75 International Visitors Arrive To Watch Worlds Largest Elections Unfold
New Delhi: As a beacon of electoral integrity and transparency, the Election Commission of India exemplifies its commitment to conduct general elections of the highest standards, offering a golden bridge for global Election Management Bodies (EMBs) to witness democratic excellence first-hand. The Election Commission of India continues fostering international cooperation by organising the Election Visitors [] The post 75 International Visitors Arrive To Watch Worlds Largest Elections Unfold appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Is Baar Hargiz Jhukega Nahi Saala says Pushpa Raj AKA Allu Arjun
The globally-awaited Pushpa 2: The Rule starring Allu Arjun, and Rashmika Mandanna is the highly anticipated film coming this year. If one has to define Pushpa 2: The Rule in a single word, then Tsunami fits the right term because the response to the teaser, poster, and songs promises a gigantic opening at the ticket [] The post Is Baar Hargiz Jhukega Nahi Saala says Pushpa Raj AKA Allu Arjun appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Rahul Gandhi writes letter to Karnataka CM over Prajwal Revanna case
New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has written a letter to Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah over JD(S) leader Prajwal Revannas sex scandal, requesting him to extend all possible support to the victims and take strict action against those who committed such a heinous crime. I request you to kindly extend all possible support to [] The post Rahul Gandhi writes letter to Karnataka CM over Prajwal Revanna case appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Pushpa 2: The Rule becomes the fastest song to reach 50M+ views across 6 languages!
The fever of Pushpa 2: The Rule has always been at its peak ever since its announcement and the makers have also kept the excitement intact with interesting announcements from the film. With time, the film has become a worldwide phenomenon that has been eagerly looked up to by the masses. While the teaser of [] The post Pushpa 2: The Rule becomes the fastest song to reach 50M+ views across 6 languages! appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Elvish Yadav to face money laundering probe
New Delhi: A money laundering case has been filed against popular YouTuber Siddharth Yadav alias Elvish Yadav, who is accused of using snake venom as a recreational drug in his parties. The Enforcement Directorate has filed the case against some other individuals as well. The Enforcement Directorate has filed the case under the Prevention [] The post Elvish Yadav to face money laundering probe appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Oppositions are lying, says CM Naveen Patnaik while addressing public in Koraput
Bhubaneswar: BJD supremo and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik kicked off political campaign for the party in Koraput on Saturday. He attended a public meeting at the OMP Ground in Koraput where thousands of people welcomed him. Naveen thanked the people for coming and attending the meeting in huge numbers despite the scorching heat. [] The post Oppositions are lying, says CM Naveen Patnaik while addressing public in Koraput appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Debasis Nayak Joins Congress In Odisha After Being Denied Ticket By BJP
Bhubaneswar: Former Bari MLA and Odisha BJP leader Debasis Nayak joined the Congress party after being denied ticket from BJP. The senior political leader joined the Indian National Congress in the presence of Odisha Congress in-charge Ajoy Kumar and other leaders including former OPCC president Niranjan Patnaik at a programme in Bhubaneswar. Nayak won from [] The post Debasis Nayak Joins Congress In Odisha After Being Denied Ticket By BJP appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Rs 90K Seized At Odisha-Chhattisgarh Border, One Detained
Kusumjore: Police seized Rs 90,000 from a person in Kusumjore village under Sinapali panchayat at the Odisha-Chhattisgarh border. The person has been identified as Anand Yadav of Chhattisgarh. Based on intelligence, the Sinapali police intercepted a bike bearing registration number CG 23 H 5518 in which the money was being transferred from Chhattisgarh to Odisha. [] The post Rs 90K Seized At Odisha-Chhattisgarh Border, One Detained appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Santrupt Misra, the BJD candidate from Cuttack, is the wealthiest candidate in the ongoing Odisha Lok Sabha elections, declaring assets worth Rs 461 crore. This includes movable assets of Rs 408 crore and immovable assets of Rs 53 crore. His income tax returns indicate earnings of Rs 76.23 crore in 2021-22 and Rs 66.21 crore in 2022-23. Dilip Ray, BJP nominee for Rourkela assembly seat, owns assets valued at around Rs 300 crore. Sanatan Mahakud, BJD candidate from Champua assembly seat, declared assets worth nearly Rs 152 crore.
Second lookout circular issued against Prajwal Revanna
Bengaluru: Karnataka home minister Gangadharaiah Parameshwara said on Saturday that the states law enforcement authorities have served a second lookout notice against JD(S) leader Prajwal Revanna and his father HD Revanna. The home minister said the notice was issued yesterday and the duo will have to reply to it by evening. Prajwal Revanna, who [] The post Second lookout circular issued against Prajwal Revanna appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Congress Lok Sabha Candidate From Puri Sucharita Mohanty Returns Ticket
Bhubaneswar: In a shock to Congress, Lok Sabha candidate Sucharita Mohanty from Puri returned her party ticket after being denied fund for campaigning. Her campaign in the parliamentary constituency has been hit hard due to non-allotment of funds and this promoted her to take this decision, sources said. In a letter to AICC general [] The post Congress Lok Sabha Candidate From Puri Sucharita Mohanty Returns Ticket appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
BHUBANESWAR: In a major setback to Congress ahead of polls, party's Puri Lok Sabha candidate Sucharita Mohanty has announced her withdrawal from the electoral race, returning her ticket for the parliamentary constituency, Mohanty attributed her decision to a lack of funds and what she perceives as nomination of weaker candidates in some seats across the seven Assembly segments. I have returned the ticket because the party was not able to fund me. Another reason is that in some of the seats in 7 Assembly segments, winnable candidates have not been given the ticket. Instead, some weak candidates got the ticket. I couldn't contest, she said. In a letter addressed to AICC general secretary (Organisation) KC Venugopal, Mohanty expressed her greivance over the denial of funding from the party, stating that it severely hampered the Congress's campaign efforts in Puri. Despite launching a crowdfunding campaign and attempting to minimize campaign expenses, Mohanty failed to secure sufficient funds, leading her to seek support from the party's central leadership, which she claims was not forthcoming. #WATCH | Congress candidate from Puri parliamentary constituency Sucharita Mohanty says, I have returned the ticket because the party was not able to fund me. Another reason is that in some of the seats in 7 Assembly segments, winnable candidates have not been given the ticket. pic.twitter.com/xNpQslvDQy ANI (@ANI) May 4, 2024 I also tried to cut down the projected campaign spending to the minimum. Since I couldn't raise funds on my own, I knocked at your's and all other doors of our Party's Central Leadership, urging them to commit the necessary Party funds for an impactful campaign in Puri Parliament Seat. The AICC Odisha in-charge Dr Ajoy Kumar Ji, however, categorically asked me to fend for myself, she wrote and added that without Party funding, it won't be possible for her to carry out the campaign in Puri. It is clear that only fund crunch is holding us back from a winning campaign in Puri. I, therefore, return the INC ticket for the Puri Parliamentary Constituency herewith, Mohanty stated. Worth noting is that voting for the Puri Lok Sabha seat and its seven assembly segments is scheduled for May 25, with the nomination deadline set for May 6. BJD candidate Arup Patnaik and BJP nominee Sambit Patra have already submitted their nomination papers.
External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar Reaches Bhubaneswar For His 2-Day Visit To Odisha
Bhubaneswar: External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar reaches Bhubaneswar for his 2-day visit to Odisha. Jaishankar will address a press conference in the evening. He will attend a party workers meeting in Cuttack the next day. He is scheduled to attend various programmes in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and Sambalpur. Jaishankar met intellectuals and editors of [] The post External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar Reaches Bhubaneswar For His 2-Day Visit To Odisha appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Denied party funds, Congress denies ticket to Puri LS candidate Sucharita Mohanty
Denied party funds, Congress denies ticket to Puri LS candidate Sucharita Mohanty Congress candidate for the Puri Lok Sabha constituency Sucharita Mohanty has declined to contest the elections and returned the party ticket alleging lack of funding from the party. Mohanty, daughter of former Congress MP Brajamohan Mohanty in a mail to AICC general secretary (organization) K C Venugopal on Friday claimed that her campaign in the Puri Lok Sabha constituency has been hit hard because the party has denied funding. She alleged that AICC Odisha in-charge Ajoy Kumar ''categorically'' asked her to fight from her own resources. ''I was a salaried professional journalist who entered electoral politics 10 years ago. I have given all I have into my campaign in Puri. I tried a public donation drive to support my campaign for progressive politics without much success so far. I also tried to cut down the projected campaign spending to the minimum,'' she mentioned. As she was not able to raise funds on her own, the Congress leader had approached all senior leaders including the party's central leadership for funds for an impactful campaign in the Puri Lok Sabha constituency. ''It is clear that only fund crunch is holding us back from a winning campaign in Puri. I regret that without party funding, it won't be possible to carry out the campaign in Puri. I, therefore, return the party ticket for the Puri Lok Sabha constituency herewith,'' she said in her mail to the AICC. However, Mohanty said she will remain a loyal Congress worker and her leader is Rahul Gandhi. Sucharita has been fielded for the Puri LS seat against BJP national spokesperson Sambit Patra and BJD candidate Arup Patnaik, a former Mumbai Police Commissioner.
