12, Oct 2026
Vegetable Prices Surge Across Odisha, Household Budgets Come Under Pressure
Bhubaneswar, Oct 12 (UDN): A sharp rise in vegetable prices across Odisha has left consumers struggling to manage their daily household expenses, with several commonly used vegetables selling for Rs 60 to Rs 80 per kg in retail markets. The price hike has placed an additional burden on middle-class families already grappling with rising kitchen expenses.
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Brinjal, okra, pointed gourd and bitter gourd are among the vegetables commanding higher prices in markets across the state. Consumers say the sudden increase over the past few days has made even routine vegetable shopping increasingly expensive.
Prices Remain High in Cuttack Markets
At Chhatra Bazaar, one of Cuttack’s major vegetable markets, onions are selling at Rs 60 per kg, while pointed gourd is priced at Rs 80 per kg. Brinjal costs Rs 60 per kg, whereas tomatoes are available at Rs 40 per kg.
Bitter gourd, spine gourd, yardlong beans and okra are also selling at around Rs 60 per kg, adding to the financial strain on consumers.
Bhubaneswar Consumers Face Similar Rates
A similar trend has been reported at Unit-1 Haat in Bhubaneswar. Onions are selling at Rs 60 per kg, while pointed gourd and brinjal are priced at Rs 50 per kg. Tomatoes are available at Rs 40 per kg.
Bitter gourd and okra are commanding prices ranging from Rs 60 to Rs 80 per kg. Spine gourd is selling at Rs 60 per kg, while ridge gourd costs Rs 50 per kg.
With several essential vegetables becoming more expensive, consumers say they are being forced to cut back on purchases or adjust their daily menus to stay within their budgets.
Rainfall, Supply Disruptions Blamed for Price Hike
Prolonged rainfall over the past few days has been cited as one of the reasons behind the price surge. The adverse weather conditions are reportedly affecting crops and disrupting the supply of vegetables to markets across Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and other coastal areas of Odisha.
Odisha’s dependence on supplies from other states during certain periods also contributes to price fluctuations, according to Sudhakar Panda, general secretary of the State Business Association.
“Vegetable prices tend to remain high during this season as we depend heavily on supplies from other states. This increases prices. While wholesalers sell vegetables at lower prices, some vendors double the rates, putting consumers under financial pressure,” Panda said.
His remarks point to concerns over the gap between wholesale and retail prices, with consumers bearing the brunt of rising costs at the marketplace.
Middle-Class Families Feel the Pinch
The price rise has become a concern for households trying to balance food expenses with other essential needs. Consumers say their incomes have not increased in line with the rising cost of everyday commodities, making it increasingly difficult to manage monthly budgets.
“The rise in prices of essential commodities, including vegetables, has affected the budget of the middle-income group. While our income has not increased, the prices of kitchen essentials have risen significantly,” a consumer said.
As vegetable prices remain elevated, consumers are hoping for improved supplies and a moderation in retail rates in the coming days. Until then, households across Odisha may continue to feel the pressure of increasingly expensive everyday essentials.
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- By Neel Achary
12, Oct 2026
Rayagada Division Landslide Disrupts Rail Services in Odisha; Several Trains Cancelled Till October 21
Koraput, Oct. 12 (UDN): Train services in Odisha’s Rayagada railway division have been disrupted following a landslide between MVG and CTS stations, prompting the East Coast Railway (ECoR) to cancel several trains and modify the routes of others.
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According to a railway bulletin, the changes will affect multiple express and passenger services connecting Visakhapatnam, Kirandul, Jagdalpur, Rourkela, Howrah and Bhubaneswar. Passengers travelling on the affected routes have been advised to check the latest service updates before leaving for their journey.
Four Express Trains Cancelled
The following trains have been cancelled for the specified dates:
18515 Visakhapatnam–Kirandul Express: October 13 to 20.
18516 Kirandul–Visakhapatnam Express: October 13 to 20.
18107 Rourkela–Jagdalpur Express: October 13 to 20.
18108 Jagdalpur–Rourkela Express: October 14 to 21.
Other Trains to Run on Restricted Routes
Several other services will operate with changes to their originating or terminating stations.
