Category Archives: News

Payal Nag Brings Glory with Gold at World Para Archery Series

Apr 6: Payal Nag has made the state and the nation proud by securing a gold medal at the World Para Archery Series held in Bangkok. Her remarkable achievement stands as a testament to her dedication, resilience, and hard work.

This victory is not just a personal milestone for Payal, but also an inspiring moment for countless aspiring athletes across the state. Her journey reflects determination and the spirit to overcome challenges, motivating others to pursue excellence in sports.

With this success, Payal Nag has further elevated Odisha’s presence on the global sporting stage. It is hoped that she will continue her winning momentum and achieve even greater heights in the future. Wishing her continued success and a bright sporting career ahead.

Novotel Hyderabad & HICC Win Best Convention Centre Award 2026

Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & HICC Wins ‘Best Convention Centre – Hyderabad, Telangana’ at FHRAI Wedding & MICE Tourism Awards 2026

Hyderabad, Apr 06: Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC) has been honoured with the prestigious ‘Best Convention Centre – Hyderabad, Telangana’ at the FHRAI Wedding & MICE Tourism Awards, held on 28th March 2026.

Organised by the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), the awards were presented at the Wedding & MICE Tourism Conclave in Lucknow, a prominent industry platform that brings together hospitality leaders, policymakers, and global stakeholders. The initiative aims to recognise excellence, innovation, and leadership across India’s rapidly growing wedding and MICE tourism sector, while strengthening the country’s position as a global hub for events and destination weddings.

This recognition underscores the property’s continued excellence in delivering world-class conventions, large-scale events, and exceptional guest experiences. Known for its expansive event spaces, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and seamless service, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & HICC has consistently hosted high-profile national and international events, setting benchmarks in the MICE and hospitality landscape. Its strategic location, integrated facilities, and commitment to excellence continue to make it a preferred choice for corporates, event planners, and global organisations.

Speaking on the achievement, Rubin Cherian, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre & HICC said,

“We are truly honoured to receive this recognition from FHRAI. This award is a testament to our team’s dedication, passion, and commitment to delivering exceptional experiences. We remain focused on elevating the standards of MICE and wedding tourism while creating memorable moments for our guests.”

This recognition further strengthens the property’s reputation as a premier destination for large-scale conventions, weddings, and bespoke events, contributing significantly to Hyderabad’s growing prominence as a hub for business and leisure tourism.

Bhilwara Sur Sangam 2026 Culminates in a Night of Captivating Performances

NEW DELHI, Apr 6: The 13th edition of Bhilwara Sur Sangam, the flagship Indian classical music festival presented by the LNJ Bhilwara Group, concluded on April 5 at Kamani Auditorium, New Delhi, with an evening of profound musical brilliance. Following a resounding opening, the second day drew an equally enthusiastic gathering of music lovers, connoisseurs, and cultural patrons, bringing the two-day celebration to a memorable close.

The evening commenced with a captivating sitar recital by Shri Samanway Sarkar, whose performance reflected both technical finesse and emotive depth. With a command over raga exposition and a nuanced sense of rhythm, his rendition created an engaging musical narrative that resonated deeply with the audience.

Sharing his thoughts after the performance, Shri Samanway Sarkar said, “Performing at Bhilwara Sur Sangam is always special, as the audience here listens with deep understanding and openness. It allows an artist to truly explore and present the soul of a raga.” He further added, “The energy and attentiveness of the listeners tonight made this recital a deeply fulfilling experience for me.”

The highlight of the evening was a deeply evocative Hindustani classical vocal (khayal) performance by the legendary Pt. Mukul Shivputra. Known for his introspective and spiritually charged style, his rendition transported listeners into a meditative soundscape, marked by intricate improvisations and profound emotional intensity. His performance stood as a powerful reminder of the transcendental nature of Indian classical music.

Reflecting on his performance, Pt. Mukul Shivputra shared, “Music, for me, is a journey inward—it is not just performance but a form of sadhana. Platforms like Bhilwara Sur Sangam provide the space for that deeper connection to unfold.” He added, “The silence and receptivity of the audience here create an atmosphere where music can truly breathe and evolve.”

The second day’s performances not only upheld the artistic excellence established on the opening day but also reinforced the festival’s commitment to presenting maestros who embody the depth and diversity of India’s musical traditions.

Speaking on the successful culmination of the festival, Shri Ravi Jhunjhunwala, Chairman, LNJ Bhilwara Group, said, “Bhilwara Sur Sangam continues to be a celebration of India’s rich musical heritage and a platform that brings together exceptional artistry and appreciative audiences. The overwhelming response over both days reaffirms our commitment to preserving and promoting classical music for future generations.”

He further added, “This festival is not just an event, but a legacy we are proud to nurture and grow with each passing year. It is especially meaningful to see the next generation, including my son, actively carrying this vision forward, ensuring that our cultural roots remain strong and relevant.”

