Acute Myocardial Infarction Causes, Symptoms & Recovery
Heart attack, also known as myocardial infarction is a condition wherein there isnt enough blood flow to some parts of your heart muscle. Without blood flow, your heart muscles begin to die. If you dont take the necessary steps to get back the blood flow, it might lead to permanent heart damage or in severe [] The post Acute Myocardial Infarction Causes, Symptoms & Recovery appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
BJP Names Candidates for Eight Assembly Seats in Odisha
Bhubaneswar: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday announced candidates for eight more Assembly seats in Odisha for the upcoming elections. Here is the List of BJP candidates: Telkoi (ST): Dr.Fakir Mohan Nayak Champua: Murali Manohar Sharma Basta: Rabindra Andia Basudevpur: Banikalyan Mohanty Hindol (SC): Seemarani Nayak Salepur: Arindam Roy Kendrapara (SC): Geetanjali Sethy Khurda: [] The post BJP Names Candidates for Eight Assembly Seats in Odisha appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Ramayana First Look: Ranbir Kapoor As Shri Ram, Sai Pallavi As Maa Sita
Nitesh Tiwaris much-awaited magnum opus, Ramayana hits headlines once again. Although the mythological epic is yet to be officially announced, Ramayana manages to grab attention now and then. Amid much anticipation, Ranbir Kapoor & Sai Pallavis first look as Ram-Sita got leaked on social media. Ramayana Cast, Plot Deets & More Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, [] The post Ramayana First Look: Ranbir Kapoor As Shri Ram, Sai Pallavi As Maa Sita appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Severe Heatwave In West Bengal, Odisha, Weather Office Issues Red Alert
The Indian Metrological Department (IMD) on Saturday said that it has issued a red alert for Odisha and Gangetic West Bengal due to severe heatwave conditions in this part.
Heatwave sweeps Odisha, Bhubaneswar records 44.6 degrees Celsius
A scorching heatwave has gripped Odisha, with temperatures soaring to 44.6 degrees Celsius in Bhubaneswar, the highest this summer. Weather scientist Umashaknar Dash warned of hot and humid conditions, advising people to stay indoors between 11 am to 3 pm. The IMD forecasts a further rise in temperatures by two degrees Celsius in the next 24 hours and four to six degrees above normal in some parts over the next five days. Red and orange alerts have been issued for several districts, signaling severe heatwave conditions to persist.
Top 10 Mystery Movies of All Time
Popular genres like crime, thriller, and mystery are still just as relevant as ever. Mystery movies are especially having a renaissance, with massively popular recent entries in the genre proving renewed interest in the familiar formula. (10) Chinatown (1974): A renowned neo-noir mystery film, director Roman PolanskisChinatownis a genre-defining timeless masterpiece that follows private detective [] The post Top 10 Mystery Movies of All Time appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Indian cyber agency finds multiple bugs in Cisco products
New Delhi: The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) which comes under the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, has issued an advisory over three serious vulnerabilities in networking giant Cisco products that could allow hackers to gain access, infiltrate into computer systems and steal data. The vulnerabilities reported in Cisco Adaptive Security Appliance (ASA) []
Kalinga Literary Festival Relaunches Monthly Community Literary Event KLF Corner
Bhubaneswar: Kalinga Literary Festival, in collaboration with Oxford Bookstore Bhubaneswar, proudly unveiled the rejuvenation of its monthly community literary event with an electrifying book launch of Novoneel Chakrabortys latest masterpiece, The Heartbreak Club, published by Westland Books. The event, held at Oxford Bookstore Bhubaneswar, saw an enthusiastic gathering of literary enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the opportunity [] The post Kalinga Literary Festival Relaunches Monthly Community Literary Event KLF Corner appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Britney Spears, her father Jamie settle legal dispute over conservatorship
Los Angeles: Pop icon Britney Spears and her father, Jamie Spears, will no longer be pursuing the legal battle over her conservatorship. The two have settled the dispute over legal fees after the first filing in December 2021. More than two years after the conservatorship that had given the singers father control of her life []
IAS Officer Aravind Agrawal Gets Additional Charge As Secy To Odisha Governor
Bhubaneswar: Odisha Government has appointed IAS Officer Aravind Agrawal to take additional responsibility as the Secretary to Governor Raghubar Das. As per the office order issued by General Administration & Public Grievance Department, the 2007-batch IAS Officer Aravind Agrawal, who is currently serving as the Commissioner-cum-Secretary of Higher Education Department with additional charge of [] The post IAS Officer Aravind Agrawal Gets Additional Charge As Secy To Odisha Governor appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
ED acted in most highhanded manner in excise policy case, Kejriwal tells Supreme Court
New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Saturday told the Supreme Court that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has acted in a most highhanded manner in a money-laundering case stemming from the alleged excise policy scam. In a rejoinder to the EDs reply affidavit filed on his petition challenging his arrest in the case, Kejriwal said []
Kalahandi: Ex-Sarapanch Gets 1-Yr RI For Taking Rs 15K Bribe
Kalahandi: A vigilance court in Bhawanipatna convicted the former Sarpanch of Ardi panchayat in Kalahandi district for demanding and accepting a bribe. The accused has been identified as Phulmati Majhi, Ex-Sarapanch of Adri Panchayat, Th. Rampur Block in Kalahandi district. Majhi was charge-sheeted by Odisha Vigilance in a case vide Spl. Judge, Vigilance, Bhawanipatna TR [] The post Kalahandi: Ex-Sarapanch Gets 1-Yr RI For Taking Rs 15K Bribe appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
MI opt to field against DC; Prithvi Shaw misses out
New Delhi: Mumbai Indians skipper Hardik Pandya won the toss and opted to field against Delhi Capitals in their Indian Premier League match against Delhi Capitals here Saturday. MI made one change to its playing XI, bringing in Luke Wood for Gerald Coetzee. The Delhi side made a couple of changes, bringing in Kumar Kushagra []
Moscow renews attacks on Ukrainian energy sector as Kyiv launches drones at southern Russia
Kyiv: Russia launched a barrage of missiles against Ukraine overnight, in attacks that appeared to target the countrys energy infrastructure. Meanwhile, Russia said its air defence systems had intercepted more than 60 Ukrainian drones over the southern Krasnodar region. Ukraines air force said Saturday that Russia had launched 34 missiles against Ukraine overnight, of which []
Nayagarh Residents Khadya Seva Rath to Seva Ambulance: A Journey of Compassion and Service
Nayagarh: In a heartwarming tale of resilience and compassion, a resident of Nayagarh, Bibhuti Bhusan Patnaik has been serving the community for the past four years through his Sai Prasad Khadya Seva Rath, providing free food to the needy in front of temples and ashrams. This noble initiative began as a way for him [] The post Nayagarh Residents Khadya Seva Rath to Seva Ambulance: A Journey of Compassion and Service appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
A local Singaporean tea stall vendor, heaps praise on Yamis performance in Article 370!
