23, Jun 2026
NCW Seeks Action Taken Report from Odisha DGP Over Rayagada Mob Assault Triggered by Child-Lifting Rumour
Rayagada, June 23 (UDN): The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken strong cognisance of the mob assault on a non-Odia woman in Odisha’s Rayagada district after she was falsely suspected of being involved in child lifting, and has sought an Action Taken Report (ATR) from the Director General of Police (DGP), Odisha.
Acting on its own initiative, the NCW has directed the state police chief to submit a detailed report, including a copy of the FIR, progress of investigation, and action taken against those involved in the assault as well as individuals responsible for spreading the rumour that triggered the violence.
The Commission has also sought information on the victim’s medical treatment, counselling support, and safety arrangements for volunteers and interns associated with NGOs working in the region.
The case has also come under the purview of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), with petitions alleging administrative and police lapses in controlling the rumour and preventing the attack. The petitions have named the Governor, Chief Minister, Chief Secretary, DGP, Rayagada SP, and District Collector as respondents, seeking strict action against the accused, compensation for the victim, and psychological support.
State Women’s Commission Chairperson Shobhana Mohanty termed the incident “shocking and inhumane,” noting that the victim, who has since returned to Delhi, has recorded her statement via video conferencing. She also said efforts are underway to ensure filing of a charge sheet within 60 days and trial in a fast-track court.
Additional Director General of Police (Crime Against Women and Children Wing) S. Saini said the investigation is being treated on a priority basis and will be closely monitored, with plans for a fast-track trial.
Police said the victim was allegedly misled by an individual for directions, who later spread false rumours branding her as a child kidnapper, triggering the mob attack. The alleged mastermind behind the misinformation has been arrested, and investigators are examining multiple video clips to identify other accused. A Test Identification (TI) parade is also being considered.
So far, 25 people have been arrested in connection with the case. While 24 accused have already been produced before court, another arrest was made recently. Several residents of Intaliguda village have reportedly fled the area fearing further arrests.
Rayagada Superintendent of Police Rajprasad visited Intaliguda Chhak in Kalyansinghpur to review the situation, met individuals who rescued the victim, and commended their intervention. Additional police forces have been deployed to maintain law and order and prevent further unrest.
Authorities have urged the public not to circulate rumours, warning of strict action against those spreading misinformation.
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- By Neel Achary
23, Jun 2026
SIPs and Equities Dominate 80 pc of Digital Investors’ Wealth in India
New Delhi, June 23: Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) and equities together account for nearly 80% of the wealth held by digital investors in India, according to a recent report.
The findings highlight a strong preference among retail investors for market-linked instruments, reflecting growing financial awareness and increasing participation in capital markets through digital platforms.
The report notes that SIPs have become a key entry point for long-term wealth creation, particularly among young and first-time investors. Equities, meanwhile, continue to attract significant interest due to their potential for higher returns compared to traditional savings instruments.
Experts attribute this trend to rising financial literacy, easier access to digital investment platforms, and a shift in investor behaviour towards disciplined, long-term investing. The growing adoption of fintech solutions has also made investing more convenient and transparent.
Analysts believe this shift indicates a structural change in India’s investment landscape, with more individuals moving away from traditional savings and toward diversified, market-linked portfolios.
Overall, the report underscores the increasing dominance of SIPs and equities in shaping the wealth-building strategies of India’s digital investor base.
23, Jun 2026
India–Russia Eastern Sea Route Gains Strategic Importance Amid West Asia Crisis
New Delhi, June 23: The India–Russia eastern sea route is gaining increased importance amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia, with shifting global trade patterns prompting renewed focus on alternative shipping corridors.
The development comes as disruptions and uncertainty in key West Asia-linked maritime routes continue to impact global supply chains. In this context, the eastern sea route between India and Russia is emerging as a more stable and strategically viable option for trade and energy movement.
Industry observers note that the route is likely to play a key role in ensuring continuity of shipments, particularly in sectors such as energy, commodities, and industrial goods. The corridor is also being viewed as part of broader efforts by countries to diversify trade routes and reduce reliance on geopolitically sensitive passages.
Experts believe the increased significance of this route reflects a wider global trend of strengthening resilient and alternative supply chains to safeguard against geopolitical risks.
The development underscores the evolving nature of international trade logistics amid ongoing global uncertainties.
