Ruckus in Odisha Assembly, Congress MLAs beat gongs

BJD and Congress members are alleging that the BJP government has failed to ensure safety of women and justice to the ST, SC and OBC people.

Odisha govt wants to remove workers lacking integrity, efficiency; chief secy issues order

The Odisha government has mandated the removal of inefficient or corrupt employees to boost productivity. Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja emphasized adherence to a 2019 circular on Premature Retirement of government servants, which aims to enhance administrative efficiency by eliminating staff with questionable integrity and inadequate performance.

48 Tagged Olive Ridley Turtles Return to Odisha for Mass Nesting

In a remarkable return, 48 tagged Olive Ridley turtles have returned to the Rushikulya river coast in Ganjam district for mass nesting after being tagged in 2021-23

Indian American US Second Lady embroiled in Greenland controversy as she announces visit

New York: Second Lady of the US, Usha Vance has become embroiled in the Greenland controversy with the head of the Danish territory saying her proposed visit has caused a big mess. Vice President JD Vances wife announced Sunday that she will visit Greenland this week to watch its national dogsled race, Avannaata Qimussersu, and []

India must brace for 9-10 per cent power demand surge in 2025 amid rising temperatures, warn experts

NEW DELHI: India should prepare for a nine to 10 per cent growth in peak electricity demand this summer with the country expected to experience more heatwaves, experts have warned. Last year, the all-India peak electricity demand crossed 250 gigawatts (GW) on May 30, which was 6.3 per cent higher than projections. Climate change-induced heat stress is one of the key factors driving electricity demand. Currently, industries, households and agriculture account for 33 per cent, 28 per cent and 19 per cent of India's total electricity consumption, respectively. Household electricity demand has grown the fastest over the past decade, according to Disha Agarwal, Senior Programme Lead Renewables at the Delhi-based think tank Council on Energy, Environment and Water. The share of household electricity consumption increased from 22 per cent in 2012-13 to 25 per cent in 2022-23. Much of this rise can be attributed to economic growth and the increasing need for cooling due to rising temperatures, experts say. In the summer of 2024, room air conditioner sales surged by 40 to 50 per cent year-on-year amid record-breaking temperatures, Agarwal said. India must now brace for extended heatwaves and a peak electricity demand growth of 9-10 per cent. However, our analysis shows that this peak demand will only last for a short period, she added. Agarwal said India's electricity consumption has been growing at about 9 per cent annually since 2020-21, compared to 5 per cent per year in the previous decade. The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) had estimated that electricity demand would grow at a rate of 6 per cent per year from 2022 to 2030. At the Global Heat and Cooling Forum, organised by the Natural Resources Defense Council last week, experts raised concerns about the increasing demand for air conditioning as summer temperatures continue to rise. Abhas Jha, Practice Manager, Infrastructure Resilience Policy and Finance for South Asia at the World Bank, said that under a moderate emissions scenario, the number of heatwaves in India is expected to triple. India is set to become the largest market for air conditioners globally. Every 15 seconds, an air conditioner is sold in India. AC penetration in the country is currently around 8 per cent compared to 90 per cent in developed nations, he said. AC penetration in India is going to increase. The problem is that most of these air conditioners are highly energy-inefficient -- three-star or unstarred, or unbranded ACs that consume a lot of energy. And if we continue on this trajectory, forget 1.5 degrees Celsius, even 2 degrees Celsius is off the table, Jha said. Study reveals India unprepared for growing heatwave threat; warns of rising deaths A few years ago, the International Energy Agency projected that energy demand from air conditioners would triple by 2050, equivalent to adding 10 new air conditioners every second for the next 30 years. In spite of that rise, two to five billion people will still lack access to air conditioners in 2050, said Rishika Khosla, Research Director of the Oxford India Centre for Sustainable Development at the University of Oxford. She said ongoing research has shown that in a world two degrees Celsius warmer than pre-industrial times, the largest cooling demand, in terms of total population, will come from India, followed by China, Nigeria, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Brazil, the Philippines, and the US. Khosla said achieving thermal comfort for everyone without harming the planet is possible. This will require a strong focus on passive cooling methods, energy efficiency and phasing out harmful refrigerant gases. These measures can reduce cooling-related emissions by 66 per cent, with the remaining reductions coming from decarbonizing the electricity grid, she said. The Oxford researcher added that thermal comfort is not just about temperature. It also involves humidity, ventilation, radiant temperature, and clothing insulation. Solutions go beyond just switching on one technology, she said. India experienced an exceptionally harsh summer last year, recording 536 heatwave days, the highest in 14 years, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Official data showed that during one of the hottest and longest heat waves, India recorded 41,789 suspected heat stroke cases and 143 heat-related deaths. This year, the heatwave arrived much earlier than last year. In 2024, Odisha saw its first heatwave on April 5, but in 2025, parts of Konkan and Coastal Karnataka experienced heatwaves as early as February 27-28. The IMD has forecast above-normal maximum and minimum temperatures across most parts of the country during the summer season which extends from March to May. Pollution, heatwave impacting children's health and education in India: UNICEF report

Japanese consortium sign MoU to set up a new green ammonia production facility in Odisha by 2030

The consortium, including shipping major Mitsui OSK Lines, IHI Corporation in collaboration with ACME Group aims to produce 4 lakh tonnes of green ammonia annually. Green ammonia will be transported to Japan for domestic users

Man duped of Rs 11 lakh by cybercriminals

Berhampur: Cybercriminals defrauded a man of Rs 11 lakh in Berhampur on the pretext of securing a job for him at a US-based company, police said. The victim, a 44-year-old resident of Raghupatinagar under Bada Bazar police limits in Berhampur, was deceived by two cyber fraudsters who claimed the money was needed for US visa, []

Man gets life term for killing elderly

Berhampur: Ganjam District and Sessions Judge Rupashree Chaudhary Monday convicted a man for killing 67-year-old Ranka Sethi and sentenced him to life imprisonment. Sethi was murdered December 11, 2023, in the second lane of Gandhinagar area under the jurisdiction of Town police station. The incident stemmed from a petty altercation, which enraged the accused identified []

Four poachers arrested in Mayurbhanj district

Baripada: A gunfight erupted between poachers and Forest officials during a joint raid in the southern division of the Similipal Tiger Reserve in Mayurbhanj district. The confrontation escalated as the poachers opened fi re at the Forest offi cials. The Forest personnel narrowly escaped harm, arrested four suspects and presented them in court Monday. The []

