26, Oct 2026
Abu Dhabi Invests In The Next Generation Of Musical Talent With A New Dedicated Institution For The Youth Orchestra Abu Dhabi
A long-term pathway for young musicians through free access to world-class music education.
ABU DHABI, UAE, Oct. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) is proud to announce the establishment of a dedicated institution for the Youth Orchestra Abu Dhabi. The institution will form an integral part of Abu Dhabi’s music and performing arts landscape, advancing the emirate’s cultural vision to widen access to artistic excellence and build a vibrant cultural ecosystem for the future. It will provide free access to world-class music education programmes for aspiring young musicians.
Set to open in January 2027 in the Mina Zayed (MiZa) district, Youth Orchestra Abu Dhabi’s 600-seat concert hall and 18 rehearsal and practice rooms will provide a professional-standard environment for collective music-making. Enrollment for the first cohort of 100 students aged 6–9 is now open. Over the coming years, the programme will nurture young musicians through training in both Western classical and Arabic musical traditions. Additional ensembles for advanced students will be introduced during the first year of the programme.
The programme will establish long-term pathways for young people across the emirate to engage with music, develop their skills and progress over time.
His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “The Youth Orchestra Abu Dhabi is an important investment in our future and in our commitment to making culture and creativity accessible to all. Through its free-access to world-class music education programmes, we are creating opportunities for young people to discover their talent, develop their potential and experience the lifelong benefits that music can bring. Beyond technical ability, music fosters discipline, collaboration, creativity and confidence, qualities that shape well-rounded individuals, enrich communities and contribute to a more vibrant society.
“The Youth Orchestra Abu Dhabi will become both a platform for emerging talent and a cornerstone of the emirate’s growing cultural ecosystem. As Abu Dhabi continues to strengthen its position as a global centre for culture and creativity, and as a UNESCO Creative City of Music, institutions such as this ensure the next generation has every opportunity to participate in, contribute to and shape our cultural future, while preserving the rich musical traditions that form an important part of our heritage.”
The building has been designed by the late Frank Gehry, a pioneering figure in contemporary architecture and the architect of the recently announced performing arts institution Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi. His architectural contributions to Abu Dhabi also include the design of the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi in Saadiyat Cultural District.
Youth Orchestra Abu Dhabi reflects the emirate’s continued investment in creative talent, cultural participation and the performing arts, supporting personal development and fostering community connection through creative expression.
ABOUT DEPARTMENT OF CULTURE AND TOURISM – ABU DHABI
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors, fuels economic progress and helps achieve Abu Dhabi’s wider global ambitions. By working in partnership with the organisations that define the Emirate’s position as a leading international destination, Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the Emirate’s potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies and systems to support the culture and tourism industries.
Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi’s vision is defined by the Emirate’s people, heritage and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives and creative thought.
For more information about the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and the destination, please visit: dctabudhabi.ae and visitabudhabi.ae and abudhabiculture.ae
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26, Oct 2026
MRF Tyres Strengthens European Rally Dominance With Fourth Teams’ Championship Title

Fafe, Portugal, Oct 26: Team MRF Tyres has been crowned 2026 FIA European Rally Championship Teams’ Champion, completing another remarkable European campaign with a commanding performance at Rally 6 Cities North of Portugal. This is MRF Tyres fourth FIA European Rally Championship (ERC) Teams’ title in five years. Team MRF Tyres concluded the championship with 233 points, a commanding 98-point advantage over its closest rival.
The Indian manufacturer of premium competition tyres celebrated its fourth Teams’ Championship title, adding the 2026 crown to those secured in 2022, 2023 and 2025, while Mārtiņš Sesks and Renārs Francis delivered a spectacular overall victory in the final round of the season.
The four titles in five seasons highlight MRF Tyres’ sustained commitment to R&D-driven innovation and technical excellence in European rallying. Rallying provides a demanding environment to evaluate tyre compounds, tread patterns, construction and performance under varying terrain, temperatures, loads and driving conditions. Data on grip, traction, wear, heat generation and durability, combined with post-event tyre inspections and engineering analysis, helps identify performance gaps and refine tyre designs, material formulations and structural parameters. These insights support the development and validation of competition tyres and inform technologies that can be adapted for broader product applications. The Portuguese finale provided an emphatic demonstration of that potential. MRF Tyres-equipped crews claimed 16 fastest stage times from the rally’s 17 special stages with three different drivers, an exceptional statistic in an event featuring some of Europe’s most competitive Rally2 drivers.
