News from Bhubaneswar

Odisha's School & Mass Education Department probes irregular regularisation of junior teachers without OTET certificates, following complaints and a 2012 policy mandate. Allegedly, though the concerned teachers have obtained OTET certification later, the policy mandates clearing it before regularisation. This rule, however, was not uniformly enforced across all districts of the State.

Amulya Kumar Padhan was appointed Vice-President of BSE-Odisha, Cuttack, amidst a series of education department transfers and the backdrop of the OTET question paper leak case involving former VP Nihar Mohanty. The School and Mass Education (S&ME) Department also effected a few more transfers and postings in the Board vide an official notification.

The Odisha Crime Branch's Special Task Force (STF) has intensified its crackdown on an inter-state drug syndicate with statewide raids, seizing substances like brown sugar and cough syrup, in coordination with national agencies.

Odisha's revenue department employees continue their state-wide strike for the fourth day, defying government warnings, crippling public services and leaving citizens in distress over delayed essential documents.

Indian Railways introduces Vande Bharat Sleeper trains, promising speed and comfort for long-distance travel. Odisha's rail network stands to benefit significantly from this upgrade.

Odisha's Housing & Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra announced a fresh proposal for the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail project, seeking Centre's collaboration. A new technical committee will assess and suggest routes, with public input considered.

ASP Rabindra Panda and Commandant Naresh Patel from Odisha Police are among those selected for the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service on Independence Day 2025, alongside others receiving Gallantry and Meritorious Service medals.

Odisha farmers get relief as PMFBY's Kharif season registration deadline extends to August 31, facilitating wider participation.

The Odisha government plans to establish 38 model mandis in 30 districts over two years with a Rs 300 crore investment, approved by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. These mandis aim to enhance agricultural marketing with modern facilities.

The Odisha Cabinet approved seven proposals to enhance infrastructure and public services, including nursing colleges, model mandis, and 24x7 water supply in Sambalpur, aiming to improve living standards. These proposals reflect the State government’s emphasis on healthcare, rural development, urban infrastructure, and energy efficiency, promising long-term benefits for the people of Odisha.

Odisha's Higher Education Department launches 'Safe Campaign' under 'Shakti Shree' scheme to address rising student suicides, promoting mental well-being and a supportive campus environment. The government believes that early intervention and open conversations on mental health will play a crucial role in saving lives and nurturing emotionally resilient youth.

Odisha Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari warns striking Amala Sangha members to resume duties or face action, including salary withholding, amid a 10-point charter of demands disrupting public services. The revenue employees’ association, which launched an indefinite strike from Monday, has been strongly urged by the Revenue Minister to end their protest and return to work.

Odisha gears up for the 79th Independence Day with a grand parade on Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Bhubaneswar, featuring BSF, ODRAF, NDRF contingents, and school bands under Contingent Commander Ananya Abasti.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi launched OMBRIC, aiming to boost environmental protection, science-based tourism, and employment in coastal Odisha through marine biotechnology. MoUs with NIOT and six institutions, including IIT Bhubaneswar, were signed for R&D support.

The ED intensifies its investigation into Ratikant Raut, alias 'Zulu', by examining vehicle transactions linked to 34 benami entities, following raids and a PMLA case against him for alleged illegal mining and money laundering.