Odisha Weather Alert: Rain And Thunderstorm Warning In 5 Districts
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow nowcast warning for rain, lightning and thunder in five districts of Odisha. According to the warning issued at 11:30 am on September 19, light to moderate rain accompanied by lightning and thunder is likely at one or two places in Baleshwar, Jagatsinghpur, Balangir, Bargada and Anugola [] The post Odisha Weather Alert: Rain And Thunderstorm Warning In 5 Districts appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Ministry of Rural Development to begin DDUGKY 2.0 training batches in Oct
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 19 (IANS) The Ministry of Rural Development will roll out Deen Dayal UpadhyayaGrameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDUGKY) 2.0 training batches across most states and union territories (UTs) from October 2026, an official statement said on Saturday. As many as 1,164 batches enrolling 34,920 rural youth will start training in October, against a sanctioned target of 3,57,112 rural youth to be trained by December 31, 2027, in these 14 jurisdictions. The statement from the Ministry of Rural Development said preparedness for the commencement of training batches was reviewed with 14 States and UTs in the first phase. Preparedness was evaluated at Odisha, Mizoram, Sikkim, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Himachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Puducherry, Karnataka, Telangana and Bihar. As per the DDU-GKY 2.0 portal, allocation of 5.6 lakh targets towards more than 1,200 projects has been done by 24 states or UTs. Other states are in the advanced stages of target allocation. Review meetings in phases will expedite the processes of batch commencement. The Ministry emphasised that that scheme is in a crucial phase and called upon implementing States/UTs to accelerate the allocation of targets to Project Implementing Agencies (PIAs) and to commence batches as per envisaged timelines. DDU-GKY is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme for poor rural youth providing placement-linked skill training. The duration of the training varies from 3 months to 12 months. The meeting reviewed the preparedness of states/UTs for implementation of DDU-GKY 2.0. The targets have been allocated to all the 31 participating states or UTs for a 2-year period 2026-28. States or UTs are supposed to ensure allocation of targets to PIAs for commencement of training latest by October 31, 2026. Over 5 lakh targets have already been allocated to PIAs for mobilisation of eligible rural youths, the statement noted.
Low-pressure area to form over North Andaman Sea, move to Odisha coast
The News Mill
BCCI Confident Asia Cup Trophies Will
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has said the Asia Cup trophies won by the Indian mens and womens teams will eventually reach its headquarters in Mumbai, even as the standoff over their presentation continues. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia made the statement after the boards 95th Annual General Meeting in Mumbai on [] The post BCCI Confident Asia Cup Trophies Will Land In Mumbai After Mohsin Naqvi Stand-Off appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Maharashtra TET leak: Chargesheet says question papers smuggled out in shoe insoles for Rs 8,000
A nearly 3,500-page chargesheet filed by the Thane City police stated in the Maharashtra TET leak on Saturday said that the question papers were smuggled out of an Agra printing press hidden inside shoe insoles by two employees for a mere Rs 8,000. The chargesheet that was submitted before a local court in Bhiwandi on Friday, names 18 accused, including alleged mastermind Bijendra Gupta, who was previously implicated in an Odisha paper leak, with 16 suspects already arrested and two key accomplices, Ashok Sav and Prakash Misal, remaining absconding as investigations continue.
NISER Student Dies After Falling From Hostel Roof In Odisha
A third-year student of the National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER) reportedly died after falling from the roof of the Bhagirathi hostel. The deceased has been identified as Vinay Sanyasi Venkat, a third-year Integrated MSc student and a resident of Nagpur, Maharashtra. Student Dies At AIIMS Bhubaneswar According to reports, Vinay reportedly slipped [] The post NISER Student Dies After Falling From Hostel Roof In Odisha appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Trump Signs Russia Sanctions Law, India Faces Up To 100% Tariff Risk
US President Donald Trump has signed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 into law, giving the administration expanded authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on imports from major purchasers of Russian oil and gas, including India. The legislation, formally identified by the White House as H.R. 5334, authorises [] The post Trump Signs Russia Sanctions Law, India Faces Up To 100% Tariff Risk appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
IIT Bombay Student Dies By Suicide After Being Caught With Phone During Exam; Students Protest
A second-year undergraduate student of the Energy Science and Engineering department at IIT Bombay died by suicide on Friday, hours after an incident during an examination in which he was found using a mobile phone. The students death prompted a protest on the Powai campus, with students seeking answers from the administration over the circumstances [] The post IIT Bombay Student Dies By Suicide After Being Caught With Phone During Exam; Students Protest appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Maharashtra TET papers smuggled in shoe insoles for 8K, says chargesheet
Question papers for the Maharashtra Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) were smuggled out of an Agra printing press hidden inside shoe insoles by two employees for a mere Rs 8,000, a nearly 3,500-page chargesheet filed by the Thane City police stated. The chargesheet, submitted before a local court in Bhiwandi on Friday, names 18 accused, including alleged mastermind Bijendra Gupta, who was previously implicated in an Odisha paper leak, with 16 suspects already arrested and two key accomplices, Ashok Sav and Prakash Misal, remaining absconding as investigations continue. A senior police official said that a supplementary chargesheet will be submitted as further investigation progresses. The racket unravelled a day before the examination scheduled on June 28 after Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone II) Pavan Bansod received a tip-off about three men attempting to sell exam papers to a Bhiwandi resident. Police laid a trap using decoy personnel in the Kongaon area, detained the suspects,
Radha Ashtami 2026: Date, Puja Muhurat, Rituals And Remedies
Radha Ashtami will be observed on Saturday, September 19, 2026. The festival commemorates the appearance of Goddess Radha, who holds a central place in the devotional traditions associated with Lord Krishna. According to the supplied Outlook India article, the Ashtami Tithi begins at around 1:00 PM on September 18 and ends at approximately 3:26 PM [] The post Radha Ashtami 2026: Date, Puja Muhurat, Rituals And Remedies appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
India in touch with Russia over crew of detained tanker near Paradip: MEA
MEA said the Unity oil tanker is stationed near Paradip Port under an Odisha High Court order, with India taking steps for the repatriation of its Russian crew
Odisha government plans 870-Acre Silicon Valley hub in Cuttacks Naraj for semiconductor, IT projects
The State government has received investment proposals worth approximately Rs 23,600 crore and the potential to generate 6,100 employment opportunities, says Odisha CM
Odisha revises schedule for ward delimitation, seat reservation ahead of urban local body polls
Appeals against the provisional notification may be filed before the Housing and Urban Development Department between October 7 and October 21, 2026. The State government will hear and dispose of appeals between October 26-28.