The team featured an international line-up of drivers, including Mārtiņš Sesks, Roope Korhonen, Patrick Enok, Simone Tempestini, Andrei Gîrtofan, Nicolas Otto, Erik Cais, Martin Vlček, Frank Tore Larsen and Eyvind Brynildsen.
For the final round in Portugal, MRF Tyres fielded six crews across its official Team MRF Tyres and MRF Tyres Dealers Team programmes. The gravel stages around Fafe tested the crews and their tyres, bringing the season to a close.
“We worked a lot towards this,” said Mārtiņš Sesks. “Of course, it wasn’t easy for us and Roope today, as we both had some technical issues. The pace we were setting both yesterday and today meant we had to push really hard. Yesterday was all about giving everything from the beginning, while today was more about understanding what we could and couldn’t do. In the end, we played it safe, and it paid off. A huge thank you to MRF Tyres for their support and hard work. It’s just a shame we couldn’t bring home a one-two finish for the team.”
The 2026 championship adds to MRF Tyres’ record in European rallying as it continues to pursue further opportunities in international motorsport.
26, Oct 2026
Zimmer Biomet India Launches ROSA® Knee with OptimiZe™ in India to Advance Personalized Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement
NEW DELHI, Oct. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: ZBH) and (SIX: ZBH), a global medical technology leader, today announced the launch of ROSA® Knee with OptimiZe™ in India, an enhanced version of its ROSA® Knee System designed to support personalized robotic-assisted total knee replacement surgery. The technology combines customized surgical planning with new positioning, tracking and alignment features to help support accuracy and reduce user variability.
ROSA® Knee with OptimiZe™ features enhancements designed to support a more personalized surgical experience:
- OptimiZe Planning™: Creates customized surgical plans to guide implant positioning based on individual patient anatomy and the surgeon’s knee-balancing preferences.
- OptimiZe Landmarking™: Uses a bone-painting feature to help reduce user landmarking variability.
- OptimiZe Tracking™: Uses motion-sensitive Active Track™ technology to eliminate the need to pin the Cut Guide to the bone, allowing bone resections to remain on plane even with leg movement.
Commenting on the launch, Ajay Bagga, Managing Director and Country Head, Zimmer India Pvt. Ltd, said, “Orthopaedic care is moving towards more personalized approaches, with technology creating new opportunities to support surgical decision-making and address individual patient needs. Our focus is on bringing technologies to India that support surgeons in tailoring care to individual patients. The launch of ROSA® Knee with OptimiZe™ reflects our continued commitment to advancing robotic-assisted surgery, with tools designed to support greater consistency in surgical planning and execution.”
ROSA® Knee with OptimiZe™ also integrates with ZBEdge® Analytics, Zimmer Biomet’s data analytics platform, to provide surgeons with data-driven insights to support informed clinical decision-making.
The India launch builds on Zimmer Biomet’s continued investment in robotic-assisted technologies designed to support surgeons’ individual approaches to knee replacement surgery.
About Zimmer Biomet
Zimmer Biomet is a global medical technology leader with a comprehensive portfolio designed to maximize mobility and improve health. We seamlessly transform the patient’s experience through our innovative products and suite of integrated digital and robotic technologies that uncover insights from data, enabling surgeons to assess clinical decisions on patient recovery. In India, Zimmer Biomet’s presence also includes its Global Capability Center (GCC), reflecting the company’s continued commitment to the country. With 99 years of trusted leadership and proven expertise, Zimmer Biomet is positioned to deliver the highest quality solutions to patients and providers. Our legacy continues to come to life today through our progressive culture of evolution and innovation.
For more information about our product portfolio or about joining our team, visit http://www.zimmerbiomet.com or follow Zimmer Biomet on www.twitter.com/zimmerbiomet.
