Bhubaneswar: BJP National President JP Nadda is scheduled to visit Odisha on May 5, 2024. He is scheduled to meet party leaders in Bhubaneswar, informed State BJP vice-president Golak Mohapatra on Friday. Nadda is also scheduled to visit Cuttack and share key instructions with party workers and leaders regarding the strategy of the party [] The post External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to visit Odisha on May 4; BJP national president JP Nadda on May 5 appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Heatwave To Prevail For Two More Days In Odisha Districts, Thunderstorms/ Rain Thereafter
Bhubaneswar: Severe heatwave conditions will prevail in 16 districts of Odisha for another two days, the regional center of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) here cautioned in its mid-day bulletin on Friday. At the same time, the weather office has said that thunderstorms and light to moderate rain are likely to occur in most [] The post Heatwave To Prevail For Two More Days In Odisha Districts, Thunderstorms/ Rain Thereafter appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Assam CM woos voters in Western Assam
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma speaking at a conclave in Odisha capital Bhubaneswar on Saturday. (Image: DC) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma speaking at a conclave in Odisha capital Bhubaneswar on Saturday. (Image: DC) Guwahati: Taking a U-turn from his anti-Muslim rhetoric, Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has alleged that the Congress and the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), are engaged in false propaganda to deceive the electorate with lies. Stating that opposition was spreading fear among Muslims, Mr Sarma said that they spread lies previously that mosques would be shut down and religious practices like Namaz and Ramzan would be banned under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. Contrary to his rhetoric in past, Mr Sarma highlighted that the Modi administration has now completed a decade in power without any such prohibitions and noted a cessation of communal clashes during this period. It is significant that Mr Sarma on Thursday travelled to Dhubri Lok sabha seat to campaign for the ally Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) candidate, just a month after he declared that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) did not want to win the Dhubri seat and that he would never go there to seek votes. Mr Sarma described the Congress era as one marked by violence and disruption, characterised by Guns, Bullets, Bomb Blasts, picketing, and Assam Bandhs. He asserted that his government has eradicated these societal ills. Mr Sarma who addressed three public meetings at Gauripur, Bilasipara and Golakganj in Western Assam,said, I see a wave of enthusiasm among people in favour of AGP and BJP in parts of Dhubri where we didnt have any presence earlier. People have realised that Mr Ajmals (sitting MP Badruddin Ajmal) time in Dhubri is over, and they dont need Rakibul (Congress candidate Rakibul Hussain). The Dhubri Lok Sabha seat has been an AIUDF bastion since the 2009 general elections when Ajmal was first elected as an MP. He has been re-elected from the seat three times since. Sarma had last year claimed that the BJP does not want votes from Miyas for the next 10 years till the community discards practices like child marriages, sends girls to schools and stays away from fundamentalism. In a direct attack on his political rivals, Mr Sarma claimed that Congress candidate Rakibul Hussain and AIUDF candidate Badruddin Ajmal were merely putting on a show for the people of Dhubri. He urged the residents not to lag behind in the nation's progress and to actively participate in the development narrative being written by the NDA, which he confidently stated would form the next central government. AGP, a constituent of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance in Assam, is contesting from Dhubri, one of Assams three Muslim-majority Lok Sabha seats, and Barpeta as part of the alliance. The BJP is contesting in 11 out of 14 seats in Assam, while its ally AGP is contesting in two seats Barpeta and Dhubri. One seat has gone to United Peoples Party Liberal. Dhubri is scheduled to vote in the third phase of the ongoing general elections on May 7.
Bhubaneswar: Anubhav Mohanty, the outgoing Biju Janata Dal MP from Kendrapara Lok Sabha seat and a prominent actor in Odia cinema, who recently joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ahead of elections, filed nomination as independent candidate from Khandapada Assembly seat. Anubhav Mohanty, who won from Kendrapada parliamentary seat, polling highest votes among all [] The post BJP Dashes Hopes Of Anubhav Mohanty, Actor Politician Files Nomination As Independent Candidate From Khandapada Assembly seat appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Odisha: Pranab Prakash Dass mom to fight from Korei as BJD candidate
BHUBANESWAR: Putting an end to speculations, BJD on Thursday announced Sandhyarani Das, mother of party organisational secretary Pranab Prakash Das, as its candidate from Korei Assembly seat in Jajpur district. Sandhyarani replaces Ashok Kumar Bal, the partys sitting MLA from the constituency. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik announced the list of candidates for the last three Assembly seats including much-awaited Korei. The party has changed the candidate for Deogarh Assembly seat by replacing Arundhati Devi, wife of Sambalpur MP Nitesh Ganga Deb of BJP, with Romancha Ranjan Biswal who had contested the 2019 elections unsuccessfully. The chief minister also announced Sabitri Pradhan as the partys candidate from Khandapada Assembly seat overlooking the claim of former MLA Anubhav Patnaik. Similarly, BJD has given ticket to Sukanta Nayak from Nilgiri Assembly seat. Nayak has consecutively won from the seat in 2014 and 2019 on BJD and BJP tickets respectively. Nayak had resigned from the BJP and rejoined BJD recently. The candidature of Sandhyarani from Korei is being seen as a back-up plan for Das who is BJDs candidate from Sambalpur Lok Sabha seat where he is pitted against BJP heavyweight and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. If Das fails to win, he can always get himself elected from Korei. The seat in Jajpur district is a family stronghold of Das and represented by his father Ashok Das five times. BJDs Khandapada candidate Sabitri is the chairperson of Bhapur block. The regional party had to change its candidate from the seat as sitting MLA, Soumya Ranjan Patnaik was expelled from the party. Meanwhile, announcement of candidates from Khandapada and Nilgiri has sparked resentment. Former MLA Anubhav Patnaik, a strong contender for a ticket this time from the seat, has resigned in protest. He is set to file his nomination as an Independent candidate on Friday. In his resignation letter to the chief minister, the former MLA said his father Arun Patnaik was with Biju Patnaik since 1985 and mother Bijaylaxmi Patnaik, a two-time MLA from the seat had worked to strengthen the partys organisation in the constituency. Patnaik said he had worked to strengthen organisation in the constituency. Santosh Khatua, the BJD candidate from Nilgiri in the 2019 also resigned from the party after his claim for a ticket was ignored.
Dharmendra Pradhan richer by Rs 4 Lakh in 2 years, has over Rs 2.32 crore
BHUBANESWAR: Union Education Minister and BJP candidate from Sambalpur Lok Sabha seat Dharmendra Pradhan has declared movable and immovable property worth over Rs 2.32 crore and liabilities of over Rs 32.79 lakh. Pradhan had declared total assets including movable and immovable properties worth over Rs 2.28 crore with liabilities of over Rs 45 lakh on March 31, 2022. His assets have grown during the period by over Rs 4 lakh. The movable assets declared by the minister include deposits in bank accounts, joint accounts with wife Mridula Thakur Pradhan worth over Rs 60.94 lakh and Rs 35,000 cash in hand. He also owns jewellery worth Rs 13.5 lakh including 200 gram gold and 2.5 kg silver. He has computers and other articles worth Rs 2 lakh. Immovable property declared by Pradhan include agricultural land at Satyabandha within Khamar police limits of Angul district, the current market value of which is Rs 12 lakh. He had purchased the land on July 13, 2011 for over Rs 1.3 lakh. Pradhan owns non-agricultural land worth over Rs 20.50 lakh. Besides, he owns a residential building in Ghaziabad district in Uttar Pradesh having current market price of Rs 60 lakh. The Union ministers wife has movable and immovable properties worth over Rs 2.95 crore and Rs 1.37 crore respectively. She has liabilities of Rs 20.57 lakh. Besides, their daughter Naimisha and son Nishant have immovable properties worth over Rs 25.29 lakh and Rs 1.62 lakh respectively.
Dr PC Mahapatra is BJPs pick for Cuttack-Barabati assembly seat
BHUBANESWAR: The BJP on Thursday announced six candidates for Assembly seats in Odisha fielding its state unit vice president Dr Purna Chandra Mahapatra in Barabati-Cuttack segment, Shambhunath Rout in Ghasipura, Ashish Patra in Bhograi, Sudhanshu Nayak in Bhandaripokhari, Umesh Chandra Jena in Bari and Prakash Chandra Ranabijuli in Begunia. A renowned gynaecologist, Dr Mahapatra was in contention for Cuttack Lok Sabha seat. He was nominated from Barabati-Cuttack segment after the party fielded six-time MP Bhartruhari Mahtab, who defected from BJD. The former head of the department of obstetrics and gynaecology at the states premier SCB Medical College and Hospital left many surprised when he was chosen to one of the top posts of the party last year despite not being a primary member then. Kendrapara MP and actor-turned-politician Anubhav Mohanty, who had resigned from BJD, was also in the race for the seat. BJPs Ghasipura candidate Shambhunath is a surprise pick as speculation was rife about Khandapada MLA Soumya Ranjan Patnaik, who has been expelled from BJD, contesting from the seat after he hinted on similar lines during his visit to Maa Tarini temple at Ghatagaon on Tuesday. Known for his association with VHP and RSS, Shambhunath, had retired from state government job a few years back. The party has nominated Patra, the former block president of Congress, as the candidate from Bhograi. The three-time sarpanch and a director of Balasore-Bhadrak Central Cooperative Bank, he had resigned from Congress a week back and joined BJP on Wednesday. BJP sprang a surprise in Bhandaripokhari by nominating former BJD leader Sudhanshu, the husband of two-time chairperson of Bonth block. He had switched to saffron camp last year. However, Prakash, a close aide of sitting Bhubaneswar MP and BJP candidate Aparajita Sarangi has been named as the BJP candidate from the Begunia Assembly segment. It was being speculated that Begunia could be offered to veteran Prasanna Patasani if he switches to BJP from BJD. Similarly, Umesh, who had contested from Bari on Congress ticket in 2019, has been chosen over former minister Debasis Nayak, who had quit BJD and joined BJP in February. The party was also reportedly waiting for sitting MLA Sunanda Das to switch allegiance after she was denied a ticket by BJD this time.
666 theme-based booths to be set up in Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups areas in Odisha
BHUBANESWAR: Around 666 polling stations are being established in areas dominated by the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) with unique themes, to ensure greater representation of tribal voters. The ethnic, theme-based booths will be designed to highlight indigenous tradition and culture of the PVTGs, informed officials of chief electoral officer (CEO). Odisha is home to 13 PVTGs including Paudi Bhuiya, Juang, Saura, Lanjia Saura, Mankirdia, Birhore, Kutia Kondha, Bonda, Didayi, Lodha, Kharia, Chukutia Bhunjia, Dongria Kondha with a total population of 2,64,974. Through registration drives were carried out by booth-level officers in all districts since December last year, there has been 100 per cent enrolment of eligible PVTG voters whose number stands at 1,84,274. The Election Commission of India (ECI), in a release stated, in the last two years, awareness activities were conducted periodically on the importance of electoral participation and voter education content created in the local dialects. Alongside special registration drives, a multifaceted approach incorporating traditional folk arts and community engagement has been instrumental in ensuring 100 per cent PVTG enrolment. Wall paintings and street plays in local dialects along with cultural forms like Pala and Daskathia, have also served as powerful media for voter education and awareness, it said. In order to familiarise the PVTG voters with the voting process, the CEO has been deploying mobile demonstration vehicles in the tribal-dominated areas to educate the communities on the electoral process and over 20,000 PVTGs have participated in mock polls so far.