Senior Odisha Official Arrested for Alleged Sexual Misconduct with Junior Colleague
A senior Odisha official was arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a junior female colleague, prompting a police investigation. Senior Odisha Official Arrested for Alleged Sexual Misconduct with Junior Colleague
NIT Rourkela shows indigenous security chip to PM Modi at SEMICON
Rain to intensify in southern, coastal Odisha from Sept 22: IMD
Digital Desk | Cuttack, Sep 19 (IANS) The Odisha T20 League CM Trophy is all set to kick off on Sunday at the iconic Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. Six teams, Keonjhar Miners, Bhubaneswar Tigers, Kataka Panthers, Puri Titans, Rourkela Superstars and Sambalpur Warriors will battle it out for the ultimate glory. The Keonjhar Miners franchise sees its entry into the Odisha T20 League as an opportunity to build more than just a cricket team, with a focus on creating a strong regional identity and providing a platform for young talent from Keonjhar and across Odisha. Speaking about the vision behind the franchise, owner Manish Khemmka said, For us, the Keonjhar Miners is about much more than cricket. Keonjhar has a very strong connection with OCL and with our broader journey in Odisha, and we felt that a sporting franchise was a natural way to deepen that relationship with the region. Cricket has a unique ability to bring people together, create aspirations and give young people a platform to express themselves. Our vision is to build the Keonjhar Miners into a team that the people of Keonjhar and Odisha can genuinely identify with and feel proud of, he further said. Over time, we would like the Miners to represent three things talent, opportunity and a strong regional identity. We are looking at this as a long-term association, not simply as participation in one tournament, he further added. The franchise also believes the Odisha T20 League can play an important role in widening the pathway for young cricketers from districts outside the traditional cricketing centres. I think it is extremely important. One of the biggest strengths of a state-level league is that it creates a structured platform where young cricketers can compete in a professional environment and demonstrate their ability. Odisha has considerable cricketing talent beyond the traditional centres, and leagues like this can help widen the pathway for players from different districts. The OCA has also articulated the objective of creating opportunities for Odishas players and providing a pathway for them to progress to the next level. For us, the opportunity is particularly meaningful because the Keonjhar identity gives us a natural platform to connect with young talent from the region. We want aspiring cricketers to believe that they dont necessarily have to come from one of the traditional cricketing centres to get noticed. If they have the talent, dedication and discipline, there should be a pathway for them, he said. Looking beyond the tournament, the franchise is also keen to develop grassroots programmes and strengthen its engagement with the local community. Our ambition is to build something that lasts beyond the ten days of the tournament. The first step is to establish the Keonjhar Miners as a strong sporting identity and build a genuine connection with our supporters. Over the longer term, we would like to explore grassroots cricket programmes, talent identification camps, coaching initiatives and engagement with schools and local communities in Keonjhar and across Odisha. The objective would be to identify promising young players early and give them access to better coaching, competition and exposure, Khemmka noted. At the same time, we want the fans to feel that this is their team. That means taking the Miners beyond the cricket ground, engaging with communities, involving young people and creating experiences around the team. Ultimately, if a young boy or girl in Keonjhar starts dreaming of playing professional cricket because they saw the Keonjhar Miners, and if the community starts seeing the team as a source of pride for the region, then we would feel that we have achieved something much bigger than winning matches. That is the legacy we would like to build, he concluded.
