5, Oct 2026
Odisha Launches MICE Incentive Portal to Attract Global Business Events
Bhubaneswar, Oct. 5 (UDN): Odisha has taken a major step towards strengthening its position as a destination for business events, conferences and experiential tourism with the launch of a dedicated MICE Incentive Portal.
The digital platform was inaugurated by Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida during a high-level roundtable on developing the state’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) ecosystem.
The session was organised jointly by the Odisha Tourism Department and FICCI at Mayfair Sanctuary as part of Odisha Travel Bazaar 2026.
One-Stop Digital Platform for MICE Sector
According to the Tourism Department, Odisha has become the first state in India to introduce a dedicated digital platform focused on promoting destinations for corporate events and facilitating applications for financial incentives.
The portal is expected to make it easier for event organisers, tourism operators and investors to explore opportunities, access incentives and navigate the application process.
Faster Approvals, Investment Support
Addressing industry representatives, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida said the state government was committed to creating a transparent and investor-friendly environment for MICE events.
She said the government would work with the private sector to identify administrative hurdles, streamline approvals and consider targeted capital subsidies to encourage investment.
The support will extend beyond corporate conferences to areas such as destination weddings, sports events and cultural and heritage-based programmes.
Odisha’s Heritage as a Tourism Advantage
Parida highlighted Odisha’s rich cultural and historical assets as key attractions for the growing destination-events market.
She said Bhubaneswar’s temples, heritage sites, traditional culture, cuisine and scenic destinations could provide distinctive experiences for corporate groups, wedding planners and younger travellers seeking immersive tourism.
Tourism Commissioner-cum-Secretary Balwant Singh outlined investment opportunities under the Odisha Tourism Investment Policy, emphasising government support for heritage, sports and business events.
Industry Calls for Cultural Integration
Sabbas Joseph, FICCI MICE Tourism Committee Chairman and Co-Founder of Wizcraft Group, presented an industry roadmap aimed at integrating Odisha’s heritage, handicrafts, cuisine and local traditions into conference and hospitality experiences.
Celebrity chef and Odisha’s brand ambassador for Odia cuisine Ranveer Brar stressed that cultural authenticity should remain at the heart of the state’s tourism promotion.
Brar proposed a 100-day mapping exercise to identify potential event venues, local storytellers, traditional recipes, cooks, markets and festivals that could become part of Odisha’s experiential tourism offering.
He also called for greater direct support to indigenous artisans and the use of language and interpretation services to present Odisha’s traditions to domestic and international visitors without compromising their cultural identity.
Odisha Eyes Bigger Share of MICE Tourism
The roundtable brought together government officials, tourism stakeholders and industry representatives to discuss the infrastructure, professional standards and operational systems required to attract major national and international events.
With the new incentive portal, policy support and growing focus on experiential tourism, Odisha is seeking to position itself as a competitive destination for conventions, incentive travel, destination weddings and culturally immersive events.
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- By Neel Achary
5, Oct 2026
MGM Healthcare Takes Advanced Minimally Invasive Cardiothoracic Surgical Techniques to Iraq
Chennai, October 05, 2026: A team of doctors from MGM Healthcare travelled to Iraq to perform minimally invasive cardiothoracic surgery on two patients with life-threatening conditions, introducing the advanced technique to local medical professionals and providing an opportunity for knowledge-sharing and clinical learning.
The team, comprising 10 doctors, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, ICU nurses, and scrub nurses, stayed in Karbala in central Iraq for over a week, training local medical professionals in minimally invasive procedures while also performing surgeries on two patients. The team was headed by Dr. Vinod Kumar Manikala, Senior Consultant, Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgeon, and had carried all the specially designed equipment required to perform the surgeries.
The team performed Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery–Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (MICS-CABG) on a 100-kilogram patient who had blockages in three coronary arteries supplying blood to the heart. Through a small, 2-inch incision on the left side of the chest, the team successfully performed the bypass procedure on the patient’s beating heart, without opening the breastbone.
Conventionally, open heart bypass surgery will be performed on patients with blockages in arteries. It requires at least a 10-12 inch incision and opening the breastbone. It also requires a prolonged rest period for recovery.
The team has also performed Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) on a man whose portion of lung was dilated and infected. Through a 2-inch unilateral incision on the left chest, they had sent a tiny camera and specialised instruments into the chest to remove the diseased portion of the lung.