18005 Howrah–Jagdalpur Express: Will terminate at Koraput from October 13 to 20.
18006 Jagdalpur–Howrah Express: Will originate from Koraput from October 15 to 22.
18447 Bhubaneswar–Jagdalpur Express: Will terminate at Koraput from October 13 to 20.
18448 Jagdalpur–Bhubaneswar Express: Will originate from Koraput from October 14 to 21.
58501 Visakhapatnam–Kirandul Passenger: Will terminate at Koraput from October 13 to 20, subject to a separate October 13 adjustment.
58502 Kirandul–Visakhapatnam Passenger: Will originate from Koraput from October 13 to 20, subject to a separate October 13 adjustment.
The affected services will not operate between Koraput and Jagdalpur during the respective periods.
Additional Traffic Block on KK Line
Separately, railway authorities have given in-principle approval for an eight-hour traffic block at DPC Yard on the KK line in the Rayagada division on October 13. The block is linked to the proposed launch of a Limited Height Subway (LHS).
Due to this arrangement, Train Nos. 58501 and 58502, scheduled to operate on October 13, will instead terminate and originate at Araku, respectively, rather than Koraput, as previously notified.
Passengers Advised to Check Updates
Railway authorities have urged passengers to verify train schedules and operational changes before travelling. Updates will be available through station notice boards, public announcement systems, media reports, bulk SMS alerts and official railway websites and apps.
Passengers using the Koraput–Jagdalpur route should pay particular attention to the revised arrangements to avoid inconvenience during the disruption.
12, Oct 2026
2026 Nobel Prize in Economics Awarded to Robert E. Hall and Michael Woodford for Macroeconomic Research
Stockholm, Oct. 12: American economists Robert E. Hall and Michael Woodford have been awarded the 2026 Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel for their contributions to the development of macroeconomic models that help policymakers understand economic fluctuations and respond to periods of growth and recession.
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The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences announced the award on Monday, recognising the economists’ work in strengthening the theoretical foundations of fiscal and monetary policy. Their research has helped explain how government decisions and central bank policies can influence economic activity through the expectations and decisions of households and businesses.
Research Strengthened Economic Policy Frameworks
According to the Nobel Committee, Hall, a professor at Stanford University, and Woodford, a professor at Columbia University, advanced macroeconomic analysis by grounding economic models in the decision-making behaviour of individuals and firms.
Their work gained significance amid criticism of conventional Keynesian models following the oil shocks of the 1970s. Several advanced economies at the time faced high inflation, sluggish growth and rising unemployment, presenting major challenges for policymakers.
The economists’ research emphasised that consumers and businesses make decisions based not only on current conditions but also on their expectations about the future. Choices involving consumption, savings, investment and pricing can collectively shape the broader economy.
By incorporating these forward-looking expectations into macroeconomic models, their work helped improve the understanding of how policy announcements and interventions affect economic behaviour.
Implications for Central Banks and Governments
The academy noted that the theoretical insights developed by the laureates have contributed to the models used by central banks and governments to assess economic conditions and formulate policy responses.
Such frameworks can help policymakers evaluate the effects of economic shocks, including energy crises and sudden changes in household spending, while designing measures to support stability.
John Hassler, chair of the Committee for the Prize in Economic Sciences, said the laureates’ work had provided a sound theoretical basis for models now used by central banks and governments worldwide.
About the Laureates
Robert E. Hall was born in 1943 in Palo Alto, California. He earned his PhD from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 1967 and is a professor at Stanford University.
Michael Woodford was born in 1955 in Chicopee, Massachusetts. He received his PhD from MIT in 1983 and is a professor at Columbia University in New York.
The 2026 economics prize carries an award of 12 million Swedish kronor, to be shared equally between the two recipients.
The Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences was established in memory of Alfred Nobel and is administered by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences.
12, Oct 2026
BMC Destroys 60 Kg of Stale Food in Bhubaneswar Eateries During Festive Season Raids
Bhubaneswar, Oct. 12 (UDN): The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has intensified its food safety enforcement drive ahead of the festive season, carrying out inspections at hotels and restaurants in the Patia area to ensure that customers are served safe and hygienic food.
