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Odisha man taken hostage in Sudan, returns to family
Adarsh Behera, who hails from Kotakana village in Jagatsinghpur district, went to the civil war-torn Sudan in 2022 and worked as a mechanic in a plastic factory
NEW DELHI: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) on Tuesday called for a national mission in India to ensure consistent mother-tongue or home language- based instruction in the country. There needs to be multilingual bridging across all schooling systems, it urged. Making public its 165-page report, `Bhasha Matters: The State of the Education Report for India 2025; Mother Tongue and Multilingual Education at its office in Delhi, it came out with ten recommendations to be incorporated in the countrys Education Policy. Tim Curtis, Director, UNESCO Regional Office for South Asia, who released it said theUNESCO Regional Office for South Asia has established a tradition of publishing an annual flagship report as our contribution to the education discourse in India. Elaborating on this years report he said, We turn to a theme central to equitable learning Mother Tongue and Multilingual Education. Over the next hour, you will hear the compelling evidence-based for establishing Mother Tongue and Multilingual Education as the foundation for educational inclusion, linguistic diversity preservation and enhanced learning outcomes through stories and testimonies, and learn about the frameworks and global commitments that guide UNESCOs work. UNESCO has encouraged mother tongue instruction in primary education since 1953 highlighting its advantages from the very beginning of the Organisations founding. In 2003, UNESCO released `Education in a Multilingual World, acknowledging the global reality of multilingual education and the challenges and opportunities it presents. The 2025 report provides a comprehensive framework for designing, implementing, and sustaining multilingual education systems. It emphasises learner-centered language pathways, inclusive pedagogy, community participation, and context-responsive planning all of which have informed the analysis and recommendations in this years report. As part of this research, our team travelled across India, including to Odisha, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh, and visited schools, institutions and civil society organisations, he said. This publication is the product of consultations with academicians, state governments, the national government, NGOs, teachers, community members, and most importantly students. Recommendations: *Adopt and operationalise clear state-level language-in-education policies grounded in Mother-Tongue Based-Multilingual Education (MTB-MLE). *Strengthen teacher recruitment, deployment and professional standards for multilingual competence. *Reform pre-service and in-service teacher education to embed multilingual pedagogy at all stages. *Institutionalise community participation and indigenous knowledge in school practice *Develop and distribute high-quality multilingual learning materials and assessments across grades. *Integrate a gender-responsive MTB-MLE framework across middle, secondary and alternative schooling. *Leverage digital public infrastructure for inclusive, multilingual teacher support and learning resources. *Invest in inclusive language technologies and bridge the digital divide *Ensure sustainable, equitable and inclusive financing for MTB-MLE and language-responsive technologies and *Establish a national mission for MTB-MLE and strengthen institutional coordination.
Former AIIMS HOD moves SC seeking cancer to be declared a notifiable disease
NEW DELHI: A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Supreme Court by former Head of the Department of Surgical Disciplines at AIIMS, New Delhi, Dr Anurag Srivastava, seeking directions to the Centre to declare cancer a notifiable disease to ensure uniform and mandatory reporting of cancer cases across India. In the petition, filed through advocate Gaurav Kumar Bansal, Dr Srivastava urged the Supreme Court to direct the Union Government and State Governments to establish a centralised, real-time digital cancer registry on the lines of the CoWIN portal. The proposed registry would integrate existing datasets, including the National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP), Hospital-Based Cancer Registries (HBCRs), Population-Based Cancer Registries (PBCRs), Ayushman BharatPMJAY, State health insurance schemes, mortality records and hospital information systems, with appropriate safeguards for data accuracy, privacy and accountability. The plea also sought directions to the Centre and States to formulate and implement nationwide cancer screening programmes at Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and Community Health Centres (CHCs), targeting high-risk and age-based population groups. Further, the petitioner asked the Court to direct the authorities to frame a clear policy on unverified, religious or alternative therapies for cancer treatment, including remedies such as gomutra, and to regulate misinformation to protect public health. The PIL also called for ensuring the availability of affordable, evidence-based cancer treatment including modern medicine as well as evidence-based AYUSH therapies at all tertiary and district-level hospitals. Dr Srivastava also sought directions for the establishment of a dedicated National Cancer Care Fund to support treatment costs, anti-cancer drugs, diagnostic equipment and palliative care, with the aim of reducing the financial burden on poor, underprivileged and vulnerable patients and their families. The petition further urged the Court to direct the Union and State Governments to strengthen death certification and institutionalise death audits for cancer patients to ensure accurate reporting, identify systemic gaps and improve the quality of care. It also sought a time-bound roadmap for expanding PBCRs to ensure adequate representation of all States and rural areas, with particular emphasis on underrepresented States such as Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Odisha. In his plea, Dr Srivastava stated that despite being one of the leading causes of death in India, cancer remains outside the ambit of mandatory notification. This, he argued, has resulted in fragmented data, weak surveillance and policy paralysis in addressing the growing cancer burden. He highlighted that health is primarily a State subject under Entry 6 of List II of the Seventh Schedule to the Constitution, and that both the Union and State Governments have the power to legislate and notify diseases within their respective domains. However, this concurrent jurisdiction has led to a legal lacuna, with some States having notified cancer as a disease while others have not. The absence of uniformity has led to disparities in reporting, monitoring and early intervention across States. This inconsistency has resulted in a critical policy failure, with patients in many States being diagnosed only at advanced stages, when curative treatment becomes difficult, expensive or impossible, the plea stated. Dr Srivastava further pointed out that the Indian Council of Medical Researchs NCRP currently covers only about 10 per cent of Indias population, with rural coverage as low as 1 per cent. Large States such as Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Odisha remain significantly underrepresented. He noted that both the NCRP Policy Brief, 2020, and the 139th Report of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare had recommended that cancer be declared a notifiable disease, but these recommendations have yet to be implemented.
