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.

Stray dog menace: Chief Secretaries of States, UTs tender 'unconditional apology' in SC for not filing compliance affidavit

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

Odisha Man, 72, Killed On Suspicion Of Practising Witchcraft, 2 Arrested

A 72-year-old man was allegedly killed by two miscreants on the suspicion that he practiced witchcraft, in Chandaka area on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar, police said on Saturday.

CBI arrests key accused in cyber fraud targeting Japanese nationals

NEW DELHI: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested Dwibendu Moharana for allegedly cheating Japanese citizens through fake customer service calls under the guise of providing them with technical support. Moharana, who had been absconding since May this year, was arrested at Bhubaneswar airport on Thursday upon his return from the UAE. According to officials, he was allegedly the mastermind behind an illegal Noida-based call centre, VoIP Connect Pvt Ltd, that impersonated technical support executives of reputed multinational companies to extort money from unsuspecting victims abroad. Moharanas name surfaced during the agencys raids on May 28 this year at 19 locations across Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, which led to the arrest of six operatives. The accused had fled India a day later, evading investigators as the Noida call centre was busted. Moharanas network targeted Japanese citizens using sophisticated social engineering techniques and deception. Victims were tricked into believing their systems were compromised and were coerced into transferring funds as support charges, a CBI official said. The arrest marks a major step in Operation Chakra-V, an ongoing crackdown on global cybercrime networks. After his arrest, Moharana was brought to Delhi on a transit warrant and produced before a special CBI court, which remanded him in police custody for three days for interrogation. The agency said seven people have been arrested in the case so far, and charge sheets have been filed against all of them. Officials said the operation was executed in close coordination with Japans National Police Agency and Microsoft Corporation, whose cybersecurity teams provided critical technical inputs. The joint effort has significantly disrupted the fraud syndicates global operations, the agency added.

Tears, tributes and packed halls as Zubeen Gargs last film Roi Roi Binale shatters records across Assam

GUWAHATI: Fans could not hold back their tears, both inside and outside theatre halls, after watching Roi Roi Binale , the last film featuring music icon Zubeen Garg, who died under mysterious circumstances while swimming in the sea in Singapore on September 19. The movie, directed by Rajesh Bhuyan and released on Friday, ran to packed houses across Assam and broke all opening day records, with most theatre halls scheduling up to five shows a day. The screening started as early as 4.25 am at several theatres. Tickets for all shows for the first week were sold out, and fans had booked the first three days tickets within an hour last week. The state is still grieving Gargs untimely demise, and there was an outpouring of emotion as fans thronged single-screen and multiplex theatres. In viral videos, some were seen seated long after shows were over, sobbing. As a mark of silent tribute, several theatre halls kept one seat reserved for Garg, 52. Roi Roi Binale was his dream project. For the first time in the history of Assamese films, a movie is being released in different parts of the country. It was screened in Patna, Ranchi, Dhanbad, Darjeeling, Gangtok, Mysore, Vellore, Visakhapatnam, Coimbatore, Dehradun, Lucknow, Jaipur, Vapi (Gujarat), Indore, Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, Raniganj, Maldah, Siliguri, Agartala, Dharmanagar, Cooch Behar, Raipur and Nagpur, said Siddharth Goenka, the films distributor. As a mark of silent tribute, several theatre halls kept one seat reserved for Garg, 52. Roi Roi Binale was his dream project. In cities like Bengaluru, Assamese films were earlier screened in only one or two theatres, but this time, it premiered in 17 theatres simultaneously. There will be 600 shows daily in Assam and the rest of the Northeast alone, which is unprecedented. Outside the Northeast, 96 halls would screen the movie with 170 shows daily, Goenka added. The Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), a constituent of Assams ruling coalition, booked all 218 seats for a show at a multiplex in Guwahati. AGP ministers Atul Bora and Keshab Mahanta watched the film along with party leaders and workers. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said he would watch it privately. If I go to a cinema hall, it will cause inconvenience to people as I will be accompanied by my security personnel, he said. Garg plays the lead role of a blind musician in Roi Roi Binale , a musical love story that recounts the life and struggle of a visually impaired artist who experiences the world through sound, imagination and love. The film features 11 songs, all composed by Garg himself.

VinFast Accelerates Expansion in India with 24 Operational Dealerships, Bringing Premium EV Experience Closer to Customers

VinFast Auto India , a subsidiary of global electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast, has marked a major leap in its retail network expansion, with 24 dealerships now operational across major cities in India. This marks strong progress toward the companys commitment of establishing 35 dealerships nationwide by the end of CY 2025, as part of its mission to deliver premium electric mobility experiences to Indian consumers. Customers are now able to get up close to the newly launched premium electric SUVs - VF 6 and VF 7. (Right to left) Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO of VinFast India along with Mr. Santosh Dhone, Dealer Principal inaugurated VinFast Hadapsar & Baner, Pune The newly inaugurated showrooms spread across impact cities offering customers an unmatched brand experience. Each outlet adheres to VinFasts global retail standards, integrating modern design and car display area to ensure seamless and transparent customer engagement. These 24 showrooms are operational in cities including Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Surat, Pune, Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, Nagpur, Agra, Ludhiana, Jaipur, Kochi, Bhubaneswar, Baroda, Rajkot reinforcing VinFasts growing presence across India. Speaking on the milestone, Mr. Tapan Ghosh, CEO, VinFast India, said Indias enthusiasm for sustainable mobility motivates us to keep raising the bar. The rapid rollout of brand experience Showrooms underscores VinFasts long-term commitment to the Indian market. We are working closely with our dealer partners to make VinFast products and services accessible to customers across the country. Our goal is not just to sell EVs, but to deliver an inspiring, customer-centric journey anchored in sustainability and innovation. With the recent launch of its premium electric SUVs, VF 6 and VF 7, in India, VinFast is simultaneously building a comprehensive ecosystem that integrates retail, charging, and after-sales services to ensure customers enjoy the same level of confidence, convenience, and care that defines its vehicles. The company has formed strategic partnerships with RoadGrid, myTVS, Castrol India and Global Assure to create a reliable nationwide framework for charging and after-sales services. VinFasts state-of-the-art factory in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, stands as a cornerstone of its India growth strategy. Spanning 400 acres, in its first phase, the facility will assemble the VF 6 and VF 7 models with an initial capacity of 50,000 vehicles per year, scalable up to 150,000 units. Once fully operational, it will create 3,0003,500 direct jobs and several thousand more in the wider supply chain strengthening Tamil Nadus emergence as a leading EV manufacturing hub in South Asia. The company remains on track to operationalize all 35 dealerships by December 2025, establishing a strong nationwide network that provides widespread brand reach, reliable after-sales support, and a seamless ownership experience. About VinFast VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnams largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFasts product lineup today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. vinfastauto.in .

Special trains from Araku, Srikakulam Road, Bhubaneswar to Bengaluru

AI, Geopolitics, And Art: 12th Kalinga Literary Festival Set For January 2026

Bhubaneswar is set to host the 12th Kalinga Literary Festival (KLF) from January 8 to 11, 2026, at Mayfair Lagoon. The event, produced by the Odisha Diary Foundation, is widely recognised as a major global gathering for writers and thinkers.

Train and flight services in A.P. disrupted due to Cyclone Montha

20 trains, 10 originating in Vizag and 11 operating from various divisions of SCR in A.P. and one from Bhubaneswar have been cancelled

Cyclone 'Montha' intensifies: Andhra Pradesh, Odisha brace for severe storm landfall