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26, Oct 2026
AUTOCRYPT Highlights V2X Security Technologies and C-ITS Research Initiatives at ITS World Congress 2026
SEOUL, South Korea, Oct. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — AUTOCRYPT, a leading Physical AI security solutions provider, showcased its comprehensive Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) security solutions, automotive cybersecurity testing technologies, and national Cooperative Intelligent Transportation Systems (C-ITS) research initiatives at ITS World Congress 2026, held from October 19-23 at Gangneung Olympic Park in South Korea.
As one of the world’s largest gatherings dedicated to Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS), ITS World Congress brings together global mobility leaders, transportation authorities, and industry experts. With the 2026 event hosted in South Korea, AUTOCRYPT highlighted its nationwide C-ITS security deployments across 10 locations spanning over 5,000 kilometers. These efforts include regional demonstration initiatives leveraging AutoCrypt PKI-PnC technology to enable secure authentication between electric vehicles and charging infrastructure, including a representative project in the Jeonnam-Gwangju region.
Beyond the exhibition, AUTOCRYPT representatives shared industry insights across three technical and strategic conference sessions addressing privacy-preserving V2X tolling, secure vehicle-infrastructure data exchange, and compliance with global automotive cybersecurity regulations and standards. These discussions reflected AUTOCRYPT’s continued commitment to industry collaboration in advancing secure and interoperable intelligent transportation systems.
“Securing the future of connected mobility requires robust infrastructure, practical validation, and close collaboration among stakeholders across the mobility ecosystem,” said Duksoo Kim, CEO of AUTOCRYPT. “Through our experience in national C-ITS projects and continued engagement with global industry partners, we aim to strengthen the cybersecurity foundations that support future transportation networks.”
AUTOCRYPT continues to advance its integrated cybersecurity solutions through real-world applications, ongoing research, and collaboration with industry organizations, extending its security expertise across the broader Physical AI ecosystem.
To learn more, visit autocrypt.io.
About AUTOCRYPT
AUTOCRYPT is a leading provider of Physical AI security solutions protecting autonomous and connected vehicles, EV charging infrastructure, robotics, defense, and bio-healthcare systems. Built on expertise in automotive cybersecurity engineering, penetration testing, security validation, and consulting, AUTOCRYPT delivers end-to-end cybersecurity throughout the system lifecycle. As the only designated automotive cybersecurity Technical Service (TS) provider in the Asia-Pacific region, the company supports OEMs and suppliers from development through post-production while enabling compliance with global standards. AUTOCRYPT is extending trusted security across vehicles, communications, and connected services to help shape the future of Physical AI security.
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26, Oct 2026
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem says Middle East Motorsport Volunteers, Officials are among world’s best
They are ‘the lifeblood of our sport, and without their dedication, professionalism and passion, there would simply be no racing or rallying’
Dubai, UAE, Oct 26: FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has paid tribute to the dedicated force of volunteers and officials in the UAE and across the Middle East for their key role in making the region a thriving hub for international motorsport.
With October designated as 2026 FIA Volunteers and Officials Month, Ben Sulayem has taken the opportunity to confirm that the heroes of motorsport in his home region deserve to be acknowledged for being amongst the best in the world.
And the FIA President has praised the UAE volunteers and officials who have performed admirably at the FIA Formula One Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and in the FIA World Rally-Raid Championship and the FIA World Baja Cup.
“Volunteers and officials are the lifeblood of our sport, and without their dedication, professionalism and passion, there would simply be no racing or rallying,” said FIA President Ben Sulayem.
“We launched the first Volunteers and Officials Month last year, and I’m delighted that we have come together across our Federation for a second time to recognise the vital role volunteers and officials play across our sport.”

Around the world, an army of volunteers and officials, including flag marshals and scrutineers, race directors and medical and rescue crews, play essential parts to ensure a huge calendar of FIA events, from Formula One to rallying, hill climbing and drifting, run safely, fairly and smoothly.
“I’m proud to acknowledge that the volunteers and officials who contribute so much time and effort to make motorsport happen across the Middle East are among the best the sport has,” said the FIA President.
“Our Member Clubs in the region work tirelessly to maintain the highest standards behind the scenes in motorsport. This has been highlighted by the commitment of the Emirates Motorsports Organization to ensure the hard work, dedication and efficiency that we’ve seen from marshals and officials at the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge and the Dubai International Baja.”
