Air pollution levels across north India are significantly higher than national average: Report
CHANDIGARH: The air pollution levels across North India are significantly higher than the national average as per the latest report released by Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), an independent research organisation. The report stated that Delhi, along with Punjab, Assam and Tripura, was identified as a year-round pollution hotspot failing to meet PM 2.5 standard even during the monsoons. On the other hand, the southern states recorded the lowest values. The report titled, Beyond City Limits: A Satellite-Based PM-2.5 Assessment Across Indias Airsheds, States and Districts, stated that all the 23 districts of Punjab, 22 of Haryana and 12 of Himachal Pradesh exceeded the annual National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) of 40 ug/m3 for PM 2.5 concentration last year. During summer, winter and post-monsoon periods, PM 2.5 concentrations exceeded the NAAQS limits in these states. During the monsoon, 15 out of 23 districts in Punjab, 5 out of 22 in Haryana and 2 out of 12 districts in Himachal Pradesh exceeded the air quality limit. It read, Delhi recorded the highest pollution levels with an annual mean PM 2.5 concentration of 101 g/m, 2.5 times the Indian standard and 20 times the World Health Organisation (WHO). The pollution crisis extends across northern India, with the average PM 2.5 concentrations in all states in these regions, including Delhi, Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir, exceeding the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS). This concentration of pollution aligns with their location in the Indo-Gangetic Plain. The eastern and northeastern states showed similarly concerning levels, with PM 2.5 average concentrations in Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Tripura, and Arunachal Pradesh all above the NAAQS. Among western states, the mean concentrations in Rajasthan and Gujarat exceeded the annual national standard, it added. While the southern states presented the lowest PM 2.5 values, Puducherry recorded the lowest concentration at 25 g/m, followed by Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Sikkim, Telangana, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh. The report stated that Delhi consistently ranks as the most polluted city across all seasons, highlighting the capital's year-round air quality crisis. While Chandigarh appears in the top five during three seasons (winter, summer, and post-monsoon), West Bengal also ranks among the worst across the winter and post-monsoon seasons. Punjab and Haryana emerged as major air-pollution concerns, with Punjab during the monsoon and post-monsoon periods and Haryana during the summer and post-monsoon periods. The northeastern states present an unexpected pollution hotspot, with Assam and Tripura featuring in the top five in three seasons (winter, summer, and monsoon). Overall, 60 per cent of districts (447 out of 749) exceed the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for annual PM 2.5. None of the districts met the World Health Organisation (WHO) guideline of less than 5 g/m. The most polluted districts are heavily concentrated in a few states, highlighting regional clustering of severe air quality issues. Delhi (11 districts) and Assam (11 districts) alone account for nearly half of the top 50, followed by Bihar (7) and Haryana (7). Other notable contributors include Uttar Pradesh (4), Tripura (3), Rajasthan (2), West Bengal (2), and single districts from Chandigarh, Meghalaya and Nagaland, it reads. It further added, Several states are in universal non-compliance, where all monitored districts exceed the NAAQS. These include Delhi, Assam, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Jammu and Kashmir. Several other states show a large majority of districts breaching the norm, such as Bihar (37 of 38), West Bengal (22 of 23), Gujarat (32 of 33), Nagaland (11 of 12), Rajasthan (30 of 33), and Jharkhand (21 of 24). A second group shows mixed performance, where some districts meet the standard but many continue to exceed it. This includes Uttar Pradesh (49 of 75 districts exceeding), Odisha (22 of 30), Madhya Pradesh (27 of 52), and Maharashtra (14 of 36). In the Northeast, Arunachal Pradesh (12 exceed, 13 comply) and Manipur (five exceed, 11 comply) also fall in this transitional category. At the other end of the spectrum, several states have the majority of their districts below NAAQS, such as Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, Sikkim, Goa, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. These contrasting patterns highlight the continued dominance of northern and eastern states in Indias PM 2.5 pollution hotspots, while southern and coastal regions remain relatively cleaner. The report stated that the states should develop district-level air quality action plans, guided by satellite data to identify hotspots, prioritise high-exposure populations, and allocate mitigation resources efficiently. The satellite-derived PM 2.5 data should be formally integrated into NCAP for spatially comprehensive assessment and performance tracking. Also, establishing protocols for validation, periodic updates, and public dissemination of satellite-based estimates will strengthen transparency and enable real-time decision-making in areas lacking ground monitors.
According to reports, the man used to study with the woman in Balasore and the two reconnected last year on social media.
Former England football captain and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Sir David Beckham visited an MJPAPBCWREIS residential school for girls in Visakhapatnam today to see Project-Based Learning (PBL) in action. His visit is part of a wider Mantra4Change programme supported by Education Above All that is improving classrooms across Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha, and Nagaland. Sir David Beckham with students of MJPAPBCWREIS residential school in Visakhapatnam Sir David’s visit, confirmed in a social media update posted late on Wednesday night, brought national attention to a hands-on approach to schooling that places student projects, teamwork, and real-world problem-solving at the centre of learning. Mantra4Change, in partnership with the MJP Society and supported by Education Above All (EAA), has redesigned teaching and learning in 107 residential schools across Andhra Pradesh, reaching roughly 18,000 students and building the capacity of 107 school leaders. The PBL programme has been integrated across English, Mathematics, and Science, turning traditional classrooms into active learning spaces where students learn by doing, collaborate on projects, and present solutions to community problems. On the ground in Visakhapatnam During his visit, Sir David met with students and teachers at the school, observing how Project-Based Learning comes alive in everyday classrooms. He began by sitting in on a live PBL session before being guided by students to a small exhibition where children presented projects across English, Mathematics, and Science. He also joined a group of students for a tree-planting activity, where children demonstrated how they scan and label saplings with digital IDs. In the school library, Sir David participated in a reading circle and spoke with children about their favourite books. The visit concluded outdoors, where students invited him to join a lively ‘one-touch’ football drill. School leaders shared how these varied activities reflect the PBL approach, boosting student confidence, encouraging collaboration, and helping children connect learning with real-life contexts. In his Instagram post, Sir David said, “ Great day in India going back to school supporting Education Above All’s project based learning initiatives so much fun .” “ It gives us great joy that Sir David Beckham chose to visit one of our MJP schools. It’s a proud moment for all of us in the MJP society. His presence at our school in a place like Kothavalasa is a beautiful reminder that when we work with the right intent and dedication, extraordinary things can happen. Project-based Learning has energised our classrooms, and we hope to keep nurturing this spirit of learning ,” said P. Madhavi Latha, Secretary, MJPAPBCWREIS. Project-Based Learning shifts the focus from rote recall to applied understanding. It builds transferable skills, communication, critical thinking, creativity, while lifting measurable academic outcomes. The Mantra4Change-EAA partnership is an example of how targeted support, teacher development and curriculum redesign can scale classroom practices across states. Santosh More, Co-Founder of Mantra4Change , said, “ Sir David Beckham’s visit is an inspiration for all of us and a powerful signal that innovation in our government schools matters. Project-Based Learning is raising children’s aspirations, and moments like this strengthen our resolve to work with governments and communities to make such learning the norm .” The visit also adds fresh momentum to Shikshagraha, a people-powered national movement being co-built by Mantra4Change that is working to improve one million public schools across India. Sir David’s presence and public endorsement of innovative classroom practices like Project-Based Learning strengthens the movement’s core message: that communities, teachers, governments and civil society must come together to transform everyday schooling. The visibility generated by this visit helps amplify Shikshagraha’s call for collective action and accelerates its efforts to ensure every child in a public school has access to meaningful, engaging and future-ready learning. About Mantra4Change Mantra4Change is a non-profit organisation transforming public schools in India through educational leadership. Our approach involves driving continuous school improvements by empowering education leaders, transforming schools to create an enriching learning experience, and inspiring civil society organisations across India to collectively work towards transformation in education. We aim to drive sustainable, continuous school improvements across 150,000 schools by 2025.