With Cyclone Montha intensifying over the Bay of Bengal and expected to make landfall near Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday evening or night, both Odisha and Andhra Pradesh governments have stepped up preparedness, evacuating people from vulnerable areas and putting rescue teams on high alert, PTI reported. The Odisha government on Monday evacuated around 3,000 people, including 1,496 pregnant women, from low-lying and hilly regions across eight southern districts Malkangiri, Koraput, Nabarangpur, Rayagada, Gajapati, Ganjam, Kalahandi and Kandhamal, where a red alert has been sounded. Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said the evacuation drive, which prioritises pregnant women, the elderly and persons with disabilities, aims to move 32,528 people to safety as the state targets zero casualty in the impending calamity. We have opened 1,445 cyclone shelters and arranged food, medicine, lighting and care for domestic animals, he said after reviewing the situation in the evening, PTI reported. A total of 140 rescue teams from the NDRF, ODRAF and Fire Service have been deployed, up from 128 earlier. Arrangements have been made to restore electricity within 24 hours of the cyclone, said Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) D K Singh, adding that power backup is ready in all hospitals and drinking water units. Pujari said rainfall had already begun in parts of southern and coastal Odisha, including Bhubaneswar, and would intensify on October 28 and 29. Landslides are a major concern in the hilly Gajapati district, where 139 vulnerable locations have been identified. Government employees leave has been cancelled till October 30, and schools and anganwadi centres in nine districts have been ordered shut until then. The SRC said all ports in Odisha have hoisted Distant Cautionary Signal No-I, and fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea till October 29. Most fishermen have already returned, he said. Ganjam district has provided shelter to over 100 Andhra fishermen who will return home once the weather normalises, PTI added. According to the latest IMD bulletin issued at 8.30 pm, Cyclone Montha meaning fragrant flower in Thai, was centred over the west-central and adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal at 5.30 pm, around 450 km south-southeast of Kakinada, 500 km south of Visakhapatnam and 670 km south of Gopalpur. The system is moving northwestwards at about 15 kmph and is expected to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by Tuesday morning. It is likely to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, near Kakinada, on the evening or night of October 28 with maximum sustained wind speeds of 90100 kmph, gusting to 110 kmph. In Odishas southern coastal areas, wind speeds may reach 6070 kmph, gusting up to 80 kmph, from Tuesday evening. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast for October 28 and 29, after which the system is expected to weaken and move towards Chhattisgarh as a cyclonic storm. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured all possible central assistance to Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said after the PM called to review the situation, PTI reported. Naidu held a high-level meeting via Real Time Governance System (RTGS), directing officials to strengthen canal banks, prepare for floods, and monitor the cyclones movement hourly. All fishermen have been brought back to shore. Medical teams, NDRF units, and engineering departments are on standby for restoration operations post-cyclone, an official release cited by PTI said. Relief measures announced include Rs 3,000 cash, 25 kg rice, and other essentials per family in relief camps. Heavy to very heavy rains are forecast in Krishna district, and heavy rainfall is expected in Guntur, Bapatla, NTR, Palnadu and West Godavari districts over the next two days. East Coast Railway has also announced cancellation, diversion and short termination of some trains operating in the Waltair region and adjoining routes as precautionary measures, PTI reported. The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday forecast high sea waves along the Andhra Pradesh coast from Nellore to Srikakulam, ranging between 2 and 4.7 metres. In a joint bulletin, the agencies had warned that the high waves were expected for six hours, between 5.30 pm and 11.30 pm on October 27 and a storm surge of about one metre above the astronomical tide could inundate low-lying areas of coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam around the time of landfall. In a separate development, the IMD said a depression has formed over the east-central Arabian Sea, lying stationary near latitude 16.7N and longitude 67.3E about 570 km southwest of Veraval (Gujarat) and 650 km west-southwest of Mumbai. The system, distinct from Cyclone Montha , is likely to move north-northeastwards across the east-central Arabian Sea over the next 48 hours. Even as Montha gathers strength, most parts of Tamil Nadu remained largely dry on Monday. The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai, however, issued an orange alert for Tiruvallur district for Tuesday and yellow alerts for Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Ranipet, Theni, Tenkasi and Kanniyakumari. With the system steering away from the Tamil Nadu coast, rainfall activity is expected to remain moderate to heavy over north coastal districts on Tuesday and ease considerably after landfall on Wednesday. Light to moderate rain was reported in a few areas of Chennai, while most interior districts remained dry. Fishermen along Tamil Nadu and south Andhra coasts have been warned of strong winds and rough sea conditions. (With inputs from PTI)

Cyclone Montha impact: Trains cancelled, diverted

Hyderabad: The South Central Railway (SCR) has cancelled and diverted several long-distance trains as a precautionary measure ahead of Cyclone Monthas impact across Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Odisha. Train cancelled SecunderabadBhubaneswar Express (Train No. 18464), scheduled for October 29, now stands cancelled. Trains diverted ErnakulamPatna Express (Train No. 22643), scheduled for October 27, will run 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 .

Hockey India League to kick off in Chennai on January 3

The new season of HIL will feature mens league in Chennai, Ranchi, and Bhubaneswar, and womens league will once again take place entirely in Ranchi

Super Cup kicks off in Goa, hopes to revive flagging Indian football

Traditionally held at the end of the season in Bhubaneswar, the Super Cup has been moved to Goa this time as a season opener to provide ISL clubs

Cyclonic storm over Bay of Bengal may trigger heavy rains from October 27

A fresh low-pressure area formed over southeast Bay of Bengal on Friday is likely to intensify into a cyclonic storm by October 27 and may cause heavy rainfall across Odisha and some parts of West Bengal for three days starting Monday, officials said. Bhubaneswar meteorological department director Manorama Mohanty said the weather system has moved west-northwestwards over the past three hours and is likely to move in that direction further. It will become a depression over the southeast and adjoining central Bay of Bengal by October 25, a deep depression by October 26, and a cyclonic storm over the southwest and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal by the morning of October 27, Mohanty told reporters here. Asked whether the system will make landfall on the Odisha coast, she said, It is too early to predict, but wherever it makes landfall, Odisha is likely to experience heavy to extremely heavy rainfall from October 27 to 29.The coastal districts are expected to be most affected. The IMD has issued a yellow warning for light to moderate rainfall in 12 districts on Friday, 21 districts each on Saturday and Sunday, and across the entire state on Monday. Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said the state government was closely monitoring the situation and prepared to face any eventuality. October is generally considered a cyclone-prone month. There is no need to panic. The government is fully prepared to handle the situation, Pujari said. The system is also likely to bring heavy rainfall in south Bengal districts comprising North and South 24 Parganas, Purba and Paschim Medinipur, Jhargram and Howrah between October 28 and 30, weather officials said. Thunderstorms with lightning are likely in Kolkata and adjoining Hooghly district on October 28. North Bengal districts of Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, Cooch Behar, Dakshin Dinajpur and Malda are also likely to get heavy rain between October 29 and 30, they said. The low pressure has also triggered a fresh spell of northeast monsoon rains in the North coastal region of Tamil Nadu, including Chennai . An orange alert has been issued for Chennai, Kancheepuram, and Tiruvallur districts on October 27, warning of heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning. Parts of Chengalpattu and Ranipet are also expected to receive intense showers during the said period. According to the IMDs five-day forecast, heavy rains are likely in Chennai and neighbouring districts till October 28 with possibilities of waterlogging in low-lying areas. In the last 24 hours ending 8.30 am on Friday, widespread rainfall were reported across several districts, with Pallipattu in Tiruvallur recording the highest at 15 cm, followed by Nalumukku in Tirunelveli (12 cm) and Oothu (11 cm). Arakonam in Ranipet district recorded 10 cm, while Medavakkam in Chennai received 9 cm. Several parts of southern Tamil Nadu, including Kanyakumari and Tirunelveli, also witnessed moderate to heavy spells. Chennai Corporation officials said field teams have been placed on alert to clear stormwater drains and ensure swift water discharge ahead of the rains this weekend. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea as strong winds are likely to prevail along the Tamil Nadu and south Andhra coast in the coming days. With the northeast monsoon active, IMD officials cautioned that intense rainfall episodes may continue over the next week, particularly in northern coastal districts. (With inputs from SV Krishna Chaitanya , PTI)

Fire breaks out in Bhubaneswar market, 30 shops gutted

A fierce inferno broke out at Haat Unit-I, the biggest daily market in Bhubaneswar, consuming around 30 shops and causing property losses in the crores. Thankfully, there were no injuries reported. Fire crews worked tirelessly for more than two hours to extinguish the flames, facing challenges due to the market's disorganized layout.

Odisha Police Busts Sex Racket In Bhubaneswar After Rescue Of Minor Girl

Two women, including the mastermind, arrested; male suspect goes absconding

16-year-old Jharkhand girl trafficked into sex trade in Bhubaneswar, police nabs four

BHUBANESWAR: Investigation into the sexual assault on a 16-year-old girl from Jharkhand in Bhubaneswar led police to a flesh trade racket and the subsequent arrest of four persons on Saturday. The minor victim was apparently trafficked into the sex racket, which was operating in the Laxmisagar area of the city. Police arrested a 28-year-old man for allegedly raping the minor girl and held three others subsequently. The 16-year-old victim, a native of Jharkhand, was allegedly trafficked and pushed into the flesh trade in the city. Police said she had sustained serious injuries to her private parts. The matter came to light after she admitted herself to Capital Hospital on October 16. During treatment, the doctors found out that the girl had a history of sexual assault and was suffering from psychological disorders. The capital police were informed, and a rape case was registered. Based on the case, an investigation was launched into the matter, Police Commissioner S Dev Datta Singh said. Police examined the CCTV cameras and found that the girl had arrived in the hospital in an auto-rickshaw. During the investigation, police found that a woman had booked the auto-rickshaw through an online app. They collected her details from the driver and conducted a raid at a house under the Laxmisagar police station earlier in the day. We could establish that the accused, who booked the auto-rickshaw and sent the minor girl to Capital Hospital, was running a sex racket in the house along with two others, Singh said. Police arrested the house owner, Sanjib Kumar Das (54), and two pimps - Manju Sethi (47) and Mamata Sahu (42). Later, Abinash Muduli, a 28-year-old from Nayagarh, was arrested for raping the minor victim. Subsequently, two separate cases under section 65(1) of BNS and section 6 of the POCSO Act were registered. Laxmisagar police registered a case against the house owner and two women pimps for running the sex racket (human trafficking), while Capital police registered the case against the youth for sexually assaulting the victim. Police said the minor survivor was unable to clearly share her details but managed to reveal that she is a native of Jharkhand. We are in touch with Jharkhand police to ascertain her identity, he added. During the raid, police also rescued three other women who were engaged in prostitution.