Anticipated above-normal Southwest monsoon brings hope for India's agricultural sector: Geojit report Multiple meteorological organizations are anticipating abundant rainfall during this year's southwest monsoon season in the Indian subcontinent. According to Geojit insights, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) expects above-normal rainfall, with the total from June to September anticipated to be 106 per cent of the long-period average. Private forecaster Skymet Weather Services and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Climate Centre have echoed similar forecasts. Last year, the southwest monsoon ended with a 6 per cent deficit of the long-period average, mainly due to El Nino, resulting in wide spatial and temporal variations in rainfall distribution. However, regions that generally receive good rainfall experienced shortages, while dry regions like West Rajasthan and Saurashtra-Kutch received bountiful rainfall. Out of the total 36 meteorological subdivisions, 7 subdivisions, including Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura, experienced deficient rainfall. The forecast of normal monsoon rains this year comes as a relief at a time when agricultural output is declining, and food inflation remains high, exacerbated by dwindling water levels in reservoirs. Slow growth in agriculture is mainly attributed to declining farm output, with food grain production expected to decline by six percent in 2023-24. The deficient monsoons last year and warmer, drier weather due to El Nino have left considerable impact on water levels in reservoirs across the country. Currently, reservoir storage stands at 31 per cent of the total live storage capacity, significantly lower than the 10-year average. With the summer approaching its peak, the situation in southern India, where reservoir levels are critically low, has worsened, increasing the threat of drought. Apart from affecting standing crops and agricultural productivity, dwindling water levels could impact other sectors as well. The prediction of normal monsoons this year brings hope for boosting the production of kharif crops such as rice, soybean, sugarcane, and pulses, cooling down food inflationary pressures, and replenishing water resources. However, the arrival, distribution, intensity, and departure of the monsoon remain crucial factors that will impact agricultural production and productivity. Skymet expects good rainfall in southern, western, and northwestern parts of the country, with Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh expected to receive adequate rainfall. However, eastern states like Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal may face the risk of deficit rainfall during peak monsoon months, impacting kharif crops heavily dependent on early rainfall. Additionally, heavy showers during the latter half of the monsoon season may pose a threat to standing crops across the country. (ANI)
Delhi Police Reacts On Viral Video Of Vada Pav Girl
New Delhi: The Delhi police on Friday responded to viral videos showing a vada pav seller being detained by police officials in Outer Delhi, saying that the seller was not arrested and no case has been registered against her. Chandrika Dixit, popularly known as Vada Pav Girl, has been running a food stall in [] The post Delhi Police Reacts On Viral Video Of Vada Pav Girl appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Woman Found Hanging Inside House In Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar: A woman was found hanging inside her rented house in a basti under Bharatpur police station in Bhubaneswar on Saturday. Her family members alleged that she might have been murdered. The post Woman Found Hanging Inside House In Bhubaneswar appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Case filed against Amit Shah for poll code violation in Hyderabad
Hyderabad: The Hyderabad police filed the case on a complaint by Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) vice- president Niranjan Reddy, in which the latter claimed that in the BJP rally from Laldawaza to Sudha Talkies on May 1 in which several BJP leaders, including Shah participated, a few children were seen on the dais [] The post Case filed against Amit Shah for poll code violation in Hyderabad appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Police Seizes Over 1800 Illegal Cough Syrup Bottles In Bolangir, Four Held
Bolangir: Police seized 1850 bottles of illegal cough syrup from Sudapada bypass road in Bolangir district and arrested four persons in this connection. The accused persons have been identified as Mohammed Ibran of Chandrasekharnagar, Pancha Meher of Laxminagarpada, Sudarshan Naik of Chudapali, and Daitari Shay of Belbahali village. Acting on a tip-off, a team of [] The post Police Seizes Over 1800 Illegal Cough Syrup Bottles In Bolangir, Four Held appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Hardeep Nijjar killing: Canada police release pictures of 3 Indian suspects
Toronto: The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) on Saturday released photographs of all three persons arrested for their alleged connection with the killing of India-designated terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Hardeep Singh Nijjar was shot dead in Canadas Surrey last year. Canada accuses the Indian government of involvement in the killing a charge [] The post Hardeep Nijjar killing: Canada police release pictures of 3 Indian suspects appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Darshanam Mogulaiah, an artist awarded Padma Shri in 2022 now turns labourer
Hyderabad: Darshanam Mogulaiah, the Padma Shri recipient renowned for revitalising the rare musical instrument Kinnera, was seen labouring at a construction site near Hyderabad to make ends meet. According to a report by Time of India, the 73-year-old artist, Kinnera Mogulaiah, spent the 1 crore in cash he received from the Telangana government on [] The post Darshanam Mogulaiah, an artist awarded Padma Shri in 2022 now turns labourer appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Several parts of the country are facing intense heat with the mercury soaring to 43 to 46 degrees Celsius
Four Critical In Honey Bee Attack In Balasore, Hospitalised
Balasore: At least four persons sustained critical injuries after they were attacked by a swarm of honey bees in Demuria village under Jaleswar block in Balasore district on Saturday. As per reports, some people had gone to the village crematorium for cremation rituals. There, a swarm of honey bees attacked them. As a result, four [] The post Four Critical In Honey Bee Attack In Balasore, Hospitalised appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
EAM S Jaishankar Arrives In Bhubaneswar For 2-Day Odisha Visit
Bhubaneswar: The External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar arrived at Bhubaneswar airport for 2 day Odisha visit. Jaishankar will address a press conference in the evening. He will attend a party workers meeting in Cuttack the next day. He is scheduled to attend various programmes in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and Sambalpur. The post EAM S Jaishankar Arrives In Bhubaneswar For 2-Day Odisha Visit appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
PM Modi to address election rallies in Odisha on May 6
Narendra Modi is slated to address two political rallies in Berhampur and Nabarangpur Lok Sabha constituencies on Monday, says a party leader
Canadian police arrest 3 Indian nationals over killing of Khalistan separatist Nijjar
Ottawa: Canadian police have arrested three Indian nationals believed by investigators to be members of an alleged hit squad tasked by the government of India with the killing of Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey last year, police said. The ties between India and Canada came under severe strain following Canadian Prime Minister Justin []
Bus Dashes Into Divider In Balasore, Narrow Escape For Passengers
Balasore: A passenger bus carrying about 50 people crashed into a divider on NH-16 near Indira chhak under Basta police station in Balasore district on Saturday. As per reports, the mishap occurred while the bus was on its way to Kolkata from Balasore. The bus driver lost control of the wheels of the vehicle and [] The post Bus Dashes Into Divider In Balasore, Narrow Escape For Passengers appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
PM Modi to Hold Massive Election Rallies in Odisha on May 6
PM Modi to Hold Massive Election Rallies in Odisha on May 6 Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president J P Nadda are scheduled to visit Odisha over the next few days to campaign for the simultaneous Lok Sabha and assembly elections. Modi is slated to address two political rallies in Berhampur and Nabarangpur Lok Sabha constituencies on Monday, a party leader said. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is also scheduled to embark on a two-day visit to the state from Saturday, during which he will meet intellectuals and journalists. Nadda, who had addressed a rally in Berhampur on April 28, will again visit Odisha on Sunday to chalk out election strategies, BJP state unit vice-president Golak Mohapatra told reporters here. ''The BJP chief will attend party programmes in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack. The EAM will be on a two-day visit to Odisha during which he will attend several events in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and Sambalpur,'' Mohapatra said. Union Home Minister Amit Shah had launched the BJP's election campaign in Odisha on April 25 from Sonepur. Simultaneous Lok Sabha and assembly elections will be held in Odisha in four phases from May 13.
