Category Archives: News

Indian Railways Achieves Record Freight, Passenger Growth in FY26

New Delhi, April 2026: Indian Railways has reported robust growth in both passenger traffic and freight operations for the fiscal year 2025–26, underscoring its role as a vital backbone of the nation’s transport and logistics network.

Passenger Traffic and Revenue Surge
During FY26, Indian Railways carried 741 crore passengers, marking a 3.5% increase from 716 crore in FY25. Passenger revenue also grew significantly, reaching approximately ₹80,000 crore, a 6% rise compared to the previous year. The figures highlight the growing reliance on rail travel across urban and rural India, reflecting both convenience and affordability for commuters.

Freight Operations Set New Records
Freight traffic hit a new milestone of 1,670 million tonnes (MT), up 3.25% from FY25, accompanied by a 4.5% increase in wagons handled, from 2.79 crore to 2.91 crore. This growth underscores Indian Railways’ efficiency and its critical role in delivering cost-effective logistics solutions for bulk commodities.

Key Commodities Driving Growth
Significant growth was recorded in sectors like fertilisers (13.5%) and pig iron & finished steel (13.1%), reflecting rising industrial and agricultural demand. Infrastructure-related commodities, including iron ore (6.7%) and cement (4.7%), also saw strong movement, supporting ongoing construction and development projects nationwide.

Balanced Regional Growth
Several railway zones contributed to this growth, with South Western Railway leading at 14.9%, followed by North Central (12.6%), East Coast (10.4%), and West Central (10.1%). Other zones also recorded positive gains, reflecting widespread regional development and improved freight-handling capabilities across the country.

Freight Revenue Highlights
Freight earnings reached approximately ₹1,77,754 crore, up 1.44% from FY25. Iron ore emerged as the top revenue contributor, followed by cement, pig iron & steel, fertilisers, food grains, and mineral oil, demonstrating the critical importance of railways in supporting industrial supply chains and trade.

Driving Connectivity and Economic Growth
Indian Railways’ achievements in FY26 highlight its dual role: ensuring safe, reliable mobility for millions of passengers and serving as an efficient logistics partner for industries. With consistent operational improvements and capacity expansion, Railways continues to be a key driver of economic growth and national connectivity.

PM Modi Launches India’s First Fully Digital Census 2027 by Completing Self‑Enumeration

New Delhi, Apr 2: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has completed his self‑enumeration, marking the official launch of India’s first fully digital Census 2027. This year’s census introduces a modern approach that allows households to submit their information online before the traditional house‑to‑house surveys begin.

The first phase focuses on collecting detailed information about households and living conditions. Citizens across selected states and Union Territories can now use the digital portal to provide their data, while field enumerators will follow up with in-person visits to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Highlighting the importance of public participation, the Prime Minister emphasized that the self-enumeration facility empowers citizens to contribute directly to this historic exercise. He urged all households to take part and complete their details digitally, ensuring efficient data collection.

Census 2027 represents a significant shift from paper-based methods to a digitally driven system. Officials note that this approach will improve accuracy, reduce manual workload, and accelerate the processing of data. This initiative is one of the largest administrative exercises in the world, covering millions of households nationwide.

The digital census is expected to enhance the quality and timeliness of demographic data, supporting better policy-making, planning, and governance in India for years to come.

Odia Samaj Tripura Commemorates Utkal Dibas with Cultural Splendor and a Renewed Commitment to Social Impact

Odia Samaj Tripura marked the 90th Utkal Dibas (Odisha Day) alongside the 16th Foundation Anniversary of the Samaj with remarkable enthusiasm and cultural vibrancy at the Muktadhara Auditorium, Agartala. The grand celebration stood as a testament to the enduring cultural ties between Odisha and Tripura, resonating with the patriotic spirit of “Vande Utkal Janani.”

The event was graced by Swami Amartyananda, Secretary of Ramakrishna Mission, Dhaleswar as the Chief Guest. In his keynote address, he underscored the significance of spiritual values, ethical living, and collective responsibility as pillars for building a harmonious and resilient society.

Sanjeev Kumar Janjua, Asset Manager of  ONGC Tripura, attended as the Guest of Honour. Acknowledging ONGC’s steadfast support since 2011, the Samaj proposed a forward-looking collaboration to channel CSR initiatives into impactful sectors such as healthcare access, digital education, and sustainable livelihood generation particularly focusing on tea garden communities across Tripura.

The event was also graced by the distinguished Odia personalities serving in Tripura like Sarat Kumar Patra, Director of NIT Agartala, Dr. Hemant Kumar Pratihari, Director of NFSU & FSL and others. Dr. Pratihari announced financial assistance to the meritorious tea garden students as a token of inspiration.