Both the patients had recovered quickly without any risks and returned home. They are under constant monitoring.
On comparison with traditional methods, minimally invasive cardiothoracic surgery offers several advantages, including smaller incisions, reduced damage to surrounding tissues, less postoperative pain and blood loss, and a lower risk of certain wound-related complications.
By avoiding the need for a large chest incision and cutting of the breastbone, this technique can help patients mobilise earlier and achieve a faster recovery, resulting in an earlier return to normal activities. The approach enables surgeons to perform complex procedures through specialised instruments and advanced surgical techniques.
In his comments, Dr. Vinod Kumar Manikala said, “A team from MGM Healthcare travelled to Kerbala in Iraq to train local doctors and medical professionals in minimally invasive cardiothoracic procedures, which are relatively new to them. During our week-long visit, we had the opportunity to share our expertise and experience in these advanced surgical techniques, conduct hands-on training and perform complex procedures on patients. It was a valuable opportunity for knowledge exchange and capacity building, enabling the local medical team to gain practical exposure to minimally invasive approaches and understand how these techniques can be adopted in appropriate cases.”
5, Oct 2026
Seven Global Leaders Honoured With KIIT-KISS ‘Is One’ Lifetime Achievement Awards
Bhubaneswar, Oct. 5 (UDN): Seven distinguished personalities from the fields of education, public service and social development were honoured with the KIIT-KISS ‘Is One’ (KKIO) Lifetime Achievement Award at a special ceremony held at the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) in Bhubaneswar.
The event brought together eminent national and international guests, who visited KIIT and KISS and interacted with students, sharing insights on education, leadership and social responsibility.
Seven Eminent Personalities Recognised
The prestigious lifetime achievement honours were conferred on:
Padma Shri Phoolbasan Bai Yadav, founder of Maa Bamleshwari Janhitkari Samiti, Chhattisgarh
Dr Brock Tessman, President, Montana State University, USA
Lia Olguța Vasilescu, Mayor of Craiova, Romania
Vasile Cărăre, Mayor of Milișăuți, Romania
Dumitru Boroș, Mayor of Bârlad, Romania
Eric Federico Pérez Vega, Rector, APEC University
Jorge Calzoni, Rector, National University of Avellaneda
The awardees were recognised for their contributions and achievements across their respective fields.
Education as a Force for Change
Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav, who attended the programme as the chief guest, said education should go beyond the acquisition of knowledge and become a means of personal transformation.
He urged students to remain committed to society and remember their responsibilities towards the community even after completing their education.
US Congressman Michael Baumgartner praised KIIT and KISS as significant educational institutions and highlighted the potential of education to further strengthen ties between India and the United States.
Celebrating Global Contributions
KIIT and KISS Founder Dr Achyuta Samanta, in his welcome address, expressed gratitude to the distinguished guests and award recipients for their presence and contribution to the occasion.
The ceremony highlighted KIIT and KISS’s growing international engagement while providing students with an opportunity to interact with accomplished personalities from different parts of the world.
5, Oct 2026
Nandankanan Adds 36 New Animals and Birds Across 11 Species
Bhubaneswar, Oct. 5 (UDN): Wildlife enthusiasts and tourists have more reasons to visit Nandankanan Zoological Park, with the zoo adding 36 new animals and birds belonging to 11 species to its growing collection.
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The newly developed enclosures were opened to visitors on October 3 as part of the ongoing State-level Wildlife Week celebrations, offering visitors an opportunity to see several species that are rarely found in this part of the country.
Zebras, Kangaroos and More
Among the latest additions are zebras, kangaroos, wallabies, meerkats and tufted capuchin monkeys. The new collection also includes a range of colourful exotic birds, such as scarlet ibis, sulphur-crested cockatoos and three varieties of macaws.
The arrival of these species is expected to be a major attraction, particularly for children and families visiting the zoo during the festive season.
New Enclosures for Better Visitor Experience
The newly constructed enclosures have been designed with attention to the animals’ welfare while also providing visitors with better viewing opportunities.
Zoo officials said the facilities aim to provide suitable living conditions for the newly introduced species while creating an engaging and educational experience for tourists.
The additions are expected to further diversify Nandankanan’s animal collection and enhance its appeal as a major wildlife destination in Odisha.