IIT Bhubaneswar, Indian Army Ink MoU for Joint Research in Emerging Technologies

The MoU was signed by Brigadier G.S. Bedi, Commandant, SDD, Secunderabad, and Professor Dinakar Pasla, Dean (Sponsored Research & Industrial Consultancy), IIT Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar has stray dogs significantly higher than national average

As per census outcome, there are currently 47,126 stray dogs in Bhubaneswar - 36 per 1000 human against national average of 11

Her lifes in danger: Rape survivors father appeals to government to shift daughter to Bhubaneswar

The survivor, a second-year MBBS student, is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in Durgapur

Father of Durgapur gang-rape survivor seeks her transfer to Bhubaneswar, cites threat to life

BHUBANESWAR: The father of a 23-year-old woman, who was allegedly gang-raped in West Bengal's Durgapur, appealed to the Odisha government to shift her to Bhubaneswar for treatment, citing a threat to her life. The survivor, a second-year MBBS student, is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in Durgapur. Her parents, residents of Jaleswar in Balasore district, rushed to West Bengal after being informed about the incident. I appeal to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to help shift my daughter to Bhubaneswar. I fear that her life may be in danger, the father told PTI over the phone from Durgapur on Sunday. The Dalit woman was allegedly raped by three men while she had gone out of the campus with a male student around 8 pm on Friday, officials said. The student's father said the family felt unsafe in West Bengal and was oo frightened to trust anyone. They (not taking any name) will kill my daughter. Her health condition has improved, but there is danger to her life. I cannot trust them, he said. I am hiding in Durgapur, while my wife, a diabetic, stands at the bedside of our daughter in the hospital, he added. 'Girls shouldnt be out at night: Mamata's shocking remark on Durgapur gangrape; CM says comments taken out of context The father made a plea to the Odisha government after a team of officials from Balasore visited the hospital on Saturday, acting on the direction of Majhi, who had spoken to him over phone the same night. Asked about West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's reported remark that girls should not venture out of campus at night, the father said: This is completely false. I see an attempt to suppress the incident. My daughter had not gone out at midnight -- it was just 8 pm on Friday. He further alleged that the survivor had gone out with a male companion who fled the scene during the attack and did not alert anyone. She was attacked between 8 pm and 9 pm. Her male companion ran away and did not raise an alarm or seek help. The miscreants then dragged her into a jungle area and did unspeakable things to her, he claimed. Additional District Magistrate of Balasore, Hemant Singh, who visited the hospital, said, The West Bengal Police have arrested three people within 36 hours of the incident. We are satisfied and hope that justice will be done to the victim. A four-member team from the Balasore district administration, including District Social Welfare Officer Jyotsna Mohanty, also met the family. The survivor's condition is gradually improving. We have assured the family that the Odisha government stands firmly with them. Necessary coordination is being maintained with the West Bengal Police, Mohanty said. Meanwhile, BJP MP Pratap Sarangi came down heavily on the Banerjee government and blamed the chief minister for the complete breakdown of the law and order in the state.

Hong Kong beat India to reach medal rounds in Asian Team TT

Bhubaneswar, Oct 12: Indias mens table tennis team suffered a one-sided 0-3 defeat against Hong Kong in the quarterfinals of the 28th ITTF-ATTU Asian Team Table Tennis Championships, here on Sunday. Despite Indias higher world ranking at No 4, Hong Kong, ranked sixth, displayed superior composure, tactical awareness, and discipline to claim a comfortable victory. []

Her Lifes in Danger Rape Survivors Father Appeals to Govt to Shift Daughter to Bhubaneswar

Odisha CM assures support; family fears threat to daughters life in West Bengal

Medical student from Odisha gang-raped in Bengal

Kolkata/Bhubaneswar: A student from Odisha, studying at a private medical college in West Bengals Paschim Bardhaman district, was raped allegedly by some men on Friday, October 10. The incident occurred outside the private medical college campus in Durgapur when the second-year student went out with a friend to fetch some food, a police officer said. 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 .

PM lays foundation stones for 160-crore fishery projects in Odisha

The fishery projects included a 100-crore integrated aqua park at Basantapur in Sambalpur district and a Rs 59.13-crore fish market at Pandara in Bhubaneswar

Modi Lays Foundation for Rs 160-Crore Fishery Projects in Odisha

Projects include Sambalpur aqua park and Bhubaneswar fish market, supporting modern fish farming and trader livelihoods

PM Modi to lay foundation stones on Saturday for modern fish market, aqua park in Odisha

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually inaugurate key projects in Odisha on Saturday, including a Rs 60 crore retail fish market in Bhubaneswar and a Rs 100 crore integrated aqua park in Hirakud. These initiatives, launched from New Delhi, aim to boost aquaculture, tourism, and self-reliance in pulses, with Odisha's Chief Minister and other dignitaries attending a state-level function.

Industry, Government Pledge Inclusive Growth At Viksit Bharat 2047 Viksit Odisha 2036 Meet

A high-level workshop on Viksit Bharat 2047 Viksit Odisha 2036 concluded in Bhubaneswar on Friday, drawing strong commitments from industry leaders and government officials to work jointly toward inclusive, sustainable, and locally driven growth.

Soham Dhar Joins Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru as Chef de Cuisine at CUR8

Chef Dhars journey began at IHM Bhubaneswar, where early exposure to international cuisines sparked a lifelong fascination with the culinary arts. For him, food is more than flavour; it is art, celebration, and human connection.

World University Rank 2026: IISc Bangalore rated best in country

NEW DELHI: Next to the United States, India has the highest number of educational institutions figuring in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026. A total of 128 institutes from India have made it to the rankings, with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore rated the best in the country and categorised in the 201-250 rank band. For the tenth consecutive year, the University of Oxford was rated the best in the world, the rankings state. A total of 2,191 institutions across 115 countries were assessed for this 22nd edition of these rankings. In a statement, THE said, India now has the second highest number of ranked universities, behind only the US. The US has 171 institutions, making it the No. 1 country in the rankings, while Japan stands third with 115 institutions figuring here. The Indian institution which figures next to IISc Bangalore is Chennais Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, which was classified in the 351-400 band. Two universities are in the 401-500 band Delhis Jamia Millia Islamia University and Himachal Pradeshs Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences. The institutes falling in the 501-600 rank band are Banaras Hindu University, IIT Indore, Bhubaneswars KIIT University, Lovely Professional University, Kottayams Mahatma Gandhi University, and Dehraduns UPES. The rankings also listed these universities in the 601-800 rank band IIT Patna, IIIT Hyderabad, Amity University, Noida, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Central University of Punjab, Aligarh Muslim University, Graphic Era University in Dehradun, Chitkara University in Chandigarh, NIT Rourkela, Punjab University, University of Delhi and VIT University. The universities that have made it to the top ten ranks globally are Massachusetts Institute of Technology, United States (2); Princeton University, US, and University of Cambridge, UK (jointly ranked 3); Harvard University and Stanford University (5th rank jointly); California Institute of Technology, US (7); Imperial College London, UK (8); University of California, US (9); and Yale University, US (10). When compared among Asian countries alone for the top slots, China leads the rankings.

Odisha Police widen probe into recruitment scam

Raid was conducted on a prominent coaching centre of Bhubaneswar to ascertain any possible link between the coaching centre, job seekers, and the scamsters

Bengaluru-Guwahati Air India Express Flight Makes Emergency Landing in Bhubaneswar After Passenger Falls Ill

The pilot immediately contacted BPIAs Air Traffic Control (ATC) and requested clearance for an emergency landing.