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During Monday’s raids, officials inspected food items at several establishments and destroyed stale and unfit food found during the operation. The drive aims to prevent unsafe food from reaching consumers as visits to eateries increase during the festive period.
60 Kg of Food Destroyed
BMC Food Safety Officer Satyajit Patel said around 60 kg of food had been destroyed so far as part of the enforcement campaign.
He said inspections were being conducted to identify stale and unhygienic food, with fines imposed on establishments found violating food safety requirements. Officials are also issuing warnings, while repeated or serious violations could lead to establishments being sealed.
The department is continuing its monitoring of hotels and restaurants to ensure that food served to the public meets basic hygiene and safety standards.
Strict Action Against Violations
With the festive season underway, the civic body has stepped up surveillance of food outlets to protect consumers from food that may be unsafe for consumption.
Alongside inspections and enforcement, officials are also raising awareness about food safety among the public and food business operators.
Patel said the raids would continue in the coming days, with the department maintaining vigilance over eateries across the city.
The intensified drive is intended to strengthen food safety compliance and ensure that residents and visitors can enjoy festive meals without compromising their health.
12, Oct 2026
From Dwarka to Noida: Dandiya Nights to Celebrate Navratri in Style
Oct 12: As Navratri brings Delhi-NCR alive with colour, music and festive cheer, the region is gearing up for a series of vibrant Dandiya Nights that promise more than just traditional celebrations. From live music and energetic dance performances to DJs, contests, giveaways and immersive festive experiences, malls across the city are creating the perfect setting for people to come together and celebrate. If you are looking to swap your regular weekend plans for an evening of music, dance and festive revelry, here are two Dandiya Nights across Delhi-NCR that you can look forward to this Navratri.
1. Vegas Mall, Dwarka, Delhi
This festive season, Vegas Mall, Dwarka, is all set to turn up the festive fervour with The Dandiya Tales, powered by Bata, a vibrant two-day celebration of music, dance and Navratri festivities on October 18–19, from 5 PM onwards. Adding star power to the celebrations, Bollywood actress Rakul Preet Singh will join the festivities on October 18, making the evening even more special. Visitors can look forward to electrifying performances by a live DJ and percussionist, high-energy acts by a professional dance group, exciting contests and giveaways, and a spectacular SFX showdown. With tickets starting at ₹599, The Dandiya Tales promises an unforgettable festive experience, bringing together celebrity glamour, cultural traditions and high-energy entertainment at Vegas Mall, Dwarka.
Spectrum@Metro, Noida
Get ready to groove to the beats of festivity as Spectrum@Metro presents Dandiya Night 4.0 on October 17, from 6 PM onwards at Spectrum@Metro, Sector 75, Noida. Bringing together the infectious energy of Navratri and the magic of live music, the evening will feature popular DJs DJ Perisha and DJ Gaurav, setting the stage for a high-energy celebration of dance, music and festive spirit. Gather your friends and family, put on your best festive colours and get ready for an unforgettable night of dandiya, music and celebration.
With a mix of traditional festive spirit and contemporary entertainment, these Dandiya Nights are set to make Navratri celebrations across Delhi-NCR even more exciting. Whether you are heading to Dwarka for an evening of live performances and festive activities or planning a high-energy night out in Noida with friends and family, both celebrations offer something for everyone. So, dress up in your festive best, pick up your dandiya sticks and get ready to dance the night away as Delhi-NCR celebrates the spirit of Navratri.
12, Oct 2026
NHAI Plants 5.20 Lakh Saplings Across Odisha, Focuses on Medicinal Forests and Bee Corridors
Bhubaneswar, Oct. 12 (UDN): The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has planted around 5.20 lakh saplings across Odisha over the past four months as part of a series of environmental initiatives aimed at expanding green cover, protecting biodiversity and supporting pollinators.
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The plantation drive includes medicinal gardens, bee-friendly corridors, greenery along highway medians and community-based planting programmes, reflecting efforts to integrate environmental conservation with highway infrastructure development.