Global honour for Odia boys startup
Bhubaneswar: Anup Paikaray, founder of Newrup Tech Solutions, a state-supported startup that manufactures the most affordable clean energy equipment, recently got an international honour at a programme in Boston. Anup is a graduate of Odisha University of Technology and Research OUTR), with a degree in Electronics and Instrumentation. He was the winner of the Smartideathon []
Wave of fake news as polls draw near
Bhubaneswar: With prominent party leaders taking into social media for assembly polls, a wave of misinformation and fake news by unidentified miscreants have filled several platforms. Despite several hundreds of fake videos and posts, hoarding up in social media, the Cyber Cell of Odisha police has kept mum on the issue. Sources revealed that many []
Aparajita, Manmath nominations raise Odisha poll heat
BHUBANESWAR: The intense heat did not deter thousands of BJP and BJD supporters from accompanying their candidates for filing of nominations for Bhubaneswar Lok Sabha constituency. Flanked by thousands of supporters who resorted to loud sloganeering, both BJPs Aparajita Sarangi and BJDs Manmath Routray reached the collectorate in style. However, police had to be present in large numbers as the scene remained charged with both the camps fervently rallying behind their nominees. Prior to filing her nomination papers, Sarangi organised multiple rallies on the Bhubaneswar-Khurda collectorate stretch. The BJP candidate was seen taking part in bike rallies of supporters at Baramunda field at around 7.30 am. After this, she prayed at Bhuasuni temple and moved in a bike and car rally. At around 10.30 am, Sarangi took out a padayatra from Gita Bhawan ground. She reached the collectorate at around 12.30 pm with BJPs MLA candidates in the constituency as well as leaders and supporters in thousands. The electrifying atmosphere itself speaks about the love and faith people of Bhubaneswar constituency have for me. As I had said earlier, people are fighting this election for me. They were donating me funds and are now joining me in thousands of number for my nomination filing. I am confident that people will remain undefeated in this elections, said Sarangi. She thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for giving her the opportunity to contest from the seat for the second time. Bhubaneswar BJP MP candidate Aparajita Sarangi takes out a huge rally before filing her nomination | EXPRESS Not to be outdone, BJDs candidate Routray also made a grand entrance of his own, opting for a more traditional way of procession to reach the Khurda collectorate. Surrounded by a sea of supporters, the BJD candidate reached the collectorate on a bullock cart to make a grassroots appeal. Earlier in the morning, Routray jogged to Lingaraj temple in Old Town to seek blessing of the Lord. He continued to jog for miles till Khandagiri and was later seen dressed as a farmer, heading on a bullock cart, to file his nomination papers. Mayor Sulochana Das and all the Assembly candidates of BJD in Bhubaneswar LS seat were present with him. As Paikas, we protect our land and in the free time get involved in agricultural activities. This is our real culture. I am also fighting this election as a Paika son to bring back Odia Asmita (pride), Routray told mediapersons, on his way to the collectorate, while thanking Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik for imposing trust on him and giving him the opportunity to contest from the constituency and serve its people. Apart from the two Lok Sabha candidates, BJP candidate for Khurda Prasanta Jagadev also filed his nomination papers on the day. BJP candidate for Bhubaneswar-Central Jagannath Pradhan, BJDs Bhubaneswar-north candidate Susanta Kumar Rout and Jatni candidate Bibhuti Balabantray had filed their nominations recently.
Lost in Durga Puja mela, minor boy reunites with family after a decade in Odisha
BHUBANESWAR: The joy of Chuba Sirka, a tribal woman of Jipabandh village in Mayurbhanj district, knew no bounds when she saw her son Diku Sirka after a decade. It was a hope she had given up on till the district child protection officer (DCPO) took the help of Odisha Computer Application Centre (OCAC) to reunite him with his family. Diku was only seven-years-old when he slipped from the firm grip of his mother during a crowded Durga Puja mela that was organised at Badampahar nearby and disappeared. The boy, who is mentally unstable to an extent, is the youngest among seven siblings. His father Tausa Sirka had died a few years before that. Neither could his family trace him, nor did they register a police complaint. Diku, on the other hand, managed to reach Jashipur, 25 km away from his village. On seeing the little boy wandering in the Jashipur market, locals questioned him about his whereabouts but the latter could not give them any details except identifying himself as Dipu. Subsequently, they handed him over to the police who produced him before the Child Welfare Committee (CWC). The CWC sent him to a child care institution (CCI), Adruta Childrens Home at Baripada. He had been with us ever since and we were also sending him to a local school. But all these years, he could not tell us anything about his family, said DCPO Mamata Mayee Biswal. Whenever we took him to a Jan Seva Kendra to make a new Aadhaar card for him, the application got rejected and it was marked as duplication. Although it showed that his individual identification number existed, it could not be generated. We had lost hope because his facial features changed over the years and facial authentication wasnt possible to trace his original Aadhaar details, Biswal said. The DCPO and CCI then decided to approach OCAC at Bhubaneswar for the purpose. Last month, he was taken to OCAC and the officials concerned could use his facial impressions to find out his Aadhaar number and original address. Following this, the child protection authorities met the family to verify details of Diku. After confirming that he belonged to the Sirka family of Jipabandh, the boy - 17 years old now - was reunited with his family a week back.
GST collection in Odisha hits record high in April
BHUBANESWAR: Gross GST collection in Odisha hit a record high in April with an overall tax revenue of Rs 5,902.25 crore registering a growth rate of 17.21 per cent against the national average of 13 per cent. The gross GST collection including CGST, SGST, IGST and Cess, was Rs 5,035.74 crore in Odisha in April last year. Odisha has also breached all previous records in state GST revenue registering a phenomenal growth rate of 32.94 per cent last month. From the overall collection, the state share and IGST settlement was Rs 2,996.05 crore in April this year against Rs 2,253.71 crore collected during the corresponding period in 2023. The collection of state GST exclusively in April was Rs 2,081.83 crore, which is also the highest ever state GST collection since the introduction of GST regime. The collection under all acts monitored by the Commissionerate of CT and GST, including state GST, IGST settlement, VAT and profession tax in April was Rs 3,330.48 crore as compared to Rs 2,544.45 crore during the corresponding month last year. The collection under all acts posted a growth rate of 30.89 per cent. Odisha is among top-six states that have recorded the highest growth rate in collection of gross GST last month. Assam topped with a growth rate of 25 per cent, followed by Bihar (23 per cent), Punjab and Haryana (21 per cent) and Uttar Pradesh (19 per cent). GST officials attributed the highest ever collection of tax to the growth in compliances and both domestic and interstate transactions besides the mining revenue. The GST collection now shows the buoyancy that was expected at the time of its roll out, they said. As many as 23.15 lakh of waybills were generated last month as against 20.9 lakh in April 2023. Of this, 12.38 lakh were intra-state waybills and 8.51 lakh were inter-state waybills. The highest 24.4 lakh waybills were generated in March this year. Impressive figures Rs 5,902.25 crore overall tax revenue collected in April Rs 5,035.74 crore gross GST collection in April last year Rs 2,996.05 crore state share and IGST settlement in April this year Rs 2,081.83 crore state GST collected in April
Mixed reactions to BMCs temporary traffic sheds
Bhubaneswar: To provide respite to citizens from the scorching heat, Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has started installing temporary sheds in all major traffic junctions across the City. However, the move got mixed reactions from a cross-section of people. Taking to social media, one denizen asked, Why not promote median plantation of big trees for a []
Poll panel woos voters with messages on gas cylinders, bamboo hand fans
Sgarh man arrested for killing relative
OMFED joins bid to boost voter turnout in capital city
Invitation letters to new voters
SUCI candidate hopes to make a mark with community support
20 crorepatis in poll fray in Ganjam, Gajapati
Modi to canvass in Berhampur next week
Nuapada, Khariar grapple with fluoride content in potable water
Association formed, flat owners can now define rights over property
1 held for circulating royals morphed image
Couple adopts baby given up by mom
BJP state unit targets BJD over farmers issues
BJP releases six more names for assembly polls
Candidates shake a leg, conduct roadshows before filing nomination
At 45 Celsius, Balangir town hottest in state
ECI Orders Transfer of Sujata Karthikeyan From Mission Shakti Dept After BJPs Complaint
Bhubaneswar: The Election Commission of India (ECI) Thursday ordered the transfer of Sujata R. Karthikeyan, IAS, wife of powerful BJD leader V.K. Pandian, from the post of Secretary to the Mission Shakti Department of Odisha. According to reports in the national media, Ms Karthikeyan, Commissioner cum Secretary, Department of Mission Shakti, has been ordered to [] The post ECI Orders Transfer of Sujata Karthikeyan From Mission Shakti Dept After BJPs Complaint appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
EC transfers IAS officer Sujata Karthikeyan, wife of BJD leader Pandian, after BJP complaint
NEW DELHI/BHUBANESWAR: The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday ordered the transfer of commissioner-cum-secretary of Mission Shakti department Sujata Karthikeyan to a non-public dealing department with immediate effect. Sujata is the wife of 5T chairman and BJD leader VK Pandian , who is a close aide of Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. Sources in the ECI confirmed to The New Indian Express that the action was taken following a complaint regarding an alleged misuse of public office and authority by the officer. Earlier in the day, the BJP had moved the poll panel accusing Sujata of misusing her position to influence voters through the Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) programme for electoral gains of BJD. In its complaint, the BJP alleged the Mission Shakti department was being misused by the ruling dispensation to influence voters to vote for BJD in the simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. As part of its charter of duty, the department promotes various women self-help groups (SHGs) and provides gainful activities to its members by providing credit, market linkage and other financial benefits, with a budget running into thousands of crores. The functionaries of the department have been compelling and coercing these SHGs with the threat of stopping the government's financial benefits, thus making them propagate and influence the voters. This is a brazen violation of the model code of conduct under the garb of SVEEP for reaching out to a wider population with its messages of voter awareness and education, the complaint read. It would have been fair and proper for her to understand the implications of her being the wife of Pandian and she should have proceeded on leave and disassociated herself from the public dealing duty during the elections. However, she is actively participating in the elections as a front person of the BJD in a manner which has been unheard of earlier, the complaint from the BJP read. A delegation led by Union Minister Rajeev Chandershekhar, Rajya Sabha member Sudhanshu Trivedi and senior party leader Om Pathak met the poll panel, demanding immediate action to ensure free, fair and transparent elections. Sujata could not be contacted for a comment. For Pandian, by Pandian, against Pandian is the story of 2024 Odisha polls
Odisha: 10 workers injured, some of them critically, in black furnace blast
Bhubaneswar: At least 10 workers suffered severe burn injuries in an explosion in a furnace of a steel plant at Rugudi in Keonjhar on Thursday evening. As per reports, all the injured workers are from different states and were engaged temporarily by a contractor firm. Like any other day, hundreds of workers were working when the furnace above them exploded and sparks of fire fell like rain covering an area of 50 meters radius. Hearing the explosion sound, workers started running helter-skelter. However, 10 labourers came under the fire sparks. All the injured labourers were rushed to the Keonjhar District Headquarters Hospital (DHH). Of them, four were stated to be critical.
