Gold Market Sees Major Correction as Prices of Gold and Silver Drop

Bhubaneswar, June 26 (UDN): In a major relief for consumers and jewellery buyers, gold and silver prices witnessed a significant decline in domestic markets on Thursday, raising hopes of increased demand ahead of the upcoming festive and wedding seasons.

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Market sources said the prices of both precious metals registered a sharp correction amid fluctuations in global bullion markets, easing concerns among consumers who had deferred purchases due to soaring rates in recent months.

Jewellers said the decline in prices is expected to boost retail demand, particularly among customers planning purchases for weddings, festivals and investment purposes. Traders are optimistic that the correction in rates will revive market sentiment and improve sales in the coming weeks.

Industry experts attributed the fall in prices to a combination of factors, including changing global economic indicators, fluctuations in international bullion prices, movements in the US dollar and investor sentiment in global markets.

While market analysts expect some volatility in the near term, they advised consumers and investors to closely monitor price trends before making large purchases or investment decisions.

Jewellery traders across several cities reported an increase in customer inquiries following the price drop, with many buyers viewing the correction as an opportune time to invest in precious metals.

Market observers said future price movements would largely depend on international market trends, geopolitical developments and monetary policy decisions by major central banks.

India Wins 24 Medals at ISSF Junior World Championship 2026

New Delhi, June 26: India delivered a strong performance at the ISSF Junior World Championship 2026, securing a total of 24 medals, officials said.

The Indian contingent showed consistent performance across rifle, pistol, and shotgun events, reflecting the growing depth of junior shooting talent in the country.

Coaches and officials attributed the success to structured training programmes, improved infrastructure, and increased exposure to international competitions, which have helped young athletes perform confidently at the global level.

Sports authorities said the achievement highlights India’s rising presence in international shooting and the strength of its talent development system.

The performance is expected to boost morale ahead of upcoming international events and strengthen India’s prospects in senior-level competitions.

From Belpahar Stage to National School of Drama: Sonia Behera Scripts History

Belpahar, Jharsuguda, June 26 (UDN): What began as a young girl’s fascination with a stage performance at a school function in Belpahar has culminated in a historic achievement for Odisha’s theatre community. Twenty-five-year-old Sonia Behera has become the first woman from the state to secure admission to the prestigious three-year Diploma in Dramatics programme at the National School of Drama (NSD), New Delhi.

Sonia secured the eighth rank in the All India merit list after scoring 80.05 percentile in the highly competitive admission process. The selection involved multiple stages, including preliminary screening, intensive theatre workshops, practical assessments and personal interviews conducted at the NSD campus in New Delhi between June 14 and 19.

For Sonia, the achievement marks the fulfilment of a dream she had never envisioned when she first stepped into the world of theatre.

“I feel immensely proud. When I started performing, I had never imagined that I would one day study at the National School of Drama. It still feels surreal,” she said.

The eldest among five siblings, Sonia’s journey in theatre began in 2015 after she watched the acclaimed play Lal Paen during a school event in Belpahar. The performance, staged by Jharsuguda-based Mirror Theatre Group, left a profound impact on her and inspired her to join the troupe later that year.

Over the past eleven years, Sonia has established herself as a versatile theatre artiste, performing in several acclaimed productions, including Lal Paen, ULPI, April-27, Badakha Dada, Pachen, Ramadevi, Tor Jhumka, Tor Kiriya, Bhokara Aneka Ranga and Panata Kani.

She also played the lead role in Kaenjuri, a landmark production that entered the record books for a continuous performance lasting 49 hours, 48 minutes and 12 seconds. Her performances in Lal Paen and ULPI, staged across Odisha and other parts of the country, earned her national recognition.

Sonia credited her mother for encouraging her to pursue theatre despite the uncertainties associated with the profession. She also acknowledged the unwavering support and mentorship of Mirror Theatre founder-director Dr Subash Chandra Pradhan and senior members of the troupe, whom she described as instrumental in shaping her artistic journey.

Describing Sonia’s selection as a proud moment for the state, Dr Pradhan said her success demonstrates that talent from smaller towns can compete at the highest level when nurtured with dedication and proper guidance.

Sonia hopes her achievement will inspire aspiring artistes, particularly young women from rural and small-town backgrounds, to pursue their passion fearlessly and believe that national platforms are within their reach.

Operation Amistad: India Deploys Aid Team to Venezuela

New Delhi, June 26: An Indian Army humanitarian assistance team has been deployed to Venezuela under Operation Amistad to support relief efforts following a devastating earthquake in the country.

The team will assist local authorities in ongoing rescue and relief operations and provide necessary humanitarian support to affected populations. Their role is expected to include coordination of relief activities, support in search and rescue efforts where required, and assistance in managing emergency response operations on the ground.

Officials said the deployment reflects India’s continued commitment to global humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, particularly in times of natural calamities affecting friendly nations.

The mission will be carried out in close coordination with Venezuelan authorities and other international agencies engaged in relief work to ensure effective and timely support to those impacted.