Odisha Must Build Climate-Resilient, People-Centric Development: CS Ahuja
The conclave features 15 thematic sessions across five pillarsecosystem protection, just transitions, resilient governance, vulnerability reduction and social leadership
David Beckhams visit in Visakhapatnam school highlights classroom innovation
The initiative is a part of a wider programme of the Mantra4Change supported by Education Above All aimed at improving classrooms across Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha and Nagaland
Droupadi Murmu to become first President to address Odisha Assembly
The President will visit the chamber in the State Assembly where she used to sit as a Minister
Tata Power in talks with Odisha to set up 10 GW ingots, wafers plant
Ingots and wafers are key raw materials used in the production of solar cells and modules, as well as semiconductor chips. Tata Power, which currently has 4.55 GW of cell and module manufacturing capacity, aims to backward integrate ingots and wafers into its solar cell and panel production for both domestic use and export markets.
President Murmus Emotional Homecoming As She Becomes First President To Address Odisha Assembly
Visit to her old ministerial chamber adds a personal touch to a historic opening of the Winter Session: Reports
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy | RuthlessRahaneorchestrates Mumbais thumping win
The former skipper smashes a belligerent half-century as the defending champion runs over Railways; ton-up Kunnummal and Samson make merry in Keralas romp against Odisha
SWASTHYA KIRAN: HURL Partners with The Art of Living to Transform Diagnostic Healthcare in Odisha
In a significant step towards strengthening India’s healthcare landscape, Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Ltd (HURL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The Art of Living Social Projects to implement Project SWASTHYA KIRAN - an initiative aimed at enhancing diagnostic healthcare services in Odisha. A step towards better healthcare in Odisha, blessed by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar: Signing the MoU for Project SWASTHYA KIRAN The MoU was signed by Shri Chaman Jaggi, Vice President, HR & CSR, HURL, and Br. Pragyachaitanya, Chairman, The Art of Living Social Projects and witnessed by Dr Siba Prasad Mohanty, MD, HURL. The moment was blessed by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, whose commitment to accessible, compassionate healthcare continues to inspire service initiatives across the nation. Revolutionising Diagnostics with Advanced CT Imaging Under the partnership, a proposal has been rolled out for the procurement and installation of a state-of-the-art Revolution™ Aspire Select CT Scanner at the Sri Sri College of Ayurvedic Science and Research Hospital (SSCASRH) in Cuttack, Odisha. Operating from the Sri Sri University campus in Bidyadharpur, SSCASRH is poised to evolve into a key diagnostic centre for the region. The introduction of this advanced CT system will dramatically expand the hospital’s capacity to diagnose and treat critical conditions, supporting specialties such as neurology, cardiology, oncology, trauma care, emergency medicine. This transformative upgrade is expected to benefit thousands of patients annually, particularly those facing life-threatening conditions like stroke, trauma, and cancer - situations where time is often the deciding factor. Addressing Odisha’s Urgent Diagnostic Gaps Odisha continues to grapple with serious gaps in diagnostic healthcare, including: Limited availability of CT scanners Long waiting times for diagnostic imaging One of India’s lowest hospital-bed ratios Patients traveling 2 to 4 hours for essential scans For emergency cases, these delays can escalate risks dramatically. Project SWASTHYA KIRAN seeks to bridge these gaps by creating timely, accessible, and affordable diagnostic services for more than 1.5 lakh residents across 50+ surrounding villages. Impact at a Glance The installation of the Revolution™ Aspire Select CT Scanner will: Reduce waiting time and travel. Patients will receive faster access to essential imaging - especially vital for emergency scenarios such as stroke and trauma. Provide affordable, high-quality diagnostics The facility will offer cost-effective CT scanning services, minimising financial strain on rural and underserved communities. Strengthen hospital readiness for emergencies. Enhanced imaging capacity will empower doctors to diagnose swiftly, intervene earlier, and improve patient outcomes. A Step Toward Health Equity Through this collaboration, HURL and The Art of Living Social Projects reaffirm their shared commitment to community well-being. SWASTHYA KIRAN marks a new chapter of reassurance - bringing cutting-edge diagnostic healthcare closer to the people who need it most. About The Art of Living Social Projects The Art of Living, founded by humanitarian and spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, is committed to transforming lives through community-centred initiatives. Working across healthcare, conservation of water resources, education, women’s empowerment, and environmental restoration, it partners with governments, NGOs, corporations, and local communities to bring meaningful change. Through its compassionate, service-driven approach, The Art of Living continues to strengthen well-being and nurture a culture of peace and responsibility worldwide. www.instagram.com/artofliving.sp/ www.facebook.com/artoflivingsocialprojects x.com/artofliving_sp www.linkedin.com/showcase/artofliving-sp
Odisha Police Seize High-Decibel Bikes in Crackdown on Illegal Silencers
Commissionerate Police introduce strict on-spot seizure policy after rising public complaints and death linked to noise pollution.
An SBI branch in Odishas Bhadrak district forced customers and staff to use a ladder mounted on a tractor after its staircase was demolished for encroachment. Viral video sparks safety concerns and online reactions.
Bengal Evicts Odia Traders From Digha, Odisha Retaliates With Ultimatum In Chandaneswar
Displaced Odia shopkeepers have expressed strong resentment and issued a warning to Bengali traders operating in Chandaneswar market in Odishas Balasore district.
Odisha: SBI Customers Forced to Use Ladder After Staircase Demolished
The branch was left without an entry point after its staircase was demolished during an anti-encroachment drive, cutting off access to the first-floor office.
Odisha CM Hands Over Appointment Letters To 7,293 Recruits Across 12 Key Departments
The fresh appointments span 12 crucial government departments, including school and mass education, forest, agriculture, fisheries, commerce and transport, and labour.