23, Jun 2026
itel Disrupts Soundbar Category with the Launch of two brand new 160W and 120W Soundbars equipped with iThumpX BASS technology
June 23: itel, a leading electronics brand known for democratizing technology through its latest mobiles, televisions, and gadgets, has unveiled its all-new itel Soundbars. Combining powerful audio, advanced sound engineering, and feature-rich capabilities with premium design, the new soundbars are built for modern homes where entertainment is a complete experience. Powered by iThumpX BASS – itel’s proprietary BASS technology – the newly launched soundbars are engineered to elevate everyday entertainment into an immersive audio experience. The 160W soundbar boasts a Hi-Q Quad-speaker configuration for cinematic audio performance, while the 120W variant features dual speakers, delivering clear and immersive sound tailored to every listening experience. The speakers are made of special neodymium magnets, offering technical superiority vis a vis competitors and offering exceptional sound quality. Available in retail stores across India, the itel Soundbar 160W and Soundbar 120W are priced at Rs. 6349 and Rs. 4649 respectively.
Commenting on the launch, Mr, Arijeet Talapatra, CEO of itel India, said, “The future of entertainment lies in connected ecosystems. A soundbar is more than just audio – it’s a gateway to a smarter, connected lifestyle. As itel expands its vibrant tech ecosystem, we’re empowering consumers in Tier 3 and beyond with smart and premium experiences more accessible than ever.”
Whether users are streaming movies, playing games, or listening to music, the new range is designed to deliver impactful sound with greater depth and clarity. The itel soundbars integrate advanced audio technologies, including the state of the art DSP chipset for advanced sound separation offering a virtual 360° sound, Hi-Q Quad/Dual Drivers, LED Display, and Advanced Wind Pipe technology. Together, these features create rich and room-filling audio for a more immersive entertainment experience. itel’s new soundbars also come equipped with Bluetooth 5.3 and remote-control functionality for added convenience. Users can personalise their listening experience with three EQ modes designed for different content preferences.
The soundbars support multiple connectivity options for a seamless audio experience. Ports include TV (ARC), Optical, AUX, USB, and SW Out – making it easier to connect televisions and multiple entertainment devices through a single setup. It also can be controlled by TV remotes – adding to ease of use and enhanced convenience. The new soundbars also offer added value through select in-box benefits, including a free wall mount kit and a 12-month warranty – a hallmark of reliability for consumers.
23, Jun 2026
Odisha Updates English Spellings of Key Cities and Towns to Reflect Authentic Odia Pronunciation
Bhubaneswar, June 23 (UDN): The Odisha Government has officially notified revised English spellings for several districts, towns, and administrative blocks across the state in an effort to better align them with their original Odia pronunciation and linguistic roots.
Representational image
Under the updated nomenclature, several prominent place names will now be represented in official English records as follows: Cuttack will be spelt as Kataka, Balasore as Baleshwar, Berhampur as Brahmapur, Khurda as Khordha, and Rourkela as Raurkela.
Officials said the decision has been taken to preserve Odisha’s linguistic heritage and ensure that government records, signage, and official communications more accurately reflect the authentic Odia names of places.
The revised spellings will be implemented across administrative documents, maps, and public communication systems in a phased manner by various government departments.
The move is expected to strengthen cultural identity and promote uniformity in the representation of place names across official platforms.
The government has not commented on public reactions yet, though the decision is likely to generate discussions among residents, historians, and language experts on its cultural and practical implications.
23, Jun 2026
Preventive Health Measures Could Deliver Massive Global Savings: WEF
New Delhi, June 23, 2026: Investing in simple preventive healthcare measures could help the world save nearly USD 6 trillion by 2040, according to a World Economic Forum (WEF) report.
The report highlights that shifting focus from treating diseases to preventing them can significantly reduce long-term healthcare costs while improving overall public health outcomes. It notes that early diagnosis, routine health check-ups, vaccinations, healthier lifestyles, and timely medical interventions can help avoid the progression of serious and costly illnesses.
According to the findings, a large share of global healthcare expenditure is driven by chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory disorders. Many of these conditions can be managed more effectively—or even prevented—through early action and consistent primary healthcare support.
The WEF report further emphasizes that preventive healthcare not only reduces pressure on healthcare systems but also improves workforce productivity and quality of life. Healthier populations are likely to contribute more effectively to economic growth, reducing absenteeism and long-term medical dependency.
Experts suggest that stronger primary healthcare networks, increased public awareness, and greater investment in digital health tools such as telemedicine and early screening technologies will be key to achieving these outcomes.
The report also calls for collaboration between governments, private sector players, and healthcare providers to build systems that prioritize prevention alongside treatment.
Overall, the findings underline a clear message: investing in preventive healthcare today could lead to substantial economic savings and healthier societies in the decades ahead.