Yami Gautams latest cinematic endeavour, Article 370, has transcended its national impact to resonate globally, showcasing the power of storytelling to bridge cultural gaps and ignite meaningful discussions. Yamis presence and extraordinary performance added commercial viability to the film, and it was a major hit at the ticket window. After a successful theatrical run, Yamis [] The post A local Singaporean tea stall vendor, heaps praise on Yamis performance in Article 370! appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Severe heatwave in gangetic West Bengal and Odisha; red alert issued: IMD
The News Mill
Southern India's Water Storage Falls to 17% of Reservoir Capacity
The Central Water Commission (CWC) recently released a bulletin regarding reservoir storage levels across various regions of India, revealing that the southern region, which includes Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, is facing a significant reduction in water storage compared to historical averages. The southern region's 42 reservoirs, monitored by the CWC, have a total live storage capacity of 53.334 billion cubic meters (BCM), but the available live storage is currently only 8.865 BCM, representing just 17% of their total capacity. This figure is much lower than the storage levels from the same period last year (29%) and the ten-year average (23%), indicating worsening water scarcity and potential challenges for irrigation, drinking water supply, and hydroelectric power generation in these states. Meanwhile, the eastern region, comprising states like Assam, Odisha, and West Bengal, has shown improvement in water storage levels compared to last year and the ten-year average. In this region, 23 monitored reservoirs with a total live storage capacity of 20.430 BCM currently hold 7.889 BCM of water, representing 39% of their total capacity. Other regions are also facing challenges. The western region, consisting of Gujarat and Maharashtra, reports storage levels of 11.771 BCM, which is 31.7% of the total capacity of the 49 monitored reservoirs. This is notably lower than the storage levels of the previous year (38%) and the ten-year average (32.1%). Similarly, the northern and central regions also show declines in water storage levels compared to historical averages. Award of 30-Year Management Contract for Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport to Indian-Russian Joint Venture NTA Ends NEET UG 2024 Correction Session Today NIA Arrests Key Figure in Violent Attack on Indian High Commission in London
Tajinderpal Singh Toor Highlights Shift In Indian Athletes Attitude Ahead Of Paris Olympics
Bengaluru:Some of Indias finest athletes congregated at yet another edition of the Beyond the Finish Line, a panel discussion held on Friday, the 26th of April, ahead of the 16th edition of the TCS World 10K Bengaluru, scheduled to take place on Sunday, 28th April 2024. Present at the occasion was 27-time IBSF world champion, [] The post Tajinderpal Singh Toor Highlights Shift In Indian Athletes Attitude Ahead Of Paris Olympics appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Let us tell you that in view of the scorching heat and heat wave, summer vacation has been announced from April in government and private schools of many states of the country like Maharashtra, Odisha, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh and Bihar. The timing of classes has changed. School Holiday: There is relief news for school students. [] The post School Holiday: Relief news for students! Now schools will remain closed for so many days, changes in timings of many schools also first appeared on informalnewz .
Pakistan to tour NZ next year for 3 ODIs, 5 T20Is
Lahore: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed that its national side will tour New Zealand next year to play three ODIs and five T20 Internationals. The series, the sixth between the two nations since 2023, was finalised during a meeting between PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and New Zealand Cricket (NZC) CEO Scott Weenink in Lahore []
Neither Double, Nor Single, Only Naveen Babus Engine In Odisha: Pandian in Nuapada
Nuapada: Senior BJD leader and 5T Chairman Kartik Pandian continued his election campaigning by visiting and addressing public meetings in Nuapada district. The Biju Janata Dal is seeking votes for its candidates to take development forward by making people accountable for development. Pandians campaign has roused thousands of people to the rally. The major [] The post Neither Double, Nor Single, Only Naveen Babus Engine In Odisha: Pandian in Nuapada appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Miffed At Being Denied Ticket, Mohan Hembram Quits Congress
Bhubaneswar: Mohan Hembram resigned from primary membership of Congress after the party replaces him, after giving ticket, with a new candidate for Keonjhar Lok Sabha seat. The decision of AICC has embarrassed us. Why did the party give me ticket if I was not competent enough? I will move court if I am not returned [] The post Miffed At Being Denied Ticket, Mohan Hembram Quits Congress appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
IMD issues red alert for several Odisha districts over severe heat wave conditions
Mannara Chopra, a popular Indian actress continues the Chopra legacy. After Priyanka Chopra, Mannara has recently been awarded as one of the Most Influential Young Indians by GQ magazine. The award recognizes the contribution of young Indians who have made a significant impact in their respective fields. Mannaras sister, Priyanka Chopra, has congratulated her on [] The post Mannara Chopra Gets Shoutout From Sister Priyanka Chopra On Being Awarded One Of The Most Influential Young Indians appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Man gets death sentence for 2019 Nayagarh killings
Death sentence awarded in Nayagarh district for killing two and causing the death of a 7-month-old foetus. Termed a 'rarest of rare' case due to fear, havoc, and brutal murder. Victims include Sethi, Pradhan, pregnant woman. Court orders compensation.
TPSODL Enhances Power Infrastructure In Berhampur City
Berhampur: TPSODL (TP Southern Odisha Distribution Limited) has taken significant steps towards ensuring a better and more reliable power supply in Berhampur city. The initiative involves the installation of new distribution transformers across key areas of the city, aimed at elevating the standard of power provision for residents and businesses alike. TPSODL has successfully installed [] The post TPSODL Enhances Power Infrastructure In Berhampur City appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Hanuman Chalisa Significance, Benefits & Meaning
The Hanuman Chalisa is a collection of verses dedicated to Lord Hanuman, who is considered a symbol of devotion, strength, and loyalty in Hindu mythology. This 40-verse (Chalisa) composition, attributed to Tulsidas, one of the most revered poets in Indian history, dates back to the 16th century. The Hanuman Chalisa has been written in Awadhi [] The post Hanuman Chalisa Significance, Benefits & Meaning appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
OJEE 2024 Admit Card released at ojee.nic.in, direct link to download
The Odisha Joint Entrance Examination (OJEE) for the year 2024 is fast approaching, and candidates eagerly await the release of their admit cards. Recently, the OJEE authorities have made a significant announcement by releasing the admit cards for the upcoming examination. Applicants can access their admit cards conveniently by visiting the official website, ojee.nic.in. The website provides a direct link for candidates to download their admit cards hassle-free.
Odisha: Three killed in Angul as motorcycle collides with truck
Angul: Three persons were killed as their motorcycle collided with a truck in Odishas Angul district Saturday morning, police said. The accident happened on NH-55 in the Panchamahala area of the district, they said. All three persons died on the spot. They were identified as Krupa Dehury (48), Rajendra Pradhan (21) and Subrat Pradhan (17). []
Top 10 Health Benefits of Watermelon
Watermelon is an abundant source of many useful nutrients including lycopene, vitamin C, vitamin A, and beta-carotene, and it offers several health benefits. 1. Helps in hydration About 100 g or 1 cup of watermelon provides 91.4 g of water; thus, consuming it is a very effective way to increase your daily water consumption. Moreover, [] The post Top 10 Health Benefits of Watermelon appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Odisha likely to experience severe heat wave conditions for next 4 days
New Delhi: Odisha is likely to experience severe heat wave condition for the next four days, predicted India Meteorological Department. Mercury level is likely to cross 45 degree Celsius in many parts of the State mainly in Northern and interior parts of Western Odisha during the period. IMD has further predicted that temperature may [] The post Odisha likely to experience severe heat wave conditions for next 4 days appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Malayalam hit Manjummel Boys to stream on Disney+ Hotstar from May 5
New Delhi: Malayalam survival thriller Manjummel Boys will be available for streaming on Disney+ Hotstar from May 5, the streamer announced Saturday. The hit movie, written and directed by Chidambaram, hit the theatres February 22 in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, and received widespread acclaim from audiences and critics. Manjummel Boys also became the highest-grossing Malayalam []
Odisha Govt Aided School Students To Receive Iron, Folic Acid Tablets During Summer Vacation
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has decided to provide students of all government and government-aided schools with iron and folic acid (IFA) tablets during the ongoing summer vacation under the Anemia Mukta Lakhsya Abhiyan (AMLAN). According to a notification issued by the School and Mass Education (S&ME) Department, the students of Class 1 to 12 of [] The post Odisha Govt Aided School Students To Receive Iron, Folic Acid Tablets During Summer Vacation appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
We need time in life to stop & smell the roses: Anand Mahindra
New Delhi: Sharing a video showing scenic views from Kalsubai Peak (a mountain in Maharashtra), Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra Saturday said that one should definitely take the time out of their busy schedule to enjoy or appreciate the beauty of life. This is Mt. Kalsubai in Maharashtra near Igatpuri, near our engine factory. Ive []
Archery WC: Indian mens compound, mixed team win gold
Shanghai: Dynamic Duo Indian compound mixed team of Abhishek Verma & Jyothi Surekha Vennam defeated Robin & Lisell Jaatma of Estonia 158-157 to win a third gold medal for India at the Shanghai World Cup, here Saturday. Earlier in the day, the Indian mens compound archery team of Prathamesh Fuge, Priyansh & Abhishek Verma bagged []
Puri In Grip Of Suspected Diarrhoea Outbreak, One Dead, 30 Hospitalised
Puri: One person died while 30 others were affected due to suspected diarrhoea in several places in Puri district, including Balisahi and Redcross road area. The deceased person hailed from Barahi Lane in the district. The affected persons have been admitted to the hospital and are under treatment. The post Puri In Grip Of Suspected Diarrhoea Outbreak, One Dead, 30 Hospitalised appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Professors Suspended As UP Students Clear Exam With Jai Shri Ram Answers
Uttar Pradesh: First year students at an Uttar Pradesh University aced the exam by allegedly writing Jai Shri Ram and names of cricketers in the answer sheet. But then the law caught up. Two professors at state-run Veer Bahadur Singh Purvanchal University in Jaunpur were suspended for allegedly extorting money from students in exchange [] The post Professors Suspended As UP Students Clear Exam With Jai Shri Ram Answers appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Angul: Tragic Collision Claims Three Lives as Motorcycle Crashes into Truck
Angul: Tragic Collision Claims Three Lives as Motorcycle Crashes into Truck Three persons were killed as their motorcycle collided with a truck in Odisha's Angul district on Saturday morning, police said. The accident happened on NH-55 in the Panchamahala area of the district, they said. All three persons died on the spot. They were identified as Krupa Dehury (48), Rajendra Pradhan (21) and Subrat Pradhan (17). They were going towards Angul town from their village Derjanga, police said. While Krupa and Rajendra were traders dealing in fish, Subrat was a student on the way to a coaching class. Irate locals blocked the highway for a while, demanding compensation for the families of the deceased. Police said they have seized the truck and started an investigation to ascertain the exact cause of the accident.