ISCUF 85th Foundation Day in Bhubaneswar: Cuban Ambassador Juan Carlos Mars
The Indian Society for Cultural Co-operation and Friendship (ISCUF) marked its 85th Foundation Day on Friday with a packed programme at Geetagovinda Sadan in Bhubaneswar, mixing diplomacy, debate and theatre around a single theme: friendship across borders and peace at home. Cubas Ambassador to India, Juan Carlos Marsn, attended as chief guest. ISCUF president Bhanudeb [] The post ISCUF 85th Foundation Day in Bhubaneswar: Cuban Ambassador Juan Carlos Marsn Joins Peace Forum appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Odisha on High Alert: Low Pressure System to Bring Heavy Downpours Starting Sept 22
Stay updated on the latest Odisha weather forecast. A new low-pressure system will bring heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and high winds to Odisha starting September 22. The post Odisha on High Alert: Low Pressure System to Bring Heavy Downpours Starting Sept 22 appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
CM pitches 870-acre Naraj hub as Odishas Silicon Valley
BDA opens Ekamra Residency flat applications, prices disappoint middle class
Foreign Link, Eight-State Hunt: Odisha Minister Says Orangutan Syndicate Will Take Time to Uproot
Odisha Forest Minister Ganesh Ram SinghKhuntia says a foreign-linked syndicate is behind five baby orangutans found in Balasore. STF and WCCB are probing eight-plus states as the infants fight anaemia at Nandankanan. The post Foreign Link, Eight-State Hunt: Odisha Minister Says Orangutan Syndicate Will Take Time to Uproot appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Junput missile test facility to expand DRDOs trial capability
Revenue board ends 4 decade-long Kuakhai riverbed land dispute
Odisha to Develop Silicon Valley with
Odisha announces plans for a Silicon Valley in Cuttack, attracting 23,600 crore in investments and promising job creation. Odisha to Develop Silicon Valley with 23,600 Crore Investment Proposal
Odisha gave nod to industrial projects worth nearly Rs 10,00,000 crore since BJP govt assumed office
Revenue Board caps office audits at 20 days, bars auditors from home districts
Sr OAS officer detained for 'raping' junior colleague
Odisha Posts Newly Promoted IAS Officers in Panchayati Raj, Forests and Labour
Odisha government issues notification dated 18 September 2026 posting newly promoted IAS officers including Surya Narayan Dash and Soudamini Sethi as Joint Secretaries in Panchayati Raj & Drinking Water Department. The post Odisha Posts Newly Promoted IAS Officers in Panchayati Raj, Forests and Labour appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Barabati to host Odisha T20 league from Sunday
STF faces mobile network maze in orangutan trafficking probe
Utkal univ orders probe into paper leak allegation
Distress Migration: Can Industrialisation Be the Panacea?
When a dozen women workers from Keonjhar died because of an ammonia gas leak inside a seafood processing factory in Tamil Nadu in June, the sad side of migrants lives came to the fore yet again. For Odisha, this was certainly disturbing news. But it wasnt something new. Be it the brutal chopping off of [] The post Distress Migration: Can Industrialisation Be the Panacea? appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Odisha unveils Silicon Valley, gets 23,600 cr semiconductor proposals
The proposed 870-acre Silicon Valley at Naraj will serve as a dedicated semiconductor, electronics and IT hub as Odisha seeks to build an integrated ecosystem
Govt orders probe after audit flagged 2400 dead workers claimed ration in Odisha
West Bengals rival Trinamool factions receive new names and symbols, alongside controversies over bureaucratic discrimination, a massive welfare scam in Odisha, and diplomatic talks with Bangladesh. More about all this in todays above the fold episode.
West Bengals rival Trinamool factions receive new names and symbols, alongside controversies over bureaucratic discrimination, a massive welfare scam in Odisha, and diplomatic talks with Bangladesh. More about all this in todays above the fold episode.