Ex-VLW Gets 3-Yr Jail for Embezzling Govt Funds in Nayagarh
Bhubaneswar: Krushna Chandra Kanhar, the former Village Level Worker (VLW) and Executive Officer of Padmabati Gram Panchayat under Bhapur Block of Nayagarh district was arrested today from his residence. The arrest was made on the strength of a non-bailable warrant (NBW) issued by the 2nd Additional Special Judge, Vigilance, Bhubaneswar. Kanhar, along with two other [] The post Ex-VLW Gets 3-Yr Jail for Embezzling Govt Funds in Nayagarh appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Odisha BJP moves EC against IPS officer over alleged MCC violation
Bhubaneswar: The BJP Thursday lodged a complaint to the Election Commission against a senior IPS officer, alleging that the police officer violated the model code of conduct (MCC) and demanding his transfer outside Odisha. A delegation of state BJP leaders submitted a petition before the Odisha chief electoral officer and complained that IPS officer Ashish []
Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan submit nominations for Rajya Sabha polls
Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan submit nominations for Rajya Sabha polls BJD president and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, former central minister Jual Oram and several other leaders of Odisha on Thursday filed nomination papers for the ensuing Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. Patnaik filed his nomination papers from the Kantabanji assembly segment under the Bolangir parliamentary constituency in the state's western region, two days after he filed his papers from his traditional Hinjili seat in Ganjam district. Patnaik chose Kantabanji as the second seat as it is strategically located and connected to three Lok Sabha seats such as Kalahandi, Bolangir, and Bargarh. These three LS seats were won by the opposition BJP in the 2019 elections. Patnaik in 2019 had also contested from two seats - Bijepur and Hinjili - and had won in both. He retained the Hinjili seat while resigning from the Bijepur assembly segment. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who is set to contest the Lok Sabha elections after a gap of 15 years, also filed his nomination paper from the Sambalpur Lok Sabha seat. Pradhan held a massive roadshow in Sambalpur city after offering prayers at Samaleswari temple. The blessings of Maa Samaleswari are with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP will win 21 out of 21 Lok Sabha seats in Odisha, he told reporters. Five-time BJP MP Jual Oram, who is also a former Union minister, also during the day filed his nomination paper for the Sundergarh Lok Sabha seat after offering prayers at his village and tribal god. He is seeking re-election from the Sundargarh LS seat and is pitted against BJDs Dilip Tirkey, who submitted his nomination papers on April 30. Meanwhile, the Khurda collectorate witnessed a noisy scene when the supporters of BJP MP Aparajita Sarangi and BJD MP candidate Manmath Routray shouted slogans during the filing of nomination. After offering prayers at the Maa Bhuasuni temple at Jalna, Sarangi along with her supporters reached Khurda collectorate to file the nomination. Women supporters also took out a scooter rally from Baramunda ground to Khurda. With the blessings of Lord Jagannath and Lord Lingaraj, I am again seeking election from the Bhubaneswar LSD seat. This is a fight of the people of the constituency, she said. Manmath Routray, son of Congress MLA Suresh Routray, also arrived at the Khurda collectorate riding a bullock cart and blowing conches. I am a son of Paika (peasant soldier) and the bullock cart is its symbol. I am overwhelmed to see the crowd accompanying me to the collectorate. I am confident of a landmark victory in the elections, he told reporters. His father and Jatani MLA Suresh Routray, who has been expelled from Congress for supporting his BJD candidate son, was seen performing a traditional sword dance in the procession. While Sundargarh will vote on May 20, Sambalpur and Bhubaneswar will go to polls on May 25.
Social Media Cell blocks292 offensive poll posts
Bhubaneswar: The social media monitoring cell of the Odisha Police has blocked 292 offensive posts related to the general elections 2024. These posts were posted by supporters of various political parties and other groups on social media platforms like YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and X (formerly Twitter), a release said Thursday. On the orders of Election []
Odisha reels under scorching heat, Bolangir records 45 deg C
Bhubaneswar: Odisha continued to be under the grip of a severe heatwave Thursday, with the mercury shooting past the 44 degrees Celsius mark at several places, the Met Department said. Bolangir sizzled at 45 degrees Celsius, followed by Angul town at 44.7 deg C, Nuapada (44.6 deg C), Talcher (44.5 deg C), Boudh (44.3 deg []
Bolangir Boils At 45C; IMD Predicts Break From Heatwave In Odisha After May 6
Bhubaneswar: Severe heatwave conditions continued to prevail in the state for the 18th day in a row, while Balangir, Boudh, Nuapada, Baleshwar, Mayurbhanj, Jajpur, Keonjhar and Nayagarh districts experienced heatwave conditions on Thursday. In 6 towns of the state, the temperature was recorded above 44C, while in total 29 towns recorded above 40C. Bolangir became [] The post Bolangir Boils At 45C; IMD Predicts Break From Heatwave In Odisha After May 6 appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Odisha Police Takes Down 292 Offensive Posts ahead of General Elections
Bhubaneswar: Social Media monitoring cell of Odisha Police has blocked 292 offensive posts related to General Election 2024. These posts have been posted by supporters of various political parties and other groups on social media platforms like YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). On the orders of Election Commission of India and Chief Election Officer [] The post Odisha Police Takes Down 292 Offensive Posts ahead of General Elections appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Vedanta Aluminium Gets Punny With Its Latest Social Media Campaign
Bhubaneswar: If you thought theres not much to laugh about when it comes to metals and minerals, think again. In a refreshing departure from stoic Business-to-Business (B2B) conventions, Vedanta Aluminium, Indias largest producer of aluminium, has launched a quirky social media campaign called ComicAL, reconceptualising the versatile features of aluminium, often dubbed the Metal of [] The post Vedanta Aluminium Gets Punny With Its Latest Social Media Campaign appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
BJP Names Candidates for Six More Assembly Seats in Odisha
Bhubaneswar: The BJP on Thursday named the candidates for six more Assembly elections in Odisha for the upcoming elections. Here is the list of six BJP MLA candidates: Ghasipura: Shambhunath Rout Bhograi: Ashish Patra Bhandaripokhari: Sudhanshu Nayak Bari: Umesh Chandra Jena Barabati-Cuttack: Purnachandra Mohapatra Begunia: Prakash Chandra Ranabijuli The BJP party has so far announced [] The post BJP Names Candidates for Six More Assembly Seats in Odisha appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Bhubaneswar: The BJP Thursday declared a fresh list of candidates consisting of six names for the upcoming Assembly elections in Odisha. The party allotted tickets to Purnachandra Mohapatra for Barabati-Cuttack Assembly seat and Sudhanshu Nayak for Bhandaripokhari seat. With this announcement, the saffron party has released as many as 146 candidates out of 147 Assembly []
Wife of Martyred Soldier Pledges to Continue His Legacy in the Fight for Justice
Wife of Martyred Soldier Pledges to Continue His Legacy in the Fight for Justice Kalpana Soren, wife of former Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren, on Thursday said her husbands arrest was unexpected and it triggered a shock in the JMM and the family. In an exclusive interview with PTI, Kalpana said it is not in the DNA of tribals to bow and Hemant Soren would emerge stronger. ''We have full faith in the judiciary and we are waiting for Hemant to come out on bail and campaign for the Lok Sabha polls. He is innocent and has been trapped in a pre-planned conspiracy by the BJP-led government at the Centre,'' she said. Kalpana, who has emerged as a new face of the party, alleged that the BJP ''is a tyrannical force that is hell-bent to oppress the opposition.'' ''How will the Constitution be saved when you are arresting opposition leaders who are working for the poor, tribals and dalits. They (BJP) only tell lies. The saffron partys 400+ slogan has pushed the temperature here above 400 degrees. People of Jharkhand are seething in anger against the BJP government and will throw out this tyrannical force which is looting its rich mineral resources,'' she added. On her husband languishing in jail for over 90 days, Kalpana said, ''I have a question as to why all Enforcement Directorate (ED) action takes place only in opposition-ruled states.'' In the alleged rift in the family, Kalpana said, ''There is full unity. Hemant Jis brother was there during my nomination for Gandey bypoll on April 29.'' On her sister-in-law Sita Soren quitting the party, Kalpana said, ''It was her decision to part ways with JMM and my best wishes are always with her.'' Kalpana, 48, who is credited with infusing a new vigour into Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) rank and file after Soren's arrest earlier this year, said politics has never been her choice but circumstances thrust her into it. ''I will fight against injustice and dictatorial forces as bowing is not in tribal DNA. I will follow my husband's footsteps. He chose to court imprisonment rather than compromise his values. I am his better-half and will see to it that tyrannical forces get a befitting reply,'' Kalpana said. ''My husband's arrest by the ED was politically motivated and part of a plan to coerce him to join the BJP. His arrest is part of a plan by the central government to browbeat, intimidate and humiliate him but they will get a befitting reply in the elections,'' she said. Kalpana filed her nomination as the JMM candidate for Gandey assembly bypoll on April 29. Voting for the seat is scheduled on May 20 along with the parliamentary elections in the state. The seat in Giridih district fell vacant following the resignation of JMM MLA Sarfaraz Ahmad. Kalpana, a homemaker with MTech and MBA qualifications, completed her school education from Baripada in Odisha's Mayurbhanj district, and obtained her engineering and MBA degrees in Bhubaneswar. Her political journey began at the 51st foundation day celebration of the JMM here on March 4, when she claimed that a conspiracy had been orchestrated by her opponents ever since the Hemant Soren-led coalition government came to power in 2019. Hemant Soren was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in connection with a money laundering case linked to an alleged land scam on January 31. Speculations regarding Kalpana's candidacy arose following the resignation of Ahmad in December, with the BJP claiming it was to facilitate her candidature in case the ED issued summonses to her husband. Hemant Soren had, however, then dismissed rumours of Kalpana contesting from Gandey, calling it BJP's fabrication.