Archery World Cup: Indian mens compound and mixed team win gold
New Delhi: Dynamic Indian Duo compound mixed team of Abhishek Verma & Jyothi Surekha Vennam defeated Robin & Lisell Jaatma of Estonia 158-157 to win third gold medal for India at the Shanghai World Cup on Saturday. Indian mens compound archery team of Prathamesh Fuge, Priyansh & Abhishek Verma bagged the second gold defeating [] The post Archery World Cup: Indian mens compound and mixed team win gold appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Minor Girl Goes Missing While Bathing In River In Kendrapara
Kendrapara: A minor girl went missing while another was rescued after they were swept away while bathing in the Luna River in Kendrapara district on Saturday. The missing girl has been identified as Abhilipsa Behera. The incident occurred in Bandhapada village under Mangalpur panchayat in Kendrapara district. As per reports, the two girls started drowning [] The post Minor Girl Goes Missing While Bathing In River In Kendrapara appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Robert Downey Jr. wants to return as Iron Man, but theres a small problem
Los Angeles: Hollywood star Robert Downey Jr. has expressed interest in reprising his role as Iron Man. However, there is one problem, the character died at the end of Avengers: Endgame. Speaking with GamesRadar at the Sands: International Film Festival, the films directors, Joe and Anthony Russo, seemed baffled at the notion of a Downey []
TMC moves EC over Sandeshkhali raid
Kolkata: The Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Saturday moved the Election Commission against the Central Bureau of Investigations (CBI) raid at two premises of an alleged associate of Sandeshkhali accused Shajahan Sheikh, saying the agencys action was aimed at tarnishing the partys image amid the Lok Sabha elections. Reacting to the recovery of weapons, the [] The post TMC moves EC over Sandeshkhali raid appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
95 Children Rescued From Child Trafficking In UP
Ayodhya: As many as 95 children who were allegedly being transported from Bihar to Uttar Pradesh illegally were rescued by the Uttar Pradesh Child Commission on Friday. As per reports, children were being transported from Bihar to Saharanpur illegally and that they were in Gorakhpur and would go via Ayodhya. The children have been rescued [] The post 95 Children Rescued From Child Trafficking In UP appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Pradeep Majhi also praised Chairman 5T (Transformational Initiatives) V. K. Pandian for the developmental works in Odisha.
60-Year-Old Wins Miss Universe Buenos Aires Beauty Pageant
Buenos Aires: Alejandra Marisa Rodriguez, a 60-year-old Argentine, shattered stereotypes and carved her name into the history books by clinching the coveted title of Miss Universe for the province of Buenos Aires. Her victory, announced on Wednesday, not only celebrates her remarkable journey but also underscores the Miss Universe beauty pageants dedication to embracing [] The post 60-Year-Old Wins Miss Universe Buenos Aires Beauty Pageant appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Three Killed As Truck Hits Bike In Angul, Driver Flees
Angul: Three bike riders were killed after the bike they were riding was hit by a speeding truck on NH 55 near Panchmahal in Angul district on Saturday. As per reports, the three persons hailed from the local area. After the incident, the truck driver fled from the spot. The angry crowd blocked the road, [] The post Three Killed As Truck Hits Bike In Angul, Driver Flees appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Sunita Kejriwal to campaign in Delhi today
New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) convenor Arvind Kejriwals wife Sunita Kejriwal will lead the partys Lok Sabha campaign in the national capital and other states. The partys campaign will kick off with Mrs Kejriwals inaugural roadshow on Saturday, in support of AAPs East Delhi candidate, Kuldeep Kumar. At a [] The post Sunita Kejriwal to campaign in Delhi today appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Odisha: Man gets death sentence in double murder case
Odisha: Man gets death sentence in double murder case Bhubaneswar: A court in Odishas Nayagarh district on Friday sentenced a person to death for killing two persons including an elderly woman in Odagaon area of the district in 2019. The convict was identified as Niranjan Mallik of Kushadhipa village in Nayagarh district. Niranjan, who was [] The post Odisha: Man gets death sentence in double murder case appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
At least 3 dead as truck hits 2-wheeler
Rourkela: Three youths were killed on the spot when the two-wheeler they were riding on was hit from the rear by a coal-laden truck close to the NTPC Power Plant at Darlipali under Bhasma police station late Thursday night. The three deceased were identified as Raghuranjan Pradhan, Ashish Bhoi and Rupak Dharua. The driver of []
Nine Keonjhar villages face acute drinking water scarcity
Hatadihi: With normal life severely affected due to the heatwave, residents in two locked panchayats under this block of Keonjhar district are facing acute drinking water scarcity. The situation has turned really bad as the tube wells in the villages are not working. Many opined that the groundwater level has decreased at an alarming rate []
Kalahandi affected by mass migration
Bhawanipatna: The malady of migration has hit Kalahandi district hard. Every year, thousands from the district are migrating to other states in search of jobs for their livelihoods. Most people migrate to the states of Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Goa. Two of the favourite cities for migration are Mumbai and Pune, sources []
Cops nab 2 Jharkhand criminals
Keonjhar: Police arrested Thursday night, two history sheeters from Jharkhand on charges of committing armed dacoity at a house in Bhanja Colony on PHD Road under Barbil police limits in this district. The accused were identified as Ainul Ansari and Rajpal Singh, both residents of Dhanbad town. A countrymade revolver with three rounds of bullets []
RD students protest over 4th sem exams
Bhubaneswar: Raising concerns over the prevailing extreme heatwave conditions in the city, UG students of Rama Devi Womens University staged a protest in front of the university gate demanding the postponement of fourth-semester exams Friday. The state government announced early summer vacation in schools across the state recently due to intense heat. Then how can []
Beer takes over hard liquor as mercury soars in Odisha
BHUBANESWAR: Heat or no heat, tipplers always find a way out to get high. With Odisha in the grip of a severe heatwave, the demand for beer has gone up considerably in the state. Attributing the jump in sales to soaring temperature, the Excise department said around 19.65 lakh cartons of beer have been sold between April 1 and 25. Each box contains 24 beer cans or as many bottles (500 ml can and 650 ml bottle). Around 13.61 lakh cartons of beer were sold between April 1 and 25 in 2023 and this year beer sales have registered a growth of around 44.37 per cent during the period. The sale of beer registered a growth in the month of March too. Around 26.22 lakh boxes of beer were sold in March this year as compared to 21.31 lakh boxes in the corresponding period of last year registering a growth of 23 per cent. Interestingly, beer sales normally register a growth of 26 per cent to 27 per cent in the month of April but this year the jump is quite significant. Longer heatwave spells and persistent hot weather has possibly shot up the sales of beer this April, said a senior official. Booze lovers said they are opting for beer as the prevailing weather is making them feel quite uncomfortable. Even the evenings are warmer than ever. I prefer chilled beer to beat the heat, said a working professional Sandeep Dwivedy. On the other hand, Excise department sources said, though the state is going through one of the longest heatwave spells in recent years, the demand for Indian made foreign liquor (IMFL) is not very high. Around 10.49 lakh boxes of IMFL were sold in March this year against 9.47 lakh boxes during the corresponding period last year. Similarly, around 3.42 lakh boxes of IMFL were sold between April 1 and 25 this year compared to 3.38 lakh boxes during the same period last year. Meanwhile, Excise department said it has registered a growth in revenue during financial year 2023-2024 against 2022-2023. The department generated revenue of around Rs 10,160 crore during financial year 2023-2024. It recorded a marginal growth of one per cent in revenue through sale of IMFL, 26 per cent growth in revenue in beer sale and around 15 per cent growth in revenue in country liquor sale. Hic! Wheres the bottle? 19.65 lakh cartons of beer sold between April 1 and 25 44.37 pc growth registered during the period 26.22 lakh boxes of beer sold in March this year
