9, Nov 2026
El Niño 2026–27: why humanitarian airlift planning must start before the weather turns

Nov 09: One of the strongest El Niño events on record could peak towards the end of 2026. Cam Bolton-Wilson, Vice President of Government & Humanitarian – Americas at Chapman Freeborn, explains how severe weather disrupts humanitarian supply routes, what can be planned in advance and why aviation decisions made only after a crisis begins may already come too late.
The World Meteorological Organisation expects El Niño to reach very strong intensity before peaking towards the end of 2026 and to persist into early 2027. The resulting droughts, floods and crop damage could push 49 million more people into acute food insecurity, bringing the total to 274 million across 45 countries by the end of 2027, according to the World Food Programme.
For humanitarian aviation, the main concern is how many crises could unfold at the same time. Flooding in the southern United States, fire risk across the Amazon and food emergencies on several continents could all draw on the same pool of suitable aircraft, airport capacity and specialist resources. Aid agencies increasingly act on forecasts like these, and with good reason – WFP estimates that every US$1 invested in anticipatory action can result in up to US$7 in avoided losses.
From forecast to flight plan
Knowing that a storm is coming is useful, but planners need to know what it will do to the places aid has to pass through. Can the nearest airport stay open? Will aid be able to move onward from there, and how many people depend on the route in question?

“Forecasts give us a window to get our plans in order before we lose access,” Bolton-Wilson says. “If you start planning once that has already happened, it’s a race against the clock with far fewer options.”
What can be planned before a crisis
According to Bolton-Wilson, more can be done in advance than many organisations realise. Aircraft options, alternative airports, regional staging locations, operating permissions, indicative costs and mobilisation procedures can all be assessed before an emergency. Documenting these assessments also helps organisations justify early investment of time and resources.
One option Chapman Freeborn is currently assessing is a retained aviation readiness arrangement. Such a model could combine data-driven risk monitoring with aviation specialists supporting an organisation’s crisis management team remotely. If developed, this approach could allow commercial terms and activation procedures to be agreed in advance, while keeping the final aircraft selection, routing and deployment timing flexible as conditions develop.
Common planning mistakes
Securing an aircraft does not mean the logistics problem has been solved. Aid still depends on permits, ground handling, fuel, functioning local infrastructure and transport waiting at the destination. Conditions can also remain unpredictable for hours or days after the immediate event has passed.
Planning is further complicated by regional conflicts and airspace closures, which can force longer routings and increase operating costs. Humanitarian flights already face limited budgets, while fuel shortages and sharp fluctuations in jet fuel prices can make urgent operations even more difficult to fund and execute.
Another common pitfall is the tendency to wait for absolute certainty. For example, early warning systems had flagged a likely food crisis in the Horn of Africa in August 2010. However, substantial response only started in July 2011, once famine had been officially declared in Somalia. A report published by Oxfam and Save the Children concluded that risk aversion had delayed the effort by six months.

While anticipatory action is becoming more common across the humanitarian sector, aviation is still often treated as a reactive procurement need. Bolton-Wilson believes it should be integrated into preparedness planning from the beginning.
When Hurricane Melissa approached Jamaica in October 2025, Chapman Freeborn began preparing before the storm made landfall. The team checked aircraft availability in the region and adapted the response as conditions developed. The operation ultimately involved fixed-wing flights for personnel, specialist helicopters and an Antonov AN-12 carrying critical communications equipment.
“The key was sourcing the right aircraft for each stage,” Bolton-Wilson says. “The AN-12 proved particularly useful because it loads from the rear and carries its own cargo-handling equipment, giving the team greater flexibility at airports already under strain.”
The last few miles
It is often easier to get aid into a country than to move it from the airport to the communities that need it. An aircraft may land on schedule, but damaged roads, fuel shortages, limited handling equipment or a lack of onward transport can prevent the cargo from reaching its destination.
A well-documented example of this is the Haiti earthquake relief in 2010, when aircraft carrying half of a Norwegian field hospital landed in Port-au-Prince, whereas the other half got diverted to the Dominican Republic and had to be transported over mountainous terrain, delaying the opening of one of Haiti’s first post-quake field hospitals.
“Humanitarian airlift works best when the whole journey is planned together, from the first flight into the country to the final delivery. A widebody freighter may establish an international air bridge, while regional aircraft, helicopters or potentially unmanned cargo platforms support onward distribution. Our team is also assessing how emerging air mobility technologies could reach isolated communities, deliver low-volume, high-impact goods such as medicines and improve situational awareness,” Bolton-Wilson says.
