30, Oct 2026
AAEON to Showcase the Next Wave of Edge AI Applications at Smart City Expo 2026
Booth C163 will host five live demonstrations featuring the technologies shaping the future of smart cities.
Taipei, Taiwan – Oct 30: AAEON (Stock Code: 6579), an industry-leading provider of edge AI solutions, today announced it will host five live demonstrations at Smart City Expo World Congress in Barcelona, illustrating how its platforms can support smarter mobility, urban safety, agentic workflow automation, and interactive robotics. Built on NVIDIA Jetson, AAEON’s demonstrations will highlight a range of AI applications, from real-time video analytics and emergency detection to on-device AI agents and human-machine interaction
Venue: Fira de Barcelona, Spain
Date: 3 – 5 November, 2026
Booth: Hall 3, Booth C163
The show, which now enters its 15th year, allows leaders from global companies, governments and organizations to converge and share how new technologies can be leveraged to improve urban living.
In keeping with the exhibition’s theme, AAEON’s booth will illustrate how its NVIDIA-accelerated AI systems can enable real-world smart city applications, in collaboration with leading software and hardware vendors from the global ecosystem.
AAEON’s first live demonstration will feature the MAXER-5000 AI inference server, powered by NVIDIA Jetson T5000 module. The platform will run a spatial workflow agent from ANIWEAVE powered by Avalanche Computing’s compliance-ready agentic AI software platform, which leverages resources from a number of open model families to bring secure, policy-governed edge AI operation to internal network environments.
The BOXER-8652AI, compact fanless embedded AI system accelerated by NVIDIA Jetson Orin NX, will also be on display in the form of an AI video analytics solution featuring the Isarsoft Perception software platform. This demonstration will provide real-time traffic insights at the edge for the purposes of supporting smarter and safer urban mobility.
The NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano-powered BOXER-8621AI will be on-site as part of a USB camera-based object detection solution. This will incorporate device identity and AI model security software from SandGrain, USB camera-based object detection in drone vision using Network Optix Meta and Ultralytics YOLO, remote management from Balena, and runtime protection from Exein.
AAEON will also reveal a new bespoke rugged tablet, the RTC-1210-Orin NX, which will showcase the in-field potential of technologies such as Pollen Robotics’ Reachy Mini, a companion robot agent designed to enable human-machine interaction.
AAEON’s final live demonstration will show the BOXER-8640AI, powered by NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin, as part of an emergency detection and response system. Equipped with A.I Tech’s suite of over 20 applications and protocols, this will demonstrate how AI-driven video analytics can be used to expedite the detection risks in urban environments, such as poor road and weather conditions.
At booth C163, visitors will also find a showcase area with upcoming products from AAEON’s roadmap featuring technologies accelerated by both NVIDIA Jetson Orin and NVIDIA Jetson Thor modules.
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- By Neel Achary
30, Oct 2026
Leading Med Spa Founder Shares Four Rules for Survival in a Tough Economy
CHARLOTTE, NC | Oct 30 — As economic headwinds put pressure on discretionary consumer spending, medical spa owners nationwide are looking for ways to protect their businesses without compromising quality. Kristin Cabeda, founder and CEO of the acclaimed Plumped Aesthetic Boutique – a top med spa in Charlotte – is sharing her roadmap for navigating challenging economies, drawing from her unique experience of launching a flagship med spa weeks before the global lockdowns of 2020. This summer, Cabeda opened a second location to serve the Charlotte suburbs and continues to be recognized for her treatments on locals and celebrities alike.
“The biggest gift to Plumped has been being smart financially from the very beginning,” said Cabeda. “By not taking on a ton of debt and financing things personally as you go, we’ve been able to alleviate a lot of the stress that comes from owning a med spa during economic uncertainty.”
Cabeda also notes that for med spa owners with debt, it’s not the end of the world. Instead of chasing volume or aggressively discounting services, Cabeda advises owners to double down on internal culture, lean operations, and relationship-driven pricing models to weather through the storm.
“Navigating an uncertain economy isn’t about panicking and trying to reinvent your business overnight,” said Cabeda. “It’s about optimizing what you already do best, fostering deep trust with your team, and creating a transparent, low-barrier experience that turns first-time patients into lifelong clients.”
