46th Edition Of 'Fit India Sundays On Cycle' Highlights Connection Between Fitness And Environment
The Central Pollution Control Board: The 46th edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle, called Pedal for Clean Air, became a strong rally for both fitness and environmental awareness today as nearly 500 citizens cycled through the streets of New Delhi and thousands more took part from over 10,000 locations across the country. The Central Pollution Control Board, the Centre for Science and Environment, and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports collaborate to promote clean air and healthy living. Organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in collaboration with the Cycling Federation of India (CFI), Yogasana Bharat, and MY Bharat, this weeks edition featured special participation from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), emphasising that Clean Air, Fit Body should be Indias shared goal. At Delhis Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, about 500 participants, including athletes, students, and fitness fans, joined the morning cycling rally. The event featured gymnasts Sneha Tariyal, an international medalist at the Asian Championships, and Priyanshu Nath Thakur, a sub-junior national gold medalist, alongside Olympian gymnastics coach Lakhan Sharma. CSE Director-General Sunita Narain, present at the event in Delhi, highlighted the strong link between physical fitness and environmental health. Our air has to be clean, and in the same way our health will improve, she said. The Sports Ministrys and SAIs Fit India initiatives go hand in hand with cleanliness of the environment. Our lungs will be healthy if the air is clean. Cycling is very essential because it is the biggest mechanism to combat pollution. Reflecting on her message, 15-year-old gymnast Priyanshu Nath Thakur stated, We are all looking for fresh air. Cycling keeps our body and mind healthy and strong. Beyond Delhi, Fit India Sundays on Cycle events took place simultaneously across the country, including locations such as SAI STC Kargil, SAI Lucknow, SAI Rohtak, STC Mastuana Sahib, STC Rajnandgaon (Chhattisgarh), STC Golaghat, NCOE Jagatpur, STC Cuttack, and SAI Guwahati. What began in December 2024 with around 500 participants in Delhi and 1,000 locations across the country has now evolved into a vibrant public movement that attracts over 50,000 people weekly from 6,000 locations. The Fit India Sundays on Cycle initiative has involved more than 14.5 lakh citizens across 1.25 lakh locations so far, developing into a nationwide campaign for fitness, sustainability, and social harmony. Olympic gymnastics coach Lakhan Sharma provided insights into the development of the movement over the years. This is a great initiative which is completing close to a year now. So many people have joined us across the length and breadth of the country in all these months, and we must keep expanding it further. Gymnast Sneha Tariyal highlighted that cycling offers benefits to all, no matter their age or profession. Old to young, everyone is here to cycle. It keeps you healthy and helps combat pollution. I see cyclists training daily at the IG Stadium where I train and it gives them great physique and strength. Even normal people should cycle, run, and stay fit to inspire others. The significance of Fit India Sundays on the Cycle was highlighted in the 117th episode of Honble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modis Mann Ki Baat. He praised how people from various backgrounds come together every Sunday to promote health, happiness, and unity through fitness. This movement is supported weekly by over 3,500 NaMo Fit India Cycling Clubs, which form the core of this citizen-driven fitness initiative, ensuring that thousands across India participate in cycling and health celebrations each Sunday. Gymnast Sneha Tariyal highlighted that cycling offers benefits to all, no matter their age or profession. Old to young, everyone is here to cycle. It keeps you healthy and helps combat pollution. I see cyclists training daily at the IG Stadium where I train and it gives them great physique and strength. Even normal people should cycle, run, and stay fit to inspire others. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score These diverse groups, representing various professions and generations, have expanded the campaigns reach across every part of the country, transforming local streets and parks into vibrant hubs of energy and camaraderie. Article Source: IANS
Two Minor Boys Missing in Kathajodi River
Search on after two children swept away while trying to retrieve cricket ball in Cuttack
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.