Toddler drowns in water-filled bucket

Patana: An 18-month-old baby boy drowned in a water-filled bucket at Silida village under Turumunga police limits in Keonjhar district Monday. The deceased child was identified as Abhijit Behera, son of Jiten Behera from Behera Sahi in the village. Family members and villagers rushed him to the Patana CHC where the doctors pronounced him dead. []

Man dies shortly after dads death

Keonjhar: A 51-year-old man died shortly after hearing about his fathers death at Anandeshwar Sahi in Ward No-5 under Anandapur police station limits in Keonjhar district Monday. The deceased father-son duo was identified as Jatia Sahu, 85, a retired soldier of Indian Army and his son Rajesh Kumar Sahu, 51. The double tragedy has cast []

Lessees must install CCTVs at mineral sites: Government

BHUBANESWAR : In a move to curb illegal lifting of minor minerals, the state government has made installation of CCTVs at the quarry sites and GPS surveillance of the excavation and transportation mandatory. As per the new modalities, the lessees will have to maintain single entry and exit points, install internet protocol-based CCTVs and signboards at quarry site and ensure that the vehicles engaged in transportation of materials must have vehicle location tracking device (VLTD). The lessees should install signboards both in English and Odia at the quarry sites with a height and width of 4 ft and 3.5 ft respectively showing all the pertinent information regarding the quarry and submit compliance regarding pillar posting of all minor mineral sources. The directorate of minor minerals has asked the deputy director mines and mining officers to circulate the modalities among the lessees and ensure strict compliance. The directorate has warned that any deviation/laxity will be taken seriously with dire consequences, including suspension of lease of the lessee concerned as per provisions laid down in Odisha Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 2016 and subsequent amendments. The direction came at a time when the state government is preparing to put in place a robust surveillance network to check illegal mining and transportation of minor minerals before going for auction of 636 newly-identified minor minerals sites spread over 17 districts. Last month, chief secretary Manoj Ahuja had directed all collectors to identify new sources of minor minerals, including sand and black stone in a bid to double the number of the current sources and prepare for survey reports for auction by October. He had also asked the SPs of all districts to step up enforcement against illegal mining and transportation of minerals by conducting surprise raids at sources and routes.

Odisha key player in Indias steel industry, says Gadodia

Scan Group is a renowned name in iron and steel industry. Scan Steels Limited is the flagship company of Scan Group of Industries and represents its integrated steel plant located at Rajgangpur. Through strategic marketing and direct customer outreach, the brand became a household name in Odisha and nearby states. In 2014, it achieved the []

Secretaries asked to hold periodic review

BHUBANESWAR : The state government on Monday instructed secretaries of all departments to ensure periodic performance review of government employees to weed out inefficient officials and those having doubtful integrity. In a letter to all secretaries, chief secretary Manoj Ahuja said that instructions issued by the General Administration department for premature retirement of officers and employees of doubtful integrity and patent inefficiency are not being adhered to. It has come to the notice of the government that principles enumerated in the circular issued by the GA department on September 24, 2019 are not being adhered to in totality by many departments. As a result, the very purpose for which these instructions are issued, is defeated and the officers and staffs who are clearly lacking in integrity and standard of efficiency, are continuing in government jobs. This not only brings inefficiency in the system but highly detrimental to public interest also, Ahuja said.. The chief secretary has further instructed all secretaries that all the heads of departments functioning under their control should hold review meetings positively in scheduled time.

OERC keeps power tariff unchanged for 2025-26

BHUBANESWAR : In a major relief to consumers, the Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission (OERC) has kept the retail power tariff unchanged for all categories of consumers for the ensuing 2025-26 financial year. The regulator had reduced tariff by 10 paise for domestic consumers in the current 2024-25 fiscal. Explaining the salient features of the tariff order, to be effective from April 1, at a media conference here, OERC secretary Priyabrat Patnaik said the commission has not effected any hike in the electricity charges for the fourth consecutive year. The last hike was in 2021-22 when an overall increase of 5.6 per cent (30 paise per unit) for all categories of consumers except BPL and irrigation was effected. The notable feature of the tariff order is that consumers with smart meters up to 2 kilo watt connected load will be exempted from meter rent of `60 per month. The cost of the meter rent will be borne by the state government as an incentive to encourage consumers to opt for smart meters, a move vigorously pushed by Tata Power. Patnaik said consumers with pre-paid meters will get a four per cent rebate on pre-paid amount and the low transmission (LT) domestic and single-phase general purpose consumers will continue to enjoy four per cent digital payment rebate. All consumers provided with smart meters and contract demand of more than 10 KW, except irrigation and agriculture consumers will be eligible for a time of day (ToD) rebate of 20 paise per unit in energy charge during solar hours (8 am to 4 pm). They will pay a surcharge of 30 paise per unit during peak hours (6 pm to midnight). OERC marks AT&C loss at 17.33 per cent The primary goal of ToD tariff is to encourage consumers to reduce their electricity consumption during peak hours (when demand is high and costs are higher) and increase it during off-peak hours (when demand is lower and costs are lower). Allowing a revenue gap of Rs 798 crore in the annual revenue requirement of GRIDCO for the ensuing financial year, OERC in the bulk supply tariff order said the trading utility will make up the shortfall from bulk trading of surplus power. The commission has marginally increased the average bulk supply price (BSP) from 328.20 paise to 330.66 paise per unit as against GRIDCOs demand for a hike of 53.64 paisa per unit. The aggregated technical and commercial (AT&C) loss approved for tariff determination was 17.33 per cent for 2025-26 as against 18.79 per cent approved for 2024-25, Patnaik said. Power order No tariff hike for 2025-26 Rs 60 meter rent exemption for smart meters 4% rebate for pre-paid meters ToD rebate of 20p per unit during solar hours for contract demand of over 10 KW They will pay 30p surcharge during peak hours

