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Odisha Poll Panel Begins Groundwork For 2027 Panchayat, Urban Elections

Bhubaneswar, Sept. 30 (UDN): The Odisha State Election Commission has stepped up preparations for the 2027 Panchayat and Urban Local Body elections, organising a state-level training programme for officials involved in the electoral process.

The training programme was held under the chairmanship of State Election Commissioner Madhusudan Padhi, with senior officials from districts, blocks and urban local bodies taking part.

Additional District Collectors, Deputy District Collectors, District Panchayat Officers, Assistant and Deputy Commissioners, Executive Officers, Block Development Officers and BLO Supervisors attended the programme.

The sessions focused on key aspects of election preparedness, including preparation and revision of electoral rolls, field-level verification, election management and administrative procedures.

Addressing the officials, SEC Madhusudan Padhi stressed the need for accuracy, transparency and accountability throughout the election process. He also called for electoral services that are accessible and convenient for citizens.

Door-to-Door Verification Gets Special Focus

A major focus of the training was the door-to-door verification of electoral rolls. Field officials were instructed to ensure that eligible voters who may have been left out are included in the rolls and that errors relating to names, addresses and other voter details are corrected in accordance with the rules.

Officials were also directed to take appropriate action regarding voters who are found to be ineligible or absent during the verification exercise.

The Commission emphasised that accurate electoral rolls are essential for ensuring an inclusive election process and called for thorough house-to-house verification at the field level.

Officials Briefed On Panchayat, Municipal Poll Preparations

The programme also highlighted the importance of coordination among district, block and urban-level officials to complete election-related assignments within the prescribed timelines.

Municipal Director Arindam Dakua briefed participants on the door-to-door survey process for municipal elections, while Joint Secretary of the Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Department Surya Narayan Dash discussed key aspects of preparations for Panchayat elections.

Officials involved in pilot surveys also shared their field experiences. Bhubaneswar Deputy Collector Minoranja Sahu, Balipatna GPDO Haraprasad Mohanty and BLO Supervisor Sudhakar Behera spoke about the practical challenges and experiences encountered during field-level verification.

A question-and-answer session was held at the end of the training, allowing participating officers to seek clarification on electoral surveys and voter-list preparation.

The State Election Commission said coordinated field-level action and accurate electoral rolls would remain central to preparations for the 2027 Panchayat and Urban elections in Odisha.

CAG Flags Land Management Gaps In Odisha, 12,393 Acres Of Industrial Land Remain Unused

Bhubaneswar, Sept. 30 (UDN): The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has flagged significant shortcomings in Odisha’s land management, including the non-utilisation of thousands of acres allotted for industrial and allied activities.

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A performance audit covering eight districts found that 12,393.651 acres of land allotted between 1981 and 2021 had remained unused for the purposes for which they were sanctioned. Another 252.692 acres were found to have been used for activities other than those approved.

According to the audit, the Odisha Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (IDCO) had allotted 50,231.849 acres for industrial purposes as of March 2024. However, inadequate monitoring and weak lease provisions affected the authorities’ ability to enforce land-use conditions and recover plots that remained unutilised.

The CAG also pointed to gaps in the land-record monitoring system. The Revenue and Disaster Management Department did not maintain a comprehensive database to track acquired and allotted land, while regular surveys to assess actual land use were not being conducted by IDCO or district administrations.

Government Land Worth Nearly ₹598 Crore Under Encroachment

The audit further revealed that 668.893 acres of government land, estimated to be worth ₹597.87 crore, were under unauthorised occupation in the areas covered by the audit.

The report also identified instances of land-use violations involving agricultural and forest land.

As many as 504.768 acres of agricultural land were found to have been used for non-agricultural purposes without proper authorisation. In addition, 568.876 acres of forest land had reportedly been used for non-forest activities without the required approvals.

The CAG has recommended stronger mechanisms to monitor allotted land and ensure compliance with prescribed conditions.