Im natural successor to Naveen Patnaiks great values, only BJP calls me outsider: Pandian
Bhubaneswar: Unfazed by the outsider barb of his opponents, Naveen Patnaiks closest associate Kartik Pandian has said he is a natural successor to all the great values of the Odisha Chief Minister and he will do everything under the sun to help his guru serve the people of the state. In a no-holds-barred attack on []
Change of guard in women's hockey team: Salima replaces Savita as skipper
Barring three changes, the squad was the same that took part in the Bhubaneswar and Rourkela legs of the Pro League in February this year
JHARKHAND: Kalpana Soren, wife of former Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren, on Thursday said that the people of Jharkhand are seething in anger against the BJP government and will throw out this tyrannical force which is looting its rich mineral resources. In an exclusive interview with PTI, Kalpana said her husband's arrest was unexpected and it triggered a shock in the JMM and the family. She said it is not in the DNA of tribals to bow and Hemant Soren would emerge stronger. We have full faith in the judiciary and we are waiting for Hemant to come out on bail and campaign for the Lok Sabha polls.He is innocent and has been trapped in a pre-planned conspiracy by the BJP-led government at the Centre, she said. Kalpana, who has emerged as a new face of the party, termed the BJP a tyrannical force that is allegedly hell-bent to oppress the opposition. How will the Constitution be saved when you are arresting opposition leaders who are working for the poor, tribals and dalits. They (BJP) only tell lies. The saffron party's 400+ slogan has pushed the temperature here above 400 degrees, she added. On her husband languishing in jail for over 90 days, Kalpana said, I have a question as to why all Enforcement Directorate (ED) action takes place only in opposition-ruled states. Jailed ex-Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren be freed soon after defeating tyrannical forces: Kalpana On the alleged rift in the family, Kalpana said, There is full unity. Hemant Ji's brother was there during my nomination for Gandey bypoll on April 29. On her sister-in-law Sita Soren quitting the party, Kalpana said, It was her decision to part ways with JMM and my best wishes are always with her. Kalpana, 48, who is credited with infusing a new vigour into Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) rank and file after Soren's arrest earlier this year, said politics has never been her choice but circumstances thrust her into it. I will fight against injustice and dictatorial forces as bowing is not in tribal DNA. I will follow my husband's footsteps. He chose to court imprisonment rather than compromise his values. I am his better-half and will see to it that tyrannical forces get a befitting reply, Kalpana said. My husband's arrest by the ED was politically motivated and part of a plan to coerce him to join the BJP. His arrest is part of a plan by the central government to browbeat, intimidate and humiliate him but they will get a befitting reply in the elections, she said. Kalpana filed her nomination as the JMM candidate for Gandey assembly bypoll on April 29. Voting for the seat is scheduled on May 20 along with the parliamentary elections in the state. The seat in Giridih district fell vacant following the resignation of JMM MLA Sarfaraz Ahmad. Kalpana Soren files nomination as JMM candidate from Gandey assembly seat Kalpana, a homemaker with MTech and MBA qualifications, completed her school education from Baripada in Odisha's Mayurbhanj district, and obtained her engineering and MBA degrees in Bhubaneswar. Her political journey began at the 51st foundation day celebration of the JMM here on March 4, when she claimed that a conspiracy had been orchestrated by her opponents ever since the Hemant Soren-led coalition government came to power in 2019. Hemant Soren was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in connection with a money laundering case linked to an alleged land scam on January 31. Speculations regarding Kalpana's candidacy arose following the resignation of Ahmad in December, with the BJP claiming it was to facilitate her candidature in case the ED issued summonses to her husband. Hemant Soren had, however, then dismissed rumours of Kalpana contesting from Gandey, calling it BJP's fabrication.
Bhubaneswar: Biju Janata Dal president and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Thursday announced the names of three candidates for the Assembly elections, declaring candidates for all 147 Assembly seats in the state. With the announcement of the ninth list of candidates, the BJD has changed its Deogarh Assembly candidate by replacing Arundhati Kumari Devi with []
BMC installs temporary Overhead Sheds at Traffic Junctions in Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar: With the aim to provide brief relief to the the commuters from of the ongoing scorching heatwave, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has started installing temporary overhead sheds at the traffic posts. The BMC has installed temporary overhead shed of a polythene canopy with the support of bamboo poles and strings at different [] The post BMC installs temporary Overhead Sheds at Traffic Junctions in Bhubaneswar appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Elections 2024: BJD Announces Candidate List For Remaining 3 Vidhan Sabha Seats
Bhubaneswar: The Biju Janta Dal (BJD) has announced candidates list for remaining three Vidhan Sabha seats in Odisha. The party has announced Sabitri Pradhan as candidate for Khandapada, Sukant Nayak for Nilagiri and Sandhya Rani Das from Korei. Meanwhile, the party has declared Romanch Ranjan Biswal as the new candidate for Deogarh assembly [] The post Elections 2024: BJD Announces Candidate List For Remaining 3 Vidhan Sabha Seats appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
ANALYSIS-Low turnout, apathy in India election a worry for Modi's campaign
ANALYSIS-Low turnout, apathy in India election a worry for Modi's campaign A lower turnout so far in Indias long general election has rattled Prime Minister Narendra Modis campaign managers, raising into question whether his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its allies can achieve the landslide victory predicted by opinion polls just one month ago. The lack of momentum has been partly blamed on apathy among party workers believing victory is assured and seems to have prompted Modi to change tack in his campaign speeches to try to fire up the Hindu majority, the partys support base, and get them out to voting stations, political analysts said. The last major opinion poll had predicted that the BJP and its allies could win three-fourths of parliament's 543 seats at stake on the back of Modi's popularity, strong economic growth, handouts and the inauguration of a Hindu temple on a contested site in the Hindu majority country. At the last election in 2019, the BJP won 303 seats and its allies won around 50 seats. Its slogan before this year's election began was Ab ki baar, 400 paar or This time, above 400. More than half a dozen BJP leaders and political analysts that Reuters spoke to said a lack of momentum in the two initial phases of the seven-phase election have dampened hopes of a huge majority for the party, although they said it was still likely to retain power in the world's most populous nation. What could be affected is the BJP's aim to get a two-thirds majority in the chamber, or 362 seats, which would let the party usher in far-reaching constitutional changes. The fall in polling turnout is mainly due to apathy among party workers and voters, said Sanjay Sharma, one of the members of the BJP's campaign committee in the northern state of Haryana. Some candidates were being affected by an anti-incumbency wave, he said, adding the party was facing a ough fight in the state where it won all ten parliamentary seats in 2019. Modi himself has shifted in his campaign speeches from a focus on the administration's successes in his 10-year tenure to targeting minority Muslims and the opposition Congress party. After the first phase, we saw a definite change of strategy by the PM...delivering Islamophobic kind of speeches, said Arati Jerath, a Delhi-based political commentator. Obviously, he has now decided to polarise the campaign. A total of 190 seats went to the polls on April 19 and 27 with approximate voter turnout at about 66%, the Election Commission has said. The number was only slightly lower than the last election in 2019, although there was a drop of 5-8 percentage points in voting in the BJP and allied-ruled states Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Rajasthan. The BJP had been hoping for a high turnout, believing that would signal that its supporters had voted in force. Polling ends on June 1 and votes will be counted on June 4. The government bans the publication of exit polls until all voting is concluded. 'BELOW EXPECTATIONS' Gopal Krishna Agarwal, BJP's national spokesman, said the voting numbers were elow expectations but would not have much impact on the final results. Many voters have become lethargic as they are convinced about the victory of the party, he said. The BJP's shift in tack may have backfired with some voters. We have lost interest because the BJP is seeking votes by communalising the campaign, and not on its performance, said Vikash Kumar, a voter in Rajnandgaon in the state of Chhattisgarh. Kamal Abbas, a Muslim shopkeeper in the city of Lucknow, the capital of politically vital Uttar Pradesh state, reflected the sense of apathy. He said he would not waste time and money to travel to his hometown Prayagraj to vote as Modi's party was set to win the election. Minority votes do not stand anywhere in the majoritarian government... there is no point in wasting time, he said. Anirudh Singh, one of the district campaign managers of the BJP in Uttar Pradesh, said the party would have reaped rich electoral dividends if the election was held during February-March, when fervour over the construction of the Ram Temple was at its peak. The party has failed to encash public support for Modi after the inauguration of the temple, said Singh, noting that the religious feel-good mood had by and large been replaced by issues like jobs and inflation. So far there's neither a communal wave, nor a Ram wave, nor a Modi wave in the election, said Jerath, the political commentator, noting Modi would have to re-invigorate his party workers and supporters if he hoped for a sweep. After being battered by Modi in the two last general elections, opposition parties are hopeful of a better performance. The shift in the language and style of Modi's campaign reflected a sense of nervousness, said Jairam Ramesh, a Congress party general secretary. The initial voting trends show there is no Modi wave. In states where we were wiped out in 2019, this time the trends are encouraging, he said. Gilles Verniers, a political analyst who teaches at Amherst College in Massachusetts, said the BJP appeared to have revised its expectations and was feeling a bit rattled at the moment. But it's still a very long campaign. There's still room for events and surprises that may alter the course of the election, he said. The balance of probability continues to tilt in favour of the BJP, but not maybe as strongly as they would have hoped. (Additional reporting by Jatindra Dash in BHUBANESWAR, Saurabh Sharma in LUCKNOW; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan)
Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik Files Nomination from Kantabanji Assembly Seat
Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president Naveen Patnaik filed his nomination paper from theKantabanji assembly seat on Thursday. CM Patnaik is contesting the Assembly elections from Kantabanji and Hinjili Assembly seats. The Chief Minister kicked off the election campaign from Hinjili constituency on April 24.
Balasore Records Highest With 40.6 Degrees At 11.30 AM
Bhubaneswar: Despite relief from extreme heatwave in Odisha due to Kalbaisakhi, Balasore has recorded highest temperature with 40.6 degree Celsius at 11.30 pm today. According to data given by the regional centre of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Balasore recorded highest followed by Jharsuguda and Keonjhar with mercury standing at 40 degree Celsius. Temperature [] The post Balasore Records Highest With 40.6 Degrees At 11.30 AM appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
VIDEO: Hailstorm cracks windshield, Bhubaneswar-Delhi Vistara flight makes emergency landing
The Bhubaneswar-Delhi Vistara flight made an emergency landing, ten minutes after takeoff from the Biju Patnaik International Airport(BPIA) on Wednesday, after it was hit by a hailstorm.