The coveted “Priya Odia–2026” award was conferred to Dr. Sarat Kumar Das for his unwavering dedication and outstanding service, symbolizing humility, inspiration, and a renewed commitment to collective progress.

The audience was enthralled by an exceptional cultural performance by a renowned troupe from the Sanskruti Bharati Dance Academy, deputed by the Government of Odisha as well as the family members and children of Odia Samaj showcased their beautiful performances on richness of Odissi, Sambalpuri, and traditional folk dance forms, evoking deep cultural pride.

In a heartening display of unity, members of the Odia community from various tea garden regions across Tripura participated enthusiastically, presenting vibrant folk performances. 

The annual souvenir “Chakadola” was ceremoniously released by the distinguished guests during the event. The publication encapsulates literary expressions, cultural reflections, and chronicles the inspiring journey of Odia Samaj Tripura over the years.

The President of Odia Samaj Tripura, Bishnu Charan Pati, and the Secretary, Samir Diabagh, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people of Tripura for their continued affection and “bhalobasha” towards the Odia community. They emphasized that the cultural and emotional bond between Odisha and Tripura continues to strengthen with each passing year.

The event concluded on a warm and celebratory note with traditional Odia cuisine being served to all participants and guests, further enriching the cultural experience and fostering a spirit of togetherness.

Premium Fuel Prices Surge Amid Global Supply Concerns

Weak Budget Planning Leaves Large Funds Unspent in Odisha

A recent report has raised serious concerns over the quality of budget planning by the Odisha government, pointing to a significant gap between projected allocations and actual spending.

According to findings by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India, the state’s budget estimates have not been realistic, leading to consistent underutilization of allocated funds. While the government has been increasing its annual budget size, it has struggled to spend the funds effectively within the financial year.

Pic Credit: Pexel

For the 2024–25 financial year, the state initially proposed a budget of ₹2,75,613.86 crore. This was later increased with a supplementary allocation of ₹12,155.74 crore, taking the total budget to ₹2,87,769.60 crore. However, actual expenditure stood at ₹2,31,613.37 crore, leaving a substantial ₹56,156.23 crore unspent—about 19.5% of the total budget.

The report highlights that such a large gap reflects weaknesses in financial planning, execution, and monitoring. It also noted that departments failed to surrender unspent funds amounting to ₹2,815.91 crore, further indicating lapses in fiscal discipline.

The audit body emphasized that unrealistic projections and poor expenditure management are key reasons behind this trend. Experts suggest that better planning, timely implementation, and stronger oversight mechanisms are essential to ensure that public funds are utilized efficiently and effectively.

Odisha Celebrates Foundation Day 2026 with Vision for a Prosperous Future

Odisha marked its Statehood Day with pride and reflection at a state-level celebration held at the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology in Bhubaneswar. The event brought together officials, citizens, and dignitaries to honour the state’s rich history and cultural identity.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi highlighted Odisha’s unique legacy as India’s first linguistically formed state. He extended warm greetings to Odias living both within the state and across the globe, acknowledging their contribution to preserving the state’s heritage and identity.

Looking ahead, the Chief Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to transforming Odisha into a developed and prosperous state by 2036, when it will complete 100 years of its formation. He described the coming decade as a crucial period of determination and collective effort, urging citizens to actively participate in building a stronger and more inclusive Odisha.

He also stressed the importance of balancing development with the preservation of Odia identity and culture, ensuring that progress does not come at the cost of heritage.

As part of the celebrations, a special photo exhibition showcasing Odisha’s journey and achievements was organized by the Information and Public Relations Department. The exhibition was inaugurated by the Chief Minister, who later toured the display and appreciated the visual documentation of the state’s evolution.

The event reflected a blend of pride in the past and a forward-looking vision, reinforcing Odisha’s commitment to growth while staying rooted in its cultural values.

Bhubaneswar Opens Global Visa Centre for Easy Travel

Bhubaneswar has taken a significant step toward improving access to international travel services with the launch of a Global Visa Application Centre in the city. The new facility is set to simplify the visa application process for residents of Odisha, who previously had to travel to metro cities for similar services.

The centre will initially provide visa application support for a wide range of countries, including the United Kingdom, Austria, Switzerland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Estonia, Egypt, Morocco, and Malta. By bringing multiple services under one roof, the facility aims to reduce both the time and effort required for applicants.

Officials say the centre is designed with a focus on efficiency and convenience, offering streamlined procedures and quicker processing timelines. Applicants will benefit from organized documentation support, biometric services, and guidance throughout the application process.

The move is being seen as part of a broader effort to strengthen public service infrastructure in Odisha and make global opportunities more accessible to its people. With easier access to visa services, more residents are expected to explore opportunities in education, tourism, and business abroad.

The launch of this centre marks another step in positioning Bhubaneswar as a growing hub for modern services and international connectivity.