Cabeda outlines four core strategies for med spa survival and sustainable growth during tough economic times:
- Lead as a Collaborator, Not a Distant Boss: A fractured internal culture directly degrades the patient experience. Owners should integrate staff into operational decision-making, cultivating an environment of mutual respect. When employees feel ownership over the business’s goals, they maintain the high-trust, consistent environment required to retain anxious clients.
- Maximize Existing Assets Before Scaling: Financial strain often drives owners to invest in expensive new devices to chase fleeting trends. Cabeda warns against taking on heavy debt. Instead, spas should pause capital expenditures and maximize the efficiency and margins of services they already offer.
- Design Strategic “Gateway” Treatments: In a down economy, upfront multi-thousand-dollar packages can deter patients. Med spas should offer high-satisfaction, lower-cost entry treatments. These serve as a low-barrier introduction to the practice, building trust that naturally evolves into comprehensive, long-term care plans.
- Commit to Radically Transparent, Value-Driven Care: Discerning consumers quickly abandon establishments where they feel over-treated or pressured into sales. Cultivating an ethos centered on honest consultations and natural, “refreshed” results builds fierce consumer loyalty that economic shifts cannot erode.
While the total U.S. med spa industry revenue has grown to over $17–$18 billion, the number of physical locations has skyrocketed—exploding from roughly 1,600 spas in 2010 to over 11,500. Because supply is growing faster than new consumer acquisition, the financial math for individual owners has become much tougher.
By focusing on these core fundamentals, medical aesthetics practices can build a resilient foundation that can weather economic uncertainty while setting the stage for lean, highly strategic future growth.
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30, Oct 2026
ICFAI Business School Opens IBSAT 2026 Slot Booking and Flexible December Test Schedule for MBA/PGPM Admissions
HYDERABAD, India, Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ICFAI Business School (IBS) has officially opened the slot booking portal for the IBSAT 2026 entrance examination, introducing a candidate-centric test schedule designed to provide candidates with enhanced flexibility. Aspirants applying for the two-year, full-time MBA and PGPM programs (2027–29) across all nine IBS campuses can now select their preferred test dates and time slots for the December examination window.
The IBSAT 2026 exam is an online, remote-proctored entrance test with a syllabus similar to CAT and other national management entrance exams. It comprises 140 questions across four sections—Verbal Ability, Reading Comprehension, Quantitative Aptitude, and Data Adequacy & Data Interpretation—to be completed in 2 hours.
Flexible Test Schedule and Slot Booking
To offer seamless scheduling, IBSAT 2026 will be conducted across eight distinct test dates spread across four consecutive weekends in December 2026: December 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 19th, 20th, 26th, and 27th. Candidates can select between two daily exam slots:
- Morning Slot: 11:00 AM
- Afternoon Slot: 3:00 PM
Because seat availability for each test date and time window is limited, applicants are encouraged to complete their slot booking early to secure their preferred schedule.
How to Book Exam Slots
- Visit the official portal at ibsat.org and login.
- Click on the Schedule IBSAT option in the left navigation menu.
- Click on the book slot link
- Log in using your Application Number and Password (sent via email from ibsat@ibsindia.org).
- Choose your preferred test date and time slot.
Results and Timeline
Under the updated structure, exam results and scholarship allotments will be announced on December 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th, immediately following each test weekend. This rolling declaration provides candidates with quick outcome clarity and sufficient lead time to arrange travel and logistics for the centralized selection process, scheduled for February 2027 at IBS Hyderabad. Specific dates will be communicated directly to the candidates.
National Mock Tests and Rewards
To assist candidates in their preparation, ICFAI Business School (IBS) is offering free online mock tests on ibsat.org. Two national mock test windows remain open on November 21st and December 9th. Over 5,000 aspirants have participated in previous sessions. The top 100 rankers in the national mock tests will be awarded performance cash prizes:
- 1st Prize: ₹2,00,000
- 2nd Prize: ₹1,00,000
- 3rd Prize: ₹50,000
- 4th to 100th Rankers: ₹5,000 each
Selection Briefings & Alternate Entrance Scores
In January 2027, ICFAI Business School (IBS) will host selection briefings across major cities nationwide. Dates and venues will be communicated directly to candidates, providing them an opportunity to interact with senior faculty members and alumni.
Candidates planning to submit CAT, XAT, NMAT by GMAC™, or GMAT™ scores are also strongly advised to submit their applications early. Applying early allows candidates to complete their profile registration and receive invitations to the local selection briefings ahead of their official scorecard releases. Throughout the application cycle, designated IBS Information Officers remain available to assist applicants by conducting mock interview rounds.
