Category Archives: News

Odisha Signs MoUs Worth Rs 24,823 Crore; Nearly 29,500 Jobs to Be Created

Bhubaneswar, June 26 (UDN): In a major boost to Odisha’s industrial landscape, the state on Friday witnessed the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) for seven mega projects involving investments worth Rs 24,823 crore, with the proposed ventures expected to generate employment opportunities for nearly 29,500 people.

The agreements were signed in the presence of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi during the third Eastern Regional Council Meeting of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) held in Bhubaneswar.

The proposed projects span key sectors and are expected to significantly strengthen Odisha’s industrial ecosystem, attract fresh investments and accelerate the state’s economic growth trajectory.

Addressing industry leaders and investors, Chief Minister Majhi said the new investment commitments reflect growing confidence in Odisha’s industrial potential and reaffirm the state’s vision of emerging as a leading growth engine in eastern India.

“The next chapter of India’s growth story is being written in Eastern India. Odisha is poised to play a pivotal role in this transformation in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Purvodaya’,” the Chief Minister said.

He highlighted that Odisha’s investor-friendly policies, robust infrastructure, abundant natural resources and skilled workforce have made the state a preferred destination for industries and entrepreneurs.

Majhi further stated that the newly signed projects would not only strengthen the state’s manufacturing and industrial base but also create large-scale employment opportunities, thereby contributing to inclusive socio-economic development.

Industry representatives participating in the meeting expressed optimism over Odisha’s growth prospects and appreciated the state’s proactive approach towards industrial development and ease of doing business.

The signing of the seven MoUs is being viewed as a significant milestone in Odisha’s efforts to attract large investments and position itself as a key industrial hub in eastern India.

Centre Charts Roadmap for Green Urea Production, Plans 7.24 Lakh MT Green Ammonia Procurement

New Delhi, June 26: The Centre has initiated a roadmap for the production of Green Urea as part of its efforts to promote sustainable fertiliser manufacturing and accelerate India’s transition to clean energy.

As part of the initiative under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, the government plans to procure 7.24 lakh metric tonnes (MT) of Green Ammonia annually to support the production of environment-friendly fertilisers.

The Department of Fertilisers has invited Expressions of Interest (EOI) for setting up Green Urea plants and has begun consultations with public and private sector stakeholders to prepare an implementation strategy.

Officials said the proposed framework aims to encourage the use of Green Ammonia in place of conventional Grey Ammonia without increasing the cost burden on fertiliser manufacturers. The initiative is expected to create a viable ecosystem for green fertiliser production while promoting investments in renewable energy and green hydrogen.

The move is part of the government’s broader strategy to reduce dependence on fossil fuel-based inputs, strengthen fertiliser security, and lower carbon emissions from the agriculture sector.

The Green Urea programme is expected to play a significant role in advancing India’s clean energy goals while supporting sustainable agricultural and industrial development.

Centre Launches India’s First ‘Easy Connect’ Flight Service from Varanasi

New Delhi, June 26: The Centre has launched India’s first ‘Easy Connect’ flight service from Varanasi to make international travel easier and more convenient for passengers.

The new service allows travellers to complete baggage check-in and other required formalities at their departure airport before connecting to international flights through a major hub, reducing waiting time and making the journey smoother.

The inaugural service was launched from Varanasi and will initially provide seamless connectivity to several international destinations via Delhi.

Officials said the initiative is aimed at improving international air connectivity from non-metro cities and offering passengers a hassle-free travel experience.

The government plans to expand the ‘Easy Connect’ service to more cities in the coming phases as part of efforts to strengthen India’s aviation network.

Tripura Claims Achievement of Doubling Farmers’ Income, Says CM Saha

Agartala, June 2026: The Tripura government has announced that it has achieved its target of doubling farmers’ income in the state, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha said while highlighting key developments in the agriculture sector.

According to the Chief Minister, the progress has been driven by a combination of measures aimed at strengthening rural livelihoods, improving agricultural productivity, and expanding access to modern farming inputs and practices. He noted that consistent policy support and welfare initiatives have played a key role in enhancing the income levels of farming communities.

The state government pointed to increased focus on irrigation infrastructure, distribution of quality seeds and inputs, and improved extension services to farmers as important contributors to this outcome. Efforts to promote allied sectors such as horticulture, fisheries, and animal husbandry have also helped diversify income sources in rural households.

CM Saha stated that the achievement reflects the government’s commitment to farmer welfare and sustainable agricultural development. He added that continued efforts will be made to further strengthen rural economies and ensure long-term income stability for farmers across the state.

Officials said the initiative aligns with broader goals of boosting agricultural growth, improving productivity, and ensuring better market access for farmers.

India, Venezuela Move Toward Deeper Institutional Cooperation in Energy Trade

Gold Market Sees Major Correction as Prices of Gold and Silver Drop

Bhubaneswar, June 26 (UDN): In a major relief for consumers and jewellery buyers, gold and silver prices witnessed a significant decline in domestic markets on Thursday, raising hopes of increased demand ahead of the upcoming festive and wedding seasons.

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Market sources said the prices of both precious metals registered a sharp correction amid fluctuations in global bullion markets, easing concerns among consumers who had deferred purchases due to soaring rates in recent months.