Balasore: Bus Crashes Into Truck, Three Injured, Hospitalised
Balasore: At least three persons were injured after a passenger bus crashed into a truck on NH 16 under Basta police station in Balasore district on Thursday. According to the reports, the bus carrying about 60 passengers was on its way to Digha from Bhubaneswar. Near Barungadia, the bus driver lost control of the wheels [] The post Balasore: Bus Crashes Into Truck, Three Injured, Hospitalised appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Odisha CM arrives in Kantabanji to file nomination papers
Bhubaneswar: Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik, who is contesting from Hinjili assembly constituency in Ganjam district, arrived in Kantabanji to file for his second nomination. Accompanied by his trusted aide, V K Pandian, he will formally submit the papers at the Deputy District Collectors office in Titlagarh. Patnaiks schedule includes arriving at Tusura Airstrip [] The post Odisha CM arrives in Kantabanji to file nomination papers appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
DRDO successfully test fires anti-submarine SMART system
BHUBANESWAR: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Wednesday successfully flight tested the Supersonic Missile-Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART) system from a test facility off the Odisha coast. Defence sources said the anti-submarine system was tested from a ground-based mobile launcher positioned at the launching complex 4 of Abdul Kalam Island. Designed and developed by DRDO, SMART is a next-generation missile-based lightweight torpedo delivery system that will enhance the anti-submarine warfare capability of the Indian Navy far beyond the conventional range of lightweight torpedo. This canister-based missile system consists of several advanced sub-systems, including a two-stage solid propulsion system, an electromechanical actuator system and a precision inertial navigation system. SMART carries an advanced light-weight torpedo as payload along with a parachute-based release system. Several state-of-the-art mechanisms such as symmetric separation, ejection and velocity control have been validated during the test. The system will undergo two/three more developmental trials before going into user phase tests, said a defence official. Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO, Samir V Kamat, lauded the synergistic efforts of the entire SMART team and urged it to continue on the path of excellence. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has complimented the DRDO and the industry partners on the successful flight test of SMART. The development of the system will further enhance the strength of our Navy, he said.
Delhi-bound Vistara flight returns to Bhubaneswar after facing hailstorm
The weather system led to cracks in the planes windshield and minor damage to the nose of the aircraft; DGCA is investigating the incident
Bhubaneswar-Delhi flight makes emergency landing after hit by hailstorm
The News Mill
Travel tips: If you are going to visit Odisha, definitely explore these 8 offbeat destinations.
People who are fond of traveling like to visit a new destination every time. It is being seen that at this time people prefer to visit the religious place Jagannath Puri, which is located in Odisha. Whenever people plan to visit Jagannath, they also like to explore the famous places around there. On the other hand, if we talk about exploring offbeat places, then the excitement of traveling becomes double, because these offbeat destinations are quiet and beautiful, away from the hustle and bustle of cities. In such a situation, today we have brought for you information about some offbeat destinations of Odisha, where visiting will make your journey exciting. Let us know about these places... Jaipur If you like natural beauty then you should visit Jaipur. Here you get to see big rocks, beautiful waterfalls, and lush green valleys from far and wide and their memories remain in your mind for a long time. In Jaipur, you can visit Gupteshwar Caves, Sunabeda, Duduma Falls, Jagannath Sagar, Hatipathar, and Kolab Falls. Nearby is Devamali Peak, which is the highest peak of Odisha. Raghurajpur This small village of Odisha is an open museum of arts and handicrafts. Where every person in the village is associated with this artistic craft and handicraft. The artists here create magic on artisanal cloth, paper, and palm leaves with their skilled hands. Besides, the people here are also experts in various varieties of handicrafts like leaf carving, and stone carving. Every person in the village has inherited this art from his ancestors. Coming here you can see the murals painted on the outer walls of every house. Barbil Barbil is a small beautiful destination on the banks of Karo River in Kendujhar. Although not many people know about it, the dense forests here and the natural beauty away from the noise of the city fascinate you. Here you can visit Hawa Mahal, Gonasika, Thakurani Hills, Murga Mahadev Waterfalls, Uliburu Reserve Forest, Hanuman Temple Shiva Temple, etc. Rourkela Rourkela City is located in the Sundergarh district of Odisha. Rourkela city is famous all over India as the steel city. SAIL has its steel plant in this city, hence this city is called Steel City. A special thing about this city is that it is called Mini India because if seen in the whole of Odisha, Rourkela is a city where people from all over India live. Rourkela City is the second smart city in Odisha after Bhubaneswar. Rourkela City industrial area Despite this, the environment here is very good and it is a very beautiful place to visit. Savor local Oriya delicacies like Chungri Malai, Dahi Matka, and Bhindi Bhun during your visit to Rourkela. In these, you will get a combination of South-Indian and Bengali flavors. Paradeep Paradeep of Odisha is famous for its seaports. You can see big ships in Paradip, situated at the confluence of the Bay of Bengal and the Mahanadi. Here you can visit places like Gahirmatha Sanctuary, Beach, Lighthouse, and Jhankar along with Paradip Port. Berhampur Brahmapur or Berhampur as it is called, is the largest city and gateway to southern Odisha. Brahmapur is a city located on the east coast of the eastern Indian state of Odisha. It is the third largest city in Odisha with a population of 350,000. It is a business center. Brahmapur is also known as Silk City because of its famous silk band sarees. The city is known for its love of theater and cinema. Truly Ganjam Arts Council and Prakasam Hall is one of the oldest theater halls in the country. Shri Sitaram Shishiyan Talkies is the oldest cinema hall in Odisha which was established in 1927. Sambalpur This area is also not very famous. Here you get to see natural beauty and many historical places and visiting them is a unique experience for you. Here you can enjoy visiting places like Hirakud Dam, Cattle Island, Pichalima, Huma, Samleshwari Temple, Vikramkhol, Hatibadi, and Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary. Gopalpur Gopalpur is a coastal town situated on the southern borderline of Orissa. This place is situated near the Bay of Bengal. Earlier Gopalpur was known as a small fishing village but after the British came to power the fortunes of this village changed. This port was used as an important trading center by the Easton India Company. The city is located close to Andhra Pradesh and that is why it offers many important benefits. Several religious places are also located here, including Mata Tara Tarini Hill Tirtha, Bala Kumari Temple, and Sri Sri Siddhi Vinayak Peeth. You can visit Sonpur Beach, Aryapali Beach, and Gopalpur Beach here. (PC: LIifeberrys)
Vistara flight makes emergency landing at Bhubaneswar airport, passengers safe
The New Delhi-bound Vistara flight landed back at the Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) here barely 10 minutes after taking off, the officials said. The aircraft's windshield developed a crack due to the hailstorm that lashed several parts of Odisha this afternoon.
Rain-soaked Odisha gets respite from scorching heat as thunderstorm hits
Rain-soaked Odisha gets respite from scorching heat as thunderstorm hits Thunderstorms along with rain brought respite from the prevailing heatwave conditions in some coastal districts of Odisha on Wednesday, even as 15 towns in the state recorded temperatures of 43 Celsius or above. Thunderstorms along with rain, lightning and hailstorms occurred in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Banki, Athagarh, and some other places in the state this afternoon, an IMD official said. Lightning along with rainfall would occur in the south coastal, north coastal, and neighbouring coastal districts of Odisha in the next 24 hours, the official said. The districts of Rayagada, Gajapati, Dhenkanal, Mayurbhanj, Balasore, Kendrapara, Cuttack, Nayagarh and south interior pockets would witness rainfall, said Manorama Mohanty, director, Bhubaneswar Meteorological Centre. The temperatures may fall by 1 to 2 degrees Celsius due to rainfall activities. However, severe heatwave conditions would continue in the state for the next few days, she said. ''We have issued a red alert for heatwave in some districts in the next two days while an orange warning is issued for another two days and then yellow warning. It shows that the temperature would gradually come down in many parts of the state,'' Mohanty said. She said that the day temperature would fall by 4 to 5 degrees Celsius in the state after May 5. On Wednesday, 15 towns in Odisha recorded a maximum temperature of 43 degrees Celsius or above. The coal town of Talcher was the hottest place in the state at 45 degrees Celsius, followed by Boudh and Titlagarh with 44.5 degrees each. Nuapada town in western Odisha recorded a temperature of 44.4 degrees Celsius while it was 44.3 degrees at Angul and Jharsuguda, 44 degrees at Bolangir and 43.8 degrees at Baripada.
Vistara flight makes emergency landing at Bhubaneswar airport after being hit by hailstorm
Bhubaneswar: A flight from Bhubaneswar to New Delhi returned minutes after take-off and made an emergency landing after the aircraft was caught in a hailstorm and suffered damage Wednesday, an official said. The 169 passengers and crew on board are safe. The New Delhi-bound Vistara flight landed back at the Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) []
Delhi-Bound Vistara Flight Makes Emergency Landing At Bhubaneswar Airport Minutes After Take-Off
Initial reports suggest that the windshield of the aircraft developed a crack in the hailstorm that hit several parts of Odisha today
India successfully flight-tests Supersonic Missile-Assisted Release of Torpedo
Bhubaneswar: India on Wednesday successfully flight-tested Supersonic Missile-Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART) system from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha. The SMART was flight-tested at around 8.30 am. SMART is a next-generation missile-based light-weight torpedo delivery system, designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to enhance the anti-submarine warfare capability of the Indian Navy far beyond the conventional range of lightweight torpedo. This canister-based missile system consists of several advanced sub-systems, namely two-stage solid propulsion system, electromechanical actuator system and precision inertial navigation system. The system carries an advanced light-weight torpedo as payload along with a parachute-based release system. The missile was launched from the ground mobile launcher. Several state-of-the-art mechanisms such as symmetric separation, ejection and velocity control have been validated in this test. Defence minister Rajnath Singh has complimented the DRDO and the industry partners on the successful flight-test of SMART. The development of the system will further enhance the strength of our Navy, he said. Secretary, department of defence R&D and chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat lauded the synergistic efforts of the entire SMART team and urged it to continue on the path of excellence.
Norwester Rain Brings Slight Relief From Sizzling Heat
Bhubaneswar: After experiencing rainfall due to Norwester, Odisha has now received some relief from the scorching heat. Rain shower was experienced in Twin cities of Cuttack And Bhubaneswar along with several other parts of Odisha. The sizzling temperatures have come down in most parts. Twin cities and many parts of the state experienced rains [] The post Norwester Rain Brings Slight Relief From Sizzling Heat appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
PM Modi likely to address 2 poll rallies in Odisha on May 6
Bhubaneswar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit the state on May 6, informed state BJP leader Golak Mohapatra on Wednesday. Speaking to reporters here, Mohapatra said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be addressing two election rallies in Odisha on May 6. Sharing the schedule, the BJP leader said that PM Narendra Modi will first address a massive public meeting at around 10 am in Berhampur. Later, he will address another huge gathering in Nabarangpur at 12:30 pm. PM Narendra Modi is an inspiration and the people of Odisha are eagerly waiting for his visit to the state. Be it PM Awas yojana, toilets and others, there is massive corruption in Odisha. Apart from this, Odia language, literature and Odia Asmita is in danger. The governance is in the hands of non-Odias. BJP is worried over such a situation in the state. PM Modi has expressed his concern as well, said Mohapatra.
