Author: Neel Achary

CYPHER Agent Brings On-the-Job Answers, Coaching and Practice Into Frontline Work

Workers can ask questions, rehearse customer conversations and get step-by-step guidance from approved company knowledge.

DALLAS, Oct. 27, 2026 — CYPHER Learning, the AI-native platform that puts company knowledge to work, today announced the next generation of CYPHER Agent will go where the learning management system never could: into the work itself. Using company knowledge, CYPHER Agent will answer on-the-job questions, coach people through live situations, build personalized training, help them practice, and assess who is ready to perform.

For more than two decades, the LMS has worked the same way: experts write courses, people take them, and learning and development (L&D) reports completions. That model breaks down at the moments knowledge matters most — when a server learns a guest has a food allergy, a technician opens an unfamiliar repair, or an insurance agent fields a question about a new state rule. No one has time to search a course catalog or handbook. CYPHER Agent will put the answer, the coaching and the practice into a conversation anyone can start, whenever they need it, in their own language.

“The traditional LMS, built only to deliver and manage courses, is now outdated technology,” said John Mazur, CEO of CYPHER Learning. “Work doesn’t happen in courses. A server in the middle of a dinner rush or a contractor on a job site needs the right next step now, a chance to practice before it counts, and a manager who knows whether they’re ready. CYPHER Agent will do all of that from knowledge a company already has. It’s the most significant change in how organizations build capability since training moved online.”

From course catalog to coach

CYPHER Agent will replace menus, catalogs, and search bars with a conversation. Learners, managers, subject matter experts and L&D teams can say or type what they need, and the agent will respond from approved company knowledge.

• Answers people can trust. Organizations upload handbooks, product guides, and compliance rules once. Every answer cites its source, and built-in escalation rules tell workers when to stop and get a manager — for example, when a guest reports an allergy.

• Coaching in the moment of need. Beyond answering questions, CYPHER Agent will guide people through a live situation one step at a time, including by voice, asking what happened and adjusting each instruction to match.

• Practice out loud. Workers can rehearse real conversations, such as calming an upset customer, by speaking with an AI role-play partner. Afterward, the agent will show which steps they covered and which they missed, with references back to the guide.

• Build by asking. Managers and experts can create refreshers, step-by-step skills and full courses by describing what they need. A one-hour course with gamification, assessments, visual media, and translation into more than 50 languages takes 10 to 15 minutes to build, and creators review and edit every section before it is published.

• Readiness, not just completion. Managers can ask “Who on my team is behind?” and see overdue training, stalled learners, and practice activity at a glance, so they know who is ready to perform, not only who finished a course.

From a manager’s request to a server’s next step in minutes

During a recent preview, a major restaurant chain asked CYPHER Agent to create a skill for handling guest complaints, test it, and publish it to every server in under two minutes. Moments later, a server asked what to do about an overcooked steak. The agent walked her through each step, from thanking the guest to alerting the kitchen to checking back that the replacement was right.

One source of knowledge, tailored to every role

The same approach works anywhere knowledge has to reach many people, in many roles, fast. A restaurant franchise rolling out new menu items can give managers, chefs, and servers guidance specific to each role. An auto dealership can quickly prepare its technicians for a new recall repair. An insurer can bring agents in different states up to date on new compliance requirements. Because CYPHER Agent works from a single, governed source of knowledge, every role, region and contractor network will get tailored guidance while L&D keeps control of what is published.

Preview CYPHER Agent at DevLearn

CYPHER Learning will preview the new CYPHER Agent at DevLearn 2026, Nov. 4–6 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, at Booth #362, with general availability slated for Q1 2027. On Wednesday, Nov. 4 at 9:15 a.m. PT, Gwen O’Neil, director of U-Haul University, and Mark Schuster, product lead at CYPHER Learning, will take the DevLearn Expo Stage to discuss how U-Haul is modernizing its approach to learning and where AI can support an established learning ecosystem today.

To learn more, visit www.cypherlearning.com.

Cyclone Arnab: Bhubaneswar Airport Keeps Flights Operating, Director Assures Full Preparedness

Bhubaneswar, Oct 27: Flight operations at Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) in Bhubaneswar continued normally on Tuesday, with no cancellations reported as Cyclone Arnab approached the Odisha coast. Airport authorities have completed precautionary preparations and are closely monitoring weather conditions to ensure passenger safety.

