Category Archives: News

Xandari Resorts launches Earthbound Wellness for the Monsoon

Kochi, July 2: As Kerala welcomes the rejuvenating Karkkidakam season, Xandari Resorts launches Earthbound Wellness, a collection of specially curated monsoon wellness packages that blend authentic Ayurveda with restorative leisure experiences. The programmes will be offered through Ayura Wellness, Xandari Resorts’ Ayurveda offering, where qualified Ayurveda physicians and therapists provide personalised wellness experiences inspired by the healing power of nature. Available from July 1 to September 30, 2026, the seasonal offering can be experienced at Cardamom County by Xandari, Thekkady, and Xandari Pearl Beach Resort, Mararikulam, inviting travellers to experience Kerala’s age-old healing traditions during the monsoon.

Recognised in Ayurveda as one of the most beneficial times of the year for rejuvenation, the monsoon season is believed to make the body more receptive to treatments. Inspired by this tradition, Earthbound Wellness has been thoughtfully designed around the philosophy of Pause. Breathe. Restore, offering travellers an opportunity to unwind amidst nature while embracing holistic wellbeing.

Each wellness journey begins with a consultation and Prakriti assessment, followed by a personalised programme that includes Ayurvedic therapies, yoga, meditation, herbal wellness rituals, and nature-based experiences. Complementing the treatments is a specially curated Ayurvedic meal plan featuring seasonal preparations such as Karkkidaka kanji, Ayurvedic thali, and herbal drinks, all designed to support the body’s natural healing process.

Travellers can choose from four wellness programmes, such as 3-Day Reset, 5-Day Restore, 7-Day Rebalance, and 14-Day Transformation, each tailored to different wellness goals while combining relaxation with authentic Ayurvedic care in serene natural surroundings.

Speaking about the launch, Arvind Gangadharan, Chief Xperience Officer, Xandari Resorts, said,

“Today’s travellers are seeking experiences that leave them feeling restored, not just rested. Earthbound Wellness reflects our belief that wellbeing is most meaningful when it is rooted in authenticity, personalised care, and a deep connection with nature. These programmes have been thoughtfully designed to offer travellers an opportunity to slow down and experience Ayurveda in its true essence.”

‘Samruddha Odisha 2036’ Vision Gains Momentum with Rs 1.10 Lakh Crore Aluminium Project: CM Mohan Majhi

Bhubaneswar, July 2 (UDN): Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday said Odisha’s long-term development roadmap, ‘Samruddha Odisha 2036’, has received a major boost with the launch of a Rs 1.10 lakh crore aluminium project, describing it as a landmark investment that will accelerate the state’s industrial transformation and economic growth.

The Chief Minister said the mega project reflects growing investor confidence in Odisha and aligns with the state’s vision of becoming a leading industrial and manufacturing hub by 2036. He noted that the investment is expected to generate substantial employment opportunities, strengthen downstream industries, and contribute significantly to the state’s economy.

Majhi said the project would not only enhance Odisha’s position in the aluminium sector but also promote infrastructure development, technological advancement, and inclusive growth in the region. He emphasised that the state government remains committed to providing a business-friendly ecosystem and ensuring the timely implementation of major industrial projects.

Highlighting the objectives of the ‘Samruddha Odisha 2036’ vision, the Chief Minister said the roadmap focuses on sustainable industrialisation, employment generation, infrastructure expansion, and balanced regional development. He added that the government’s proactive policies and investor-friendly initiatives are helping attract large-scale investments across key sectors.

The Chief Minister expressed confidence that the aluminium project would serve as a catalyst for Odisha’s aspiration of becoming a prosperous, self-reliant, and globally competitive economy by 2036.

ISRO Bengaluru Facility Evacuated After Hoax Bomb Threat Email

Bengaluru, July 2: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) received a hoax email claiming the presence of a bomb at its new BEL Road facility in Bengaluru, prompting immediate precautionary action.

Following the threat alert, the premises were evacuated as a safety measure while security agencies conducted preliminary checks. Officials later indicated that the email appeared to be part of a broader hoax campaign targeting multiple institutions.

Police sources stated that similar threat emails have recently been sent to the Karnataka High Court and several schools in Bengaluru, suggesting a coordinated attempt to create panic.

Authorities are investigating the origin of the emails, while security has been tightened across sensitive locations as a precautionary step. Further details are awaited.

Meghalaya Records 74 pc Rainfall Deficit, Highest in Northeast: IMD

Shillong, July 2: Meghalaya has recorded a monsoon rainfall deficit of 74 per cent, the highest among northeastern states, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The significant shortfall highlights uneven monsoon performance across the region, with several areas receiving substantially below-normal rainfall so far this season. Meteorological data indicates that the deficit has impacted overall precipitation patterns in the state.

Experts suggest that such a high deficit may affect agriculture, water availability, and allied activities if the dry spell persists. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and weather developments to assess potential impacts in the coming weeks.