Arogya Van to Preserve Medicinal Plants
Under its Arogya Van initiative, NHAI has planted 2,500 medicinal saplings at Kunduli in Koraput district along the Raipur–Visakhapatnam Economic Corridor (NH-130CD).
The plantation features traditional medicinal species such as Bahada, Neem, Harida and Amla. The initiative seeks to conserve indigenous plants while highlighting their ecological and medicinal significance.
NHAI plans to develop medicinal green spaces on suitable vacant land along national highways. These areas are expected to provide habitats for birds and small wildlife, support pollinators and improve ecological resilience.
Bee Corridors to Support Pollinators
As part of its Bee Corridor Plantation initiative, NHAI has planted at least 39,337 saplings of species including Neem, Spathodea, Arjun, Patoli, Kadamba, Tabebuia rosea and Radhachuda.
The initiative aims to create more pollinator-friendly stretches along highway corridors, helping strengthen local biodiversity.
Highway Medians and Community Plantations
The greening campaign also covers highway medians, where 87,338 plants have been planted. Species such as Bougainvillea, Tecoma, Calliandra and Caesalpinia have been selected to enhance the appearance and ecological value of highway stretches.
In addition, the authority has planted 6,000 bamboo saplings and undertaken community plantation activities involving another 7,097 plants.
Plantation drives have also been extended to schools, colleges and other community spaces to encourage public participation in environmental protection and expand green cover beyond highway land.
Green Infrastructure Push
Through medicinal plantations, pollinator-friendly corridors and community greening programmes, NHAI aims to make highway development more environmentally sustainable.
The initiatives are expected to contribute to biodiversity conservation and environmental awareness while improving greenery along Odisha’s national highway network.
12, Oct 2026
BJP National Leader Saudan Singh Begins Three-Day Odisha Visit Ahead of Local Body Polls
Bhubaneswar, Oct. 12 (UDN): The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has stepped up its organisational preparations for the upcoming panchayat and municipal elections in Odisha, with party National Joint Organisation General Secretary Saudan Singh beginning a three-day visit to the state.
During his visit, Singh is scheduled to interact with senior party leaders, elected representatives and grassroots workers to strengthen the organisation and assess its preparedness for the upcoming local body polls.
According to reports, Singh arrived in Odisha on Sunday and visited Puri to seek the blessings of Lord Jagannath before proceeding to the BJP state headquarters in Bhubaneswar.
His visit comes amid renewed organisational activity within the state unit following the appointment of Daggubati Purandeswari as the BJP’s state in-charge and Swadesh Singh as co-in-charge. The two leaders recently held discussions with party office-bearers on organisational matters.
Senior Leaders Expected to Meet Saudan Singh
BJP Odisha president Manmohan Samal and other senior party leaders are expected to hold discussions with Singh during his stay. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, along with ministers, MLAs and MPs, may also meet the national leader, depending on their availability.
The interactions are expected to focus on strengthening coordination within the party, improving organisational effectiveness and preparing workers for the electoral challenges ahead.
With local body elections approaching, the BJP is seeking to reinforce its organisational network and improve coordination between its leadership and grassroots cadres.
Manmohan Samal Highlights Singh’s Organisational Experience
Speaking about the visit, state BJP president Manmohan Samal said Singh’s extensive experience in organisational affairs would benefit the party’s expansion and election preparations in Odisha.
Samal noted that Singh had handled organisational responsibilities across several states over the years and said his guidance would help strengthen the party’s structure and improve its readiness for the upcoming polls.
He expressed confidence that Singh’s experience would contribute to building a stronger organisation in the state.
Party Workers to Interact With National Leader
A key component of Singh’s programme at the BJP state headquarters is interaction with party workers, including those who have recently joined the organisation.
Rather than being limited to formal meetings, the programme is intended to give workers an opportunity to introduce themselves, share their views and raise organisational concerns directly with the national leader.
The interactions are expected to help the party leadership understand grassroots-level issues and identify areas requiring greater attention ahead of the local elections.