Opposition pushback over nuclear, VB-G RAM G Bills; INDIA bloc meeting ahead of Parliament session
NEW DELHI: The Opposition INDIA bloc has mounted a strong pushback as the government moves to push through two controversial Bills in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, the SHANTI Bill, aimed at opening the nuclear sector to private players, and the VB-G RAM G Bill to replace the MGNREGA law governing the rural employment scheme. With both Bills listed for passage in the Lok Sabhas List of Business on Wednesday, the INDIA blocs floor leaders are set to meet ahead of the session at the office of the Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, to coordinate a united strategy. Opposition leaders have warned that the Bills could have far-reaching consequences, potentially undermining rural livelihoods and handing strategic sectors over to corporate interests. The Congress will also hold a meeting of its MPs in the morning and has issued a whip directing members to remain present in the House until the session concludes on December 19. Opposition parties have demanded that the new VB-G RAM G Bill, which seeks to replace the two-decade-old MGNREGA, be referred to a standing committee. However, the government has shown no inclination to relent. The Opposition has also sought parliamentary scrutiny of the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India Bill, 2025 (SHANTI), which proposes opening up the nuclear power sector to private players. NDA ally Telugu Desam Party (TDP) is also learnt to have urged the government to refer the VB-G RAM G Bill to a standing committee. In a post on X, Congress MP Manickam Tagore attacked the governments tearing hurry, alleging a deliberate attempt to bypass parliamentary scrutiny. Todays Lok Sabha List of Business exposes the governments real priorities. One Bill to open strategic nuclear energy to corporates like Adani. Another Bill to erase Mahatma Gandhi from the peoples employment guarantee. This is not coincidence. This is design, he wrote. Todays Lok Sabha List of Business exposes the Govts real priorities. One Bill to open strategic nuclear energy to corporates like Adani. Another Bill to erase Mahatma Gandhi from a peoples employment guarantee. This is not coincidence. This is design. Why this pic.twitter.com/Oh0tRhwn2w Manickam Tagore .B . (@manickamtagore) December 17, 2025 Tagore added that the INDIA bloc floor leaders would meet at Congress president Mallikarjun Kharges chamber at 10.15 am to coordinate a joint resistance. He accused the government of pushing legislation without standing committee scrutiny, stakeholder consultations, Business Advisory Committee discussions, or adequate time for debate. Parliament is not a notice board. It is the supreme forum of democracy. But ModiShah are running it like the Gujarat Assembly model, bulldoze first, silence later, he said. Calling the removal of Mahatma Gandhis name from the employment guarantee law ideological vandalism and the opening up of strategic sectors economic cronyism, Tagore said both moves would hurt the poor and weaken democratic institutions. The Lok Sabha witnessed noisy scenes on Tuesday after the government introduced the VB-G RAM G Bill, triggering strong protests from the Opposition. Several MPs accused the Centre of dismantling a rights-based welfare scheme and undermining Mahatma Gandhis legacy, demanding that the Bill be sent to a parliamentary panel. 'RAM G Bill will weaken MGNREGA,' says Priyanka, calls Modi govt obsessive over renaming Defending the legislation, Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said the government remained committed to Gandhian principles and had done more for rural development than previous regimes. The Modi government has increased workdays from 100 to 125 days, he said. Leading the Opposition attack, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra warned that the proposed law would dilute the legal guarantee of employment and place a heavier financial burden on states. She alleged that the Bill would give the Centre the power to pre-determine fund allocation, effectively ending the demand-driven nature of the scheme and violating the spirit of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment. Other Opposition parties, including the Trinamool Congress and the DMK, echoed the criticism, objecting to the removal of Gandhis name and the shift from a demand-driven to a supply-driven framework. After staging a walkout, Opposition leaders, including Priyanka Gandhi, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav and DMK MP T.R. Baalu, protested at Mahatma Gandhis statue in the Parliament complex, raising slogans such as the country will not tolerate this insult to Mahatma Gandhi.
Gang rape of minor girl in Odisha triggering political controversy
Criminals are becoming fearless while governments incompetence in preventing crime is instilling fear in the general public, said former CM Naveen Patnaik
Singareni To Ink Mega Power Deals In Odisha For 4,900 MW Capacity On December 18
The coal from Naini must be used captively, making this a win-win for Odisha and Singareni: N. Balaram
Singareni to sign MoU with Odisha on setting up 4,900 MW power plants tomorrow
34 Maoists carrying Rs 84 lakh reward surrender in Chhattisgarh under Poona Margham initiative
RAIPUR: A total of 34 Maoist cadres, carrying a cumulative reward of 84 lakh, surrendered in the insurgency-hit district of Bijapur, around 400 km south of Raipur, on Tuesday, marking another significant instance of cadres laying down arms under the states rehabilitation drive. Seven of those who surrendered are women. The cadres said they had decided to renounce the armed and violent ideology of the banned CPI (Maoist) and return to the mainstream under the Poona Margham: Rehabilitation to Rebirth initiative being implemented in the Bastar division, police said. The thirty-four Maoists who surrendered belonged to the South Sub-Zonal Bureau and included members from the Telangana State Committee, the Andhra Odisha Border Special Zonal Committee and the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee (DKSZC). As a result of the state government's comprehensive Naxal eradication policy and continuous efforts based on peace, dialogue, and development, the cadres in big numbers have decided to relinquish the violent path and return to the mainstream of society, the statement issued by the Bijapur police said. According to the police, the surrendered cadres included one Divisional Committee Member, four members of a PLGA Company, three Area Committee Members, eight Platoon and Area Committee party members, three Militia Platoon Commanders, five Militia Platoon members, one PLGA member and nine members holding positions such as CNM/Janatana Sarkar president or vice-president, and DAKMS and KAMS president or vice-president. All of them have decided to quit the banned outfit CPI (Maoist). From January 1, 2024 onwards, as many as 824 Maoists have joined the mainstream in Bijapur district, while 1,079 Maoists have been arrested and 220 Maoists have been killed in separate encounters, Bijapur district police chief Jitendra Kumar Yadav said. Official legal procedures are being carried out for the rehabilitation and reintegration of the surrendered cadres into society. The Poona Margham initiative has emerged as a significant step towards lasting peace and positive transformation in the Bastar region, the police said. Under the surrender and rehabilitation policy, each surrendered Maoist receives an initial financial incentive of 50,000. In addition, those willing to undergo skill training or set up a small business are eligible for further financial assistance. They are also provided free housing, healthcare, farmland and other amenities under the policy. Since the BJP came to power in Chhattisgarh in December 2023, over 2,300 Maoists have surrendered across the state, officials said.