Indias healthcare set to top $1.5 trillion by 2030, but gaps in access and rising disease burden persist

NEW DELHI: Indias healthcare sector is poised for a major transformation, with its total market value expected to surpass USD 1.5 trillion by 2030, according to Rubix Industry Insights: Healthcare September 2025, a report by Rubix Data Sciences. Currently valued at USD 638 billion, the industry is growing at a brisk 19% annually, driven by rising incomes, wider insurance penetration, robust private investment, and digital innovation. But while the sector is expanding rapidly, the report flags persistent structural challenges. Rural areas -- where nearly two-thirds of Indias population lives -- have access to just 30% of the countrys hospital beds. Bed density remains at 1.6 per 1,000 people, below the World Health Organizations recommended minimum of 2. Nurse density is also lagging, at 1.9 per 1,000 compared to the WHO benchmark of 3. India will need to add 650,000 nurses and 160,000 doctors by 2030 to meet demand. At the same time, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes and hypertension are surging. Diabetes currently affects nearly 90 million people, projected to rise to 156.7 million by 2050, while hypertension affects nearly one-third of adults. Despite these headwinds, India's cost advantage remains its most compelling strength. Surgical procedures are priced far below Western standards, making the country a major draw for medical tourism for people from many parts of the world. A heart bypass in India costs between USD 4,0006,000, compared to USD 80,000120,000 in the U.S., USD 25,00040,000 in the UK, and USD 30,00045,000 in Australia. Hip and knee replacements, and even complex surgeries like spinal fusion, cost one-tenth to one-fifteenth of what they do in developed markets. This unmatched affordability, combined with NABH-accredited hospitals, shorter wait times, and English-speaking medical staff, has fueled a surge in foreign patient inflows from 6.1 million in 2023 to 7.3 million in 2024. The countrys medical tourism market, valued at USD 7.7 billion in 2024, is projected to double to USD 16 billion by 2030. Private sector investment has been another major growth driver. Capital inflows into hospitals surged from USD 0.73 billion in 2022 to nearly USD 6 billion in 2024, while FDI in healthcare rose 2.3 times to reach USD 1.56 billion in FY2025. Private healthcare operators are set to add 34,000 new beds by FY2029, backed by INR 400 billion in planned investments. Notably, 40% of this expansion is being directed toward Tier-II and Tier-III cities, including Patna, Lucknow, and Bhubaneswar a sign of the sectors decentralization and growing regional focus. At the same time, digital health is fast emerging as a cornerstone of the sectors future. The digital health market, worth USD 8.8 billion in 2024, is expected to grow more than fivefold to USD 47.8 billion by 2033. Flagship government platforms like the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission and e-Sanjeevani have created a strong digital infrastructure for teleconsultation, e-records, and remote diagnostics. AI is increasingly being used in hospitals for imaging, robotic surgery, and neonatal care. Examples include AIIMS Nagpurs tele-neonatal unit, which halved infant mortality, and IMS-BHUs AI-based imaging system, which saved INR 20 million annually. On the insurance front, premiums hit INR 1.18 trillion in FY2025, though growth slowed to 9%. The proposed removal of GST on health insurance is expected to ease costs and expand coverage, especially among middle- and lower-income groups. While Indias healthcare story is still unfolding, the sectors combination of affordability, innovation, and private capital is turning it into a global hub for patients, investors, and technology alike. With targeted reforms and capacity-building, India is positioning itself not just to meet domestic demand but to emerge as a world leader in accessible, technology-driven healthcare. Indicative Cost of Surgeries body { font-family: Arial, sans-serif; padding: 20px; } table { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; margin-top: 20px; } caption { caption-side: top; font-size: 1.5em; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 10px; } th, td { border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 10px; text-align: center; } th { background-color: #f4f4f4; } tr:nth-child(even) { background-color: #fafafa; } Indicative Cost of Surgeries (USD) Procedure India USA UK Australia Heart Bypass 4,0006,000 80,000120,000 25,00040,000 30,00045,000 Hip Replacement 4,0005,000 30,00050,000 12,00018,000 20,00030,000 Knee Replacement 3,5004,000 40,00060,000 15,00025,000 25,00040,000 Spinal Fusion 12,00014,000 100,000150,000 25,00050,000 40,00060,000 Facelift 2,5003,000 12,00020,000 8,00015,000 10,00018,000 Dental Implant (per implant) 300800 2,0005,000 1,5003,000 2,0004,000

IT Minister approves setting up of NaMo Semiconductor Laboratory at IIT Bhubaneswar

NEW DELHI, Oct 5: Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has recently approved the setting up of the NaMo Semiconductor Laboratory at IIT Bhubaneswar, an official statement said today. The project will be funded under the MPLAD scheme and the estimated cost of project is Rs 4.95 crore, the statement added. NaMo Semiconductor Lab will contribute to Bharats deep talent pool by equipping the youth with industry-ready skills. This lab will position IIT Bhubaneswar as a hub for semiconductor research and [] The post IT Minister approves setting up of NaMo Semiconductor Laboratory at IIT Bhubaneswar appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw approves Rs 4.95 crore NaMo semiconductor lab at IIT Bhubaneswar

BHUBANESWAR: Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw has approved NaMo semiconductor laboratory at IIT Bhubaneswar. The project estimated at Rs 4.95 crore will be funded under the MPLAD scheme. The NaMo semiconductor lab will contribute to India's deep talent pool by equipping the youth with industry-ready skills. The lab will also position IIT Bhubaneswar as a hub for semiconductor research and skilling. It will help in developing talent for the chip manufacturing and packaging units coming up across the country. Sources said the upcoming lab will further boost the Make-in-India and Design-in-India initiatives. It will act as a catalyst for the fast-growing semiconductor ecosystem of the country. India is home to 20 per cent of global chip design talent. Students of 295 universities across the country are using the latest EDA tools provided by the industry. So far, 28 student-designed chips from 20 institutes have been taped out at the semiconductor laboratory (SCL), Mohali. Odisha has recently received approval for two semiconductor projects under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM). One of these is an integrated facility for Silicon Carbide (SiC)-based compound semiconductors. The second is an advanced 3D glass packaging facility. As IIT Bhubaneswar hosts the Silicon Carbide Research and Innovation Centre (SiCRIC), the new lab will add to the institutes existing clean room facilities. It will provide R&D facilities to support the semiconductor industry in India. The proposed lab will have essential equipment and software required for semiconductor training, design and fabrication. The project cost has been estimated at Rs 4.6 crore for equipment and Rs 35 lakh for software, sources said. Recently, the state government has amended the Odisha Semiconductor Manufacturing and Fabless Policy to position Odisha as a leader in the semiconductor and electronics ecosystem by attracting more investments and making semiconductor and allied projects more viable, competitive and sustainable with broader and lucrative package of incentives. As many as 16 significant changes in the policy including a special package for first few projects, enhanced performance-linked incentives, relocation support for units shifting to Odisha, and incentives for semiconductor park developers, have been approved. The amendment also strengthened provisions for R&D and workforce skilling, which are two critical areas for long-term sustainability and innovation in the sector. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for approving the NaMo semiconductor laboratory in the state. He said with the cabinet recently approving the state semiconductor policy and multiple MoUs getting signed with leading semiconductor companies, the initiative will strengthen Odisha as a hub for semiconductor research, design and advanced manufacturing. I am confident that the 'NaMo Semiconductor Laboratory' will inspire our youth, accelerate research, and further strengthen Odishas position on the national and global semiconductor map, while advancing Make in India and Design in India initiatives, he posted on X.

Marijuana Worth Rs 3 Crore Seized At Bhubaneswar Airport; Kerala Youth Arrested

Officials said the contraband, weighing 3.2 kilograms, was intercepted during a routine inspection of air cargo. A youth from Kerala was arrested in connection with the seizure. The suspect was reportedly transporting the narcotics consignment through air freight when Customs officials detected the package

Krishna Leela Guru Gopinath Swain passes away

BHUBANESWAR: Guru Gopinath Swain, one of the last Gurus of the near-extinct folk dance tradition of Krishna Leela, passed away on Thursday. He was 107. A native of Govindapur village in Sheragada block of Ganjam, Swain was suffering from age-related ailments and was bedridden since last few months. For close to nice decades, Swain documented, preserved, promoted and performed Krishna Leela and in recognition of his efforts in propagating the cultural tradition, Centre had conferred on him the Padmashree Award in 2024. Born on February 15, 1918, Swain began learning Krishna Leela from the young age of 10 years from his father's elder brother. He then began singing the songs and playing the role of Krishna, learning them from Guru Choudhury Behera. Specialising in the Krishna Leela authored by 18th-century saint Babaji Dukhisyama Dasa in Odia language and based on Odissi music, Swain widely performed and trained hundreds of students in this form through several traditional akhada schools. People from different walks of life paid their tributes. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed his condolences. Guru Gopinath Swain will remain eternally memorable for his contributions to the folk art world of Odisha. I convey my condolences to the bereaved family and pray to Lord Shri Jagannath for the peace of the departed soul, he wrote on X. Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik said Guru Swain dedicated his life in enriching Odisha's folk art of Krishna Leela and is a source of inspiration for all. Swains mortal remains were consigned to flames at his native village.