A landmark FIA study earlier this year revealed the true scale, value and dedication behind the crucial role of volunteers in the FIA Formula One World Championship.
Conducted by the FIA University, the Federation’s academic body, the first-of-its-kind research reveals that a minimum of 20,112 trained volunteers are required to staff all 24 rounds of the Formula One World Championship calendar each season.
An average of 838 volunteers operating at each individual race weekend represents a ratio of 42 for every F1 driver competing on track, the highest volunteer-to-competitor ratio of any global sport.
With each volunteer committing approximately 48 hours of dedicated service to each race weekend, that amounts to a remarkable 965,376 hours contributed to the world’s premier racing series across the full season.
The report highlights the depth of their commitment, with 65% of volunteers taking annual leave or unpaid time off to serve at events.
26, Oct 2026
Kartika Month Begins in Puri: Special Facilities for 2,400 Habishyalis, 15 Police Platoons to Be Deployed
Puri, Oct 26: The holy month of Kartika began on Monday, drawing large numbers of devotees to the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri to seek the blessings of Lord Jagannath, who is being worshipped in his Radha Damodar Besha during the sacred period. The first day also coincided with Kartika Somabar, adding to the religious significance of the occasion.

Representational Image
Hundreds of women, popularly known as Habishyalis, have arrived in the pilgrim town to observe the month-long Habisha Brata. To support their religious observances, the Puri district administration has made arrangements for accommodation, meals, security and temple darshan.
Around 2,400 Habishyalis are expected to receive facilities at designated camps during the month-long observance, which will continue until November 24.
Special Arrangements for Habishyalis
The district administration has put in place several measures to make the stay of Habishyalis more comfortable and ensure their safety. Separate accommodation facilities and meal arrangements have been organised, while a dedicated queue has been arranged at the Jagannath Temple to facilitate darshan.
Barricades have also been installed around sacred ponds to regulate bathing and minimise the risk of accidents. Officials and volunteers have been asked to assist the women staying at the camps and ensure that necessary support is available throughout their pilgrimage.
Puri Collector Dibya Jyoti Parida has urged volunteers to consider serving the Habishyalis a sacred responsibility and extend their full cooperation during the Kartika month.
Security Tightened Across the Pilgrim Town
With a significant increase in the number of devotees expected, the police administration has strengthened security arrangements in Puri. According to the report, 15 platoons of police personnel will be deployed to manage crowds and maintain law and order.
Authorities are also focusing on crowd regulation at the temple and safety arrangements at bathing locations. These measures are intended to help devotees complete their religious observances while reducing congestion and preventing untoward incidents.
Elderly Devotees Seek Smoother Darshan
Despite the arrangements, the heavy rush at the Srimandir has reportedly made darshan challenging for some devotees, particularly elderly women observing Habisha Brata.
An 81-year-old Habishyali expressed concern about entering the crowded temple premises and appealed to the administration to make additional provisions for senior citizens and women observing the month-long ritual.
At the same time, other devotees expressed happiness at being able to offer prayers on the opening day of Kartika. One Habishyali said she felt blessed to have darshan of the sibling deities and reaffirmed her commitment to following the traditional rituals throughout the month.
Devotion Marks the Beginning of Kartika
Kartika holds special religious significance for devotees, many of whom observe fasting, prayers and other spiritual practices during the month. The Radha Damodar Besha of Lord Jagannath is among the major attractions at the Srimandir during this period, drawing devotees from different parts of Odisha and beyond.
With the month-long observance now underway, the district administration faces the task of balancing the large influx of pilgrims with the need for safe movement, orderly darshan and adequate facilities for Habishyalis.
The arrangements are expected to remain central to crowd management and pilgrim welfare in Puri until the conclusion of Habisha Brata on November 24.
26, Oct 2026
Cyclone Arnab’s Changing Track Raises Odisha Concerns; 8 NDRF Teams Deployed
Bhubaneswar, Oct 26: Uncertainty over the projected movement of Cyclone Arnab has heightened concerns in Odisha, with five districts expected to face the impact of heavy rainfall and strong winds as the weather system approaches the eastern coast. The cyclone is forecast to make landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast on October 28, but authorities remain alert to possible changes in its trajectory.