Boom in dairy business as summer advances in Odisha
BHUBANESWAR: With the severe heatwave showing no signs of relenting anytime soon, the demand for refreshing beverages like lassi and buttermilk has surged across the state leading to a significant uptick in the businesses of dairy shops and firms. The heatwave since the beginning of April has made dairy products a go-to choice for consumers. This in turn has amplified business across the sector, with many firms and shops reporting record-breaking sales. Some even are struggling to meet the high market demand and are ramping up production to meet consumers needs. The demand for lassi and buttermilk in my shop has gone up significantly this month and sale of the products has almost doubled,said Hrudananda Puhan, a dairy product seller in Bomikhal area of the city. States apex dairy cooperative society Odisha State Cooperative Milk Producers Federation Limited (OMFED) is reaping the benefits of the season with the companys sweetened flavoured milk (SFM) products recording over 95 per cent growth over the previous season. The milk federation has posted sales of 17,116 SFM bottles in April so far this year compared to 8,769 SFM bottles in the corresponding month of previous year. Similarly, sale of buttermilk has recorded 79 per cent growth with the product supply remaining 14,536 litre this April against 8,125 litre previous April. Sale of OMFED curd this month has posted an impressive growth of 34 per cent over the corresponding month of the previous season,said a senior official from the milk federation. Apart from the prevailing heatwave conditions, our competitive pricing and attractive offers are encouraging consumers to opt for OMFED dairy products, he said, adding in the coming days the federation is planning to launch tetra packs of lassi and buttermilk in Odisha market. Apart from OMFED, business of private dairy firms have also recorded a surge. The sale of our dairy products including lassi and buttermilk has recorded a huge spike in the recent times owing to their demand in the current season,said an official of Pragati Milk Products Pvt Limited. He, however, said the growing demand poses a challenge to increase production due to limited scope of improving milk production from the existing livestock. Milky relief OMFED sweetened flavoured milk has recorded 95 pc growth over previous season 17,117 SFM bottles sold by OMFED in April so far Buttermilk sale has recorded 79 pc growth
Odisha: Rama Devi college students stage stir over examination
BHUBANESWAR: Students protests over holding of examinations were witnessed at two higher educational institutions on Friday. At Rama Devi Womens University in capital city, students demanded postponement of Plus III second year examination owing to the prevailing heatwave condition. The examination is scheduled to be held from April 30. Staging a demonstration outside the university, the students said travelling to the campus at the peak hours and appearing the examination will not be possible on their part. Similarly, those residing in university hostels alleged the rooms are not well ventilated which makes living in them difficult during summer. Taking up the issue with the vice-chancellor, the students demanded the examination be held any day after the summer vacation. Similar agitation was seen at the Dhenkanal Womens College where students demanded postponement of the semester examinations after the summer vacation. For the 2024-25 academic session, the Higher Education department has notified summer vacation from May 4 to June 17.
Harsh weather to aggravate in Odisha, says IMD
BHUBANESWAR: Even as Odisha continues to be in the grip of a severe heatwave, Angul recorded 44.6 degree Celsius becoming the fourth hottest place in Asia on Friday. The day temperature in the district was above normal by 4.4 degree C. At least 32 places recorded 40 degree C or more with Angul reporting the maxiumum temperature in the state. Boudh sizzled at 44.5 degree C and Nuapada and Balangir recorded 44 degree C each. Bhubaneswar and Cuttack recorded 40.5 degree C and 40.8 degree C respectively. Districts like Mayurbhanj, Nuapada, Boudh, Nabarangpur, Ganjam, Khurda, Deogarh and Kendrapara also witnessed heatwave condition on the day. The harsh weather is expected to aggravate further with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting a rise in maximum temperature by 2 degree C in the state within 48 hours. While the maximum (day) temperature is likely to remain above normal by 4 degree C to 6 degree C in some districts of Odisha during next four to five days, the regional Met office requested citizens to take adequate precautions while venturing outside between 11 am and 3 pm. In the next 48 hours, some places may record a further rise in day temperature by 2 degree C. A few districts are expected to experience severe heatwave condition during the next four to five days, said Bhubaneswar Meteorological Centre scientist, Umasankar Das. Heatwave to severe heatwave condition is likely to prevail in Kendrapara, Bhadrak, Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Jharsuguda, Sundargarh, Keonjhar, Dhenkanal, Boudh, Nuapada and Angul districts on Saturday. Similarly, heatwave is expected in Cuttack, Khurda and 15 other districts during the period. The maximum temperature in the capital city is expected to hover around 42 degree C on Saturday. A few places in Puri, Khurda and four other districts may, however, receive temporary respite as there is a possibility of light to moderate rainfall and thundershower activity on Saturday.
PhD applications plummet in premier research institute Institute of Life Sciences
BHUBANESWAR: One of Indias premier research organisations, Institute of Life Sciences (ILS), Bhubaneswar is not getting enough PhD scholars it requires to carry out various research and development activities. The number of applicants has drastically dropped from around 258 in 2022 to 88 this year leaving many scientists and researchers worried. Several scholars, who get selected after a rigorous process either do not join or leave their research halfway. One of the 17 national institutions run by the Department of Biotechnology, ILS is known for its studies on infectious disease biology, cancer research and plant and microbial biotechnology. The institute has been a part of the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), a multi-agency, pan-India network to monitor genomic variations in the novel coronavirus and carrying out genomic surveillance activities for states, including Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra. Although PhD scholars are the main workforce who drive the R&D activities at ILS, the declining number of applicants and selected candidates have become a cause of concern. The institute had received over 250 applications each during the Covid pandemic period in 2020 and 2021. It is a concern for us as the applicants are declining, said a scientist. The phenomenon of dwindling PhD applications is not limited to one specific field and spans across core areas including infectious diseases, cancer biology, genetic and autoimmune disorders besides plant and microbial biotechnology. The situation was so precarious that the institute had received only 27 applications till the last date this session and the applicants went up to 88 only after the deadline was extended. The selection procedure has also come under scrutiny with many applicants flagging irregularities and questionable allocation of guides to prospective scholars. While only 49 applicants have been shortlisted this year, some meritorious students who have scored high and secured higher ranks have not been given the opportunity to work with the guides of their choice. They alleged that some candidates with lower ranks have been preferred.The selection and guide allocation are non-transparent and questionable. Apparently, malpractices during the PhD candidate selection has become a norm for last couple of years leading to disillusionment among hopeful scholars, alleged an aspirant. Sources said PhD candidates are at the mercy of guides and sometimes are subjected to harassment. A scholar had reportedly attempted to harm herself due to torture by a guide a few months back while another allegation is under investigation, sources added. ILS director Debasis Dash said the applicants in 2022 were high due to backlogs of previous year. The institute is one of the preferred organisations for PhD scholars. After Covid period many scholars moved out of the country and it may have impacted, he said. Dash, however, refuted allegations of irregularity in selection procedure. Students and guide selection is a matrix and students always have the first choice. Sometimes they leave if they do not get the guide of their choice, he added.