Odisha unveils pharmaceutical and medical devices policy to bring Rs 25,000 crore investment by 2030
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi launched the new policy here at the Odisha Pharma Summit-2025 in the presence of Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain and senior government officers.
34 Naxalites Surrender in Bijapur
The cadres were active in Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee (DKSZC), Telangana State Committee and Andhra Odisha Border division of Maoists
Scenic Mahendragiri In Odisha Set To Emerge As Confluence Of Nature And Spirituality
Towering over southern Odisha, Mahendragirithe highest peak of the Eastern Ghats in the staterises to an elevation of 1,501 metres (4,925 feet), making it second only to Deomali (5,486 feet). Renowned for its rich biodiversity and deep mythological roots, the mountain is regarded as an important eco-heritage site
Gandhamardan hill: Odisha is leveraging the Gandhamardan hill's rich medicinal herb biodiversity to boost its economy and create jobs. The state plans extensive cultivation to become a leading producer of Ayurvedic and herbal medicines, aiming to blend traditional knowledge with modern innovation for a sustainable economic and ecological model.
Odisha government has announced its holiday list for 2026. This includes all public, regional, and national holidays. State employees can also choose one optional holiday.
Odisha: Minor Allegedly Gang-Raped; Two Arrested
Following the complaint, police acted promptly and apprehended two of the three accused on Monday
Congress sacks leader over comments on Kharge and Rahul Gandhi
Congress has expelled Odisha leader Mohammed Moquim. This action follows his letter to Sonia Gandhi. Moquim had called for a major party restructuring. He also stated party president Mallikarjun Kharge is too old. Rahul Gandhi was described as disconnected from colleagues and youth. Moquim suggested Priyanka Gandhi Vadra take a central leadership role. Other leaders were also proposed for promotion.
DC Edit| Fresh Start For BJP With A Young Working Chief
It may be remembered that several of the partys chief ministers, including Yogi Adityanath (Uttar Pradesh), Devendra Fadnavis (Maharashtra), Mohan Charan Majhi (Odisha), Mohan Yadav (Madhya Pradesh), Vishnu Deo Sai (Chhattisgarh) and Bhajan Lal Sharma (Rajasthan) were all under 60 when they were chosen for the post. The new young boss will be working with those young veterans
DMET Odisha has revised the NEET PG 2025 Round 2 counselling schedule, with choice filling and locking now open from December 18-20, 2025. All candidates on the state merit list are eligible, including those from Round 1 or who resigned. Seat allotment results are expected on December 22, with reporting from December 23-25 at SCB Medical College, Cuttack.
Exclusive | 'We will 'trap' Vaibhav Suryavanshi': Malaysia captain's warning
Young Vaibhav Suryavanshi's stellar 171 against UAE was followed by a quiet 5 against Pakistan. Malaysia captain Deeaz Patro, inspired by David Warner and with an Odisha connection, plans strategies to dismiss Suryavanshi. Aalif, a Virat Kohli admirer, also looks forward to the challenge.
The Chandipur Beach is located in the Balasore district of Odisha. It lies on the shore of the Bay of Bengal. Scroll down to read why it's called the 'vanishing sea'.
Congress Expels Odisha Leader Who Raised Questions Over Kharges Age In Letter To Sonia Gandhi
I respect Mallikarjun Kharge ji, but the thinking that is required today, especially when the Congress is playing the role of the opposition, is different, said Odisha's Moquim
FIVB To Host Beach Pro Tour in Odisha For Three Years From 2026
Azevedo said Odishas sporting ecosystem, coupled with the extensive infrastructure at KIIT and KISS, made the state an ideal destination for hosting global volleyball events. This initiative is designed to empower women and strengthen volleyball at the grassroots level
Congress expels Odisha ex-MLA Mohammed Moquim for anti-party acitivities
Mr. Moquim has recently written a letter to former Congress President Sonia Gandhi pointing out critical phase the party was passing through and questioned ability of the current leadership in taking party forward
Congress expelled former MLA Mohammed Moquim for anti-party activities after he urged Sonia Gandhi to replace party president Mallikarjun Kharge, citing age and a need for young leaders. Moquim's letter highlighted recent electoral defeats and questioned leadership choices, drawing criticism from party officials who suggested he join the BJP.
Survey finds LGBTQIA+ youth face highest discrimination at home and school
A recent survey of over 900 LGBTQ+ individuals by a Kolkata-based organisation, Bridge, which works for the rights of the community across Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Odisha, Jharkhand and West Bengal, reported that most bullying happens between the ages of 12 and 15 years
Odisha double: Teen shuttle star Unnatis Olympics launchpad
Technology should amplify human judgment, not replace it: CJI Kant
Cuttack (Odisha): Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Sunday said technology should amplify human judgment and not replace it. Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said technology should amplify human judgment and not replace it. Addressing a symposium today, Justice Kant said technology was very useful during the COVID pandemic; however, one cannot afford []
News headlines for December 15: Delhi schools are now operating in a hybrid mode due to pollution. Prime Minister Modi embarks on a visit to Jordan. New tourism facilities have opened in Kashmir. The BJP has a new national working president. A mass shooting occurred in Sydney. India leads South Africa in the T20 series. The Odisha Masters badminton tournament has concluded.
Technology Should Amplify Human Judgment, Not Replace It: CJI Surya Kant
Cuttack (Odisha), Dec 14: Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Sunday said technology should amplify human judgment and not replace it. He was addressing a symposium on Ensuring justice for the common man: strategies for reducing litigation costs and delays here. Pendency of cases in courts clogs every level of the judicial structure, from the trial court to the constitutional court. And when a blockage occurs at the top, the pressure only intensifies below, he said. He also stressed [] The post Technology Should Amplify Human Judgment, Not Replace It: CJI Surya Kant appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Odisha Minister Felicitates Winners of Tata Steel Young Astronomer Talent Search
Congratulating the winners, Patra said the initiative was helping inspire young minds to explore space science and innovation
Queer children face maximum discrimination, bullying at homes, schools: Survey
A recent survey of over 900 LGBTQ+ individuals by a Kolkata-based organisation, 'Bridge', which works for the rights of the community across Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Odisha, Jharkhand and West Bengal, reported that most bullying happens between the ages of 12 and 15 years
Malkangiri Collector Somesh Kumar Upadhyay reported that peace has been maintained following recent violence centered around a murder. The administration has assessed damages at Rs 3.34 crore and submitted the report to the government. As a precaution, the internet ban has been extended until Monday noon.