Cyclone Montha Impact: 43 Trains Cancelled Across East Coast Railway; Authorities On High Alert
The cancellations affect several major routes connecting key cities such as Visakhapatnam, Koraput, Kakinada, Guntur, Tirupati, Berhampur, Cuttack, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Chennai
A setback to Odishas secular ethos
The latest violence in Cuttack shows the government in poor light
NCLT orders insolvency proceedings against Bhilai Jaypee Cement
NEW DELHI, Oct 22: The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has directed for initiation of insolvency proceedings against Bhilai Jaypee Cement, a subsidiary of debt-ridden group Jaiprakash Associates Limited, for a default of Rs 45 crore. The direction of Cuttack bench of NCLT came after it admitted a plea filed by the companys operational creditor Sidhgiri Holdings Pvt Ltd, to which Bhilai Jaypee Cement owed Rs 45 crore against supply of coal. A two-member NCLT bench also appointed an [] The post NCLT orders insolvency proceedings against Bhilai Jaypee Cement appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
BJP MP Medha Kukrani purifies Pune fort with gaumutra after Muslim woman offers namaz
Rajya Sabha MP Medha Kulkarni led BJP workers on Sunday held a purification ceremony at the Shaniwar Wada in Pune after a viral video showed Muslim women offering Nazam at the fort. Shaniwarwada is a historic site. It is a symbol of our victory, the center from which the Maratha Empire expanded from Attock to Cuttack. If someone comes here and recites Namaz, we will not tolerate it, Kulkarni wrote on X and tagged Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, BJP national president and Union minister JP Nadda and state BJP chief Ravindra Chavan. Shaniwarwada is an ASI-protected historical monument. It is a symbol of Hindaviswarajya founded by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. We cannot allow anyone to offer namaz here. It is not a mosque, she said. ! . pic.twitter.com/uOErSBe5wz Dr. Medha Kulkarni (@Medha_kulkarni) October 19, 2025 On Saturday, a video of some Muslim women offering namaz at the Shaniwarwada Fort went viral on social media platforms which was followed by condemnation by BJP and several right wing organisation. The incident has sparked widespread outrage with leaders from various parties lashing out at the BJP. Ajit Pawar's NCP spokesperson Rupali Patil Thombre urging the police to file a case against her for trying to incite communal tension. She is raising the issue of Hindu versus Muslim, while both communities live together in harmony in Pune, Thombre said. Shaniwar Wada belongs to all Punekars, not to any one group or religion, he said. Maharashtra Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant expressed disbelief over the purification protest, wondering why they considered Shaniwar Wada a pilgrimage site. Sawant also said the Shaniwar Wada hosts Peshwa-era dargahs and added that the historical rulers had not taken issue with it. Seeing Muslim women offering namaz in Shaniwar Wada on Saturday, the BJP folks sprinkled cow urine on them, this sight makes one want to slap their forehead in disbelief. Does Shaniwar Wada seem like a pilgrimage site to them? Has anyone stopped you from sitting there and chanting jap? asked Congress senior spokesperson Sachin Sawant. . ?... ? pic.twitter.com/f8e0PqNqsK Sachin Sawant (@sachin_inc) October 20, 2025 Samajwadi Party leader Abu Asim Azmi also condemned the incident, saying , The BJP MP should have fear of Allah.This will not be tolerated.The Muslims in India sacrificed their lives for the nation.Those who advocated for the British, they are sitting in the power right now and will treat Muslims like this. They will get a befitting reply for this, Meanwhile, the police said that a case has been filed against the group of unidentified women who offered Nazam at the fort based on a complaint filed by a Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) officer. The police said they have also increased security at the fort.
Two Minor Boys Missing After Drowning Scare In Odishas Kathajodi River
Two boys, aged around 11 and 12, went missing after allegedly being swept away by strong currents in the Kathajodi River near Cuttack on Sunday afternoon.
Communal tensions: Odisha CM Majhi blames 'vested interests' for tarnishing state's Image
Odisha CM Mohan Majhi has blamed vested interests for attempts to tarnish the state's peaceful image amidst rising law and order concerns. Recent incidents, including communal tensions in Cuttack and the murder of a BJP leader in Berhampur, have drawn criticism. The CM has directed police to stay vigilant and engage with community leaders to ensure peace.