Odisha CM hands over 7,293 appointment letters
Against the target of providing 65,000 government jobs within two years, the Odisha government has appointed 37,325 persons in just 17 months, Mohan Majhi said
Indian researchers discover natural colon cancer treatment
Long Pepper, not only spices up Indian cuisine but has the potential to treat Colon Cancer. According to a consortia of researchers led by the National Institute of Technology Rourkela (NIT Rourkela), Odisha, Piperlongumine, an active compound of long pepper (pippali/thippili/maghaun) is effective in treating colon cancer cells. Colon cancer is a disease in which 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 .
Wanted To Return: Odisha Teen Says Her Charges Against US Mother Are Fake
After accusing an American citizen who adopted her of physical and mental torture, a woman on Tuesday claimed that she had made false allegations against her US mother simply to return to Odisha.
Kashmir Shivers As Cold Wave Intensifies, Fog Disrupts Visibility Across Several States
Kashmir faces an intense cold wave with Srinagar at minus 3.1C and Shopian at minus 5.4C. Zojila Pass drops to minus 16C. Dense fog affects Nagaland, Manipur and Odisha
Tiruvallur police arrest two persons, bust inter-State ganja supply chain
The police say a few individuals, originally from Tamil Nadu, who work in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, have been assisting persons from Tamil Nadu and Kerala procure ganja by acting as intermediaries between cultivators/suppliers and inter-State buyers
Compound In Long Pepper May Help Treat Colon Cancer, Odisha Scientists Confirm
A natural compound found in long pepper can be an effective and cost-efficient agent against colon cancer cells, said researchers at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela on Tuesday.
Odisha: BJD MP Debasish Rejects Party Post, Calls It Humiliating
The letter has sparked conversations in political circles about growing unease within the party following its electoral setback and ongoing restructuring
Odisha cabinet approves key amendments to CGL, CHSL recruitment rules
The Odisha Cabinet has approved amendments to recruitment examination rules, including adding the Junior Forensic Assistant post to a combined higher secondary level examination. Further changes were made to graduate level recruitment rules, adding four new posts for Group B and C services and modifying the Special Sports and Services Rules.
Girl Kidnapped, Raped By 5 On Her Way To College In Odisha
A minor girl was allegedly kidnapped and later gang-raped by her friend and his four associates while she was on her way to college in Odisha, officials said.
President Murmu Visit: Odisha Deploys Four-Tier Security Grid
The Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Commissionerate Police has put in place a dedicated three-tier arrangement, supplemented by Presidents Bodyguard (PBG) commandos and other specialised units
Man sentenced to death for murdering pregnant woman in Alappuzha
Prabeesh, 36, of Nilambur convicted for murdering Anitha Sasidharan of Punnapra. Court also finds Rejani, 38, of Kainakary guilty, but her sentence is not pronounced as she is in a jail in Odisha
Missing Odisha Lawyers Car Found in Village Pond After 90 Days
The vehicle, an Alto, was found on Monday morning when residents noticed a tyre sticking out of the water
A court in Kerala's Alappuzha sentences key accused Prabeesh to death in Anitha murder case of 2021
ALAPPUZHA: The Alappuzha Additional Sessions CourtIII on Monday awarded death penalty to the first accused in the Anitha murder case that took place in Kainakari. Prabeesh (37), of Pookodan House, Nilambur, was sentenced to death for the murder of Anitha (32), of Thekkemadam House, Punnapra South panchayat. Rajani (38), of Pathissery House, Thottuvathala, Kainakari, is the second accused in the case. A close friend of Prabeesh, she is currently lodged in an Odisha jail in connection with an NDPS case. Judge M Shuhaib directed the prosecution to produce her in court on November 29 on the basis of a production warrant, after which the quantum of punishment to Rajani will be pronounced. According to the prosecution, Prabeesh strangled Anitha to death while engaging in sexual intercourse, with the intent of removing her from his life so he could continue living with Rajani. A driver by profession, Prabeesh had been cohabiting with Rajani. The murder was allegedly executed at Rajanis house on July 7, 2021. Prosecution reports state that Anitha became unconscious after being strangled. Believing she had died, the accused transported her body in a country boat to Pallathuruthy and dumped it in the canal near the Arayanthodu bridge. Local residents discovered the body the next evening. Initially registered as a case of unnatural death, the woman remained unidentified until Anithas brother recognised the body the following day. A postmortem examination revealed injuries to the throat and damage to the thyroid gland, raising suspicion among doctors, who alerted the police. An analysis of Anithas mobile phone data showed that the last call came from Prabeesh. Further investigation traced his phone location to Kainakari, and records indicated online transactions made using the device. Police later arrested both Prabeesh and Rajani, who reportedly confessed to the crime. Anitha, who was married and the mother of two children, had separated from her husband Aneesh and was living with Prabeesh at Rajanis house. She became pregnant, and attempts by the accused to terminate the pregnancy allegedly failed. This led to escalating conflict, ultimately resulting in the murder, according to the prosecution. The prosecution further stated that after Anitha fell unconscious, the accused placed her body in a fibre boat, intending to abandon it in the middle of the lake. However, the boat capsized, and the body drifted away before washing ashore at Arayanthodu bridge. The court examined 82 witnesses out of a total of 112, and reviewed 131 documents, including the fibre boat used in the crime. The investigation was led by Nedumudi SHO A V Biju, while government pleader N B Shari represented the prosecution.
Cyclone 'Senyar': A low-pressure area over the Strait of Malacca is expected to intensify into cyclonic storm 'Senyar' by November 26. The system is forecast to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall to Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, leading to school holidays. Coastal Odisha may also experience rainfall between November 25 and 27.
GPS Goes Silent: Cabbage-Laden Truck From MP Plunges Into Gorge in Odisha; 3 Injured
The navigation app reportedly went offline because of network disruption
Two migrant workers from Odisha die after falling from roof
Post-Mortems Of All Maoists Killed In Two Encounters Completed
Post-mortem of 10 members, including Central Committee member Hidma, his wife Raje, and Tech Shankar, the in-charge of Andhra-Odisha Border (AOB) region, had been completed on Friday: Reports
Odisha: Man Accused of Sheltering Bangladeshi Infiltrators Arrested After Week-Long Manhunt
Officials said these operations will continue under the states zero-tolerance approach toward unauthorized foreign settlers
Electrification work begins at Subarnapur in Odisha following Mohan Charan Majhis direction
A day after the Chief Minister's direction, officials of the District Administration and personnel of Tata Power Southern Odisha Distribution Limited (TPSODL) visited the hamlet and started installation of around 30 electric poles and a 25-kva transformer
Odisha Woman Set on Fire by In-Laws, Suffers 70% Burns
The woman had reportedly been facing prolonged physical and mental harassment at her marital home
Maharashtra CM Fadnavis Praises Sri Satya Saibaba
The Odisha Governor said these initiatives have inspired national programmes, such as the Jal Jeevan and healthcare reforms.