 Representational Image 

BPIA Director Prasanna Pradhan said the airport was operating as usual, as the prevailing weather forecast did not indicate conditions severe enough to warrant a shutdown. However, he clarified that officials remain on alert and any operational decisions would depend on changes in the weather and prevailing safety requirements.

Airport Completes Pre-Cyclone Preparations

According to Pradhan, the airport has implemented its prescribed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), technical instructions and operational guidelines to prepare for the potential impact of the cyclone.

A coordination meeting with relevant stakeholders was also held to review preparedness and ensure that necessary arrangements were in place to respond to changing weather conditions.

“We have completed our pre-cyclonic preparedness measures. Based on the forecast from the Meteorological Department, Bhubaneswar is not impacted severely enough to warrant a shutdown of flight operations. However, we are fully alert for any situation. If required, we will make a decision at that time,” Pradhan said.

Flight Safety Remains the Priority

The airport director said flight operations would continue as long as weather conditions remained suitable for safe flying. In the event of rain or other weather-related challenges, decisions would be taken by pilots and relevant authorities in accordance with established safety procedures.

Airport officials are also prepared to manage possible flight delays or diversions if conditions deteriorate. The arrangements are intended to maintain operational safety while minimising inconvenience to passengers.

Cyclone Arnab has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm and is moving at a reported speed of around 20 kmph. Rain and strong winds have been reported in parts of Odisha, while further deterioration in weather conditions was expected on Tuesday night, according to the report.

Passengers Urged to Check Flight Status

With weather conditions potentially changing at short notice, Pradhan has advised air travellers to remain calm and verify their flight status before leaving for the airport.

“Please do not panic. Just check your flight status before leaving home. That is my advice. Please check your flight status before coming to the airport,” he said.

Passengers are advised to check updates directly with their respective airlines and allow sufficient time for their journeys. Although flight services were operating normally at the time of the statement, schedules could be affected if weather conditions worsen.

Airport authorities will continue to assess the situation and take necessary measures in line with official weather forecasts and aviation safety requirements as Cyclone Arnab approaches the Odisha coast.

From Amazon to the ICC: Odisha’s Kajal Pradhan Turns Her Makeup Passion into a Global Opportunity

Berhampur, Oct 27: In a story of courage, determination and following one’s passion, Kajal Pradhan from Berhampur in Odisha has carved out a place for herself in the beauty industry after leaving her job at Amazon. Today, she is reported to be working as the official makeup artist for ICC men’s and women’s cricket events, marking a significant milestone in her professional journey.

Pradhan’s journey from the technology sector to the world of makeup artistry highlights how pursuing a passion can open doors to unexpected opportunities, even when the decision involves leaving behind a stable career.

From a Corporate Career to Makeup Artistry

Kajal previously worked at Amazon, but her growing interest in makeup and beauty eventually prompted her to take a different professional path. Leaving behind the security of a corporate job, she stepped into the competitive world of makeup artistry to pursue what she truly loved.

She began her journey as a freelance makeup artist in Pune before gradually building her professional network and establishing herself in Mumbai, a major centre for India’s entertainment and beauty industries.

Over time, she reportedly gained opportunities to work with celebrities and professionals from the film and television industries, helping her strengthen her portfolio and expand her presence in the field.

Overcoming Criticism and Challenges

The transition was not without difficulties. According to a social media post by X user Satya Nayak, Pradhan faced criticism and discouragement from people who questioned her decision to leave a stable technology job for a career in makeup.

However, she continued to work towards her goal, demonstrating persistence in an industry where building credibility, gaining clients and establishing professional connections can take considerable time.

Her reported association with International Cricket Council (ICC) men’s and women’s cricket events represents another important step in her career, taking her work beyond the conventional beauty and entertainment sectors.

Ambitions Beyond India

Pradhan is also reportedly looking to expand her professional horizons internationally, with aspirations to explore opportunities in Western markets. She is interested in using technology to develop her work and create more engaging experiences.

Despite her growing professional profile, she has maintained a connection with her home state, Odisha. According to Nayak’s post, she remains willing to support promotional initiatives related to the state and offer guidance to young women seeking advice on pursuing careers in makeup artistry.

An Inspiration for Aspiring Women

Kajal Pradhan’s journey offers an encouraging message for those who wish to pursue a career outside their conventional professional background. Her experience illustrates the importance of developing skills, gaining practical experience and staying committed to a chosen field despite criticism and uncertainty.

For aspiring makeup artists, particularly young women from smaller cities, her reported achievements demonstrate how talent, perseverance and professional growth can create opportunities in competitive industries.