BJP Govt in Odisha reacts sharply to W.B. CMs comment on Cuttack communal violence
Number of arrests has gone up to nine following fresh arrests of three persons in connection with the violence
Cuttack Violence: Three More Arrested, Total Rises To Nine
Police intensified their probe into the incident, which occurred during the Dussehra idol immersion procession in the Hatipokhari and Kadam Rasul areas
Odishas Cuttack Clash: CM Reviews Law and Order, Warns Mischief-Makers
City returns to normalcy; people venture out to join offices, for work
Cuttack Baliyatra grounds declared 'no drone zone' from November 1-15 for mega fair
Cuttack district administration has declared Baliyatra grounds and surrounding areas a 'no drone zone' from November 1 to 15 for security during the upcoming mega fair. This measure, covering a 5-kilometer radius, prohibits drones and other aerial devices to prevent potential threats and ensure public safety for the estimated 50 lakh visitors.
Odisha: Chaos in Cuttack During Durga Puja, as Procession Clashes Spiral Into Violence
A historic city known for centuries of communal harmony faces a 36-hour curfew and internet shutdown after clashes during Durga idol immersion; authorities vow arrests as VHP rally escalates tensions, leaving 31 injured.
Curfew relaxed in Cuttack; restrictions still in place
The administration has suspended internet services for 48 hours till 7 p.m. on October 7 to prevent anti-social elements from misusing the facility to spread rumours and disturb communal harmony
Cuttack Violence: Police Arrest Man For Spreading Rumours On Social Media Amid Curfew
Accused Pradeep Chandra Sahu posted objectionable and caste-based content on social media.
Internet Ban Extended In Odisha's Cuttack After Clashes During Durga Idol Immersion | Top Updates
The bandh call was given by VHP alleging police inaction on the miscreants who created violence during Durga idol immersion procession.
Odisha: 8 arrested after Cuttack clashes; internet ban, curfew extended for another...
Additional Police Commissioner Narasingha Bhola announced that internet restrictions in Cuttack have been extended for another 24 hours, with a curfew in place until 10 am tomorrow.
Eight arrested in connection with Cuttack violence, bandh underway amid heavy security
Eight people were arrested in Cuttack following violence during a 12-hour bandh called by the VHP. The arrests stem from Sunday's attack on police by VHP activists, which injured senior officers. The situation remains under control with heavy security and prohibitory orders in place.
Cuttack clash: VHP bandh peaceful; internet ban, curfew extended
Cuttack: The dawn-to-dusk bandh in violence-hit Cuttack called by the VHP on Monday passed off peacefully amid heavy security deployment, while the district administration extended the suspension of internet services till 7 PM on October 7. The bandh call was given by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) alleging police inaction on the miscreants who created 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 extends Internet shutdown in Cuttack for another 24 hours as precautionary measure
Officials said the extension was a precautionary measure to prevent any possible flare-up or spread of misinformation that could reignite tensions
Suspension of internet services in violence-hit Cuttack extended till 7 pm of Oct 7
Internet services in Cuttack have been extended until October 7. This follows violent incidents during Durga idol immersion last week. The district administration cited the misuse of social media for spreading provocative messages. Two clashes injured 31 people, including police. Authorities aim to prevent further disturbances and maintain peace.
Cuttack Turns Communal: Internet Suspended, 24-Hr Social Media Ban After Clashes
VHP was denied permission for the rally, said police. The police and VHP clashed in Odisha's Cuttack on Sunday.
Cuttack violence: Eight arrested; bandh under way amid heavy security
Commissioner of Police S. Dev Datta Singh said the situation is under control
Odisha: Clashes erupt during Durga idol immersion over loud music
Clashes erupted between Hindus and Muslims during Durga idol immersions in Cuttack, Odisha over loud music being played during a procession while it was passing a dargah on October 4. The tense situation led to a 36-hour curfew and internet shut down in the city. The incident occurred between 1:30-2:00 AM when the Durga idol 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 .
Internet Blackout, Curfew Imposed After Violence: Why Is Cuttack Under Lockdown?
Authorities also ordered the suspension of internet and messaging services including WhatsApp, Facebook, X, Instagram, and Snapchat, from 7 pm Sunday to 7 pm Monday.
Tension palpable in violence-hit Cuttack, heavy security deployed amid 12-hour bandh
Cuttack city faced tension on Monday. A 12-hour bandh was underway amid prohibitory orders. Violence erupted during Durga Puja immersion processions. Clashes between VHP activists and police followed. Internet services were suspended. Police forces were deployed across the city. Entry restrictions were imposed. Authorities reported no incidents.