Traffic Advisory for Bhubaneswar Ahead of Odisha Assembly
In view of security concerns and to ensure smooth traffic movement during the upcoming 7th Session of the 17th Odisha Legislative Assembly, the Bhubaneswar-Kataka Police Commissionerate has issued a public notice detailing specific traffic diversions around the State Assembly and nearby areas. The session is scheduled to run from September 22, 2026, to October 3, [] The post Traffic Advisory for Bhubaneswar Ahead of Odisha Assemblys 7th Session appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Jajpur: Youth Found Dead in Vyasanagar Drain
Mystery surrounds the death of an unidentified young man whose body was recovered from a roadside drain near Sai Temple in Jajpurs Vyasanagar on Friday. According to reports, residents first noticed the youth lying motionless inside the drain near the temple. They immediately alerted both the local fire services personnel and the police. Upon receiving [] The post Jajpur: Youth Found Dead in Vyasanagar Drain appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Milan Pradhan Arrested Hours After Mamata Backs Congress Candidate In Nandigram Bypoll: Reports
Congress candidate Milan Pradhan was arrested in West Bengal on Friday in connection with an old alleged murder case, hours after former chief minister Mamata Banerjee announced that her faction would support his candidature in the October 6 Nandigram Assembly bypoll. The arrest triggered a fresh political controversy in West Bengal, with Congress leaders questioning [] The post Milan Pradhan Arrested Hours After Mamata Backs Congress Candidate In Nandigram Bypoll: Reports appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Odisha to set up Silicon Valley as part of ISM: CM Majhi
The State has already received investment proposals worth over 30,000 crore, he said at Semicon India 2026
HC seeks speaker's reply on BJD pleas over MLAs cross-voting
1 Dead, 2 Critically Injured in Lightning Strikes Across Ganjam
Tragic incidents unfolded across Ganjam district on Friday afternoon as lightning strikes claimed the life of a 62-year-old man and left two others critically injured in separate occurrences under Kabisuryanagar and Hinjili police limits. The deceased has been identified as Nityananda Gouda (62) of Mahachhai village under Kabisuryanagar police station. The injured have been identified [] The post 1 Dead, 2 Critically Injured in Lightning Strikes Across Ganjam appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
IPL 20th Edition 2027: BCCI Plans Grand Celebrations, Re-Elects Governing Council Members
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to mark its 20th edition in 2027, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced plans for celebrations on a grand scale. The decision was taken at the BCCIs 95th Annual General Meeting, held at the boards headquarters in Mumbai on Friday, September 18. [] The post IPL 20th Edition 2027: BCCI Plans Grand Celebrations, Re-Elects Governing Council Members appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Rahul Gandhi Speaks To Mamata Banerjee After ECI Freezes TMC Name, Symbol
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi spoke with former West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday after the Election Commission of India (ECI) froze the All India Trinamool Congress name and its traditional Flowers and Grass symbol ahead of the upcoming state bypolls. Banerjee later said that she and Gandhi discussed working together against the BJP. [] The post Rahul Gandhi Speaks To Mamata Banerjee After ECI Freezes TMC Name, Symbol appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Odisha govt, SBI sign MoU to strengthen digital payment infrastructure in ULBs
Digital Desk | Bhubaneswar, Sep 18 (IANS) Odisha Housing and Urban Development (H&UD) Department on Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the State Bank of India (SBI), through its payment aggregator service SBIePay, to strengthen digital payment infrastructure and facilitate seamless, secure and citizen-centric payment services across Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in the state through the SUJOG platform. According to an official statement, under the partnership, citizens will be able to make online payments for various municipal services, taxes, fees and utility charges through the SUJOG platform using a wide range of digital payment options. These include RuPay, Visa, MasterCard, Maestro and AMEX cards, internet banking, mobile banking/IMPS, UPI, UPI-RCC (RuPay Credit Card), UPI-CL (Credit Line) and digital wallets. The H&UD Department also asserted that the initiative is aimed at making public payments more convenient and accessible while reducing the need for citizens to visit municipal offices for routine transactions. The integration will also contribute to greater transparency, efficiency and ease of transactions in urban governance. It noted that a key feature of the payment framework is the seamless settlement of collections. Payments received through the gateway will be settled directly into the designated bank accounts of the respective ULBs on a T+1 business-day basis. Unique transaction identifiers will facilitate transparent accounting, reconciliation and tracking of collections across ULBs. The system will also provide mechanisms for exception handling, Management Information System (MIS)-based reconciliation, refunds and chargeback management. These processes will be supported by a turnaround time (TAT) of seven calendar days, further strengthening transparency and enhancing citizen confidence in digital payment services. Speaking on the occasion, H&UD department Additional Chief Secretary, Usha Padhee, thanked the SBI for extending its support and helping hand in strengthening the SUJOG platform. She said that the collaboration will help the Department further enhance the efficiency, convenience and accessibility of citizen services through digital means. Rakesh Yadav, Chief General Manager of SBI Odisha Circle, assured that the Bank would extend all possible support and cooperation to make the initiative successful and further strengthen the digital payment ecosystem under SUJOG. The department told that by integrating a comprehensive and secure payment gateway with municipal service delivery, it aims to make the payment of urban taxes, fees and utility charges faster, simpler, safer and more accessible for citizens across the state.