Among the measures suggested are the creation of village-wise land banks, regular surveys to establish the status of land, recovery of unused industrial plots and stringent action against unauthorised occupation and land-use changes.

The audit findings highlight the need for closer coordination between IDCO, district administrations and the Revenue Department to improve oversight of industrial and government land across the state.

79 LPG Cylinders Seized Near Bhubaneswar Over Suspected Illegal Transportation

Bhubaneswar, Sept. 30 (UDN): The Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Department has seized 79 LPG cylinders and two vehicles during a crackdown on suspected illegal transportation of cooking gas on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar.

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The seizure was made in the Hanspal-Naharkanta area after officials received information about the alleged unauthorised movement of LPG cylinders.

According to department officials, a team was heading to the area for an APS inspection when they noticed two vehicles allegedly involved in transferring cylinders from one vehicle to another.

The officials intercepted the vehicles and asked the persons handling the cylinders to produce documents authorising their transportation. However, they allegedly failed to provide valid papers.

Following the document verification failure, the department seized all 79 cylinders along with the two vehicles.

A written complaint was subsequently filed at Pahala police station, and the drivers were taken in for questioning.

Officials said the investigation will focus on determining where the cylinders originated, where they were being transported and whether the cylinders were linked to legitimate beneficiaries possessing valid LPG consumer cards.

“We will ascertain the source of the cylinders, their intended destination and whether the beneficiaries have valid cards. A detailed inquiry will be conducted,” an official said.

The department is also examining the possible supply chain involved in the movement of the cylinders and is working to identify others who may be connected with the suspected operation.

Further action will be taken based on the findings of the inquiry, officials said.

Odisha Bandh Sees Limited Impact In Bhubaneswar, Protesters Detained At Master Canteen

Bhubaneswar, Sept. 30 (UDN): The 12-hour Odisha Bandh called by the Naba Nirman Krushak Sangathan (NNKS) had limited impact in the state capital on Wednesday, with traffic movement, shops, markets and government offices largely functioning as normal.

Bhubaneswar DCP Saravana Vivek M said the overall situation in the city remained peaceful and normal throughout the day.

“Vehicles are running completely normally, and the traffic system is entirely normal. All shops and markets are open. Government offices are also fully open, and everyone is going to work,” the DCP said.

Police, however, detained a few protesters after they allegedly attempted to block a road near Master Canteen Square.

According to the DCP, the protesters were taken into preventive detention to avoid disruption to traffic and maintain public order. He said those detained would be released on bond after some time.

The bandh was called by the NNKS over a six-point charter of demands. One of the issues raised by the organisation relates to alleged errors in school textbooks. The group has also sought the resignation of School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond over the issue.

Despite the bandh call, regular public movement continued across Bhubaneswar, while police personnel remained deployed at key locations to monitor the situation and prevent attempts at road blockades.

The city police maintained vigilance in areas considered sensitive and continued traffic management measures to ensure the movement of commuters remained uninterrupted.

With most commercial establishments and government offices functioning normally, the bandh did not significantly disrupt day-to-day activities in Bhubaneswar, according to the police.

Nobu Announces Nobu Hotel and Restaurant San Juan, Marking Its Debut in Puerto Rico

The 50-room luxury hotel will bring Nobu’s signature hospitality, iconic cuisine, and design philosophy to San Juan.

NEW YORK, Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Nobu is pleased to announce Nobu Hotel and Restaurant San Juan, the brand’s first venture into Puerto Rico. The intimate luxury hotel will bring Nobu’s distinctive approach to hospitality to one of the Caribbean’s most recognized historic destinations.

Scheduled to open in 2028, the Nobu Hotel will feature a signature Nobu restaurant and bar at street level, as well as a rooftop lounge and bar. The hotel will reflect the character and heritage of San Juan while introducing Nobu’s contemporary aesthetic and understated approach to luxury.

