, including the panchayat polls, they had to travel back to their dam site villages like Pardhiapali and Magurbeda in Loisingha block, 20 km away, to vote, said a district official. There are a total of 37,809 polling booths, the majority being in rural areas, in the state for the ensuing twin elections. Apart from the 203 new booths, 89 auxiliary booths have been set up where the number of voters surpassed 1,500 as per guidelines of the Election Commission of India. One such auxiliary booth is at Rasabeda under the Chitrakonda segment where a new booth has been established for the convenience of Bonda voters living in the lower Bonda hill. Since the Rasabeda booth had more than 1,500 voters, a new booth was formed at Gadiput. While the Rasabeda booth now has 896 voters, the new one at Gadiput has 744 voters, said an official of CEO's office.
Naveen Patnaiks second seat is for his political heir: Amit Shah to workers
BHUBANESWAR: In a confidence building measure for the BJP leaders and workers, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday said the saffron party is going to form its first government in Odisha and a young dynamic Odia will be the chief minister. Interacting with Assembly and Lok Sabha candidates of 13 parliamentary constituencies, election in charges, state and district functionaries at a convention centre near Cuttack-Puri by-pass road, Shah said he could clearly see that this is a golden time for the BJP to come to power in the state. The BJP had only three per cent vote share in Assam and 1.5 per cent in Tripura. If it could form government in both the states with absolute majority, why not in Odisha where the vote share of the party is in the range of 32 to 38 per cent in Assembly and Lok Sabha respectively, he wondered. In 1990, the BJP was in the same footing as far as the vote percentage in Odisha and Gujarat was concerned. The party is in power in Gujarat for the last 23 years. It was possible due to the sheer determination of party workers, he said. Nothing is impossible if we have a target and determination to win elections. Do not listen what your opponents are saying because their main job is to confuse and deviate you from achieving your goal, he said. Exuding confidence that the party will do exceedingly well both in Assembly and Lok Sabha elections, Shah said, Just wait for June 4. I will come to Odisha the day BJP government takes oath. A young, healthy and dynamic Odia leader will be the first chief minister of BJP in the state, he reportedly said. Acknowledging that there is still confusion in the minds of some leaders and workers of the party about the friendly relationship of the BJP with BJD, Shah said nothing is above party interests. That was the exact reason f the leadership bowed before the demands of the party workers who were against the proposed alliance with the regional party. On Chief Minister Naveen Patnaiks decision to contest from two Assembly seats, the Chanakya of Indian politics said if BJP workers thought the BJD supremo opted for a second seat with the fear of losing the election, then they are wrong. My reading is that he is going to elect his political heir through back door policy. He will leave one seat for the man of his choice and get him elected to the Assembly to stem any rebellion with the party, he said. Supposed to make a night halt in Bhubaneswar, Shah left for Bhopal after the meeting was over.
Drone crashes near BJP leaders home
Capital city boy, who interacted with PM, tops JEE Main in state
Polls, heat set tender coconut prices on fire
Govt enhances security for Pandian, Pradhan & Panda
Ex-Sambalpur MP quits BJD, joins Cong
Journalist Mohanty passes away at 72
Poll officials take a boat ride to Batighar to urge islanders to vote
Pandian leads BJDs outreach efforts
Cong switches candidate day after he files nomination papers
Gajapati admn stops teens marriage
Govt asks drug stores to vacate hospital premises
Amit Shah shares victory mantra with party workers ahead of twin polls in Odisha
Bhubaneswar: After addressing a huge public meeting in Sonepur of Western Odisha, Union Home Minister and BJP Stalwart Amit Shah provides party workers and senior leaders with the mantra for victory in the ensuing Lok Sabha and Assembly polls in Odisha. A crucial meeting involving the key BJP activists of 13 parliamentary constituencies was held [] The post Amit Shah shares victory mantra with party workers ahead of twin polls in Odisha appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Nomination Process Ends for First Phase of Elections in Odisha
Bhubaneswar: The nomination filing process for four Lok Sabha and 28 Assembly constituencies in Odisha going to polls in the first phase on May 13 has ended on Thursday. The nomination process was started on 18 April. The polling will be held in four Lok Sabha seats namely Kalahandi, Brahmpur, Koraput and Nabarangpur in the [] The post Nomination Process Ends for First Phase of Elections in Odisha appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Odisha Congress changes candidate day after he filed nomination papers
AIIMS Bhubaneswar Launches Special Unit to Manage Heat Stroke Patients
Bhubaneswar: In response to the prevailing scorching heat wave in the state, AIIMS Bhubaneswar has taken proactive measures to address the potential rise in heat stroke cases by establishing a dedicated Heat Stroke Unit. Executive Director Dr. Ashutosh Biswas emphasized the necessity of this unit in light of the intense heat wave conditions. The unit, [] The post AIIMS Bhubaneswar Launches Special Unit to Manage Heat Stroke Patients appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
IMD issues red alert as Odisha reels under severe heatwave, mercury to rise further
Bhubaneswar: Odisha reeled under severe heatwave conditions Thursday with Jharsuguda recording the maximum temperature of 43.8 degrees Celsius, officials said. Baripada sizzled at 43.6 degrees Celsius, followed by Nuapada (43.5), Talcher (43.4), and Boudh (43.2). Kendrapara, Cuttack and Bolangir town recorded a maximum of 43 degrees C, according to the Meteorological Centre at Bhubaneswar. A []
Government asks campus medicine stores to vacate from public health institutions