GCC Hubs To Come Up Across Odisha; Cabinet Clears New Policy For Minor Minerals
State targets over Rs 1,000 crore investment, boosts incentives to attract GCC relocations; e-lottery to replace auctions for sand, stone and other minor minerals: Reports
Odisha Cabinet approves GCC policy intending to set up five GCC hubs in State
In wake of recent irregularities in recruitment of sub inspector of police, establishment of Odisha Uniformed Services Staff Selection Commission (OUSSSC) was approved for all uniformed services
IMD forecasts a developing depression over Bay of Bengal
Heavy rain during the harvesting stage can flatten the plants and compromise the quality of the paddy in Odisha
After Jajpur, fresh detentions of Bengal migrants in Odisha
The 16 migrant workers have been kept in a school Kendrapara since Tuesday midnight. All these workers hail from Murshidabad districts and have been working as construction workers in Odisha for a long time, Walid SK, who is a contractor from Murshidabad, told ET.
Odisha: 8 fishermen arrested for fishing in turtle habitation zones
Kendrapara: The Forest department on Thursday arrested eight more marine fishermen on charge of illegally fishing along the turtle habitation zones in Gahirmatha marine sanctuary of Odishas Kendrapara district. The department also seized their vessel and nets used in fishing. With the latest interception, around 120 fishermen have so far been arrested for acts of 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 .
CUO, UNICEF Partner to Set Up Tribal Communication Cell in Odisha
A step toward strengthening tribal rights and representation
Centre Clears 8,300-Crore Boost For Odisha Coastal Highway Project
PPPAC approval paves way for bids on 160-km RameswarParadip stretch; travel time to drop by 45% as state accelerates major road infrastructure upgrades
Three-way kidney swap links families across India in life-saving chain
NEW DELHI: Fate brought together three families living nearly a thousand kilometres apart, in Bihar, Odisha and Delhi, after each was confronted with the same crisis: a loved one battling end-stage kidney disease and a willing family donor deemed incompatible. Doctors at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, noticed an unusual compatibility chain while reviewing their medical records. Each familys donor matched a patient from one of the other families, enabling a rare three-way paired kidney transplant that ultimately gave all three men a second chance at life. The procedure required six surgeries to be conducted simultaneously across six operation theatres between 8 am and 3 pm. Doctors said the coordination required for such an exchange was immense, particularly because the recipients had significant health complications. All donors and recipients recovered well and were discharged within a week, the hospital said. The three recipients, 36-year-old Shadab Ali from Rani Ganj in West Bengal, 52-year-old Joginder Kumar from Hari Nagar in Delhi, and 51-year-old Vinod Kumar from Obra in Bihar, had been surviving on dialysis for months. Shadab was battling IgA nephropathy and peripheral neuropathy, a neurological complication associated with advanced kidney disease. Joginder had undergone a previous transplant that had failed, and doctors said his heart function was critically low. Vinod had a history of coronary artery disease and had undergone bypass surgery before his kidneys deteriorated. Although all three had relatives willing to donate, none was compatible with their own patient. According to hospital officials, that changed when the families agreed to participate in a paired kidney exchange. Under the arrangement, Shadabs wife, 30-year-old Simran Parveen, donated her kidney to Joginder. Joginders sister, 41-year-old Suman, donated to Vinod. Vinods wife, 51-year-old Poonam Devi, donated to Shadab. Dr Anant Kumar, chairman of urology, renal transplant and robotics at Max Saket, who led the transplant team, said the case was a moving example of unity and empathy. Families who had never met before placed complete trust in one another, defying religious and regional divides to give the ultimate gift of life, he said. For him, the challenge was not only surgical but emotional. Coordinating six simultaneous transplants, including patients with cardiac and neurological complications, was a major challenge, but the collaboration between the families and the hospital teams made it a success, Kumar said. Dr Dinesh Khullar, group chairman of nephrology and renal transplant medicine at the hospital, said paired kidney exchanges are becoming increasingly necessary. Kidney transplants in India largely depend on living related donors, but this pool is shrinking as nuclear families become the norm. Often, a willing donor cannot donate because of a blood group mismatch or immune sensitisation from previous transplants, transfusions or pregnancies. In such cases, a paired or swap transplant becomes the way forward, he said. Khullar said advanced software helped the team identify the cross-matches needed to carry out all three surgeries on the same day.
Nineteen years and counting: Nitishs unbroken grip on Bihar
On Thursday, Nitish Kumar achieved yet another rare political milestone, becoming Bihars longest-serving chief minister, despite his party repeatedly finishing as the second-largest partner in both the Mahagathbandhan and NDA alliances in recent times. With this latest swearing-in , he joins the group of Indias ten longest-serving chief ministersa list long dominated by political stalwarts such as Sikkims Pawan Kumar Chamling and Odishas Naveen Patnaik. Chamling served as chief minister for 25 years, while Patnaik has held office for 24 years. West Bengals Jyoti Basu governed for more than 23 years, and Arunachal Pradeshs Gegong Apang for over 22 years. Mizorams Lal Thanhawla also crossed the 22-year mark, while Himachal Pradeshs Virbhadra Singh served more than 21 years. Tripuras Manik Sarkar held office for 19 years. Nitish Kumar, similarly, has now completed roughly 19 years as Bihars chief minister. Tamil Nadus M. Karunanidhi served for more than 18 years, and Punjabs Parkash Singh Badal is also credited with over 18 years in office. In Bihar, however, what distinguishes Nitish Kumar most is his repeated return to the top post, even after shifting between alliances. While Prime Minister Modi promotes the mantra of Sabka Vikas with Sabka Saath through Sabka Prayas, Nitish Kumar is often described as Sabka CM. Political observers in the state believe this contributes to his steady influence among minority voters. He has again included a Muslim minister in his cabinet, and the JD(U) fielded four Muslim candidates in the recently concluded Bihar Assembly elections. Another point of alignment between him and Prime Minister Modi is his refusal to allow family members to hold roles within the JD(U), reflecting his firm stance against dynastic politicssomething that contrasts with many parties in the Mahagathbandhan. Just as Modi maintains a stance of zero tolerance for corruption and nepotism, Nitish Kumar has ensured that neither corruption, nepotism, nor communalism gains a foothold in his administration. The political chemistry between Nitish Kumar and Narendra Modi within the NDA is often regarded as one of the most dependable partnerships in Bihar. Both leaders have no family members active in politics and are widely seen by the public as hardworking, sincere, and trustworthy.
Four-year-old boy dies after swallowing toy in chips packet in Kandhamal
A toddler dies in Odisha after a toy in a chips packet got stuck in his food pipe. The toy choked the airway of the child, which led to his unfortunate death. Health experts and parents have urged the authorities to stop putting small toys in snack packets. They urged these products target children and carry a serious choking risk.
Odisha: 'The Sky Now Lies to us': Changing Rainfall Patterns Erasing Koraputs Traditional Seeds
In Odishas tribal heartland, unpredictable monsoons are wiping out indigenous crops and with them, centuries of farming knowledge and cultural memory.