Second wave arribada at Rushikulya brings joy, and worry for officials

BHUBANESWAR : The second wave of arribada at Rushikulya rookery in Ganjam district - a rare occurrence at Olive Ridley turtle nesting sites - has brought both joy and worry for forest officials. While more than 1.2 lakh turtles have already laid their eggs during the second phase of nesting which started from Friday, the nesting has raised fears over the safety of the eggs that had been laid during the first phase in February. The officials are now in wait and watch mode to see what impact the two mass nesting events will have on hatchlings. Officials of Berhampur forest division said the mass nesting resumed on March 21 was expected to end by Sunday. However, despite rains, it is continuing and expected to go on for a few more days. About 1.2 lakh Olive Ridleys have already laid eggs in this phase. We are expecting the number to go close to two lakh as a large number of turtles are still congregated in the shore waters and ready to lay eggs, said assistant conservator of forests of Khalikote, Dibya Shankar Behera. However, with the turtles laying eggs at the same stretch where the arribada in the first phase continued from February 16 to 23, at least 5 to 10 per cent eggs may get damaged in the process. Hatching of crores of eggs laid previously by the Olive Ridleys on the 7-10 km stretch of the rookery is fast approaching and expected to take place anytime in the first two weeks of April. The second wave of nesting at the same site within the same season has presented a significant challenge. As new turtles arrive to lay eggs, their digging activity risks disturbing and damaging the earlier nests, potentially affecting the survival of the hatchlings already developing beneath the sand. It takes around 45 days for the eggs to hatch, Behera said. Berhampur DFO Sunny Khokhar said all protection measures for the turtles have been put in place. However, it is to be seen what impact the two arribadas will have on hatchlings at the site this year, he said. Rabindranath Sahu, the founding head of Rushikulya Sea Turtle Protection Committee, said, This is the fourth time mass nesting has taken place twice in a season at the site. Previously, such nestings had been recorded in 2006, 2011 and 2018. However, the phenomenon is something that no one can do much about, he said. In the first wave, Rushikulya rookery saw a record 7.2 lakh Olive Ridley turtles arriving at the nesting site this year, the highest in recent decades. The arribada lasted for eight days, from February 16 to 23.

Horoscope March 25: Scorpio plans to start new business; Aries will receive valuable guidance from elders

Discover yourhoroscope todayand astrology predictions for zodiac signs. Get daily horoscope updates and accurate astrology readings for your star sign, daily updates on love, career, and life. Find out what the stars have in store for you. Aries: Today is just another busy day. You may remain hassled sorting out problems at office and then []

Two minor sisters die after eating spurious chhatua

BERHAMPUR : Two minor siblings died and two of their family members were taken seriously ill after allegedly consuming chhatua at Tulasinagar village within R Udayagiri police limits in Gajapati district on Sunday. The deceased were identified as Tulasi Badamundi (6) and Gunabati Badamundi (3). Their uncle Arjun Badamundi (46) and his daughter Sumitra Badamundi (12) have been admitted to the hospital in a critical condition. Sources said the Badamundi family consumed the chhatua, which they received from the anganwadi worker of Ramagiri, in the morning. At around 1.30 pm, Tulasi and Gunabati complained of uneasiness and were rushed to Ramagiri hospital. During treatment, Tulasi died at around 4:30 pm. Subsequently, Sumitra and Arjun also became unwell and were admitted to the same hospital. As there was no improvement in their condition, the three of them were shifted to the district headquarters hospital at Paralakhemundi where Gunabati died at around 9:30 pm. When their condition deteriorated further, Sumitra and Arjun were shifted to MKCG Medical College and Hospital in the wee hours of Monday. They were admitted to the ICU. Dr Chitta Ranjan Khatual of MKCG MCH said the father-daughter duo was brought to the hospital with severe stomach ache and loose motion. Both of them have responded to the treatment and are stable. They are under observation in the ICU. He said the duo told him that they consumed the chhatua after mixing it with hot water. However, the cause might be different as others who ate the same chhatua are normal. Meanwhile, Gajapati collector Bijay Dash has ordered an inquiry into the incident. Dash said many families in Tulasinagar village received the same chhatua and consumed it but none complained of uneasiness. However, samples of the chhatua provided to Badamundi family have been collected and sent for examination. The anganwadi worker concerned has been directed not to distribute the chhatua till the test results are received.

Four poachers with weapons held in Similipal Tiger Reserve

BARIPADA: Four suspected poachers were arrested by forest patrol teams in Similipal Tiger Reserve on wee hours of Monday. Four country-made guns, explosives and other hunting materials were recovered from their possession. The accused were residents of Aswakuti village under Sarat police limits, forest officials said. They were arrested for unauthorised entry, poaching and possession of weapons without permit in the protected area. Deputy director of Similipal south wildlife division Samrat Gowda said the arrests were made during a joint patrolling by Similipal Tiger Protection Force and staff of Similipal south and Baripada wildlife divisions late on Sunday night. A case has been registered at Podadiha wildlife range, and an FIR drawn under the Arms Act, 1959 at Kaptipada police station. The accused Gana Sing, Barju Singh, Mura Sing and Kartik Sing, all in their 20s, would be produced before the court of chief judicial magistrate in Baripada.

Elusive Peace

The second phase ceasefire between Israel and Hamas agreed by both sides under the supervision of a few Arab countries and the US is in serious jeopardy following countless recent airstrikes across the Gaza Strip by Israels IDF in cooperation with Shin Bet in which over 400 people were killed. The recent attack was launched []

Three killed, two hurt as truck rams into roadside tea stall

ROURKELA: A speeding iron ore-laden truck rammed into a roadside tea stall along NH-520 in Sundargarh district, killing three persons and injuring two others on Sunday evening. The tragic mishap took place at around 7 pm near Jamdihi toll gate within K Balang police limits in Bonai sub-division, around 80 km from Rourkela. The deceased were identified as Sambhari Mundary (29), the woman tea stall owner, and her two customers, Arun Kumar Ravi (29) and Jitendra Dhruwa (42). A 14-year-old girl Sunita Munda suffered grievous injuries after being trapped under the iron ore. Sambharis husband Ranjit Chakravartory also sustained minor injuries in the mishap. Sources said the truck was in high speed and its driver lost control of the vehicle while negotiating a sharp turn. The truck rammed into the roadside tea stall before turning turtle. Sambhari and her two customers were crushed to death instantly. Rourkela SP Nitesh Wadhwani said a heavy vehicle erratically parked near the mishap site prevented the view of the approaching iron ore-laden truck at the sharp turn leading to the mishap. On being informed, local police rushed to the spot. The ill-fated truck was removed using a hydraulic crane while the injured persons were admitted to Bonai sub-divisional hospital. The errant truck driver Poresh Bankira (54) was also arrested. Wadhwani said, The truck involved in the mishap was seized and its driver arrested. The wrongly-parked truck was also seized. A case has been registered against its owner to create deterrence against the practice of dangerous and wrongful parking. Police registered a case under sections 281, 106 (1), 125 (a) and 125 (b) of BNS and sent the bodies for autopsy on Monday. Condition of the minor girl and the other injured person is stable.