Vistara flight makes emergency landing in Bhubaneswar after windshield damage
Bhubaneswar: Bhubaneswar-Delhi Vistara flight on Wednesday made an emergency landing at Bhubaneswar International Airport minutes after its take off. As per initial reports, the windshield of the Vistara flight reportedly developed a crack in the hailstorm that lashed several parts of Odisha this afternoon. Confirming the development, Bhubaneswar Airport Director Prasanna Pradhan informed that apart from the windshield, some portions of the structure also suffered some damage. The flight had departed from Bhubaneswar at around 1:45 pm and the aircraft sought assistance to land back after 10 minutes on priority. The aircrafts windshield developed a crack along with some damage to the structure, said Pradhan. Following the incident, the flight landed safely without any assistance. As per reports, there were around 170 to 180 passengers onboard the flight and all of them were safe. All the passengers are waiting at the airport and another flight is being arranged to carry the passengers. Only after necessary repairs, the flight would leave. It was a normal landing at the airport, Pradhan added.
Vistara flight makes emergency landing in Bhubaneswar after windshield cracks midair
Vistara flight makes emergency landing at Bhubaneswar airport after hailstones crack windshield
Bhubaneswar: A New Delhi-bound Vistara Airlines flight made an emergency landing at Bhubaneswar airport within 10 minutes of take off after the planes windshield suffered cracks due to a hailstones. According to Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) Director Prasanna Pradhan, the flight carrying 170 passengers landed safely at the airport. An alternate flight is being [] The post Vistara flight makes emergency landing at Bhubaneswar airport after hailstones crack windshield appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Odisha records highest-ever collection of Gross GST of Rs.5902.25 Cr
Bhubaneswar: Odisha has recorded the highest ever collection of Gross GST (CGST+ IGST+OGST + Cess) with a collection of Rs. 5902.25 Cr during April 2024 against corresponding collection of Rs. 5035.74 Cr recorded during April 2023 registering a growth rate of 17.21% as against the National average growth rate of 13%. Odisha has also recorded [] The post Odisha records highest-ever collection of Gross GST of Rs.5902.25 Cr appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Pranab files papers for Sambalpur LS seat
Pranab Prakash Das filed Sambalpur Lok Sabha nomination against Dharmendra Pradhan & Nagendra Pradhan. Wore blue Sambalpuri shirt. CM Naveen Patnaik's video wish. Das sought blessings at Somnath Temple & Veer Surendra Sai statue. Sambalpur voting on May 25.
Pandian's campaign style: Selfie with crowd, accounts of work done
In Malkangiri, Sanjukta Patra takes a selfie with V K Pandian. Pandian's campaign style involves selfies, crowd interaction, and emphasis on the state's progress under the Naveen government, showcasing infrastructure improvements and healthcare initiatives.
Naveen files nomination from Hinjili, aims for 6th straight win
Naveen Patnaik files nomination papers from Hinjili for a sixth term in Ganjam district. He visits Tara Tarini Temple for blessings, discloses Rs 71.07 crore assets, and campaigns in Hinjili and Sheragada.
Severe heat wave forecast in W Bengal Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand; isolated rains predicted over Kerala, TN The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday has issued a red alert for Severe heatwave conditions in Gangetic West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, and Jharkhand for Wednesday and Thursday. On Tuesday Kalaikunda, located in Gangetic West Bengal, recorded the highest temperature in the country at a sweltering 47.2 degrees Celsius. As per a warning issued at 9.30 am today the Met Department has said that Heat wave to Severe Heat Wave condition very likely to prevail in the districts of Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Angul, Dhenkanal, Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Cuttack and Boudh.Heat wave condition very likely to prevail in the districts of Deogarh, Sambalpur, Bargarh, Bolangir, Kalahandi, Sonepur, Nuapada, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Khurda, Nayagarh, Malkangiri, , Nawarangpur, Gajapati, Rayagada. It further said that hot and humid weather condition very likely to prevail in the districts of Koraput, Puri, Ganjam. According to the technical definition, it is considered to be a heat wave if maximum temperature of a station reaches at least 40 degree Celsius or more for the plains and at least 30 degree or more for hilly regions. According to the IMD strong surface winds (25-35 kmph) very likely to prevail over Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi for today and tomorrow. Also a trough/wind discontinuity runs from southeast Madhya Pradesh to South Interior Karnataka in lower tropospheric levels and under its influence, isolated to scattered, light to moderate rainfall accompanied with thunderstorm and lightning very likely over Kerala and Mahe and Tamil Nadu during next 7 days and Lakshadweep today. Yesterday, the lowest minimum temperature of 13.2 degree Celsius was reported at Amritsar. According to the weather department, heat wave to severe heat wave conditions have prevailed in most areas of Gangetic West Bengal. Additionally, several parts of Bihar, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Odisha are experiencing similar weather patterns, with isolated heat wave pockets reported in the Konkan region. Meanwhile, the state of Odisha is reeling under intense heat as 30 cities reported more than 41 degrees and 29 cities recorded 42 degrees Celsius and above. Baripada, a town in the Mayurbhanj district, has recorded a scorching 46.4 degrees Celsius, while the coastal district of Balasore reached 46 degrees Celsius marking its all-time highest temperature in the last 10 years. The Director of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Bhubaneswar, Manorama Mohanty said, In Odisha, 30 cities reported 41 degrees Celsius and above and 29 cities recorded 42 degrees Celsius and above. Baripada in Mayurbanj district reported 46.4 degrees Celsius. Balasore reported 46 degrees Celsius which is the highest temperature recorded in the last 10 years. As Balasore is a coastal district and due to disturbances in nature, these types of problems are arising, she added informing about the cause of such a high temperature in the coastal district of Balasore. She also said that a red alert has been issued for the district of interior Odisha for the next three days starting from Tuesday. These unprecedented temperatures are largely due to the prevailing north-westerly/westerly dry air combined with high solar insolation. This weather pattern is causing temperatures across Odisha to rise, said Mohanty. IMD Director further said that day temperature is very likely to rise slightly by 3 degrees Celsius to 6 degrees Celsius over some districts of Odisha during the next 4 to 5 days. Mohanty advised people to take precautions, especially during peak hours from 11am to 4 pm. Yesterday, maximum temperatures were in the range of 43-46 degree Celsius over many parts of Gangetic West Bengal and Odisha; in some parts of Jharkhand, Telangana and Rayalaseema and in isolated pockets of Madhya Maharashtra The temperature was in the range of 40 degree Celsius to 43 degree Celsius over many parts of Bihar, East Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha and Chhattisgarh; in some parts of East Uttar Pradesh, Marathawada, Gujarat, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu and in isolated pockets of West Madhya Pradesh and North Interior Karnataka. These were above normal by 4-8 degree Celsius in many parts of Gangetic West Bengal and Bihar; in some parts of Odisha and in isolated pockets of Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Jharkhand, Gujarat, Konkan, Telangana and Kerala. (ANI)
Man gets 20-year RI for minors rape in Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar: The Fast Track Special Court in Bhubaneswar Tuesday awarded 20 years of rigorous imprisonment (RI) to a 30-year-old man after holding him guilty of raping a minor girl in 2018. The court also slapped a penalty of Rs10,000 on the convict, identified as Ramjan Khan from Raghunath Nagar under Khandagiri police limits in Khurda, []
Only 196 Odia NRIs enrol to vote in these elections
BHUBANESWAR: A significant percentage of Odia population living abroad may not vote this time too. Because, the logistics for doing so still does not work out for them. Only 196 Odias living in other countries have enrolled as overseas/NRI voters for this Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in the state. Gender wise, 156 of them are male and 40 female. According to the World Odisha Society (WOS), which is the highest and apex organisation of the Odia diaspora worldwide, there are over a million Odias residing in countries outside India. And an average of 60 per cent of this population is eligible to vote. Official reports from the chief electoral officer state that the overseas/NRI electors had not participated in the 2019 and 2014 elections in Odisha. As per the Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines, an overseas elector is not issued an EPIC and they are allowed to vote in person at the polling station on production of their original passport. This, members of the Odia diaspora said, is the biggest impediment for Odias living abroad. A native of Sambalpur Sudhashree Das, who currently resides in Dubai, said the norms of physical voting have been the biggest impediment for Odias living abroad. The lack of provisions for remote or overseas voting in the states electoral system is the roadblock. Odisha, like many other states, does not have a mechanism in place for expatriates to cast their votes from abroad. This means that unless we are physically present during the voting period, we cannot vote, she explained. An overseas voter from Bhubaneswar, Madhumita Sahoo, who resides in London, said only a limited number of people whose travel plans to Odisha coincide with the voting period can enrol to vote. Otherwise, travelling back to your state just to vote is an expensive affair, she said. CEO officials said since most of the Odias living abroad renounce Indian citizenship, they cannot be forced to vote. As per the existing provisions, after enrolling, they can show their passports at polling booths to vote, said a higher official. Although in 2020, the ECI proposed to the Law Ministry to extend the facility of postal ballots to eligible NRIs by amending the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961, Government of India did not take a call on it.
Odisha MLA Soumya hints about joining BJP, contesting from Ghasipura Assembly seat
BHUBANESWAR: After maintaining a low profile for more than seven months after his expulsion from the BJD, Khandapada MLA Soumya Ranjan Patnaik on Tuesday hinted that he may contest from Ghasipura Assembly constituency of Keonjhar district on a BJP ticket. Talking to reporters at Ghatagaon after offering prayers at Maa Tarini shrine, Patnaik said there have been offers from different political parties including the BJP. The offer from the saffron party came through state unit president Manmohan Samal, he said. There has been requests from different political and non-political groups of Ghatagaon and Ghasipura blocks to take the responsibility of this Assembly constituency by accepting the BJP offer. I have come here to seek the blessing of Maa Tarini and her guidance to chart out my next course of action. I have left it to the BJP to take a decision about my candidature. Everything will be clear within a day or two, he said. Asked if there was any chance of his accepting the offer by the BJD for renomination from Khandapada, Patnaik said, I was elected on a BJD ticket from the seat with a highest margin but the party has expelled me for anti-people activities. I am yet to figure out why the party has not announced any candidate for the seat. To a query on his winning chances from Ghasipura, which is now a fort of sitting BJD MLA Badri Narayan Patra after winning the seat five times (two times from erstwhile Ramanchadrapur seat which became Ghasipura after delimitation in 2008), Patnaik said, Patra had tasted victory five times while I have had the experience losing many elections. I dont fear another loss. He further said Patra has been winning elections by using muscle and money power. A time will come when a fort falls and may that happen this time as people are now fed up with the hooliganism of his family, Patnaik said. The younger brother of senior Congress leader and Patras bitter rival Niranjan Patnaik, he said many Congress leaders of the constituency have extended their support to him even after learning that he may get nomination from the BJP. Earlier in the day, Patnaik had gone to Puri to pay obeisance to Lord Jagannath from where he proceeded to Ghatagaon. On the way to Maa Tarini temple, he was accorded receptions at many places by local people.