Singh’s three-day visit is part of the BJP’s broader organisational efforts to consolidate its position in Odisha and strengthen its election preparedness through closer engagement with leaders and workers across the state.
12, Oct 2026
CM Majhi Backs SIR, Says Clean Electoral Rolls Crucial to Democratic Trust
Bhubaneswar, Oct. 12 (UDN): Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has strongly defended the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, describing it as an important exercise to safeguard electoral integrity, ensure fair representation and strengthen public confidence in democracy.
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In a post on his X handle on Monday, Majhi said free and fair elections are the foundation of a strong democracy and stressed that accurate electoral rolls are essential to protecting the voting rights of every eligible citizen.
He pointed out that duplicate entries, outdated information and the names of deceased persons remaining on voter lists can undermine the accuracy of electoral records. Maintaining clean and updated rolls, he said, is not merely an administrative requirement but a key step towards ensuring credible elections.
SIR Must Ensure Accuracy Without Excluding Eligible Voters
Majhi said the SIR exercise plays an important role in identifying discrepancies, removing duplicate entries and updating voter details following deaths or changes in residence.
However, he emphasised that the process must also ensure that no eligible voter is unfairly excluded from the electoral rolls.
“These are not minor administrative details; they go to the heart of electoral fairness, equal representation and the sanctity of every vote,” the Chief Minister stated.
He underlined that electoral roll revision must be conducted with fairness, due diligence and appropriate safeguards to protect the rights of legitimate voters.
CM Highlights Importance of Public Confidence
The Chief Minister maintained that reliable electoral records are fundamental to the credibility of the democratic process. He said effective implementation of the revision exercise would help ensure that voter lists accurately reflect the eligible electorate.
Majhi also stressed that a transparent and carefully conducted process would strengthen public confidence in electoral institutions and reinforce trust in democratic governance.
His remarks come amid an ongoing nationwide political debate over the Special Intensive Revision being conducted by the Election Commission of India.
Odisha’s Final Electoral Roll Records 3.16 Crore Electors
In Odisha, the final electoral roll published following the SIR process recorded approximately 3.16 crore electors, according to the information provided.
The revision exercise aims to improve the accuracy of electoral records while ensuring that eligible citizens retain their right to vote.
Majhi reiterated that maintaining reliable voter lists, while protecting legitimate voters from wrongful exclusion, is essential to upholding electoral fairness and ensuring that every vote carries its rightful significance.
12, Oct 2026
World Arthritis Day 2026: One in Six Indians Affected; Experts Emphasise Early Diagnosis and Treatment
Bhubaneswar, Oct 12 (UDN): Persistent joint pain, swelling and stiffness can make everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs and getting out of bed increasingly difficult. On World Arthritis Day, observed on October 12, health experts are highlighting the importance of early diagnosis, timely treatment and physiotherapy to manage arthritis and improve patients’ quality of life.
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Estimates suggest that nearly one in six Indians is affected by arthritis, underscoring the need for greater awareness of joint health. The condition can affect people across different age groups, including children and older adults, and may significantly restrict mobility if not managed appropriately.
Experts caution that persistent joint discomfort should not be ignored. Recognising symptoms early and seeking medical advice can help identify the underlying condition and ensure appropriate treatment.
Early Diagnosis Crucial for Arthritis Management
Orthopaedic specialist Professor Dr Biswajit Sahu stressed the importance of understanding arthritis, recognising its symptoms and knowing when to consult a doctor.
He highlighted the need to educate people about the causes of arthritis and the treatment options available, noting that greater awareness can encourage patients to seek timely medical attention rather than overlook persistent pain or stiffness.
Arthritis encompasses several conditions affecting the joints, each with different causes and treatment requirements. Early evaluation can help doctors determine the type of arthritis and recommend suitable management strategies.
Depending on the condition, treatment may involve medication, physiotherapy, exercise and lifestyle modifications.
Physiotherapy Can Help Improve Knee Mobility
Knee osteoarthritis can cause pain, stiffness and difficulty bending the knee, affecting a person’s ability to walk comfortably and perform routine activities.
