Category Archives: News

Centre Simplifies FSSAI Compliance Norms to Ease Business Operations in Food Sector

New Delhi, June 26: The Centre has notified key changes in the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulations aimed at simplifying compliance requirements for food business operators and improving ease of doing business in the sector.

Officials said the revised framework is designed to reduce procedural burdens while ensuring that food safety and quality standards remain uncompromised. The reforms are expected to streamline approval processes, simplify documentation requirements, and make regulatory compliance faster and more efficient.

The changes are part of a broader effort to support micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the food sector by reducing regulatory complexity and encouraging greater formalisation of businesses. Authorities noted that the updated norms will also promote a more transparent and predictable regulatory environment.

FSSAI has also strengthened its risk-based regulatory approach, enabling more targeted inspections and monitoring based on the size, nature, and risk profile of food business operators. This is expected to improve enforcement efficiency while reducing unnecessary compliance pressure on low-risk entities.

Industry stakeholders are expected to benefit from clearer guidelines, faster approvals, and improved operational ease across the food supply chain. Officials added that the reforms reflect the government’s continued focus on balancing consumer safety with industry facilitation and promoting a more business-friendly regulatory ecosystem.

IMD Forecasts Low Pressure Over Bay of Bengal in Early July; Monsoon Activity Set to Intensify

Bhubaneswar, June 26 (UDN): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has projected the formation of a low pressure area over the North Bay of Bengal during the first week of July, a development that could significantly strengthen monsoon activity across eastern and central India, including Odisha.

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According to IMD’s latest extended range outlook, a cyclonic circulation is likely to form over the northwest Bay of Bengal, off the Odisha coast, around July 2. Under its influence, a low pressure area may develop over the North Bay of Bengal between July 3 and 4.

Weather experts said the system is expected to move in a west-northwestward direction and may intensify further during the second week of July, thereby enhancing the southwest monsoon flow over large parts of the country.

Several leading numerical weather prediction models, including IMD-GFS, NCEP-GFS, NCMRWF Mithuna, ECMWF, as well as artificial intelligence-based forecasting models such as Pangu Weather and GraphCast, have indicated the possibility of such a weather system taking shape over the Bay of Bengal.

However, the IMD has clarified that no immediate cyclogenesis is expected during the next two weeks. Ensemble forecast models indicate only a low probability—between 20 and 30 per cent—of the system intensifying into a depression. Current model consensus points towards the formation of a low pressure area rather than a stronger cyclonic system.

Meteorologists noted that while uncertainties remain regarding the exact track and intensity of the system, its formation is likely to trigger enhanced rainfall activity over Odisha and several parts of eastern and central India.

The IMD is closely monitoring the evolving weather conditions and has advised stakeholders, particularly farmers and fishermen, to remain updated with official weather bulletins and advisories.

Kolkata Warehouse Roof Collapse: Death Toll Rises to 15, Probe Intensifies

Kolkata, June 26: The death toll in the Kolkata warehouse roof collapse incident has risen to 15 after a 19-year-old worker succumbed to injuries while undergoing treatment at a hospital, officials said.

The victim was among those critically injured in the collapse and had been under intensive medical care since the incident. Several other injured workers are still undergoing treatment at various hospitals.

The incident took place after the roof of a warehouse suddenly collapsed, trapping workers inside and triggering large-scale rescue operations. Fire and emergency services, along with disaster response teams, were deployed immediately to pull out those trapped under debris.

Preliminary information suggests that structural weakness and possible safety lapses may have contributed to the collapse, though an official investigation is underway to determine the exact cause. Authorities have begun examining compliance with building safety norms and workplace regulations at the site.

Officials said a detailed probe has been launched, and statements from survivors, supervisors, and site managers are being recorded as part of the investigation.

The tragedy has renewed concerns over industrial safety standards and enforcement in workplace facilities, with calls for stricter monitoring to prevent similar incidents in the future.

India Go Down to England in Shootout in FIH Pro League Match

London, June 26: The Indian men’s hockey team suffered a narrow defeat to England in a penalty shootout during their FIH Pro League encounter, after both sides were locked at the end of regulation time in a closely fought match.

The game was marked by high intensity and disciplined defensive structures from both teams, with limited clear scoring opportunities through the four quarters. India matched England’s pace and physicality for most of the contest, holding firm in defence while attempting to build structured attacking moves.

Despite creating chances in key phases of the match, the Indian side was unable to convert opportunities into goals, with the England defence and goalkeeper standing strong to keep the scoreline level at full time.

With the match tied after regulation time, the outcome was decided through a shootout, where England held their composure to edge past India and secure the victory.

India, meanwhile, were left to reflect on missed chances during regulation play and the fine margins that ultimately determined the result. However, the performance also highlighted several positives, including defensive solidity and sustained pressure in midfield during stretches of the game.

The result adds another closely contested fixture to India’s FIH Pro League campaign, with the team expected to regroup and focus on converting chances more effectively in upcoming matches.

Australia Reach FIFA World Cup Knockouts After 0–0 Draw with Paraguay

Sydney, June 26: Australia secured a place in the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup after holding Paraguay to a 0–0 draw in a tightly contested group-stage match.

Despite several attempts from both sides, neither team was able to break the deadlock, with strong defensive displays and disciplined goalkeeping keeping the scoreline unchanged throughout the match.

The result proved sufficient for Australia to advance to the next round, as they accumulated the necessary points from their group-stage campaign.

Paraguay, meanwhile, saw their campaign come to an end after failing to secure a win in the decisive fixture.

The match highlighted Australia’s resilience and tactical discipline, particularly in defence, as they managed to withstand sustained pressure during key phases of the game.

