Category Archives: News

Chelsea Captain Millie Bright Announces Retirement from Football

London, Apr 29 (BNP): Chelsea Women’s team captain Millie Bright has announced her retirement from professional football, bringing an end to a highly decorated career at the club and on the international stage.

Bright, who has been Chelsea’s longest-serving player, was part of the squad’s first major trophy win in 2015 and went on to play a key role in 19 more title victories during her tenure. She said the decision marks the beginning of a new chapter in her life after giving everything to the game.

In her statement, Bright expressed gratitude to Chelsea, saying she is proud to have represented the club exclusively throughout her career and will always remain connected to it in a different capacity.

Chelsea confirmed that she will continue her association with the club as a trustee of its foundation and also serve as a club ambassador, reflecting her long-standing contribution and leadership.

During her career, Bright set multiple records, including becoming Chelsea’s all-time appearance leader and making over 300 appearances for the club. She also played a key role in the team’s domestic success, winning multiple league titles, FA Cups, and League Cups.

On the international stage, Bright earned over 80 caps for England and was part of the squad that won the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022. She also captained England to the FIFA Women’s World Cup final in 2023 and was awarded an OBE for her contribution to football.

Her retirement marks the end of an era for Chelsea Women, with her legacy defined by leadership, consistency, and sustained success at the highest level.

Odisha Launches E Bus Service to Boost Clean Mobility and Urban Connectivity

Bhubaneswar, Apr 29 (BNP): The Government of Odisha has launched a modern electric bus (e-bus) service aimed at transforming urban transportation and promoting environmentally sustainable mobility across the state.

ଅତ୍ୟାଧୁନିକ ଇ-ବସ ଚଳାଚଳ ଭଳି ପଦକ୍ଷେପ ସହରୀ ପରିବହନ ବ୍ୟବସ୍ଥାରେ ଏକ ବୈପ୍ଳବିକ ପରିବର୍ତ୍ତନ ଆଣିବ। ନାରୀ ଶକ୍ତିର ସହଭାଗିତାରେ ଆରମ୍ଭ ହୋଇଥିବା ଏହି ସେବା ଛାତ୍ରଛାତ୍ରୀ ଓ ଶ୍ରମିକମାନଙ୍କ ପାଇଁ ବେଶ୍ ସହାୟକ ହେବ। ପରିବେଶ ଦୃଷ୍ଟିକୋଣରୁ ଏହି ଇ-ବସ୍ ସେବା ବାର୍ଷିକ ପ୍ରାୟ ୩୩୦ ରୁ ୩୯୦ ଟନ୍ କାର୍ବନ ନିର୍ଗମନ ହ୍ରାସ କରିବାରେ ସହାୟକ… pic.twitter.com/VnSLYBSF27

— CMO Odisha (@CMO_Odisha) April 29, 2026

The initiative is expected to significantly improve daily commuting for students, workers, and the general public by offering a cleaner, more efficient, and reliable mode of transport. The programme also highlights the growing role of women in public service delivery, reflecting an inclusive approach to development.

Officials stated that the introduction of e-buses will contribute to reducing pollution levels, with an estimated annual reduction of around 330 to 390 tonnes of carbon emissions. This aligns with the state’s broader focus on green initiatives and sustainable urban planning.

In addition to the transport rollout, several development projects have been inaugurated and new initiatives announced to strengthen infrastructure and support economic growth in the region. These efforts are expected to enhance connectivity, improve public services, and create new opportunities at the district level.

The Chief Minister emphasised that the coming decade will be critical for Odisha’s growth, describing it as a period of commitment towards building a prosperous state by 2036. He noted that districts like Kendujhar will play a vital role in achieving this vision through continued development and infrastructure expansion.

The e-bus initiative is part of a larger strategy to modernise urban infrastructure, reduce environmental impact, and improve the quality of life for citizens.

Formula 1 driver Romain Grosjean partners with GPEI to ‘finish the race’ against Polio for World Immunisation Week

Diversions Announced to Ensure Security and Smooth Traffic Movement on April 30

Bhubaneswar, Apr 29 (BNP): The Commissionerate Police, Bhubaneswar-Cuttack has issued a traffic advisory imposing restrictions on several key routes in the city on April 30, in view of the one-day special session of the 17th Odisha Legislative Assembly.