KIMS surgeons remove two kg tumour without opening chest
BHUBANESWAR: Surgeons at KIMS Cancer Centre achieved a remarkable feat by successfully operating on a young man with an unusually large left-sided massive two-kg diaphragmatic tumour, marking a significant milestone in surgical oncology. The team led by surgical oncologist Dr Sabyasachi Parida removed the tumour, which measured approximately 24x17 cm, from the diaphragm without opening the chest. The exceptional case, where the tumour hindered the patients ability to consume solid food, presented unique challenges for the surgeons. Usually, accessing such tumours requires invasive procedures, including opening both the abdomen and chest, often causing considerable discomfort for patients. However, Dr Paridas innovative approach avoided the need for a chest incision or a chest drain, significantly reducing post-operative pain and shortening the patients recovery process. The team executed a meticulous dissection utilising the state-of-the-art equipment and modern modular operating theatre at KIMS ensuring the safety and well-being of the patient. The six-hour procedure concluded without intra-operative complications or the need for blood transfusion. We reconstructed the large diaphragmatic defect after the successful excision of the tumour. The patient recovered swiftly without the need for intensive care or respiratory support, said Dr Parida. The surgical team comprised consultant anaesthetist Dr Monika Dabgotra and technician Bibhas Prasad Barik besides OT support staff and nursing officers.
IMD predicts severe heatwave conditions over Odisha, West Bengal for next five days
West Bengal, Odisha, Jharkhand, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu to witness heatwave conditions the next five days, predicts IMD
Orissa HC voices concern over false cases under POCSO Act
CUTTACK: The Orissa High Court has expressed concern over rise in false cases being filed under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act while quashing criminal prosecution against the accused in five separate cases of sexual offences under the Act. In all the cases the accused had sought quashing of the respective criminal cases on the ground that the parties have settled their disputes and they no longer desire to pursue the trial. The order said that except in one case, where the genesis of sexual relationship between the accused and the victim can be said to be forcible, unilateral act by the accused, in all the four other cases, the sexual act was consensual, voluntary though uncontrolled and impulsive indiscretions out of mutual love and affection. Four of the cases had ended in marriage between accused and the victim at different stages of proceedings after FIR was registered and chargesheet was filed. The parties are purportedly leading happily married conjugal lives and had approached jointly praying for quashing the respective proceedings. In view of the fact that the victims are not desirous of pursuing the matter further, the possibility of securing a conviction is not only remote but it may adversely affect the mental, emotional, and educational well-being of the victim and the happy conjugal and family life they are leading with perhaps one or more children born out of such union, the single judge bench of Justice Sibo Sankar Mishra observed in the April 22 order. Justice Mishra said, In this view of the matter, continuing the proceedings for prosecuting and punishing the accused will have the undesired and self-defeating effect of punishing the victim as well which will go against the avowed objective and purpose of the Act itself. As per the Act, a child below the age of 18 years is incapable of giving consent for sexual relations. Thus, any sexual relationship with a child below the age of 18 years would lead to an offence under the POCSO Act. The POCSO Act was enacted with the ultimate objective of prohibiting non-consensual and forced sexual relationships with children, including child sexual abuse and sexual harassment. While the stringent provisions of the POCSO Act have contributed positively to reducing instances of sexual violence against children, they have also led to an increase in vindictive litigation, with false cases being filed against individuals under the Act, Justice Mishra remarked. The Judge added, The teenage romance often turns into cohabiting consensually and the girl alleges rape due to pressure from the family, fear of the society or when the boy refuses to marry. Since sexual intercourse with a minor is considered statutory rape, the criminal case is registered, Justice Mishra stated, adding, In change of the fabric of the society, there has been a rise of love relationship wherein one of the parties is below the age of 18 years or both the parties are underage but due to some petty reasons or/and there is rift between them a case is filed invoking the POCSO Act offence.
Odisha Human Rights Commission summons State, Centre, NHAI on NH-55 fatalities
BHUBANESWAR: The Odisha Human Rights Commission (OHRC) on Friday summoned the state government, Centre, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and NH project director of Sambalpur in connection with road accident deaths on Cuttack-Sambalpur NH-55. Acting on a petition filed by lawyer Shivsankar Mohanty, the human rights panel asked the principal secretary of Works department, secretary of Union Road Transport and Highways and NHAI authorities to submit their response before the next hearing in July. In his petition, Mohanty drew the attention of the panel towards rise in road accidents and fatalities on NH-55 due to haphazard constructions and its deplorable condition. An alarming 401 accidents took place on the highway in 2023 in which 186 people died, he said. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways had decided to expand the 265-km highway to four-lane in 2005. The expansion work that started 12 years late in 2017 is yet to be completed despite several deadlines being missed. The four-laning work was to be finished by September, 2020. The NH-55 passes through Angul and NH-53 through Kaniha and Talcher while NH-149 connects Banrapal to Pallahara. These highways have turned into death trap due to lack of repairs. Road accidents have become a regular affair on several stretches, the petition stated. Citing several high courts have already held that roads without potholes are a fundamental right of citizens under Article 21 of the Constitution, the petitioner alleged, the condition of NH-55 relates to negligence on the part of the respondents to provide safe road communication. As per sections 4 and 5 of The National Highways Act, 1956 read with section 16 of the NHAI Act, 1988 there is no doubt NHAI is responsible for the maintenance of the highway, including the stretch on NH-55 on which the accidents occurred during expansion work, Mohanty said while demanding adequate compensation for the kin of those who lost their lives in accidents.
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Monkey attack injures 11 in Odisha's Jajpur
JAJPUR: A stray monkey has been wreaking havoc on the outskirts of Panikoili bazaar in Jajpur district for the past couple of days, leaving residents and passers-by in a state of terror. Sources said, at least 11 people, including five children, have been injured after being reportedly attacked by the monkey. The simian has been targeting individuals, especially children, who pass through the Panikoili-Namitikiri road, giving a tough time to the Forest department officials to capture him. The monkey has been residing on a banyan tree near Padmanabheswar Mahadev temple on the outskirts of Panikoili bazaar on Panikoili-Namitikiri road recently. When it finds any individual alone, particularly a child, passing by, he climbs down, bites and goes back to the tree. The monkey has been creating havoc in the locality by chasing and biting passers-by, alleged local Nimai Charan Mallick. Locals are forced to stay indoors following the terror created by the rouge monkey and have also tried to chase it away but to no avail, he added. Forest department personnel have been deployed to track down and trap the rogue monkey. Forester Nilima Priyadarshini Nayak said efforts are underway to capture the wild animal and put an end to the terror it has unleashed.
Anvesh of DAV CS Pur tops JEE Main session-II in Odisha
BHUBANESWAR: City boy Anvesh Subham Pradhan, a Pradhan Mantri Bal Puraskar recipient, with 99.99 percentile has emerged as the state topper in JEE (Main) session-II, the results of which were declared by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on Thursday. The DAV Public School, Chandrasekharpur student had also secured 99.93 percentile in JEE (Main) session-I. With declaration of the JEE results, a total of 118 students of DAV Public School, Chandrasekharpur have qualified for the JEE Advanced, scheduled on May 26. Out of the qualifiers, 16 students have scored more than 99 percentile and 32 more than 98 percentile. A number of students from the schools own managed SUPER-40 programme have been enlisted in the elite list, school officials said. Regional director of DAV Institutions, Odisha KC Satapathy, principal of the school Sujata Sahu and others congratulated Anvesh and other qualifiers for their phenomenal success and wished them for JEE Advanced.