Focus on Wildlife Education and Conservation
Officials said the introduction of new species is not merely aimed at increasing visitor footfall. It is also intended to strengthen wildlife education, conservation awareness and public engagement with biodiversity.
The new arrivals come at a time when Wildlife Week celebrations are encouraging people to learn more about the importance of protecting animals and their natural habitats.
With its expanded collection and upgraded enclosures, Nandankanan Zoological Park is set to offer visitors a broader glimpse into the world of wildlife while reinforcing its role in conservation and environmental education.
5, Oct 2026
Sharadiya Shodasha Upachara Puja Begins at Odisha’s Shakti Peethas
Bhubaneswar, Oct. 5 (UDN): The sacred Sharadiya Shodasha Upachara Puja has begun at several revered Shakti Peethas across Odisha, ushering in 16 days of elaborate rituals, devotional ceremonies and special adornments of the presiding deities.
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With the onset of the annual worship, temples across the state have come alive with the chanting of mantras, ringing of bells and devotional hymns as devotees throng the shrines to seek the blessings of the Goddess during the auspicious Sharadiya season.
The special rituals will continue for 16 days and culminate on Vijaya Dashami. Throughout the period, the deities will appear in different traditional beshas, while priests will perform a series of special rituals and ceremonies.
Chandi Path and Homa to Continue Daily
The religious observances include daily Chandi Path and Homa Yajna, along with several other traditional rituals.
The festivities began with sacred ceremonies including Ghata Sthapana and Sahasra Kumbha Abhisheka. Special worship will also be conducted on significant occasions such as Mula Ashtami and Durga Ashtami, drawing larger crowds of devotees to the temples.
Maa Cuttack Chandi Adorned in Suna Besha
In Cuttack, the city’s presiding deity Maa Cuttack Chandi, along with Maa Gadachandi, has been adorned in Suna Besha. Draped in glittering gold ornaments, the deities offered a special and spiritually significant darshan to devotees.
The Shodasha Upachara period holds special significance for devotees, providing an opportunity to witness elaborate rituals and different forms of the Goddess throughout the 16-day observance.
Festive Spirit Grips Odisha
With the rituals now underway, major Shakti shrines across Odisha are preparing for an increasingly vibrant festive atmosphere. Temple authorities have stepped up preparations as devotees are expected to visit in large numbers during the coming days.
The culmination of the sacred observance on Vijaya Dashami will mark the end of the 16-day worship, bringing the Sharadiya celebrations at the Shakti Peethas to a grand close.
5, Oct 2026
Kalinga Studio Set for Grand Reopening After INR 164-Crore Makeover
Bhubaneswar, Oct. 5 (UDN): The iconic Kalinga Studio is all set to reopen its doors, marking a major milestone for Odisha’s film industry. After an extensive modernisation project involving an estimated investment of ₹164 crore, the legendary studio has been transformed into a state-of-the-art production facility.
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Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi is scheduled to officially inaugurate the revamped studio, bringing an end to the long wait for filmmakers, technicians and artists who have been looking forward to its revival.
A New Era of Film Production
The renovated Kalinga Studio has been equipped with modern infrastructure designed to meet the evolving needs of the film and entertainment industry.
The upgraded facility includes soundproof shooting floors, modern sets, advanced lighting systems and flexible production spaces suitable for a wide range of filmmaking requirements.
The studio has also been strengthened with comprehensive post-production facilities, including advanced systems for sound recording, editing, mixing and visual effects (VFX). These additions are expected to allow filmmakers to complete a larger part of their production work within Odisha.
Better Facilities for Artists and Crews
Beyond production infrastructure, the revamped complex also focuses on the comfort and convenience of film crews. The facility features residential accommodation, modern green rooms and well-equipped cafeterias for actors, technicians and other members of production teams.
Boost for Ollywood
The reopening is expected to provide a significant push to Ollywood, Odisha’s regional film industry. With high-end production and post-production facilities available within the state, filmmakers may no longer need to travel to other cities for specialised services.
Industry stakeholders believe the upgraded infrastructure could help reduce production costs, improve technical standards and create new employment opportunities for local artists, technicians and support workers.
The revival of Kalinga Studio is therefore more than the reopening of a film facility—it signals a renewed push towards strengthening Odisha as a destination for film production.
With modern infrastructure and renewed investment, the historic studio is poised to begin a new chapter and play a key role in shaping the future of Odia cinema.