The IMD continues to track monsoon conditions across the Northeast as rainfall distribution remains highly variable this season.

Odisha Government Declares Odia Film ‘Aafaa’ Tax-Free to Promote Organ Donation Awareness

Bhubaneswar, July 2 (UDN): The Odisha government has granted tax-free status to the Odia feature film ‘Aafaa’, recognising its powerful social message on organ donation and its potential to inspire public awareness, particularly among the youth.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi approved the proposal on Wednesday, paving the way for the film to be screened across the state without the burden of entertainment tax.

Directed by Pritiraj Satpathy and produced by Naina Das Tiwari, Aafaa centres on the emotional journey of a 16-year-old girl battling a life-threatening illness who chooses to donate her organs despite the challenges she faces. Through its compelling narrative, the film seeks to promote compassion, selflessness and the life-saving importance of organ donation.

According to the state government, the decision to exempt the film from tax reflects its commitment to supporting cinema that carries meaningful social messages. Officials believe the film has the potential to encourage discussions on organ donation and motivate people, especially young audiences, to contribute towards this humanitarian cause.

With the tax exemption, the government expects Aafaa to reach a wider audience and strengthen awareness about organ donation while reinforcing the role of cinema as a medium for positive social change.

Indian Railways Freight Loading Rises 4 pc to 142.21 Million Tonnes in June

New Delhi, July 2: Indian Railways has reported a 4 per cent year-on-year increase in freight loading, reaching 142.21 million tonnes in June, reflecting steady growth in cargo movement across the national rail network.

The rise in freight volumes highlights improved logistics efficiency and sustained demand from key sectors such as coal, cement, steel, and food grains. Officials noted that the consistent performance underscores the growing role of railways in supporting India’s supply chain and industrial activity.

The increase in freight loading is also seen as a result of ongoing efforts to enhance infrastructure capacity, streamline operations, and improve turnaround time for goods transportation.

With stable demand from core sectors, Indian Railways is expected to maintain strong freight performance in the coming months, contributing significantly to the country’s logistics and economic growth.

Stock Markets Rise Sharply on Easing Crude Prices

Mumbai, July 2: Indian equity markets ended higher as easing crude oil prices boosted investor sentiment and supported gains across key sectors.

The Sensex surged 579 points, while the Nifty index crossed the 24,175 mark, reflecting strong buying interest in auto, banking, and metal stocks. Market participants attributed the rally to softening global crude prices, which eased concerns over inflation and input costs.

Analysts said that lower oil prices improved overall risk appetite and strengthened expectations of stable macroeconomic conditions. Positive domestic cues, including strong sectoral performance, also contributed to the upward momentum.

Broader markets witnessed healthy participation, with mid-cap and small-cap stocks also trading in positive territory.

Experts noted that sustained trends in global commodity prices and upcoming economic data releases will continue to guide market direction in the coming sessions.

Odisha Congress In-Charge Lalji Desai to Chair Maiden Organisational Meeting in Bhubaneswar Today

Bhubaneswar, July 2 (UDN): Newly appointed Odisha Congress in-charge Lalji Desai is set to chair his first organisational meeting with party leaders in Bhubaneswar today, marking the beginning of his efforts to strengthen the party’s organisational structure in the state.

The meeting is expected to be attended by senior state Congress leaders, office-bearers, district presidents, legislators, and other key functionaries. Discussions are likely to focus on organisational strengthening, membership expansion, preparations for upcoming political programmes, and strategies to enhance the party’s outreach across Odisha.

Desai is also expected to review the party’s performance, assess district-level organisational activities, and seek feedback from leaders on issues concerning the state’s political landscape. The meeting assumes significance as the Congress seeks to revitalise its base in Odisha and intensify its campaign on public issues.

Party leaders are hopeful that Desai’s maiden visit and interaction with the state leadership will provide fresh momentum to the organisation and help improve coordination among party functionaries.

Further details of the deliberations and decisions taken during the meeting are expected to be shared after the conclusion of the meeting.

MPEDA Skill Olympiad Showcases India’s Seafood Processing Expertise

New Delhi, July 2: The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) organized a Seafood Skill Olympiad to showcase India’s growing talent and capabilities in value-added seafood processing.

The event highlighted the skills of participants in modern seafood preparation, processing techniques, quality control, and value addition practices aimed at strengthening India’s position in global seafood markets. It also provided a platform to promote innovation, skill development, and industry best practices in the fisheries and seafood export sector.

Officials noted that such initiatives play a crucial role in enhancing employability, improving processing standards, and supporting the growth of India’s seafood export industry. The programme also reflects ongoing efforts to boost competitiveness and encourage higher value addition within the sector.

Overall, the Olympiad is seen as an important step towards building a skilled workforce and strengthening India’s presence in the international seafood trade.

Assam Targets 10 Lakh Litres of Daily Milk Production