Mediation can transform discord into dialogue, says CJI Gavai

At National Mediation Conference in Bhubaneswar, Chief Justice stresses collective efforts to make mediation integral to justice system

'Stay away from Congress and its allies, they are looting': PM Modi in Odishas Jharsuguda

BHUBANESWAR: Launching a scathing attack on Congress at the Namo Yuva Samabesh at Odishas Jharsuguda, Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned people to stay away from the party and its allies. He also said that Congress is looting the country. The Prime Minister said that the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh imposed a new tax on cement, which had 'actually' become cheaper after the GST reforms. Cheaper cement would have helped the common people in the construction of their houses. People of Himachal Pradesh are being deprived of it while the entire nation is benefitting from it, he said. The Congress looted the country till 2014. We saved the country from the cultural loot, after coming to power, he added. While the BJP and its governments are working for the welfare of poor people of the country, the Prime Minister said Congress and its governments in States continue to work against the interest of the common people, even now. The Prime Minister said that the BJP-led government has exempted income tax upto an income of Rs 12 lakh.But during the Congress regime, Rs 25,000 was levied as income tax on a spending of Rs 1 lakh, he said. He added that now only Rs 4,000 to Rs 5000 tax would have to be paid for Rs 1 lakh spending. The BJP government is a government that serves the poor, with a focus on providing basic amenities to Dalits, backward classes and tribals. Today, in this program, we are witnessing it, he added. The Prime Minister said that a year and a half ago, during the assembly elections, the people of Odisha vowed to move forward with a new resolve, a resolve for a developed Odisha. And today, we see that Odisha is moving forward at the speed of a double engine, he asserted. The Prime Minister also launched projects and programmes worth Rs 60,000 crore during the programme, including BSNL 4G services to improve communication in 30,000 faraway villages. He also distributed pucca houses permits to 50,000 Antyadayo beneficiaries in the State. Besides, work on expanding IITs in several states has also started, he said and added that in Odisha, the foundation stone has been laid and inaugurations have been held for numerous initiatives related to education, skills, and connectivity. Notably, the Prime Minister also flagged off the modern Amrit Bharat train from Berhampur to Surat.

Bhubaneswar to host Asian TT team championships from Oct 11 to 15

Invoke Courage, Wisdom, And Harmony Through Worship Of Devi Bhubaneswari

Devi Bhubaneswari, also known as Bhuvaneshvari, is revered in Shaktism as the Queen of the Universe and a powerful embodiment of the Supreme Divine Mother. The post Invoke Courage, Wisdom, And Harmony Through Worship Of Devi Bhubaneswari appeared first on Dharma .

Odisha govt employees to get September salary in advance

Bhubaneswar, Sep 24 (PTI) Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has directed officials to disburse the months salary of government employees on September 26 in view of the upcoming festivities. Usually, the salaries are disbursed at the end of the month, but with government offices set to remain closed from September 27 for the Durga Puja holidays, the early payment will allow them to meet requirements and make necessary purchases, an official release said. This is to encourage employees to take part in the nationwide Savings Festival after implementation of the GST 2.0 reforms, it said.

Bhubaneswar Youth Booked For Dangerous Reel Stunt On Moving Car; Vehicle Seized, Fine Imposed Under MV Act

Such violations are increasingly being detected through viral clips and citizen alerts. Once a video is flagged, enforcement teams trace the registration number, verify the vehicle owner, and swiftly impose penalties under the Motor Vehicles Act: Transport officials

Bhubaneswar-Cuttack-Puri-Paradip corridor to be driver behind Odisha's growth: NITI Aayog's Anna Roy

NITI Aayog highlighted the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack-Puri-Paradip Economic Region (BCPPER) corridor project's crucial role in Odisha's ambitious economic goals for 2036 and 2047. The initiative, aligned with the 'Viksit Bharat' vision, balances economic growth with cultural preservation. The roadmap identifies over 65 priority projects and 37 policy reforms, urging collaboration for timely implementation.

Odisha Clears Rs 25,380-cr Investment Proposals; 27 New Projects To Create 52,000 Jobs

The ceremony, held at the Agriculture Education Hall of OUAT in Bhubaneswar, was attended by industries minister Sampad Swain, chief secretary Manoj Ahuja, senior officials, and representatives of leading companies.

Eminent Poet And Writer Devdas Chhotray To Receive 46th Sarala Puraskar

The award, instituted by the IMFA Charitable Trust (IMPaCT), will be presented at a ceremony in Bhubaneswar on October 26.

AIIMS Bhubaneswar ranked 14th best medical college in India

AIIMS Bhubaneswar has achieved a top 100 rank in India. The institute secured 14th position among medical colleges in the NIRF 2025 rankings. This marks a significant improvement from previous years. AIIMS Bhubaneswar has shown progress in infrastructure, patient care, education, and research. The Executive Director credits the institute's family for this achievement.

Only 4 per cent of global clinical trials are conducted in India, despite a 20 per cent disease burden

NEW DELHI: India accounts for 17% of the worlds population and 20% of the global disease burden, yet fewer than four percent of international clinical trials are conducted in the country. This gap means Indian patients often wait years after global approvals to access breakthrough therapies. Now, a new initiative, aligning it with Central Drugs StandardControl Organisations (CDSCO) priorities to boost participation of government sites in Phase 3 and 4 trials, has trained nearly 400 professionals, including investigators, ethics committee members and support staff to meet the global Good Clinical Practice (GCP) standards. The initiative is aimed at strengthening Indias role in global clinical research and facilitating faster patient access to breakthrough therapies. Launched by Roche Pharma India, the company on Saturday announced the successful completion of its first phase of the Advanced Inclusive Research (AIR) Site Alliance initiative in India, in which it partnered with 10 leading government hospitals from across the country. This milestone marks a significant step forward in strengthening Indias readiness to participate in global and local clinical trials, enabling faster patient access to breakthrough therapies and ensuring Indias diverse population is better represented in clinical research, said the company. Launched in 2023, the initiative focused on streamlining internal processes, building digital readiness for better data capture and monitoring and delivering tailored training programs to enhance operational efficiency. By equipping leading government hospitals with global-standard clinical trial capabilities, we are helping to bring innovations faster to India. This is a crucial step toward building equitable healthcare and shaping treatments that are relevant for India, said Dr Sivabalan Sivanesan, Country Medical Director, Roche Pharma India. Dr Amit Sehrawat, Associate Professor, Medical Oncology and Haematology, AIIMS, Rishikesh, said, This initiative is a strong example of how publicprivate partnerships can accelerate capacity-building and strengthen Indias clinical research ecosystem. India carries a significant burden of cancer, infectious and chronic diseases, yet has historically been underrepresented in global trials. By enabling government hospitals to participate in cutting-edge research, this program ensures Indian patients are part of the evidence generation process helping make treatments safer, more effective and relevant for our population. Dr Vyunkta Raju K N, Professor, Dept of Paediatric Neurology, Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health, said: The AIR Site Alliance program has been transformational. Our investigators and ethics committees are now better equipped to conduct research of global standards. This collaboration has given our institutions new opportunities to bring advanced research directly to our patients. The 10 hospitals, which are part of this initiative are: AIIMS, Rishikesh; Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi; PGIMS, Rohtak; Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital & Research Center, Muzaffarpur; Balco Medical Centre, Raipur; Government Medical College, Aurangabad; Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health, Bengaluru; Dr. Bhubaneswar Borooah Cancer Institute (BBCI), Guwahati; Kalyan Singh Super Speciality Cancer Institute & Hospital, Lucknow and Acharya Harihar Post Graduate Institute of Cancer, Cuttack. The project aligns closely with Indias national priorities, including the CDSCOs encouragement for greater participation of government sites in Phase 3 and 4 trials and the Pharmaceutical Research and Innovation Policy (PRIP) initiative that explicitly encouraged industry-academia partnerships to strengthen R&D capabilities, build clinical trial infrastructure and enhance Indias global competitiveness in innovative research, the company said. This initiative supports the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047 - creating a future-ready, world-class healthcare ecosystem where India emerges as a global hub for clinical research, accelerates access to breakthrough innovations, and delivers equitable health outcomes for every citizen, it added. The AIR Site Alliance is Roches flagship global initiative designed to expand access to clinical trials for underrepresented populations. Already implemented in the US, UK, Canada, and Africa, the AIR Site Alliance is now active in India, helping to close representation gaps, generate more robust scientific evidence and accelerate equitable healthcare outcomes worldwide, the company added.

22 nations to compete in Asian Table Tennis Championships in Bhubaneswar from Oct 11

New Delhi, Sep 13: After the UAEs withdrawal, 22 nations have now confirmed participation in the 28th ITTF-ATTU Asian Table Tennis Team Championships in Bhubaneswar, with more than 500 participants expected, organisers said. The event, set for October 11-15 at Kalinga Stadium, marks the first time Odisha will host an Asian-level table tennis championship. The Odisha State Table Tennis Association will welcome over 500 participants, including 450 players and support staff, as well as 7080 Asian Table Tennis Union officials. [] The post 22 nations to compete in Asian Table Tennis Championships in Bhubaneswar from Oct 11 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

BJD suspends ex-Odisha minister Prafulla Kumar Mallik for anti-party activities

BHUBANESWAR, Sep 12: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Friday suspended former Odisha minister and senior leader Prafulla Kumar Mallik for his alleged involvement in anti-party activities. The partys action came a day after Mallik, considered to be a close confidant of BJD president Naveen Patnaik, said that he might quit the regional outfit if it does not function properly. BJD vice-president (headquarters) Pratap Jena, in an order, said, Sri Prafulla Kumar Mallik, Ex-MLA Kamakhyanagar, District- Dhenkanal, is hereby suspended [] The post BJD suspends ex-Odisha minister Prafulla Kumar Mallik for anti-party activities appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

AIIMS unveils AI-powered mental health programme for students

AIIMS Delhi introduces 'Never Alone', an AI mental health program. It aims to prevent student suicides. The app offers 24/7 screening and counselling. It connects students with support anonymously. The initiative starts at AIIMS Delhi, Bhubaneswar, and IHBAS Shahdara. Expansion to other AIIMS is planned. The goal is to reduce stigma and provide immediate help.