Note: This story is based on the information provided in the original report, including claims attributed to a social media post by Satya Nayak. The details of Pradhan’s professional association with ICC events and other claims have not been independently verified.

Kajal Pradhan, my senior from engineering college, An Odia girl from Brahmapur. After working few years at Amazon, she left the tech job because her heart and passion was in makeup industry. People around her said she was wasting a good career, talked against her openly, humiliated her many times before her big success. A girl from a small town shouldn’t leave a stable job for something like this. She heard it all and still started freelancing in Pune. Slowly she built her name in Mumbai. Worked with celebrities, film and TV people. Then came the big one , she became the official makeup artist for ICC men’s and women’s cricket events. From Brahmapur to those stages, standing with cricketers and stars. This is beyond a typical success. She was a lone girl holding a clear vision and a solid approach in a crowded industry full of big established names. She worked day and night, quietly, with no shortcuts, and still rose to shine on the biggest stages. With her pure talent, solid energy and determination from Odisha to international fame, she did it her way. Last week when we spoke, I could see how deeply passionate she is about this industry. She doesn’t just want to stay where she is. She is already looking beyond India targeting international forums and even the Western ecosystem. She wants to scale her passion properly, use technology, and make the whole thing more engaging and meaningful. Even after all that, she never says no when Odisha needs her. Any promotion, any young girl asking for guidance, she helps without thinking twice. Kajal didi, so proud of you. Keep going higher. Odisha needs more like you. Image copyright and credit- Kajal Pradhan ( her Instagram page muakajalpradhan)

— Nayak Satya (@NayakSatya_SG) October 26, 2026

Cyclone Arnab: South Coast Railway Cancels 8 Trains, Short-Terminations Announced for 2 More; Check Full Schedule

Koraput, Oct 27: In view of Cyclone Arnab over the Bay of Bengal, the South Coast Railway (SCoR) has announced the cancellation of eight trains and changes to the originating and terminating stations of two others, affecting services connecting Visakhapatnam, Koraput, Kirandul, Bhubaneswar and Jagdalpur.

 Representational Image 

According to an official bulletin issued by the South Coast Railway headquarters in Visakhapatnam, the decision has been taken as a precautionary measure amid the prevailing cyclonic conditions. Passengers travelling along the affected routes have been advised to check the latest train updates before commencing their journeys.

List of Cancelled Trains

The following train services will remain cancelled on the specified dates:

Visakhapatnam–Kirandul Night Express (18515): Cancelled from October 29 to November 4.

Kirandul–Visakhapatnam Night Express (18516): Cancelled from October 29 to November 4.

Visakhapatnam–Koraput Passenger (58538): Cancelled from October 27 to October 30.

Koraput–Visakhapatnam Passenger (58537): Cancelled from October 28 to October 31.

Visakhapatnam–Koraput Intercity Express (18512): Cancelled on October 30.

Koraput–Visakhapatnam Intercity Express (18511): Cancelled on October 31.

Visakhapatnam–Kirandul Passenger (58501): Cancelled from October 27 to October 30.

Kirandul–Visakhapatnam Passenger (58502): Cancelled from October 27 to October 30.

Two More Trains to Be Short-Terminated or Short-Originated

Apart from the cancellations, railway authorities have announced operational changes to two services connecting Bhubaneswar and Jagdalpur.

Train No. 18447, Bhubaneswar–Jagdalpur Express: The train will terminate at Rayagada instead of completing its journey to Jagdalpur from October 27 to October 30.

Train No. 18448, Jagdalpur–Bhubaneswar Express: The train will originate from Rayagada instead of Jagdalpur from October 28 to October 31.

These changes mean that passengers travelling to or from stations beyond Rayagada may need to make alternative arrangements during the affected period.

Passengers Advised to Check Train Status

With cyclone-related disruptions expected to affect railway operations, passengers are advised to verify their train schedules, cancellation status and boarding or termination stations through official railway channels before travelling.

Travellers should also check for further advisories from South Coast Railway, as additional operational changes may be announced depending on weather conditions.

Odisha on High Alert as Cyclone Ornab Intensifies; Heavy Rain Forecast for Three Days

Bhubaneswar, Oct 27: Odisha has stepped up its disaster preparedness as Cyclone Ornab intensifies over the sea, with heavy to extremely heavy rainfall and strong winds forecast across several districts between October 27 and 29.

