Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi calls on student leaders to combat negativity and build a prosperous state following successful campus elections. Odisha Chief Minister Urges Student Leaders to Foster Positive Change After Peaceful Campus Elections
BJD files police complaint over deepfake videos targeting senior leader Sujata Rout
Digital Desk | Bhubaneswar, Oct 18 (IANS) The Opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Sunday lodged a complaint for creation and circulation of Al-generated, deepfake and voice-cloned videos 'defaming', 'degrading' and targeting former bureaucrat and senior party leader Sujata Rout Karthikeyan by a social media account on Instagram and Facebook. Strongly condemning the circulation of videos against senior BJD leader, the party demanded in its complaint the registration of an FIR in the matter, a thorough investigation and strict legal action against those responsible. The complaint was submitted by BJD leader Amrita Mishra at Capital Police Station in Bhubaneswar against the unknown operators of the social media account Odianka Chhata on Instagram and Facebook. According to the complaint, videos allegedly uploaded on October 18 used artificial intelligence and voice-cloning technology to circulate fabricated content. One such video allegedly portrayed Sujata Rout Karthikeyan threatening the Principal of Kendrapara Autonomous College in connection with student union elections. The said content is entirely fabricated and has been manufactured with the sole intent to mislead the public, create discord, and lower the dignity and reputation of Sujata Rout Karthikeyan in the eyes of the public, as she belongs to the district of Kendrapara. The said content is solely created to politicise the matter as BJD has won in almost all colleges of Kendrapara, Mishra alleged in the complaint. The party urged the police to immediately identify those operating the accounts, preserve the digital evidence and conduct a forensic examination of the content to establish its authenticity and trace those involved. The complaint also sought steps to obtain relevant information from Meta Platforms, which owns Facebook and Instagram, through lawful procedures. The party urged the police to take necessary measures to prevent further circulation of the allegedly defamatory material. The BJD alleged that the misuse of artificial intelligence to fabricate statements, malign a woman leader and mislead the public was a serious matter requiring immediate intervention. It called for an impartial investigation and accountability under the law. The party demanded strict action against all persons found involved in creating, uploading or circulating the alleged deepfake content. The development comes amid heightened political activity following the student union elections held across Odisha on October 15.
Conjoined Twins With 2 Heads, 1 Torso Die Week After Birth At Odisha Hospital
Dicephalic parapagus is a rare form of conjoined twinning in which two heads share a single body. Such cases occur in approximately one in every 3 lakh births, and the chances of survival are very low.
The festive fervor of Durga Puja is at its peak across the capital city and the entire state, with Maha Ashtami being celebrated with immense grandeur and devotion. On this auspicious day, Goddess Durga manifested in her serene and radiant Mahagauri form, drawing an overwhelming multitude of devotees to various puja mandaps and shakti peethas [] The post Maha Ashtami Celebrations Peak in Bhubaneswar: Devotees Flock in Thousands for Mahagauri Darshan and Sandhi Puja appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Brajmohan Ram takes oath as Odisha governor
Odisha vigilance sleuths arrest clerk, 2 aides for Rs 65.9 lakh embezzlement
Injured tusker dies amid alleged delay in treatment
Tusker herd disrupts train services on Howrah-Mum line in Rourkela
Rare conjoined twins born with 2 heads & 1 torso die
Odisha CM hails peaceful campus polls, urges student leaders to counter baseless propaganda
Digital Desk | Bhubaneswar, Oct 18 (IANS) Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday called upon student leaders who emerged victorious in the recent campus polls held across colleges and universities in Odisha to play a key role in building a prosperous and developed state by countering negative propaganda by disruptive forces with positive messages. The Chief Minister made the call while attending a grand ceremony, Young Leaders Conclave, organised at the Kataka Indoor Stadium on Sunday. Majhi met the student leaders and congratulated the representatives who secured landslide victories in the students union elections held on October 15. Targeting the previous Biju Janata Dal-led state government, the CM wrote in a post on X following the event, The previous government had kept the elections suspended for nearly a decade since 2017, completely putting the democratic process on campuses on hold. Majhi also pointed out that the top leaders of the then ruling party, who had begun their political careers through student movements, as well as the then Higher Education Minister, remained silent and did not raise their voices against their own leaders decision, despite their background in student politics. When we resolved to hold the elections, pressure was exerted on us to postpone the polls by citing misleading information such as the atmosphere in the country is not favourable or Gen Z is unhappy. However, we fulfilled our promise and successfully conducted the elections across the state in an extremely peaceful and orderly manner, said CM Majhi. He said the student community delivered a fitting reply to the previous regime by conducting peaceful polls, proving that campus violence was merely a dark chapter of the past. Above all, the historic victory of the ABVP in Odisha, just as in Delhi University, has proved that the youth stand with Modi jis development policies, the CM added. While advising the student leaders, he said that this victory is not a matter of arrogance, but the beginning of an important duty. Being a leader does not mean limiting oneself to politics; it also means working to resolve the problems faced by ordinary students in areas such as education, hostels and sports, while acting as a bridge to ensure that the benefits of government welfare schemes reach every student, the Chief Minister noted. He also advised the student leaders to coordinate with college authorities to keep campuses free from violence and substance abuse. I call upon all young representatives to play a leading role in building a prosperous and developed Odisha by countering, through positive messages, the baseless propaganda of disruptive forces attempting to weaken the countrys constitutional system, and by upholding the ideals of Knowledge, Character and Unity, the Chief Minister stated.
