Category Archives: News

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.

Utkal Divas 2026: A Tribute to Odisha’s Heritage, Unity, and Progress

Utkal Divas, also known as Odisha Foundation Day, is observed every year on April 1. This special day marks the formation of Odisha as a separate state and celebrates the unique language, culture, and identity of the Odia people.

In 2026, Utkal Divas falls on Wednesday, April 1. The day holds deep historical importance, as Odisha became the first Indian state to be formed on a linguistic basis, even before India gained independence.

The journey toward statehood was not easy. It was achieved through years of persistent efforts, movements, and sacrifices by visionary leaders and the people of the region, who sought recognition for their distinct language and cultural heritage. Their determination ultimately led to the creation of Odisha as a separate province in 1936.

Today, Utkal Divas is celebrated with great pride and enthusiasm across the state. The occasion is marked by cultural programs, traditional music and dance, parades, and various public events that showcase Odisha’s rich heritage.

Beyond celebration, the day serves as a reminder of the state’s inspiring past and encourages people to work towards a brighter future. It is a time to reflect on progress and renew the commitment to building a stronger and more prosperous Odisha.

Oil India Limited Partners with CSIR-IMMT to Boost Critical Minerals Research

Bhubaneswar, March 30: In a significant move to strengthen India’s strategic mineral ecosystem, Oil India Limited (OIL) on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the CSIR–Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (IMMT) to establish a Centre of Excellence for critical minerals.

The collaboration, formalized in Bhubaneswar, is aligned with the National Critical Mineral Mission under the Ministry of Mines and aims to enhance research, exploration, and processing of critical minerals, supporting the country’s self-reliance objectives.

Under this agreement, OIL will become the first “Industry Spoke” of CSIR-IMMT under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, creating a new model of partnership between India’s energy and mining sectors.

The MoU was signed by Saloma Yomdo, Director (Exploration & Development), Oil India Limited, and Ramanuj Narayan, Director of CSIR-IMMT, in the presence of OIL CMD Ranjit Rath. Senior officials from OIL and CSIR-IMMT scientists, including Kali Sanjay and Satyajit Rath, also attended the ceremony.

Speaking at the event, CMD Ranjit Rath emphasized that the partnership would expand OIL’s role beyond hydrocarbons, boosting its contribution to the National Critical Mineral Mission. He also highlighted the potential of artificial intelligence and machine learning in identifying mineral resources, noting that OIL has already pinpointed ten focus areas for technology-driven initiatives in consultation with the CSIR Director General.

Director Ramanuj Narayan underlined CSIR-IMMT’s expertise in research and technology solutions for the mining, minerals, and metals sectors, with a particular focus on critical minerals. He expressed optimism that the Centre of Excellence would drive innovation and support India’s long-term goals in mineral self-reliance.

This collaboration represents a strategic convergence of energy and mining expertise, aimed at strengthening India’s capabilities in critical mineral exploration and processing, while leveraging advanced technologies for sustainable resource development.

‘Odia Pakhya’ to Be Celebrated from April 1 to Showcase Odisha’s Culture and Heritage

The Government of Odisha will celebrate ‘Odia Pakhya’ from April 1 to April 14 with the aim of promoting the state’s rich cultural heritage, traditions, lifestyle, food, and attire on a wider platform.

Announcing the initiative at a press conference held at Sanskruti Bhawan, Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj said that a series of events will be organized across all districts of the state, including the capital city Bhubaneswar, with active participation from various government departments.

The celebration will begin on April 1 with Utkal Divas, observed by the Information and Public Relations Department. On April 2, the School and Mass Education Department will mark ‘Khadi Chuan Day’, welcoming young children enrolling in early education.

On April 3, the Handlooms, Textiles, and Handicrafts Department will promote traditional attire through ‘Ama Poshak Ama Parichaya’ (Our Dress, Our Identity) Day. This will be followed by a campaign on April 4 encouraging the use of Odia language in signboards.

To highlight heritage and fitness, a heritage run will be organized near historical sites on April 5, along with a cleanliness drive on April 6.

Further events include Children’s Storytelling Day on April 7, a blood donation drive on April 8, and a book-buying campaign on April 9 to encourage reading habits. April 10 will be dedicated to folk arts, celebrating Odisha’s traditional art forms.

The programme will continue with cultural events such as ‘Amrutapidhi Samaroha’ on April 11 and ‘Bandaniya Baraputra’ on April 12, honoring notable personalities.

On April 13, ‘Ama Ruchi Ama Khadya Day’ will focus on promoting traditional and local cuisine, highlighting Odisha’s diverse food culture.

The ‘Odia Pakhya’ initiative reflects the state government’s efforts to preserve and promote Odia identity, while engaging people across all sections of society in celebrating their cultural roots.

Racing Bulls Simulator in Special 2026 Japanese GP Livery Revealed by F1® Authentics

F1® Authentics , operated by Memento Exclusives under licence of Formula 1®, has revealed a brand-new limited edition Official 2026 Team Licensed Simulator for Visa Cash App Racing Bulls Formula One ® Team; exclusively presented in the special ‘Cherry Edition’ livery from the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix.

Created to be synonymous with the vehicles seen on track in Suzuka, the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix livery Motion Simulator has been made by Memento Exclusives’ expert team, featuring engineers and mechanics with decades of experience in motorsport. It utilises Official Team livery data to perfectly replicate the cars of Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad, who finished P9 and P14 respectively in Japan, securing more points and maintaining the positive start made to the new season.

First revealed at Red Bull Tokyo Drift in Shibuya before touring the streets of the city and arriving at the Suzuka Circuit, this unique livery celebrated Sakura, the colourful cherry and almond blossoms seen across Japan in Spring. Designed by Japanese calligrapher Bisen Aoyagi, it features white, red and silver colours and calligraphy, encapsulating a moment in time and the beauty of Japanese culture.

As well as claiming two valuable points in Suzuka, this unique livery has already gained significant popularity amongst the online racing community.  CEO Peter Bayer said the original livery design was part of embracing the cultural context of each race in a meaningful way and the team continues to “look for ways to connect with young fans and the cultures that shape our sport”.

Boasting haptic actuators, a front pivot configuration and haptic rumble feedback, this latest edition Motion Simulator moves authentically to replicate the feeling of every turn from every iconic circuit. These high-tech systems will provide drivers with the most immersive F1® experience possible, beyond winning a seat on the team.

The limited edition Official 2026 Visa Cash App Racing Bulls Formula One ® Team Japanese Grand Prix Motion Simulator is now live on F1Authentics.com.  

Collectors are encouraged to act quickly to become the proud owner of this landmark moment, with this special livery in limited quantities and in high demand.