BJD alleges Odisha CM availing luxury bungalow in Delhi
It also takes strong exceptions to deployment of one platoon of police at Odisha CMs Delhi bungalow, instead of trusting the Delhi police to do the job
BADMINTON: India Assures Gold at Odisha Masters 2025 in Womens Singles
In Badminton, India assured a gold medal at the Odisha Masters 2025 after Top seed Unnati Hooda and Isharani Baruah stormed into the womens singles final, registering semifinal victories today. The 18-year-old registered a three-game victory 18-21, 21-16, 21-16 over former junior world No. 1 Tasnim Mir in the semifinals. In the other semifinal, Isharani []
Former CM Naveen Patnaik announces to forgo his hiked salary
Odisha Legislative Assembly recently passed bill by increasing salaries of MLAs and ministers by three folds
Odisha Student, 14, Brings Revolver To Classroom, Threatens Headmaster: Cops
The Odisha Police on Saturday took a 14-year-old boy into custody in Kendrapara, after he threatened his school headmaster inside the classroom by allegedly brandishing a country-made revolver.
Naveen Patnaik Offers To Forgo Salary Hike Amid Public Outrage Over Odisha MLAs Pay Raise
In a letter to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Patnaik urged the BJP-led government to utilise the additional amount for the welfare of poor and marginalised people
Process to Recover Skeletal Remains of Iconic Elephant Ramu Begins in Odisha
Ramus skeleton, which was buried following his death earlier this year, is being carefully exhumed from within the Bharatpur forest under the ChandakaDampara Wildlife Sanctuary
Discovering Heritage: A visual journey through Odisha crafts museum Kalabhoomi
Sujoy Dhar Nestled in the heart of Bhubaneswars creative corridor, the Odisha Crafts Museum Kalabhoomi captures the essence of the states rich heritage. The museum celebrates the craftsmanship of Odishas artisans by putting on display their breathtaking masterpieces. Built with the authenticity of local materials the exterior uses laterite stone reminiscent of some of Odishas oldest monuments Kalabhoomi immerses visitors in a cultural experience from the moment they arrive. Kalabhoomi is divided into two distinct zones: a display [] The post Discovering Heritage: A visual journey through Odisha crafts museum Kalabhoomi appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Niraba brings sabai grass weaving to contemporary furniture design
Boito and This and That fuse Odishas sabai weaving and dhokra with wood and lighting to craft a new design language
Cruel Arrow Attack on Bull Sparks Outrage in Odisha Village
Villagers, activists demand stricter action against rising cases of animal cruelty
Injured Tusker From Jharkhand Triggers Panic In Odisha
Nilgiri Ranger officials confirmed that the animal was mobile and capable of rejoining its herd once stabilised. A veterinary team is expected to assess the injury and initiate treatment.
Report on Malkangiri Violence Submitted to Odisha Chief Minister
Deputy Chief Minister Kank Vardhan Singh Deo and minister Gokulananda Mallik submitted the report to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi after their visit to the affected areas earlier this week.
Odisha Congress leader Mohammed Moquim slams Rahul Gandhis inaccessibility
The former Congress MLA from Barabati-Cuttak questioned the leadership style of president Mallikarjun Kharge
'Age Not On Kharges Side': Odisha Congress Leader Writes To Sonia Gandhi In Fresh Leadership Row
The strongly worded letter called for an open-heart surgery to revive the Congress party in Odisha and at the national level.
After deadly Goa fire that killed 25, blaze reported at bar in Odishas Bhubaneswar
Following a deadly Goa nightclub fire, another blaze erupted at a Bhubaneswar bar, raising concerns about entertainment venue safety. Fire services are actively working to control the flames and prevent them from spreading to adjacent structures. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported in this incident.
Massive Fire At Bar In Bhubaneswar. Thick Black Smoke Seen Atop Building
A massive fire erupted at a bar in Bhubaneswar this morning. Thick plumes of smoke were seen on the top floor of the building that houses the bar, in horrifying visuals from the Satya Vihar area in Odisha's capital this morning.
Crime against women: Odisha police launch digital platform
Keonjhar police have come up with digital interface to enable women to file complaints from their home
Odisha Man With Severe Spine, Hip Fusion Now Able to Stand and Walk After Complex AIIMS Surgeries
Once unable to stand, Odisha man regains mobility after complex spine and hip procedures
NIRL inks MoU with Odisha Renewable Energy Development Agency
Odisha Govt Issues Stern Warning to Land Encroachers: Vacate or Pay Eviction Costs
Reviewing departmental operations, the minister said the state would no longer tolerate unauthorised occupation of public land.
School Teacher Thrashed by Villagers for Allegedly Misbehaving with Girl Students in Odishas Ganjam
Police said an investigation is underway and statements of students, staff and parents were recorded to ascertain the sequence of events
Two Odisha Ministers visit Malkangiri; administration extends internet ban by another 12 hours
Deputy CM Singh Deo and MSME Minister Gokulananda Mallick chaired a meeting with senior officials on the prevailing situation at MV-26 village
NIA files charge sheet against 11 Maoists for looting explosives in Odishas Sundergarh
Bhubaneswar: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a charge sheet against 11 accused persons in a case relating to the loot of around 4,000 kg of explosives by armed cadres of the CPI (Maoist) during transportation to a stone quarry in Odishas Sundergarh district, an official said. According to a statement released by the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Shift Parliament sessions out of polluted Delhi, BJD MP urges government
NEW DELHI: BJD Rajya Sabha member Manas Ranjan Mangaraj on Thursday appealed to the government to relocate Parliament's Winter and Budget sessions out of Delhi until air quality improves, calling the capital's annual pollution crisis a man-made disaster. Raising the issue during Zero Hour, Mangaraj, who hails from Odisha, drew parallels between his state's efficient response to natural calamities and the need for similar urgency in addressing Delhi's air pollution. Coming from Odisha, a state that fights cyclones, floods and natural calamities with unmatched discipline, I know what a crisis looks like. But what troubles me is Delhi, he said. The MP highlighted the daily exposure to toxic air faced by members, parliamentary officers, drivers, sanitation workers, and security personnel who keep the House functioning. We cannot ignore their suffering. We cannot pretend this is normal, he said, adding that holding crucial parliamentary sessions during peak pollution months puts lives at risk unnecessarily. Mangaraj suggested several cities with cleaner air and adequate infrastructure as potential alternatives, including Bhubaneswar, Hyderabad, Gandhinagar, Bengaluru, Goa, and Dehradun. If Odisha can evacuate lakhs of people within hours during a cyclone and save lives with precision, then surely the government of India can relocate two sessions of Parliament to protect the health of its own members and staff, he argued. Emphasising that his proposal was not politically motivated, Mangaraj said, This is not about politics. This is about life and dignity. Parliament must show leadership. Parliament must show that the right to live comes before condemnation. He urged the government to initiate structured consultations without delay to explore the feasibility of rotating Parliament sessions to cities with better air quality during the winter months. Delhi's air quality typically deteriorates sharply between October and January due to a combination of factors, including stubble burning, vehicular emissions, construction dust, and weather conditions that trap pollutants. The winter session, which includes crucial legislative business and the budget session, coincides with the annual peak pollution period.
