Category Archives: News

Monsoon Covers Entire Odisha in Just 11 Days, Brings Rain and Cooler Weather

Bhubaneswar, June 23: The southwest monsoon has arrived across all parts of Odisha in a remarkably quick span of just 11 days, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The monsoon began advancing into the state on June 12 and has now fully covered the region.

The arrival of monsoon winds has brought a welcome change in weather conditions. Most parts of the state are witnessing cloudy skies, with several areas receiving light to moderate rainfall.

The widespread cloud cover has also helped ease the heat, bringing noticeable relief from high temperatures. Western Odisha, in particular, has experienced a drop of 3 to 5 degrees Celsius, making conditions significantly more comfortable.

The weather office has also indicated that temperatures may fall further by around 3 degrees Celsius over the next couple of days, along with continued cloudy skies and chances of intermittent rain.

Overall, the early and fast-moving monsoon has improved weather conditions across Odisha, bringing relief from heat and supporting the upcoming agricultural season.

Agriculture Ministry Rolls Out Plans Amid Rainfall Deficit

June 23: The Government of India has put in place contingency measures to address agricultural challenges arising from an estimated 40% rainfall deficit, according to the Agriculture Commissioner.

Officials stated that despite the uneven and below-normal monsoon conditions in several regions, preparedness plans are being implemented to safeguard crop production and support farmers. These measures include advisories on crop planning, promotion of drought-resilient seed varieties, and targeted interventions to manage water stress in affected areas.

The Agriculture Commissioner emphasized that the government is closely monitoring the situation and working with state authorities to ensure timely response mechanisms are activated where rainfall shortfalls are impacting sowing and crop growth.

Special focus is being given to vulnerable regions where delayed or insufficient monsoon rainfall may affect key kharif crops. Irrigation support, alternative cropping strategies, and extension services are being strengthened to minimise potential losses.

While the rainfall deficit presents challenges for the current agricultural season, officials remain confident that coordinated efforts between central and state agencies will help mitigate risks and support farm productivity.

Overall, the government reiterated its commitment to ensuring farmer welfare and maintaining food security through proactive planning and real-time monitoring of monsoon conditions.

Reports Claim Kunal Shah May Take Global Leadership Role at WhatsApp; Meta Allegedly Invests Nearly Dollar 1 Billion in CRED

New Delhi,June 23: Reports have suggested that CRED founder Kunal Shah may be appointed as the global head of WhatsApp, while Meta is also said to have made a significant investment of nearly $1 billion in the fintech company CRED.

According to sources cited in media reports, discussions are underway regarding a possible leadership reshuffle within WhatsApp, a messaging platform owned by Meta. However, there has been no official confirmation from either Meta or WhatsApp regarding the reported appointment.

In a parallel development, reports also indicate that Meta has invested close to $1 billion in CRED, the Indian fintech platform founded by Kunal Shah. The investment, if confirmed, would mark one of the major global funding moves involving an Indian consumer fintech company.

Neither Meta nor CRED has issued an official statement confirming the reported deal or leadership change at WhatsApp.

The reports have sparked widespread discussion in the technology and startup ecosystem, though details remain unverified at this stage.

Further clarification from the companies is awaited.

Similipal Tiger Reserve to Close for Tourists from June 29 Ahead of Monsoon Season

Baripada, June 23 (UDN): The Similipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district will remain closed for tourists and visitors from June 29 due to the onset of the monsoon season and associated safety concerns, authorities announced on Monday.

 UDN (File)

According to an official notification issued by the Office of the Director, Similipal Tiger Reserve, tourist entry through Kaliani Gate in Jashipur and Pithabata Gate near Baripada will be suspended until further notice. However, the Talabandh and Jamuani eco-tourism complexes will continue to remain open for visitors during the closure period.

Authorities said the annual shutdown has been enforced as heavy monsoon rainfall makes forest roads muddy, slippery and difficult to navigate. In addition, rainwater flowing down from the hills often damages internal roads, increasing the risk to tourists and vehicles inside the reserve.