Lightning strike damages navigation system at Raipur airport; flight operations hit

RAIPUR: Flight operations were disrupted after lightning strike damaged an aircraft navigation system at Raipur airport, an official said. As many as five IndiGo flights were diverted to various nearby airports due to the damage to the DVOR (Doppler VHF Omnidirectional Range) system at the Swami Vivekananda Airport on Wednesday evening, he said. All flight landings were suspended due to the DVOR system getting hit by lightning in the evening. As a result, five IndiGo flights that were scheduled to land at the Raipur airport were diverted to nearby airports, including Nagpur and Bhubaneswar, the official said on Wednesday. Repair works are underway, and flight operations from the airport are likely to resume by Thursday, he informed. A ground-based radio navigation system, DVOR helps aircraft determine their position and direction relative to a destination.

Scientists Flag Funding Delays at Niti Meet

On the first day of the two-day event, IIM Bhubaneswar representatives highlighted that second and third grant instalments were often delayed by six months, forcing institutes to take internal loans.

ICMR licenses its multi-stage malaria vaccine AdFalciVax to five companies

New Delhi, Sep 10: The ICMR has licensed its multi-stage malaria vaccine AdFalciVax to five companies Indian Immunologicals Limited, Techinvention Lifecare Private Limited, Panacea Biotec Limited, Biological E Limited, and Zydus Lifesciences. This was announced at the India MedTech Expo 2025 held in the national capital recently. The AdFalciVax, Indias first indigenous multi-stage malaria recombinant vaccine developed by the Regional Medical Research Centre (RMRC) in Bhubaneswar under the ICMR, can prevent plasmodium falciparum infection in individuals and minimise its [] The post ICMR licenses its multi-stage malaria vaccine AdFalciVax to five companies appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Special train between Hyderabad and Bhubaneswar via Duvvada

Society can only advance if women get respect, opportunities: Speaker

BHUBANESWAR: Speaker of Odisha Legislative Assembly Surama Padhy on Sunday called upon women to step forward and make their mark in every sphere of the society. Presenting the 33rd Devi Awards, instituted by The New Indian Express, here, Padhy said women are the cornerstone of the society. A society truly advances when its women are respected and given opportunities, she said. She said the real development of women is possible through their participation and inclusion in education, health, employment, social security and politics. When women become self-reliant and experience economic growth, it lends speed and strength to development and progress of the entire country, starting from individual families. I hope women will step forward and make their mark in every sphere of society. They should strive to become unique and self-sufficient, and set an example for others. Ultimately, they will contribute to building a prosperous and developed India, Padhy added. Recalling the great contribution of iconic leader and social reformer, Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, whose 300th birth anniversary was celebrated recently, Padhy said she was an exemplary leader who introduced a model of good governance in which the poor and the marginalised were given utmost priority. She is a symbol of the idea that with willpower and firm resolve, no matter how adverse the circumstances, one can achieve remarkable outcomes. Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee was another visionary leader who not only conceptualised the idea of Gold Quadrilateral project but implemented it successfully linking the entire country. Very few people today know that Ahilyabai unified the country by linking all Char Dhams (four sacred pilgrimage sites) by roads, she added. A former minister and the only woman from Odisha to serve as the national president of BJPs Mahila Morcha, Padhy said it is a matter of regret that not many people of Odisha are aware about the life and legacy of Ahilyabai simply because there is no book in Odia written about her. I earnestly appeal that one of our women litterateurs take up the challenge to write on the life and history of Ahilyabai who represents the power of Nari Shakti through her enduring legacy of devotion, good governance and commitment to social reforms, Padhy said. On this occasion of Devi Awards, I expect that women should come forward to protect the dignity of their folk and strengthen them to fight injustice in all forms. This award ceremony by TNIE will certainly inspire the women of the state in such endeavour, she said. The fourth edition of Devi Awards in Odisha honoured 14 trailblazing women from the cross-section of the society, who have stood out through their achievements, excellence and impact. They included conservation architect Vijaya Amujure, the first girl from the primitive Didayi community to crack NEET Champa Raseda, disability activist Gargi Bhattacharya, farmer and preserver of Shree Anna (millets) Raimati Ghuria, ENT specialist Dr Smruti Swain, globally-acclaimed Odissi exponent Sujata Mohapatra, entrepreneur and innovator Minushri Madhumita, scientist Jyotirmayee Dash, social activist Nibedita Lenka, chef Madhusmita Soren and the valorous forest guard who captured 17 poachers Khirabdi Seth. Lacquer doll craftsperson Kanakalata Das and award winning Ollywood actor Archita Sahu were honoured in-absentia while the aunt of Odishas sprint queen Srabani Nanda received the award on her behalf. Editorial director of TNIE Prabhu Chawla, The New Indian Express Group CEO Lakshmi Menon and resident editor of TNIE Odisha Siba Mohanty were present.

Age no bar so long as capable leaders with credibility run the country: Ram Madhav at OLF

BHUBANESWAR: With a debate taking shape on the merit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi continuing in active politics even after attaining 75 years of age and the post-Modi era, strategic thinker, author and former national general secretary of BJP Ram Madhav said age should not be a barrier so long as the leaders are capable with credibility. In a conversation with senior journalist Kaveree Bamzai on Hindutva Paradigm: A new definition at the concluding day of the Odisha Literary Festival-2025 here on Sunday, Madhav said Modi is the leader of the whole country and he is leading it in a visionary way. Those who are capable and run the country efficiently should continue. In a country as diverse as India, you need a person with experience and credibility. He is doing an excellent job. I would not say that people over 75 years of age should quit politics and go away, was Madhavs cryptic reply. Citing the example of ex-President of USA Ronald Reagan, the author said his young opponent questioned the formers ability to run for the presidency during the 1979 election because of his old age. Reagan said his job is to exploit the talents of the youth of the country. With the prime minister always being in a hurry to achieve his goals, Madhav, who is the president of think tank India Foundation, said there is nothing wrong in it. To be in a hurry is not wrong. There will be occasions when you need to be in a hurry. We have to race forward, otherwise we will be left out. We need to go out of the curve to meet out targets, he stressed. Citing the example of China, Madhav said, two decades ago the leaders of the country decided to push everything to be where they are today. There was no ifs and buts. The prime minister set out his goals from the ramparts of the Red Fort. He is pushing the country fast to achieve them. He cannot achieve his mission alone. It requires a whole-of-the-nation approach. The positive outcome of Modis approach is that now states have been setting targets to become trillion dollar economy, he said. We have the ability, capability and the strength to build a strong economy, robust security and a dignified India. We have to be practical. Prosperity of India requires strategic action, sustained efforts and realistic planning, not romanticism, the RSS leader underlined. Coming down heavily on the Congress for constantly attacking constitutional bodies, Madhav said all independent institutions of the country including the Election Commission are under fire for furthering its petty political gains at the cost of the nation. How it is possible for the EC to take out selective people from the voters list? he wondered.

Odisha: Cow vigilante attack dairy farmers over religious identity

Four dairy farmers were allegedly attacked by cow vigilantes in Palasuni locality of Odishas capital city, Bhubaneswar, on Saturday, September 6, leading to the death of a calf. Bichitrandra Behera from Alipingal village in Jagatsinghpur district said he and other dairy farmers purchased cows from Andhra Pradesh under the Kamadhenu Yojana, a five-year initiative by 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 CMs Flight Diverted To Kolkata Amid Heavy Rain In Bhubaneswar

Housing and urban development minister Krushnachandra Mahapatra confirmed the development, saying the diversion was precautionary and routine under such circumstances

Odia Music Director Abhijit Majumdar Slips Into Coma, Admitted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar

On ventilator at AIIMS Bhubaneswar after slipping into coma, doctors say condition unstable.