Odishas 4,000-kg explosives loot case: NIA chargesheets 11 for alleged Maoist conspiracy
The National Investigation Agency claimed that the accused were found to have been actively involved in the criminal conspiracy, planning and execution of the loot of around 200 explosive packets, each containing 20 kg of explosives
4,000-kg explosives theft in Odisha: NIA chargesheets 11 for alleged Maoist conspiracy
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has charged 11 individuals for the theft of approximately 4,000 kg of explosives in Odisha's Rourkela district. Armed Maoists intercepted the vehicle carrying the explosives, abducted the driver, and seized the consignment. The NIA revealed the loot was intended for terror acts against government forces, part of a CPI (Maoist) conspiracy to destabilize the nation.
Odisha's 4,000-kg Explosives Loot Case: NIA Chargesheets 11 for Alleged Maoist Conspiracy
The explosives were being transported from the Itma Explosive Station to the Banko stone quarry on May 27, when a group of 10-?15 armed Maoists intercepted the vehicle, abducted the driver and seized the consignment
Odisha forms high-level committee to address Mahanadi River water dispute
The committee, under chairmanship of State Deputy CM, will examine all relevant aspects related to Mahanadi water and provide necessary policy guidance to the technical and administrative efforts currently underway in Odisha
Coal Remains India's Energy Backbone, House Committee Report Reaffirms 1.5 Bn Tonne Target For 2030
Odisha is expected to produce 494 MT by 2030, followed by Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra by 2030
OTET admit card 2025 released at bseodisha.ac.in: Direct link to download hall tickets here
The Board of Secondary Education, Odisha has released the OTET Admit Card 2025, enabling applicants to access their hall tickets using their registration and mobile numbers. Candidates must verify all details and carry a printed copy to the exam centre. With the OTET determining eligibility for primary and upper-primary teaching posts, the admit card release marks a crucial stage in the recruitment cycle.
Hooda, Tanvi, Mannepalli, Kiran through to pre-quarters
ODISHA MASTERS CUTTACK, Dec 10: Top seeds Unnati Hooda and Tharun Mannepalli as well as other leading Indian shuttlers progressed comfortably to the pre-quarterfinals across singles categories of the Odisha Masters Super 100, here on Wednesday. In womens singles, Unnati began her campaign in commanding fashion, defeating UAEs P. Bharath 21-12, 21-18. Sixth seed Anmol []
Odisha Assembly clears Bill to implement threefold hike in salary, pension for MLAs
Under the revised pay structure, a legislator will draw 3.45 lakh per month against 1.10 lakh in 2007
Odisha has significantly increased MLA salaries, tripling their monthly earnings to Rs 3.45 lakh, making it one of India's highest. This revision, effective from June 2024, also boosts pay for CM, ministers, and former MLAs, with pensions and allowances seeing substantial hikes. The move received unanimous support, citing increased responsibilities and living costs.
The Malkangiri administration in Odisha saw violent clashes, internet shutdown and prohibitory orders being imposed after a headless body of an Adivasi woman led to violence. Clashes between tribal communities and Bengali settlers led to the destruction of 160 houses. The confrontation happened after a gruesome killing of a 51-year-old tribal woman, whose headless body was recovered from a riverbank last week.
Centre approves road projects worth 44,771 crore for Odisha
The approved projects included widening of the National Highway between Bhubaneswar and Puri, and the 140-km-long Tangi-Puintola-Ichchapuram Road
2 Professors In Andhra Allegedly Sexually Assault Odisha Student, Record Videos
Two assistant professors at a university in Andhra Pradesh's Tirupati have been arrested after a student accused them of sexual assault, harassment, and blackmail.
Over 30% students of secondary level in Odisha not able to make transition to higher level: CAG
During 2018-23, 1.50 lakh out of 5.47 lakh children enrolled in classes I to XI, discontinued education before reaching the immediate higher class, the agency finds
Odisha Assembly Approves Threefold Hike in MLA Salaries
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Dr. Mukesh Mahaling informed the House that the revised salary would apply retrospectively from June 2024, when the 17th Assembly was constituted
65 tmcft water lost to silt in dams
BENGALURU: Close to 65 tmcft of storage capacity in major reservoirs has been lost to siltation. This means that every year, 65 tmcft of water that could have been stored, is wasted across reservoirs in the Cauvery and Krishna basins. This quantity of water is nearly three times Bengalurus annual water requirement of over 22tmcft. Karnataka has 14 major reservoirs, including KR Sagar, Malaprabha, Bhadra, Harangi, Kabini, Almatti, Tungabhadra, Hemavathy and others. In an unstarred question by Congress MLA Dr Ajay Dharam Singh, Deputy CM and Water Resources Minister DK Shivakumar replied that they dont have any programme to remove silt. He said there are no specific guidelines to remove silt from reservoirs, and neither is there a coordination programme between the Central and State governments. Tungabhadra has 31.6 tmcft of silt, Narayanapura has 10.55 tmcft, Almatti 7.5 tmcft and Ghataprabha has 4.9 tmcft. Reservoirs that come under Krishna Bhagya Jal Nigam, Visvesvaraya Jal Nigam and others are surveyed by Karnataka Engineering Research Centre. The Central Water Commission had recommended a survey of silt in reservoirs once in five years. In many state reservoirs, survey was done from 2008 to 2019. Over time, as silt starts accumulating, the live storage capacity comes down and water overflows, leading to water loss. Silt accumulation is not uniform, and removing it is not economically viable. Former irrigation secretary and water expert Captain Raja Rao told TNIE that silt accumulation is a natural process which cannot be avoided. Silt accumulation in reservoirs of the Cauvery basin is less compared to Krishna basin reservoirs, because Cauvery reservoirs have forests or many trees nearby. This prevents silt entering dams, whereas near Krishna basin reservoirs, there are few trees. Also, mining is a major issue here, he explained. There is a need to grow more trees, which can prevent silt to a large extent, he added. A senior water resource department official said removing silt is a tedious process, as water has to be pumped out before silt can be removed. To dump the silt, they need acres of land, which is not available in and around dams. For this, they have to place pipes for longer distances, water has to be pumped out through these pipes. It is expensive. The Odisha government tried it in Hirakud reservoir, but failed, he said.