Jewellers said the decline in prices is expected to boost retail demand, particularly among customers planning purchases for weddings, festivals and investment purposes. Traders are optimistic that the correction in rates will revive market sentiment and improve sales in the coming weeks.

Industry experts attributed the fall in prices to a combination of factors, including changing global economic indicators, fluctuations in international bullion prices, movements in the US dollar and investor sentiment in global markets.

While market analysts expect some volatility in the near term, they advised consumers and investors to closely monitor price trends before making large purchases or investment decisions.

Jewellery traders across several cities reported an increase in customer inquiries following the price drop, with many buyers viewing the correction as an opportune time to invest in precious metals.

Market observers said future price movements would largely depend on international market trends, geopolitical developments and monetary policy decisions by major central banks.

India Wins 24 Medals at ISSF Junior World Championship 2026

New Delhi, June 26: India delivered a strong performance at the ISSF Junior World Championship 2026, securing a total of 24 medals, officials said.

The Indian contingent showed consistent performance across rifle, pistol, and shotgun events, reflecting the growing depth of junior shooting talent in the country.

Coaches and officials attributed the success to structured training programmes, improved infrastructure, and increased exposure to international competitions, which have helped young athletes perform confidently at the global level.

Sports authorities said the achievement highlights India’s rising presence in international shooting and the strength of its talent development system.

The performance is expected to boost morale ahead of upcoming international events and strengthen India’s prospects in senior-level competitions.

From Belpahar Stage to National School of Drama: Sonia Behera Scripts History

Belpahar, Jharsuguda, June 26 (UDN): What began as a young girl’s fascination with a stage performance at a school function in Belpahar has culminated in a historic achievement for Odisha’s theatre community. Twenty-five-year-old Sonia Behera has become the first woman from the state to secure admission to the prestigious three-year Diploma in Dramatics programme at the National School of Drama (NSD), New Delhi.

Sonia secured the eighth rank in the All India merit list after scoring 80.05 percentile in the highly competitive admission process. The selection involved multiple stages, including preliminary screening, intensive theatre workshops, practical assessments and personal interviews conducted at the NSD campus in New Delhi between June 14 and 19.

For Sonia, the achievement marks the fulfilment of a dream she had never envisioned when she first stepped into the world of theatre.

“I feel immensely proud. When I started performing, I had never imagined that I would one day study at the National School of Drama. It still feels surreal,” she said.

The eldest among five siblings, Sonia’s journey in theatre began in 2015 after she watched the acclaimed play Lal Paen during a school event in Belpahar. The performance, staged by Jharsuguda-based Mirror Theatre Group, left a profound impact on her and inspired her to join the troupe later that year.

Over the past eleven years, Sonia has established herself as a versatile theatre artiste, performing in several acclaimed productions, including Lal Paen, ULPI, April-27, Badakha Dada, Pachen, Ramadevi, Tor Jhumka, Tor Kiriya, Bhokara Aneka Ranga and Panata Kani.

She also played the lead role in Kaenjuri, a landmark production that entered the record books for a continuous performance lasting 49 hours, 48 minutes and 12 seconds. Her performances in Lal Paen and ULPI, staged across Odisha and other parts of the country, earned her national recognition.

Sonia credited her mother for encouraging her to pursue theatre despite the uncertainties associated with the profession. She also acknowledged the unwavering support and mentorship of Mirror Theatre founder-director Dr Subash Chandra Pradhan and senior members of the troupe, whom she described as instrumental in shaping her artistic journey.

Describing Sonia’s selection as a proud moment for the state, Dr Pradhan said her success demonstrates that talent from smaller towns can compete at the highest level when nurtured with dedication and proper guidance.

Sonia hopes her achievement will inspire aspiring artistes, particularly young women from rural and small-town backgrounds, to pursue their passion fearlessly and believe that national platforms are within their reach.

Operation Amistad: India Deploys Aid Team to Venezuela

New Delhi, June 26: An Indian Army humanitarian assistance team has been deployed to Venezuela under Operation Amistad to support relief efforts following a devastating earthquake in the country.

The team will assist local authorities in ongoing rescue and relief operations and provide necessary humanitarian support to affected populations. Their role is expected to include coordination of relief activities, support in search and rescue efforts where required, and assistance in managing emergency response operations on the ground.

Officials said the deployment reflects India’s continued commitment to global humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, particularly in times of natural calamities affecting friendly nations.

The mission will be carried out in close coordination with Venezuelan authorities and other international agencies engaged in relief work to ensure effective and timely support to those impacted.

Chhattisgarh Initiates First Step Towards Implementation of Uniform Civil Code

Raipur, June 26: Chhattisgarh has taken the first formal step towards exploring the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the state, officials said on Thursday.

The move is aimed at examining legal, social, and administrative aspects related to the possible introduction of a common civil law framework governing personal laws.

Officials said the process will involve consultations with legal experts, stakeholders, and civil society representatives to assess the feasibility and implications of such a reform.

The initiative marks the beginning of a structured review process, with the state government seeking to understand how a Uniform Civil Code could be framed and implemented in accordance with constitutional provisions.

Further details regarding the composition of committees or timelines for the exercise are expected to be announced in due course.

The development is seen as an initial step in evaluating policy options related to civil law uniformity in the state.