Alleged UG Question Paper Leak: Utkal University Approaches Police, Orders High-Level Probe
Taking strong exception to reports of an alleged question paper leak circulating across social media, Utkal University authorities have formally filed a complaint with the police to investigate the authenticity of the claims and trace the culprits involved. The controversy surrounds the ongoing Plus Three (+3) Undergraduate 2nd Semester examinations. Reports indicate that snapshots of [] The post Alleged UG Question Paper Leak: Utkal University Approaches Police, Orders High-Level Probe appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Manu Bhaker and Tajinderpal Singh Toor Named India
Indias sporting pride will shine at the Asian Games 2026 opening ceremony as Manu Bhaker and Tajinderpal Singh Toor have been named the countrys flagbearers, representing two of Indias most accomplished athletes from different disciplines. Bhaker, a twotime Olympic medallist, and Toor, a twotime Asian Games gold medallist in shot put, will jointly carry the [] The post Manu Bhaker and Tajinderpal Singh Toor Named Indias FlagBearers for Asian Games 2026 appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
PM Modi, UAE President Discuss West Asia Crisis, Bilateral Ties Over Phone Call
Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a telephone call from UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Friday, with the two leaders discussing developments in West Asia and ways to further strengthen bilateral cooperation. According to the Prime Ministers Office, the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to continued cooperation and coordination aimed at promoting peace, [] The post PM Modi, UAE President Discuss West Asia Crisis, Bilateral Ties Over Phone Call appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Odisha approves Rs 452 Cr integrated power electronics hub at IIT Bhubaneswar
Odisha has approved a 452-crore National Industry Co-Development Hub on Integrated Power Electronics at IIT Bhubaneswar, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said at SEMICON India 2026 in New Delhi on Friday. The project will be developed under the Indian Design, Semiconductors, Packaging and Systems
Aishwarya Rai Set To Walk Paris Fashion Week 2026 Runway For L
Aishwarya Rai is set to return to the Paris Fashion Week runway for LOral Paris on September 28, continuing her long association with the beauty brand. The actor and longtime LOral Paris ambassador will walk the ninth edition of Le Dfil LOral Paris, with this years open-air show scheduled at Place Joffre, in front of [] The post Aishwarya Rai Set To Walk Paris Fashion Week 2026 Runway For LOral Paris appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Debagada Youth Murdered at Girlfriend
In a major breakthrough in the gruesome murder of a youth at his girlfriends house, Riamal police conducted a crime scene recreation on Friday under tight security. The prime accused, Narottam Behera, was taken to the spot in Riamal to demonstrate how he allegedly bludgeoned Silu Ray to death with an iron rod before setting [] The post Debagada Youth Murdered at Girlfriends House: Police Recreate Crime Scene with Accused appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
FSSAI Initiates Legal Action Against Nestle India Over Infant Nutrition Claims and Quality Issues
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has initiated legal proceedings against Nestle India involving three of its popular infant nutrition products. The move follows an examination of infant foods and their promotional materials available on e-commerce platforms, which revealed non-compliance with regulatory standards. The food safety regulator has filed three separate adjudication [] The post FSSAI Initiates Legal Action Against Nestle India Over Infant Nutrition Claims and Quality Issues appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Bengal: Maoist leader remanded to police custody till Sep 29
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 18 (IANS) A lower court remanded senior CPI (Maoist) leader Asim Mandal, alias Akash, Timir and Manoj to police custody until September 29 on Friday. He was arrested on Thursday by the Special Task Force (STF) of Kolkata from Patashpur in East Midnapore district After being presented in court, counsel for the Kolkata Police STF told the court that there were 55 cases against Akash in West Bengal, Jharkhand and Odisha. The Jharkhand and Odisha governments had announced a reward of Rs 2.2 crore. Akash is an active member of a banned organisation. His activities harmed the sovereignty and integrity of the state. He was also responsible for creating a cycle of illegal activities and sabotage involving the three states. He used to hide himself by frequently changing names, the STF counsel told the court. No bail application was moved on behalf of Akash. His counsel, Yasin Rahman, told the court that accusations of sabotage had been made against Akash for decades. However, many people involved in this force before 2011 have since become heroes in society and mainstream political figures. Akashs arrest is being viewed as a significant success for security agencies and a major setback to Maoist activities in the tribal and forested regions spread across the three eastern states. A native of Fulchak village under Chandrakona Police Station in West Midnapore district, Mandal is said to have become involved in Left-Wing extremist activities during his student years in the 1980s. He later joined the Peoples War Group and worked extensively in the Sarenga and Goaltor regions of West Bengal as well as the Gurabanda area of Jharkhands East Singhbhum district. Security agencies records show that nearly 55 serious criminal cases are registered against him across Jharkhand, Odisha and West Bengal. Several of these cases relate to attacks on security forces and armed encounters in Jharkhand. Following the formation of CPI (Maoist) in September 2004, he returned to the Jangalmahal region spanning parts of Bankura, Purulia and West Midnapore districts. He became actively involved in the outfits activities. He also played a key role during the Lalgarh movement, after which he was entrusted with the responsibility of Secretary of the West Bengal State Committee in 2010. He later held important positions in the Bengal-Jharkhand-Odisha Regional Committee. According to police sources, the Maoist network in West Bengal suffered a major setback after the November 2011 encounter killing of senior Maoist leader Kishanji. Thereafter, Mandal is said to have gone completely underground and remained elusive for years until his arrest on Thursday.