Engineers, Postgraduates Join Odisha Home Guard Amid Job Crunch
A total of 118 candidates participated in the districts first-ever Home Guard passing-out parade after completing 82 days of intensive training
Charudutta Panigrahi | Will Odisha Pharma Summit 2025 Be a Defining Moment for Eastern India?
With big job targets and investment plans, Odisha seeks to join Indias pharma growth story
Odisha: More C-sections In Private Hospitals
Odisha urges expectant mothers to choose government facilities for safer normal deliveries
Odisha Assembly wraps up Winter Session Early
House conducts business on just 11 of 29 scheduled days
A pause in Odisha: The sanctuary that feels like a secret
Two hours from Jharsuguda lies Debrigarh sanctuary run by tribal communities we visit to discover boat safaris to Bat Island, stargazer suites, wildlife drives with chousingha, and crisp fried fish at sunset.
Odisha authorities suspended internet and social media in Malkangiri district. This action followed violent clashes between two villages after a headless body was found. Anti-social elements spread provocative messages online, escalating the situation. The government imposed a 24-hour shutdown to restore peace and order. Essential communication lines for administrative and police offices remain active.
Weather update today: Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Punjab, Chandigarh and Delhi might experience cold wave conditions from December 9, the IMD said in its latest bulletin. The weather agency has also warned of cold wave conditions in several districts of Telangana. Dense fog is likely to prevail in Assam, Manipur and Odisha.
Headless body of woman sparks unrest between Odisha villages; Internet suspended
Prohibitory orders imposed in two villages
Hyd Students Turn Daily Challenges Into AI solutions
Sixty-four teams from Telangana, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Odisha brought ideas shaped by everyday concerns they see at home and in school: Reports
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy | Rahanesblitzkrieg powers Mumbai to a crushing win
Defending champion tops Group-A standings, sails into the Super League; skipperShardulsets the tone with two maiden overs as Odisha batters falter; Assam edges out Kerala
Rajasthan dominates 2nd Federation Cup Lacrosse Cship
Excelsior Sports Correspondent KATRA, Dec 7: The 2nd Federation Cup Lacrosse Championship 2025 concluded at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sports Complex, Katra, after three days of spirited competition and exemplary sportsmanship. The championship, organised by J&K Lacrosse Association under the aegis of the Lacrosse Association of India, witnessed participation from 15 States including Gujarat, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, Telangana, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab, Delhi, and J&K. Around 280 male and female players showcased talent, [] The post Rajasthan dominates 2nd Federation Cup Lacrosse Cship appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
NSU Sexual Abuse Case: MPs to Move Adjournment Motions in Parliament
The case involves a 22-year-old B.Ed student from Odisha who has accused assistant professor in the education department, Laxman Kumar, of sexually exploiting her.
Severe cold grips north India; IMD warns of cold wave, fog across multiple states
NEW DELHI: Cold conditions prevailed across north India on Sunday, with the Amarnath yatra base camp being the coldest recorded place in Jammu and Kashmir at minus 4.3 degrees Celsius and parts of Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan reporting minimum temperatures between three and seven degrees Celsius. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said cold wave conditions were very likely to prevail in isolated pockets over Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha in Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha on Monday and Tuesday. In Delhi, the minimum temperature was recorded at eight degrees, up from 6.8 degrees a day ago and yet 1.6 notches below normal. The maximum temperature was 24.7 degrees Celsius, 0.1 notch below normal, while the relative humidity was 92 per cent in the morning. For Monday, the weather department forecast a minimum of 10 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 25 degrees Celsius, with mist expected. Pollution levels in Delhi remained in the very poor category on Sunday, prolonging the spell of toxic air that has hung over its residents for several weeks now. The city logged a 24-hour average AQI of 308. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, an AQI between 0 and 50 is classified good, 51 and 100 satisfactory, 101 and 200 moderate, 201 and 300 poor, 301 and 400 very poor and 401 and 500 severe. Further in the north, the night temperatures in Kashmir rose by several degrees but stayed below the freezing point, officials said. The Pahalgam resort in south Kashmir, which serves as the base camp for the annual Amarnath yatra, was the coldest recorded place in Jammu and Kashmir as the minimum settled at a low of minus 4.3 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature in Srinagar -- the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir -- settled at minus 0.9 degrees Celsius, a rise of 3.2 degrees compared to the previous night. The gateway town to the valley, Qazigund, recorded a low of minus one degree Celsius, while the minimum settled at minus 0.8 degree Celsius in north Kashmir's Kupwara, and 1.1 degrees Celsius in south Kashmir's Kokernag, according to officials. The meteorological department said the weather would remain generally cloudy but dry on Sunday, and a brief spell of light snowfall at isolated places in the higher reaches of north and central Kashmir is likely on December 8. In Himachal Pradesh, The IMD predicted dense fog in parts of the state until Wednesday. A yellow alert for dense fog was also issued in parts of the reservoir area of the Bhakra dam in Bilaspur district and over some parts of the Balh valley in Mandi district during early morning till Monday. In Punjab, Faridkot