With a strong audience presence across both days, Bhilwara Sur Sangam 2026 once again highlighted the enduring appeal of classical music and its ability to create meaningful cultural connections. 

Organized annually by the LNJ Bhilwara Group, Bhilwara Sur Sangam remains a significant cultural initiative dedicated to nurturing and promoting India’s classical arts while fostering deeper engagement between artists and audiences.

Anand Vihar Station Unveils State-of-the-Art EV Charging Hub

New Delhi is taking a significant step toward cleaner, greener transportation with the launch of a new electric vehicle (EV) charging hub at Anand Vihar Namo Bharat Station. Designed to accommodate up to 10 vehicles charging simultaneously, the hub addresses one of the growing concerns of EV owners – accessibility and convenience.

The initiative is part of the city’s broader push toward sustainable mobility. Officials highlighted that the hub not only supports the rising number of electric vehicles but also contributes to reducing urban pollution, offering commuters a practical, eco-friendly alternative for daily travel.

With India’s EV market expanding rapidly, infrastructure like the Anand Vihar charging hub is expected to play a crucial role in encouraging more people to switch to electric vehicles. For residents and commuters, this hub provides a glimpse into a future where electric mobility is both efficient and widely accessible.

Rini Sampath Becomes First South Asian Candidate on DC Mayoral Ballot

Washington, D.C. – Rini Sampath, originally from Theni, Tamil Nadu, has become the first South Asian candidate to appear on the Democratic primary ballot for Mayor of Washington, D.C.

The 31-year-old government contractor moved to the United States at the age of seven and has been a resident of Washington, D.C. for over a decade. Sampath’s campaign focuses on improving city services under the theme “Fix the Basics”.

“I’m not a politician. I don’t owe any special interest groups,” Sampath said. “It’s time for an outsider focused on making our city work better for everyone.”

Washington, D.C. is largely dominated by the Democratic Party and has never elected a Republican mayor since the position became an elected office in 1975. The city is currently administered by an elected mayor and a 13-member District Council.

Sampath’s historic candidacy marks a milestone for South Asian representation in local politics and highlights the growing participation of diverse communities in Washington, D.C.’s governance.

Delhi-NCR Shaken by Moderate Earthquake

Late Friday night, a moderate earthquake shook Delhi-NCR and several parts of North India, sending residents rushing out of their homes and offices in alarm. Thankfully, no casualties have been reported so far.

The Meteorological Centre in Srinagar confirmed that the quake measured 5.9 on the Richter scale. It struck at 9:42 pm IST, with its epicenter in Afghanistan at a depth of 150 km.

Tremors were felt across Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad, Faridabad, and surrounding regions of Uttar Pradesh and Haryana. Many residents reported sudden jolts while sitting, along with swaying furniture and hanging objects. Although the shaking lasted only a few seconds, it was strong enough to be clearly felt indoors.

In residential neighborhoods, people stepped out as a safety precaution, while office workers temporarily evacuated buildings. Crowds gathered in open spaces, awaiting updates from authorities.

Delhi-NCR falls under Seismic Zone IV, a high-risk area for earthquakes. Even moderate tremors from distant epicenters can be strongly felt, often triggering swift public response.

Social media quickly filled with accounts of the tremors, with residents describing the experience as sudden and unsettling. Many noted shaking of ceiling fans, furniture, and other household items, while some felt vibrations even while lying down.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and have advised residents to stay calm, follow safety guidelines, and remain alert for potential aftershocks.

Puri Railway Station Upgrades Completed Ahead of Rath Yatra, ECoR Records Strong Freight Growth

April 4: Renovation work at Puri Railway Station is expected to be completed ahead of the upcoming Rath Yatraath festiva, ensuring improved facilities for thousands of pilgrims visiting the temple town.

East Coast Railway (ECoR) General Manager Parameswar Funkwal confirmed that the main station building is complete, with platform upgrades and boundary works underway. These improvements aim to offer a comfortable and efficient experience for visitors during the busy festival season.

Pic Credit: Pexel

Infrastructure development across Odisha is progressing rapidly. The Khurda Road–Bolangir railway line is expected to be operational by December 2026, with all seven tunnels completed and major bridge work in its final stage. Other key projects, including the redevelopment of Bhubaneswar Railway Station, are also advancing steadily.

ECoR continues to excel in freight operations. In the 2025–26 financial year, it handled 544.82 million tonnes of cargo, generating over ₹32,700 crore in revenue, with ₹29,456 crore from freight alone. For the seventh consecutive year, the zone crossed 200 million tonnes of freight loading, achieving a record 286.26 million tonnes this year, while freight unloading also increased to 258.56 million tonnes.

With these upgrades and strong operational performance, East Coast Railway is well-prepared to manage the rising demand for both passenger and freight services efficiently.

IRCTC Launches Bharat–Nepal Faith Tour to Boost Pilgrimage Travel

New Delhi: The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has launched a special “Bharat–Nepal Faith Tour” aimed at strengthening cultural and religious connections between India and Nepal.