Koradakanta Durga Puja blends myth, heritage, community spirit
International Wildlife Racket Hits Odisha: STF Clueless as Orangutan Smuggling Investigation Stalls
A month after the dramatic rescue of five baby orangutans from the Bichitrapur mangrove forest in Balasore district, the Special Task Force (STF) of the Odisha Crime Branch appears to have hit a wall. Despite initial momentum, the investigation spanning Odisha and West Bengal has ground to a halt, raising concerns that the state is [] The post International Wildlife Racket Hits Odisha: STF Clueless as Orangutan Smuggling Investigation Stalls appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Twin Cities Abuzz as Politics and Festive Security Converge at Durga Puja Mandaps
Following heated student union election campaigns, Odishas political landscape has shifted directly to Durga Puja mandaps. With municipal elections on the horizon, leaders across party linesincluding Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Opposition Leader Naveen Patnaik, and PCC Presidentare visiting pandals across Bhubaneswar and Cuttack to connect with voters. While the ruling BJP looks to consolidate [] The post Twin Cities Abuzz as Politics and Festive Security Converge at Durga Puja Mandaps appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
ORIOZ celebrates Odia culture in Sydney
170 students, lecturers complete vocational training
Berhampur police deploy extra forces to manage Durga Puja crowds
Tribal women turn entrepreneurs with homestay model expansion near Debrigarh
36 Platoons Deployed: IG Central Range Reviews Durga Puja Security Across 1,243 Pandals
IG Central Range Dr. Satyajit Naik reviews Durga Puja security across 1,243 pandals in Odisha. 36 police platoons deployed to ensure safety, traffic control, and crowd management. The post 36 Platoons Deployed: IG Central Range Reviews Durga Puja Security Across 1,243 Pandals appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
BMC repairs stretch from Sandha Chowk to Patia Stn Road
Two Youths Die of Electrocution While Working on TV Cable in Puri
A routine cable-repair job turned fatal this afternoon in the Baliapanda police station area of Puri city when two young men were electrocuted after the TV cable they were fixing came into contact with an 11 kV power line. The deceased have been identified as Bapi Pradhan and Subrat Sahu. One of them hailed from [] The post Two Youths Die of Electrocution While Working on TV Cable in Puris Baliapanda appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
BJD Files Police Complaint Over AI Deepfake Videos Targeting Sujata Rout Karthikeyan
Biju Janata Dal (BJD) today filed a formal complaint at the Capital Police Station in Bhubaneswar seeking registration of an FIR against the operators of the social media account Odianka Chhata on Instagram and Facebook. The complaint alleges that the account circulated AI-generated deepfake and voice-cloned videos targeting senior leader Sujata Rout Karthikeyan and other [] The post BJD Files Police Complaint Over AI Deepfake Videos Targeting Sujata Rout Karthikeyan appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik has extended warm Durga Puja and Dussehra greetings to the people of Odisha, describing the festival as a powerful reminder of the victory of truth and justice over falsehood and oppression. In a video message, Patnaik said the celebrations convey the message of victory of truth and justice over falsehood [] The post Naveen Patnaik Extends Durga Puja and Dussehra Greetings, Calls Struggle Against Injustice the Highest Form of Worship appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Young Leaders Conclave 2026: CM Majhi Urges New Student Unions to Build Drug-Free Campuses
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday addressed newly elected student union representatives at the Kataka Indoor Stadium during the Young Leaders Conclave 2026, describing the return of campus elections after nearly a decade as a clear triumph of democratic faith over fear. Speaking to the gathering of young leaders, CM Majhi noted that [] The post Young Leaders Conclave 2026: CM Majhi Urges New Student Unions to Build Drug-Free Campuses appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Saptami fervour grips city as theme pandals draw crowds
BMC activates 39 parking lots, puts up info on website to handle festive rush
Brij Mohan Ram Sworn in as Odisha Governor Amid Celebrations
Brij Mohan Ram takes oath as Odishas new governor, receiving warm congratulations from family and party leaders. Brij Mohan Ram Sworn in as Odisha Governor Amid Celebrations
India Women Restrict Zimbabwe to 102/8 in 2nd T20I in Raipur
India Women produced a clinical bowling performance to restrict Zimbabwe Women to 102/8 in their allotted 20 overs in the second T20 International at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium on Sunday. India now require 103 runs to secure victory and strengthen their position in the series. After being put under pressure by a [] The post India Women Restrict Zimbabwe to 102/8 in 2nd T20I in Raipur appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
HC to consider BJD chief whips plea on MLAs disqualification afresh
Bollywood actor Tiger Shroff narrowly escaped harm after unidentified assailants allegedly opened fire on his vehicle in Mumbais Juhu area on Sunday. Police have launched an intensive manhunt to trace those behind the attack. According to reports, three rounds were fired at the actors BMW while he was returning home after a football session. Although [] The post Shots Fired at Tiger Shroffs Car in Mumbai; Actor Escapes Unhurt appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Ranji Trophy: Sachin, Azharuddeen rescue Kerala on opening day
The former hits his 16th First Class hundred while the latter remains unbeaten on 72 as the two add 141 for the sixth wicket; Odisha medium-pacers exploit the seamer-friendly conditions early on
Dhoolpet police seizes 32 kgs of ganja worth Rs 16L, arrests 1
Hyderabad: The Dhoolpet Excise police seized 32 kg of ganja, valued at an estimated Rs 16 lakh, while it was being transported from Odisha to Hyderabad, and arrested a man in connection with the case. The accused, Saketh Babu, was allegedly carrying the contraband on a scooter to Mangar Basti when a team led by 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 .