At least 14 died after flood, landslide hit Indonesias Sulawesi island
Jakarta: A flood and a landslide hit Indonesias Sulawesi island, killing 14 people, officials said Saturday. Torrential rain pounding the area since Thursday triggered a landslide in Luwu district in South Sulawesi province, said local rescue chief Mexianus Bekabel. Floods up to 3 meters (10 feet) have affected 13 sub-districts as water and mud covered []
Doctor beaten up after patient death
Jaleswar: Tension prevailed Friday on the premises of GK Bhattar Hospital in Balasore district following the demise of a patient. Family members blamed the hospital for medical negligence which led to the death of the youth. They allegedly manhandled a doctor who was on duty and closed the main gate of the hospital for some []
Mercury to drop by 3-4C in next 48 hrs
Bhubaneswar: In a welcome respite from the blistering heatwave conditions prevailing in the state, the weather bureau predicted a significant drop of up to 3-4 degrees Celsius in the next 48 hours. Weather scientists at the regional centre of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) here told Orissa POST Friday that the sea wind from the []
Kerala: 816g MDMA seized in 48 hours; surge in drug haul anticipated after LS poll
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The enforcement agencies have seized a large quantity of synthetic drugs from two locations in the state within a span of 48 hours, indicating that the drug menace is going to intensify further in the state after the Lok Sabha polls. About 616g of MDMA was seized by the excise from Kozhikode rural on Thursday, while 200g were seized from Angamaly by the police on Friday. The seized contraband could fetch more than Rs 25 lakh in the open market, said an excise source. As per the excise sources, the smuggling of narcotics to the state had reduced since March third week due to the heavy deployment of police, excise and other paramilitary forces in the inter-state borders owing to the Lok Sabha polls. Since the poll date was announced on March 16, the state and central agencies had intensified the scrutiny of vehicles on the inter-state borders of Kerala. Apart from the police and excise, officers from the Income Tax department, SGST division, Directorate of Enforcement, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), and the Narcotics Control Bureau were involved in inspections at the state border and within the state. A senior excise officer told TNIE that seizure of commercial quantity of MDMA rarely happened in the run up to the Lok Sabha polls. MDMA weighing more than 10g is considered as a commercial quantity, as per the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NDPS). Because of the strict surveillance on border points and multi-layered screening of vehicles done within the state and outside, it was almost impossible to smuggle in contraband during the Lok Sabha poll campaign period. Now, that the polls are over in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, we are expecting a surge in smuggling attempts. More seizures are also expected in the coming days, he said. The synthetic drugs reach Kerala from Chennai, Bengaluru, Delhi and Goa, while cannabis is sourced from plantations located in the hinterlands in Andhra-Odisha border. Since the Lok Sabha poll date was announced, heavy deployment of law enforcement officers made movement of the narcotics a risky affair. Now that the vigilance has been scaled down, the rackets having inter-state connections would be eying to push in the drugs, the excise officer added.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan conspired to stall Parikrama project: BJD
BHUBANESWAR: The BJD came down on Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan for raking up Odia Asmita just before elections accusing him of trying his best to stall the Srimandir Parikrama project. Countering Pradhans attack on BJD shortly after his media conference, senior BJD leader and candidate for Satyabadi Assembly constituency Sanjay Das Burma said the union minister has no right to talk about Odia identity and pride as he did not accept the invitation to attend the inauguration of the Srimandir heritage corridor project. It is due to the untiring efforts of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik that Odia received classical language status which is a matter of pride for all Odias. The Centre has contributed significantly to the development and growth of Sanskrit, Malayalam, Kannada, Tamil and Telugu. Will Pradhan tell how much did the Central government sanction for Odia language, he asked. Pradhan has been a central minister holding important portfolios including education. Let him tell the people of the state about his contribution to education and development of Odia language in the state, Sanjay said. Describing former chief minister and veteran leader Biju Patnaik as the symbol of Odia Asmita, Sanjay said the formers contribution to the state and the country is unparalleled. There has been a demand for granting Bharat Ratna to Biju Babu for a long time. The BJP government at Centre never thought it fit to give him the highest civilian award of the country when leaders of other states were considered. The people of the state know well who stands on the way of selecting Biju Patnaik for the highest award. The BJD leader said BJP is trying to divert the attention of people from core issues like inflation, rising prices of essential commodities, ballooning unemployment and Centres negligence to Odisha by raising non-issues.
EAM Jaishankar to visit Odisha on May 4
BHUBANESWAR: With only 10 days left for Odishas first phase election to Lok Sabha and Assembly, the BJP has lined up its star campaigners to undertake an aggressive campaign in the state. External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar is coming on a two-day visit to the state beginning Saturday. He is scheduled to meet editors of various media houses and later intellectuals on May 4 in Bhubaneswar. The next day he will interact with party workers in Cuttack, said state BJP vice-president Golak Mohapatra. This will be the first visit of Jaishankar to Odisha. National president of BJP JP Nadda is also coming on May 5. He is scheduled to meet party leaders in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack. This will be the second visit of Nadda within a week.
After five years, elephant census to be held in Odisha from May 22
BHUBANESWAR: Odisha government will conduct the elephant census in the state from May 22 to 24 after a gap of seven years. Official sources in the Forest and Environment department said the All Odisha Elephant Estimation 2024 will be taken up across 43 divisions using direct count method and process for the same has been set in motion. The last jumbo census in the state had been undertaken way back in 2017, in which Odisha had recorded a total head count of 1,976, a marginal rise from the previous census figure of 1,954 in 2015. The department could not take up the exercise thereafter for multiple reasons, including cyclone Fani in May, 2019 and subsequent outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic. However, rampant poaching, including in protected areas of Similipal Tiger Reserve, however, triggered apprehensions on the protection measures for the elephants necessitating the head count exercise for preparation of a better conservation plan. The state has lost close to 700 elephants in the last eight years. The state forest minister had informed the Assembly last year that a total of 698 jumbos perished between 2015 and 2023. Poaching, poisoning, electrocution, road accidents and train collisions have remained the major cause of elephant deaths in the state for years. For the census, a total of 1,136 machans will be constructed and used in addition to barracks, watch towers and other such establishments of the department for use by the census teams. While requisite training at all levels will be completed by May 15, census units with kits will take positions on the field by May 21 and continue the counting exercise for the next three days till May 24. The collected data will then be analysed at range, division and circle level and finally at the headquarters for arriving at the final figure, forest officials said.
Leopard count exercise kicks off in 51 forest divisions in Odisha
BHUBANESWAR: As announced earlier, the state government has launched its own leopard enumeration to ascertain the exact population of the big cats in Odisha. The All Odisha Leopard Estimation is being carried out in 51 forest divisions across the state using trap camera technique as an indirect sighting method. As many as 3,312 trap cameras are being put to use for the purpose. The trap camera images of leopards obtained during the All Odisha Tiger Estimation Exercise, conducted between September 15 and January 31 will be used as reference for this exercise. Intensive monitoring for leopards will be carried out in tiger reserves where a pair of trap camera will be used in every 2km X 2km grid, while in other areas including wildlife sanctuaries five pairs of trap cameras will be installed in every 25 square km, an official from the department said. The Similipal Tiger Reserve sources said while camera traps have already been distributed for the enumeration, more will be used in places that could not be covered during the states tiger estimation exercise. The state government decided to conduct its own leopard census in March after the Status of Leopard in India 2022 report pointed out that leopard population in Odisha has recorded a significant decline. As per the report, the total number of leopards in the state in 2022 stood at 568 - around 192 less than the previous count of 760 in 2018. The fifth cycle of leopard population estimation, carried out by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and Wildlife Institute of India (WII), in collaboration with state Forest departments, underlined that the major efforts of leopard population recovery in the state is restricted to tiger reserves.
Severe heatwave may spare first phase voting in Odisha, says IMD
BHUBANESWAR: Voters in the state may be spared the heat torture as the blistering conditions are expected to abate during the next couple of weeks. Odisha will vote in the last four legs of the general elections and it starts on May 13. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) which issued the extended range outlook for two weeks - May 3-9 and May 10-16 said isolated thunderstorm activity is expected in the state between May 10 and 16. This will likely push maximum day temperature below normal to near normal at many places during the period. Elections to four Lok Sabha seats - Nabarangpur, Berhampur, Koraput and Kalahandi and 28 Assembly constituencies will be held on May 13. Odisha is likely to get respite from heatwave from May 9 to 16 under the influence of rainfall and thundershower activity, said Bhubaneswar Meteorological Centre scientist, Umasankar Das. Meanwhile, day temperature started dipping slightly and heatwave condition is expected to subside from next week onwards. The mercury is likely to dip gradually by 3 degree Celsius to 4 degree C at many places May 6 onwards due to rainfall and thundershower activity, said the Met office. Weather experts said moisture incursion from Bay of Bengal has strengthened and may trigger thundershowers next week. The thundershower activity will remain strong till May 11 but will take time for the mercury level to rise again. However, scorching heat will continue in parts of the state for two more days. Maximum day temperature is likely to remain above normal by 3 degree C to 4 degree C and heatwave expected to prevail in some places till Sunday. On the day, 26 places recorded 40 degree C or more and Boudh was the hottest at 44.6 degree C. After some respite for 24 hours, mercury level again witnessed a rise in Bhubaneswar as the city recorded 41.6 degree C. The day temperature in the capital was above normal by 3.9 degree C. Neighbouring Cuttack recorded 40.5 degree C and it was warmer by 3.2 degree C. The day temperature in the capital city is likely to remain around 40 degree C on Saturday.
Scientific probe led to conviction in two murders in Odisha
BHUBANESWAR: At a time when forensic science is making rapid advancements, the city police utilised it wisely by leveraging scientific investigation methods to ensure two separate cases of murders ended in conviction. Owing to effective use of scientific evidence during the trial of one murder case each of Jatni and Chandrasekharpur police stations, life imprisonment was awarded to two persons, said a police officer. Jatni police had registered a case in June, 2021 and arrested one Sukanta Mallik for killing his wife inside their house. It was a tough challenge for the police as there were no eyewitnesses to the crime. Bhubaneswar DFSLs scientific officer Sushree Sabinaya along with her team visited the crime scene and detected blood on Malliks nails. The blood sample of Malliks wife were sent to State Forensic Science Laboratory (SFSL) here for DNA profiling. DFSL officials had also found fingerprints on the knife used in the murder. The fingerprints on the blood-stained knife matched with the fingerprints of Mallik during examination by the Finger Print Bureau. DNA test and fingerprint reports matched and the court considered them as conclusive evidences. Similarly, the sensational double murder case registered by Chandrasekharpur police in April, 2022 ended in conviction due to scientific investigation methods. Bijaya Kumar Sethi had murdered his wife and her sister using a sharp weapon. The forensic team had collected crucial evidences such as blood samples of the two women by using saline extract method as their bodies were in advanced stages of decomposition. Investigators faced a few other challenges during collection of evidences as Sethis hands were clean when he was arrested. However, investigators used chemicals like benzidine and traces of blood were successfully extracted from the nails and hands of Sethi. The blood extracted from his finger nails and blood samples of the two women were sent to SFSL for DNA profiling and they matched. The capacity of Bhubaneswar DFSL will be upgraded in terms of human resources and modern equipment to provide quality forensic service for probe of vital cases, said ACP Sarat Kumar Sahu.