Scheduled flights or charter?
Whether scheduled flights will do or a charter is needed depends on the mission, Bolton-Wilson says. Planners must consider how quickly the goods are needed, their size and handling requirements, whether the destination can still accommodate aircraft and how long the response is likely to continue.
If scheduled services cannot provide the necessary speed, reliability, flexibility or reach, a dedicated charter may become the more suitable option. A large response may combine commercial services, dedicated freighters, passenger aircraft carrying relief personnel and helicopters rather than relying on a single solution. These operations work best when every requirement is coordinated by one team, allowing each flight to be planned as part of the wider response rather than as an isolated movement.
Local reach and integrated airlift
Building an effective response requires both local knowledge and central coordination. A globally distributed aviation services organisation with offices in or near potentially affected regions can assess airport conditions, permits, ground handling, fuel and onward transport as circumstances change.
Brokerage experience adds value by turning separate capacity options into an integrated airlift solution. Experienced brokers can determine how scheduled services, dedicated charters, passenger aircraft, helicopters and other modes should work together across different stages of the response, rather than treating each movement as an isolated flight.
What to do before El Niño peaks
With El Niño expected to peak within months, what should organisations be doing now? Bolton-Wilson’s advice is to move from monitoring to preparation. Organisations can start by mapping the regions most at risk and checking the transport links into them. From there, they can review the stocks already in place and work through aviation scenarios for the needs most likely to arise.
Timing matters more than usual this season. If emergencies hit several regions at once, suitable aircraft, airport capacity and specialist staff could quickly run short. One option Chapman Freeborn is currently assessing is a retained aviation readiness arrangement, with commercial terms and activation procedures agreed in advance while aircraft and routes remain flexible.
“A forecast gives you time. We want to help our partners use that time well, so that when the need becomes clear, the right aircraft can be on its way as quickly as possible,” Bolton-Wilson says.
- 0
- By Neel Achary
9, Nov 2026
Chennai Diwali Celebration: Stunning Fireworks Light Up City Skyline, Video Goes Viral
Chennai, Nov 9 (UDN): The night sky over Chennai turned into a spectacular display of colours and lights as fireworks illuminated the Tamil Nadu capital during Diwali celebrations, captivating viewers across social media.
A stunning video showcasing the city’s festive skyline has gained attention on Instagram, offering a breathtaking glimpse of how the Festival of Lights transformed Chennai after sunset.
Shared by a content creator on November 7, the video captures numerous fireworks exploding across the city’s skyline in brilliant bursts of colour. Bright flashes lit up the night, creating a dazzling visual spectacle that reflected the festive enthusiasm of residents.
The creator shared the footage with the caption, “This is how Chennai looks on Diwali night”, drawing attention to the scale and vibrancy of the celebrations.
Diwali is traditionally celebrated with illuminated homes, decorative lamps, colourful rangolis and fireworks. However, the video captures the festivities from a wider perspective, presenting an entire cityscape glowing against the darkness.
The sweeping visuals provide a striking contrast to the usual neighbourhood-level celebrations, with fireworks lighting up different parts of the skyline and creating an unforgettable festive atmosphere.
The video has added to the growing collection of Diwali moments being shared online from across the country, showcasing how people in different cities marked the occasion with enthusiasm and traditional celebrations.
Chennai’s sparkling nightscape serves as a colourful reminder of the festive spirit that brings communities together during India’s much-loved Festival of Lights.
9, Nov 2026
Bay of Bengal Low Pressure Likely Around November 13, Tamil Nadu and South India May Receive Rain
Bhubaneswar, Nov 9 (UDN): Weather activity over the Bay of Bengal may intensify next week, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting the possibility of a fresh low-pressure system developing over the southeast Bay of Bengal around November 13.
Representational Image
According to the IMD’s extended-range weather outlook for November 6–19, a cyclonic circulation is likely to emerge over the southeast Bay of Bengal and adjoining Andaman Sea around November 11.
The weather system may subsequently concentrate into a low-pressure area over the southeast Bay of Bengal by November 13. There is also a possibility, although currently assessed as low, of the system intensifying into a depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal around November 15.
If the system develops as anticipated, rainfall activity could increase across parts of South India during the week beginning November 16. Tamil Nadu and neighbouring regions are likely to remain under close weather watch as the system evolves.