BDA Opens Online Applications for 496 Ekamra Residency Apartments
The Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) has officially launched the online application process for prospective homebuyers seeking allotment in its flagship residential project, Ekamra Residency, located at Subudhipur. The application window is open through October 31, offering citizens an opportunity to secure modern housing within the capital city. Spread across approximately 7.34 acres, Ekamra Residency has [] The post BDA Opens Online Applications for 496 Ekamra Residency Apartments appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
3 siblings arrested for duping man of Rs 25 lakh
Shopkeepers' interest should be protected: Naveen
Odisha Issues Revised Schedule for Civic Body Ward Delimitation and Seat Reservation
The Housing and Urban Development Department of Odisha has officially released a revised schedule for the ward delimitation and seat reservation processes ahead of the upcoming general elections to Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), including Municipalities, Notified Area Councils (NACs), and Municipal Corporations. The updated timeline, which modifies previous directives, has been communicated to all District [] The post Odisha Issues Revised Schedule for Civic Body Ward Delimitation and Seat Reservation appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
CM Majhi Pitches Odisha As Semiconductor Hub, Cites Rs 10,899-cr Pipeline
From mines to minds, Odisha emerging as chip-and-data frontier
Vaishnaw hails Odisha at SEMICON 2026, says state has immense potential, 871-acre park planned
Leopard Skin Smuggling Plot Foiled in Kandhamala; One Held
A joint operation by the Forest Department and local police foiled a wildlife trafficking attempt near the Baliguda bus stand, resulting in the arrest of one individual and the seizure of two leopard hides. The suspect has been identified as Uttam Majhi from Ratanga village under the Phiringia police jurisdiction. Acting upon specific intelligence regarding [] The post Leopard Skin Smuggling Plot Foiled in Kandhamala; One Held appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
8-Year-Old Boy Dies as Diarrhoea Outbreaks in Nabarangpur
Fear and panic hit Kendughat village in Nabarangpurs Umerkote after an outbreak of fever and diarrhoea killed an 8-year-old child and sickened several residents. According to information, the outbreak spread rapidly across households, killing an 8-year-old boy and forcing several symptomatic residents to be rushed to the nearby Pujariguda Community Health Centre (CHC) for urgent [] The post 8-Year-Old Boy Dies as Diarrhoea Outbreaks in Nabarangpur appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
People of Purpose: Shaifalika Panda BIPF
Shaifalika Pandas BIPF journey shows how trust, community ownership and local solutions can create lasting social change across Odisha.
Naveen Patnaik seeks protection of common man, small traders amid UPI MDR row
Digital Desk | Bhubaneswar, Sep 18 (IANS) Odisha Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) President Naveen Patnaik on Friday raised concerns over the recently announced 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on certain Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions above Rs 2,000, stating that the interests of the common man and small traders such as shopkeepers must be protected. Patnaik made the remarks while responding to media queries on the controversy surrounding charges on UPI transactions upon his arrival at the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar. Earlier, the Odisha Congress had strongly criticised the Union government over the issue, comparing the 0.4 per cent MDR on UPI transactions with the historic Jizya tax. On Thursday, senior Congress leader Sonali Sahoo alleged at a press conference that the central government had been resorting to various tactics to extract money from poor workers, labourers and the working class for the past 12 years. She argued that taxing UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 added insult to injury for a public already struggling under rising inflation. Sahoo claimed that since the UPI system was creating obstacles to the interests of American companies such as Google Pay, Paytm, Amazon, Visa Card and ATM services, these companies raised the issue with the United States Trade Representative (USTR). She alleged that pressure was exerted on the Indian government to scrap the free UPI transaction system and impose charges on transactions above $25. Notably, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) recently announced a 0.4 per cent charge. In an attempt to clear confusion, the Finance Ministry issued an explainer on Tuesday, clarifying that the new UPI framework has no impact on person-to-person transactions, which will continue to remain completely free irrespective of the amount transferred. Payments to merchants up to Rs 2,000, along with transactions covered under the zero-MDR framework for small merchants, will also remain free. Consequently, approximately 96 per cent of all person-to-merchant transactions will remain unaffected. MDR will apply only to specified merchant transactions above Rs 2,000.
In a major milestone for regional cinema, the Marathi psychological thriller Gondhal has been chosen as Indias official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 99th Academy Awards, the Film Federation of India (FFI) announced on Friday. Directed and written by filmmaker Santosh Davakhar, the movie explores deep-seated tensions, human vulnerability, and [] The post Marathi Thriller Gondhal Selected as Indias Official Entry for Oscars 2027 appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Odisha Braces for Week-Long Heavy Rain as New Low-Pressure System Approaches
According to the Meteorological Centre of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Bhubaneswar, Odisha is set to experience widespread rainfall throughout the coming week. An upper-air cyclonic circulation over North Thailand is expected to move into the North Andaman Sea by Saturday morning, triggering the formation of a low-pressure area by the evening of September [] The post Odisha Braces for Week-Long Heavy Rain as New Low-Pressure System Approaches appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Three Siblings Arrested in Sambalpur Over Rs 25 Lakh Cyber Fraud
Sambalpur Cyber Police have arrested two sisters and their brother for allegedly defrauding a bank official of Rs 25 lakh using a fake Facebook identity and promising to double his money. The arrested suspects have been identified as Rajkumari Badi (24), Jharana Badi (32), and their brother Rajesh Badi (38). Originally natives of Babupada in [] The post Three Siblings Arrested in Sambalpur Over Rs 25 Lakh Cyber Fraud appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