 Representational Image 

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the very severe cyclonic storm is expected to make landfall near Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh on October 28. The system is forecast to bring sustained winds of 115–125 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 140 kmph.

Although Odisha is not expected to experience a direct landfall, southern parts of the state could face adverse weather, including intense rainfall, strong winds and possible disruptions to normal life.

Red Alert Issued for Five Districts

The IMD has issued a Red Alert for Rayagada, Malkangiri, Ganjam, Gajapati and Koraput for October 28, warning of extremely heavy rainfall and strong winds.

On October 27, heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely in Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, Gajapati, Ganjam and Puri. Rain is expected to continue in several parts of the state on October 29, with western and interior districts, including Sundargarh, Jharsuguda and Bargarh, likely to receive significant rainfall.

Authorities have urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert and follow official weather advisories as the cyclone approaches the coast.

Disaster Response Teams Deployed

The Odisha government has mobilised emergency response personnel to strengthen preparedness in areas likely to be affected. According to the information released, 60 Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) teams, nine National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams and 225 fire service teams have been deployed.

The Army, Navy, Air Force and Indian Coast Guard have also been placed on standby to assist with rescue, evacuation and relief operations if required.

As a precautionary measure, schools, colleges and Anganwadi centres in Rayagada, Nabarangpur, Malkangiri, Gajapati and Koraput will remain closed until October 29. Educational institutions in Ganjam district will remain closed until October 30.

Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari has appealed to the public not to panic, assuring residents that the state government is prepared to respond to the situation.

Southern Odisha Faces Strong Winds

Meteorologist Dr Sarat Chandra Sahu has warned that parts of southern Odisha could experience wind speeds of 80–110 kmph between late Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, accompanied by heavy to extremely heavy rainfall.

The forecast has prompted heightened vigilance, particularly in districts vulnerable to flooding, waterlogging, damage to infrastructure and disruptions to transport and electricity services.

Residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather, stay away from vulnerable structures and trees, and follow instructions issued by local authorities.

With the cyclone’s movement and intensity remaining key factors in determining its impact, the state administration is continuing preparations to minimise risks and ensure the safety of people in vulnerable areas.

Guwahati Hotel Shootout: Property Dispute Suspected in Killing of Five, Accused Arrested

Guwahati, Oct 27: A suspected property dispute is believed to have triggered a deadly shooting at a hotel in Guwahati, leaving five people dead, including four members of the same family, and another person injured on Monday night.

The incident took place at Hotel Bilas Inn in the busy Bora Service area of the city at around 9 pm. Police arrested the accused, identified as Ghanakanta Gogoi, within an hour of the shooting, according to Guwahati Police Commissioner Dr Partha Sarathi Mahanta.

Police have recovered a licensed .32-bore pistol allegedly used in the attack. Investigators are now examining the circumstances surrounding the incident and the events that led to the fatal confrontation.

Five Killed, One Injured

The deceased have been identified as hotel owner Helena Bharali, her brother Bhudev Bharali, her son Devarshi Kashyap, her daughter-in-law Riniki Kashyap and their driver, Narayan Das.

Four of the victims belonged to the same family, while Das was reportedly from their village.

The injured survivor, identified as Satyen Pathak, worked as the hotel caretaker. He sustained gunshot injuries and was admitted to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, where doctors said his condition was stable.

According to the police commissioner, six people were shot during the incident. Five subsequently died, while Pathak survived with injuries.

Lease Dispute Under Investigation

Preliminary police findings suggest that a dispute over the lease agreement for Hotel Bilas Inn may have been the motive behind the shooting. The accused had reportedly taken the property on lease around a year ago.

However, investigators have yet to establish the precise sequence of events or confirm the circumstances that led to the alleged firing.

Police are questioning Gogoi to determine the nature of the dispute, the events preceding the shooting and whether any other factors contributed to the violence.

Commissioner Mahanta said a thorough and scientific investigation was underway to establish the facts. The bodies of the deceased are being sent for post-mortem examinations as part of the investigative process.

Assam Congress Questions Law and Order

The shooting has also prompted a political reaction, with the Assam Congress expressing concern over public safety and the law-and-order situation in Guwahati.

In a post on X, the party conveyed condolences to the bereaved families and urged the state government to take immediate action and ensure accountability.

The incident has raised fresh concerns about urban security, while police continue their investigation into one of the city’s deadliest recent shooting incidents.

Further details regarding the suspected motive and the circumstances surrounding the killings are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.