4, Oct 2026
Odisha Extends Electric Vehicle Policy Till December 31, 2026
Bhubaneswar, Oct. 4 (UDN): The Odisha government has extended the validity of its Electric Vehicle Policy, 2021 by another three months, allowing the existing policy framework to remain in force until December 31, 2026.
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The decision was notified by the Commerce and Transport Department on Saturday under the provisions of Para 11.5 of the Odisha Electric Vehicle Policy, 2021.
The notification, issued by Principal Secretary NBS Rajput, formally extends the policy’s validity beyond its earlier deadline.
Existing EV Framework Continues
The Odisha Electric Vehicle Policy, introduced in 2021, was aimed at accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles and encouraging a shift towards cleaner mobility across the state.
The policy provides a framework for promoting electric mobility and supporting the development of an EV-friendly ecosystem in Odisha.
With the latest extension, the existing provisions will continue to apply through the end of December, providing continuity for EV buyers, manufacturers and other stakeholders while the government considers the next phase of its electric mobility policy.
Focus on Electric Mobility
Odisha has been encouraging the transition towards electric vehicles as part of broader efforts to promote cleaner transportation and reduce dependence on conventional fuels.
The extension keeps the state’s existing EV policy framework operational for the next three months, with the new validity period ending on December 31, 2026.
The government’s decision is expected to provide clarity to stakeholders in the electric mobility sector during the transition to the next policy framework.
4, Oct 2026
Odisha Travel Bazaar 2026: Majhi Unveils Major Tourism Push to Put State on Global Map
Bhubaneswar, Oct. 4 (UDN): Odisha has unveiled an ambitious roadmap to position itself as a leading global tourism destination, with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announcing a series of policy, infrastructure and safety measures at the 7th Odisha Travel Bazaar in Bhubaneswar.
Pic Credit: x.com/CMO_Odisha
The event brought together investors, hospitality groups, tour operators and tourism stakeholders from India and abroad, providing a platform for the state to showcase its untapped tourism potential and attract fresh investment into the sector.
Big Push for Hotels and Tourism Infrastructure
The Chief Minister announced a series of changes aimed at making Odisha more attractive to hospitality investors.
Under the revised approach, the minimum room requirement for star-category hotels has been reduced from 50 rooms to 10 rooms. The maximum capital subsidy ceiling has also been raised substantially, from ₹20 crore to up to ₹120 crore.
The government has earmarked ₹1,500 crore for tourism infrastructure between 2026 and 2031 and approved a dedicated 5,500-acre land bank to facilitate hospitality and tourism-related projects.
Majhi said Odisha’s long coastline, forests, wetlands, heritage sites and cultural traditions provide the state with a unique tourism advantage.
He highlighted the government’s Viksit Odisha Vision 2036–2047 as a broader framework for building an investor-friendly ecosystem and expanding quality tourism infrastructure.
Safety to Get Greater Attention
With tourist safety emerging as a key component of the state’s tourism strategy, the government plans to deploy Tourist Police at 29 important locations.
Around 1,000 trained lifeguards will also be deployed through OSWALI across coastal destinations and water-sports zones.
The government is additionally planning to appoint Destination Managers at major tourist locations to improve visitor experience and coordinate services at high-footfall destinations.
The Chief Minister stressed the importance of treating visitors with warmth and respect, invoking the traditional Indian principle of “Atithi Devo Bhava.”
Tourism Goes Digital
Odisha is also looking to strengthen its digital tourism ecosystem.
A new Odisha Tourism Portal and the Odisha Tourism Investment Incentive Management System were launched to improve access to tourism information and streamline investment-related processes.
The initiatives are expected to make it easier for tourists, businesses and potential investors to engage with the state’s tourism sector.
Culture, Heritage and Adventure in Focus
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida highlighted Odisha’s rich cultural identity, Buddhist heritage, traditional handlooms, Chilika Lake and expanding eco-tourism opportunities.
She said the state’s tourism strategy would focus on authentic experiences while maintaining an emphasis on sustainability, adventure tourism and employment opportunities for local communities.
The event also witnessed the unveiling of the coffee-table book ‘Pitha, Mitha Pana’, celebrating Odisha’s culinary heritage, along with the official jersey for the upcoming Puri Coastal Marathon.