Odisha BJP lodges FIR against Majhi, Pandian over Amit Shah video
BHUBANESWAR: The BJP on Tuesday lodged an FIR against BJD candidate from Nabarangpur Lok Sabha seat Pradip Majhi and 5T chairman VK Pandian accusing them of inciting violence in the state by exhibiting a doctored video of Union Minister Amit Shahs speech on reservation issue at election rallies. Registering the complaint in the Cyber police station of the city, the BJP demanded that the two BJD leaders be booked under relevant section of IPC and IT Act for allegedly vitiating the election atmosphere and promoting enmity among religious groups. This is a deliberate attempt to encourage tribals to resort to violence, they said. Senior BJP leader Samir Mohanty who led a delegation of the party to the Cyber police station, alleged former MP Majhi has circulated the fake video at election rallies with instruction from Pandian. Mohanty said, fearing a defeat at the hands of BJP in the upcoming polls, the BJD and Congress are now sailing in the same boat. This is their last ditch attempt to win the election by targeting Amit Shah, one of the most popular leaders in the country, he added. Launching a scathing attack on the BJD, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said the video shown to the people at an election rally at Nabarangpur by Majhi has been proved to be fake and cases have already been filed against the Telangana Chief Minister and others in several states. He said Majhi has done this to please his political master. Such slander against the union Home minister is not acceptable and the BJP condemned such action. I have also appealed the Election Commission of India to take notice of it and initiated appropriate legal action against Majhi. I have also requested my party leaders to register a complaint with the chief electoral officer and police station, he said at a rally in Deogarh. Dubbing the BJD anti-tribal, Pradhan asked, Who made the cabinet decision to sell tribal land? What was the intention behind the decision to allow sale of tribal land? Was it to hand over the tribal land to capitalist and industrialists? Alleging that it was conspiracy by the BJD to subjugate the poor and innocent tribals of the state, Pradhan dared the chief minister to clarify this if he has any morals.
Odisha CM Naveen files nomination papers for Hinjili Assembly seat
BHUBANESWAR/BERHAMPUR: Chief minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday filed his nomination papers from the Hinjili Assembly constituency, from where he will be seeking victory for the sixth consecutive time. Voting in the constituency that comes under the Aska Lok Sabha seat is scheduled to be held on May 20 in the second phase polls for Odisha. The chief minister is also fighting election from Kantabanji seat in Bolangir which will also go to polls on May 20. The date of his filing nomination from the second seat is yet to be announced. Naveen accompanied by his trusted lieutenant VK Pandian visited the Maa Tara Tarini temple and took the blessings of the Goddess before filing his nomination papers. Thousands of party workers and general public had gathered in front of the sub-collectors office at Chhatrapur to welcome Naveen before he filed his nomination. BJDs Lok Sabha candidates for Berhampur and Aska seats Bhrugu Baxipatra and Ranjita Sahu respectively, all the Assembly candidates of Ganjam district, state Finance minister Bikram Keshari Arukha, chairman of the BJD manifesto committee and former Union minister Chandra Sekhar Sahu were present with the chief minister. Naveen had won from the Hinjili seat for the first time in 2000 with a margin of over 29,800 votes. In subsequent elections in 2004 and 2009, his margin increased to 42,642 and 61,773 votes. In 2014 and 2019, the victory margin was 76,586 and 60,160 votes respectively. Party sources said that the BJDs target this time is to ensure that the chief minister gets more than 1.2 lakh votes. He had polled 94,065 votes in 2019 and his nearest BJP rival Pitambar Acharya got 33,905 votes. Sources said Naveen is scheduled to address public rallies at Khallikote, Kabisurjyanagar, Digapahandi and Chhatrapur on May 1. Besides, he will also visit Bhanjanagar, Polasara, Sanakhemundi and Surada on May 3.
Departments asked to stay prepared for summer cyclone in Odisha
BHUBANESWAR: The state government on Tuesday asked departments concerned and district collectors to stay alert for handling any emergency situation arising out of the weather system even as there is no possibility of cyclone within the next 15 days. Even though India Meteorological Department (IMD) has not issued any forecast of cyclone, chief secretary Pradeep Jena reviewed the situation at a high-level meeting convened by Special Relief Commissioner Satyabrat Sahu at the state secretariat. Recalling the devastation caused by cyclone Fani in May 2019, Jena said the state is fully prepared to face any eventualities in case of any change in weather condition. He said instructions have been issued to departments concerned to stay prepared to face any calamitous situation.
Mobile health unit to be deployed in gram panchayats during polls
BHUBANESWAR: With an unrelenting heatwave scorching several parts of Odisha, the state government has decided to deploy a mobile health unit (MHU) for a cluster of panchayats to attend emergency calls of heat stroke to voters and polling officials during simultaneous elections in the state. The MHUs with one AYUSH doctor and one paramedical staff will be stationed at strategic locations for a cluster of GPs. Besides, one paramedical staff will accompany the sector officers in their vehicles along with essential medicines. Sources said one doctor/paramedical staff will be deployed at all training venues of polling personnel in refresher or second round of training to orient the polling personnel on symptoms of heat-related illnesses and appropriate response procedures. Air ambulance facilities will also be arranged as and when required during the elections for emergency evacuation of polling and police personnel injured in any incident. The Health and Family Welfare department has been asked to make the arrangement at the earliest. As per the instructions of Election Commission of India (ECI), a village-level worker will be deployed at each polling station location (PSL) to attend to any emergency in view of possible heatwave situations. All persons on election duty will be provided cashless treatment in nearby empanelled private hospitals inside the state in case of heat stroke. One NCC/NSS/scout and guide/ranger and rover or youth red cross/student police cadet (SPC) volunteer aged between 14 to 18 years will be deployed in PSLs to manage the voters queue and provide assistance to specially-abled voters and senior citizens. They will be paid remuneration. Additional director of medical education and training Dr Umakanta Satpathy will be the nodal officer for the air ambulance facility. It has also been decided to move a proposal to ECI for grant of permission for engagement of ASHA workers at all PSLs. A senior health official said several measures are being taken to mitigate the heatwave during the election days, especially during the poll days and counting day in view of IMD reports and advisory of the ECI.
Centre eases norms but Odisha insists on autopsy reports on sunstroke deaths
BHUBANESWAR: Even as the Centre has made it clear that autopsy is not mandatory in all cases of heat-related deaths as the postmortem findings are nonspecific, the state government continues to insist on the outcome of the autopsy to announce sunstroke deaths. Over a dozen people have reportedly died in several parts of the state. But the state government has confirmed only two deaths and 367 heatwave-related illnesses so far. Official sources said Laxmikanta Sahu (62) of Balasore and Nimai Charan Rout (50) of Dhenkanal died of sunstroke on April 23 and 29 respectively. Although at least 14 allegations of sunstroke deaths have been received from 11 districts, those are yet to be confirmed due to lack of postmortem reports. Other deaths pending for enquiry sans autopsy reports included three from Balangir, two from Mayurbhanj and one each from 10 other districts. After a study on sunstroke-related deaths last month, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare had intimated the states that the diagnosis of heat-related death be based on a history of exposure to high ambient temperature and reasonable exclusion of other causes of hyperthermia (abnormally high body temperature). Accordingly, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) issued a guideline asking states to establish the diagnosis from the circumstances surrounding the death, investigative reports concerning environmental temperature, and/or measured antemortem body temperature at the time of collapse. The NCDC has also clarified that if the investigation provides compelling evidence of continuous exposure to a hot environment but fails to identify an independent cause of death, it can be certified as heat-related, with the disease being considered a significant contributing condition, or vice versa as such deaths occur in persons having some preexisting disease known to be exacerbated by heat stress. But, sources said, the Odisha government has been adhering to the old guideline and seeking autopsy reports to announce sunstroke deaths. Besides, there is also a disparity in compensation. Except for sunstroke, the amount of ex-gratia for disaster related deaths has been raised from Rs 4 lakh to Rs 6 lakh since May last year. The Revenue and Disaster Management department, however, pays only Rs 50,000 for sunstroke deaths.
Odisha records longest heatwave in nine years, Baripada hottest at 46.4 degrees Celsius
BHUBANESWAR: With the state bearing the brunt of a blazing heatwave since the last 15 days making it one of the longest spells since 2016, IMD officials on Tuesday said Baripada, Balasore and state capital Bhubaneswar figured in the list of top 10 hottest places in the world on the day. While day temperature for the month of April broke all records in Baripada and Balasore, Bhubaneswar sizzled at over 45 degree Celsius. Of the 10 hottest places, Baripada stood second in the list followed by Balasore at third and Bhubaneswar at 10th. Joba in Oman topped the list, IMD sources said. Met officials said Baripada stood the hottest in the state at 46.4 degree C which is an all-time high day temperature for the station in the month of April. The previous highest temperature of 46.1 degree Celsius had been recorded in the north Odisha town on April 21, 2010. Similarly, Balasore also recorded 46 degree Celsius, a departure of 10.1 degree Celsius than the normal temperature and an all-time record for the coastal town in the month of April. The city had previously recorded temperature of 45 degree Celsius in April. Capital Bhubaneswar, meanwhile, also recorded 45.4 degree Celsius, which according to the IMD, is the second highest temperature for the city in the month of April so far. The city had recorded the highest temperature of 45.8 degree C on April 11, 2016. With no end in sight to the intense heatwave, many places turned into heat chambers prompting the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) to issue advisory to district collectors to exercise adequate caution. Temperature soared past 42 degree C in around 29 stations and 44 degree Celsius in 15 stations, weather scientists said. Met officials said this prolonged heatwave that dragged for 15 days straight, has already become the longest spell in last nine years. The previous longest spell of 20 days in parts of the state had been recorded from April 7 to 26 in 2016. The heatwave during this period had largely persisted over Chandbali, director of Bhubaneswar Met Centre Manorama Mohanty said adding, in Bhubaneswar such long dry spell had persisted from April 16 to May 5 in 2014. Mohanty further said the current spell of heatwave days is also the longest in last five years (from 2020 to 2024) as the previous longest heatwave spell of 12 days had been recorded in the state in June 2023. The northwesterly and westerly dry air and high solar insolation are the main reasons of the increased number of heat days in the state at present, she stated. Meanwhile, IMD forecast also suggested that heatwave will continue for another five days in which severe heatwave conditions could prevail in parts of Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Angul, Dhenkanal, Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Cuttack and Boudh. SOARING MERCURY Balasore records 46 degree C, Bbsr 45.4 degree C Temp soared past 42 degree C in 29 stations, 44 degree Celsius in 15 stations This is the longest heatwave since 2016 Severe heatwave alert in 11 districts
Rebellion in BJP and Congress puts BJD in pole position in Rourkela
ROURKELA: Amid the fast changing electoral dynamics in Rourkela Assembly constituency, the ruling BJD seems to be in prime position ahead of the elections. After being denied ticket, disgruntled BJP leader Nihar Ray is all set to contest as a rebel against his former mentor and the saffron partys candidate from Rourkela Dilip Ray. Similarly, general secretary of Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) and ticket aspirant Biren Senapati, who resigned from the grand old party a few days back, will join the BJD along with his supporters. Political observers said both these developments will certainly benefit the ruling party which is expecting to face a tough fight in the Assembly seat. Former union minister Dilip recently returned to the BJP as its Rourkela candidate after a five-year hiatus from active politics. Sources said his return has created huge enthusiasm among his followers and simultaneously put the BJP in a position of strength against the strong BJD candidate Sarada Prasad Nayak. However, it has angered Nihar, who in 2019 had lost to Sarada by 10,460 votes. Revolting against Dilip, he had asserted claim on BJP nomination from the prestigious Rourkela seat. Efforts of Dilip and BJPs Sundargarh Lok Sabha candidate Jual Oram to persuade Nihar also failed to cut ice. Nihars supporters claimed he would file nomination as an Independent candidate on May 2. Contacted, Nihar neither confirmed nor denied the claim. He said everything would become clear on May 3. Poll pundits feel the possibility of Nihar contesting as a BJP rebel is music to the BJDs ears, especially when Dilip remains a formidable opponent. Similarly, Biren along with 12 functionaries of Rourkela district Congress committee (RDCC) and NSUI are in Bhubaneswar to join the BJD after quitting the grand old party on Monday. Kailash Chandra Sahoo, who resigned from the post of the national joint coordinator for the OBC wing of All India Congress Committee (AICC), confirmed that they are set to join BJD under the leadership of Biren. He blamed the OPCC and AICC for finalising Congress candidate BN Patnaik without the knowledge or consent of local leaders. BJD insiders said the latest developments will put BJD in the driving seat and help it win in Rourkela.