BJP's Samir Mohanty cries conspiracy over Odisha CMs nomination, BJD says wait till June 4
BHUBANESWAR: Reiterating Union Home Minister Amit Shahs statement at a meeting of party functionaries, former state president of BJP Samir Mohanty on Friday said by contesting from two Assembly segments in the ensuing elections, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik wants to leave one for his political successor. Addressing a media conference here, Mohanty said, The chief minister plans to vacate one of the two seats after the elections so that VK Pandian can contest from there. It will help the chief minister announce Pandian as his successor later. Mohanty said Pandian is in the list of star campaigners of BJD. He is the number two in the regional party after the chief minister. Voting for BJD means the path for Pandian to take over the administration is being cleared. But the people of Odisha already know the plans of the chief minister and would never allow this to happen, he said. The BJP leader said people of Odisha have not forgotten the manner in which democracy was killed in the state in the name of 5T. People will give a fitting reply to BJD for the ill-treatment meted out to ministers, MPs and MLAs, he said. Strongly countering Mohantys statement, BJD Rajya Sabha member and spokesperson Sulata Deo told mediapersons here it is a figment of imagination of BJP leaders. She alleged the statement read by Mohanty was produced by the fake news factory of BJP. BJPs Odisha leaders always make such baseless allegations whenever they realise they are going to lose the elections. Deo said the 2024 elections will be a repeat of 2019 and it seems BJP leaders have got an inkling of it because of which they are unable to think logically. Mohanty is yet to get over the drubbing that the BJP suffered during his stint as the party president in the panchayat elections, she added.
Odisha Minister Tukuni Sahu puts BJD in a spot with Padampur district formation
BHUBANESWAR/BALANGIR: Water Resources Minister and BJD candidate from Titlagarh Assembly seat Tukuni Sahu has put her party in a spot by stating she would have resigned had Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik gone ahead with the decision to create Padampur district. The minister was speaking at a function for felicitation of senior citizens at Titlagarh. A video of her speech has become viral in the social media in which Sahu says the demand for separate district status to Titlagarh is a long-pending one. While the demand has not been fulfilled till date, formation of Padampur district would have been injustice for residents of Titlagarh, she said. Those who accuse me of failing in my efforts for formation of Titlagarh district, I want to say I had mentally decided to submit my resignation to the chief minister the day Padampur district would have been announced. But the chief minister did not let me do that. If districts are formed in the state, Titlagarh will be on top of the list, she said. Political observers said Sahu may have made the statement to placate the voters of Titlagarh from where she is contesting, but it will have its repercussions in other seats of western Odisha region. Formation of a separate district is a major issue in this election at least in Balangir, Sambalpur and Bargarh. The chief minister had promised to make Padampur a separate district while campaigning during bypoll to the Assembly segment following the demise of former minister Bijay Ranjan Singh Bariha. Barsha Singh Bariha, daughter of Bijay Ranjan, had won in the bypoll by defeating Pradip Purohit of BJP. However, Padampur is yet to get district status. The state government had started the preliminary exercise for conferment of district status to Padampur. However, it was stopped following Orissa High Courts order. The state government has made no further attempts to pursue the matter and only posted an additional district magistrate at Padampur.
Odisha: Congress prepares for Rahuls address at Salipur, Mahanga
CUTTACK: Congress workers are busy preparing for party leader Rahul Gandhis address at a public meeting in Salipur and Mahanga of Cuttack district on Sunday. Rahul is scheduled to kick off the election campaign of Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) from the birthplace of Utkal Gaurav Madhusudan Das at Satyabhamapur in Salipur Assembly segment on the birth anniversary of the son of the soil. As per schedule, Rahul will arrive at Satyabhamapur in a helicopter at 10 am. After garlanding the statue of Madhu Babu, he will proceed towards Regulatory Market Committee (RMC) ground along Cuttack-Chandbali state highway at Kulia in Mahanga Assembly segment to attend a public meeting, to be organised by OPCC. He will address party workers at 10.30 am. In view of Rahuls visit, a team of OPCC leaders including former union minister and OPCC campaign committee chairman Bhakta Das along with AICC general secretary Ajoy Kumar and Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka visited Madhu Babus birthplace at Satyabhamapur and RMC ground at Kulia on Friday evening to take stock of preparedness. Kumar and Vikramarka also held discussions with Cuttack District Congress Committee president Manas Choudhury, partys Kendrapara Lok Sabha candidate Sidharth Swarup Das, Mahanga MLA candidate Debendra Kumar Sahoo and Salipur Assembly candidate Aquib Uzzaman Khan on their prospects, preparedness and arrangements for bringing party workers to the public meeting.
Fight for Odia pride, self-respect, independence: Dharmendra Pradhan
BHUBANESWAR/ANGUL: Launching a scathing attack on the ruling BJD, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Friday said that the ensuing election is going to be fought between Odia pride and slave mentality. Addressing voters during campaigning at Chhendipada and Angul, Pradhan said many people want to be slave in an inactive and inefficient government which lasted for 25 years. But I do not like to be a slave, he said and added that there has been no development in Odisha in 25 years. Calling the BJD government inefficient and responsible for lack of any development in the state, Pradhan alleged that non-Odia government servants have conspired to loot the state. This election will be against those who want to loot Odisha. It is fight for Odia pride, self-respect and independence, he said. The union minister said political persons have been ignored in the BJD government. He criticised the government for its all round failure and said there is no drinking water facility in villages, no doctor in hospitals, schools also have no teachers and thousands migrate to other states for jobs. But the state government and BJD leaders claim they are always working for development, he added. Pradhan who is BJPs Sambalpur Lok Sabha seat candidate said the popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is growing in the country and there is Modi wave in Odisha. With the blessings of Lord Jagannath, BJP will form government and take the state on the path development. He urged people to vote for BJP to protect Odia culture, language and pride. The union minister also participated in rallies at Angul and Chhendipada. He also attended a mishrana parba event where local BJD leader Ashok Pradhan joined BJP accompanied by more than 2,000 workers.
BJP Sambalpur candidate Pranab Das rakes up issue of GST on kendu leaf
SAMBALPUR: BJDs organisational secretary and Lok Sabha candidate from Sambalpur Pranab Prakash Das on Friday attacked the central government over imposition of GST on kendu leaves. Addressing a public gathering at Jamankira under Kuchinda Assembly seat in Sambalpur, Das said Odisha government is providing all kinds of support to Kendu leaf pluckers of the state. But the 18 per cent GST imposed by the central government on kendu leaves has made the life of pluckers miserable. Despite repeated pleas to the Centre, the GST is not being withdrawn. There must be a lot of kendu leaf pluckers here. But the MP whom you voted and sent to Delhi has not opened his mouth on the matter. To raise the voice of kendu leaf pluckers in Delhi, you will have to vote for the conch symbol twice in the election, he added. Incidentally, Jamankira is home to a large number of voters who work as kendu leaf pluckers to earn their livelihood. Earlier in the day, Das kick-started his campaign trail in Jamankira with a mega motorcycle rally. BJDs candidate from Kuchinda Assembly seat Rajendra Chhatria was present.
BJDs woman card will not work in Jeypore: Congress LS candidate Bahinipati
JEYPORE: Two-time MLA and Congress candidate for Jeypore Assembly constituency Tara Prasad Bahinipati on Friday accused the BJD-led state government of allegedly cheating women of the region on the pretext of empowering them through self-help groups (SHGs). Speaking to mediapersons here, Bahinipati said the state government has been luring innocent tribal women of giving loans through SHGs eyeing the poll prospects. But in reality, no money or scheme is being provided to them. Unfortunately, the poor tribal women are seen running from pillar to post to avail loans for development of the tribal areas but in vain. These are nothing but hollow assurances by the BJD to get votes, he said. The Congress candidate further stated that the woman card played by the ruling party will not work in Jeypore Assembly constituency as women voters have already realised the truth and this will reflect in the coming elections. The BJD candidate here is asking women SHG members to join her in rallies and meetings by giving false promises, he said. BJD leader and candidate from Jeypore Assembly segment Indira Nanda has been asserting that party supremo and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has prioritised women in the segment by giving ticket to a female candidate and that the woman card will swing votes in favour of the ruling party this elections. Nanda began her poll campaign on Thursday in different panchayats of Jeypore block where she held meetings in Dangarchinchi and Patraput villages and sought peoples support in winning the polls. The BJD has for the first time fielded a woman candidate from Jeypore Assembly constituency. I appeal to all of you to support me in the upcoming election, she added.