Known for its centuries of history, distinctive architecture and rich cultural heritage, San Juan is home to renowned dining, galleries and a celebrated waterfront. The destination offers a compelling setting for Nobu’s first hotel and restaurant in Puerto Rico and will provide guests with an opportunity to experience the culture and character of the island.

“Puerto Rico has long been one of the Caribbean’s most compelling destinations, celebrated for its rich history, vibrant culture, and exceptional hospitality,” said Trevor Horwell, CEO of Nobu Hospitality. “Bringing the Nobu Hotel and Restaurant to San Juan allows us to become part of one of the region’s most storied neighborhoods while introducing our distinctive approach to hospitality in a destination that continues to attract discerning travelers from around the world.“

“Few places in the Caribbean combine culture, history, and energy the way San Juan does,” said Joakim Lehmkuhl, Managing Partner of KTT. “Nobu saw the same thing, and that shared understanding is what makes this work.

“This reflects the kind of investment we believe the city deserves. Nobu’s hotel and restaurant will bring the brand’s design, cuisine, and hospitality to San Juan, adding to its reputation as one of the Caribbean’s most distinctive destinations.”

Nobu Hotel and Restaurant San Juan will blend the energy of the old city with the calm, refined atmosphere that defines every Nobu destination. Guests can expect thoughtfully designed accommodations, intuitive service inspired by the Japanese spirit of omotenashi, world-renowned dining, and curated experiences that connect them to the culture and character of Puerto Rico.

www.nobuhotels.com/hotel-collection/sanjuan

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OuterSignal Raises $22 Million in Series A Funding Round: NYSE Content Update

NYSE issues a pre-market daily advisory direct from the trading floor.

NEW YORK, Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) provides a daily pre-market update directly from the NYSE Trading Floor. Access today’s NYSE Pre-market update for market insights before trading begins. 

Ashley Mastronardi delivers the pre-market update on September 30th

• OuterSignal says its fresh capital will help it bring agentic personalization to every consumer brand.
  • The agentic customer intelligence platform is focusing on bolstering its research engine and building personalization that generates a version of every message for every customer.
  • Founder Noah Friedman told the NYSE at Uncharted’s Fame to Fortune event that commerce has not kept up with the people who supported it.
• Triumph Financial has released its inaugural ‘Triumph Mile Marker’ report, highlighting notable industry shifts.
  • The company’s research suggests that the trucking industry is entering a new era defined by the availability of capacity that can be deployed with confidence.
  • Triumph’s report spotlights trends that may reshape how brokers, carriers, and shippers evaluate market conditions in the coming months.
  • Triumph’s Founder, Vice Chair, and CEO Aaron Graft will join NYSE Live to explain how businesses can position themselves for success based off the report’s findings.
• Investors are parsing through a pair of economic reports that dropped earlier today.
  • The August PCE Price Index and the final Q2 GDP reading provide the latest glimpse of the U.S. economy.
  • Traders are reacting to September ADP private payrolls data, offering insight into private sector employment ahead of Friday’s September jobs report.
  • The U.S. 30-year Treasury yield hit its highest mark since 2002 as bond yields remain elevated.

Opening Bell

Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Latino to celebrate their permanent home in Washington D.C.

Closing Bell

Arcos Dorados (NYSE: ARCO) celebrate its 15^th anniversary as a listed company.

For market insights, IPO activity, and today’s opening bell, download the NYSE TV App and check out the NYSE YouTube: TV.NYSE.com and YouTube.com/@NYSEofficial

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Rescued Orangutans Adapting Well To Odisha Climate, DNA Tests To Trace Origin

Bhubaneswar, Sept.  30 (UDN): The rescued orangutans housed in Odisha are reportedly adapting well to the state’s climatic conditions, with their health showing signs of improvement, Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia said on Wednesday.

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The Minister said the animals are under round-the-clock observation and are being regularly examined by teams of specialist veterinarians.

According to Khuntia, the orangutans have also shown an increase in body weight since their rescue, indicating improvement in their overall condition.