About IBS Hyderabad
ICFAI Business School (IBS), Hyderabad is a constituent of the ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education. Offering an AACSB-accredited, two-year, full-time MBA program, ICFAI Business School (IBS) combines case-based learning with rigorous corporate exposure. It is ranked 21st by Business Today (2026), 46th in the NIRF rankings (2025), and 3rd globally in the Case Impact Index (2025). Campus placement reports for the Class of 2026 are accessible online at ibsindia.org, while real-time placement updates for the Class of 2027 will be shared during the upcoming selection process.
Contact:
Office: IBS Admission Office, Plot No. 65,
Nagarjuna Hills, Punjagutta,
Hyderabad – 500082
Toll-Free: 1800 425 55 66 77
Phone: 040 – 23440963
Email: ibsat@ibsindia.org
Websites: ibsat.org | ibsindia.org
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30, Oct 2026
Hon Hai Technology Group (Foxconn) Unveils 3 Distinctive EV Models At HHTD26
- MODEL A+ expands B2B product portfolios in fastest-growing B-segment SUV
- MODEL K+ SUV playful styling gives nostalgic touches of Japan with neo city pop
- MODEL K taps into kei-class trucks with design language of MODEL T
- Flexing CDMS strength to accelerate electromobility for automotive clients
TAIPEI, Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Hon Hai Technology Group (Foxconn) (TWSE: 2317) on Friday flexed its contract design and manufacturing service (CDMS) strength for automotive clients by unveiling three new reference electric vehicles aimed at under-penetrated markets, while offering cost competitive options and flexible design platforms.
Two eye-catching SUVs, the MODEL A+ and MODEL K+, alongside the MODEL K compact truck, extend Foxconn’s electromobility progress into the kei-class trucks popular in Japan and brings the Group’s EV range to a total of 12 reference models.
“The new reference EVs join Foxconn’s emerging ecosystem in electromobility that is accelerating time-to-market, time-to-cost and time-to-technology for our customers and partners,” said Jun Seki, Foxconn Chief Strategy Officer for EV.
All three new models were on display at Hon Hai Tech Day 2026 (HHTD26), the flagship annual technology conference of the world’s largest electronics manufacturer and the world premiere stage for the Group’s B2B electric vehicles. On the exhibition floor in Taipei, Foxconn’s electromobility ecosystem included demos of full stack, made in Taiwan battery developments from materials to cells and packs to BMS; E/E architecture; and powertrains for E2W and E3W.
Among EVs on display, a right-hand drive MODEL B gave attendees a chance to check out the result of CDMS collaboration, while onstage, Honda R&D and Mitsubishi Electric Mobility discussed, in separate remarks, their electromobility developments with Foxconn.
MODEL A+
An expressive luxury style yet authentic SUV for affluent drivers, the MODEL A+ is a deliberate move to expand B2B product portfolios in the fastest-growing B-segment SUV. With In-Wheel Motor technology and selectable EEA, a wild exterior design but ultimate space interior addresses flood capability emergencies, temporary living space and backup power for glamping and camping electromobility lifestyles.
MODEL K+
This is an expressive yet affordable SUV designed for active youth. Playful styling with nostalgic touches recall Japan’s city pop music era of the ’70s and ’80s, but with a neo city pop take for the modern day. The highly distinctive lifestyle SUV for a niche market targets B2B looking to develop their own brand’s lifestyle SUV EV, as well as OEMs looking to offer affordable yet distinctive vehicles for younger customers. With In-Wheel Motor technology, the MODEL K+ offers personalization of exterior, interior, driving range, and EEA for purpose-built capability at a competitive price.
MODEL K
This is a functional yet futuristic truck for forward-thinking business owners. Aimed at the specialized commercial kei truck class, the MODEL K finds use as last-mile and mobility service applications. Its alignment to support compliance to environmental regulations makes it attractive for decarbonization-focused entrepreneurs, municipalities, and government agencies while offering lower total cost of ownership (TCO) through reduced energy and maintenance costs. A functional beauty, inspired by the design language of Foxconn’s award-winning MODEL T electric bus, the canopy-ready MODEL K conceptualizes a lower bed height and longer bed length.