Ranji Trophy: Saharan Ton Overshadows Gill's Return, Rinku, Arya, Badoni Hit Centuries
Skipper Uday Saharan: Skipper Uday Saharan struck an unbeaten century to rescue Punjab after Shubman Gill's return to the Ranji Trophy lasted just five balls, while Rinku Singh, Priyansh Arya and Ayush Badoni also notched up hundreds on day one of the second round of the prestigious competition on Sunday. In the Elite Group B clash at the new PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh, Saharan's unbeaten 106, laced with 13 fours, lifted Punjab to 269/4 against Chhattisgarh. Rinku's 118 not out, coming off 186 balls and laced with 11 fours and two sixes, pulled Uttar Pradesh out of trouble to 202 Goa, before the latter reached 43/0 in 12 overs. Arya, playing his first game of the season, fell one run short of a maiden double hundred in first-class cricket, while captain Badoni hit 115 not out to put Delhi in command by taking them to 381/4 against Gujarat. Saharan, who captained India to runners-up finish in the 2024 Mens U19 World Cup, used the sweep and the slog sweep to good effect against Chhattisgarh's left-arm spin pair of Dharmendrasinh Jadeja and Ajay Mandal. Openers Vihaan Malhotra (40 off 77 balls) and Harnoor Pannu put on another half-century stand to see off the new ball, before the duo were trapped lbw by Jadeja and Mandal respectively. Gill, playing his first Ranji game of the season before departing for India's tour of New Zealand, came in at number four but fell for one. Mandal drew him forward and beat him through the gate to knock back the stumps. Saharan and Prabhsimran Singh (62 off 133 balls) then rebuilt the innings with a 130-run stand for the fourth wicket. Though Prabhsimran was trapped lbw by Jadeja before tea break arrived, Saharan marched forward to bring up his third first-class hundred off 168 balls. Wicketkeeper-batter Salil Arora (38 not out off 75 balls) ensured Punjab added 71 runs in the final session without further loss. In Elite Group A game at Green Park in Kanpur, Rinku hit his 11th first-class century, his second in successive games this season, to single-handedly drag Uttar Pradesh from 137/9 to 202 against Goa. At Reliance Stadium in Vadodara, Raj Limbani's four-wicket haul helped Baroda bowl out Bihar for 166, before they reached 77/3. At Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium in Srinagar, debutant Kawalpreet Singh fell four runs short of a century but rescued defending champions Jammu and Kashmir, who were all out for 260 in 82.5 overs against Vidarbha. Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh's pacers bowled out Puducherry for 177, with the former finishing on 23/ 2 at stumps. In Elite Group B, a maiden fifty from Manvanth Kumar led a lower-order fightback for Karnataka, who reached 281/8 after birthday boy Jaydev Unadkat and Chetan Sakariya had made early inroads for Saurashtra in Alur. Sibsankar Roy's half-century steered Assam to 228/6 against Tripura, while Andhra spinners Saurabh Kumar and T Vijay bowled out Hyderabad for 275. Andhra were 9 for no loss at stumps and trail by 266 runs. In Elite Group C, without veteran pacer Mohammed Shami, Bengal were bowled out for 184 by Services, but the visitors came back to leave the hosts at 83/5. Sachin Baby's unbeaten 112 rescued Kerala, who reached 245/6 against Odisha. Left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Vicky Ostwal's four-wicket haul helped Maharashtra dismiss Jharkhand for 169, with the hosts reaching 85/3 at stumps at Pune. In Elite Group D, Mumbai bowled out Himachal Pradesh for 140 at Bilaspur and were 107/2 at stumps, and trail by just 33 runs. At the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, left-arm pacer Gurjapneet Singh (4-34) and left-arm spinner and captain R Sai Kishore (4-40) shared eight wickets as Tamil Nadu bowled out Uttarakhand for 134 in 56.2 overs. Avneesh Sudha top-scored for Uttarakhand with 54 off 103 balls, hitting seven fours, while Mayank Mishra chipped in with a patient 33 off 114 deliveries, including hitting a four and two sixes. In reply, Tamil Nadu reached 85/2 in 27 overs at stumps and trail by 49 runs. N Jagadeesan made 37 off 53 balls, while Pradosh Ranjan Paul was unbeaten on 37 off 73 deliveries. Overnight rain in Chennai and a wet outfield delayed the start until 10.30 am, and bad light brought an early end to the day's play at 5.28 pm. Avneesh Sudha top-scored for Uttarakhand with 54 off 103 balls, hitting seven fours, while Mayank Mishra chipped in with a patient 33 off 114 deliveries, including hitting a four and two sixes. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
1800 Arrested in Paris as Cost-of-Living Protests Erupt Into Violent Riots Across France
Paris police confirmed on Sunday that 1,800 individuals were arrested in the capital region alone following a violent escalation during nationwide protests over soaring living costs and deteriorating school conditions. Authorities reported that approximately 550,000 people demonstrated across France, while organisers placed the turnout closer to 800,000. What began as a protest march deteriorated as [] The post 1800 Arrested in Paris as Cost-of-Living Protests Erupt Into Violent Riots Across France appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Ajay Devgns crime thriller Drishyam 3 continues its dominant run at the domestic box office, rebounding strongly on its third Saturday despite facing competition from new releases. Re-emerging as the top choice for moviegoers, the film witnessed a remarkable 61.29% surge in collections on Day 16 compared to the previous day. Drishyam 3 netted Rs [] The post Drishyam 3 Surpasses Hanuman Ansh at Box Office, Emerges as 3rd Highest-Grossing Bollywood Film of 2026 appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Cuttack pandal turns community participation into a green celebration