However, meteorologists are yet to establish the system’s eventual movement, intensity and geographical impact. The IMD is expected to provide a clearer assessment as the weather system takes shape over the coming days.
Odisha’s Weather Situation Under Watch
The possibility of another low-pressure system has drawn attention in Odisha, which recently experienced heavy rainfall and flooding in several areas, particularly in its southern districts.
The state had also witnessed adverse weather conditions following the recent cyclonic developments over the Bay of Bengal and adjoining coastal regions.
However, there is currently no clear indication that the developing system will bring significant rainfall to Odisha. Its possible influence on the state’s weather will depend on its eventual trajectory and intensity.
Not Yet a Confirmed Cyclone
The IMD’s latest outlook indicates the possibility of a low-pressure area developing over the Bay of Bengal, rather than a confirmed cyclone.
While the system could strengthen into a depression, such an intensification remains uncertain at this stage.
Residents across coastal and southern regions are advised to follow subsequent IMD bulletins for updated information on the system’s development and potential weather impacts.
9, Nov 2026
Liv by Emirates NBD, Universal and Aquanow to deliver the first integration of a CBUAE-registered USD-backed stablecoin into the UAE digital banking ecosystem

Dubai, UAE, Nov 09: Liv, the UAE’s first and largest digital bank by Emirates NBD, a leading banking group in the Middle East, North Africa, Türkiye and South Asia (MENATSA) region, has partnered with Universal Digital Intl Ltd (Universal) and Aquanow ME FZE (Aquanow) to introduce USDU, the UAE’s first Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE)-registered USD-backed stablecoin, into the Liv ecosystem.
Universal is the issuer of USDU, registered by the Central Bank of the UAE under its Payment Token Services Regulation (PTSR). Aquanow is the regulated digital asset infrastructure partner behind both USDU distribution and Liv X crypto trading. This partnership marks a major milestone in the evolution of regional digital banking and the convergence of traditional and digital finance.
Following the launch of crypto trading through Liv X in 2025, this initiative extends Liv’s digital asset proposition into a fully regulated, USD-denominated digital asset. This integration allows customers to seamlessly manage both their traditional banking activities and digital asset portfolios within a single, highly secure and familiar environment.
The introduction of USDU provides Liv by Emirates NBD customers access to a USD-denominated digital asset issued under one of the region’s most comprehensive regulatory frameworks. Registered by the CBUAE and issued by Universal, USDU is backed by 1:1 physical US dollar reserves, safeguarded with UAE banks and verified through publicly available monthly attestations.
The integration is powered by Aquanow’s institutional-grade infrastructure, providing the liquidity and digital asset rails underpinning both USDU distribution and Liv X. Having processed over USD 130 billion in trading volume, Aquanow delivers the scale and resilience required for institutional digital asset services.
Rohit Garg, Group Head of Retail Products and Chief Digital Officer of Retail Banking and Wealth Management, Emirates NBD, said: “Emirates NBD continues to champion financial innovation that aligns with the goals of UAE’s progressive digital economy. By integrating the CBUAE-registered USDU stablecoin into the Liv ecosystem, we are not only expanding our digital asset capabilities, but also offering our customers a secure, transparent and regulated bridge to digital assets within their everyday banking app. Building on the momentum of our crypto trading launch in 2025, this strategic partnership with Universal and Aquanow empowers our customers to participate in the digital asset economy within a trusted, world-class banking environment.”
Phil Sham, CEO, Aquanow, said: “Aquanow’s role is to make regulated digital asset access work at bank-grade standards. Powering both USDU distribution and Liv X trading in a single stack is exactly the kind of integrated infrastructure the UAE market has been building toward: a CBUAE-registered stablecoin, a VARA-licensed broker-dealer and one of the region’s largest digital banks, working end-to-end within regulated rails.”
Juha Viitala, Senior Executive Officer, Universal, said: “USDU was built to bring transparent, USD-backed settlement into UAE regulatory frameworks. Seeing it become the first USD-backed token that Liv customers can trade, inside the app they already bank with, and through Aquanow’s VARA-licensed infrastructure, shows what happens when a CBUAE-registered digital asset meets a regulated distribution partner and a bank willing to lead. This is what bank-grade stablecoin infrastructure looks like when it reaches the customer.”
To mark the launch and accelerate customer onboarding, Liv by Emirates NBD is introducing a three-month promotional campaign offering customers zero-fee crypto trading for ninety days, serving as an accelerator to welcome both new and experienced users to the enhanced platform.