50,000 children still await justice as juvenile boards battle 55 per cent case backlog: Report
NEW DELHI: More than 50,000 children in conflict with the law remain stuck in a slow-moving justice system where over half the cases are pending at 362 Juvenile Justice Boards (JJBs), according to a new India Justice Report (IJR) study released on Thursday. Despite ten years of the Juvenile Justice Act coming into force, glaring gaps, ranging from missing judges, under-inspected homes, absent data systems and wide state-level disparities continue to afflict justice delivery, the study said. The report, Juvenile Justice and Children in Conflict with the Law: A Study of Capacity at the Frontlines, shows that as of October 31, 2023, 55 per cent of 100,904 cases before JJBs were pending, with pendency ranging from 83 per cent in Odisha to 35 per cent in Karnataka. Though 92 per cent of India's 765 districts have constituted JJBs, one in four boards operates without a full bench. On average, each JJB carried a backlog of 154 cases. The findings come against the backdrop of 40,036 juveniles being apprehended in 31,365 cases under the IPC and special laws in 2023, with three-fourths of them aged between 16 and 18, according to Crime in India data. Yet, a decade after decentralising juvenile justice architecture, the study says systemic limitations continue to block timely support and rehabilitation. NCPCR rescues over 2,300 children in six months, calls for stronger monitoring and awareness The report highlights that 30 per cent of JJBs do not have an attached legal services clinic. Fourteen states and Jammu and Kashmir lack places of safety, vital for housing children above 18. Oversight of Child Care Institutions (CCIs) is also falling short across 166 homes in these states; only 810 of the mandated 1,992 inspections were carried out. Data from 292 districts further show there are just 40 child care homes exclusively for girls. The study flagged the near absence of publicly available national-level data on juvenile justice. With no equivalent of the National Judicial Data Grid for JJBs, the IJR team had to file more than 250 RTI applications. The response pattern itself pointed to weak transparency of over 500 replies received from 28 states and two Union Territories; 11 per cent were rejected, 24 per cent received no response, 29 per cent were merely transferred, and only 36 per cent provided usable information. Calling the findings a warning sign, Maja Daruwala, chief editor of the India Justice Report, said the juvenile justice system relies on a regular flow of information from authorities. But the attempt to gather basic data showed that authorised oversight bodies neither receive it routinely nor insist on it. Scattered and irregular data makes supervision episodic and accountability hollow, she said.
Love, law, and the extent of the matter
This week, quashing a case in which a petitioner had taken her ex to court after the end of a long-term relationship, alleging breach of promise, Justice B Pugalendhi of the Madras High Court, Madurai Bench, ruled that private discord arising from consensual acts cannot be converted into criminal misconduct. Other courts in India have recently taken the same decision, including the Odisha High Court in a case in February and the Delhi High Court in a case in September. Cases heard in the Supreme Court, which this Madras High Court ruling referenced, also set earlier precedents. They all concur: attempting to criminalise romantic relationships that had been consensual at the time they occurred is legal misuse. Laws involving a deceitful promise of marriage in order to gain sexual favour are meant especially to serve those who place a high value on concepts like virginity. They exist in India to protect women, in line with societal attitudes on sexual morality and what women stand to lose as a result. Men cant misuse these laws only because they dont have access to them for now. While concepts of sexual purity are regressive and anti-feminist, providing a recourse for women who believe in them today is not antithetical to the anti-patriarchal work of celebrating healthy sexuality. Such recourse necessarily acknowledges what is. Expansively, by speaking of consensual agency when quashing misuse, the courts allude to a more progressive society a feminist aim. This is also all within a context where a growing misogynistic movement frames laws that protect women as being disproportionately weaponised against men. Numerous cases involving the alleged misuse of anti-dowry laws, and recent social media frenzies following related suicides, have been fuelling this perception. But the existence of all such laws, the necessity because of which they were created, is more reflective of reality than stray cases of their misuse. However we slice it, no one petitioning a court to give her the sense of justice or closure she longs for is nearly as harmful as someone who takes the law into their own hands and resorts to violence. Women lawyering up when a relationship fails in India as a phenomenon is nowhere close in scale to the acid attacks, stalking, sexual assault and murders that occur to women when their male lovers feel scorned. Not statistically. Not ethically. Acrimony is often attached to the end of romantic relationships, and sometimes a denouement reveals true colours hitherto unseen. A wide range of angry desires may arise after a break-up. A person may be justified in feeling cheated, and may also hope to experience vindication. But to look to the law to provide that catharsis is a waste of ones own resources, above all. We cant criminalise our exes for being jerks to us and for making a mockery of our love by making a mockery of serious laws. To tie ourselves up in litigation furthers our own misery, too. It is possible to imagine how an individual may feel empowered by slapping a case on her ex, even briefly. But that is merely choice feminism, not a step that moves the needle for everyone.
Odisha Boy, 4, Dies After Swallowing Miniature Toy From Chips Packet
A four-year-old boy died after allegedly swallowing a miniature toy from a chips packet in Odisha's Kandhamal district, police said Wednesday.
Odisha Builds Indias Second-Longest Rail Bridge in Nayagarh
Gigantic pillars are taking shape across the Nayagarh and Daspalla regions, with the East Coast Railway (ECoR) releasing aerial footage showcasing the scale of the ongoing work
Intelligence Additional Director General (ADG) Mahesh Chandra Laddha confirmed that an encounter between security forces and Maoists along the Andhra-Odisha border (AOB) took place, killing six to seven maoists.
Odisha: BJP Confident of Winning 3 RS Seats After Nuapada Bypoll Win
The electoral arithmetic strongly favours the BJP, which now holds 82 MLAs in the 147-member Odisha Assembly
Seven Maoists killed in Andhra encounter, day after police gun down top commander
RAIPUR: Seven Maoists were killed on Wednesday in an exchange of fire with security forces in the Maredumilli area of Andhra Pradesh, police said, marking the second major blow to Maoist ranks within 24 hours. The development comes a day after six Maoists, including Madvi Hidma, who heads the Peoples Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) Battalion 1, were killed in an encounter with security personnel in Andhra Pradesh's Alluri Sitaramaraju district. Addressing a press conference, AP Intelligence ADG Mahesh Chandra Laddha said, In continuation with Tuesday's operation, seven Maoists have died until now, according to information received from the field. Seven bodies, including those of three women, have so far been recovered from the site. The Greyhounds, the elite anti-Maoist force, are continuing combing operations in the thick forest terrain of the ASR district. Eight weapons, including two AK-47 rifles, were also recovered by the forces from the encounter site, officials said. Among those killed was Meturi (Metturu) Jog Rao, alias Shankar, identified as an AndhraOdisha Border Special Zonal Committee (AOBSZC) member, Central Committee member, and in charge of AndhraOdisha Border (AOB) operations. A native of Srikakulam, Shankar was considered a specialist in technical operations, arms manufacturing and communication systems, officials said. Other slain Maoists include Sita alias Jyothi, a Divisional Committee Member (AOBSZC), and five Area Committee Members (ACMs) of the AOBSZC, according to preliminary information. (This is a developing story) Most wanted Maoist leader Madvi Hidma killed 12 days ahead of Amit Shah's deadline
Another Encounter in AOB; 67 Maoists Killed: ADG
Early-morning exchange of fire on the AndhraOdisha border; police intensify combing after recent Maredumilli operation
School holiday on November 19: Schools to remain closed in THESE states today due to...