The tour will run for 10 days and 9 nights, starting from April 21, 2026. It will be operated through the Bharat Gaurav Deluxe AC Tourist Train, offering यात्रियों a comfortable and organised pilgrimage experience.

Pic Credit: Pexel

The journey begins in Delhi and will cover major destinations including Ayodhya, Varanasi, Janakpur, Kathmandu, and Pokhara before returning to Delhi. Passengers can also board or deboard at several stations along the route such as Ghaziabad, Kanpur, and Lucknow.

The itinerary includes visits to prominent religious sites such as Ram Janmabhoomi, Hanuman Garhi, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi, the Ram–Janaki Temple in Janakpur, and Pashupatinath Temple, along with Boudhanath Stupa. Key attractions in Pokhara are also part of the tour.

The package includes AC train travel, hotel accommodation (3-star or similar), meals, local transport, guides, and travel insurance. Around 150 seats are available across different AC classes.

Ticket prices range from ₹73,000 to ₹1,03,000 depending on the class. The cost already includes a subsidy under the Bharat Gaurav scheme.

This initiative is expected to make pilgrimage travel easier and more accessible while promoting shared cultural heritage between the two neighbouring countries.

New Bill Eases Rules for Citizens and MSMEs

In a significant push toward simplifying governance, the government has introduced a reform-focused Bill that seeks to decriminalise a range of minor offences and replace them with more practical, citizen-friendly provisions. The move reflects a broader effort to create a fairer and more balanced compliance system across the country.

I extend my sincere gratitude to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi Ji for the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026. This landmark reform marks a historic shift toward trust-based governance, decriminalising minor offences and replacing them with rational,… pic.twitter.com/JfApBCeByZ

— Mohan Charan Majhi (@MohanMOdisha) April 3, 2026

The proposed changes are expected to bring real relief to ordinary citizens. Instead of facing criminal proceedings for minor procedural lapses, individuals will now encounter a more administrative and less punitive approach. Measures such as civil penalties replacing criminal charges, longer timelines for accident compensation claims, and simplified compliance rules in areas like municipal regulations and transport are designed to make everyday processes less stressful and more accessible.

For small businesses, especially MSMEs, the impact could be substantial. The Bill shifts away from harsh punishments like imprisonment and introduces alternatives such as warnings, improvement notices, and proportionate financial penalties. By removing outdated and redundant legal provisions, the reform aims to reduce compliance pressure and foster a more supportive business environment.

Overall, the initiative is seen as a step toward improving ease of doing business while encouraging entrepreneurship. By reducing fear of criminal liability for minor issues, the government hopes to create a system that is both growth-oriented and inclusive, supporting long-term economic development.

The Easter Refresh: Ditch the Sugar Rush and Embrace the Wellness Sip

As Easter celebrations embrace themes of renewal and togetherness, a growing shift toward healthier lifestyle choices is influencing what people serve at the festive table especially when it comes to beverages. Moving beyond traditional sugary cordials and fizzy sodas, hosts are increasingly opting for refreshing, wellness-focused drink alternatives that complement both the occasion and well-being.

This Easter, nutrition-conscious choices are redefining festive indulgence, with options that are not only flavourful but also functional.

Hydration Meets Elegance

Infused water and herbal coolers are emerging as popular zero-sugar options. Flavoured naturally with ingredients like cucumber, mint, citrus, watermelon, and basil, these beverages offer a light, refreshing experience while doubling as visually appealing centrepieces when served with edible flowers and herbs.

Natural Energy Boosters

Coconut water continues to be a preferred choice for its natural electrolyte content and hydrating properties. Whether served on its own or enhanced with lime and mint, it offers a subtle sweetness without added sugars, making it ideal for long festive gatherings.

Antioxidant-Rich Alternatives

Chilled Green tea coolers, lightly sweetened with honey and infused with ingredients like ginger or cinnamon, provide a gentle antioxidant boost. Easy to prepare in advance, they serve as a refreshing and health-conscious option post-meal.

The Rise of Functional Fizz

Among the standout trends this season is Kombucha, a lightly sparkling, fermented tea known for its gut-friendly benefits. Once a niche product, kombucha has entered the mainstream in 2026, offering a balanced alternative to sugary sodas. Its natural tang and carbonation make it a versatile addition to festive spreads—ideal as a welcome drink, palate cleanser, or post-dessert refresher.

Brands like Tetley Kombucha, available in flavours such as Ginger Lemon and Peach, are gaining popularity for their consistent quality and inclusion of prebiotic fibre, further enhancing their appeal among health-conscious consumers.

A New Kind of Celebration

As Easter traditions evolve, the focus is shifting toward mindful indulgence—where taste, presentation, and wellness go hand in hand. By incorporating healthier beverage choices, hosts can elevate their celebrations while supporting better hydration, digestion, and overall well-being.

This Easter, let your drinks reflect the spirit of renewal—refreshing, nourishing, and thoughtfully crafted for every guest at the table.