9, Nov 2026
Odisha Bigyan Academy Awards 2024: Eminent Scientists Honoured
Bhubaneswar, Nov 9 (UDN): Recognising outstanding contributions to scientific research and innovation, the Odisha Bigyan Academy, under the Science and Technology Department, organised its annual award investiture ceremony for 2024 at Jayadev Bhawan in Bhubaneswar on Monday.
Science and Technology Minister Krushna Chandra Patra attended the programme as the chief guest and presented awards to eminent scientists and researchers from Odisha for their achievements across various fields of science.
The ceremony was presided over by Odisha Bigyan Academy President Sibani Mohanty. Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary Deoranjan Kumar Singh and Additional Chief Secretary of the Science and Technology Department and Director General of Gopabandhu Academy of Administration, Chithra Arumugam, attended as guests of honour.
Distinguished Scientists Recognised
Five eminent personalities — Dr. Lala Aswini Kumar Singh, Dr. Sudhakar Kar, Prof. Rabindra Kumar Panda, Prof. Prafulla Kumar Mohanty and Prof. Bijay Kumar Mishra — were honoured with the Senior Scientist of Odisha recognition. Each received a memento, citation and uttariya in appreciation of their contributions to science.
Biju Patnaik Award for Scientific Excellence
Dr. Surendra Kumar Biswal received the prestigious Biju Patnaik Award for Scientific Excellence, one of the highest recognitions presented at the ceremony.
The award carries a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh, along with a gold-coated silver medallion, memento, certificate, citation and uttariya.
Samanta Chandra Sekhar Awards
Recognising significant research contributions, the Samanta Chandra Sekhar Award was presented to Prof. Umakanta Subudhi, Prof. Subhankar Bedanta and Prof. Jagadish Chandra Paul for their research work within Odisha.
Prof. Raghunath Sahoo received the same honour for his research contributions outside the state. Each recipient was awarded Rs 1 lakh, along with a medallion, memento and citation.
Young Researchers Encouraged
The Odisha Young Scientist Awards recognised emerging research talent, with Dr. Chita Ranjan Sahoo, Dr. Rudra Majhi and Dr. Ram Prasad Padhy honoured for their research within Odisha.
Dr. Rabindra Mohanty received the award for his scientific work outside the state. Each awardee received a cash prize of Rs 25,000.
Recognition for Popular Science Writing
The Prana Krushna Parija Popular Science Book Award was conferred on Prof. Bhagaban Patra in the General Category and Dr. Krutibas Nayak in the Children’s Category. Both received cash awards of Rs 25,000.
The ceremony highlighted the contributions of established scientists, promising young researchers and science communicators, while recognising the importance of research and scientific awareness in the state’s development.
The programme was hosted by Anuja Tarini Mishra, while Deputy Secretary of the Science and Technology Department Urmiprava Maharana delivered the vote of thanks.
9, Nov 2026
Amit Shah Likely To Visit Odisha On November 28
Bhubaneswar, Nov 9 (UDN): Union Home Minister Amit Shah is likely to visit Odisha on November 28, State Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan said on Monday.

Representational Image
Although the proposed visit is yet to receive official confirmation, Shah is expected to attend a series of government and party-related programmes during his stay in the State.
Speaking about the proposed visit, Harichandan indicated that the Home Minister may participate in official engagements as well as organisational activities of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Focus On Government And Party Programmes
Shah’s likely visit is expected to include meetings and interactions related to both administrative matters and the BJP’s organisational activities in Odisha.
The proposed engagements are also likely to provide an opportunity for discussions with senior party leaders on organisational issues and the party’s future strategy in the State.
Official Schedule Awaited
The visit is being viewed as politically significant for the BJP in Odisha, given Shah’s role in the party’s national leadership.
However, the detailed itinerary, including the venues and schedule of his engagements, is yet to be announced. Further clarity is expected once the official programme is finalised.
9, Nov 2026
Linette crowned champion as Chennai Open concludes its final edition in India

Chennai, Tamil Nadu, November 9, 2026: Magda Linette brought the curtain down on the Chennai Open’s journey in India with a remarkable comeback, fighting back from a set down to defeat defending champion Janice Tjen 5-7, 6-1, 6-4 in the singles final here at the SDAT Tennis Stadium on Monday. The Polish third seed completed the turnaround in two hours and 43 minutes, converting her first championship point to claim her fourth career WTA singles title and first of the 2026 season.