Representational Image
According to reports based on meteorological updates, the system may move towards the Andhra Pradesh coast before potentially changing direction and affecting parts of Odisha. The evolving forecast has prompted the state government to intensify preparations, particularly in southern districts considered vulnerable to severe weather.
The deep depression over the Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into a cyclonic storm on Monday, October 26. Rainfall and strong winds are likely to affect parts of Odisha from October 27, with conditions potentially worsening as the system approaches land.
Eight NDRF Teams Mobilised Across Odisha
As part of the preparedness measures, eight teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed across vulnerable areas to respond to emergencies.
The teams have been positioned in six districts: Koraput, Malkangiri, Rayagada, Gajapati, Jagatsinghpur and Puri. Ganjam has been assigned two teams to strengthen the response capacity in an area facing potential weather-related risks.
The deployment is intended to ensure that rescue personnel can respond promptly to emergencies, including flooding, damage caused by strong winds and the need to evacuate people from vulnerable locations.
Authorities are keeping a close watch on southern Odisha, where at least five districts are expected to face significant weather impacts. Wind speeds associated with the approaching system could reach up to 140 kmph, according to the supplied report.
Suresh Pujari Reviews Preparedness Measures
Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said the system was expected to make landfall near Visakhapatnam on October 28 before moving south-westwards, potentially affecting Andhra Pradesh and Odisha with heavy rainfall and strong winds.
The minister said senior officers and state ministers had been assigned to vulnerable districts to supervise preparedness and coordinate response measures.
Arrangements have also been made for relief centres, cooked food, medicines and healthcare services to support people who may need assistance during the emergency.
Pujari urged residents not to panic and advised them to follow instructions issued by the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC). He also stressed the importance of protecting vulnerable family members and shifting to designated relief centres whenever authorities advise evacuation.
The government’s stated objective is to manage the situation while preventing loss of life.
Changing Forecast Keeps Authorities on Alert
The possibility of a change in the cyclone’s path remains a key concern for disaster management officials. Although the current projection points to landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast, any subsequent shift could alter the areas exposed to intense rainfall and strong winds.
Even without a direct landfall in Odisha, the state could experience adverse weather as the system moves across the region. Heavy rainfall may disrupt transport, affect low-lying areas and create difficulties for communities in vulnerable locations.
Officials are therefore preparing for possible emergencies while monitoring updates on the system’s intensity, direction and expected landfall.
Residents Urged to Follow Official Advisories
Residents in potentially affected districts have been advised to remain alert and follow weather bulletins and instructions issued by the IMD and local administrations.
People should avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather, stay away from flooded areas and water bodies, and cooperate with evacuation instructions if issued. Fishermen and those involved in marine activities should strictly follow official safety advisories.
With October 28 approaching, Odisha’s preparedness will depend on timely weather updates, coordinated emergency response and public cooperation. Authorities continue to monitor the developing system as they prepare to minimise the potential impact on vulnerable communities.
26, Oct 2026
Cyclone ‘Arnab’ Threat Intensifies: Odisha on High Alert, Five Districts Face Heavy Rain Risk
Bhubaneswar, Oct 26: Odisha has stepped up its preparedness as a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into Cyclone ‘Arnab’, with the system likely to make landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast on October 28. Although Andhra Pradesh is projected to face the direct impact, several districts of Odisha remain at risk of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall and adverse weather conditions.

Representational Image
According to the latest information in the supplied report, the system may cross the coast between Visakhapatnam and Bapatla around the forenoon of October 28, with wind speeds potentially reaching 115–125 kmph. Forecasts regarding the system’s movement remain a key concern, as changes in its projected track could affect the extent of its impact on Odisha.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red warnings for heavy rainfall in five districts of Odisha, alongside warnings for vulnerable areas in Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Telangana.
Five Odisha Districts Under Close Watch
Authorities are closely monitoring the developing weather system, particularly in districts expected to receive intense rainfall. The possibility of extremely heavy downpours has raised concerns over waterlogging, localised flooding, disruption to transport and damage to vulnerable infrastructure.