President Droupadi Murmu calls for tourism development of Kaliapalli

BHUBANESWAR/NAYAGARH: President Droupadi Murmu has called for development of Kaliapalli in Nayagarh as a popular tourist destination. Attending the foundation day ceremony of Bharatiya Biswabasu Shabar Samaj at Kaliapalli on Monday, the President said the place has the potential to become a popular tourist destination and development of infrastructure in the area would attract tourists and pilgrims. Speaking about tribal lifestyle, she said a nature-friendly lifestyle is the characteristic of Indian culture and also an integral part of tribal life. Tribal brothers and sisters worship forests, trees etc., as gods. According to tribal beliefs, the souls of their ancestors reside in the forest. This belief is a great mantra of forest protection, the President added. She added that the government is implementing various schemes for empowerment and self-reliance of tribal brothers and sisters while preserving and promoting their art and culture. She urged them to be aware about the welfare schemes and take advantage of them. Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi accompanied the President. Majhi said the Centres Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, which aims for the holistic development of tribal communities and villages, will cover 7,667 villages of 27 districts in Odisha. After the BJP government was formed in Odisha, it has sanctioned funds for development of Nayagarh region. This includes Rs 15 crore for construction of Pathani Samanta planetarium, Rs 6 crore for setting up of a science park and Rs 2 crore for development of Pathani Samanta Smruti Peetha, he added. Earlier in the day, the President travelled to Nayagarh from Bhubaneswar and offered prayers at the Lord Nilamadhab temple.

Youth held for murder of teen girl, another detained

BARGARH: Police on Monday arrested a youth on charges of murdering a 17-year-old girl whose mutilated body was found in a forest at Burla in Sambalpur district. The accused is 21-year-old Raj Barik of Attabira. The teenage girl of Bargarh town had eloped with Raj on March 20. While another suspect has also been detained for his involvement in the crime, police are tight-lipped about the motive behind the murder. After the girls decomposed body was recovered on Sunday, police detained Raj for questioning and later arrested him. On the day, police also recreated the crime scene to establish the sequence of events. Sources said after failing to trace the girl, her family members lodged a missing complaint with Bargarh Town police. As part of investigation, police tracked the minors mobile phone and traced it to the forest, around 1 km from Zero Point in Burla. On reaching the forest on Sunday, the cops found the girls decomposed body with multiple injury marks. Additional SP Indurekha Paschima Kabat said with the help of CCTV footage, it was found that the girl was taken away from her home by two youths on a motorcycle. The prime accused was produced in court after his medical examination. Postmortem of the deceaseds body has also been conducted. No further details or information can be provided now as investigation is underway, the ASP added. Police sources said there were multiple cut injuries on the head, face, neck and both the hands, suggesting a brutal attack on the victim. It appeared that she strongly resisted the attack but was overpowered. The face was partially mutilated due to the assault. Police are waiting for the autopsy report to ascertain sexual assault on the victim. Meanwhile, the deceased girls family has demanded stringent punishment for all the culprits involved in her murder.

Cops rescue 87 cattle, nab seven smugglers

BALASORE: Police teams from Mayurbhanj and Balasore arrested seven persons on charges of illegal cattle transportation through different routes from Odisha to West Bengal on Sunday. A total of 87 cattle were rescued and six vehicles seized during the operation. The police crackdown followed complaints from various from social organisations about widespread illegal cattle smuggling in Odisha and its adjoining states to West Bengal through national and state highways, as well as district routes. Eastern range DIG Satyajit Nayak said, the highest number of cases on a single day was reported from Mayurbhanj where five cases were registered and as many persons arrested. From four vehicles seized from their possession, 75 cattle were rescued. In Balasore, two cases were registered against two persons and 12 cattle rescued. All rescued cattle were sent to caring centres. Nayak said the police is committed to enforcing laws and protecting animal welfare. He said strong action against those involved in illegal cattle transportation would continue.

Samaleswari temple declared plastic-free

SAMBALPUR: The Samaleswari temple was officially declared a plastic-free zone on Sunday. The move comes in wake of a suggestion made by Union Education Minister and Sambalpur MP Dharmendra Pradhan in this regard during his visit to the 16th century shrine on the occasion of Maha Shivaratri this year. As part of the initiative, the temple authorities have put up signages across the shrine premises and enhanced screening at entry points to prevent devotees from carrying single-use plastic items like bottles, polythene bags and disposable packets inside. Security personnel have been instructed to strictly enforce the ban. President of Samaleswari Temple Trust Board Sanjay Babu said, In the first phase, we are focusing on awareness and strict enforcement. If required, we will impose fine on violators. In the next phase, the authorities will target sustainable alternatives for items used in temple rituals. We plan to replace the plastic packaging of daily-use items such as agarbatti and prasad with eco-friendly alternatives. This apart, vendors selling temple essentials will be sensitised and encouraged to adopt biodegradable packaging materials. The temple authorities are also in talks with the Sambalpur Municipal Corporation to find packaging alternatives for vendors outside the shrine besides exploring ways to pack the takeaway bhog in eco-friendly containers, he said. In April last year, the temple authorities had imposed a ban on tobacco consumption on the shrine premises. Similarly, the shrine transitioned into using solar energy after a 120kw roof top solar power project was commissioned on December 24.

