News from Bhubaneswar

Hari Babu Kambhampati to be sworn in as Odisha's Governor on January 3, 2025. He arrived in Bhubaneswar and visited Jagannath temple in Puri. Swearing-in at Raj Bhavan in Bhubaneswar tomorrow. He was appointed following the resignation of former Governor Raghubar Das.

Commissionerate Police-Bhubaneswar seeks court approval for remanding Hansita Abhilipsa and Anil Kumar Mohanty in a fraud case involving impersonation as the relatives of Prime Minister's Principal Secretary P.K Mishra. Infocity Police lead the investigation.

Odisha gears up for the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Bhubaneswar from January 8-10, spotlighting its heritage. Key figures like Prime Minister Modi and S. Jaishankar to attend.

Bhubaneswar launches Hop-On Hop-Off buses for Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, enhancing tourist experiences with flexible travel to city landmarks.

Odisha CM Mohan Majhi critiqued former CM Naveen Patnaik, emphasising BJP's grassroots approach. He claimed BJD leaders are now engaging with villages due to BJP's dynamic governance.

Commissionerate Police reports over 50% rise in Bhubaneswar cybercrime incidents in 2024. A total of 7263 cases were reported, highlighting increased financial and social media frauds.

Odisha CM Mohan Majhi orders filling government vacancies by March 31, focusing on SC/ST positions. New OPSC centres in Jeypore, Koraput planned. “We always remain dedicated to maintaining transparency and impartiality throughout the recruitment process,” the Chief Minister stated.

Odisha Govt approves 25 projects worth Rs 4,222.24 crore during SLSWCA meet, led by Chief Secy Manoj Ahuja, aiming for over 14,000 jobs. CM Mohan Charan Majhi's leadership boosts investment in diverse sectors. The projects will be implemented across 11 districts in the State.

Odisha welcomed New Year 2025 with vibrant celebrations, dazzling fireworks, and spiritual gatherings at places like Jagannath temple. Excise Minister Harichandan ensured strict liquor control. Communities across the State welcomed January with vibrant fervour that went beyond the traditional club and party scenes.

Allegations of financial misconduct in Mission Shakti's laptop procurement emerge, with discrepancies in fund use. Funds misappropriated, raising questions on accountability. A total of 251 beneficiaries, in Khordha district alone, have been allocated Rs 1.25 Crore as part of the State government assistance initiative.

The editorial piece has sparked considerable discussion in the political spectrum in Odisha as Tathagata Satpathy has openly blamed Odisha's former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik for the Biju Janata Dal's (BJD) electoral defeat.

As Odisha greets 2025, Jayadev Jena asserts Congress's resurgence is imminent, eyeing the 2025 elections. All India Congress Committee (AICC) is set to appoint a new president for the Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) in Odisha. New Pradesh Congress Committee leadership would aim to leverage BJP failures.

Focus is being given on streamlining the travel experience, reducing delays, and offering a smoother, more efficient journey for passengers, including during peak travel times affected by weather disruptions such as fog.

Odisha sets Jan 15, 2025 deadline for e-KYC of ration card beneficiaries. Minister Krushna Chandra Patra aims for seamless benefits access even for Odias outside the State. Around 85 per cent of residents in Odisha have already completed their e-KYC verification requirements, he said.

Despite the rise in overall crime reporting due to free registration policies, there has been a decrease in major crimes under the categories of murder, dacoity, robbery, burglary, theft, rioting, and rape in Bhubaneswar.