Shilpa Shinde Wins Hearts as Goddess Sita at Delhi Ramlila
Popular television star and Bigg Boss 11 winner Shilpa Shinde has captured social media attention following her graceful portrayal of Goddess Sita at a prominent Ramlila celebration in Delhi. Performance at Shalimar Bagh Ramlila Dressed in a traditional saffron saree paired with a prominent Rudraksha garland, Shilpa took the stage at the Shalimar Bagh Ramlila [] The post Shilpa Shinde Wins Hearts as Goddess Sita at Delhi Ramlila appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Kangana Ranaut Redefines Navratri Fashion Look With Torani Printed Lehenga
Actor Kangana Ranaut delivered major festive-style inspiration this Navratri as she stepped out in a striking traditional ensemble by designer label Torani. Known for her effortless blend of classic aesthetics and contemporary flair, the actor embraced maximalist ethnic dressing in the brands Surkh Raktika Manchitra lehenga set, valued at Rs 2,10,500. View this post [] The post Kangana Ranaut Redefines Navratri Fashion Look With Torani Printed Lehenga appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Conjoined Twins Die at Odishas MKCG Medical College
Newborns with two heads and a single body shared a heart; doctors faced complex treatment challenges
ED Widens Probe Into Odisha Police Exam Paper Leak
The Enforcement Directorate is investigating an alleged paper leak in the 2024 Odisha police sub-inspector exam, focusing on the roles of Odisha Police Recruitment Board officials and private entities. The agency is tracing the flow of proceeds of crime and plans to attach illicit assets under PMLA. Recent searches in Odisha and West Bengal targeted companies involved in conducting the exam, revealing an organised leakage scheme and significant cash payments from candidates.
World Menopause Day 2026: Ministry of AYUSH Promotes Holistic Ayurvedic Solutions for Women
On the occasion of World Menopause Day 2026, observed on October 18, the Ministry of AYUSH has emphasised a holistic, preventive approach to womens health during menopause. Spearheaded by the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), the initiative highlights the role of Ayurveda in supporting physical health, emotional equilibrium, and overall quality of [] The post World Menopause Day 2026: Ministry of AYUSH Promotes Holistic Ayurvedic Solutions for Womens Health appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Gwalior Temple Tragedy: CSP Removed, 8 Cops Suspended After Truck Kills 15 Near Sheetla Mata Mandir
A horrifying tragedy struck Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, late Saturday night (Saptami) after a runaway truck laden with paddy mowed down crowds of devotees near the Sheetla Mata Mandir before ramming into the temples entry gate. The impact killed at least 15 people and injured 27 others, triggering swift government action against police officials for security [] The post Gwalior Temple Tragedy: CSP Removed, 8 Cops Suspended After Truck Kills 15 Near Sheetla Mata Mandir appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
ICAR-CPRI Biofortifies Purple Potato to Combat Hidden Hunger with Nutrient-Dense Kufri Jamunia
In a major effort to combat hidden hunger and micronutrient deficiencies, scientists at the ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute (ICAR-CPRI) have developed Kufri Jamunia, a biofortified purple-fleshed potato variety designed to enhance dietary quality nationwide. Unlike industrial food fortification, biofortification integrates essential vitamins and minerals directly into the crop through breeding. Released in 2024, Kufri Jamunia [] The post ICAR-CPRI Biofortifies Purple Potato to Combat Hidden Hunger with Nutrient-Dense Kufri Jamunia appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
In a bid to soften his stance following intense diplomatic pushback from India, US Vice President JD Vance clarified his recent comments describing H-1B visa holders as foreign indentured servants. Speaking on Sunday, Vance admitted that his rhetoric may have been imperfect while invoking his South Indian wife, Second Lady Usha Vance, and his immigrant [] The post JD Vance Backtracks on Indentured Servants Remark Amid Green Card Suspension Controversy appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Braj Mohan Ram Sworn In As 28th Odisha Governor
Former three-time Palamu MP succeeds Hari Babu Kambhampati; Chief Justice Harish Tandon administers oath
France Protests Escalate: Apple, Dior, and Herm
Nationwide protests in France over rising living costs and deteriorating public services turned violent, as major brand storesincluding Celine, Dior, Herms, and Applewere looted and vandalised across several cities. An estimated 550,000 demonstrators took to the streets nationwide, including 110,000 in Paris, according to Interior Minister Laurent Nunez. What began as peaceful student demonstrations over [] The post France Protests Escalate: Apple, Dior, and Herms Stores Ransacked in Nationwide Cost-of-Living Riots appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Amazon Great Indian Festival Deal: Apple AirPods 4 Gets a Major Price Drop
Apples standard AirPods 4 have received a noticeable price cut during the Amazon Great Indian Festival sale, presenting a compelling buy for iPhone users seeking an upgraded wireless audio experience. Originally launched at Rs 12,900, the open-fit earbuds are currently offered at a discounted rate, complemented by bank offers and exchange incentives. Powered by Apples [] The post Amazon Great Indian Festival Deal: Apple AirPods 4 Gets a Major Price Drop appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Vatican City Recreated in Bhubaneswar: Rasulgarh Puja Pandal Stuns Devotees This Dussehra