Heavy rain alerts for 19 November 2025 may lead to school closures in several Tamil Nadu districts, while Delhi NCR, Bihar, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha are expected to keep schools open. Puducherry and Karaikal may announce holidays depending on worsening rainfall.
NIA Charges 10 in Minor Trafficking Case
SRINAGAR: A total of 10 accused have been chargesheeted by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in connection with the trafficking of a minor Bangladeshi girl from across the eastern border into Odisha. In its chargesheet filed before its special court in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, the agency has charged the accused for luring the girl with the []
100-plus minors, held as bonded labourers, rescued from Raipur factory
NHRC member says that the children mostly tribals from Assam, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Odisha were exposed to formaldehyde, a chemical known to cause cancer
The Supreme Court has recalled its May 16 judgement. This decision prevents the demolition of public infrastructure worth Rs 20,000 crore. Projects like AIIMS Odisha and Vijayanagar Airport can now be regularised. This recall offers relief for essential public welfare projects. It avoids significant waste of public funds and disruption of services.
Odisha CM Issues 9-Point Directive To Collectors And SPs To Maintain Transparency In Governance
CM Majhi asked district collectors to curb corruption
Schools in Tamil Nadu may face closures on November 19 due to heavy rain alerts. Other states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Odisha are expected to have normal school operations. Parents and students should stay updated with local school administrations for any changes. Weather conditions are being closely monitored for student safety.
Odisha Launches State-wide Crackdown On Suspected Bangladeshi Infiltrators; Several Detained
Keonjhar district saw an unusual administrative step: a 12-hour bandh was enforced to facilitate the crackdown
Four arrested in Odisha for stealing gold from jewel making unit in Chennai
As much as 258 grams of stolen gold ornaments were recovered from them.
NIOS has released a revised schedule for the examinations it postponed earlier this month, offering much-needed clarity to students across Bihar, Odishas Nuapada constituency and all India centres. The updated dates, issued following recent notifications, realign key Secondary and Senior Secondary papers. The board has urged exam centres to ensure smooth conduct by adhering strictly to the revised timetable.
Odisha: Time to Conserve, Before Nature Becomes Unforgiving
Be it tropical cyclones, tornadoes, hurricanes or floods that worsen the human, flora and fauna life cycle, the state needs to step up conservation, especially of mangroves.
After battling for over 72 hours for life, Humane Sagar passed away, leaving millions of fans stranded and a void in the music industry that shaped modern Ollywood melodies.
Odishas popular singer Humane Sagar dies at 36; CM Majhi, BJDs Naveen Patnaik convey condolences
The Odia singer was diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia, acute on chronic liver failure (ACLF), multi-organ dysfunction syndrome and other complications
No anticipatory bail for two accused of cheating former Karnataka CM Sadananda Gowda
BENGALURU: A city civil and sessions court has refused to grant anticipatory bail to two persons accused of cheating former chief minister DV Sadananda Gowda of nearly Rs 3 lakh in September. Sriu Tenzin Pelyon, 32, of Himachal Pradesh and Yeshi Chodon, 31, from Odisha, directors of Lhakar Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Domlur, Bengaluru North, had applied for anticipatory bail. Considering the objections filed by the prosecution, Judge Gangappa Irappa Patil, 52nd Additional City Civil and Sessions Court, said that in the FIR, the names of the accused have not been mentioned. It is true that the FIR has been registered against unknown persons. Money has been transferred to the bank account of the company of the accused... At this stage, it is not a fit case to grant bail to the petitioners, he said. In his complaint filed at the North CEN crime police station, Gowda said that he had purchased a new Innova car and on September 11, he received a message purportedly from India Post stating that the Registration Certificate (RC) of his vehicle has been sent. But it did not reach him. Later, when he tried to track the speed post sent to him on the Indian Speed Post Tracking system, he received a link that sought certain details. He submitted alldetails, including the tracking ID. Subsequently, he received a WhatsApp call from cellphone No. 84******03, claiming to be from India Post courier customer care centre. The caller requested him to make a nominal payment of Rs 2 for verification of the tracking ID. Gowda tried to make the payment through PhonePe, but failed. Then, the unknown caller informed Gowda that the RC card will be sent to his residential address. Gowda stated that when he checked his savings accounts withSBI, Axis Bank and HDFC banks around 9am on September 17, he found that Rs 2,85,999 had been withdrawn without his knowledge. Meanwhile, the investigation took theCEN police to the accuseds company. Fearing their arrest, the accused approached the court for anticipatory bail.Claiming that they haveno role in the crime, the accused said the bank account of their company has been wrongly and inadvertently linked to the offence, despite having no transaction or monetary link with the accounts of Gowda. Neither their company nor its directors used the cell phone No. 84******03, they claimed. The public prosecutor filed objections stating that the investigation is pending and the police are yet to file the chargesheet. If the petitioners are granted anticipatory bail, their presence cannot be secured easily. Further, the petitioners are from other states, though they work in Bengaluru. If they are granted anticipatorybail, they may tamper with witnesses and hamper the investigation.
Renowned Odia singer Humane Sagar passed away at 34 after a brief illness at AIIMS Bhubaneswar. Known for his soulful voice, Sagar rose to fame after winning 'Voice of Odisha' and delivered numerous hit songs in Odia cinema. His demise has left a significant void in the state's music and film industry.