The restrictions will be effective from 7 am and are intended to ensure smooth traffic flow and maintain security in and around the Assembly complex and nearby government institutions.

According to the advisory, vehicles moving from Housing Board Square towards Rabindra Mandap will be diverted at Keshari Talkies Square. Traffic from AG Square towards PMG will be rerouted via Jaydev Bhawan and IG Park Road.

Similarly, vehicles from the Master Canteen area heading towards PMG will be diverted through alternative routes near Lower PMG. Traffic from 120 Infantry Battalion Square will not be permitted towards Rabindra Mandap and will instead be redirected towards Power House Square.

Vehicles coming from Lok Bhawan Square towards MLA Colony and Rabindra Mandap will be diverted at 120 Battalion Square towards Sastrinagar Square.

Emergency services such as ambulances, fire services, and police vehicles will be exempted from these restrictions. Vehicles authorised for entry into the State Assembly, Lok Seva Bhawan, and other government offices in the area will also be allowed passage.

The police have requested citizens to cooperate with the traffic arrangements and plan their travel accordingly to avoid inconvenience during the session.

India and UK Defence Ties Strengthen During CDS Gen Anil Chauhan’s UK Visit

New Delhi, Apr 29 (BNP): The visit of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan to the United Kingdom has reinforced growing defence cooperation between India and the UK, marking a significant step in strengthening strategic ties between the two nations, according to the British High Commission.

The discussions during the visit focused on enhancing bilateral defence collaboration, improving military-to-military engagement, and identifying new areas of cooperation in training, capability development, and strategic coordination.

Officials said the engagement reflects the shared commitment of both countries to address evolving global and regional security challenges through closer defence partnerships and regular high-level exchanges.

The British High Commission noted that the India–UK defence relationship continues to expand across key areas such as maritime security, defence technology cooperation, and joint training initiatives.

The visit is seen as part of ongoing efforts to deepen the India–UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with both sides aiming to strengthen operational coordination and long-term defence collaboration.

Overall, the engagement highlights the continued momentum in bilateral defence ties and the mutual focus on building a more robust and future-ready security partnership.

Bird Population Study Aims to Strengthen Conservation Efforts in Coastal Mangroves

Kendrapara, Apr 29 (BNP): A census of the Mangrove Pitta was conducted across five ranges of the Rajnagar Mangrove Forest Division, covering important coastal mangrove habitats in Kendrapara and Jagatsinghpur districts.

According to Divisional Forest Officer Vardhraj Gaonkar, the survey was carried out using both direct and indirect observation methods across multiple mangrove patches in the region. The exercise was conducted to assess the presence and distribution of the species in its natural habitat.

A total of 70 trained enumerators, organised into 35 teams, participated in the census exercise conducted on Sunday.

The primary objective of the study was to collect scientific data on the bird’s distribution, habitat conditions, breeding patterns, and behavioural traits. The survey will also serve as a baseline for future population monitoring and conservation planning.

Officials said such assessments are important for understanding biodiversity trends in fragile mangrove ecosystems and for strengthening long-term conservation strategies in coastal Odisha.

The data collected is expected to support ongoing efforts to protect wetland and mangrove habitats that are crucial for a variety of bird species, including the Mangrove Pitta.

Global Supply Risks May Increase Pressure on India’s LPG Costs

New Delhi, April 29: India’s LPG under-recoveries are expected to rise sharply and could reach nearly ₹80,000 crore in FY2027, driven by volatility in global energy markets and ongoing disruptions in West Asia, according to a recent assessment by ICRA.

The report notes that geopolitical tensions in key oil and gas-producing regions have tightened global supply conditions, leading to higher import costs for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). This is expected to widen the gap between import prices and regulated domestic retail prices.

Under-recoveries occur when fuel retailers sell LPG at government-controlled prices that are lower than their actual procurement cost. When international prices rise, the financial burden on oil marketing companies increases.

ICRA highlighted that continued instability in global energy supply chains may keep LPG pricing under pressure in the medium term, especially if crude oil prices remain elevated.