Bhubaneswar is witnessing a grand celebration this Dussehra as the popular Rasulgarh Durga Puja Committee unveils its stunning thematic pandal replicating Romes iconic Vatican City. Known for pushing creative boundaries with massive architectural replicas, the committee has once again drawn massive crowds to the capital city. Architectural Marvel & Artisan Craftsmanship The grand Vatican City [] The post Vatican City Recreated in Bhubaneswar: Rasulgarh Puja Pandal Stuns Devotees This Dussehra appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Avengers: Doomsday Arrives Early in India; Locks December 2026 Release
Marvel fans across India have a major reason to celebrate as Avengers: Doomsday is set to hit Indian theatres early. According to reports, the superhero spectacle will arrive on December 17, 2026a day ahead of its domestic release. By securing a Thursday release, the film will leverage a massive four-day opening weekend. The target for [] The post Avengers: Doomsday Arrives Early in India; Locks December 2026 Release appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Odisha: Forest Department clerk, two associates arrested in Rs 65.90 lakh fraud
Digital Desk | Bhubaneswar, Oct 18 (IANS) The Odisha Vigilance on Sunday arrested a senior clerk of the Forest Department and two of his associates in Dhenkanal district on charges of misappropriating government funds amounting to Rs 65,90,773 over a period spanning 2016 to 2026. The accused were identified as Sujit Kumar Jena, Senior Clerk at the office of the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Dhenkanal, his associates Soumya Ranjan Behera (a forest department Staff) and Rashmi Ranjan Swain. The agency, in a statement on Sunday, described the arrest of the trio in connection with the Rs 65.90 lakh embezzlement case as a major breakthrough. According to the official statement, following a comprehensive verification spanning transactions from 2016 to 2026, the Vigilance sleuths unearthed a systematic pattern of fraud. It also added that the investigation revealed that the prime accused, Jena, exploited his administrative access to siphon off public funds into private bank accounts belonging to himself, his family members, and co-conspirators. Salaries intended for dismissed and absconding employees, retiring employees' arrear bills, provisional pensions, government allocations meant for establishment pay bills, contingency expenses, staff arrear salaries, and fraudulent Travelling Allowance (T.A.) claims were unlawfully routed out of public funds by Jena, said the agency. During the course of the investigation, the police found that Rs 8,72,520 had been transferred to the bank account of Jenas mother, Rs 10,48,866 to Soumya Ranjan Behera, staff member (Elephant Squad, Sadar Range), and Rs 8,86,193 to close associate Rashmi Ranjan Swain. After the crime was exposed, the trio evaded arrest for an extended period. Odisha Vigilance successfully tracked their movements through technical intelligence and mobile location monitoring, resulting in their apprehension, Odisha Vigilance added. A case (40/26) has been registered in this regard at the Kataka Vigilance Police Station under the Prevention of Corruption Act, and relevant sections of BNS against the prime accused Jena and his associates, Swain, and Behera. They were forwarded to the Court of Special Judge, Vigilance, Dhenkanal, on Sunday.
Popular celebrity couple Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna are set to grace the couch for the second episode of Koffee With Karan Season 9 on JioHotstar, marking their chat show debut as a married couple following their wedding earlier this year. The newly released promo promises a fun-filled episode packed with candid confessions and playful [] The post Koffee With Karan 9 Episode 2 Promo Out: Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna Spill Marriage Secrets appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Sandeep Reddy Vanga Unveils Rugged Poster for Spirit, Locks Oct 2027 Release
In a major shift in theatrical release schedules, the makers of Prabhas highly anticipated cop action thriller, Spirit, have officially announced a new worldwide release date. Directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, the tentpole project is now scheduled to arrive in cinemas on Oct 29, 2027, perfectly timed for the festive season of Diwali. Check this [] The post Sandeep Reddy Vanga Unveils Rugged Poster for Spirit, Locks Oct 2027 Release appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Youth Mauled to Death by Wild Bear in Balangir
Panic has gripped the Kantabanji region in Odisha following the tragic death of a 35-year-old labourer in a wild bear attack. Police recovered the body of the deceased, identified as Surendra Majhi, from the road connecting Kantabanji to Birna village. Majhi, a resident of nearby Dumerchua village, worked as a daily wage labourer. As the [] The post Youth Mauled to Death by Wild Bear in Balangirs Kantabanji appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
JSW Steel gets relief as Odisha HC quashes Rs 696 crore demand; sets aside Rs 1,473 crore notice
The Odisha High Court has quashed a Rs 696.32 crore demand against JSW Steel over mineral dispatch shortfalls at its Jajang iron ore block in FY21. It also set aside a separate Rs 1,472.69 crore demand for FY25, directing authorities to reconsider the matter in line with an earlier judgment.