Cuttack clashes: 36-hour long curfew imposed, 60 platoons of police forces deployed
Director General of Police Yogesh Bahadur Khurania appeals to the people to avoid rumours and check the websites of the police and the Commissionerate and the Twitter handles to understand any facts related to the incident
Cuttack news: Cuttack experienced fresh violence on Sunday, injuring 25 people, following clashes that began Friday during an idol immersion procession over loud music. Authorities imposed prohibitory orders in 13 police areas and suspended internet services to curb inflammatory messages. Six arrests have been made, and the VHP has called for a bandh.
Cuttack bandh: 36-hour curfew, internet banned; city on edge after violent clashes - Key points
Cuttack witnessed fresh communal tensions and violent clashes on Sunday. Police denied permission for a bike rally, leading to stone pelting and arson. At least 25 people, including eight police personnel, sustained injuries. Authorities imposed a 36-hour curfew and suspended internet services. The chief minister urged peace. The unrest began during a Durga idol immersion procession on Friday night.
Curfew, Internet Cut in Cuttack After Clashes
Fresh violence erupted on Sunday, a day after stone-pelting incidents occurred during Durga Puja immersion
Here is a select list of stories to start the day
Cuttack: Internet services suspended amid tensions over clashes during Durga idol immersion
In addition, the use of social media platforms has also been prohibited in the area. It will remain effective in the Cuttack Municipal Corporation, Cuttack Development Authority (CDA), and the 42 Mauza Region. Read on to know more on this.
Internet Banned, 36-Hour Curfew In Odisha's Cuttack After Clashes
Odisha's Cuttack, the thousand-year-old city long celebrated for its communal harmony, remained on edge on Sunday after fresh incidents of violence erupted following clashes during Durga Puja idol immersion two days earlier.
Internet Banned, Shops Vandalised: Clashes In Odisha's Cuttack
Odisha's Cuttack, the thousand-year-old city long celebrated for its communal harmony, remained on edge on Sunday after fresh incidents of violence erupted following clashes during Durga Puja idol immersion two days earlier.
VHP calls 12-hour bandh on Monday in Cuttack following Durga Puja violence
Cuttack experienced unrest on Sunday. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad announced a 12-hour bandh for Monday. This decision followed clashes during Durga Puja idol immersion. The VHP stated the administration failed to maintain peace. They sought the transfer of the DCP and district collector. The bandh aims to protest administrative actions.
Cuttack tense after violence during Durga idol immersion; VHP calls 12-hour bandh on Monday
According to officials, the violence erupted after some locals objected to high-decibel music being played during the procession
CM Majhi Urges Peace After Cuttack Clash During Durga Immersion
Calls for unity, warns of strict action against miscreants as tension simmers: Reports
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) had organised a motorcycle rally on Sunday evening despite orders from the district administration. Officials said CCTV cameras along the route were damaged and shops in the Gourishankar Park area were set on fire after police tried to stop the procession. Due to the tense law and order situation, the state government suspended internet services from 7 pm on Sunday to 7 pm on Monday.
Odisha govt imposes 24-hour social media ban in Cuttack amid communal tension
The Mohan Charan Majhi-led Odisha government imposed a temporary ban on social media platforms, including WhatsApp, Facebook, and X, across several parts of Cuttack. This restriction, effective from Sunday 7 pm to Monday 7 pm, followed violent clashes between two groups in the city. The ban covers the Cuttack Municipal Corporation, CDA, and 42 Mouza zones.
DCP among several injured in clash during idol immersion procession in Odisha's Cuttack, six held
The incident happened near Hatipokhari in the Daraghabazar area around 2 a.m., when the procession was heading to Debigara on the banks of the Kathajodi river, playing loud music, to which locals objected, they said
Container Truck Plunges Into Harabhangi Dam In Odishas Gajapati; Driver Escapes Unhurt
The truck, en route from Rayagada to Cuttack, reportedly lost control while negotiating a turn and veered off the road into the reservoir. The driver, who was travelling alone, had a narrow escape by jumping out of the vehicle just in time.