Physiotherapist Dr Sanjay Ram highlighted the role of the popliteus muscle, located at the back of the knee, in controlling knee movement. He explained that people with knee osteoarthritis may experience restricted movement and adopt altered walking patterns, potentially contributing to discomfort.
According to Dr Ram, certain physiotherapy approaches focus on relaxing the popliteus muscle to help improve knee mobility. However, treatment should be tailored to each patient’s condition and carried out under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.
Physiotherapy, when appropriately prescribed, can help improve movement, strengthen supporting muscles and support better joint function.
Lifestyle Changes Can Support Joint Health
Although not all forms of arthritis can be prevented, experts recommend maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active and following a balanced diet to support overall joint health.
Excess body weight can place additional stress on weight-bearing joints, particularly the knees and hips. Suitable physical activity can help maintain muscle strength, flexibility and mobility.
People experiencing persistent joint pain, swelling, stiffness or difficulty moving should seek medical evaluation instead of relying solely on home remedies or self-medication.
Timely Treatment Can Improve Quality of Life
Arthritis management varies according to the type and severity of the condition. Early diagnosis, appropriate medical treatment and regular follow-up can help control symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
As World Arthritis Day is observed, health experts are urging people to prioritise joint health and seek professional advice when symptoms persist.
Greater awareness, timely intervention and appropriate rehabilitation can help people with arthritis maintain mobility, remain active and enjoy a better quality of life.
12, Oct 2026
Navratri Day 2: Odisha Shakti Peeths Witness Special Rituals as Goddess Brahmacharini Is Worshipped
Bhubaneswar, Oct. 12 (UDN): Navratri celebrations have gathered momentum across Odisha, with prominent Shakti Peeths and temples witnessing special prayers and religious rituals on the second day of the nine-day festival. Devotees are worshipping Goddess Durga in her second form, Maa Brahmacharini, seeking blessings for peace, strength, prosperity and spiritual growth.
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Temples across the state have been decorated for the auspicious occasion, creating a devotional atmosphere as devotees arrive to offer prayers and participate in traditional ceremonies.
Maa Brahmacharini: Symbol of Devotion and Spiritual Strength
The second day of Navratri is dedicated to Maa Brahmacharini, a form of Goddess Durga associated with devotion, perseverance, penance and spiritual discipline. Worshipping the goddess is believed to inspire determination, patience and inner strength among devotees.
Special pujas, mantra chanting and other religious observances mark the occasion, while many devotees observe fasts and devote time to prayer as part of their Navratri practices.
The first day of the festival was dedicated to Maa Shailaputri, with devotees offering prayers at temples across Odisha to mark the beginning of the nine-day celebration.
Nine Days Dedicated to Nine Forms of Goddess Durga
Navratri celebrates the nine manifestations of Goddess Durga, collectively known as the Navadurga. Each form represents distinct divine qualities and holds special significance in Hindu religious tradition.
The nine forms worshipped during the festival are Maa Shailaputri on the first day, Maa Brahmacharini on the second, Maa Chandraghanta on the third, Maa Kushmanda on the fourth and Maa Skandamata on the fifth.
Maa Katyayani is worshipped on the sixth day, followed by Maa Kalaratri on the seventh, Maa Mahagauri on the eighth and Maa Siddhidatri on the ninth day.
The festival is observed with prayers, fasting, devotional singing and special temple rituals. Devotees believe that sincere worship during these nine days brings divine blessings, positivity and spiritual well-being.
Devotional Atmosphere at Odisha’s Shakti Peeths
Major Shakti Peeths and other prominent temples across Odisha are witnessing religious fervour as devotees gather to seek the blessings of the Mother Goddess. Special rituals, traditional worship practices and the ceremonial adornment of the deities remain important features of the celebrations.
For devotees, Navratri is an occasion to strengthen their spiritual connection, practise self-discipline and seek the goddess’s blessings for their families and communities.
As the festivities continue, the second day serves as a reminder of the values associated with Maa Brahmacharini—faith, dedication, patience and unwavering determination.
The nine-day festival will continue with the worship of the remaining forms of Goddess Durga, culminating in the final day dedicated to Maa Siddhidatri.