Field Director of Similipal Tiger Reserve and Regional Chief Conservator of Forests, Baripada Circle, Dr. Prakash Chandra Gogineni, said the reopening date will be decided later based on weather conditions and road safety assessments after the monsoon season.

Officials noted that the reserve was reopened to tourists on October 18, 2025, and follows a routine seasonal closure every year during the rainy period to ensure visitor safety and ecological protection.

Further updates regarding reopening will be issued by the authorities in due course.

Adani Mundra Airport Expands Connectivity with New Flight Services

Mundra, June 23: Adani Mundra Airport has officially commenced its first scheduled commercial flight operations, marking a major milestone in enhancing air connectivity for the Kutch region.

The new service connects Mundra with Mumbai and Goa, providing direct and convenient travel options for passengers, businesses, and the tourism sector. The inaugural scheduled operations were launched by airline partner Star Air, as part of the airport’s broader expansion of regional connectivity.

Officials said the introduction of scheduled flights is expected to significantly boost economic activity in the region by improving access to key commercial and tourism hubs. The enhanced connectivity is also likely to support trade, logistics, and industrial growth in Kutch, which is already a rapidly developing economic zone.

In addition to the Mumbai and Goa routes, the airport has expanded its network to multiple other destinations, further strengthening its role as an emerging aviation hub in western India.

Industry experts believe the move will reduce travel time, improve business mobility, and encourage new investments in the region, especially in sectors linked to ports, manufacturing, and exports.

The development marks a new phase in Mundra Airport’s operations, transitioning it into a key node in India’s growing regional aviation network.

Kerala Youth Assaulted in Sambalpur on Child-Lifter Suspicion; Three Detained

Sambalpur, June 23 (UDN): Three persons have been detained in connection with the assault of a youth from Kerala who was allegedly attacked by a mob in Sambalpur city on suspicion of being a child lifter, police said on Monday.

According to police, a case was registered at Khetrajpur police station based on a complaint filed by ASI Surya Narayan Das. Sambalpur Additional SP Ajay Kumar Mishra confirmed that three individuals have been detained after being identified through CCTV footage and viral video clips of the incident.

The victim, identified as Vishnu Shibu from Kerala, was working as a labourer under a contractor in Bargarh district. Police said he had recently left his job and had come to Sambalpur in search of work when the incident occurred at Dhobapada Square.

Mishra stated that some locals allegedly assaulted him after suspecting him of involvement in criminal activity linked to child lifting rumours. He added that a language barrier may have further escalated the misunderstanding, as the youth was unable to communicate with the crowd.

The victim was rescued by police and taken to hospital for medical examination. Officials said he did not suffer any major injuries and was later sent back to his native place after receiving primary treatment.

Police added that the detained persons were identified based on video footage circulating on social media and CCTV recordings from the area. A detailed investigation is underway to identify others involved in the incident.

The video of the assault had gone viral on social media, showing a group of youths attacking the labourer while bystanders attempted to check his belongings.

The incident comes days after a similar case in Rayagada district, where two women from Delhi were allegedly assaulted on suspicion of being child lifters, prompting renewed concern over the spread of rumours leading to mob violence in the state.

Gujarat Leaders Remember Shyama Prasad Mukherjee on Death Anniversary

Gandhinagar, June 23: Leaders in Gujarat paid floral tributes to Shyama Prasad Mukherjee on his death anniversary, honouring his contribution to nation-building and public life.

On the occasion, public representatives and party leaders remembered Mukherjee’s role in strengthening democratic values and his commitment to national integration. They described him as a visionary leader whose ideals continue to inspire public service and governance.

Tribute programmes were organised across several parts of the state, where leaders and citizens gathered to offer respects and reflect on his legacy.

Speakers highlighted that Mukherjee’s principles and dedication to the nation remain relevant even today, especially in the context of unity and development.

The commemorative events concluded with calls to uphold his ideals and continue working towards national progress.

NCW Seeks Action Taken Report from Odisha DGP Over Rayagada Mob Assault Triggered by Child-Lifting Rumour

Rayagada, June 23 (UDN): The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken strong cognisance of the mob assault on a non-Odia woman in Odisha’s Rayagada district after she was falsely suspected of being involved in child lifting, and has sought an Action Taken Report (ATR) from the Director General of Police (DGP), Odisha.