“The climate of Odisha suits the orangutans. Special care is being taken and 24-hour monitoring is being done. Their weight has also increased,” the Minister said.

Meanwhile, authorities are preparing to conduct DNA tests to establish the geographical origin of the rescued primates.

Khuntia said the state has been in touch with the Geological Survey of India (GSI) in connection with the testing. Samples are expected to be collected shortly and sent for examination.

Once the DNA analysis is completed, the report is expected to provide information that could help determine the orangutans’ origin, the Minister said.

“The samples will be collected very soon and sent for examination. After the DNA test report, it will be clear which country they have come from. The Government of India will also be informed,” Khuntia said.

The findings are expected to assist authorities in establishing the background and origin of the rescued orangutans and determining the appropriate course of action for their continued care.

Kichakeswari Temple Development: Centre Sanctions INR 44.91 Crore For Khiching Temple In Mayurbhanj

Mayurbhanj, Sept. 30 (UDN): The historic Maa Kichakeswari Temple at Khiching in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district is set to receive a major infrastructure boost, with the Centre sanctioning ₹44.91 crore for the development of the temple complex under the PRASHAD scheme.

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The announcement was made by the Union Minister for Culture and Tourism on social media. The sanctioned amount is aimed at strengthening pilgrimage infrastructure while preserving the religious, cultural and heritage significance of the centuries-old temple.

The project has been app roved under the Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) of the Ministry of Tourism. The scheme focuses on developing pilgrimage and heritage destinations by improving basic amenities and visitor facilities.

The proposed development at the Kichakeswari Temple complex is expected to include improved facilities for devotees and tourists, better visitor amenities and infrastructure upgrades aimed at enhancing the overall pilgrimage experience.

The temple, located at Khiching, is an important religious and heritage site in Mayurbhanj and attracts devotees as well as visitors interested in Odisha’s architectural and cultural heritage.

The Centre’s investment is also expected to give a push to pilgrimage tourism in the region. Improved infrastructure could encourage more visitors to Khiching and create greater opportunities for local businesses and tourism-linked activities.

The project is being positioned as an effort to balance modern visitor facilities with the preservation of the temple’s historic and spiritual character.

The development of the Kichakeswari Temple complex is expected to add to Odisha’s growing network of pilgrimage and heritage tourism destinations and strengthen the state’s tourism infrastructure.

CCTV Cameras, Plainclothes Cops To Intensify Security At Bhubaneswar Puja Pandals

Bhubaneswar, Sept. 30 (UDN): The Commissionerate Police has strengthened its security strategy for the upcoming festive season in Bhubaneswar, with enhanced surveillance, CCTV monitoring and deployment of plainclothes personnel planned at major puja pandals across the city.

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Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Dr Saravana Vivek M said police would identify locations considered vulnerable based on incidents reported during previous festive seasons and increase patrolling and surveillance in those areas.

“We will review the security situation for the upcoming festive season and take necessary measures. Places identified as vulnerable during previous festive seasons will be kept under special surveillance, with additional patrolling in those areas,” the DCP said.

As part of the security plan, puja committees and organisers have been asked to install CCTV cameras at their respective pandals. Police have already held meetings with organisers to discuss crowd management and other security arrangements.

“CCTV coverage will be ensured at the pandals. We have already discussed the security arrangements with the organisers, and they will have to install CCTV cameras as part of the security measures,” DCP Saravana Vivek said.

Police personnel in plain clothes will also be deployed at various pandals to monitor suspicious activities, keep an eye on crowds and prevent crimes such as chain-snatching and other offences targeting women.

According to the DCP, photographs of habitual offenders and individuals previously involved in snatching cases will be circulated among police personnel to facilitate identification and monitoring during the festive period.

The police have also intensified their watch on unauthorised or forced collection of donations during the festive season. All police stations have been directed to monitor such activities and take action against those found violating the law.