Coastal and southern Odisha are expected to experience worsening weather conditions as the system approaches the eastern coastline. Rainfall activity could intensify from October 26, with very heavy rain forecast for October 27 and extremely heavy rainfall possible on October 28 and 29.
The IMD is expected to provide further clarity on the cyclone’s trajectory and likely impact as the system develops.
Odisha Government Strengthens Disaster Preparedness
The state government has intensified precautionary measures to minimise potential damage and ensure a coordinated response. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has reviewed preparedness, while senior administrative officials have been assigned responsibilities in vulnerable districts.
Five senior IAS officers have been deployed to oversee preparedness and coordinate response efforts in districts considered particularly exposed to the developing system.
The government has also placed disaster response teams on standby. According to the supplied report, eight National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, comprising more than 250 personnel, have been positioned across six districts. Odisha Fire Services has also prepared 205 teams to respond to emergencies.
These arrangements are intended to facilitate rescue operations, emergency assistance and the rapid restoration of essential services if conditions deteriorate.
Schools to Remain Closed in Five Districts
As a precautionary measure, educational institutions in five districts have been scheduled to remain closed on October 28 and 29. The decision is aimed at reducing risks to students and staff should severe weather affect road connectivity and normal movement.
Authorities have also imposed restrictions on boat services across Chilika Lake from October 26 to 29. The suspension is intended to prevent accidents amid the possibility of strong winds and rough weather.
Fishermen have been advised against venturing into vulnerable parts of the Bay of Bengal, in line with the weather warnings.
Cyclone Track Remains a Major Concern
One of the key challenges for authorities is the possibility of changes in the system’s projected path. While the current forecast points towards landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast, a subsequent change in direction could influence rainfall intensity and weather conditions across parts of Odisha.
Even if the storm makes landfall outside the state, Odisha could experience significant rainfall and associated disruptions. Officials are therefore maintaining heightened vigilance and preparing for multiple possible scenarios.
Residents Advised to Follow Official Advisories
With the weather system expected to approach the coast in the coming days, residents in vulnerable areas are advised to follow official IMD bulletins and instructions issued by district administrations.
People should avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather, stay away from flooded roads and water bodies, and cooperate with evacuation or safety instructions if issued by authorities.
The situation remains under close watch as Odisha prepares for the possible impact of Cyclone ‘Arnab’. The storm’s eventual intensity, movement and landfall pattern will determine the scale of the threat to the state.
26, Oct 2026
Odisha’s Growth Story to Expand ‘From Mines to Microchips’, Says PM Modi
Bhubaneswar, Oct 26: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has envisioned a new phase of economic growth for Odisha, saying the state is poised to move beyond its traditional mineral-based industries and emerge as a destination for advanced technology, semiconductors, electronics and computing.

Addressing a programme in Bhubaneswar following the inauguration of the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) Data Centre and Cybersecurity Training Institute, Modi said emerging technology sectors would create fresh opportunities for Odisha’s youth and contribute to the country’s broader development ambitions.
Emphasising the state’s changing economic landscape, the Prime Minister described Odisha’s future as one that would progress “from mines to microchips”, reflecting a shift towards technology-driven industries alongside its established strengths in mineral resources.
“I assure the young friends of Odisha that the big dreams you have envisioned will surely come true. We will do it,” Modi said, expressing confidence in the state’s development potential.
Technology to Open New Avenues for Odisha’s Youth
Highlighting Odisha’s industrial prospects, Modi said the state was witnessing opportunities across traditional industries and emerging technology sectors. While mineral resources continue to underpin its industrial economy, investments in semiconductors, electronics manufacturing, data centres and advanced computing could broaden its economic base.
The Prime Minister said these developments would create new avenues for employment, investment and skill development, enabling young people to participate in industries that are increasingly shaping the global economy.
He also underscored the growing importance of eastern India in the vision of a developed India, positioning the region as an emerging contributor to the country’s economic expansion.
Referring to the change in government in Odisha, Modi said the state’s development journey had gained fresh momentum, with technology and industrial growth expected to play an increasingly important role.
RBI Facilities to Strengthen Digital Infrastructure
The inauguration of the RBI’s Data Centre and Cybersecurity Training Institute was highlighted as a key step towards strengthening India’s financial technology infrastructure.