remained the coldest place, with the minimum temperature settling at 4.4 degrees Celsius, while in Haryana, Narnaul saw the lowest temperature at 4.6 degrees Celsius, according to the local meteorological department. Chandigarh, the common capital of the two states, recorded a minimum temperature of 8.2 degrees Celsius. In Punjab, Bathinda and Gurdaspur recorded a minimum temperature of 4.6 degrees Celsius, while Ferozepur recorded 6 degrees, Amritsar 6.1 degrees, Ludhiana 6.8 degrees, and Patiala 8.9 degrees. In Haryana, Bhiwani recorded a low of six degrees, Hisar 6.2 degrees, Sirsa 6.6 degrees, Karnal seven degrees, Rohtak 7.8 degrees, and Ambala 9.8 degrees. Rajasthan, similarly, reeled under intense cold, the Meteorological Centre here said. Fatehpur in the Sikar district continued to record the lowest minimum temperature, albeit at 3.5 degrees Celsius, slightly up from 2.3 degrees a day ago. According to the weather department, Lunkaransar (Bikaner) recorded a low of 5 degrees Celsius, followed by Dausa at 6 degrees, Churu at 6.3 degrees, Vanasthali (Tonk) at 6.4 degrees and Jhunjhunu at 7.2 degrees Celsius on Sunday morning. The department said a fresh but weak western disturbance is likely to cause partly cloudy skies in some parts of the state over the next few days. Under its influence, the minimum temperature is expected to rise by two to three degrees Celsius, providing relief from the cold wave, it said. Meanwhile, in Jharkhand, eight districts recorded minimum temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius, the IMD said, noting a cold wave in parts of the state. Gumla recorded the lowest temperature in the state at 3.5 degrees Celsius up from three degrees Celsius while Khunti logged five degrees Celsius, the IMD weather bulletin stated. The minimum temperature in Jharkhand's capital, Ranchi, was 7.5 degrees Celsius, while Daltonganj recorded 6.5 degrees and Jamshedpur recorded 9.6 degrees Celsius. Deputy Director of the Ranchi Meteorological Centre, Abhishek Anand, said, North-westerly winds prevailing in the lower tropospheric levels over Jharkhand have caused the drop in mercury. Dry weather conditions are likely to prevail across the state over the next five days.The minimum temperature may rise by 2-3 degrees Celsius during the next 72 hours, he added. In West Bengal, the mercury dipped below the 10-degree mark for the first time this winter in the state's plains with Sriniketan in Birbhum districts recording a minimum temperature of 9.8 degrees Celsius on Sunday, the IMD said. Its forecast for West Bengal suggested dry weather across all districts of West Bengal for the next week, with shallow to moderate fog likely in the northern districts. Darjeeling was the coldest in the hills at 6.2 degrees Celsius, while the other Himalayan tourist town of Kalimpong was warmer at 10.5 degrees Celsius. The other places which recorded low night temperatures are Alipurduar (11 degrees), Kalyani (11.4 degrees), Purulia (11.4 degrees) and Panagarh (11.9 degrees). Kolkata recorded a minimum temperature of 15.2 degrees Celsius, the IMD said, forecasting mist in the morning on Monday. IMD further predicted dense fog conditions in isolated pockets of Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura between December 8 and 12. It was also very likely in parts of west Madhya Pradesh on Monday and in Odisha until Tuesday. In west India, a gradual fall by two to three degrees over the next three-four days is expected, and no significant change is anticipated thereafter, the IMD said.
Odisha: Krushna Patra Launches Kharif Paddy Procurement, Opens Mandis In Nuapada
Shares meal with farmers; assures MSP payment within 48 hours
Punjab records maximum food stock damage in past five years in India
CHANDIGARH: Punjab, considered the food bowl of India, recorded food stock damage of 8,226.04 metric tonne (MT) of Food Corporation of India (FCI) in the last five years. Punjab topped the list, followed by Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Odisha. These figures were placed on record in the Lok Sabha by the Union Minister for state of consumer affairs, food and public distribution Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya in reply to an unstated question asked by Delkar Kalaben Mohanbhai, Member of Parliament from Dadra and Nagar Haveli. As per the figures placed in the parliament showed that the cumulative loss over five years in Punjab stood at 8,226.04 MT of this the lowest was in 2020-21 at 25 MT, then 100 MT in 2021-22, then 264 in 2022-23, then 7,746 MT in 2023-24 and 91.04 in 2024-25. The second highest was in Tamil Nadu with 3,001.39 MT damaged in 2024-25, as only 7 MY in 2023-24 bringing its total to 3,008.39 MT. Then followed by Haryana at 2,511-MT loss in 2023-24, Uttar Pradesh the highest 2,254.32 MT in 2024-25, before that 2 MT in 2023-24, 47 MT in 2022-23, 78 MT in 2021-22 and 69 MT in 2020-21 taking its overall figure to 2,450.32 MT. Meanwhile, Maharashtra recorded an accumulated 2,856.68 MT of damaged stock over five years, including highest 1,985.68 MT in 2024-25 and Odisha reported 1,157 MT, mostly from 1,145 MT in 2020-21. But Punjab recorded the sharpest single-year damage, several other states reported sizeable losses. Also year-wise and commodity-wise assessments of damaged wheat and rice along with valuation were given. The highest recorded value of damaged food grains in the period was for rice in 2024-25, amounting to Rs 13.06 crore, linked to 0.072 lakh tonnes of damaged stock against an off take of 259.55 lakh tonne, translating to a 0.028% loss. For 2023-24, rice damage stood at 0.012 lakh tonnes, valued at Rs 2.06 crore. Wheat losses were recorded as 0.01 lakh tonnes in 2020-21, 0.004 lakh tonnes in 2022-23, and 0.0067 lakh tonnes in 2024-25, with corresponding values of Rs 0.64 crore, Rs 0.46 crore, and Rs 0.814 crore. The reply also stated that no central pool foodgrains got damaged due to insufficient FCI godowns. The overall storage capacity of Punjab is 174 lakh MT, comprising 124 lakh MT under the Food Corporation of India and another 49 LMT with state agencies.