Amaravati Bill Clears Lok Sabha; Nara Lokesh to Attend RS Session, Meet PM & HM

Mumbai, April, 2 : In a landmark development, the Government of India has passed the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation  Bill, 2026 in the Lok Sabha after detailed deliberations, that will formally grant statutory recognition to Amaravati as the capital of Andhra Pradesh.

The Bill is now scheduled to be taken up for discussion and passage in the Rajya Sabha tomorrow, marking the final legislative step toward establishing Amaravati as the sole capital of the State.

During the Lok Sabha proceedings, leaders representing the TDP-led NDA government in Andhra Pradesh strongly advocated for the Bill. Notably, MoS Rural Development and Communication Dr. Chandrashekar Pemmasani, TDP MP Appalanaidu, BJP MP C. M. Ramesh, BJP MP Daggubati Purandeswari, and JSP MP Vallabhaneni Balashowry spoke in support of Amaravati as the capital.

In contrast, YSRCP MP Midhun Reddy opposed the Bill on behalf of the YSR Congress Party, following which YSRCP MPs staged a walkout from Parliament.

Beyond the NDA alliance, several other parties extended their support to the Bill, including the Indian National Congress  Samajwadi Party (SP), Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar), Shiv Sena Shiv Sena  and Shiromani Akali Dal reflecting broad political consensus across party lines in favor of Amaravati.

Minister Nara Lokesh will be present in New Delhi tomorrow to witness the Rajya Sabha proceedings. During his visit, he is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and the Vice President of India and Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, C. P. Radhakrishnan, to convey the gratitude of the people of Andhra Pradesh.

The proposed amendment to Section 5 of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014 replaces the earlier provision of “a new capital” with “Amaravati shall be the new capital,” thereby embedding Amaravati firmly within the statutory framework. This legislative move follows the unanimous resolution passed by the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly on March 28, 2026, enabling the Bill’s introduction in Parliament.

The Government of Andhra Pradesh views this development as a defining milestone in the State’s post-2014 journey, one that restores institutional clarity, strengthens governance, and paves the way for Amaravati to emerge as India’s youngest world-class greenfield capital city.

Odisha Leads India’s Clean Energy Push with Forward Looking Green Hydrogen Policy

Odisha has taken a significant step toward a sustainable future by emerging as the first state in India to unveil a dedicated Green Hydrogen Policy. The move highlights the state’s strong commitment to clean energy adoption and reducing industrial carbon emissions.

During a high-level meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, along with representatives from the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and other key stakeholders, a clear roadmap for renewable energy expansion was discussed. The plan places special emphasis on green hydrogen production, floating solar projects, pumped storage systems, and advanced battery energy storage solutions.

This strategic initiative is expected to draw substantial investments into the state while boosting infrastructure designed to withstand natural disasters. It also aims to position Odisha as a leading destination for clean energy innovation in India.

With growing support from industry leaders, Odisha is steadily shaping its future as a hub for sustainable development and next-generation energy solutions.

GIVA Launches VEDA Bangalore’s Newest Premium Jewellery Destination

Bangalore, Apr 1:  GIVA, India’s leading fine jewellery brand, today marks a landmark moment with the launch of VEDA, a first-of-its-kind premium jewellery experience in Bangalore. More than a store, VEDA is a destination where heritage craftsmanship, ethical luxury, and deeply personal storytelling converge.

 Derived from the Sanskrit word for knowledge, VEDA embodies a commitment to conscious luxury. The brand stands at the confluence of ancient wisdom and modern values, bringing awareness, integrity, and intention to every piece it creates.

Step into a world where grand interiors are as thoughtfully curated as the collections they house. VEDA offers an immersive jewellery journey designed for those who seek more than adornment. They seek meaning. At the heart of VEDA is an exclusive private viewing room, where guests experience a personalised consultation away from the world, making every milestone feel truly ceremonial.

VEDA’s collections are built around life’s most significant moments, weddings, milestones, and timeless celebrations. The silver range spans Kundan, pearl, and temple collections, each rooted in craft traditions that have stood the test of time. In gold, VEDA offers pieces across the full spectrum of a woman’s life, from understated everyday wear to show-stopping occasion jewellery, alongside Polki and lab-grown diamond collections for those seeking something truly exceptional.

Every piece is ethically sourced, traceable from origin to creation, and backed by full certification of quality and authenticity. Lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds, but created with zero environmental impact.

VEDA offers 0% deduction on gold, ensuring customers receive the full value of their gold at the time of exchange, with complete transparency and no hidden costs.

Made to Order in 12–14 Days

VEDA’s signature Made-to-Order offering allows customers to commission bespoke jewellery crafted specifically for them, delivered in just 12 to 14 days. Each piece is handcrafted by master artisans who bring generations of skill to their work, honouring traditional techniques while embracing contemporary design.