23, Jun 2026
Gold and Silver Prices Decline Up to 3 pc Amid US Fed Rate Hike Concerns
New Delhi, June 23: Gold and silver prices fell by up to 3% amid growing concerns over a possible interest rate hike by the US Federal Reserve, which has weighed on investor sentiment in global bullion markets.
The decline reflects increased caution among investors, as expectations of higher interest rates tend to strengthen the US dollar and reduce the appeal of non-yielding assets such as gold and silver.
Market analysts said precious metals came under pressure as traders reassessed their positions in response to evolving monetary policy signals from the US central bank. A stronger dollar and higher bond yields typically reduce demand for safe-haven assets like bullion.
Despite the short-term decline, experts noted that gold and silver continue to remain important hedging instruments amid ongoing global economic uncertainties, including inflation risks and geopolitical tensions.
Traders are closely watching upcoming US economic data and Federal Reserve commentary for further cues on the interest rate trajectory, which is expected to influence bullion prices in the near term.
Overall, the precious metals market remained under pressure as global investors adjusted expectations around US monetary policy.
23, Jun 2026
Odisha Vigilance Raids Seven Locations Linked to Sambalpur CADA Executive Engineer in DA Case
Bhubaneswar, June 23 (UDN): Odisha Vigilance on Tuesday launched simultaneous searches at seven locations associated with Padmalochan Nayak, Executive Engineer of the Command Area Development Authority (CADA), Sambalpur Division, over allegations of possessing assets disproportionate to his known sources of income.
Acting on allegations of amassing disproportionate assets, Vigilance officials conducted the raids on the strength of search warrants issued by the Special Vigilance Judge, Sambalpur.
The search operation is being carried out by a team comprising four Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs), 13 Inspectors, seven Assistant Sub-Inspectors (ASIs), and other supporting staff.
The simultaneous raids are underway at Nayak’s rented residence at Dhanupali in Sambalpur, his triple-storeyed residential building at Bidyadharpur in Cuttack, and a double-storeyed house at Mukhalis under Basta police limits in Balasore district.
In addition, Vigilance officials are also conducting searches at Nayak’s office chamber in Dhanupali, two premises linked to his associates in Cuttack city, and another property associated with one of his associates at Kalimela in Malkangiri district.
During the searches, officials are verifying documents related to movable and immovable assets, bank deposits, investments and other financial transactions to ascertain whether the assets are disproportionate to Nayak’s known sources of income.
Further details regarding the assets unearthed during the raids are awaited as the searches are still in progress.
23, Jun 2026
Fatal Fire Breaks Out at Pharma City Chemical Plant Near Vizag
Visakhapatnam, June 23: Two people were killed after a fire broke out at a chemical factory located in Pharma City near Visakhapatnam, officials said on Monday.
The incident occurred at a manufacturing unit within the industrial zone, leading to an emergency response by fire services and other rescue teams. Efforts were made to bring the blaze under control and prevent it from spreading to nearby facilities.
Authorities confirmed that two fatalities were reported in the incident, while further details regarding injuries or the exact cause of the fire are yet to be officially released. An investigation has been initiated to determine the circumstances that led to the accident.
Emergency teams were deployed immediately, and safety measures were intensified in surrounding industrial units as a precautionary step.
Officials said a detailed probe will be conducted to assess compliance with safety norms and prevent such incidents in the future.
The situation is now under control, and further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
23, Jun 2026
Northern Railways, Indus Towers Boost Women’s Hygiene Access
New Delhi, June 23: Northern Railways, in collaboration with Indus Towers, has strengthened access to women’s hygiene facilities across 175 railway stations, marking a significant step towards improving sanitation and passenger comfort.
The initiative focuses on enhancing hygiene infrastructure for women travellers by improving availability and accessibility of clean and safe sanitation facilities at key railway stations. The project aims to ensure better hygiene standards, especially for women passengers during long-distance and daily travel.
Officials said the collaboration reflects a broader commitment to improving passenger amenities and promoting inclusive infrastructure across the railway network. By prioritising women’s hygiene needs, the initiative seeks to create a safer and more comfortable travel experience for female passengers.
The partnership between Northern Railways and Indus Towers is part of ongoing efforts to modernise railway infrastructure and align it with improved public health and hygiene standards. It also supports the larger goal of making railway stations more inclusive and passenger-friendly.
Authorities added that continued focus on sanitation and passenger welfare will remain a key priority in upcoming infrastructure upgrades across the railway system.
The development underscores the growing emphasis on collaborative public-private efforts to enhance essential services and improve travel experiences across India’s railway network.