Horoscope May 4: These zodiac signs may come across unexpected monetary gains
Aries: Something unexpected may happen. Though you may not comprehend all that takes place, Ganesha says it is fine. Stay away from stressful activities, as you may need to go out in the evening. Put on the glitter and gloss, as some good music and dance are expected to come your way. Taurus: Today, you []
Tipsy doctors road rage leaves two injured in Bhubaneswar
BHUBANESWAR: Doctor of a premier private hospital, allegedly driving under influence of alcohol, caused a series of mishaps along Sainik School Road here on Friday. Police said at least two persons sustained injuries in the accidents. The doctor was reportedly on his way to the hospital when alcohol took the better of him. Initial investigation revealed he took a turn towards Sainik School Road and hit two persons on an electric scooter. Two vehicles coming from behind then hit the doctors car. Police sources said some liquor bottles and cigarette packets were found in his car. The locals caught hold of the doctor and handed him over to the police. Preliminary investigation suggests the doctor was driving the car in an inebriated state. The vehicle has been seized and a case registered. He has been detained and further action will be initiated accordingly, said an officer of Saheed Nagar police station. Sources said the doctors car was damaged in the accident and police will thoroughly search his vehicle. The two persons who sustained injuries are undergoing treatment at a private hospital here. Police said, the doctor was employed with Apollo Hospitals. Despite continuous checking against drunk driving, such offences are frequently taking place in the capital city. A police officer asserted that the enforcement against various traffic violations has reduced the number of road accidents in Bhubaneswar. Around 5,696 people lost their lives in Odisha due to road accidents in 2023. Khurda is among the districts in the state which witnessed a rise in road accident-related fatalities in the last two years. Around 332 and 385 people were killed in road accidents in 2022 and 2023 respectively.
Orissa HC rejects bail pleas of three RTI activists for spreading fake news
CUTTACK: The Orissa High Court has rejected the anticipatory bail pleas of the three Right to Information (RTI) activists accused of spreading fake news related to the deployment of police personnel for the protection of VK Pandian, the chairman of 5T and close aide of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. The three RTI activists - Pradip Pradhan, Prakash Dash and Srikant Pakal had filed anticipatory bail applications after cases were registered against them for allegedly committing forgery by using forged documents to spread fake news at the Saheed Nagar police station in Bhubaneswar on April 2. The number of police personnel deployed around Pandian was unusually as high as 74, the trio had informed at a press conference in Bhubaneswar on March 30. The information was obtained by exercise of RTI Act, it was claimed. But the state police administration had immediately dismissed the claim stating that no such reply was supplied to any RTI applicant. While rejecting the anticipatory bail applications, the single judge bench of Justice Chittaranjan Dash acknowledged the weight of the allegations against the petitioners, which prima facie establishes the accusations of forgery and misrepresentation of information obtained through the RTI Act. In the above premises, grant of anticipatory bail to the petitioners would not serve the interests of justice, as there exists substantial material suggesting their involvement in grave misconduct under the alleged offences, Justice Dash observed. Justice Dash also said that the actions alleged not only violate the sanctity of the RTI Act but also erode public trust and reliance on the work conducted by RTI activists for promoting transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance.
Infighting to dent BJP chances in Sambalpur?
SAMBALPUR: Infighting has broken out in the Sambalpur unit of BJP over selection of candidates, casting a shadow over the saffron partys poll prospects in the district. The major rebellion is in Rairakhol Assembly seat where BJPs candidate Debendra Mohapatra is facing opposition from a fellow party leader. Upset over denial of party ticket, senior BJP leader Govind Agrawal and his followers have withdrawn support from Mohapatra. Agrawal was the frontunner for BJP ticket from Rairakhol. Sources said the senior leader worked hard to strengthen the BJP organisation in Rairakhol for more than a decade. The denial of ticket to Agrawal has reportedly hurt his supporters who have disassociated themselves from Mohapatra. While candidates of the ruling BJD and Congress have intensified electioneering by mobilising maximum number of their supporters, Mohapatras campaign is yet to pick up pace due to lack of adequate backing from party workers. Poll pundits said with Mohapatras candidacy marred by rebellion, both the BJD and Congress are likely to reap benefits by exploiting the situation. Mohapatra is locking horns with BJD veteran Prasanna Acharya and Congress candidate Assaf Ali Khan. The BJD has been winning from Rairakhol since 2000 and its candidate Acharya has already won the seat once in 2009 elections. The BJD has resolved its internal issues by replacing sitting MLA Rohit Pujari with Acharya from Rairakhol. And with an existing strong base of BJD supporters in the constituency, the electoral battle is being expected to be a cakewalk for Acharya. On the other hand, Congess candidate Khan, who fought the last three elections unsuccessfully and despite being embroiled in a number of controversies, has been given another chance by the grand old party. He is confident of giving a tough fight to the ruling BJD. However, Khan has also lost a large number of his supporters who have either joined BJD or BJP. In 2009 elections, Acharya defeated Khan by a margin of 9,764 votes from Rairakhol. While Acharya secured 37,718 votes, the Congress candidate polled 27,954 votes. Similarly in 2014, BJDs Pujari defeated Khan by a margin of 11,909 votes. In the last elections, Pujari secured 57,111 votes and defeated Khan by a margin of 14, 632 votes. The Congress candidate had polled 42,479 votes. In all the three elections, BJP was placed at the third position. A similar infighting has also erupted in Sambalpur Assembly constituency where the BJPs district unit president Girish Patel has been reportedly keeping distance from party candidate Jay Narayan Mishra after losing the ticket to him.
Rourkela Municipal Corporation election to be Dilip Rays poll plank
ROURKELA: Former union minister and BJPs candidate from Rourkela Assembly constituency Dilip Ray has made a strong pitch for holding the election to Rourkela Municipal Corporation (RMC) which is pending for the last nearly 11 years. During his campaign, Dilip has been insisting that if voted to power, he would ensure that the RMC elections are held at the earliest. He is also highlighting the difficulties in execution of infrastructure projects and delivery of civic services in absence of an elected council for the RMC. Dilip said there is no fully functional RMC council with elected and accountable representatives to offer interactive platform for exchange of ideas, feedback and opinions from the public. As the Rourkela MLA between 2014 and 2018, Dilip on many occasions had drawn the attention of the state government towards holding the RMC elections. After upgradation of Rourkela Municipality into RMC on November 14, 2014, a section of tribals opposed the merger of Jagda gram panchayat and part of Jhartarang into the corporation. Subsequently, they challenged the formation of RMC and obtained a stay order from the Orissa High Court in March, 2015. The five-year tenure of the elected council of the erstwhile municipality ended on August 20, 2013. Since then, election to the RMC has not been conducted citing the court litigation. In 2021, a writ petition was filed in the high court by former chairperson of the erstwhile municipality Nihar Ray seeking direction to the state government to hold the RMC election. The petitioner argued that the high courts stay order was on formation of RMC and it implied that the municipality still exists. Hence, the Odisha Municipal Act and Rules, Odisha Municipality Delimitation of Wards, Reservations of Seats and Conduct of Election Rules, 1994 are applicable for administration of the Rourkela Municipality. Former Rourkela MLA of Congress Pravat Mohapatra said residents are deprived of their democratic right of election and facing immense difficulties in availing civic services. Among other things, the sanitary situation of the city has deteriorated while traffic congestion and vehicle parking issues are going from bad to worse. Run by government officers, the RMC has no idea about the suffering of city residents. The officers too are not responsive to the people, Mohapatra alleged.
Rahul misses Rayagada public meeting, sends video message
RAYAGADA: The much-awaited public meeting of Rahul Gandhi at Rayagada which was expected to invigorate the old Congress bastion in undivided Koraput district ended in a whimper with the former party president failing to make it since he had to proceed to file nominations at Raebareli on Friday. Instead, the 50,000-strong gathering watched his video message where the former party president said the Congress always safeguarded the Constitution and ensured justice to scheduled caste, scheduled tribe, farmers and other downtrodden where as the Narendra Modi-led BJP has deprived the poor of their fundamental rights. In the message, Rahul said the Modi-led NDA government is protecting the interest of billionaire industrialists who have looted wealth of the people. He reiterated that the five guarantees for women, unemployment youth, farmers, labourers and tribals. Anticipating a big show, the Congress had made elaborate arrangements for the public meeting. Koraput MP Saptagiri Shankar Ulaka organised the meeting while a number of party candidates from the region, Odisha prabhari Dr Ajoy Kumar, deputy Chief Minister of Telangana Mallu Bhatti Viramarka and PCC chief Sarat Pattanayak were present, expecting the event to change the dynamics in the region.