NTA Declares UGC NET 2026 Re-test Results
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially declared the UGC NET Result 2026 for the English, Commerce, and Sociology re-test papers. Candidates who appeared for these three subject examinations can now access and download their scorecards from the official website at ugcnet.nta.nic.in. The re-test for English, Commerce, and Sociology was conducted on September 9 and [] The post NTA Declares UGC NET 2026 Re-test Results appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Odisha Pavilion Inaugurated at Yashobhoomi Showcasing Semiconductor Vision
Chief Minister Mohan Majhi inaugurated the Odisha Pavilion at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi, in the presence of Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. The pavilion brings Odishas semiconductor proposition to the forefront, showcasing key projects, policy incentives, infrastructure, and investment opportunities across semiconductor manufacturing, advanced packaging, chip design, and electronics. Honble Chief Minister Shri @MohanMOdisha inaugurated the Odisha [] The post Odisha Pavilion Inaugurated at Yashobhoomi Showcasing Semiconductor Vision appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
CM Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurates Odisha stall at SEMICON India 2026
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Fire Breaks Out at Balangir Post Office, Quick Action Averts Major Mishap
A major disaster was avoided on Friday when postal staff quickly controlled a fire in the Kantabanji Post Office strongroom before significant damage occurred. Upon noticing the fire, Postmaster Bikram Singh Dandasena, along with staff member Nabin Boye and others, immediately raised the alarm. Without delay, they utilised the offices fire extinguishers to douse the [] The post Fire Breaks Out at Balangir Post Office, Quick Action Averts Major Mishap appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Over 2,400 dead workers authenticated Aadhaar, claimed ration in Odisha
Surendra Koli, Acquitted in Nithari Killings Case, Dies by Suicide in Haridwar
Surendra Koli, who was acquitted by the Supreme Court in connection with the notorious 20052006 Nithari serial killings, died by suicide by hanging on Friday, according to local police. Following his complete acquittal in November 2025, Koli had relocated to Haridwar, Uttarakhand, where he had been running a tea stall over the past few days. [] The post Surendra Koli, Acquitted in Nithari Killings Case, Dies by Suicide in Haridwar appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Transport Dept Additional Secretary Detained After Assault Allegation in Bhubaneswar
In a dramatic latenight development, Arun Biswal, Additional Secretary of the Transport Department, was detained at Kharavel Nagar police station following allegations of misconduct and assault. According to police sources, Biswal allegedly entered a womans residence at midnight and created a disturbance. The complainant, identified as an office steno, accused him of rape and misbehaviour, [] The post Transport Dept Additional Secretary Detained After Assault Allegation in Bhubaneswar appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
NIT Rourkela Chip Puts Odisha On Indias Semiconductor Map
A security chip presented to Prime Minister Narendra Modi; the chip showcased by NIT-R, ASCON AEAD Security Chip (C2S0091), has been designed by Mohanty under the supervision of Prof. Ayas Kanta Swain and Prof. Kamalakanta Mahapatra. It is a lightweight cryptographic chip aimed at providing secure data encryption and authentication for resource-constrained Internet of Things (IoT) devices and embedded systems
Pradyumna Bal Prativa Vikash Pratiyogita Kicks Off; Free Entry for School
To commemorate the birth anniversary (November 8) of Pragativadi founder, value-based politician, and fearless editor Pradyumna Kishore Bal, the annual Pradyumna Bal Prativa Vikash Pratiyogita has officially commenced. Designed to foster intellectual and creative talent, the competition is open to students ranging from primary school to university levels across Odisha. The month-long competition runs from [] The post Pradyumna Bal Prativa Vikash Pratiyogita Kicks Off; Free Entry for School & University Students appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Why People Queue Overnight For iPhone 18 Pro Despite Fast Home Delivery
The iPhone 18 Pro can be ordered online and delivered to a customers doorstep within minutes in some locations. Yet, on launch day, people still chose to spend the night outside Apple Stores in cities such as Bengaluru, Mumbai and Delhi. For some buyers, the wait is not simply about securing a phone. It has [] The post Why People Queue Overnight For iPhone 18 Pro Despite Fast Home Delivery appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Seasons first cyclone may form over Andaman Sea; heavy rain in Andhra Pradesh from September 19
IMD says the system is likely to move towards the south Odisha-north Andhra Pradesh coasts; weather models point to a landfall near Odisha around September 21
Midnight Mix-Up At Asian Games: Pranati Nayak, Male Coach Given Same Room in Allocation Fiasco
Indian gymnast Pranati Nayak and her coach Ashok Mishra faced a late-night accommodation mix-up after they were reportedly assigned the same room at the Asian Games accommodation in Nagoya, Japan. The incident added to a series of logistical challenges faced by members of the Indian contingent ahead of the 2026 Asian Games, which begin on [] The post Midnight Mix-Up At Asian Games: Pranati Nayak, Male Coach Given Same Room in Allocation Fiasco appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
15-Year Hunt Ends: Rs 1-Cr Reward Maoist Commander Asim Mandal Arrested in West Bengal
West Bengal Police arrested Asim Mandal, alias Akash, the last surviving central committee member of CPI (Maoist), from Polerhat on Kolkatas eastern fringes Thursday afternoon. Mandal, 64, had evaded law enforcement for over 15 years across interstate forest belts. He faces 17 cases in Jharkhand and a dozen in West Bengal, and carried a Rs [] The post 15-Year Hunt Ends: Rs 1-Cr Reward Maoist Commander Asim Mandal Arrested in West Bengal appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
UPI Charges Above Rs 2000: Govt To Ensure Consumers Don