Those on bail should be sent back to jail: Odisha 5T chairman Pandian
BERHAMPUR/BHUBANESWAR: Continuing his campaign in Ganjam and Gajapati districts for BJD candidates in the ensuing elections, 5T chairman and BJD leader VK Pandian on Tuesday said that those on bail should be sent back to jail again and not to the Parliament. Without naming anybody in his speech, the 5T chairman said the best place for criminals is jail but the Opposition political parties have made them candidates, adding that they should be shown their proper place. Pandian visited Mohana Assembly segment in Gajapati and Chikiti Assembly segment in Ganjam district and urged people to vote for partys Berhampur LS candidate Bhrugu Baxipatra, Mohana assembly candidate Antarjyami Gamango and Chikiti candidate Srirup Deb. There should be 95 per cent voting, so that our party candidates win with a huge margin, he added. Coming down heavily on the Opposition political parties, the 5T chairman said that they talk big things but are never seen during work. But they give an allowance of only Rs 300 to poor people whereas the Naveen Patnaik goverment provides a minimum allowance of Rs 1000 to poor. The BJD leader urged people to keep away from such leaders. At Chikiti, Pandian said that he respects senior minister Usha Devi. I am like a son to her and know her since last 15-16 years, he added. The 5T chairman cautioned people against Opposition leaders who spread rumour and falsehood. He called upon BJD leaders and workers to work unitedly to take Odisha forward. Referring to the renovation work of heritage places started by the chief minister, Pandian said he loves people of all religion, caste and creed. The chief minister has worked to renovate temples and places of worship of other religions, he added. Pandian said the chief minister has sanctioned development works of Rs 180 crore for Mohana and Rs 45 crore for Chikiti. The CM also launched several programmes including BSKY under which thousands have benefitted, he added.
In a major setback to BJD, sitting MLA, two former ones resign
BHUBANESWAR: In a jolt to the BJD ahead of elections, sitting MLA from Anandapur Bhagirathi Sethy and two former legislators resigned from the party expressing their reservation over candidate selection. Bhagirathi sent his resignation from the primary membership of the party to president and chief minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday. Though he has not stated the reasons behind his resignation, sources maintained that he quit from the BJD after he was denied renomination from the Anandapur seat. BJD had replaced Bhagirathi by Abhimanyu Sethi for the seat for the ensuing election. Bhagirathi was elected from the Anandapur constituency on BJD tickets in 2009 and 2019 elections. In a setback for the BJD, former MLA from Kakatpur Surendra Sethi resigned from the party on Tuesday after he was denied of nomination from the seat. The BJD has renominated Tusharkanti Behera for the seat in the ensuing elections. Sethi had won from Kakatpur on BJD ticket in 2014 elections. But the ruling party dropped him in 2019 and allotted the ticket to Behera in 2019. Earlier in the day, former MLA from Karanjia Bijay Kumar Naik also resigned from the party saying he was neglected for a long time. Naik was elected from Karanjia in Mayurbhanj district in 2009 and 2014 elections. Naik, who was aspiring for a ticket from the Karanjia segment alleged that he was neglected in the ruling BJD though he worked hard to strengthen the party organisation in Mayurbhanj district.
East Coast Railway GM inspects twin city railway station works in Odisha
BHUBANESWAR: East Coast Railway (ECoR) general manager (in-charge) Mohes Kumar Behera on Tuesday inspected the redevelopment work of both Cuttack and Bhubaneswar railway stations. Behera inspected both side entry points and circulating areas of the two stations and advised railway officials to take necessary precautions to ensure safety while on work. Reviewing the pending works, he emphasised on timely completion of infrastructure projects and passenger amenities indicating a commitment to meeting scheduled targets. Once completed, both the stations will be the centres of attraction with world-class passenger facilities and enhance the travel experience. The entry points will have facilities like parking for two, three and four wheelers, pickup and drop point, parking for ambulance and VIP vehicles besides wider approach roads, air concourse for passengers waiting and foot over bridge. There will also be an integrated passenger announcement system and fire alarm protection system, food stalls, provisions for specially-abled passengers, baggage scanners, retiring rooms, passenger flow management system and integrated CCTV surveillance. Senior officials of ECoR headquarters led by chief administrative officer (construction) AG Srinivas were present during the inspections.
Curtains come down on 5th edition of SOA Proxima
BHUBANESWAR: The two day SOA Proxima-2024, a HR Conference organised by Siksha O Anusandhan Deemed to be University (SOA) which concluded on Saturday, marked a significant milestone for Odisha by connecting top Indian and multinational companies and industry with tech talents of the state. Over 100 industry and HR leaders and experts drawn from various sectors including IT, IT-enabled services, manufacturing and core industries interacted with over 4,500 students in the two days. Sandipan Chakravorty, former managing director of Tata International and Satish Kumar Pradhan, centre head of Cognizant graced the first day of the conference as the chief guest and the guest of honour. On the second day, Prof TG Sitharam, chairman of All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) graced the occasion as the chief guest. On the valedictory session, Bijay Sahoo, president HR of Reliance Industries, Mumbai, addressed HR professionals and students. The largest HR conference to be held in the eastern region served as a vital connect between industry pioneers and emerging tech talent, providing an unparalleled platform for knowledge exchange enabling a peep into the emerging trends within the technology sphere. Leading multinational companies including HCL Tech, Cognizant, Synopsys, PwC India, Mastercard, Deloitte India, EY India, JP Morgan, Maruti Suzuki, Continental Automotive, British Petroleum, Lenovo, Mahindra Comviva, Emami Paper Mills and Grasim participated in the event among others. Prof Pradipta Kumar Nanda, the vice-chancellor of SOA, said the deemed to be university was initiating steps to connect the institutes with industry as emphasised in the New Education Policy (NEP).
For Pandian, by Pandian, against Pandian is the story of 2024 Odisha polls
BHUBANESWAR: Ever since he exited the Indian Administrative Service and officially took the plunge last year, the big question hanging over VK Pandians political ascendancy was not when; it was rather how soon. The soon has become the moment. The 2024 Odisha elections have become all about Pandian. He has virtually become the face of the BJD after Chief Minister Naven Patnaik and the biggest campaigner of the regional party while the Opposition BJP and Congress have made him their prime target. Pandian is the singular poll issue this summer in Odisha. The BJDs development juggernaut and BJPs vikash narrative have slowly receded into the background. Pandian is not complaining though. In fact, he is basking in the attention as he hops on to the chopper from one packed public meeting to another. The 49-year-old is not only fronting the party but has also taken it upon himself to cover maximum number of Lok Sabha and Assembly constituencies for the BJD. Pandian has already established a complete command over the BJD with every political action and decision of the party bearing his nod and the ministers, MPs and MLAs accepting him as the leader after Naveen but now he is positioning himself before the people as the CMs political heir. And here lies the catch. The Tamil Nadu-born bureaucrat-turned-politician holding the centrestage of a regional party and addressing people in faltering Odia has drawn in the outsider factor and the BJP and Congress have sensed an opportunity to take the game on to the BJD. From the much-repeated double-engine government slogan, the BJP has already changed track to make Odia Asmita (Odia identity) as its main poll issue. The obvious target is Pandian. The BJP has zeroed in on the right hand man of Naveen as a weak link, who carries the baggage of being an outsider. It has begun to aggressively drive the message that Pandian will become the chief minister after Naveen. Not only in Odisha but the top national leadership of the saffron party are no longer hesitating from raking up the issue. Party national president JP Nadda in his public meeting at Berhampur very recently warned that an outsider is being imposed and groomed to take over the mantle of the chief minister of the state. The same day, Rahul Gandhi too took potshots at Pandian. Union Home Minister Amit Shah earlier last week pointed out that Naveens decision to contest from the second seat in Balangirs Kantabanji was a clever strategy to elect his political heir. And now that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also raised the issue of Odia identity and language as a major poll plank of BJP, the archlight is firmly settled on Pandian. The BJD leader is also not backing away. He is also in no mood for oblique references and has gone about questioning BJPs double-engine and the saffron partys contribution to development of the state, Odia identity and language. He also does not hide his sense of growing popularity among the voters during the meetings. BJP leaders should come to some of my meetings to see for themselves peoples affection for me, he told a TV channel. But the perspectives come from the past. The BJP and BJD were good friends till a few weeks back and even an alliance was being stitched up before it collapsed. In their last meeting in March, both Modi and Naveen were effusive in their praise for each other at Jajpur. After the elections, only the numbers would decide if the two parties remain opponents or turn back the clock to become the usual frenemies. The BJPs Odia Asmita stand would then come back to test it while the BJD will have to prove its regional identity is intact. For Pandian, the singular face of the 2024 election in Odisha, the stakes are higher because the future of BJD will be in his hands. His moment of reckoning is here.