BJP leader Braj Mohan Ram sworn in as Odisha Governor
Orissa High Court Chief Justice Harish Tandon administered the oath of office to Ram in the presence of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Assembly Speaker Surama Padhy, state ministers, MPs and other dignitaries
Odisha Vigilance Arrests Senior Clerk and 2 Aides in Dhenkanal DFO Office Scam
Odisha Vigilance has exposed a decade-long financial embezzlement amounting to Rs 65,90,773 at the office of the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Dhenkanal. Officials arrested the principal accused, Sujit Kumar Jena, Senior Clerk, alongside his co-conspirators, Elephant Squad staff member Soumya Ranjan Behera and associate Rashmi Ranjan Swain. A comprehensive verification of transactions spanning 2016 to [] The post Odisha Vigilance Arrests Senior Clerk and 2 Aides in Dhenkanal DFO Office Scam appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
A rising tide of socio-economic strain and political discontent has sparked a series of intense street protests across multiple continents. From Western Europe to the Americas and South Asia, citizens are uniting against soaring inflation, housing unaffordability, public service cuts, and perceived governance failures. France and Albania are enduring some of the most intense unrest. [] The post From Paris to Buenos Aires: How Student Movements and Inflation Fears Are Driving Massive Global Protests appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Fresh Weather System Brewing in Bay of Bengal: Low-Pressure Area Likely Around October 24
Weather conditions in the Bay of Bengal are once again set to turn volatile. According to meteorological assessments, a fresh weather system is expected to take shape towards the end of the week, raising concerns over potential rainfall activity across eastern India. What Do the Weather Models Indicate? Cyclonic Circulation: A fresh cyclonic circulation is [] The post Fresh Weather System Brewing in Bay of Bengal: Low-Pressure Area Likely Around October 24 appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Braj Mohan Ram sworn in as Odisha governor; Naveen Patnaik extends congratulations
The News Mill
Braj Mohan Ram Sworn In as Odisha Governor; Orissa HC Chief Justice Harish Tandon Administers Oath
Senior BJP leader and former Parliamentarian Braj Mohan Ram was officially sworn in as the 44th Governor of Odisha on Sunday during a solemn ceremony held at Lok Bhavan in Bhubaneswar. Orissa High Court Chief Justice Harish Tandon administered the oath of office and secrecy to Ram, who donned traditional attire as he took the [] The post Braj Mohan Ram Sworn In as Odisha Governor; Orissa HC Chief Justice Harish Tandon Administers Oath appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Braj Mohan Ram sworn in as Odisha governor with CM Mohan Charan Majhi
The News Mill
Goa Calls the Shots: IPL 2027 Mini Auction Locked for Dec 16
In a historic development for the Indian Premier League (IPL), the mini auction for the 2027 season is set to make its debut in Goa on Dec 16. The event marks the return of the IPL player market to domestic soil following three consecutive editions staged in West Asia. While Dec 14 was initially considered, [] The post Goa Calls the Shots: IPL 2027 Mini Auction Locked for Dec 16 appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Team Trump Issues 60-Day Waiver on Russian Oil Sanctions, Citing Impact on India and Global Economy
In a significant diplomatic and economic maneuver, US President Donald Trump has issued a 60-day national interest waiver on sweeping sanctions and tariffs under the newly enacted Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act (SRIA). The move temporarily halts tariffs of up to 100% on major global purchasers of Russian energy, including India, with [] The post Team Trump Issues 60-Day Waiver on Russian Oil Sanctions, Citing Impact on India and Global Economy appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Historic Limoges Town Hall Burns Down Amid Violent Protests in France; JD Vance Blames Immigration
A wave of massive protests over the rising cost of living and other grievances swept across Paris and multiple French cities on Saturday, resulting in widespread violence, looting, and arson. Among the most devastating losses was the complete destruction of the historic Town Hall in Limoges, a landmark built in 1873 that had miraculously survived [] The post Historic Limoges Town Hall Burns Down Amid Violent Protests in France; JD Vance Blames Immigration appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Kolkata Durga Puja Pandal Stampede: 19 Dead, SIT Probe Ordered, 7 Arrested
A tragic stampede at the popular Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durgotsab Samity pandal in north Kolkata on Saturday evening (Saptami) left at least 19 people dead and 25 injured. The disaster unfolded amidst heavy rain as massive crowds rushed through a narrow bylane seeking shelter, leading to slippery conditions and a catastrophic chain reaction of falls. Key [] The post Kolkata Durga Puja Pandal Stampede: 19 Dead, SIT Probe Ordered, 7 Arrested appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Navratri Day 8: Celebrating Maa Mahagauri, Puja Vidhi, and Kanya Pujan 2026
The eighth day of Navratri is dedicated to the worship of Maa Mahagauri, the eighth form of Goddess Durga. Revered as a symbol of purity, serenity, and unwavering inner strength, her form offers a profound message: remaining committed to ones purpose even when the journey is difficult. The Symbolism of Maa Mahagauri Appearance: Commonly depicted [] The post Navratri Day 8: Celebrating Maa Mahagauri, Puja Vidhi, and Kanya Pujan 2026 appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
From Assam to Bihar, Kerala, Odisha, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Sikkim, West Bengal and more we check the full list of states that announced DA and DR hikes for employees and pensioners in 2026.