Despite global uncertainties, domestic LPG demand in India remains steady, supported by household consumption and policy measures aimed at ensuring affordable access to clean cooking fuel.

Analysts said future trends in LPG under-recoveries will depend on global crude movements, geopolitical developments, and adjustments in domestic pricing mechanisms.

Overall, the outlook indicates continued fiscal pressure in the energy sector, with LPG cost gaps likely to remain a key concern for policymakers.

Ganga Expressway Set to Drive Growth, Connectivity and Industrial Expansion in Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh, Apr 29 (BNP): The Ganga Expressway, a major infrastructure project in the state, is expected to significantly improve connectivity while supporting industrial growth, logistics development, agricultural marketing, and regional economic balance.

The 594-km expressway connects western and eastern Uttar Pradesh through a high-speed corridor designed to reduce travel time, improve transport efficiency, and strengthen economic linkages across districts.

 Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the expressway will play an important role in accelerating development and improving connectivity between rural and urban areas. He described it as a key project that will benefit farmers, youth, and entrepreneurs by improving access and reducing travel distances.

The expressway passes through 12 districts, including Meerut, Hapur, Bulandshahr, Amroha, Sambhal, Badaun, Shahjahanpur, Hardoi, Unnao, Rae Bareli, Pratapgarh, and Prayagraj. It is designed for high-speed travel of up to 120 kmph and is expected to make movement of people and goods faster and safer.

Modern safety and traffic systems have been installed along the corridor, including intelligent traffic management systems, CCTV surveillance, emergency response units, ambulance services, and highway patrol teams.

A 3.2-km airstrip near Shahjahanpur has also been developed for emergency landing of Air Force aircraft, adding strategic importance to the project.

Integrated Manufacturing and Logistics Clusters (IMLCs) are being developed along the expressway to support warehouses, cold storage facilities, and food processing units. These are expected to attract investment and generate employment opportunities.

The expressway is also linked with other major road corridors in the state, creating a wider expressway network that will improve regional connectivity and support economic growth.

Officials said the project will help boost investment, improve agricultural market access, strengthen logistics, and create both direct and indirect employment opportunities across Uttar Pradesh.

Bihar Shocker: Executive Officer Shot Dead, Municipal Chairman Critical in Brazen Bhagalpur Office Attack!

Bhagalpur, Apr 29 (BNP): In a brazen daylight attack, armed assailants stormed the office of the Sultanganj Nagar Parishad in Bihar’s Bhagalpur district on Tuesday, killing Executive Officer Krishna Bhushan Kumar and critically injuring Municipal Chairman Raj Kumar Guddu.

The shocking incident occurred at around 4:00 PM, when both officials were in their respective chambers attending official work. According to eyewitnesses, a group of three to five armed criminals arrived on motorcycles, entered the civic office premises, and opened indiscriminate fire, triggering panic among staff members and visitors.

Eyewitness Ranjit Kumar said several people, including standing committee members, were present inside the office when the attackers barged in and began shooting randomly. Both injured officials were immediately rushed to hospital by staff and locals.

Senior Superintendent of Police Pramod Yadav said Executive Officer Krishna Bhushan Kumar displayed exceptional courage by confronting the attackers and attempting to stop them. CCTV footage reportedly shows him struggling with the assailants before being shot multiple times.

Kumar was hit by three bullets and succumbed to his injuries while being taken to Mayaganj Hospital. Municipal Chairman Raj Kumar Guddu remains in critical condition and is undergoing treatment.

Police suspect the incident may be linked to long-standing personal rivalry within the local municipal administration, though all angles are being investigated.

The SSP confirmed that special teams have been formed to identify and arrest those responsible. CCTV footage has reportedly captured at least two of the attackers.

The incident has sparked sharp political reactions, with Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav criticising the Nitish Kumar government over deteriorating law and order in the state.

Heavy police deployment, barricading, and additional reinforcements have been put in place across Sultanganj to prevent any escalation of tension.

UP CM Announces 1 Lakh Police Recruitments; Appointment Letters Issued to 936 Candidates

New Delhi, Apr 29: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday gave a good news to the youth. Encouraging them, he said, “Capable, competent and self-motivated young people want to become part of the UP Police force, and for this the Uttar Pradesh Police Recruitment and Promotion Board will provide good opportunities.”