28 new fire points found in Similipal National Park in last 24 hours
BARIPADA: The Similipal National Park management on Friday informed that around 28 new fire points were detected in the last 24 hours in the tiger habitat. Meanwhile, the 31 fire points identified on Thursday have been successfully doused. Regional chief conservator of forests-cum-field director of STR Prakash Chand Gogineni said four fire points were traced in Baripada division, one in Rairangpur, 14 in STR South wildlife division, four in STR North wildlife division, one in Balasore division and four in Keonjhar wildlife division. The fire points were detected by AI satellite monitoring. Gogineni lauded the efforts of foresters, forest guards, ODRAF, ex-Army personnel and members of Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) in successfully putting out the blaze. Official sources said since Similipal often faces the challenge of wildfires in summer, the Forest department and ODRAF have mobilised personnel in the national park for effective tackling of such situations. The fire is extinguished with the help of air blowers after which the fire lines are restored, they said. They said the staff network is strengthened inside the park so as to identify forest fires and take immediate steps to prevent further spread of the blaze. Besides, a platoon of police personnel are deployed at strategic locations to protect the animals and prevent entry of poachers into the park, they added.
Odisha court hands death penalty to accused for double murder
BERHAMPUR: The additional district and sessions court of Nayagarh on Friday pronounced death penalty on the accused in the sensational Odogaon double murder in 2019. Niranjan Mallik, a resident of Kushdhipi village under Odogaon police station, was convicted by the court for killing two persons and brutally assaulting three others in January 2019. This probably is the first case in which an accused has been sentenced to death in Nayagarh district. The court pronounced the verdict after examining statements of 27 witnesses and the police investigation report. On the fateful day, Mallik first attacked Trilochan Sethi, a security guard at Odogaon market, bludgeoning him to death. Then, he forcefully entered into the house of Badni Pradhan and killed her. He also assaulted her daughter, leaving her seriously injured. Mallicks murderous charge continued as he attacked two others Damodar Sahu and Amuli Barik, leaving them seriously hurt. The incident led to a law and order situation. He had also attacked police personnel before his arrest and injured the then IIC Jyotiprakash Panda.
Hockey star Prabodh joins Odisha BJP, to be partys minority face
ROURKELA: After being unceremoniously dumped by the Congress, former Indian hockey captain Prabodh Tirkey (39) has landed in the BJP camp to boost the morale of the already upbeat rank and file of the saffron party in tribal-dominated Sundargarh district. On Thursday, Prabodh joined the BJP in presence of Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, the partys state president Manmohan Samal and a host of senior leaders at the meeting venue of Home Minister Amit Shah in Sonepur. Prabodhs induction ceremony took place just before Shahs arrival. In the run-up to the elections for Sundargarh Lok Sabha (LS) constituency and the seven Assembly seats under it on May 20, the former tribal star player in all likelihood would be the BJPs minority face, especially to woo the decisive Christian voters. A Catholic Christian, Prabodh returned to his native place Nuapada under Lulkidihi Mouza of Balishankara block in Talsara Assembly seat and joined Congress on September 4, 2023. After the Congress announced his candidature from Talsara on April 2, he even kicked off his election campaign. However, the Congress released another list of candidates on April 14 in which it replaced Prabodh with a lesser-known new entrant Debendra Bhitiria, leaving senior party leaders in shock and dismay. Sources said with the BJP looking to woo the minority voters, it carefully read the developments and inducted Prabodh at the right time. On April 21 and 22, Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs John Barla toured the Assembly constituencies of Sundargarh having strategic presence of Christian voters and held several meetings with the church leaders. With the right representation, Prabodh could prove to be an asset for BJP in Sundargarh, they added. A newbie in politics, Prabodh said, I am happy and relaxed after joining the BJP. After being insulted by Congress, the BJP has given me respect. I left my job last year to join politics with a hope to serve the people and ensure development of Talsara Assembly constituency. The BJP is the right platform for me. Whatever responsibility is given to me, I will serve the party with dedication and sincerity. He further said with the BJPs vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Bikash, Sabka Biswas and Sabka Prayas, he would be able to woo the Christian and other minority voters in favour of the saffron party. Incidentally, the BJD too had the opportunity to get Prabodh in its side. But the ruling party ignored him as it was apparently in a dilemma over Prabodhs use in the party. The BJD already has hockey legend Dilip Tirkey who is the partys Sundargarh LS candidate. Dilip is also a Christian and hails from the same Balishankara block. BJPs Sundargarh LS candidate Jual Oram said Prabodhs entry in the saffron party negates the oppositions plan of portraying the BJP as a demon in the eyes of minority people. The presence of Prabodh in BJP also deflates the BJDs claim of getting all Christian votes in Sundargarh.
Odisha farmers seek diversion of coastal highway under Bharatmala
JAGATSINGHPUR: Worried over the possibility of losing their agriculture land to the proposed coastal highway under Bharatmala Pariyojana, farmers of Biridi tehsil on Friday met Jagatsinghpur collector Anupam Saha to reiterate their demand of diverting the route. The farmers demanded that the proposed highway be constructed on government land and the dead Paika river rather than their fertile agricultural land. They threatened to stage protest if their grievances are not taken into consideration. Residents of Biridi tehsil are worried since the proposed highway project scheduled to pass through their area, is likely to affect nearly 150 acre agriculture land of around 1,000 farmers. They had earlier sought the intervention of the collector in September 2023 requesting that the highway be rerouted. Sources said around 90 per cent of the affected farmers are small and marginal making them particularly vulnerable to land loss due to the project. Further, the project could permanently impact their livelihood by affecting paddy, green gram, vegetable crops and irrigation supplies. Farmers also expressed concern that the highway could obstruct the release of floodwaters, potentially causing flooding in the Hansua river. Besides, lack of industry in the locality means many local youth reliant on agriculture for their livelihoods, will be severely impacted by land acquisition for this project. Sources said the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has commissioned STUP Consultants Pvt Ltd to prepare detailed project report (DPR) for development of economic corridors, inter-corridors and feeder routes. As part of the DPR, Bajali Surveyorswas engaged to fix boundary markers in various villages under Biridi Tehsil. Last year, the farmers were assured them that the proposed highway would not pass through Biridi. However, the surveyors began installing boundary markers on agriculture land in March leading to widespread protest. Owing to the protest, the surveyors fled without completing work after which the administration requested detailed information from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways on the issue. Subsequently, boundary wall erection work was halted across several villages including Sibapur, Shankarpur, Adhang Garh, Adhang Majurai, Amulshai, Talpatak, Alandoa, and others. This halt was extended to Raghunathpur and Jagatsinghpur tehsils too. A senior surveyor of Bajali Surveyors Niraj Solanki, said owing to the ongoing protests boundary wall erection have been stopped in many tehsils including Biridi since the last over one month. The administration and the NHAI have been informed in this regard, he said. Biridi tehsildar Sanjay Kumar Behera could not be contacted over the issue.