Other reference EV models to-date:
- MODEL T large bus
- MODEL C passenger SUV
- MODEL E luxury sedan
- MODEL B crossover SUV
- MODEL V truck
- MODEL N cargo van
- MODEL D LMUV
- MODEL U midi-bus
- MODEL A modular B-segment
About Foxconn here.
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30, Oct 2026
martinwolf Hires Liam Rawling
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – Oct 30– martinwolf, a leading lower middle-market M&A advisory firm focused exclusively on the IT sector, announced the hiring of Liam Rawling as Analyst. In this role, Liam is responsible for supporting the execution of M&A advisory engagements across the firm, with a focus on financial analysis, valuation, and diligence.
“During Liam’s internship with the firm, he demonstrated the tenacious always-fight-for-our-client attitude that sets us apart from other M&A advisors,” said Seth Collins, Managing Partner at martinwolf. “We’re glad to have him with us full time as we continue to build the next generation of talent at martinwolf.”
Liam supports sell-side processes across the IT services and software sector, analyzing business performance, conducting company and industry analyses, and preparing client materials throughout the transaction process. He has been instrumental in the firm’s AI adoption and implementation strategy and will also lead publication and maintenance of martinwolf’s Scoreboard, an ongoing tracker of valuation trends and acquisition activity in the middle market.
“martinwolf is a true specialist advisor, and I’m proud to join such an experienced team of industry experts,” added Rawling. “I look forward to helping our clients achieve their desired deal outcomes as M&A activity in the IT world continues to grow.”
Liam previously served as an Information Technology Analyst at Villanova’s student-managed “Wildcat” investment fund and participated in the Villanova Mergers & Acquisitions Society. He graduated from the Villanova School of Business with a Bachelor’s of Business Administration in Finance.
30, Oct 2026
Bhubaneswar Police Recover 307 Lost Mobile Phones, Return Them to Owners
Bhubaneswar, Oct 30 (UDN): In a major initiative to reunite people with their lost belongings, the Bhubaneswar Urban Police District (UPD) has recovered 307 mobile phones that were reported lost or stolen at different times and returned them to their rightful owners.
Pic Credit: x.com/cpbbsrctc
The recovered mobile phones were formally handed over to their respective owners during a special programme organised at the Police Seva Sadan in Bhubaneswar.
Police Commissioner Dr Suresh Deb Datta Singh, IPS, attended the programme along with other senior police officials and personally witnessed the handover of the recovered devices.
307 Mobile Phones Returned to Owners
The recovery drive marks an important step by Bhubaneswar Police towards addressing complaints related to lost and stolen mobile phones and ensuring the return of recovered devices to their rightful owners.
The phones had reportedly gone missing on different occasions, following which efforts were undertaken by the Bhubaneswar UPD to trace and recover them.
The successful recovery has brought relief to hundreds of people who had lost their mobile phones and were waiting to get them back.
Police Reiterate Commitment to Public Service
Sharing details of the initiative through its official social media account, the Commissionerate Police highlighted its commitment to protecting citizens and their property.
The police department reiterated that public safety, prompt assistance and service to citizens remain among its key priorities.
The initiative also reflects the importance of police-public cooperation in tracing missing belongings and addressing everyday grievances.
Commissionerate Police Emphasises People-First Approach
The return of 307 recovered mobile phones is being seen as a significant public-service initiative by the Bhubaneswar Police.
Through such recovery drives, the Commissionerate Police aims to strengthen public confidence and demonstrate its commitment to ensuring that citizens receive assistance in recovering their lost property.
The department has reaffirmed its resolve to continue working towards the safety and security of people across the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Commissionerate area.
30, Oct 2026
Odisha Weather Alert: Fresh Depression Likely Over Bay of Bengal by October 31, Rainfall Expected From November 1
Bhubaneswar, Oct 30 (UDN): Odisha may face another spell of rainfall as a fresh weather system over the Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify into a depression by October 31, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
Representational Image
The impending weather development comes at a time when several parts of Odisha are still recovering from the impact of Cyclone Arnab, with flooding, waterlogging and disruptions continuing in affected districts.
The IMD has indicated that the developing system could intensify further over the following two days and move towards the Andhra Pradesh coast. Its influence is likely to trigger fresh rainfall in Odisha from November 1.
Low-Pressure System Developing Over South Andaman Sea
According to the meteorological department, a low-pressure area has formed over the South Andaman Sea and is expected to move gradually west-northwestwards.
The system is likely to concentrate into a depression over the southeast Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas by October 31.