He added, the board is going to carry out around one lakh new recruitments this year. In the last 3 days, examinations were also conducted for recruitment of 41,000 personnel in UP Home Guards. Recruitment processes for Civil Police, SI, Home Guards and others have gained pace.

Chief Minister distributed appointment letters to 936 Head Operators/Head Operators (Mechanical) selected in the Uttar Pradesh Police Telecommunication Department at Indira Gandhi Pratishthan. A short film based on the Police Telecommunication Department was also screened during the program.

CM told the successful candidates that everyone wanted recruitment to be conducted honestly. The double engine government has created an environment where recruitment has been conducted in a fair and transparent manner. Now it is your responsibility to serve through the UP Police with clean intent, honesty and transparency and fulfil your duties towards the nation. 

He continues by saying, when every citizen performs their duties honestly in their respective field, the vision of a developed India by Narendra Modi will be realized. No individual, caste, religion or personal interest can be above the nation.

CM Yogi added by saying, “The fairness with which the police recruitment process has been completed today was not possible nine years ago. Earlier even the process could not be completed smoothly. There used to be transactions and discrimination in recruitment, but now no recommendation or money is required. Recruitment is conducted purely on merit, capability and reservation rules.”

He further added, an environment has been created in the state where no one can stop you from progressing if you have the ability. Now you must also work with integrity. Uttar Pradesh, once considered a BIMARU state, is now contributing to India’s development through collective efforts.

CM said, just recently, passing-out parades of 60,000 police constables were held simultaneously at 112 centres across the state, meaning 60,000 constables have joined the UP Police force and will now serve actively in the field. In the last 9 years, more than 2.20 lakh personnel have been recruited in Uttar Pradesh Police, while many states do not even have such total strength.

He told the newly selected candidates that they have the opportunity to serve a population of 25 crore through the largest civil police force in the country and through the telecommunication branch.

He informed, “Earlier there was a crisis regarding training capacity, but now there is no shortage of space. Before 2017, only 3,000 personnel could be trained at a time, but in 2025, 60,244 constables were trained simultaneously in UP centres. This shows that with clear intent, clear policy and strong will, results can be achieved. After the passing-out parade, constables are being deployed in districts, and now training for you will begin at these centres.”

M also said, UP is the first state to include more than 500 skilled athletes in the police force. As a result, UP Police wins more medals in national and international sports events compared to other states, showcasing its strength.

CM Yogi added, “Infrastructure facilities of the police have been strengthened. In 2017, 10 districts did not even have police lines, and many police stations did not have their own buildings. There was a lack of basic facilities and barracks. Today, in 55 districts, high-rise buildings provide barracks and residential facilities for police personnel. Model police stations and new fire stations are being established. SSF, SDRF and three new women PAC battalions have been formed. Three new laws were implemented in July 2024, but UP had already prepared in advance.”

He added, the state forensic institute is functioning successfully. Twelve A-grade FSL units are operational and six are under construction. Two mobile forensic labs are working in every district, with trained technicians deployed for sample collection.

CM stated, “The police is not only maintaining law and order and making the state free from riots and mafia, but is also indirectly contributing to India’s economic growth. Rule of law is the first guarantee of development. With law and order established, investors from across the country and world are coming to UP, enabling the development of modern infrastructure across the state.”

CM Yogi told the 936 newly selected candidates that they will strengthen the communication unit. Their upcoming 8-month training will be crucial.

He advised them to stay physically fit, as physical fitness ensures mental fitness, enabling honest service to society and the nation.

Chief Minister said, communication is a crucial part of the force. The stronger it is, the more effective the police becomes in taking precise action and providing relief to citizens. UP Police’s telecommunication wing has progressed beyond basic walkie-talkies. During training, candidates will learn modern smart policing systems and later play a key role in implementing them effectively in the field.

The event was attended by Finance Minister Suresh Khanna, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Sanjay Prasad, Director General of Police Rajeev Krishna, DG (Telecom) Ashutosh Pandey, Chairman of UP Police Recruitment and Promotion Board S B Shirodkar, Additional Director General (Headquarters) Sanjeev Gupta and others.