Over Rs 27 lakh cash seized during vehicle checking in Odisha
NUAPADA/BARBIL: Police detained seven persons and seized over Rs 27 lakh cash from their possession during separate incidents of vehicle inspection in Nuapada and Keonjhar districts on Friday. In the first incident which took place near Saipalla check gate in Nuapada, police intercepted a car on way to Khariar Road from Padampur. During search, the cops seized Rs 4.89 lakh cash from the vehicle and detained two persons, Ranjit Singh Gandhi (52) and Chetan Kumar Saha (34). Similarly in Khariar, three persons carrying illegal cash were detained during vehicle inspection at the check post near Amlapali chowk. Khariar IIC Pradeep Dharua said while Rs 1.31 lakh was seized from the possession of one Priyabrata Bhoi (20), Rs 95,500 was recovered from Akhil Agrawal (30) and Rs 69,000 from Mahesh Gurjar (26). In Keonjhars Barbil, a static surveillance team detained two persons for allegedly carrying cash exceeding the permissible limits of Rs 50,000 as allowed by the Election Commission in view of the upcoming polls. Sources said the duo was en route to Koida town in Sundargarh in a car when the team intercepted the vehicle at Bhadrasahi chowk in Barbil. On searching the car, the surveillance team found Rs 20 lakh cash kept in two bags. During interrogation, the duo said they had withdrawn the amount from a bank in Joda town from the account of a private transporting firm. A police officer said they were released after questioning but will be called to the police station again for further investigation. The seized cash has been kept in the Keonjhar treasury office. The Income Tax department has been informed about the incident for necessary action, he added.
Five held for mobile shop theft in Odisha
BARIPADA: Khunta police in Mayurbhanj district on Friday arrested five persons for their alleged involvement in looting a mobile shop on April 25. The accused were identified as Amarjit Pradhan (22) of Dahisahi under Kaptipada police limits of Mayurbhanj district, Shiba Das (19) and Prithyiraj Patra (21) both from Bidhyadharpur village, Dibyaranjan Behera (23) of Mukhura and Nasim Khan (20) of Haripaur village - all from Remuna police limits in Balasore district. Kaptipada SDPO Sarthak Ray said the gang broke into the mobile shop through the side wall and stole mobile phones along with related accessories in the wee hours of April 25. The shop owner Manoranjan Behera, a native of Chaturshila village found the theft when he opened his shop the next morning. He immediately informed the Khunta police station and lodged an FIR over stealing of mobile and other accessories from his shop. Based on his complaint, police registered a case under sections 457 and 380 of the IPC and arrested the five accused. During the search, police seized various stolen items including two tablets, 21 mobile phones of different brands, 15 feature phones, one CCTV camera, five bluetooth devices and other accessories from their possession. They were produced in the court and remanded in judicial custody after their bail plea was rejected.
Women threaten poll boycott to highlight water crisis in Kendrapara
KENDRAPARA: Irked over the scarcity of drinking water, womenfolk of Kaupada, Barabatia, Naranapur and nearby villages in Derabishi block took to the streets on Friday. The irate women, holding empty pots and buckets, gheraoed the Derabishi block office here demanding immediate supply of potable water. The agitators also threatened to boycott the upcoming polls if the drinking water crisis was not resolved soon. Madhusmita Mallick of Naranapur said two tube-wells in the village have become defunct. Despite repeated complaints, the authorities concerned failed to repair the tube-wells. Groundwater level is depleting due to shortage of water in the river. As a result, most of tube-wells become defunct in the summer. Villagers are forced to walk around one km to collect drinking water from a well. With the government officials unable to provide any relief, villagers have resigned to their fate, rued Mamuni. Another agitator Minati Mallick of Kaupada claimed villagers are forced to drink water from the local pond due to leakage in pipes. We are getting soil-laced dirty water from the pipelines due to leakage and illegal tapping by some miscreants. Gayatri Mallick of Barabatia said villagers have decided to boycott the upcoming election if the authorities failed to provide them regular water supply. The water situation here is really bad and the authorities are not working to solve the problem. The local politicians come to us for votes but do not care to solve our problems. Our demands have never been taken seriously. If we do not boycott the polls, our demand will remain unfulfilled for another five years, said Gayatri. Contacted, assistant engineer of Rural Water Supply and Sanitation (RWSS) of Derabishi Bibhudutta Das said, We are supplying water through pipelines. However, some miscreants have been stealing the water by illegally tapping the pipelines through motors to irrigate their agricultural land. As a result, villagers residing in tail-end areas are not getting adequate water. We will take action against the water thieves soon.
CM chose non-Odia officer to lead BJD, says Dharmendra Pradhan
BHUBANESWAR: Union Minister and BJP candidate for Sambalpur parliamentary constituency Dharmendra Pradhan lashed out at Chief Minister and BJD president Naveen Patnaik for choosing a non-Odia bureaucrat to lead the party. Addressing mediapersons here on Friday in the midst of a gruelling election campaign, Pradhan said BJP decided to make Odia Asmita a major poll plank to caution people of the state that unethical, undemocratic and unconstitutional attempts are being made to promote a bureaucrat-turned-politician from outside Odisha to be the power centre and decide the fate of people. I thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi for setting Odia Asmita as the agenda for the 2024 elections and requesting people of the state to give BJP a chance as the BJD government has kept Odisha underdeveloped despite being abundant in natural resources, he added. Replying to a query on why Odia identity and Odia pride has suddenly come into play before the 2024 elections when such issues were not part of the poll agenda in 2009 and 2014, he said, the chief minister was then in full command of the state government and his party. He had not made an attempt for back door entry of a non-Odia bureaucrat to lead the state, Pradhan said. Without naming VK Pandian, Pradhan said the former bureaucrat has everything under his command to assault the rich cultural and religious heritage of the state. A coterie of non-Odia bureaucrats is running the BJD government. They had made an attempt to stop the Rath Yatra but their wish was not fulfilled due to stiff resistance from people. Centuries-old mutts and mandirs within the precinct of Sri Jagannath Temple, Puri and Lingaraj temple, Bhubaneswar were demolished in the name of heritage corridor projects. Who gave them the permission to tamper with the heritage of the state, asked Pradhan. He alleged a conspiracy has been hatched by the state government to stall the Paika rebellion memorial park project at the foothill of Barunei in Khurda district even after its foundation stone was laid by former President Ram Nath Kovind in 2019. The project was initiated in 2017 and union government had made a provision in its budget for it the same year. The Culture Ministry is ready to accept all conditions of the state government to extend financial assistance. Indian Oil Corporation had given `80 crore for the project which remains unutilised due to non-cooperation of the ruling party, Pradhan said. Asserting BJP will win all the 21 Lok Sabha seats in the state, Pradhan said people love Modi and BJD has nothing to its credit. The state government has failed on all fronts be it drinking water supply, irrigation, unemployment, huge migration of labour force, falling standards of education and health services, etc. He said the prime minister will visit the state for campaign after May 6. He will campaign for the party in all four phases of the elections.
Odisha MLA Nayak to fight as Independent from Bari Assembly seat
JAJPUR: BJP leader and former MLA Debasis Nayak on Friday announced to fight the upcoming Assembly elections as an Independent candidate from Bari Assembly seat. The four-time legislator from Bari announced his decision on social media platforms a day after the BJP denied him ticket from the Assembly seat. On Thursday, BJP nominated Umesh Chandra Jena as its candidate from Bari. Umesh had unsuccessfully contested from the seat on a Congress ticket in 2019 election. However, he later quit the grand old party and joined BJP last year. In a post on social media, Nayak said, People of Bari are my strength. Party is not paramount for me. I will contest the election to serve the people. Once a close aide of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Nayak was successfully elected as a BJD candidate in 2000, 2004, 2009 and 2014. He also served as the minister of Sports and Youth Services.
Opposition does not want states progress: Odisha 5T chairman Pandian
BERHAMPUR: BJD leader and 5T chairman VK Pandian on Friday tore into the Opposition political parties and said they are conspiring to derail the development process of Odisha for their narrow interests. Pandian was addressing an election campaign at Bhanjanagar Assembly segment which though comes under Ganjam district but is part of Kandhamal Lok Sabha constituency. Accompanied by Kandhamal MP Achyuta Samanta and Bhanjanagar MLA Bikram Keshari Arukh, the BJD star campaigner urged the voters to hand huge margins of victory to the BJD candidates in the ensuing polls. While Samanta is seeking re-election from Kandhamal Parliamentary seat, Arukh has been representing Bhanjanagar Assembly constituency (AC) since 1995. Criticising the Opposition, Pandian said the parties are hatching a conspiracy to stop Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana, Mission Shakti programmes and even prevented the women members of SHGs to go to Dubai. The BJD believes in work, and not in rhetoric. But Opposition is conspiring to stop all development work in Odisha. The Opposition parties are fundamentally anti-development, said Pandian adding Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is keen to make Odisha prosperous. I call the Opposition to come and see the unwavering support and love people have for Naveen Babu. The huge gathering despite the scorching heat will give them a sense of the peoples affection for the chief minister, said Pandian. Recalling his attachment with Ganjam as its former collector, he said all the transformation programmes of Odisha started from the district. My daughter was also born at Chhatrapur, recalled the bureaucrat-turned-politician. He said development projects worth Rs 60 crore are under implementation in Bhanjanagar AC. A sum of Rs 1.80 crore was sanctioned for development of Jagannath Temple and Maa Byaghradevi temple, Rs 1.10 crore for Dhabaleswar temple and Rs 5.50 crore for development of 120 temples, mosques and community centres, he said listing out the works. Similarly, the Rs 50 crore worth of projects in Polasara Assembly segment and development works valued at Rs 45 crore are underway at Sorada segment, he added. Along with Bhanjanagar, Pandian addressed election meetings at Sorada, Polosara, Sanakhemundi in Ganjam and G Udayagiri in Kandhamal district. He also went to Bhawanipatna to oversee campaigning of BJD in Kalahandi, particularly in Bhawanipatna Assembly segment. Pandian participated in a massive road show in the evening from Kalahandi University chowk to Women college chowk accompanied by BJDs Bhawanipatna candidate Lalita Naik. After the rally Pandian interacted with party workers, giving them tips for success.