Odisha Man Travels 175 Km To Reconcile With Estranged Wife, Slits Her Throat In Public
The man travelled from Cuttack to Balasore to reconcile with his estranged wife but brutally attacked her in public.
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.
Monkey Stranded On Electric Pole In Cuttack, Rescued After 3 hours
What began as a curious sight soon turned into a tense rescue drama. The monkey, which had been leaping from tree to tree, suddenly scampered up the electric pole and froze. Onlookers watched in growing concern as the animal showed no signs of climbing down
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.
Out of 85 open heart surgeries performed since January 2025, as many as 26 patients did not survive
Ganesh Immersion Turns Tragic in Odisha; 1 Killed
Violence, electrocution and drowning incidents mar festivities in Nayagarh, Bhubaneswar, Puri and Cuttack
Odisha clerk amasses property 201% excess of his income
The government employee is in possession of 19 high-valued plots and building in and around Cuttack
221 Unsafe Buildings Identified in Cuttack, HC Orders Phased Demolition
The High Court has directed the administration to file a detailed affidavit and progress report by September 18. It has further warned that criminal proceedings will be initiated against occupants who defy eviction orders.
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.
The nod for the two projects, cumulatively worth over Rs 9,800 crore, came during the Cabinet meeting chaired by PM Modi on Tuesday.
Odisha Auto Driver Sexually Assaults Minor Girl, Threatens To Set Her On Fire
An autorickshaw driver was arrested for sexually assaulting a minor girl and allegedly threatening to set her on fire if she resisted in Odisha's Cuttack.
RSS chief Bhagwat says stray dog crisis needs population control not sheltering
CUTTACK: Amidst the raging controversy over the Supreme Court order , Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday said the stray dog crisis can be resolved by regulating the canine population, and not by sending the animals to shelter homes. All animals have the right to live, said Bhagwat, speaking at the birth anniversary celebrations of Srila Prabhupada and the centenary celebrations of Sri Sachchidananda Math organised by the Gaudiya Vaishnava Sammilani at Cuttack. He emphasised the fine equilibrium between man and nature. The crisis can be solved by regulating the street dog population and not by sending them to shelters, he said. While milking cows, Indians take some milk and leave the rest for the calf, which is an art of striking a balance between man and nature. Nature should be conserved by maintaining a balance between development and the environment, he said. Bhagwat went to Puri, where he visited the Shree Jagannath Temple to seek the blessings of the deities and then met Shankaracharya Nischalananda Saraswati. The RSS chief arrived here on Wednesday evening. He is scheduled to hoist the national flag at the Utkal Bipanna Sahayata Samiti office in the capital city and address the gathering on Independence Day. Stray dogs in Delhi: SC slams local authorities for inaction, reserves order
Odisha CM Mohan Majhi Leads Grand Tiranga Yatra In Cuttack
The rally, which began at Jhinkiria and culminated at Chanduli, transformed the streets into a sea of saffron, white and green. Participants including Cuttack Sadar MLA Prakash Chandra Sethi took part in both a foot march and a high-energy motorbike procession, drawing cheers from residents lining the route
Tortured in police custody, Odisha man attempts suicide
Jajpur: A 28-year-old man attempted suicide by consuming a poisonous substance after he was allegedly tortured in police custody in Odishas Jajpur district. Police said that the victim Rabindra Mallik, a resident of Mahipur village in Barachana block, is currently being treated at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack. His condition is stated to Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Former Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik slams govt for scrapping metro project
Naveen Patnaik criticizes the BJP government for halting the Bhubaneswar Metro project. He says it delays the city's progress. The previous plan was approved during Patnaik's term. The BJP defends its decision. They claim the old route was not practical. A broader Puri-Bhubaneswar-Cuttack route is now under consideration. A new plan is in progress to connect major cities.
Salary Withheld For College Staff In Odishas Cuttack Over ICC Report Lapses
The directive, issued by Cuttack District Collector Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde on July 21, comes after repeated reminders were ignored by a majority of the 210 degree and higher secondary colleges under his jurisdiction.