Kapil Dev Highlights Odisha’s Sporting Legacy
Former Indian cricket captain Kapil Dev praised Odisha’s contribution to Indian hockey and its growing sporting ecosystem.
He said Odisha’s transformation could extend beyond tourism, with the state increasingly establishing itself as an important sports destination.
The Travel Bazaar brought together several prominent figures from government, tourism and the hospitality industry, including Chief Secretary Anu Garg, Tourism Commissioner-cum-Secretary Balwant Singh, Director of Tourism Dipankar Mohapatra, FICCI National Tourism Committee Co-Chair Dr J.K. Mohanty, chef Ranveer Brar and Asian Games pole-vault record holder Baranica Elangovan.
With expanded incentives, new infrastructure plans, digital platforms and stronger tourist-safety measures, Odisha is seeking to turn its natural beauty, heritage and sporting identity into a globally recognised tourism brand.
4, Oct 2026
Odisha Universities Told to Fill Faculty Vacancies by November-End
Bhubaneswar, Oct. 4: Odisha Governor and Chancellor of state universities Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati has directed all state public universities to expedite the recruitment of teaching staff and complete the process by the end of November.
Pic Credit: //x.com/DHE_Odisha
The directive came during a high-level review meeting on faculty recruitment held at Lok Bhavan, where Vice-Chancellors and senior officials discussed the status of vacant teaching posts across universities.
The Governor asked universities to begin the recruitment process by the first week of November, leaving institutions with a clear deadline to complete appointments before the month ends.
Merit to Remain the Top Priority
Emphasising the importance of academic quality, Kambhampati said merit must remain the central consideration while selecting teaching faculty.
He stressed that universities should not compromise on the quality of appointments and must make every effort to attract the best available academic talent.
The Governor also suggested a recruitment approach aimed at ensuring wider participation by eligible candidates. Instead of eliminating large numbers of applicants at the initial scrutiny stage, universities could consider inviting all eligible candidates for interviews, allowing selection panels to assess their academic credentials and suitability more comprehensively.
Focus on Green and Sustainable Campuses
The meeting also covered issues beyond faculty recruitment, with the Governor encouraging universities to adopt sustainable practices on their campuses.
Referring to the IGBC Platinum Green certification received by Odisha Lok Bhavan, he urged universities to make better use of their existing green spaces and work towards obtaining similar green certifications.
He also recommended expanding the use of solar energy on university campuses through self-funded projects or Renewable Energy Service Company (RESCO) models.
Uniform Tenure for Vice-Chancellors
Another issue discussed was the tenure of Vice-Chancellors in state public universities.
The Governor called for a uniform tenure policy, pointing out that the existing terms vary between institutions, with some Vice-Chancellors serving three-year terms and others four years.
Government Sets November Deadline
Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj backed the Governor’s directions and asked Vice-Chancellors to prepare specific timelines to ensure that the recruitment target is achieved within the stipulated period.
Higher Education Commissioner-cum-Secretary Aravind Agrawal presented details on the existing faculty vacancies and the status of recruitment across state universities.
Vice-Chancellors, Registrars and senior officials from the Higher Education Department and Lok Bhavan attended the meeting.
With the November deadline now set, universities are expected to accelerate the recruitment process and address long-pending faculty shortages, a move aimed at strengthening teaching and academic activities across Odisha’s higher education institutions.
4, Oct 2026
October Heatwave-Like Conditions Leave People Sweltering Through Day and Night
Bhubaneswar, Oct. 4: October is traditionally associated with a gradual retreat of the monsoon and a shift towards more comfortable weather, but this year, several parts of Odisha are experiencing conditions that feel more like the peak of summer.
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Scorching temperatures during the day, combined with oppressive humidity after sunset, have left residents struggling to find relief. The intense heat has made outdoor activities particularly uncomfortable, while the lack of respite at night has added to the discomfort.
The unusual weather pattern has raised concerns among residents, especially those who have to commute or work outdoors for long hours. Even after the sun goes down, high humidity is making the atmosphere feel stifling, with many people reporting difficulty sleeping and remaining comfortable indoors.
Weather conditions during this period are being closely watched as October progresses, particularly amid concerns over possible changes in atmospheric conditions over the Bay of Bengal.
For residents, however, the immediate concern is the relentless heat.
From scorching afternoons to sticky nights, October has so far offered little relief—making it feel less like autumn and more like an extended summer.