The final began at a high intensity, with Tjen showing the form that had brought her the title in Chennai last year. The 24-year-old Indonesian, currently ranked World no. 75, edged a closely contested opening set 7-5. Linette, ranked number 68 in the world, responded emphatically in the second, raising her level to take the set 6-1 and force a decider.
The turnaround was another demonstration of Linette’s resilience across the tournament. The 34-year-old Pole, who reached a career-high ranking of World no.19 in March 2023, came from a set down in each of her last three matches in Chennai to claim the title.
Linette’s all-round game was central to her turnaround. She served effectively, struck strong and deep groundstrokes, and was equally assured at the net with her volleys and smashes. A key tactical feature was the depth she generated with her shots to counter Tjen’s backhand slice, preventing the Indonesian from using it to disrupt rallies and dictate play. The players also had to contend with particularly hot conditions in Chennai.
The deciding set saw Linette move ahead 3-1 after breaking Tjen’s serve. The Indonesian fought back, breaking Linette in the sixth game to level the score at 3-3. However, the Pole immediately regained the advantage with another break in the seventh game. The 2023 Australian Open semi-finalist then showcased her touch and court awareness, drawing Tjen forward with a drop shot, sending her back with a lob before bringing her forward again with another drop shot, and finally finishing the rally with a backhand winner down the line. Serving at 5-4, she earned three championship points and converted the first to complete the victory.
The final was the first meeting between the two players on the WTA Tour. Tjen had arrived in Chennai looking to defend the title that brought her maiden WTA singles crown in 2025. That victory made her the first Indonesian woman in 23 years to win a WTA singles title. She reached a career-high ranking of World no. 35 in August 2026 and was bidding to add a second WTA singles title to her record.
The singles final was originally scheduled for Sunday, November 8, but was postponed to Monday, November 9, at 11AM due to rain and prevailing air quality conditions at the venue. Heavy smoke following Diwali fireworks had affected conditions at the SDAT Tennis Stadium, leading the organisers to reschedule the match.
For her title-winning performance, Linette received US$37,390 (approximately ₹35.13 lakh) and 250 ranking points. Tjen took home US$22,125 (approximately ₹20.78 lakh) and 163 ranking points as the runner-up.
The prizes were presented by TNTA President Vijay Amritraj in the presence of Mr. H. Shanker, Managing Director, Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited; Ms. Mini T. M., Executive Director, Indian Bank; Mr. A. M. Banerjee, Chief General Manager, Indian Overseas Bank; and officials from the TNTA and the WTA.
The 2026 edition marked the conclusion of the Chennai Open’s association with India, with the tournament set to move to the Philippines in 2027.
SINGLES – FINALS RESULT
[3] Magda Linette (POL) def. [1] Janice Tjen (INA) 5-7, 6-1, 6-4
9, Nov 2026
THE 50 BEST VINEYARDS REVEALS THE 51-100 LIST FOR 2026
LONDON, Nov. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The 50 Best Vineyards reveals the vineyards ranked No.51 to No.100 this year, ahead of the official awards ceremony in Santiago, Chile on 18 November. The extended list showcases leading wine tourism destinations across six continents and 20 destinations, voted for by The 50 Best Vineyards Academy, a global panel of more than 700 wine and travel experts.
- The 51-100 list includes vineyards from 36 wine regions across the world
- 34 of the vineyards are in Europe, followed by five in South America, five in North America, four in Oceania, and one each in Africa and Asia
- There are 17 new entries from 15 different wine regions
- 12 vineyards return to the ranking as re-entries
For the full 51-100 list, please see here.
Europe dominates the 51-100 list with 34 vineyards, including 13 new entries. France leads with 14 vineyards featured, eight of them new to the ranking. Among them is Château & Domaine de Briante in Beaujolais (No.51), the highest new entry.
Vineyards in Portugal and Italy each secure four places, including new entry G.D. Vajra in Barolo (No.58). England records three entries from Sussex, while Georgia’s Château Mukhrani in Kartli (No.55) achieves the highest rise among returning vineyards, climbing 20 places. New entries also include Sauska in Tokaj (No.74) and Santo Wines in Santorini (No.100).
South America welcomes two new entries with Susana Balbo Wines in Mendoza (No.80) and Haras de Pirque in Chile’s Maipo Valley (No.84). The United States records its strongest ever showing, with four vineyards featured. Canada is represented by Mission Hill Family Estate in Okanagan Valley (No.69).