SC To Hear Plea Against Odishas Tiger Reserve plan
The petition seeks to quash provisional no objection certificates issued by the district collectors of Angul, Nayagarh, Boudh and Cuttack, which allegedly permit new construction within and around the reserve: Reports
SC agrees to hear plea against proposed constructions in Satkosia Tiger Reserve
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Wednesday agreed to hear a plea raising concerns over the alleged proposed constructions inside the Satkosia Tiger Reserve in Odisha. A bench comprising Chief Justice B R Gavai and Justices K Vinod Chandran and Joymalya Bagchi was urged by advocate Gaurav Kumar Bansal to hear the plea. The bench said it would hear the matter next week. Bansal raised concerns over reported permission granted by the local administration for eco-tourism related constructions within the protected area. The district collector has issued such permissions for construction of an eco-tourism spot. How can this be permitted? he said. I am just fighting for forests, Bansal added. The Satkosia Tiger Reserve, spread across the districts of Angul, Cuttack, Nayagarh and Boudh in Odisha, is a crucial habitat for tigers, elephants, and several endangered species. The plea sought quashing of provisional no objection certificates (NOC) issued by district collectors of Angul, Nayagarh, Boudh and Cuttack for development works inside and around the Satkosia Tiger Reserve. The petitioner argued it was without jurisdiction and in violation of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), the plea said, in April 2018 directed all states for mandatory delineation of eco-sensitive zones (ESZs) around tiger reserves. The plea said these directions clearly stipulated where a protected area formed part of the buffer, a minimum one kilometer ESZ must be demarcated around it. There are multiple large-scale and systemic issues affecting the ecological and legal integrity of Satkosia Tiger Reserve, which require independent attention and urgent consideration of this court, it said. In line with the NTCA's April 2018 direction, the petitioner said, the Odisha government recently submitted a draft proposal for declaration of ESZ around Satkosia Tiger Reserve to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change for final notification. However, the said draft, if approved in its current form, will seriously compromise the ecological integrity and conservation dignity of the tiger reserve, it alleged. The proposed tourism-centric development activities in and around the tiger reserve, including the construction of high-impact infrastructure and grant of arbitrary NOCs, were said to be contrary to the precautionary principle and violate the statutory framework under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The zero-kilometre ESZ boundary proposed in parts of Satkosia Tiger Reserve violates NTCA's 2018 directive, which mandates a minimum 1 km buffer from core tiger habitat wherever the buffer is absent or disjunct, the plea added. It claimed the issuance of no objection certificates by district collectors and non-forest authorities for tourism infrastructure within and around a notified tiger reserve constituted an unlawful usurpation of statutory powers reserved for designated authorities under the Wildlife (Protection) Act and violates the binding directives of the apex court. The plea alleged the actions of state government and its agencies exhibited a deliberate pattern of undermining central environmental regulations through procedural shortcuts and executive overreach, including attempts to modify ESZ notifications to dilute their protective scope for commercial tourism purposes. It also sought a direction to the state to withdraw the draft ESZ proposal relating to Satkosia Tiger Reserve.
In Odisha's Balasore, a 19-year-old student sustained burns while attempting to rescue his senior, who self-immolated following allegations of sexual harassment against a faculty member. The courageous student is currently receiving treatment at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack with 15% burns. The Chief Minister and Health Minister have assured the best possible medical care for him.
India moving from women empowerment to women-led development: President
CUTTACK, July 15: President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday said India was moving from women empowerment to women-led development. Addressing the 13th annual convocation of Ravenshaw University in Cuttack, she said female students outperforming their male classmates in 21 out of 27 departments of the varsity this year was a testament to it. Over the last five years, girl students have consistently outperformed boys in academics at the institute. At the post-graduate level, the number of girl students who topped was [] The post India moving from women empowerment to women-led development: President appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Centre set to approve 110-km Bhubaneswar bypass; road to connect Khurda and Cuttack
Odisha is poised to receive a significant infrastructure boost with a Rs 8,300 crore, 110-km six-lane Greenfield Capital Region Ring Road project. This Bhubaneswar Bypass aims to alleviate congestion on the existing NH-16, connecting Khurda, Bhubaneswar, and Cuttack.
Hirakud Flood Discharge Reaches Cuttack; IMD Issues Rain Alert
India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued orange and yellow warnings for several parts of Odisha, predicting widespread rainfall