MHA issues advisory against online scams, flags fake social media ads as key concern
NEW DELHI: The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued an advisory requesting people to beware of fraudulent investment schemes, fake job offers and other online scams. The I4C under the MHA stated in the advisory that, in most of such advertisements, scamsters use deepfake videos to misguide the users leading to devastating financial losses for victims across the country who could be deceived by convincing visuals, false claims and professional-looking online pages. The advisory also highlighted a few cases of cyber fraud. In a recent case, a 25-year-old medical representative from Ahmedabad lost Rs 44 lakh in a trading scam that began with an Instagram advertisement. Drawn by the promise of high returns, he joined a Telegram group managed by fraudsters posing as financial advisers. The group initially showed rising profits on screen to build confidence before the victims entire investment suddenly disappeared, the advisory said. In another case, a 40-year-old woman from Ashok Vihar in Delhi lost Rs 21 lakh after falling for a fraudulent stock trading advertisement on social media. She had downloaded a fraudulent mobile application that closely resembled a legitimate brokerage platform. At first, small profits appeared in her account, convincing her of its authenticity. She was then added to a WhatsApp group of more than one hundred members where a woman posing as an expert guided her on investments. Believing the scheme to be genuine, she transferred money across three different bank accounts in Punjab, Bengal and Odisha. When she declined to invest a further Rs 70 lakh, she was blocked from the application and realised she had been cheated, the MHA said. Similarly, a student from Rohini lost more than Rs 1.4 lakh in a fake cashback scheme promoted through social media. Lured by promises of commissions via QR codes, she continued transferring money in the hope of recovering earlier payments. After a friend alerted her, she lodged a cyber fraud complaint and froze her account, recovering Rs 40,000. But by then she had lost Rs 1 lakh, the advisory said. More to these cases of scams relating to work from home have also been reported, the MHA said, while noting that these incidents share a common pattern: fake advertisements, social media manipulation and rapid movement of funds across several accounts to make recovery difficult. The MHA said, even as the I4C continues to monitor and counter these threats by working with law enforcement agencies and digital platforms, people are advised to stay alert and avoid responding to unsolicited investment schemes, cashback offers or part-time job messages circulating online. Any suspicious activity should be reported immediately through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal ( www.cybercrime.gov.in ) or by calling the 1930 helpline, which has enabled the recovery of significant amounts for victims nationwide, the MHA said, while asking people to remain alert and aware and follow only the official social media handle CYBERDOST on all leading social media platforms.
India and the US are nearing a trade deal. A cold wave is expected in Odisha. The Supreme Court has criticized Rajasthan for river pollution. Anil Ambani has again skipped an ED summons. Russia hopes for a Putin-Trump summit. Ousted Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina has been sentenced to death. Pakistan's bank is restricting dollar cash.
Bulldozer Razes Illegal Houses Of Suspected Bangladeshi National To Ground In Odishas Jagatsinghpur
The demolished houses, standing for the past four years, were reportedly built illegally by the prime accused, Sikandar Alam alias Siku and his aides
Cold wave warning for 4 Odisha districts, G Udaygiri coldest place in state at 5.4 degree Celsius
A chilling cold wave has enveloped Odisha, prompting the India Meteorological Department to alert several districts. G Udaygiri has plunged to a frigid 5.4 degrees Celsius, marking a stark reminder of winter's bite. Bhubaneswar is experiencing its coldest November night in a quarter-century, as biting north-westerly winds sweep down from Northern India.
Odisha Crackdown: Two Suspected Bangladeshi Nationals Held, Firearm Seized In Jagatsinghpur
According to police sources, more than 30 suspected Bangladeshi nationals had been residing in a rented house in the densely populated Beheram Basti locality.
Large cache of arms, explosives found in cave in Odisha forest
They are suspected to have been hidden by Maoists
Odisha CM Majhi Pays Tributes to Birsa Munda in Paderu, Unveils Statue
Birsa Mundas influence had been immense, with successive governments now appointing Adivasi as chief ministers in Odisha and Chhattisgarh and the President of Indias post also going to a tribal woman.
Tragedy at Odishas Balasore Hospital: Doctor Dies While Attending Patients
He was rushed in a 108 ambulance to the Balasore District Headquarters Hospital, where attending doctors declared him dead. Though the exact cause is yet to be officially confirmed, initial reports suggest a suspected cardiac arrest.
DC Edit | Bypoll Boost for Telangana & Odisha CMs; Jolt to Omar
The win is very essential for Reddy as the Opposition made two of his major initiatives rejuvenation of the Musi river and clearing encroachments on lakes and government lands through specialised agency Hydraa poll issues
Odisha Man Held in Srikakulam for Smuggling 13 kg of Ganja
The accused was apprehended at the Kasibugga bus stand while attempting to move the contraband concealed in a trolley bag
Butterfly that mimics dry leaf may become Madhya Pradeshs next 'state butterfly'
pBHOPAL: A tropical Asian butterfly, famed for its extraordinary ability to camouflage itself as a dry or dead leaf, may soon be declared tiger-cheetah state Madhya Pradeshs state butterfly. The countrys tiger-cheetah-leopard-wolf and gharial state Madhya Pradesh may soon notify the Orange Oakleaf variety as its state butterfly. If the state forest departments proposal to declare Kallima inachus as the states butterfly materialises, the Orange Oakleaf will become the central Indian states official state butterfly. Confirming that a proposal has been sent recently to the state government, MPs Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF-Wildlife), Subhranjan Sen, said once the proposal is cleared, MP will join the select league of states which already have their state butterflies. The Orange Oakleaf butterfly is particularly found in the dense forests of the Satpura Mountain Range. Its declaration as the states butterfly will render momentum to focussed efforts on butterfly conservation, Sen told TNIE on Sunday. At least ten states and Union Territories in the country have granted state butterfly status to unique genres of butterflies. These states include Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Tripura and Uttarakhand, which notified their state butterflies between 2016 and 2023. Once MP notifies the Orange Oakleaf as its state butterfly, it will become perhaps the first state in central India to do so. The Orange Oakleaf butterfly flies in the Himalayas at low elevations, from Jammu and Kashmir to Garhwal and Kumaon, and across West Bengal, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and other northeastern states. It is also found in central and peninsular India, including Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Odisha. It flies along the central Indian highlands to Pachmarhi and Amarkantak in the Satpura Mountain Range in Madhya Pradesh. Its wings are shaped like a leaf when in a closed position. When the wings are closed, only the cryptic underside markings are visible. The resemblance to a dried leafa masqueradeis extremely realistic and gives the genus its common names, the oakleaf or dead leaf. Butterflies occupy a key position in ecosystem stability by acting as pollinators, helping plants reproduce and being a critical part of the food web or chain also, rendering a food source for predators like birds and bats. They are also vital environmental indicators, as their sensitivity to changes in their habitat signals the overall health of an ecosystem, the PCCF-Wildlife said. Notification of a state butterfly by the forest- and wildlife-rich state will also promote focussed research on various butterflies in MP, which is already considered home to 150 to 175 butterfly varieties.