INTERVIEW | I am no stranger to politics, will work for Paradips growth: BJD's Gitanjali Routray
Gitanjali Routray, BJD candidate for the prestigious Paradip Assembly segment, has a job at hand. She is new to electoral politics and has a Routray legacy to carry. In a politically-charged seat, the masters degree holder homemaker will have dissidence to overcome. Gitanjali talks to Amarnath Parida on how she plans her first maiden MLA campaign You are new to politics. How do you plan to tackle dissidence your husband and sitting MLA Sambit Routray faced? Despite being a first-time candidate, I am no stranger to politics. Coming from a political family, I faced some initial dissidence during ticket allocation which is not uncommon. I managed to bridge the gap by engaging with dissenting groups and other stakeholders. My strategy involved door-to-door interactions, forming a core committee to address concerns and seeking support from womens groups who had initially protested candidature of my husband, the sitting MLA Sambit Routray. Have you gained any political insights from your father-in-law, veteran leader Damodar Rout which could help you in politics? My political inspiration comes from my father-in-law, the late Damodar Rout, a respected figure in the region. His advice to stay connected with common people has had a profound impact on my approach. I acknowledge that being identified as Damodar Routs daughter-in-law has its advantages, helping me gain recognition and trust among voters. How has your husband contributed to your entry into politics? My husband has been instrumental in introducing me to the public during previous campaigns. His support and my involvement in election activities alongside him have laid the groundwork. Have you started campaigning? Are you leveraging the sympathy people might have for your father-in-law to attract voters? I have already begun my election campaign across various panchayats, seeking the blessings of people. I feel the sympathy and support from the community, largely due to the respect and admiration they hold for my father-in-law. Senior BJD leaders who were close to Damodar Rout have expressed their support for me. Who is your role model - your husband or your father-in-law? Both my husband and father-in-law are my role models in politics. My husband has five years of experience, while my father-in-law had a stellar political career spanning 40 years. My father-in-law used to share his political experiences with me and advised me to engage with people, including women, to help resolve their issues which is proving helpful in my current political journey. You are a homemaker. Can you succeed in the upcoming election given your lack of experience in politics? Despite being a homemaker, I have taken on a dual role, campaigning with my husband for the past five years when he was contesting for this seat. My mother-in-law was a teacher, and she had campaigned in support of my father-in-law. This guidance has allowed me to successfully manage both roles, as a housewife and as an active participant in politics. What is your vision for Paradip Assembly constituency? My primary focus, if elected, includes addressing environmental concerns due to industrial growth in Paradip, to establish a super-specialty hospital and a model hospital in Kujang to improve healthcare infrastructure and tackle water scarcity. Bapi Sarkhel and his wife, Monidipa Sarkhel, joined BJD. Are you facing any challenges from them? Bapi Sarkhel had disrespected my father-in-law when he contested against Dama Babu. However, he has since realised his mistake and decided to help me as a mark of honor for my late father-in-law. Both Sarkhel and his wife are now keenly supporting my campaign.
Dissidence in Odisha BJP after Sidhant Mohapatra chosen for Digapahandi
BERHAMPUR: Dissidence in the BJP cadre is palpable as the workers are unhappy with the partys decision to nominate cine star Sidhant Mohapatra from the Digapahandi Assembly segment. Sidhant won twice from Berhampur Lok Sabha constituency on a BJD ticket in 2009 and 2014 only to be denied nomination in 2019. He switched to the saffron party recently and was fielded from Digapahandi which has sparked dissatisfaction in the BJP ranks. This discontent is compounded by Bipin Pradhan, a strong contender from the segment, who joined the BJP recently after quitting the BJD. Besides, several others including BJP leaders Srikant Padhy were active in the region with hope for a party ticket. Rift within the segment, traditionally a stronghold of BJD, has deepened since the passing of sitting MLA and veteran BJD leader Surjya Narayan Patro. While his son Biplab Patra holds the reign of one faction, the other group is under the control of Bipin. Last year, Bipin was suspended from the BJD for anti-party activities but he did lay low till BJD declared Biplab as its candidate. Bipin joined BJP soon after but his entry into the saffron party is a double-edged sword. He enjoys support from various panchayats, further dividing the constituency. Interestingly, Sidhant and Biplab used to be good friends as they worked together during the actors past electoral endeavours from Berhampur Lok Sabha seat. Their paths have diverged this time with Sidhant vying for BJP support while Biplab is consolidating his position within the ruling party. Additionally, dissidents from both BJD and BJP have entered the fray as Independent candidates, complicating the dynamics. With Congress candidate Saka Sujit Kumars entry, the seat will see an intriguing fight. In fact, Congress had first nominated Sridhar Deb who also filed his nomination on Thursday. Now, he has been replaced by Sujit Kumar.
A close finish expected between BJD and BJP candidates in Odisha's Jagatsinghpur
BHUBANESWAR: The Jagatsinghpur Lok Sabha constituency has transitioned from a Congress stronghold to a BJD bastion over the last two decades with the BJP never being able to manage a foothold in the seat. However, despite winning the Lok Sabha seat and all the seven Assembly segments under it in 2019, and polling over 50 per cent of the votes in 2014 and 2019, there seems to be a sense of unease in the BJD camp this time. Though the party has repeated the sitting MP Rajashree Mallick, it has changed candidates in four out of the seven Assembly segments. Those who have been dropped include two former ministers Samir Dash from Nimapara and Raghunandan Das from Balikuda-Erasama. The party has also replaced Sambit Routray with wife Gitanjali Routray from Paradip Asembly segment. The BJP has also renominated Bibhu Prasad Tarai from the seat. Tarai, a former CPI MP from the seat, had polled over 3.48 lakh votes in 2019. Interestingly, Tarai had contested the 2014 election as a Congress candidate from the seat and also polled 3.48 lakh votes. Besides, he had also won the seat on a CPI ticket in 2009. This has proved that besides party affiliations, Tarai also has some sort of a personal vote bank in the area. BJP sources maintained that this was the reason why the saffron party nominated Tarai for the second time. The party expects a close finish in the ensuing election. The BJD on its part has also taken steps to bolster the party position in the seat by inducting former state working president of the Congress Chiranjeev Biswal and appointing him election coordinator for the seat. Besides, it has also inducted Monideepa Sarkhel, wife of Bapi Sarkhel to the party. A large number of local Congress leaders have also joined the ruling party in the recent days. Sources in the BJD said that induction of these leaders was aimed to broaden the partys support base further and minimise the negative impact from the Assembly segments. Though it dropped Sambit Routray from Paradip, his wife Gitanjali was nominated as the party did not want to upset the support base of Damodar Rout family. The veteran leader had passed away recently and the party did not wish to go against the sympathy factor. Observers, however, believe that BJD candidate will have to counter the anti-incumbency factor against the regional outfit which is in power at all levels in the district including a majority of panchayats. While the party has taken enough precautions to tide over such an eventuality, a senior BJD leader confided that the situation is different this time as a groundswell of support for the BJP can be sensed from the popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the area. It remains to be seen how far the BJP can challenge the BJDs organisational strength in the seat. The Congress has also fielded a veteran leader and former minister Rabindra Kumar Sethy from the seat. Sethy had contested from the LS seat in a Congress ticket unsuccessfully in 2009 and had polled 3.8 lakh votes. Sethys performance in this election will be key to the fortunes of both the BJD and BJP, sources said.
Nomination filing for phase II polls in Odisha kicks off
BHUBANESWAR: The nomination filing process for the second phase of general elections to five Lok Sabha constituencies and 35 Assembly segments in the state commenced on Friday. As per the notification of the Election Commission of India (ECI), Bargarh, Sundargarh, Balangir, Kandhamal, and Aska Lok Sabha constituencies and their 35 Assembly segments will go to polls in the second phase on May 20. Nomination filing for the phase will continue till May 3, while the papers will be scrutinised on May 4. Candidates will be able to withdraw their nominations till May 6. ECI representatives in the state said a total of 79.62 lakh voters including 40.30 lakh males and 39.31 lakh females will exercise their franchise during the phase. The usual voting timing for simultaneous polls in the seats is 7 am to 6 pm. However, keeping in view of security, the timing of voting in booths of some of the constituencies will be adjusted, sources said. In order to ensure a free and fair elections, the ECI has already mobilised resources to check model code of conduct violation and other norms in the Lok Sabha seats and their Assembly segments. Around Rs 46 crore cash has been seized during different searches in all the constituencies since March 1. Nomination filing for the first phase General Elections to four Lok Sabha constituencies - Koraput, Kalahandi, Nabarangpur and Berhampur - and their 28 Assembly segments is already over. ECI officials said a total of 75 nomination papers have been received from 39 candidates for the four Lok Sabha seats, while 483 nomination papers have been received from 266 candidates in 28 Assembly seats. The scrutiny of nominations were taken up on Friday, while the last date for withdrawal of nomination papers for the candidates is April 29.
My priority will be to raise issues of people in assembly: Odisha Congress leader Bhakta Charan Das
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