Oceania features four vineyards across Australia and New Zealand. Vineyards in Africa and Asia each secure one place in this year’s list: Babylonstoren in Franschhoek (No.89) and Silver Heights in Helan (No.94).
Rikki Tidball, Managing Director of Awards & Rankings for The 50 Best Vineyards, says: “The vineyards featured in this year’s 51-100 list show that world-class wine tourism can be found in every corner of the globe. From historic houses in Champagne and Bordeaux to pioneering vineyards in China and Georgia, these destinations offer visitors a compelling sense of place alongside outstanding hospitality.”
The 50 Best Vineyards 2026 announcement can be followed via The 50 Best Vineyards social media channels on 18 November.
Media centre:
https://mediacentre.the50.com/
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/the-50-best-vineyards-reveals-the-51-100-list-for-2026-302932298.html

9, Nov 2026
VP C P Radhakrishnan to Visit Odisha on November 15 for MLA Orientation
Bhubaneswar, Nov 9 (UDN): Vice-President of India C P Radhakrishnan is scheduled to arrive in Odisha on November 15 for a two-day official visit, during which he will inaugurate a special orientation programme for newly elected legislators.
The programme will be held at the Odisha Legislative Assembly on November 16 and is designed to familiarise MLAs with the procedures, responsibilities and functioning of the legislature.
The training will place particular emphasis on first-time legislators, helping them understand constitutional provisions, Assembly rules and established legislative practices. It will also guide members on effectively participating in Question Hour, raising issues of public importance and performing their duties as elected representatives.
The Vice-President’s interaction with the legislators is expected to provide valuable insights into parliamentary traditions, democratic institutions and constitutional responsibilities.
Programme Ahead Of Winter Session
The orientation programme comes at an important time, with the winter session of the Odisha Legislative Assembly scheduled to commence on November 18. The session is set to continue until December 31.
The initiative is expected to help legislators prepare for the upcoming session by strengthening their understanding of legislative procedures and the role of elected representatives in the democratic process.
Detailed Itinerary Awaited
While the Vice-President’s arrival in Odisha is scheduled for November 15, the detailed itinerary of his two-day visit has not yet been finalised.
His scheduled engagement at the Assembly on November 16 will be a key highlight of the visit.
9, Nov 2026
Odisha’s Ranjan Mohanty Appointed International Judge of World Fitness Federation
Puri, Nov 9 (UDN): Bringing laurels to Odisha on the international stage, Puri-based fitness enthusiast and bodybuilding professional Ranjan Mohanty has been appointed an International Judge of the World Fitness Federation (WFF).
Representational Image
The recognition marks a significant milestone in Mohanty’s nearly three-decade-long journey in bodybuilding and fitness. His appointment reflects years of dedication, perseverance and active involvement in the sport.
International Recognition At Thailand Championship
Mohanty received the prestigious WFF International Judge certification and badge from federation’s World President Graham Lansfield during the WFF South East Asian Championship held in Pattaya, Thailand, on October 25, 2026.
Speaking about the achievement, Mohanty said that becoming an international judge requires formal recognition and certification from the federation, unlike the opportunities available to judges at regular competitions.
“Judging opportunities are available at almost every competition, but to serve as an international judge, one must receive formal recognition and certification from the federation. I received this certification at the WFF South East Asian Championship held in Pattaya, Thailand,” he said.
He described the appointment as an important achievement in his long association with bodybuilding and fitness.
Indian Contingent Delivers Impressive Performance
Mohanty travelled to Thailand as part of the Indian contingent alongside Dhiraj Mohan, President of WFF India.
The Indian athletes delivered an impressive performance at the championship, securing two Pro Cards and three gold medals, making the international event a memorable outing for the team.
Expressing his happiness over the team’s success, Mohanty said the achievements of Indian athletes made the occasion particularly special.
“Our athletes performed exceptionally well, winning two Pro Cards and three gold medals. It was a proud moment for the Indian team, and I was honoured to receive my International Judge certification at the same event,” he added.
Nearly 30 Years Of Dedication To Fitness
Mohanty’s appointment is being seen as an important recognition of his long-standing contribution to bodybuilding and fitness. With nearly 30 years of experience in the field, he has now earned an opportunity to contribute to the sport at the international judging level.
His achievement has brought recognition to Puri and Odisha, while highlighting the growing presence of Indian fitness professionals in international bodybuilding platforms.
The international certification is a significant step in Mohanty’s sporting journey, opening the door to judging responsibilities at WFF competitions across the world.