Modi stressed that protecting digital systems had become increasingly important as banking and financial services continued to expand through online platforms. He underlined the need for modern infrastructure, robust cybersecurity measures and skilled professionals to safeguard the country’s financial ecosystem against evolving cyber threats.
The new facilities are expected to support the security and resilience of banking operations while strengthening the technological capabilities required to manage India’s growing digital financial activity.
The Prime Minister’s emphasis on cybersecurity also reflects the broader need to ensure that technological advancement is accompanied by reliable systems and effective protection against cybercrime.
Development Must Reach Villages and Smaller Towns
Modi also reiterated that the benefits of economic growth and technological progress must extend beyond major urban centres to villages and smaller towns.
He highlighted digital connectivity, improved healthcare infrastructure and wider access to banking services as important elements of inclusive development, stressing that the country’s progress should create opportunities for people across different regions.
The Prime Minister said the next decade would place greater emphasis on making banking services more efficient and reliable, building on the expansion of financial access achieved over the previous decade.
Odisha’s Ambition Beyond Mineral Wealth
Odisha’s established strengths in mining and mineral-based industries provide a foundation for its industrial economy. The push towards electronics, semiconductors and advanced computing signals an ambition to diversify that foundation and participate in higher-value technology sectors.
For the state’s young population, the emerging opportunities could translate into new career pathways in engineering, digital infrastructure, electronics manufacturing and cybersecurity, provided investment is matched by skills development and employment creation.
Concluding his address, Modi congratulated the RBI and those associated with the newly inaugurated facilities, expressing confidence in Odisha’s future and the aspirations of its youth.
The vision of moving “from mines to microchips” captures the state’s ambition to combine its resource-based industrial strengths with the opportunities offered by the digital and technology-driven economy.
26, Oct 2026
PM Modi Inaugurates RBI’s INR 169-Crore Data Centre, Cybersecurity Training Facility in Odisha
Bhubaneswar, Oct 26: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday inaugurated the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) new greenfield Data Centre at Info Valley-II in Jatni, Khordha district, during his one-day visit to Odisha. The ₹169-crore facility is expected to strengthen India’s digital financial infrastructure and enhance the security and resilience of the country’s banking systems.

Spread across 18.55 acres, the state-of-the-art facility is the RBI’s second Data Centre, following its existing centre in Navi Mumbai. The project marks a significant step towards strengthening the technological backbone supporting India’s rapidly expanding digital payments ecosystem.
Strengthening Digital Banking Infrastructure
The new Data Centre will support the secure storage and management of information associated with major digital payment and banking systems, including the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT) and Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS).
With digital transactions becoming an increasingly integral part of everyday financial activities, the facility is expected to improve operational resilience and help maintain the continuity of critical banking services during cyberattacks, technical failures and other disruptions.
The infrastructure is also designed to support the adoption of emerging technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI) and big data analytics, enabling advanced data management and more efficient digital operations.
Focus on Cybersecurity and Capacity Building
Alongside strengthening data infrastructure, the project places emphasis on cybersecurity preparedness and specialised training. The associated cybersecurity training initiative is aimed at enhancing the capabilities required to protect India’s digital financial ecosystem against evolving cyber threats.
As cyber risks grow alongside the expansion of online banking and digital payments, stronger technological safeguards and skilled cybersecurity professionals are becoming increasingly important for financial institutions.
The new facility is expected to contribute to the RBI’s broader efforts to build a secure, reliable and resilient digital financial architecture.
Security Arrangements for PM’s Odisha Visit
Extensive security measures were implemented in Bhubaneswar for the Prime Minister’s visit. According to the report, the Commissionerate Police deployed 57 platoons of police personnel, supported by five platoons of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF).
Traffic restrictions were also introduced at key locations to facilitate the visit and ensure smooth movement during the programme.
A Boost to Odisha’s Technology Infrastructure
The inauguration adds a significant financial technology infrastructure project to Odisha’s growing development landscape. The facility at Info Valley-II is expected to reinforce the state’s role in supporting technology-driven public and financial services.
By combining secure data infrastructure with a focus on cybersecurity and advanced digital technologies, the RBI’s new centre represents an important investment in the reliability and protection of India’s financial systems as digital transactions continue to expand.