RIR Power to commence commercial production of semiconductor chip next March, says Odishas Principal Secretary for IT

RIR Power was accorded fiscal support of 32.56 crore for Phase 1 of their two-phase project for silicon carbide manufacturing plant in the Bhubaneswar

'Snacks And Sweets Starting At Just Rs 20': UDAN Yatri Cafe Launched At Bhubaneswar Airport

The cafe at Bhubaneswar Airport aims to make air travel more inclusive by addressing passenger concerns over expensive food inside terminals.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan lauds NCERT for modules on partition horrors, Op Sindoor

NEW DELHI: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Monday lauded the National Council for Educational Research and Technology (NCERT) for its recent modules on the horrors of partition as well as Operation Sindoor. Taking part in a function held to mark the 65th Foundation Day of NCERT at its campus in Aurobindo Marg, Pradhan said, NCERTs efforts to highlight Operation Sindoor through a new module is appreciable. A similar effort has been made with the partition horrors. This also deserves much appreciation. Should the country forget about the horrors that happened? If we do not know what has happened in the past and connect it with our present, then we will remain misguided in the future. We will be confused in the future, he said. The module released for classes VI to VIII on August 15 resulted in a war of words between the Congress and the BJP. It generated much controversy as it held Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the Congress and Viceroy Lord Mountbatten responsible for the partition. Pradhan called for the introduction of Artificial Intelligence in the Education system and the need to integrate digitalisation into it. He repeatedly lauded NCERT for the role they have played and continues to play in nation-building through their textbooks. NCERT books are the ones that everyone goes for any reference, the Minister said. He launched several new initiatives, including: Newly constructed entrance complex of the NCERT campus Primers in Hindi, Sanskrit, Ho-Hindi, and Koya, developed by the Central Institute of Indian Languages, Mysuru, and NCERT PM eVidya mobile application for accessing all key digital and broadcast initiatives PM eVidya DTH TV Channel No. 35 for Bal Vatika Virtual Reality labs at four schools, including Ajmer, Bhopal, and Bhubaneswar DIKSHA 2.0 with structured lessons and AI tools like Read Aloud, Closed Captioning, and translation of text into 12 languages Prashast 2.0 , enhancing mobile and web platforms for early identification of children with disabilities Kitab Ek Padhe Anek , to create Universal Design of Learning-based accessible digital and printed textbooks for inclusive classrooms, especially for divyangjan students and children from disadvantaged groups Utkal Jananinkarag Sujogya Santana , a book on 100 great personalities of Odisha who contributed to modern Odishas development and the National Freedom Movement Handbook on vocational education for key functionaries

Ganesh Immersion Turns Tragic in Odisha; 1 Killed

Violence, electrocution and drowning incidents mar festivities in Nayagarh, Bhubaneswar, Puri and Cuttack

Odisha to Launch Affordable Housing in Bhubaneswar, Units from 14 Lakh

Mahapatra said the scheme is aimed at easing the burden of high property prices in the state capital, where homes often cost over 1 crore.

Parliamentary Committee To Draft Vision 2025 Bhubaneswar For SC/ST Development: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla

7080% of recommendations from previous conferences implemented through policy frameworks: Reports

Body Found In Train Toilet In Bhubaneswar Railway Station

Police on Saturday recovered the body of a man from the toilet of the Bhubaneswar-Tirupati Superfast Express at Bhubaneswar railway station, an officer said.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla stresses role of House panels amidst decline in debate standards

BHUBANESWAR, Aug 29: Expressing concern over the declining quality of debates in legislatures, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Friday underscored the vital role of House committees in national progress, urging them to frame recommendations keeping in view the changing requirements. Speaking at the inauguration of the two-day National Conference of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Welfare Committees of Parliament and State/UT Legislatures, Birla said theres a need to focus on inclusive development and cater to the aspirations of marginalised [] The post Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla stresses role of House panels amidst decline in debate standards appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Speaker Om Birla flags decline in standards of debate

At SC/ST welfare meet in Bhubaneswar, calls for equity-based nation ensuring rights of Dalits, tribals, marginalised sections

Motivational Speaker, Professional Burglar: Bhubaneswar YouTuber Arrested For Theft

Bhubaneswar YouTuber Manoj Singh, who ran Change Your Life, was arrested for multiple thefts.

YouTuber By Day, Burglar By Night: Bhubaneswar Police Nab 'Change Your Life' Influencer

A self-help YouTuber, Manoj Singh, was arrested in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, for his involvement in over ten theft cases.

LS Speaker Om Birla calls for inclusive system of governance for development of all classes

BHUBANESWAR: Speaker of the Lok Sabha Om Birla on Friday called for an an inclusive system of governance for the development of all classes of people. Inaugurating the national conference of chairpersons of Committees on Welfare of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes of Parliament and state assemblies here, the Lok Sabha Speaker said, To take the country forward, we have to take people from all walks of life together. Stating that everybody should get justice and equal rights, Birla said there is need for a review of the budget allocations for SCs and STs. It is necessary to think about which schemes will benefit the tribals and dalits, he added. Addressing the conference, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said that the upliftment of the SCs and STs is necessary for the all-around development of the country. Stating that tribals and dalits constitute 40 per cent of Odisha's population, the chief minister said that the state government has increased the budget for the SC, ST welfare department to Rs 68,881 crore in 2025-26. Stating that the Odisha government has initiated several programmes for the development of SCs and STs in the state, the chief minister said three lakh Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTGs) from 14 districts of the state have been included in PM Janman scheme. He said that the government has planned several projects for the development of the tribals and added that a processing unit for forest products will be set up in the state soon. The chief minister said that 15 Ekalavya schools have been set up by the government in which five lakh students are studying while staying in hostels. Besides, the government has also decided to start teaching in all tribal languages. The two-day national seminar will deliberate on strengthening constitutional safeguards for the tribals. Besides, it will also highlight the pivotal role of parliamentary and state legislature committees in ensuring accountability in the implementation of welfare policies with the vision of realising an inclusive Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Om Birla Inaugurates National Conference of SC & ST Welfare Committees in Bhubaneswar

For the first time since its inception, the conference is being held outside New Delhi

Om Birla inaugurates National Conference of SC & ST Welfare Committees

BHUBANESWAR, Aug 29: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Friday inaugurated the National Conference of Scheduled Castes and Tribes Welfare Committees of Parliament and State/Union Territories Legislatures here. Birla opened the two-day conference here in the presence of Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi, Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh and Parliamentary Committee on Welfare of SC and ST Chairperson Faggan Singh Kulaste. Odisha Assembly Speaker Surama Padhy and [] The post Om Birla inaugurates National Conference of SC & ST Welfare Committees appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

4 NE cities among 7 safest for women in India; Ranchi, Srinagar get lowest scores: NARI survey

A recent survey across 31 major Indian cities reveals significant disparities in women's safety. Kohima, Visakhapatnam, and Bhubaneswar lead as the safest, while Ranchi and Srinagar lag behind. The 'NARI 2025' index highlights that a considerable percentage of women feel unsafe, particularly at night, with harassment prevalent in neighborhoods and transport, and a majority of incidents going unreported.

Mumbai, Kohima Safest For Women; Patna, Jaipur, Delhi Least Safe: Report

Kohima, Bhubaneswar, and Mumbai have emerged as the safest cities in the country for women, while Kolkata, Srinagar and Ranchi were ranked the lowest, according to the National Annual Report & Index on Women's Safety 2025.'

Caught on CCTV: Two Women Flee with Deceased Youths Phone in Bhubaneswar

According to police sources, the body of a young man was discovered under suspicious circumstances.

Kohima, Visakhapatnam, Bhubaneswar rated safest cities for women; Patna, Jaipur among lowest in NARI 2025 index

NEW DELHI: Kohima, Visakhapatnam, Bhubaneswar, Aizawl, Gangtok, Itanagar and Mumbai have emerged as the safest cities in the country for women, while Patna, Jaipur, Faridabad, Delhi, Kolkata, Srinagar and Ranchi were ranked the lowest, according to the National Annual Report & Index on Women's Safety (NARI) 2025. The nationwide index released on Thursday, based on a survey of 12,770 women across 31 cities, placed the national safety score at 65 per cent, categorising cities as much above, above, at, elow or much below this benchmark. Kohima and other top-ranked cities were associated with stronger gender equity, civic participation, policing and women-friendly infrastructure. At the other end of the spectrum, cities like Patna and Jaipur fared poorly due to weak institutional responsiveness, patriarchal norms and gaps in urban infrastructure. Kohima, Vishakhapatnam, Bhubaneswar, Aizawl, Gangtok, Itanagar, Mumbai lead national safety rankings, often correlating with higher gender equity, infrastructure, policing, or civic participation while Ranchi, Srinagar, Kolkata, Delhi, Faridabad, Patna, and Jaipur scored lowest, correlating with poorer infrastructure, patriarchal norms, or weaker institutional responsiveness, the report said. Overall, six in ten women surveyed felt safe in their city, but 40 per cent still considered themselves ot so safe or unsafe. The study revealed sharp drops in perceptions of safety at night, particularly in public transport and recreational spaces. Educational institutions (86 per cent safe) especially in daylight, but safety perceptions fall sharply at night or off-campus. About 91 per cent of women reported safety, yet about half were unclear if their workplace had a POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) policy; those with such policies generally rated them as effective. Only one-fourth of women said they trusted authorities to act effectively on safety complaints. While 69 per cent said current safety efforts were somewhat adequate, over 30 per cent noted significant gaps or failures; only 65 per cent perceived real improvement over the years 2023-2024. Seven per cent of women said they experienced harassment in public spaces in 2024, with the figure doubling to 14 per cent among those under 24. Neighbourhoods (38 per cent) and public transport (29 per cent) were most often flagged as harassment hotspots. Yet, only one in three victims came forward to report the incidents. The report stressed that official crime data alone cannot reflect women's lived reality. Two out of three women do not report harassment, meaning NCRB misses the bulk of incidents, the study said, calling for integration of crime data with perception-based surveys like NARI. Launching the report, National Commission for Women (NCW) chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar said safety cannot be seen merely as a law-and-order issue but as one that affects every aspect of a woman's life whether it is her education, health, work opportunities and freedom of movement. She added that when women feel unsafe, hey limit themselves, and women limiting themselves is not only for their own development, but also for the development of the country. She emphasised that a safe environment was crucial for building a developed and inclusive India, pointing to four dimensions of women's security of physical, psychological, financial and digital nature. It is our responsibility to protect women not just from crimes on the streets but also from cybercrimes, economic discrimination and mental harassment, Rahatkar noted. Highlighting positive measures, she praised the growing presence of women police officers and female drivers in public transport as effective confidence-building steps. In many Union Territories, 33 per cent of police personnel are now women, and this has made a decisive difference in building trust, she said. She also lauded initiatives such as women's helplines, CCTV coverage in smart cities, and improved safety networks at railway stations and bus depots. At the same time, Rahatkar urged society at large to share responsibility. We often blame the system, but we must also ask what we have done. Whether it is using helplines, supporting awareness drives, or simply keeping public toilets clean, society's role is equally important, she said. The NARI index has been conceived by The NorthCap University and Jindal Global Law School and is published by the Group of Intellectuals and Academicians (GIA).