The government is preparing a monitoring mechanism to ensure that the new Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on select UPI transactions above Rs 2,000 is not passed on to consumers. The development comes after the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), which operates the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), issued a circular on September 15 introducing MDR [] The post UPI Charges Above Rs 2000: Govt To Ensure Consumers Dont Pay appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Lakhana School Mismanagement: NHRC Takes Cognisance, Nuapada Collector Orders Joint Probe
Following a media report by Pragativadi highlighting severe infrastructure deficits and a lack of teaching staff at the Lakhana village school, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has officially taken cognisance of the issue. A formal case (Case No. 899/18/30/2026) has been registered with the rights panel regarding the safety, education, and overall well-being of [] The post Lakhana School Mismanagement: NHRC Takes Cognisance, Nuapada Collector Orders Joint Probe appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
iPhone 18 Pro Craze: Man Sells Gold To Gift Wife New iPhone
The launch of the iPhone 18 Pro in India has triggered long queues outside Apple stores, with enthusiastic buyers arriving hours before outlets opened to get their hands on the latest iPhone. At Apples store at DLF Mall of India in Noida, India Today Tech spoke to several customers waiting for the new device. Among [] The post iPhone 18 Pro Craze: Man Sells Gold To Gift Wife New iPhone appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Odisha SPCB Celebrates 43rd Foundation Day; Focuses on Innovation and Sustainability
The State Pollution Control Board (SPCB), Odisha, marked its 43rd Foundation Day with a commemorative event held at the OUAT Conference Hall in Bhubaneswar. The celebration convened key policymakers, environmental scientists, and academic leaders to review annual achievements and outline future strategies for environmental protection. Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia, Minister for Forest, Environment & Climate Change, [] The post Odisha SPCB Celebrates 43rd Foundation Day; Focuses on Innovation and Sustainability appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max Now Available In India; Base iPhone 18 Delayed
Apple has officially started selling the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in India, with the latest Pro models available from the companys India online store and its six retail outlets across the country. The new iPhones went on sale on Friday, September 18, giving Indian customers access to Apples latest Pro lineup. [] The post iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max Now Available In India; Base iPhone 18 Delayed appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Vicky Kaushal Unboxes New iPhone 18 At Mumbai Apple Store
Actor Vicky Kaushal was spotted at an Apple Store in Mumbais Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), where he unboxed his new iPhone 18. The actor was seen checking out the latest iPhone at the Apple Store before unboxing the device. His appearance at the store quickly caught the attention of fans and onlookers. Vicky Kaushal Gets [] The post Vicky Kaushal Unboxes New iPhone 18 At Mumbai Apple Store appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
The month-long Seva Sankalp Abhiyan began in Odisha on Prime Minister Narendra Modis 76th birthday with a mega blood donation camp in Bhubaneswar, where 8,810 units of blood were collected, according to the organisers. The camp was organised by the Odisha BJP Yuva Morcha at the IDCO Exhibition Ground in Unit-III as part of the [] The post Odisha BJP Marks PM Modis 76th Birthday with Mass Blood Donation, Collects 8810 Units appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
ED conducts searches at seven locations in Jharkhand and Odisha over alleged JSCB fraud
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ED searches seven locations in Jharkhand, Odisha in Jharkhand State Co-operative Bank scam case
Digital Desk | Ranchi, Sep 18 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate's (ED) Ranchi Zonal Office conducted search and seizure operations at seven locations in Jharkhand and Odisha in connection with its money laundering investigation into the alleged Jharkhand State Co-operative Bank scam, the agency said on Friday. The searches, carried out under Section 17 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), were part of its ongoing probe into what it described as a large-scale fraud allegedly perpetrated against the bank's Seraikela branch. According to the ED, businessman Sanjay Kumar Dalmia allegedly carried out the fraud in connivance with then officials of the JSCB. The agencys search operation covers premises linked to the ongoing investigation into the alleged financial irregularities and suspected proceeds of crime arising from the case. ED, Ranchi, is conducting search and seizure action u/s 17 of PMLA in the case of the Jharkhand State Co-operative Bank Scam at a total of 7 locations in Jharkhand and Odisha, the agency statement said. The agencys latest action comes amid several ongoing investigations being handled by its Ranchi Zonal Office into alleged financial crimes and money laundering in Jharkhand. The ED is empowered under the PMLA to conduct searches and seize material relevant to its investigation. Further details regarding the material recovered during the searches were not immediately available. The ED had also conducted searches in several states in connection with its probe into the petrol bomb attack on the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) office in Ranchi in June this year. The agency had carried out simultaneous searches at four locations in Delhi, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Karnataka as part of its investigation into suspected money laundering and financial transactions allegedly linked to the case. The probe was connected to a case registered by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), according to officials. During those searches, ED teams examined documents, digital devices and other material relating to allegedly suspicious financial transactions. The agency was also examining whether illegal funding or money-laundering channels were used in the planning or execution of the attack. The petrol bomb attack took place on the night of June 16, when petrol bombs were hurled at the RSS provincial headquarters in Ranchis Nivaranpur area. The NIA registered a case in connection with the incident under RC-01/2026/NIA/RNC.