Congress loss could be double gain for BJP in Talsara Assembly segment
ROURKELA: Congress loss appears to be BJPs gain in Sundargarh district after the grand old party in a suicidal decision dumped former India hockey captain Prabod Tirkey and the BJP lost no time to make him its minority face. Declared as Congress candidate from Talsara Assembly constituency (AC), Prabod had started campaign when he was unceremoniously replaced with a lesser-known new entrant Debendra Bhitiria, a man from the dominant Bhuiyan tribal community. It is believed the Congress did so with an eye to getting Bhuiyan votes. The rocky start to the new career of the political greenhorn has come as a boon for the BJP as Prabod (39), a tribal Christian, has now turned its face helping the saffron party to cosy up with minority voters. Prabod campaigning for the BJP assumes much significance in the backdrop of the Sundargarh Lok Sabha (LS) constituency conservatively accounts for between 2.85 lakh to 3.15 lakh Christian voters out of the total 15.67 lakh registered voters. Moreover, Sundargarh districts affinity for hockey, especially among the tribal Christians, is key to Prabod helping the BJP neutralise the BJDs Dilip Tirkey effect. In fact, BJD had fielded the hockey legend and Hockey India president Dilip as its Sundargarh LS candidate for its huge pull among the Christian community. With end of nomination filing, the BJP plans to use Prabodh to woo Christian voters and hockey lovers although Prabod is no match for the immense popularity of Dilip. Whatever minority votes BJP draws would be a bonus, a senior BJP leader said. Prabod said he is personally meeting and convincing people of his community that BJP is the right choice for development and economic growth of the country, state and local areas. He has been attending small group meetings with BJP heavyweight candidate and sitting MP Jual Oram and was seen on the forefront during the nomination filing processions of Jual and all seven Assembly candidates including Rourkela candidate Dilip Ray and three sitting MLAs. Prabod said he is getting positive response but elderly people of his community continue to be rigid about BJP, adding he is convinced they will slowly come to like BJPs tagline of Sabka Saath, Sabka Bikash, Sabka Biswas and Sabka Prayas. Sundargarh organisational district president of BJP and Talsara candidate Bhawani Shankar Bhoi said the former hockey star is a popular name in Sundargarh and asset for the BJP. During Congress campaign in Talsara, Prabod was pulling impressive crowd, he said, adding even committed voters are angry with the Congress for insulting the national pride.
Poll fever grips Cuttack as bigwigs file nominations
CUTTACK: Several rallies were taken out in the city on Friday several heavyweight candidates including BJPs Bhartruhari Mahtab, BJDs Santrupt Misra and Samrudha Odishas Minati Patnaik, known for giving away her property worth Rs 1 crore to a rickshaw puller, filing their nominations for Cuttack Parliamentary constituency. Mahtab, rode pillion on a bike and arrived at the returning officer and district collector Arindam Dakuas office along with a handful of supporters. This election will certainly be a fight for Odia Asmita. The BJP has already announced and promised financial assistance to women through welfare schemes and pensions. Along with development, there is Prime Minister Narendra Modis guarantee. The problems of Cuttack district like lack of industries, cold storages and defunct sugar mills, will be addressed. The fight is for a double-engine government and to protect Odia Asmita, Mahtab told mediapersons after filing his nomination. Santrupt, however, arrived at the office in a huge workers rally from Biju Patnaik Park and filed his nomination in the presence of Agriculture Minister Ranendra Pratap Swain, Rajya Sabha MP Debasish Samantaray, CMC Mayor Subhas Singh, Barabati-Cuttack MLA candidate Prakash Behera. Development and transformation work undertaken by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and his popularity are reflected in each household of Cuttack. It will help me winning the election with a huge margin, said Misra to mediapersons after filing his nomination. Minati of Sutahat locality, who moved by love and affection shown by a rickshaw puller and his family had adopted him and gifted him all her jewellery, land and residential building worth Rs 1 crore in 2021, has also filed her nomination for contesting as a candidate of Samruddha Odisha. BJPs Bhartruhari Mahtab filing nomination on Friday | Express I have been serving the poor and distressed after the death of my daughter and husband. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik who has been governing Odisha for the last 25 years does not like Odia people. I dont know why Pandian, a non-Odia stands by his side. Similarly six-time MP Bhartruhari Mahtab keeps harping about receiving the best parliamentarian award. What did the people of Cuttack get from his award. I have also received several awards after media highlighted my story of donating my property to a rickshaw puller. Samruddha Odisha political party has given me ticket and I am going to contest the election. I assure to serve people and develop villages. If people express discontentment, then I shall resign within a year, said Minati. Apart from nomination of three MP candidates, Congress nominee for Barabati-Cuttack Assembly segment Sofia Firdous accompanied by her father Mohammad Moquim and a few of her supporters filed her nomination paper before returning officer-cum-sub-collector Jyoti Sankar Roy. In view of scorching heat, I did not want to trouble my workers. Hence instead of a rally, I came with my father and a few supporters to file my nomination, said Sofia. Similarly BJDs nominee for Choudwar-Cuttack Assembly segment Souvic Biswal, BJPs Nayan Kishore Mohanty and Congress candidate Meera Mallik arrived in rallies to file their nominations on Thursday. BJDs candidate for Cuttack Sadar seat Chandra Sarathi Behera and BJP candidate Prakash Chandra Sethi filed their nomination before ADM (Election) Siba Toppo on the day.
BJD seeks action against IFS officer for poll code violation
BHUBANESWAR: Senior BJD leader and Rajya Sabha member Sasmit Patra on Friday sought action against IFS officer Binay Srikant Pradhan for allegedly campaigning for Union Minister and BJPs Sambalpur Lok Sabha constituency candidate Dharmendra Pradhan. This came a day after senior BJP leaders moved the Election Commission of India (ECI) against Mission Shakti secretary Sujata Karthikeyan accusing her of misusing authority. Addressing mediapersons, Patra said Binay, who is presently posted at the Indian consulate general in New York, has been actively involved in campaign of Pradhan. This is in clear violation of the model code of conduct (MCC) and the guidelines issued by ECI. He also violated the government service rules. The chief election commissioner, union cabinet secretary and secretary of External Affairs were informed about it on April 24. But no action has been taken yet, he said. Patra said, Binay was the officer on special duty (OSD) of the Union Minister from 2014 to 2019 when the latter was in-charge of Petroleum and Natural Gas ministry. He continues to keep both professional and personal relationship with the minister which violates different sections of Representation of the People Act, 1951, Patra said. The BJD leader alleged the IFS officer took leave for nearly a month and landed in Sambalpur. He is not only staying in the house where the BJP candidate is presently accommodated but is also looking after his campaign, he said. Demanding immediate verification of Binays phone calls and tracking of his movements, Patra said the ECI should enquire into his purpose of visit to Sambalpur, where he is staying and what he is doing. After a thorough investigation, the ECI must take appropriate action as per rules against the IFS officer to ensure free, fair and transparent elections, he added. The IFS officer could not be contacted for his comment.
Odisha MLA Soumya finally makes up his mind, to contest from Ghasipura as Independent candidate
BHUBANESWAR: Khandapada MLA Soumya Ranjan Patnaik on Friday said he will fight the Assembly election from Ghasipura as an Independent candidate. While many wondered why Soumya did not join BJP, he announced his next move after a public meeting in Ghasipura, one of the Assembly constituencies of Keonjhar district. I took the decision to contest from Ghasipura following requests from people of the constituency, Soumya said. He had hinted on April 30 of getting an offer from the BJP to contest from the seat. Soumya had previously shared with media that several people pressured him to contest the election. However, the BJP on Thursday nominated Shambhunath Rout from the seat. Senior BJP leader and three-time MP from Balasore Kharabela Swain also announced to contest from the parliamentary constituency as an Independent after his request for nomination from the seat was turned down by the party. Asserting he will win as the official candidate of BJP is quite unpopular in the constituency, Swain said he is confident that the party will take him under its fold after the elections. Earlier, Swain had suggested the party to field him from Balasore Lok Sabha seat and nominate sitting MP Pratap Sarangi from Nilagiri. The former MP took the decision to fight as an Independent after the BJP named Santosh Khatua from Nilagiri seat. Khatua contested the 2019 election from Nilagiri on a BJD ticket and came second after losing to Sukanta Nayak of BJP. Nayak quit the BJP to join BJD and got nomination from the regional party. Similarly, four-time Bari MLA and former minister Debasis Nayak who joined BJP recently with the hope to get nomination from the saffron party also announced to contest the upcoming Assembly polls from the constituency as an Independent candidate. Nayak announced his decision on social media after the BJP fielded Umesh Jena as its candidate for Bari. Former BJD MLA from Khandapada Anubhav Patnaik filed his nomination papers as Independent on Friday after the party denied him a ticket.