Acting on its own initiative, the NCW has directed the state police chief to submit a detailed report, including a copy of the FIR, progress of investigation, and action taken against those involved in the assault as well as individuals responsible for spreading the rumour that triggered the violence.

The Commission has also sought information on the victim’s medical treatment, counselling support, and safety arrangements for volunteers and interns associated with NGOs working in the region.

The case has also come under the purview of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), with petitions alleging administrative and police lapses in controlling the rumour and preventing the attack. The petitions have named the Governor, Chief Minister, Chief Secretary, DGP, Rayagada SP, and District Collector as respondents, seeking strict action against the accused, compensation for the victim, and psychological support.

State Women’s Commission Chairperson Shobhana Mohanty termed the incident “shocking and inhumane,” noting that the victim, who has since returned to Delhi, has recorded her statement via video conferencing. She also said efforts are underway to ensure filing of a charge sheet within 60 days and trial in a fast-track court.

Additional Director General of Police (Crime Against Women and Children Wing) S. Saini said the investigation is being treated on a priority basis and will be closely monitored, with plans for a fast-track trial.

Police said the victim was allegedly misled by an individual for directions, who later spread false rumours branding her as a child kidnapper, triggering the mob attack. The alleged mastermind behind the misinformation has been arrested, and investigators are examining multiple video clips to identify other accused. A Test Identification (TI) parade is also being considered.

So far, 25 people have been arrested in connection with the case. While 24 accused have already been produced before court, another arrest was made recently. Several residents of Intaliguda village have reportedly fled the area fearing further arrests.

Rayagada Superintendent of Police Rajprasad visited Intaliguda Chhak in Kalyansinghpur to review the situation, met individuals who rescued the victim, and commended their intervention. Additional police forces have been deployed to maintain law and order and prevent further unrest.

Authorities have urged the public not to circulate rumours, warning of strict action against those spreading misinformation.

SIPs and Equities Dominate 80 pc of Digital Investors’ Wealth in India

New Delhi, June 23: Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) and equities together account for nearly 80% of the wealth held by digital investors in India, according to a recent report.

The findings highlight a strong preference among retail investors for market-linked instruments, reflecting growing financial awareness and increasing participation in capital markets through digital platforms.

The report notes that SIPs have become a key entry point for long-term wealth creation, particularly among young and first-time investors. Equities, meanwhile, continue to attract significant interest due to their potential for higher returns compared to traditional savings instruments.

Experts attribute this trend to rising financial literacy, easier access to digital investment platforms, and a shift in investor behaviour towards disciplined, long-term investing. The growing adoption of fintech solutions has also made investing more convenient and transparent.

Analysts believe this shift indicates a structural change in India’s investment landscape, with more individuals moving away from traditional savings and toward diversified, market-linked portfolios.

Overall, the report underscores the increasing dominance of SIPs and equities in shaping the wealth-building strategies of India’s digital investor base.

Odisha Updates English Spellings of Key Cities and Towns to Reflect Authentic Odia Pronunciation

Bhubaneswar, June 23 (UDN): The Odisha Government has officially notified revised English spellings for several districts, towns, and administrative blocks across the state in an effort to better align them with their original Odia pronunciation and linguistic roots.

Representational image

Under the updated nomenclature, several prominent place names will now be represented in official English records as follows: Cuttack will be spelt as Kataka, Balasore as Baleshwar, Berhampur as Brahmapur, Khurda as Khordha, and Rourkela as Raurkela.

Officials said the decision has been taken to preserve Odisha’s linguistic heritage and ensure that government records, signage, and official communications more accurately reflect the authentic Odia names of places.

The revised spellings will be implemented across administrative documents, maps, and public communication systems in a phased manner by various government departments.

The move is expected to strengthen cultural identity and promote uniformity in the representation of place names across official platforms.

The government has not commented on public reactions yet, though the decision is likely to generate discussions among residents, historians, and language experts on its cultural and practical implications.