Birsa Munda statue to be unveiled in Paderu; Odisha CM to attend
Odisha Ports To Get Major Security Boost As Coast Guard Plans Expansion, New Drone Unit
Coast Guard Inspector General Iqbal Singh Chauhan said these proposals have already been placed before the Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who has assured support for providing space and infrastructure as new ports develop along the states coastline
'Congress abandoned tribals, BJP restored their dignity and development': PM Modi
AHMEDABAD: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking on Janjatiya Gaurav Divas on Saturday in Gujarat, launched a blistering political attack on the Congress. He accused the party of abandoning tribal communities for six decades and failing to recognise their contributions. He highlighted the BJPs record of expanding welfare spending, building institutions, and elevating Adivasi leaders to national prominence since 2014. PM Modi also invoked history, stating that tribal sacrifices in the freedom struggle were suppressed to glorify 'a few families', and asserted that his government restored long-overdue honour to tribal icons and communities across India. He also accused the Congress of leaving tribal communities to their fate during its six decades in power. He said that malnutrition, poor health services, broken connectivity and the absence of education became the forced identity of tribal regions as previous governments refused to intervene. They sat idle while an entire community struggled, he declared, linking each failure directly to Congress leadership. PM Modi also recalled the political timeline, emphasising that it was only when Atal Bihari Vajpayee became Prime Minister that India saw the creation of a dedicated Ministry of Tribal Affairs, something he described as a foundational correction that Congress had never even attempted. Yet, once the Congress-led government returned to power, the ministry was reduced to a token department with only a small amount allotted for tribal welfare, stalling crucial development. He said his government, since 2014, increased the ministrys spending several times, building momentum for development in areas ignored for generations. He linked the expansion directly to health reforms, stating that the government boosted medical facilities in tribal districts as they face the deadly threat of sickle cell anaemia. He also linked welfare to empowerment, highlighting massive investment in sports infrastructure and reminding the audience that Indias World Cup-winning womens team had one proud tribal player who symbolised rising representation. Seamlessly shifting from welfare to recognition, PM Modi underscored how his government honoured Adivasi achievements long overshadowed by dynastic politics. In the pursuit of giving credit for independence to a few families, the sacrifice and dedication of my tribal brothers and sisters were ignored, he said, expanding the critique into a broader historical narrative. He argued that before 2014, icons like Bhagwan Birsa Munda were not widely remembered, but his government changed it so that the future generation would know the great gift our tribal brothers and sisters gave us. PM Modi pointed to the surge in tribal representation as evidence of this shift. He recalled the Padma Shri awarded to Adivasi painter Paresh Rathwa and highlighted that Indias President today comes from the tribal community. With the same breath, he cited the rise of leaders such as Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Chhattisgarhs Chief Minister, who he said is driving transformative change, Nagalands Neiphiu Rio, who is doing remarkable work,. He also mentioned Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, who is working tirelessly to develop his state. PM Modi said that it reflected a new era where tribal communities are not just beneficiaries, but leaders shaping Indias direction. He noted that the tribal societys roots extend back to Lord Ram, yet their place in Indias progress was never acknowledged by earlier governments. By the end of his speech, PM Modis message wove together politics, history, development, identity and framed the BJP as the first party to give tribal communities both recognition and representation, portraying Congress as the force that kept them on the margins for decades. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated development projects worth over Rs 9,700 crore in Gujarats Narmada district, giving a major push to the states infrastructure drive. Earlier in the day, he reviewed the construction progress of the bullet train station in Surat, an important node of the MumbaiAhmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor, before heading to events commemorating the birth anniversary of tribal icon Birsa Munda.
Bypoll double blow to NC in J&K, Congress wins Anta in BJP-ruled Raj
NEW DELHI: Ruling parties on Friday suffered defeats in four of the eight seats where Assembly bypolls were held on November 11, with the Congress bagging one seat in BJP-ruled Rajasthan and PDP handing the National Conference its first defeat in Budgam. The BJP won the Nagrota seat in J&K and Mizorams main Opposition Mizo National Front (MNF) retained Dampa seat with its candidate R Lalthangliana defeating Vanlalsailova of the Zoram Peoples Movement by 562 votes. In Nagrota, BJPs Devyani Rana defeated J&K National Panthers Party candidate Harsh Dev Singh by 24,647 votes. Opposition PDPs Aga Syed Muntazir won the Budgam bypoll, defeating NC candidate Aga Syed Mehmood by 4,478 votes. The bypoll was necessitated after CM Omar Abdullah vacated the seat and chose family bastion Ganderbal after winning from both in assembly elections last year. In Anta, Pramod Jain Bhaya of Congress defeated BJPs Morpal Suman by 15,612 votes. The bypoll was necessitated after BJP MLA Kanwar Lal Meena was disqualified following his conviction in a criminal case. AAP retained the Tarn Taran seat in Punjab, with its candidate Harmeet Singh Sandhu defeating SAD nominee Sukhwinder Kaur Randhawa by 12,091 votes. JMM candidate Somesh Chandra Soren beat his nearest rival Babulal Soren of BJP in Ghatshila by-election in Jharkhand by over 38,500 votes. Somesh is the son of JMM MLA Ramdas Soren, whose death necessitated the bypoll. In Odishas Nuapada, BJPs Jay Dholakia beat Ghasi Ram Majhi of the Congress by 83,748 votes. V Naveen Yadav of Congress won Jubilee Hills seat defeating BRS nominee Maganti Sunitha by 24,729 votes.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today thanked the voters of Jammu and Kashmir, and Odisha for ensuring the victories of BJP candidates in the Assembly by-polls whose results were announced this afternoon. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp I thank the people of Nagrota in Jammu and Kashmir as well as Nuapada in Odisha for blessing the BJP with spectacular victories in the by-polls, Modi said in a post on X. Congratulations to the newly elected MLAs Devyani Rana and [] The post PM thanks voters of Nagrota appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Sarthak retains U-17 title; J&Ks Ritvik shines at National Table Tennis Cship
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 14: Jammu and Kashmirs Ritvik Gupta fought valiantly but fell short as Odishas Sarthak Arya clinched the U-17 Youth Boys title for the second consecutive year at the 4th UTT National Ranking Table Tennis Championships, held at the Tau Devi Lal Multipurpose Indoor Stadium, Panchkula, Haryana. The final was a thrilling encounter, with Sarthak overcoming Ritvik by 3-2 (11-7, 9-11, 9-11, 11-2, 12-10). Ritvik, representing J&K, had looked strong in the first three games but [] The post Sarthak retains U-17 title; J&Ks Ritvik shines at National Table Tennis Cship appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
By-polls across seven states: Ruling parties hold ground in four states; Opposition gains in three
In a recent by-poll showdown, the political landscape across seven states witnessed intriguing outcomes. Both the BJP and PDP celebrated victories, each securing a seat in the contentious region of Jammu and Kashmir, leaving the ruling National Conference with a red face. In Odisha, the BJP triumphed in Nuapada, while Congress reclaimed its foothold in Anta, Rajasthan.
Ex-CM Naveen Patnaiks Brand Value Takes A Hit As BJD Slips Further In Odisha
The BJDs vote share crashed to 18.87 per cent a staggering 21.35 percentage point drop from the 40.22 per cent it won in the 2024 Assembly polls: Reports
IN J&K, the PDP wrests Budgam in central Kashmir from the NC. The BJP wins Nagrota in J&K and Nuapada in Odisha. The Congress bags Anta in Rajasthan and Jubilee Hills in Telangana. Opposition Mizo National Front retains Dampa in Mizoram. The AAP retains Tarn Taran in Punjab and the JMM retains Ghatshila in Jharkhand
Odisha Bypoll: BJPs Jay Dholakia Wins Nuapada Seat; Naveen Patnaik-Led BJD Pushed To Third Spot
Dholakia secured 1,23,869 votes, while Majhi managed 40,121. The Biju Janata Dal (BJD), which governed Odisha for 24 uninterrupted years until its defeat in 2024, finished a distant third.