Talcher Fertiliser Limited at 60 per cent progress mark, says MoS Health Anupriya Patel

ANGUL: Acknowledging inordinate delay, Union minister of state for Chemical and Fertilisers Anupriya Patel has assured completion of the Rs 13,288 crore Talcher Fertiliser Limited (TFL) at the earliest. The minister informed this while replying to an un-starred question raised by Dhenkanal MP Rudra Narayan Pany in Lok Sabha. The targeted completion of the project was September 2024. Patel informed that overall progress of the project was 65.66 per cent as on February 25. As regards to the outside battery limit package, the progress is about 77 per cent. The pipe rack, plant lighting, boiler and water treatment plant as well as DM water plant are at advanced stage of mechanical completion, she added. Patel said, the project is being regularly reviewed by joint venture partners and TFL board and all efforts are being made for an early completion. The TFL is in regular contacts with China-based Wuhan Engineering Company Ltd (WECL) which was awarded the contract for coal gasification and ammonia urea package in 2019. After the Centre decided revival of Talcher unit of Fertiliser Corporation of India in Odisha, a joint venture company named TFL was incorporated for setting up coal gasification- based ammonia urea plant with an annual capacity of 12.7 lakh metric tonne. This was the first of its kind in India. Patel blamed Covid-19 pandemic for the delay in the implementation of the project. Progress of the project has been impacted due to backlog in procurement construction and equipment erection by WECL. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had laid the foundation stone of TFL in September 2018 at Talcher.

Crops damaged, boats anchored as rains lash Kendrapada

KENDRAPARA: Three days of untimely rainfall and winds destroyed green gram (moong) and vegetable crops across Kendrapada and its nearby areas. Farmers from viilages of Aul, Mahakalapada, Rajnagar, Derabishi ,Pattamundai, Marsaghai, Rajkanika and Garadpur blocks have reported complete damage to the crops just weeks before harvest. We lost moong crops over our two acres of land. You can see all the crops are destroyed due to water-logging, said Bimran Jena, a moong farmer of Garadpur. Another farmer Arabinda Malick from Bharatpur village echoed similar sentiments. Farmers of the district cultivated moong over around 40,000 hectare this year. The unseasonal incessant rain dashed the hopes of large numbers of farmers who were expecting bumper crops, said Umesh Chandra Singh, a farmers leader and the president of district unit of Krishak Sabha. Kaliprasan Behera, a vegetable grower of Srirampur village said a large number of farmers had grown vegetables on their land but the rain has damaged their backbones. Chief district agriculture officer (CDAO), Kendrapara Kalyan Kumar Ray said, affected farmers will get help from the Agricultural department. We have directed all the block level officials to submit reports about the crop loss due to untimely rain, he added. Meanwhile, hundreds of fishing vessels remained docked at Paradip as fishermen were cautioned against venturing into the sea due to trough.

MKCG MCH emerges countrys ragging hotspot

BHUBANESWAR : The MKCG medical college and hospital (MKCG MCH) at Berhampur tops the list of medical colleges in the country that witness the maximum number of ragging complaints. So does Berhampur University among public universities and Biju Patnaik University of Technology (BPUT) in Rourkela when it comes to technical universities. An analysis of ragging complaints registered between 2022 and 2024 at the UGCs National Anti-Ragging Helpline, published by the Society Against Violence in Education (SAVE) on Monday, revealed that educational institutions in Odisha continue to report a majority of ragging cases in the country, be it in general or technical education fields. The State of Ragging in India 2022-24 states that MKCG MCH, among the medical colleges, has become a hotspot of ragging. Among 12 MCHs across the country that saw filing of a significant number of complaints, MKCG topped the list with 25 complaints lodged in three years ending December 2024. It was followed by Pt Jawahar Lal Nehru Memorial Medical College at Raipur (15 complaints), Vardhman Institute of Medical Sciences at Bihar (14), Takmeel-Ut-Tib College & Hospital at Uttar Pradesh (12) and Maulana Azad Medical College at New Delhi (11). BPUT, which is the largest technical university in the state, comes fourth in the list of top-5 technical universities with most complaints. It has reported 28 complaints with the helpline while Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University of Technology in Kolkata tops the list with 74 complaints. Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology at Burla saw eight ragging cases in this period. When it comes to technical colleges, be it engineering or polytechnic, Odishas Indira Gandhi Institute of Technology at Sarang (Dhenkanal) comes second in this list with 22 complaints. Similarly, Berhampur University is among the top universities with 31 complaints. Within this period, the state also saw three alleged ragging deaths. In over a decade, the anti-ragging helpline has logged over 8,000 complaints and among the states that reported a majority of them is Odisha with 517 complaints. While the dean of MKCG MCH could not be reached for comments, a member of the anti-ragging squad of the institution said many of these cases are a result of infighting among students. We are following all the UGC guidelines to avoid ragging on our campus including strict action against the perpetrators of the crime. In December last year, an assistant professor and three senior residents were suspended for six months and in November, five MBBS students were expelled from the hostel for ragging, he said. Anti-ragging activist and vice-president of SAVE Gaurav Singhal said the above-mentioned complaints are just the ones registered with the helpline. In reality, there are a huge number of complaints that are registered directly in colleges and police which do not reflect in the anti-ragging helpline. Concerning Scenario MKCG has reported 25 ragging complaints in 3 years ending Dec 2024 BPUT 4th in the list of top-5 tech universities with most complaints Eight ragging cases reported from VSSUT, Burla during this period The state has seen three alleged ragging deaths in this period 517 ragging complaints reported from Odisha in over a decade

Orissa HC issues notice to goverment and SCB over alleged baby swap

CUTTACK: The Orissa High Court on Monday issued notices to the chief secretary, secretaries of the Home and Health and Family Welfare departments, and Cuttack collector on a petition alleging baby swap at the SCB medical college and hospital (SCB MCH) last month. The court also directed the superintendent of SCB MCH to file a reply by April 2, the date fixed for next hearing on the matter. According to the petition, on February 10, Chandrama Behera (22), wife of Ratana Behera (25) of Puri town, was admitted at the SCB MCH and gave birth to a girl the next day. However, on February 12, the mother was handed over a dead baby. Ratana alleged that his newborn daughter was swapped with a dead baby while she was under special observation in the special newborn care unit (SNCU). He sought an inquiry by the collector, Cuttack, into the alleged incident. While issuing the notices, Justice SK Panigrahi said, The facts before this court reveal more than negligence. They reflect a serious breach of trust in an institution meant to provide care and protection to the most vulnerable...That a newborn could go missing under such circumstances and that the petitioners pleas for accountability have been met with silence is deeply troubling. Justice Panigrahi pointed out that the inaction of the authorities cannot be brushed aside and it is necessary to seek an immediate response to ensure that the matter is handled with seriousness. In his order, Justice Panigrahi noted that the petitioner aggrieved by the inaction of the authorities had submitted an application to the superintendent of SCBMCH on February 13. However, no steps were taken. Subsequently, he approached the IIC of Mangalabag police station where an FIR was registered but no further action followed. Thereafter, the petitioner escalated the matter to the DCP, Cuttack, filing a grievance on February 21 but again, no steps were taken. Left with no recourse, he approached the collector and submitted a written complaint on February 25. Despite this, the complaint remains pending without any action, Justice Panigrahi noted.