Durga Puja trip turns fatal, 2 killed in accident
Man held for poisoning wife over dowry
Youth electrocuted while repairing light
MKCG med college collects 1,000 pieces of clothes for needy
Man gets 20 yrs jail term for kidnapping, raping minor
Union min Shah lauds ABVPs performance in student union polls
Odisha seek revival against Kerala after Gujarat setback
Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi Condoles Kolkata Durga Puja Stampede Victims
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday expressed deep grief over the tragic stampede at a Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata that claimed 17 lives and left dozens injured. In a statement, Majhi conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. Deeply saddened to learn about the tragic stampede in Kolkata. My heartfelt condolences [] The post Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi Condoles Kolkata Durga Puja Stampede Victims appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
17 Dead, 35 Injured in Stampede at Kolkata Durga Puja Pandal
A major tragedy struck the famous Chorbagan Durga Puja pandal in North Kolkata on Saturday evening after a stampede-like situation reportedly broke out amid heavy crowd pressure, leaving at least 17 people dead and more than 35 others injured. The incident occurred during the ongoing Durga Puja festivities, when thousands of devotees had gathered at [] The post 17 Dead, 35 Injured in Stampede at Kolkata Durga Puja Pandal appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
India-West Indies T20I Series Ends in 2-2 Draw After Bengaluru Washout
An evening of anticipation and explosive batting at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium ended in anti-climax on Saturday, October 17, 2026, when persistent rain forced the abandonment of the fifth and final T20I between India and the West Indies. With India having blazed to 118 for 5 in just 7.4 overs of a rain-reduced nine-over contest, [] The post India-West Indies T20I Series Ends in 2-2 Draw After Bengaluru Washout appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Odisha Chief Minister Congratulates Hockey Players for Asian Games Gold Medal
Odishas CM Mohan Chara Majhi meets hockey players Amit Rohidas, Shilanand Lakra, and Sunelita Toppo after their gold medal win at the Asian Games. Odisha Chief Minister Congratulates Hockey Players for Asian Games Gold Medal
Persistent rain continued to disrupt the fifth and final T20I between India and West Indies at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday, turning the series decider into a truncated 9-overs-a-side affair. West Indies won the toss and elected to field. India, led by Shreyas Iyer, got off to a brisk start but lost regular wickets. [] The post Rain interrupts India-West Indies series decider at Chinnaswamy; India reach 118/5 in reduced 9-over contest appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Sudarsan Pattnaik Creates 10-Ft Maa Durga Installation Using Sand And 32 Varieties Of Produce
Padma Shri awardee Sudarsan Pattnaik created a 10-foot-high installation of Maa Durga at Puri Sea Beach in Odisha, using around eight tonnes of sand and 32 varieties of fruits and vegetables. Completed in five hours with students from his Sand Art Institute, the artwork carried the festive message, Happy Durga Puja.