IMD Director General Dr Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said the weather system could gain further strength after developing into a depression before moving towards the Andhra Pradesh coast over the subsequent two days.
The projected movement and intensification of the system are being closely monitored by meteorologists.
Odisha May Witness Another Spell of Rain
The approaching system could influence weather conditions across Odisha from November 1, bringing the possibility of fresh rainfall to parts of the state.
The development has raised concerns as several districts are already dealing with the aftermath of heavy rainfall associated with Cyclone Arnab.
Additional precipitation could create further challenges in areas experiencing waterlogging and flooding, particularly where rivers and reservoirs are still responding to the earlier spell of heavy rain.
However, the precise distribution and intensity of rainfall will depend on the system’s subsequent movement and development.
IMD Keeps Close Watch on Developing System
The weather department is monitoring the low-pressure system’s trajectory, intensity and potential impact on the eastern coast.
Further updates regarding rainfall distribution, possible intensification and the likely impact on Odisha are expected as the system develops.
With another weather system approaching the Bay of Bengal, residents, particularly those in previously flood-affected areas, are advised to remain attentive to official IMD forecasts and advisories.
The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the developing depression brings another significant spell of rain to Odisha.
30, Oct 2026
India’s GDP Growth Pegged at 7.35 pc in Q2 FY27, Finance Ministry Sees Strong Economic Momentum
New Delhi, Oct 30: India’s economy is estimated to have expanded by 7.35 per cent during the July-September quarter of the current financial year (FY27), driven by robust domestic demand, rising consumption and improved industrial performance, according to the Finance Ministry’s latest Monthly Economic Review.
Representational Image
The estimate, generated through the ministry’s nowcasting model, indicates that the Indian economy has maintained a strong growth trajectory, although the projected expansion is slightly lower than the 7.8 per cent growth recorded in the April-June quarter.
The October review noted that several high-frequency economic indicators showed encouraging performance during the second quarter, pointing towards sustained economic activity across major sectors.
GST Collections, Automobile Sales Boost Growth Outlook
The Finance Ministry highlighted improved performance in key economic indicators, including industrial production, electricity consumption, port activity, Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections and automobile sales.
Gross GST collections registered growth of approximately 15 per cent during the July-September quarter, significantly higher than the 8.4 per cent increase recorded in the previous quarter.
The automobile sector also witnessed strong momentum, with domestic vehicle sales rising by around 25 per cent year-on-year. The increase was supported by healthy demand across both rural and urban markets.
According to the review, these indicators reflect the resilience of domestic economic activity and the continued strength of consumption demand.
Manufacturing and Services Activity Improve
The report also pointed to a recovery in business activity towards the end of the September quarter, with manufacturing and services sectors showing signs of improvement.
The Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) readings strengthened in September, indicating improved business conditions and a more favourable operating environment.
The Finance Ministry observed that the recovery in PMI indicators, alongside improving business sentiment, offered a cautiously positive outlook for the coming months.
Domestic Demand to Support Growth in FY27
Looking ahead, the ministry expects domestic consumption, investment activity and ongoing structural reforms to remain important drivers of India’s economic expansion during the remainder of FY27.
Healthy credit growth and recently concluded trade agreements are also expected to provide additional support to consumption, investment and export activities.
The review suggested that sustained demand and improving business conditions could help maintain the economy’s growth momentum in the coming quarters.
Global Risks Remain a Concern
Despite the positive domestic outlook, the Finance Ministry cautioned that external economic uncertainties could create challenges for India’s growth prospects.
Rising crude oil prices, geopolitical tensions and persistent inflationary pressures remain key risks that could affect economic stability and business confidence.
The ministry noted that these global developments will require close monitoring even as domestic economic fundamentals continue to provide support.
30, Oct 2026
Odisha Signs Four International MoUs in Singapore to Boost Clean Energy Research and Innovation
Bhubaneswar, Oct 29 (UDN): Odisha has stepped up its efforts to strengthen the clean energy sector through international collaboration, with the State Energy Department signing four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with global technology companies and research partners in Singapore.
Pic Credit: x.com/EnergyOdisha
The agreements were signed during the Asia Clean Energy Summit (ACES), organised as part of Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW) 2026, held from October 27 to 29.
The partnerships aim to promote research, innovation and technological development in key areas, including artificial intelligence (AI), digitalisation, battery energy storage systems, smart grids, microgrids and green hydrogen.
Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore, will serve as the knowledge partner for the collaborations, providing research support and technical expertise to advance Odisha’s clean energy ambitions.
Four Agreements Target Emerging Energy Technologies
The four MoUs cover different aspects of clean energy research and technological advancement.
Under the agreement with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Singapore, the focus will be on joint research into digitalisation and AI-powered workbench solutions. These technologies are expected to support smart governance and improve consumer services in the energy sector.
The partnership with Singapore-based VFlowTech will focus on advanced flow battery technologies, with the objective of strengthening energy storage capabilities and improving grid resilience.
Similarly, the MoU with PHENOGY, Singapore, will facilitate research and development of sodium-ion battery-based Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) for grid applications.
The fourth agreement, signed with Finland-based DANFOSS Drives Oy, will focus on next-generation microgrids, smart grid integration and green hydrogen production.
Deputy CM Highlights Importance of Global Collaboration
Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo welcomed the Energy Department’s initiative, describing international partnerships as an important step towards building a sustainable and technologically advanced energy ecosystem in Odisha.
He said the State is committed to developing a future-ready energy sector through innovation, research and cooperation with leading global institutions and companies.
According to the Deputy Chief Minister, the agreements will create opportunities to explore advanced technologies in energy storage, artificial intelligence, smart grids and green hydrogen.
He further emphasised that such collaborations could strengthen Odisha’s renewable energy ambitions, improve energy security and position the State as an emerging destination for clean energy investment and innovation.
Odisha Focuses on Future-Ready Energy Infrastructure
The latest agreements reflect Odisha’s growing emphasis on research-driven development and the adoption of emerging clean energy technologies.
With renewable energy integration becoming increasingly important, technologies such as advanced batteries, smart grids and microgrids are expected to play a significant role in ensuring reliable and efficient electricity supply.
The collaboration with international technology companies and NTU is expected to provide a platform for knowledge exchange, research partnerships and the exploration of innovative energy solutions.
Through these initiatives, Odisha aims to strengthen its clean energy ecosystem while supporting the broader transition towards a sustainable, resilient and low-carbon energy future.
30, Oct 2026
OPSC Mains Exam: Aspirants Seek 15-Day Postponement Amid Flood Disruptions Across Odisha
Bhubaneswar, Oct 30: With flood-related disruptions continuing in several parts of Odisha following the recent cyclone, candidates appearing for the Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) Mains examination have urged the authorities to defer the examination by at least 15 days.
Representational Image
The examination is scheduled to commence on October 31, but aspirants from several districts, particularly southern Odisha, have raised concerns over transportation difficulties, disrupted connectivity and waterlogging in their respective areas.
Candidates have appealed to both the state government and the OPSC to reconsider the examination schedule, arguing that the prevailing situation could prevent many aspirants from reaching their designated examination centres on time.
Cyclone Disruptions Add to Candidates’ Concerns
The OPSC Mains examination was originally scheduled to begin on October 29. However, in view of the approaching cyclone, the commission rescheduled the examination to October 31.
Although the cyclonic system has moved away, its aftermath continues to affect normal life in several parts of the state. Waterlogging, damaged roads and flood-like conditions have created fresh challenges for candidates preparing to travel to examination centres.
Aspirants from southern Odisha have expressed particular concern, saying that transportation services remain disrupted in some areas. Train services have reportedly been affected on certain routes, while irregular bus operations have added to the difficulties faced by candidates.
Aspirants Seek Fair Opportunity
Apart from travel-related challenges, several candidates have pointed out that the adverse weather conditions and flooding have also affected their examination preparations.
Disruptions at home, difficulties in accessing study materials and uncertainty over transportation have added to the stress of candidates who have been preparing for the competitive examination.
Aspirants believe that conducting the examination under the prevailing circumstances could put candidates from cyclone- and flood-affected regions at a disadvantage compared to those from relatively unaffected areas.
They have, therefore, requested the commission to grant an additional 15 days before conducting the Mains examination so that all candidates get a fair and equal opportunity to appear.
Decision Awaited From OPSC
With the examination date approaching, candidates are awaiting an official response from the commission regarding their demand.
The aspirants have maintained that their appeal is not for an indefinite postponement but for a reasonable extension to allow transportation services and normal connectivity to improve across affected districts.
Whether the OPSC will reconsider the October 31 schedule remains to be seen. For now, uncertainty continues among candidates, particularly those travelling from flood-affected parts of Odisha.