With this result, Australia move forward to the knockout stage, keeping their World Cup campaign alive.

India Emerges 4th in Hurun Unicorn Index

New Delhi, June 26: India has ranked fourth globally with 61 unicorn companies, according to the latest Hurun Global Unicorn Index, underlining the country’s expanding footprint in the global startup ecosystem.

The report highlights India’s growing stature as a major hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, supported by rapid growth across key sectors such as fintech, e-commerce, software services, and consumer technology.

The United States and China continue to occupy the top two positions in the global rankings. India’s strong performance reflects the sustained expansion of its digital economy, rising domestic demand, and increasing participation from domestic and global investors in high-growth startups.

Industry experts attribute the rise in unicorn companies to improved access to venture capital, supportive policy initiatives, and accelerated digital adoption across industries. These factors have collectively strengthened India’s startup ecosystem and enabled several firms to scale rapidly.

The Hurun report also notes that India’s startup landscape is steadily maturing, with new-age companies contributing significantly to innovation, employment generation, and overall economic growth.

India’s fourth-place ranking reinforces its position as one of the fastest-growing innovation-driven economies in the world, with expectations of further growth in the number of unicorns in the coming years.

Strait of Hormuz Shipping Traffic Recovers to 57 pc of Pre-Conflict Levels: Report

June 26: Vessel traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has recovered to approximately 57% of pre-conflict levels, indicating a gradual stabilisation in one of the world’s most critical maritime and energy transit routes, according to a recent shipping and trade monitoring report.

The Strait of Hormuz, which connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, is a vital chokepoint for global energy flows, particularly crude oil and liquefied natural gas shipments from major producing countries in the Middle East to international markets. Any disruption in this narrow waterway typically has a significant impact on global energy supply chains and price stability.

The report highlighted that shipping activity in the region has improved steadily following earlier disruptions linked to geopolitical tensions. However, overall traffic remains below normal levels as shipping companies continue to adopt cautious routing strategies amid lingering security concerns.

Industry analysts noted that while the rebound in vessel movement reflects improving operational conditions, the pace of recovery remains uneven. Many shipping operators and insurers continue to factor in elevated risk premiums, which is affecting voyage planning and limiting a full return to pre-conflict shipping volumes.

The Strait of Hormuz remains under close observation by global energy markets, insurers, and maritime authorities due to its strategic importance and its role in facilitating a significant share of the world’s seaborne energy trade. Analysts say sustained stability in the region will be crucial for a complete recovery in shipping traffic in the coming months.

Muharram Holiday: Stock Markets to Remain Closed

Mumbai, June 26: The Indian stock markets will remain closed today on account of Muharram, a scheduled trading holiday.

Both the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange (NSE) will not conduct trading in equity, equity derivatives, securities lending and borrowing (SLB), and currency derivatives segments. Normal trading activities will resume on the next working day.

The closure is in line with the official holiday calendar issued by the stock exchanges. Investors and market participants have been advised to plan their trading and settlement activities accordingly to avoid any inconvenience.

While markets remain closed, investors can still access their trading platforms to view portfolios and place orders, which will be processed once trading resumes.

The exchanges periodically release trading holiday schedules to ensure smooth functioning and advance planning for all stakeholders in the financial markets.

Odisha Speaker Appoints Pramila Mallik to Head Public Accounts Committee for 2026–27

Bhubaneswar, June 26: Senior Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader and Chief Whip of the BJD Legislature Party, Pramila Mallik, has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the Odisha Legislative Assembly for the financial year 2026–27.

The appointment was made by Speaker Surama Padhy through a notification issued by the Odisha Legislative Assembly Secretariat. Mallik was nominated to head the committee under Rule 197(1) of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business of the Odisha Legislative Assembly.

The 12-member Public Accounts Committee has been constituted under Rule 135(1) of the Assembly’s Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business.

The committee comprises Chairperson Pramila Mallik along with members Rama Chandra Kadam, Dr. Aruna Kumar Sahu, Ganeswar Behera, Sanatan Bijuli, Akash Dasnayak, Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo, Ashok Mohanty, Babu Singh, Santosh Khatua, Amar Kumar Nayak and Arabinda Mohapatra.

The Public Accounts Committee is one of the most significant financial oversight bodies of the Odisha Legislative Assembly. It examines the reports of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India and scrutinises government expenditure to ensure that public funds are utilised in accordance with legislative approvals and established financial norms. The committee plays a crucial role in promoting transparency, accountability and fiscal discipline in public administration.

The constitution of the committee for 2026–27 is expected to further strengthen legislative oversight over the state’s financial management and expenditure.

Odisha Govt Suspends ‘VB-G Ram G’ Work for 60 Days During Kharif Season

Bhubaneswar, June 26 (UDN): The Odisha Government has announced the temporary suspension of the ‘VB-G Ram G’ work for a period of 60 days during the ongoing agricultural season to facilitate farming activities across the state.

According to an official notification issued by the government, the decision has been taken keeping in view the peak agricultural operations during the Kharif season. The suspension aims to ensure that farmers and rural workers can actively participate in farming activities without any disruption.

The government stated that the temporary halt in the implementation of the scheme will help address the increased demand for labour in agricultural fields during the sowing season. The move is expected to support timely cultivation and enhance agricultural productivity.

Officials said that the scheme’s activities will resume after the completion of the 60-day suspension period. Necessary instructions have already been issued to the concerned departments and implementing agencies for effective compliance with the government’s directive.

The state government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding farmers’ interests while ensuring the smooth implementation of rural development programmes.