Air India flight from Delhi to Raipur diverted to Bhubaneswar

NEW DELHI: An Air India flight carrying 161 flyers from Delhi to Raipur in Chhattisgarh was diverted to Bhubaneswar on Wednesday due to poor visibility at Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur. Flight AI 2793 departed at 5.37 am from Terminal 3 of the Indira Gandhi International Airport. The flight was about to make its descent at the Raipur airport when the Air Traffic Control asked it not to do so due to poor visibility and to head to Bhubaneswar. It reached Bhubaneswar airport at 8.15 am. It departed at 9.21 am from there after information was received that the weather had improved at Raipur airport, said a source. In a statement, Air India said, Flight AI 2793 from Delhi to Raipur on 27 August was diverted to Bhubaneswar due to poor weather conditions in Raipur. The aircraft subsequently operated to its destination, Raipur, once the weather improved. The statement added, At Air India, the safety of all passengers and crew remains our top priority. No flights for third day at Leh airport Meanwhile, flyers, including a large chunk of those from different parts of the country who had gone to Leh as tourists continued to stay put at hotels in Leh as flights were not operated from the airport for the third consecutive day on Wednesday. A NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) was again issued on Wednesday in connection with closure of the runway at the Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport as it was not in a condition to operate flights, said an airline source. Air India had put out a travel advisory in the morning that all its flights were cancelled for the day to and from Leh airport due to adverse weather conditions. A source said that the weather conditions appear to be improving and there was a possibility of operations resuming from Thursday but they need to wait until the morning to finalise it.

Odisha YouTuber missing for five days after being swept away in Duduma waterfall currents

BHUBANESWAR: A 22-year-old YouTuber from Odisha's Berhampur city has been missing for five days after he was swept away by the strong currents of the Duduma waterfall in Koraput district while shooting reels, police said on Wednesday. A search operation by a team of disaster management and fire brigade personnel is underway, but he has not been traced, a senior officer said. According to the police, the YouTuber, identified as Sagar Kundu, along with his friends, visited the 175-metre Duduma waterfall on August 23 to shoot short videos. #Odisha | A 22-year-old YouTuber from Berhampur was swept away in the strong currents of Duduma waterfall under Machkund police limits in Koraput district on Saturday. The missing youth has been identified as Sagar Kundu, a resident of Niladri Nagar in Berhampur. pic.twitter.com/QJuwfvVhws The New Indian Express (@NewIndianXpress) August 25, 2025 Despite repeated warnings from his friends about the rising water level, Kundu ventured into the waterfall, the officer said. Suddenly, there was a surge due to water being released from the Machkund dam. Kundu was swept away by the strong currents, and those at the spot tried to rescue him but failed, the police said, citing a video of the incident, which went viral on social media. Kundu was requesting me with folded hands for rescue. He threw the camera and other equipment, but we were not able to rescue him, the YouTuber's friend Abhijit Behera said. Sagar's father, Sarthak Kundu requested the local administration to trace him. Machkund Police Station inspector in-charge (IIC) Madhusudan Bhoi said a search operation has been launched by a team of Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) and Lamtaput Fire Service personnel. We have so far recovered a bag containing batteries and other equipment which he had thrown into the water moments before being swept away. The rescue operation in the hilly area has been challenging because of the rugged and rocky terrain and incessant rainfall, the IIC said. Umesh Chandra Bagh, a fire service officer, said, We have requested the Machkund dam authorities to close the gates of the reservoir. Once the water level recedes, it will help us carry out the search operation. Duduma is one of the highest waterfalls in Odisha and a popular tourist destination, located near the Odisha-Andhra Pradesh border

Half of pregnant, lactating women in Bhubaneswar slums use smokeless tobacco on waking

Researchers warn SLT use during pregnancy heightens the risks, like preterm births, stillbirth, babies with low birth weight, and small for gestational age.

WATCH - Bhubaneswars Club Chocolate creates unique 70-kg chocolate sculpture of PM Modi ahead of his birthday

Club Chocolate, a professional baking and fine patisserie school in Bhubaneswar, has crafted a 70-kg chocolate sculpture of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to mark his 75th birthday.

Naveen Patnaik discharged after hospitalisation for dehydration

Naveen Patnaik, BJD president and former Odisha CM, left a Bhubaneswar hospital. He was treated for dehydration. V K Pandian accompanied him home. Patnaik thanked the people, hospital staff, and leaders for their support. PM Narendra Modi and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge wished him well. Modi invited Patnaik to Delhi. Several ministers also visited him during his stay.

Nod to Rs 8.3K cr Bhubaneswar Bypass

NEW DELHI: The Union Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Tuesday approved two mega infrastructure projects, including one for Odisha and another for Rajasthan, with cumulative estimated cost of over `9,500 crore. Briefing media after the meeting of the CCEA, Information & Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the construction of a 6-lane access-controlled Capital Region Ring Road (Bhubaneswar Bypass) in Odisha with an estimated cost of Rs 8,307.74 crore has been approved. The nod has also been given to the construction of green-field Kota-Bundi airport in Rajasthan with a total estimated capital investment of Rs 1,507 crore, he added. The Minister said, the length of the ring road project for the twin capital city of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack would be 110.875 km and it would be developed on Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM). At present, the Rameshwar -Tangi stretch of the existing National Highway faces severe congestion due to heavy traffic moving through urban centres like Khordha, Bhubaneswar, and Cuttack. The new Greenfield ring road aims to divert heavy commercial vehicles away from these cities, thereby improving freight efficiency, reducing logistics costs, and promoting socio-economic development in Odisha and neighbouring eastern states, Vaishnaw said. The alignment will integrate with three National Highways (NH-55, NH-57, NH-655) and one State Highway (SH-65), offering seamless connectivity to economic and social hubs across the region, he said. It will also connect with 10 Economic Nodes, 4 Social Nodes, and 5 Logistic Nodes, along with key infrastructure such as Bhubaneswar Airport, Khordha Railway Station, a proposed Multi-Modal Logistics Park, and two major ports (Puri and Astrang), the Minister said. Later, in a statement, the government said that following the completion, the project is expected to generate 74.43 lakh person-days of direct employment and 93.04 lakh person-days of indirect employment, creating new opportunities for local communities. Meanwhile, the Union Cabinet also cleared the proposal for building a green field airport - Kota-Bundi - in Rajasthan, the Minister said, adding that it would be funded by the Airports Authority of India (AAI). For the airport, 1,089 acres of land has been provided free of cost by the Rajasthan government and the airport will have a capacity to handle 2 million passengers per annum, he said, while noting that the new aviation facility will significantly improve regional connectivity and promote the local economy. The AAI will fund the project through its internal accruals and is expected to be completed in 24 months. In the last 11 years the number of operational airports in the country has more than doubled to 162 in 2025 from 74 in 2014. Also, the number of air passengers has increased to 41.2 crore this year from 16.8 crore in 2014, the Minister noted.

Union Cabinet approves six-lane Bhubaneswar Bypass project for 8,307.74 crore

The upgraded corridor will enhance multi-modal integration by connecting with a major railway station, an airport, a proposed multi-modal logistics park (MMLP), and two major ports

Cabinet Okays Rs 1,507-Crore Kota-Bundi Airport, Rs 8,307-Crore Cuttack-Bhubaneswar Ring Road Projects

The nod for the two projects, cumulatively worth over Rs 9,800 crore, came during the Cabinet meeting chaired by PM Modi on Tuesday.

BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik stable, likely to be discharged on August 18: Hospital source

The former Odisha CM Patnaik was admitted to SUM Ultimate Medicare, Bhubaneswar, on August 17, 2025 due to dehydration