Delhi fourth most polluted city in India; all top 10 cities from Haryana, UP: Study
CHANDIGARH: Delhi ranked fourth among the most polluted cities in the country in November, as per a report released by Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA). Ghaziabad topped the list, followed by Noida, Bahadurgarh, Delhi, Hapur, Greater Noida, Baghpat, Sonipat, Meerut and Rohtak. Despite a significant reduction in stubble-burning, 20 out of 29 cities in National Capital Region (NCR) recorded higher pollution levels than the previous year. Punjab and Haryana had been blamed in the past for being the primary cause of air pollution in the NCR; the two states have registered an 80 to 90 per cent drop in farm fire cases over the last four years. The Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA)s November 2025 Monthly Air Quality Snapshot, draws data from real-time continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations (CAAQMS) PM2.5. The report indicates a substantial deterioration in air quality across the country. Ghaziabad emerged as the most polluted city in the country in November this year with a monthly average PM2.5 concentration of 224 g/m, violating the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) on every day of the month, the report stated. It further said the city experienced 19 Very Poor days, 10 Severe days, and one Poor day. The report further reads, Uttar Pradesh accounted for six of the top ten cities, followed by Haryana with three, along with Delhi. All cities in the top 10 list recorded higher PM2.5 levels than the previous year, except for Delhi. Delhi ranked as the fourth most polluted city, recording a monthly average PM2.5 concentration of 215 g/m in November, about twice its October level of 107 g/m. The city experienced 23 Very Poor days, six Severe days, and one Poor day throughout November, the report stated. Despite widespread pollution, the contribution of stubble burning was an average of 7 per cent in November, down from 20 per cent last year. Peak contributions of stubble burning reached 22 per cent, significantly lower than 38 per cent recorded in the previous year. Except for Bahadurgarh, none of the top ten cities recorded even a single day within the safe daily NAAQS limit. Several other cities, including Charkhi Dadri, Bulandshahr, Jind, Muzaffarnagar, Gurgaon, Khurja, Bhiwani, Karnal, Yamunanagar and Faridabad, also recorded PM2.5 levels above NAAQS every day of the month. Sonipat recorded very poor' air quality with PM 2.5 at 121-250 g/m on 29 of the 30 days, while Bahadurgarh remained the second most polluted with a PM 2.5 average of 215 g/m, it added. While seven cities of Punjab exceeded the standard as Mandi Gobindgarh was the most polluted in Punjab with PM 2.5 at 93 g/m. Despite a significant reduction in stubble-burning influence, 20 out of 29 NCR cities recorded higher pollution levels than the previous year, and many still did not register a single day within NAAQS limits. This clearly indicates that the dominant drivers are year-round sources such as transport, industry, power plants, and other combustion sources. Without sector-specific emission cuts, cities will continue to breach standards, said Manoj Kumar, analyst at CREA. At the state level, Rajasthan had the largest number of polluted cities, with 23 of 34 exceeding the NAAQS in November. Haryana had 22 of 25 such cities, while Uttar Pradesh had 14 of 20 above the standard. Pollution levels were also high across other states, with 9 of 12 cities in Madhya Pradesh, 9 of 14 in Odisha, and 7 of 8 in Punjab recording concentrations above NAAQS.
Odisha board HSE 10th time table 2026 released: Exams from February 19, check BSE details here
Odisha board HSE 10th time table 2026: The Board of Secondary Education (BSE) Odisha has released the HSE 10th time table for 2026. Exams will be held from February 19 to March 2, 10 am to 12:30 pm in a single shift. Students can download the official timetable from bseodisha.ac.in and must carry admit cards to exam centres. Practical exams will be conducted before theory papers. The schedule includes subjects, dates, timings, and instructions to ensure smooth conduct of Odisha Board HSE 10th exams.
Odisha College Student Attempts Self-Immolation After Harassment; Fifth Such Case In 6 Months
Police have arrested a 25-year-old man for allegedly harassing the college student. They said preliminary investigation indicates the man had been troubling her.
Nalco plans to start Pottangi bauxite mines by mid-2026
NEW DELHI, Dec 7: State-owned National Aluminium Company Ltd (Nalco) is aiming to start its Pottangi bauxite mines in Odisha by June next year as the company plans to ramp up its mining capacity supporting its goal of expanding its integrated aluminium business. Dilip Buildcon Ltd had emerged as L-1 bidder for the development and operation of Pottangi bauxite mines. our target is June next year we will be starting the mines, NALCO CMD Brijendra Pratap Singh said. The [] The post Nalco plans to start Pottangi bauxite mines by mid-2026 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
ODISHA: Two factory workers and three fire brigade personnel were hospitalized following a chlorine gas leakage at a chemical factory in Jaora Industrial Area of western Madhya Pradeshs Ratlam district on Saturday evening. Chaos prevailed in and around a chemical factory in the industrial area, following the leakage of gas from the chlorine tank in the unit. The unit manufactured Ferric Sulphate for Pharma companies. The leakage was reported at around 6 pm from the tank having a capacity of 40 kg. The workers present at the unit first attempted to plug the leakage, but failed. Following it, fire tenders and other rescue teams were rushed to the concerned factory, official sources in Ratlam told TNIE . When the fire brigade personnel rushed to the factory, two workers at an adjoining factory had already developed health problems due to the leaked gas. Three fire brigade personnel also developed health problems and had to be rushed to the government medical college hospital in Ratlam city, where the condition of all five persons is stated out of danger. Two workers who were first admitted at the hospital have already been discharged, while the three fire brigade personnel are stated out of danger, Ratlam district police superintendent Amit Kumar said. Meanwhile, teams from chemical units of Nagda Industrial Area in neighbouring Ujjain district and Ipca Laboratories Pharma company in Ratlam district were called to stop the leakage, which was finally controlled after three hours at around 9.15 pm. According to official sources, the chemical factory where the chlorine gas leak happened in the evening, was not functioning since the last few days and the staff present there, failed to control and plug the leak from the tank. Investigations have started and the concerned chemical units owners and management will be booked for negligence, a senior Ratlam district police officer said. As a precautionary measure, the operations in around ten factories in the vicinity of the chemical unit have been halted till further orders.
Woman Student Attempts Setting Her Self Ablaze In Odisha, 5th Case In 6 Months
An undergraduate female student suffered about 90 per cent burn injuries after allegedly attemptingself-immolation in Odishas Sundergarh district, police said on Saturday.