Odisha police step up enforcement for elections
BHUBANESWAR: In a bid to ensure free and peaceful polls, the city police has initiated 901 proceedings against 4,275 anti-socials under section 107 of CrPC . Of them, 2,179 have been bound down. Police have initiated proceedings against 171 habitual offenders under section 110 CrPC and about 126 have been bound down till date. Section 107 of CrPC authorises a magistrate to order an anti-social to agree to a bond which asks him to maintain peace for a prescribed period. Section 110 CrPC is security for good behaviour of habitual offenders. Police have enhanced enforcement to check transportation of illicit liquor, ganja and brown sugar, illegal cash, arms and ammunition, among other things. At least 580 kg ganja and 1,267 gm brown sugar have been seized and 61 peddlers arrested. Police have seized five illegal firearms along with 24 ammunition and arrested two persons. Holders of 953 licensed guns have deposited their weapons in police stations. Around 279 more guns are in the process of getting deposited. Police said out of 1,117 booths, 149 have been identified as critical. One company of CAPF and local police are conducting flag marches in critical areas to instill a sense of confidence among the voters. Steps will be taken to set up webcasting in all critical booths. Flying squads comprising magistrates, police and static surveillance teams (SST) have been deployed to check movement of cash, liquor, drugs and other illegal articles. The Commissionerate Police will further intensify blocking and checking, set up nakas at strategic places to detect illegal transportation of cash during election process, said a police officer.
Abhivyakti brings paintings of legendary artists to Bhubaneswar; show on till May 7
BHUBANESWAR: Be it MF Husains Ganesha, Sayed Haider Razas Bindu or Samarendra Nath Ghoshs Rabindranath Tagore he had drawn back in 1934, members of Odishas art fraternity as well as the general public can see works of some of the legends of Indian art at the state museum in the city. The paintings are being showcased as part of Abhivyakti: Vignettes of the Indian Art exhibition, inaugurated by chief secretary Pradeep Jena on April 28. At least 36 paintings, considered the best across the vast spectrum of modern Indian art - are part of the exhibition, organised by the museum in collaboration with city-based ArtistMindz. Carrom Boards, a painting done with oil on canvas in 1981 by veteran artist Bhupen Khakhar is a part of the exhibition. The painting, a blend of both Indian and European traditions, shows three men playing carrom under the yellow light of a bulb in the backdrop of an evening market crowd - a sight that an observer can often locate within his or her world. Khakhar was known for his artistic observations of everyday life. Similarly, an untitled work of FN Souza - another master of Indian art - is part of the exhibition. Souzas art works are often considered an eclectic blend of many styles including African tribal art, European modernism and Indian temple sculptures. Apart from Rabindranath Tagore, another work of Samarendra Homemakers of a Bengal Village is on display showcasing women engaged in household chores. His paintings are popular for evoking nostalgia of rural Bengal. Another untitled work on people heading to work in a rural landscape is by NS Bendre, who is celebrated for his contribution to modern Indian art. Bendra was known for his landscapes, portraitures and depictions of everyday life and experiences. Some of the other artists whose work are on display are Ganesh Haloi, Hemen Majumdar, Jamini Roy, Jaya Jena, Jogen Chowdhary, Nasreen Mohamedi, Ramananda Bandyopadhyay, Sailoz Mookherjea, and Sayed Haider Raza. Arun Kumar Bera of ArtistMindz said the exhibition is aimed at providing an opportunity to the common man to get a feel of some of the greatest Indian art pieces by celebrated artists. Many of the works are rare and have been auctioned for crores in different parts of the country and abroad, he added. Curated by art curator Jyoti A Kathpalia, the exhibition will continue till May 7.
Shalini named commissioner of Mission Shakti department
Rahul addresses Rayagada rally virtually
Sr citizens appeal for caregivers
Heat on colleges with zero admission in some subjects
Jr assistant arrested for taking bribe
ORERA fines realtor 50L for violating Act provisions
Spl vehicles to rescue animals in distress
Oppn trying to stall devpt works: Pandian
Rs 461 crore assets, ex-Birla exec is richest Odisha candidate
Santrupt Misra, ex-HR head of Aditya Birla, contests Lok Sabha from Cuttack with Rs 461 crore assets. Joined BJD post-retirement. ITRs: Rs 76.23 crore income, Bank deposits: Rs 4 crore. Movable assets: Rs 408 crore. Owns luxury cars.
461cr assets, ex-Birla exec is richest Odisha candidate
Santrupt Misra, ex-HR head of Aditya Birla, contests Lok Sabha from Cuttack with Rs 461 crore assets. Joined BJD post-retirement. ITRs: Rs 76.23 crore income, Bank deposits: Rs 4 crore. Movable assets: Rs 408 crore. Owns luxury cars.
Chhattisgarhi flavour fills the air in Nuapada campaigning
Gunupur assembly seat set for triangular family fight
No relief from intense heat in Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha as mercury soars
Intense heatwave spell affecting east India and parts of the southern peninsular region continued unabated, with temperatures settling above 44 degrees Celsius in at least 13 places.
651 Maoist-Sensitive Polling Stations in Agency 2 Choppers To Fly Poll Officials
Picture used for representation purpose. Photo: PTI Picture used for representation purpose. Photo: PTI Visakhapatnam: The police in Alluri Sitarama Raju and Parvathipuram districts are focusing on Maoist-influenced polling stations for conducting the elections in a smooth manner on May 13. Cops in the two districts have identified 651 LWE sensitive and 238 law and order problem polling stations. A police official in ASR district said that they have identified 610 Left Wing Extremist sensitive and 85 law and order sensitive stations out of the total 1021 polling stations. The district election officer has arranged two helicopters to fly the polling officials to Gruttedu under Y Ramavaram mandal of Rampachodavaram assembly constituency. Funds have been sanctioned early to install cell towers and improve roads to several polling stations in the district. We have set up check posts and are frisking suspicious persons at various locations in the district, said a police officer. Araku Lok Sabha seat (ST), which consists of LWE affected assembly segments like Paderu, Araku Valley, Rampachodavaram, Parvathipuram and Saluru, will go to polls on May 13. The official said 30 polling booths in Chintoor and Munchingput mandals have been shifted due to the Maoist threat perception. The special police launched an area-domination exercise in the bordering areas of Odisha and Chhattisgarh after a large number of Maoists were neutralized in Chhattisgarh, to ensure they do not cross over to AP via the Odisha border, he added. The outlawed Maoists recently released a pamphlet in Munchingput and other areas close to the Odisha border, appealing to the people to boycott the elections. Maoists had shot down Araku MLA Kidari Sarveswara Rao and his predecessor Siveri Soma in Livitput village near Araku Valley on September 23, 2018, some 10 months before the 2019 elections. In Parvathipuram Manyam district, out of the total 981 polling stations, 41 have been identified as Maoist-sensitive and 153 law and order problem stations.
Rahul Gandhi becomes 3rd Generation of Gandhi family to Contest from Raebareli
New Delhi:Congress has changed its generation in Uttar Pradeshs Raebareli Lok Sabha constituency. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi filed his nomination papers from Raebareli on Friday, a seat that has been represented by his family for generations. The Raebareli seat, where his grandfather, grandmother and mother had fought and won elections, for the first time Rahul [] The post Rahul Gandhi becomes 3rd Generation of Gandhi family to Contest from Raebareli appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
MI vs KKR, IPL 2024: Kolkata Knight Riders beat Mumbai Indians after 12 years at Wankhede
In a dramatic game where the pendulum swung from one end to the other, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) sealed a 24-run victory over the Mumbai Indians (MI). The margin of victory doesnt reveal how close the match was, but both sides had their moments, however, KKR held their nerve and clinched a victory at the [] The post MI vs KKR, IPL 2024: Kolkata Knight Riders beat Mumbai Indians after 12 years at Wankhede appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Ranjit Majhi, a champion of implementing Forest Rights Act (FRA), was on Friday awarded with the prestigious Shambhavi Puraskar 2024, instituted by the Bansidhar and Ila Panda Foundation (BIPF). Majhi empowered people of 112 villages in Odishas Sundargarh district with the Forest Land Rights and also worked towards environment protection and revival. At a grand event held today to mark the 11th edition of the Shambhavi Puraskar, Majhi was awarded with a cash award of Rs 2.5 lakh. My village is in a reserved forest area where there is no mobile network and we have to climb trees or hills. So, I decided to help other villagers. I am happy that the Bansidhar and Ila Panda Foundation (BIPF) recognised my work, said Majhi. Apart from Majhi, Sasmita Mangaraj was also felicitated on the occasion for her contribution towards women empowerment through livelihood and making them self-reliant. Mangaraj was awarded with a cash award of Rs 50,000 and felicitated by the Jury. Several eminent personalities including Chetna Sinha, founder and chairperson of Mann Deshi Bank, Lt General C P Mohanty and others attended the Shambhavi Puraskar 2024.
Shredding Secrets for Women You Must Know
Studies say that women tend to gain weight more easily than men, welcoming a lot of health risks. However, the weight loss journey for all women is unique and many factors affect it. Some factors like metabolism, ageing, and hormones can make your fitness journey even more challenging. If you want to lose fat and [] The post Shredding Secrets for Women You Must Know appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
After ECI Intervention Sujata Karthikeyan IAS Shunted Out of Mission Shakti Dept
Hours after the Election Commission of India (ECI) ordered for shifting of Odisha Mission Shakti secretary Sujata Pandian to a non-people department, the state government on Friday transferred her to the finance department as special secretary. The ECI order to transfer came late on Thursday night following the Bharatiya Janata Partys allegations of misuse of public office. The ECI had Thursday night asked the state government for transfer of Sujata Pandian who is the wife of Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaiks most trusted aide V Karthikeyan Pandian. The BJP alleged in its complaint that Sujata is working like an agent of BJD. Besides, she is intimidating members of women self-help-groups (SHGs) to cast their votes for the BJD. She is also using the Mission Shakti department to persuade around 70 lakh women voters, the party alleged. The saffron party, in the complaint, had demanded that the official be relieved from the post of secretary and not be assigned any public dealing till the conclusion of the parliamentary and assembly elections in Odisha. Women empowerment is not the real motive of the BJD. Rather, it uses women SHGs for its own during election time. There is evidence that Sujata Pandian has been threatening SHGs to work for the BJD and not to vote for the BJP. It has been proved that BJD wants to use SHGs for its own gain, said BJP spokesperson Anil Biswal.