Nearly 60,000 Hectares Of Forest Land Diverted For Commercial Use In Three Years, Centre Tells Parliament

Madhya Pradesh lost nearly 14,157 hectares of forest landthe highest among all statesfollowed by Odisha (7,703 hectares) and Uttar Pradesh (5,058 hectares).

Nine more villages to be brought under BMC fold

BHUBANESWAR : The state government has begun the work to expand the BMCs jurisdiction bringing more villages from the city outskirts under its fold to cater to the needs of the rising population in the city and its periphery. Sources in the H&UD department said apart from earmarking of land for a new city, proposals have been sent to Khurda collector Chanchal Rana for inclusion of Sijua village of Ranasingpur gram panchayat (GP) , Raghunathpur, Lingipur and Nuagaon villages of Sishupalgarh GP, Ebaranga village of Padhansahi GP besides Tikarapada, Itipur, Dhauli and Basuaghai GPs under BMC jurisdiction. However, decision regarding their inclusion would be taken after the government examines the proposals in detail, they added.

Plant to dispose hazardous waste to get going by April

BHUBANESWAR : In a bid to effectively process the biohazard waste generated in the city every day, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) is set to operationalise a plasma incineration plant at the Gadakana temporary transit centre (TTS) near Sainik School beginning April. The first-of-its-kind plant in the state has been set up at an investment of around Rs 4 crore. We are planning to operationalise it from April after carrying out a trial and making it error-proof before normal operation. The calibration of the plant to fix parameters for accurate performance has been done recently, a BMC official said. Sources said around 11 to 12 tonne of biohazard waste including used sanitary napkins, empty phenyle and disinfectant bottles, used batteries and other domestic biohazard waste that require proper disposal to prevent health risks and environmental damage, are being collected on a daily basis. While the civic body has been struggling for their safe disposal, the plasma incineration plant is equipped with the most advanced equipment to resolve the challenge. The plant uses high-temperature plasma (ionized gas) to incinerate or gasify waste at over 1,750 degree Celsius. For effective collection of the domestic hazardous waste and their processing, officials said they have attached one red and a black box to each door-to-door garbage collection vehicle in which such waste are being collected from the households on a regular basis.

Agri department & Cold Chain Solutions ink pact to operate Dhenkanal pack house

BHUBANESWAR : The Agriculture department on Monday signed two MoUs for post-harvest management of fruits and vegetables and expansion of the agriculture production cluster (APC) to more backward blocks. The directorate of horticulture signed an MoU with Cold Chain Solutions for operation, maintenance and management of integrated pack house at Govindpur, Dhenkanal. The second MoU was between directorate of Horticulture, Mission Shakti and Professional Assistance for Development Action (PRADAN) for a project titled Strengthening livelihoods of WSHG members through promotion of Agriculture Production Cluster in Odisha. As per the agreement, Cold Chain Solutions will manage the integrated pack house in Dhenkanal district set up by the Dhenkanal Fruits and Vegetables Marketing Company Ltd (DFVMCL) formed under the of Odisha Horticulture Development Society (OHDS). Cold Chain Solutions will use its expertise for efficient management of the integrated pack house and procure agricultural produce, fruits and vegetables from farmers, farmer producer organisations (FPOs), cooperatives and farmer producer company (FPC) on a priority basis from the nearby areas at a mutually remunerative price to be settled based on market pricing, deputy chief minister -cum-Agriculture minister KV Singh Deo said after the signing of the MoU. This will provide an alternative marketing platform to the farmers for better price realisation of their produce and create appropriate institutional and organisational linkages, he added. The objective of the other MoU is to promote improved cropping practices in agriculture and livestock rearing among women SHG members to help them sustainably double their income within the project period. The ACP project is already implemented in 73 blocks covering 14 districts of the state. The state government has decided to expand the project to 27 new blocks including Kotia group of villages in Koraput district.

BJD corporators brother held for encroachment

BHUBANESWAR: Police have arrested BJD corporator Sridhar Jenas brother Sikhar Chandra Jena for allegedly encroaching upon a private land in Jharpada area near Puri bypass road, and threatening its owner at gunpoint for confronting him. Police said on visiting their plot in the morning, the complainant Imteyaj Khan and his family members found that Sikhar was constructing a boundary wall on it. On being confronted for his illegal act, the accused allegedly threatened Khan at gunpoint. After receiving a complaint, a case was registered against him under various sections of BNS and Arms Act. The accused was arrested late Sunday night, said an officer of Badagada police station. Sikhar has criminal antecedents and was earlier booked in nine cases by Laxmisagar police.

No power tariff hike in Odisha for 2025-26; rebate continues for e-bill payments

To encourage digital transactions, the OERC will also continue offering a 4 per cent rebate on electricity bills paid through online platforms

IPL 2025: Ashutosh Sharma wins a thriller for DC against LSG

Visakhapatnam: Impact sub Ashutosh Sharma played the most defining knock of his IPL career to guide Delhi Capitals to a thrilling one wicket victory over Lucknow Super Giants here Monday. Ashutosh smashed 66 not out off 31 balls and finished it with a huge six off Shahbaz Ahmed as DC chased down a target of []

President Droupadi Murmu visits Lord Jagannaths birthplace at Odishas Kantilo

During her address, the President highlighted various initiatives undertaken by both the central and Odisha governments for the welfare of tribal communities, including the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)

Man gets 7-yr RI for raping 6-year-old girl

39 govt officers forced to retire for graft in 5 years: CM

2 MoUs signed to boost agro devpt

47 drowned in sea beaches in state in 5 years: CM

4 held for stone pelting at govt vehicles in Mayurbhanj

Gajapati admn launches probe into death of 2 girls

2 held for posing as cops; Rs 1.9L in fake notes found

Puri airport plan on track, says minister

Industries asked to provide rest sheds, water facilities for workers

5 persons arrested for burgling liquor shops

Realtor held for duping constable of Rs 18.6L

Truck driver arrested for ramming vehicle into tea stall

HC pulls up SCB in baby swap case

Never dreamt of becoming a judge, wanted to become a good lawyer: Justice Tandon

Heavy rain brings relief to capital; disrupts traffic

Decomposed body of 17-yr-old girl found, family alleges rape, murder

Sambalpur: The decomposed body of a 17-year-old girl, who was missing since March 20, was found in a forest in Odishas Sambalpur district, with her family alleging she was raped and murdered. One person has been arrested on the charge of murdering the girl. The body of the girl, who had eloped with a male []