“Strict action will be taken against those involved in forcibly collecting donations. All police stations have been instructed to remain vigilant and take action as per law,” the DCP said.

Surveillance will also be stepped up against criminals coming from outside the state, the DCP added.

Police officials will coordinate with inspectors-in-charge and senior officers to assess security requirements at different locations and finalise deployment plans accordingly.

The Commissionerate Police has urged puja committees to give priority to the safety of devotees and ensure adequate security and crowd-management arrangements at their pandals.

The enhanced patrolling, CCTV surveillance and deployment of police personnel will remain in place throughout the festive season to maintain public safety and ensure the smooth conduct of celebrations across Bhubaneswar.

Zoomlion Marks 34th Anniversary, Highlighting Milestones in Innovation and Global Growth

CHANGSHA, China, Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science & Technology Co., Ltd. (“Zoomlion” or “the Company”) marked its 34th anniversary on September 28 with celebrations across its global operations under the theme “Youth in Bloom, Horizons Beyond.” The main event at Zoomlion Smart Industrial City in Changsha brought together company leaders and employees.

Employees from 22 countries delivered anniversary greetings in their own languages. Zoomlion’s industrial parks, overseas business hubs and regional operations also held local activities on the same day.

Over the past 34 years, Zoomlion has expanded from its early roots in construction machinery into a diversified equipment business with operations in markets around the world.

1992 | The beginning. Zoomlion was founded in Changsha by Zhan Chunxin and seven colleagues, with an initial focus on commercializing engineering research and bringing new construction machinery products to market.

First product | HBT40A concrete pump. Less than a year later, the team launched the HBT40A, Zoomlion’s first independently developed product. It entered a concrete pump market then largely dominated by imported equipment and became the company’s first step toward building a broader product portfolio.

1994 onward | Expanding the product range. Zoomlion quickly broadened its lineup. By 1994, it offered 78 models across concrete machinery, construction cranes and sanitation equipment. By 1996 annual output value had reached RMB 120 million. The expansion moved Zoomlion beyond a single product category and into several areas of equipment manufacturing.

2000-2010 | Entering the capital markets. Zoomlion listed A-shares on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange in 2000 and H-shares in Hong Kong in 2010, becoming the first company in its industry with an A+H share listing. The listings supported further expansion as the company’s business and product portfolio continued to grow.

2002 onward | Adding new businesses. Through acquisitions and in-house development, Zoomlion expanded into foundation machinery, aerial work platforms and mining machinery. It also built capabilities in key components including control systems and hydraulics, broadening both its equipment portfolio and technical capabilities.

2006-2008 | Adapting to a larger business. As its product lines and operations expanded, Zoomlion introduced a divisional structure in 2006 to manage a larger and more diversified business. By 2008, annual revenue had exceeded RMB 10 billion.

One Zoomlion brand. As Zoomlion expanded into more businesses, some operations had developed under different brand names. The company later brought them together under the ZOOMLION brand, creating a unified identity across its domestic and international operations.

2008 onward | Expanding overseas. Zoomlion accelerated its international expansion with the acquisition of Italian concrete machinery manufacturer CIFA in 2008. Further overseas acquisitions followed, alongside the development of production bases, R&D centers and parts-supply operations outside China. The company also built local sales, service and parts-support capabilities in major international markets, extending its presence beyond product exports.

Today, Zoomlion’s businesses span construction, mining and agricultural machinery. The company operates 11 overseas R&D and manufacturing bases, and its products and services reach more than 170 countries and regions. International revenue now accounts for nearly 60% of total revenue. In key markets, Zoomlion combines local manufacturing with sales, service and parts support to respond more directly to customer needs.

As it enters its 35th year, Zoomlion plans to continue advancing diversification, globalization and digitalization, with a focus on high-end equipment, intelligent technologies and greener development. The company will continue investing in technology and localized operations, including the use of AI, robotics and new-energy technologies across its businesses. These investments will support product development and help the company serve customers across key global markets.

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