Enjoy Your Music in Earphones with Some Benefits
Imagine that you want to be free from the outside world. Filter out all the noise in the world and immerse yourself in the music of your choice and whats better than using earphones? The benefit of Practicality and the importance of having earphones throughout our lives at work. And relaxation is easy. Earphones have [] The post Enjoy Your Music in Earphones with Some Benefits appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Iran Releases Seized Ship MSC Aries, Including 16 Indian Crew Members
Iran has released all crew members of the Portuguese-flagged cargo ship MSC Aries, which was seized near the Strait of Hormuz on 13 April. The ship had 25 crew members onboard, including 17 Indian nationals. The release was confirmed by Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian during a telephone conversation with his Estonian counterpart, Margus Tsahkna. [] The post Iran Releases Seized Ship MSC Aries, Including 16 Indian Crew Members appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Pranab Criticizes Dharmendra Over Sujata Karthikeyans Transfer
Bhubaneswar: After the transfer of Secretary of Mission Shakti department, IAS Sujata R. Karthikeyan, wife of 5T Chairman VK Pandian, the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has criticised Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who is BJP MP candidate from Sambalpur. BJDs Organisational Secretary Pranab Prakash Das, in an X post, said that Dharmendra Pradhan dreamed of [] The post Pranab Criticizes Dharmendra Over Sujata Karthikeyans Transfer appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Rohit Vemula Not a Dalit, No Case of Suicide Abetment: Police in Closure Report
Hyderabad: The Hyderabad police have presented a closure report to a local court regarding the 2016 suicide of Rohith Vemula, a student of University of Hyderabad. The report revealed that Vemula was not a Dalit and suggests that fear of his real identity being revealed may have led to his suicide. According to the police [] The post Rohit Vemula Not a Dalit, No Case of Suicide Abetment: Police in Closure Report appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
IPL: Kolkata Knight Riders beat Mumbai Indians by 24 runs
Mumbai: Kolkata Knight Riders bowlers rose to the occasion and defended a modest total en route to a 24-run win over Kolkata Knight Riders in an Indian Premier League match here Friday. Incidentally, it was KKRs first win over MI in Mumbai after 12 years. Opting to bowl, Jasprit Bumrah (3/18) was at his best []
Tata Steel SEZ, Hygenco Sign MoU For Green Ammonia And Green Hydrogen Project In Odisha
Under the agreement, Hygenco will acquire land in Ganjam district to establish its green hydrogen, green ammonia, and derivatives unit, according to the agreement.
BJD candidate Santrupt Misra richest in fray so far with Rs 461 crore assets
Santrupt Misra, the wealthiest Lok Sabha candidate in Odisha, declared assets of Rs 461 crore, including investments, London bank deposits, and luxury cars. In comparison, Dilip Ray has assets worth Rs 300 crore, while Sanatan Mahakud aims for Champua seat with Rs 152 crore.
JMMs Odisha Candidate List: Shibu Sorens Daughter to Fight for Both MP, MLA Seats
Bhubaneswar: The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) announced its candidate list for the upcoming Odisha general elections on Friday. The list includes candidates for five assembly seats. Anjani Soren, the daughter of JMM leader Shibu Soren and the sister of ex-CM Hemant Soren is set to run for the Mayurbhanj Lok Sabha seat as well as [] The post JMMs Odisha Candidate List: Shibu Sorens Daughter to Fight for Both MP, MLA Seats appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Mercury settles at 44.6 degC in Odishas Boudh, IMD sees no relief from intense heat
New Delhi: The record-breaking heatwave spell affecting east India and parts of the southern peninsular region continued unabated Friday, with temperatures settling above 44 degrees Celsius in at least 13 places. Intensely hot conditions prevailed in parts of Odisha, Gangetic West Bengal, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Maximum temperatures settled in the range of []
Modi to address election rallies in Odisha May 6
Bhubaneswar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president J P Nadda are scheduled to visit Odisha over the next few days to campaign for the simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. PM Modi is scheduled to address two political rallies in Berhampur and Nabarangpur Lok Sabha constituencies May 6. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is []
Soumya Ranjan Patnaik to Fight from Ghasipura Seat as Independent Candidate
Bhubaneswar: Ending all speculations, Khandapada MLA Soumya Ranjan Patnaik confirmed on Friday that he will run as an Independent candidate in the upcoming elections from the Ghasipura Assembly constituency in Odisha. Patnaik made this declaration following a public meeting in Ghasipura, Keonjhar district. The MLS stated that he took the decision respecting the wishes of [] The post Soumya Ranjan Patnaik to Fight from Ghasipura Seat as Independent Candidate appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
Heatwave to Persist for Two More Days in Eastern and Southern Peninsular India
Heatwave to Persist for Two More Days in Eastern and Southern Peninsular India The record-breaking heatwave spell affecting east India and parts of the southern peninsular region continued unabated on Friday, with temperatures settling above 44 degrees Celsius in at least 13 places. Intensely hot conditions prevailed in parts of Gangetic West Bengal, Odisha, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Maximum temperatures settled in the range of 43-46 degrees Celsius in parts of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha, Vidarbha, Madhya Maharashtra and 40-43 degrees in parts of Gangetic West Bengal, Marathwada and north interior Karnataka, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said. Nandyal in Andhra Pradesh sizzled at 46.3 degrees Celsius, the highest maximum temperature in the country on Friday. The mercury settled at 44.6 degrees Celsius in Odisha's Boudh, 45 degrees in Khammam (Telangana), 46.2 degrees in Cuddapah (Andhra Pradesh), 43.4 degrees in Erode (Tamil Nadu), and 44.6 degrees in West Bengal's Kalaikunda. The IMD said the ongoing heatwave spell in east and south peninsular India will continue until May 5-6 and abate thereafter. The Met office on Wednesday said above-normal maximum temperatures are likely over most parts of the country in May and a significantly high number of heatwave days expected over the northern plains, central region and adjoining areas of peninsular India. April witnessed record-smashing maximum temperatures in east, northeast and southern peninsular India, prompting health warnings from government agencies and some states to suspend in-person classes in schools. A number of stations recorded their highest-ever April day temperatures. Five active western disturbances led to rainfall, thunderstorms and hail storms over north and central India at regular intervals in April, preventing heat waves. IMD data shows that heat waves this April were far worse than in 2023, the warmest year on record so far. This trend is likely to continue in May, with around eight to 11 heatwave days predicted over the south Rajasthan, west Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Marathwada and the Gujarat regions. The remaining parts of Rajasthan, east Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and some parts of Chhattisgarh, interior Odisha, Gangetic West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, north interior Karnataka and Telangana may record five to seven heatwave days during the month. Normally, the northern plains, central India and adjoining areas of peninsular India experience around three days of heat waves in May. India witnessed two spells of heat waves in April -- from April 5 to 7 and April 15 to 30. The IMD attributed the prolonged heatwave spell over east, northeast and south peninsular India in April to the absence of thunderstorms and an anticyclone at lower levels over the west central Bay of Bengal and the adjoining eastern coasts of India. This caused the sea breeze to cut off over Odisha and West Bengal on most days. The weather office said south peninsular India recorded an average maximum temperature of 31 degrees Celsius in April, the second-highest since 1901. The mean temperature (28.12 degrees Celsius) in April in east and northeast India was the highest since 1901, it said. The IMD said above-normal maximum temperatures have become frequent over south peninsular India since the 1980s. The region recorded 12.6 mm rainfall in April -- the fifth lowest since 1901 and the second-lowest since 2001. According to IMD data, the number of heatwave days this April was the highest in 15 years in Gangetic West Bengal and nine years in Odisha. Odisha also experienced the longest heatwave spell (16 days) in April since 2016. Amid the prevailing but weakening El Nino conditions, the IMD had earlier warned of extreme heat during the April-June period, coinciding with the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections. Hundreds of thousands of voters had to cope with the searing heat when they stepped out to exercise their franchise in the second phase of the elections on April 26. Polling for 94 constituencies across 12 states will take place on May 7. The weather office had earlier expected four to eight heatwave days in different parts of the country in April against a normal of one to three days. Ten to 20 heatwave days are expected against a normal of four to eight in the entire April-June period.
Seven Towns In Odisha Record Max Temp Above 43C; Boudh Sizzles At 44.6C
Bhubaneswar: About 26 towns in Odisha recorded maximum day temperatures above 40C, while Boudh became the hottest city in the state with 44.6 C on Friday, the IMD regional centre here said. The mercury soared to 43C in seven towns in the state. Following Boudh, Titlagarh recorded 44C, Nuapada 43.9 C, Balangir 43.4 C, Malkangiri [] The post Seven Towns In Odisha Record Max Temp Above 43C; Boudh Sizzles At 44.6C appeared first on Pragativadi | Odisha News, Breaking News Odisha, Latest Odisha News .