Odisha: Decomposed body of 17-yr-old girl found, family alleges rape, murder

One person has been arrested on the charge of murdering the girl, police said

80L consumers to pay less as OERC waives Rs 60 monthly rent on smart meters

7 tribal dists reported 83% of malaria cases in 2024, shows data

Odisha: 2 sisters die after eating special `sattu`

The incident happened in Tulasi Nagar in Ramgiri village in R Udaygiri block on Sunday

Only 100-120 Maoists currently active in Odisha: CM

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi Monday claimed that only 100-120 Maoists were currently active in the state. In a written statement in the state assembly, Majhi said, As per available information, at present about 100 to 120 Maoists are active in the state. The target is set to make India Naxal-free by March []

Odisha minister castigates opposition for gridlock in Assembly

Odisha revenue and disaster management minister Suresh Pujari on Monday launched a scathing attack on the opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Congress for persistently stalling Assembly proceedings for over 10 days.

No power tariff hike in 2025-26 fiscal: OERC

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission (OERC) Monday announced that there would be no hike in power tariffs for the fourth consecutive year in 2025-26. OERC Secretary and Director (Regulatory Affairs) Priyabrata Patnaik said the commission has deciced that the retail supply tariff for the 2025-26 fiscal will remain the same as that of 2024-25. []

Delhi HC judge transfer: Allahabad HC bar body to go on indefinite strike from March 25

Lucknow/Prayagraj (UP): Lawyers of Allahabad High Court Bar Association will stage an indefinite strike from March 25 onwards following Justice Yashwant Varmas proposed transfer to Allahabad High Court, a senior office bearer of the body said Monday. Lawyers of the High Court Bar Association, Allahabad will go on an indefinite strike from Tuesday following Justice []

Ready to fully cooperate in probe but wont apologise: Kunal Kamra to Mumbai Police

Mumbai: Hours after the registration of FIR for referring to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as a traitor in his show, the Mumbai Police Monday evening contacted stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra, who is reported to be in Puducherry. A source said that the police have contacted Kunal Kamra and asked him several questions. In []

Odisha: R&DM Dept provides Rs 20.38 cr for relief work in areas affected due to hailstorm

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said Monday that the state government has provided Rs 20.38 crore for relief work and financial assistance to persons affected by the hailstorm which occurred recently in several parts of Mayurbhanj district. Talking to media persons here Monday, Pujari also stated that the government will pay []

President Murmu visits famous Nilamadhab Temple in Odishas Nayagarh

President Murmu visits famous Nilamadhab Temple in Odishas Nayagarh Bhubaneswar: President Droupadi Murmu on Monday offered prayers at the famous Nilamadhab Temple in Odishas Nayagarh district, soon after reaching the state on a two day visit. Soon after arriving at Bhubaneswar International Airport from Chhattisgarh, the President headed for Nayagarh. She said that efforts should [] The post President Murmu visits famous Nilamadhab Temple in Odishas Nayagarh appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

DC restrict LSG to below-par 209/8 despite Marsh, Pooran fifties

Visakhapatnam: Delhi Capitals bowlers did well at the back-end to restrict Lucknow Super Giants to 209 for 8 on a batting paradise, despite attractive fifties from Mitchell Marsh and Nicholas Pooran, here Monday. In the end, LSG were at least 30 runs short of what was a par-score on this track, losing seven wickets for []

Afghan refugees write to Pakistan PM to halt deportation

Islamabad: Afghan refugees awaiting resettlement to the United States have written an open letter to Pakistans Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to immediately halt their deportation to Afghanistan as the March 31 deadline approaches closer. The letter has been written by refugees who have pending or approved visa applications for entry into the United States or []

BJD pushes for 27% reservation for OBCs in jobs, education in Odisha

Despite OBCs comprising 54% of States population, they dont have any reservation in educational institutes, says senior BJD leader Arun Sahoo

Fake DSP, constable arrested in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Police has arrested two persons for impersonating police officers and seized 386 counterfeit Rs 500 notes from them, a senior official said Monday. The accused, identified as Manas Ranjan Senapati (26) and Ashis Swain (23), were caught during a routine night patrol by Saheed Nagar police in Bhubaneswar Sunday. According to Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Commissionerate []

Ajay Seth appointed Finance Secretary

New Delhi: Ajay Seth, a 1987 batch IAS officer of the Karnataka cadre, was designated as the new Finance Secretary Monday, according to an official order. Seth is currently the Secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs in the Finance Ministry. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved designating Seth as the Finance Secretary, []

Egypt sends new proposal to Israel, Hamas to resume ceasefire: security sources

Cairo: Egypt has presented a new proposal to Israel and Hamas aimed at restoring the Gaza ceasefire deal, two informed Egyptian security sources told Xinhua news agency Monday. Egypt sent an urgent proposal Sunday night to the warring sides for ending the war and resuming negotiations on the second stage of the preliminary ceasefire deal, []

Humko maangta Fanta-Fanta: 10th graders hilarious answer leaves teacher saying, Meet me in office

In schools and colleges, there are two types of studentsthose who attend every class and take their studies seriously, and those who have little interest in studying. The creativity and talent of such students often come to light during examinations, with their witty responses sometimes going viral on social media. Teachers usually enjoy checking the []

Odisha set to manufacture semiconductors by December, says Minister

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government Monday said the local industry is expected to produce semiconductors by the end of December this year. State Electronics and IT Minister Mukesh Mahaling said this in the Assembly while replying to a question. Mahaling said the government has provided RIR Power Electronics with 20,000 sq feet to set up the []

President Murmu calls on tribals to embrace education, welfare schemes

Nayagarh: President Droupadi Murmu Monday called upon tribal men and women to take benefits of various welfare schemes for them, emphasising that this would be possible if they were educated. The President, who is on a two-day visit to the state, said this while addressing the foundation day ceremony of Bharatiya Biswabasu Sabar Samaj, an []

IPL 2025: Delhi Capitals win toss, elect to field against Lucknow Super Giants

Visakhapatnam: Delhi Capitals captain Axar Patel won the toss and opted to field against Lucknow Super Giants in their Indian Premier League match here Monday. KL Rahul is unavailable for the opening game of his new franchise Delhi Capitals as he is expecting the birth of his first child. The Teams: Delhi Capitals: Axar Patel []

President Droupadi Murmu offers prayers to Lord Vishnu at Nilamadhav Temple in Kantilo, Odisha

President Droupadi Murmu, on Monday, offered prayers at the famous Nilamadhav Temple in Kantilo, located in Odishas Nayagarh district.