Digital Desk | New Delhi/Hyderabad, Oct 17 (IANS) Telangana Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Konda Vishweshwar Reddy has connected India's long-unresolved border enclaves with Bangladesh to the ongoing protests in Delhi against the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, adding that the past territorial anomalies enabled illegal migration that still affects voter lists today. In a video explanation circulating widely, Reddy described the pre-2015 situation as one of the most bizarre international borders in existence. India had 111 enclaves inside Bangladesh while Bangladesh had 51 enclaves inside India. In some places the complexity ran deeper: second-order enclaves existed where a Bangladeshi pocket lay inside an Indian enclave that itself sat inside Bangladesh, and vice versa. These territories, left over from the Partition era, created service-less zones in which residents lacked reliable access to administration, identity documents and clear citizenship pathways for decades. The anomalies were finally settled through the 2015 Land Boundary Agreement, negotiated and passed by the Parliament under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Under the swap, residents were given the choice of citizenship and the last remaining pockets of foreign territory on either side of the border were eliminated. Reddy presented this resolution as the closure of a long-standing irregularity that had facilitated unchecked movement across the frontier. Such stupid borders were designed for political interests... and they continued from the day of Partition till recently, till 2015 until the Narendra Modi government came, the Telangana BJP MP said. He then linked that history directly to the current protests in the national capital. Demonstrators have opposed the Election Commission's SIR exercise, which critics claim has removed more than 130 million names from the electoral rolls, Reddy added. Supporters of the BJP MP's video said that the voter revision is a necessary housekeeping measure to identify and delete illegal or ineligible entries. Protesters, by contrast, said that large numbers of genuine eligible voters have been wrongly struck off and have demanded the resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Reddy framed the voter revision exercise as a logical continuation of earlier efforts to regularise citizenship and prevent infiltration from distorting democratic processes. He contended that porous borders and political patronage in certain states had previously allowed illegal migration to continue as a form of vote-bank politics, naming the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal and the Congress in Assam and elsewhere, with effects felt as far as Hyderabad, Delhi, Bihar and Odisha. In related remarks, the Telangana BJP MP broadened the charge. He alleged that recent protests and digital campaigns form part of a coordinated international effort aimed at regime change against Prime Minister Modi. According to Reddy, a diverse coalition of opposition parties and fringe groupsincluding the Congress, Samajwadi Party, DMK and extreme organisations, together with external actorsshare a single objective: to unseat the government. They (Opposition) do not have a common cause. The common cause is not NEET, not the UPI payment system, not the Election Commission... The common cause is to defeat PM Modi, regime change, he said, insisting that leadership change in a democracy must occur only through elections, not through orchestrated street agitation. Reddy also claimed large-scale manipulation of social-media metrics. Referring to an independent political figure associated with the Aam Aadmi Party, the Telangana BJP MP described a sudden surge of millions of Instagram followers as 100 per cent fake, 100 per cent paid, contrasting the online numbers with the modest physical turnout at the early stages of the protests. He also warned of multifaceted external pressures targeting India's economic stabilitycurrency volatility, disruptions in oil trade, and potential impacts on the information-technology and pharmaceutical sectors. In his view, strong leadership under PM Modi has so far enabled India to navigate these challenges while preserving strategic and economic autonomy. The discussion has added a historical dimension to an already polarised debate over electoral integrity, citizenship verification and the legacy of Partition-era borders. While the 2015 agreement resolved the enclave problem on paper, questions about migration, documentation and the accuracy of voter lists continue to surface. As protests persist in Delhi, interpretations of the SIR remain sharply divided; one side sees it as a safeguard against illegal entries, the other as an overreach that disenfranchises citizens. Reddy's intervention has injected the story of the old enclaves into that contemporary argument, presenting the current clean-up of electoral rolls as the unfinished business of regularising who belongs on India's voter lists.
9-hr chase helps Odisha vigilance nab irrigation engineer in bribery case, Rs 21L seized
West Indies Win Toss, Elect to Bowl First in Rain-Shortened Bengaluru Decider
After hours of rain delays and uncertainty, the series-deciding fifth T20I between India and the West Indies finally got underway at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, albeit in a dramatically shortened format. West Indies captain Shai Hope won the toss and elected to bowl first, handing India the opportunity to set a target in a nine-over-a-side [] The post West Indies Win Toss, Elect to Bowl First in Rain-Shortened Bengaluru Decider appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
ISL: Thoi Singh's late strike denies Odisha FC victory
Inter Kashi secured a 1-1 draw against Odisha FC in their Indian Super League match on Saturday. Odisha FC initially took the lead through an own goal by Pratik Chaudhari in the 58th minute, but Thoi Singh scored a late equaliser for Inter Kashi, ensuring both teams shared the points.
Odisha Vigilance seizes 21.88 lakh from engineer accused of collecting bribes
Superintending engineer allegedly collected money from contractors; joined government service in 2016 at a montly salary of about 25,000
Odisha Prepares for High-Profile VVIP Visits as PM Modi and President Murmu Head to the State
The state of Odisha is preparing to host both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu in late October 2026. Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to visit Khordha on October 25, while President Murmu will undertake a two-day official visit to Mayurbhanj district on October 28 and 29. In light of these upcoming high-profile [] The post Odisha Prepares for High-Profile VVIP Visits as PM Modi and President Murmu Head to the State appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Woman Kills Husband Over Daughter's Harassment, Dumps Body On Tracks
An Odisha-native woman has been taken into custody in Kochi for allegedly murdering her husband, Ajeeta Naik, and dumping his body near a railway track. The woman claims she attacked Naik after he allegedly attempted to sexually harass her 16-year-old daughter. Police are investigating the incident, including potential charges under the POCSO Act.
CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke Walks Free After Conditional Bail in Delhi
Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), was released on Saturday after being granted conditional bail by a Special Executive Magistrate (SEM) in Delhi, a day after he was detained while attempting to join the partys proposed Lehra Do Tiranga march at Connaught Place. According to Delhi Police, Dipke was released after signing [] The post CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke Walks Free After Conditional Bail in Delhi appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has accused Odisha's BJP government of using intimidation and administrative pressure on university officials following campus union poll results. The post Naveen Patnaik Hails BCJDs Campus Victories, Accuses BJP Govt of Using Money and Muscle Power appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Thermal Camera Captures Elephants Moving Through Odisha Forest Under Cover of Darkness
The Dhenkanal Forest Division released the footage on Saturday, showing the elephants traversing the forest under the cover of darkness.