Chhattisgarh must eliminate Maoism, says President Murmu, praises Assembly

Bhopal: The silver jubilee of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly marked a historic moment with a strong call for eradicating Maoism, as leaders and dignitaries celebrated the states democratic journey. President Draupadi Murmu, while addressing the occasion Monday in Raipur, highlighted unity, empowerment, and development as pivotal for shaping Chhattisgarhs future. She began with Jai Johar! []

Rupee recovers its 2025 losses; jumps 31 paise to close at 85.67 against US dollar

Mumbai: Rising for the seventh straight session, the rupee appreciated 31 paise to close at 85.67 (provisional) against the US dollar Monday, wiping off all its losses in 2025, supported by a positive trend in domestic equity markets and fresh foreign capital inflows. Besides, lower global crude price levels and continuing weakness in the greenback []

Odisha government dismissed 120 officials, retired 39 compulsorily in five years: CM

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has dismissed 120 employees and given compulsory retirement to 39 officials over the past five years for indulging in corruption, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi informed the Assembly Monday. In a written reply to a query from BJD legislator Dhruba Charan Sahoo, the CM said, In all, 120 government employees have []

Sensex jumps 1,078 points on FII inflows, gains in banks; takes winning run to 6th day

Mumbai: Benchmark equity indices Sensex and Nifty surged more than 1 per cent Monday amid fresh foreign fund inflows and buying in banking and oil & gas shares. The 30-share BSE Sensex jumped 1,078.87 points or 1.40 per cent to settle at over six-week high of 77,984.38. During the day, it zoomed 1,201.72 points or []

BMC conducts demolition drive at Mumbais Habitat Studio after Kunal Kamras traitor controversy

Mumbai: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) carried out a demolition drive at The Habitat Studio, located at the Unicontinental Hotel in Khar, Monday, citing violations of civic rules. The incident assumes significance because it is the same venue that hosted stand-up comedian Kunal Kamras show, during which he made controversial remarks against Maharashtra Deputy Chief []

Viral video: Woman smashes car with mother & infant, you wont believe what happens next!

A viral video has emerged, showing a woman launching a violent attack on a car with an 8-month-old baby inside. The viral video, which has sent social media into a frenzy, captures the moment the enraged woman pelts stones at the vehicle while the terrified mother and her infant remain inside. The viral video was []

Key factors driving Indian stock markets rally

Mumbai: The Indian stock market continued its strong upward momentum Monday fuelled by several key factors, including expectations of a rate cut by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), strong buying by domestic and foreign investors, and a positive outlook on the Indian economy by global analysts. The benchmark indices opened higher and extended []

Judicial duties withdrawn from Justice Varma over cash row, MPs push for answers

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court Monday revised the Roster for sitting judges taking Justice Yashwant Varma off judicial work in keeping with a direction from Chief Justice of India (CJI), Sanjiv Khanna who has constituted a three-member panel to investigate the alleged recovery of cash at the formers home. The controversy also saw two []

Unified Pension Scheme set to roll out from April 1, know details

New Delhi: From April 1, Central government employees with at least 25 years of service will be eligible for a fixed pension equal to 50 per cent of their average basic salary from the last 12 months before retirement under the new Unified Pension Scheme (UPS). The government is introducing the UPS to offer more []

Tech startups raise $2.5 billion in Jan-March, make India 3rd most funded globally

Bengaluru: Domestic tech startups raised $2.5 billion in the January-March period this year (Q1 2025) to date, marking a 13.64 per cent increase from the previous quarter and an 8.7 per cent rise from the same period last year making India the third most-funded country globally ahead of Malta and Germany and behind []

Harmanpreet, Mandhana, and Deepti retained in Grade A category of BCCI central contracts

New Delhi: India womens team captain Harmanpreet Kaur, her deputy Smriti Mandhana and all-rounder Deepti Sharma were Monday retained in Grade A, the highest category of central contracts offered by BCCI. Pacer Renuka Thakur, all-rounder Jemimah Rodrigues, wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh and opener Shafali Verma managed to hold on to their Grade B contracts. Left-arm orthodox []

Two sisters die in Odisha after consuming special sattu; food poisoning suspected

Gajapati: Two sisters died of suspected food poisoning in Odishas Gajapati district after eating a special sattu, meant for underweight babies, supplied by the local Anganwadi Centre, officials said Monday. The incident happened in Tulasi Nagar in Ramgiri village in R Udaygiri block Sunday. The deceased were six and three. While the elder sister died []

Opposition demands fair probe, impeachment over cash discovery

New Delhi: The alleged discovery of a large stash of cash from the official residence of Delhi High Court judge Yashwant Varma drew sharp reactions from the opposition leaders who demanded a fair probe into the matter while some suggested that he should be impeached. A fire incident at the storeroom of the official residence []

Emraan Hashmis Awarapan 2 to release April 3, 2026

Mumbai: On the occasion of his 46th birthday Monday, actor Emraan Hashmi treated his fans by announcing the sequel of Awarapan, which has been locked for April 3, 2026 release. Bas mujhe kuch aur der zinda rakh #Awarapan2 in cinemas, 3rd April 2026. #Awarapan2 @Visheshb7 @Visheshfilms #MukeshBhatt #VisheshFilms, Emraan captioned the post. View this post []

47 people drowned at Odisha sea beaches in last five years: CM

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi Monday informed the state Assembly that 47 persons died due to drowning in the sea at different beaches of Odisha including Puri in the last five years. Majhi said this in a written reply to a question from BJP legislator Om Prakash Mishra. For the safety of tourists, []