Bhubaneswar, July 29 (UDN): In a major step towards improving the implementation of the PM SHRI (PM Schools for Rising India) Scheme, the Odisha School & Mass Education Department has appointed 30 senior education officials as State Reviewers to monitor and evaluate the performance of PM SHRI schools across all districts of the state. Representational Image The appointments are aimed at ensuring effective implementation of…
Bharat Taxi Sees Strong Response as Nearly 8 Lakh Drivers Join Platform
New Delhi, July 29: Bharat Taxi, India’s cooperative-based mobility platform, has received an exceptional response from the driver community, with nearly 8 lakh drivers joining the platform as partners. The strong participation reflects growing trust in a driver-focused mobility model that aims to empower drivers with greater ownership, transparency, and economic opportunities. Bharat Taxi is built on the vision of creating an inclusive transportation ecosystem…
Flood Situation Worsens in Odisha’s Jajpur as Baitarani River Overflows
Jajpur, July 29 (UDN): Floodwaters from the swollen Baitarani River have affected several parts of Odisha’s Jajpur district, submerging homes, disrupting daily life, and leaving some villages cut off from surrounding areas. Rising water levels have forced authorities to shut schools in affected locations as a precautionary measure, while many residents continue to face difficulties due to water entering residential areas and disrupting normal activities.…
Indian Tourists Get Easier Access as UPI Payments Reach Burj Khalifa Bookings
Dubai, July 29: Travelling to Dubai has become more convenient for Indian visitors, with UPI payments now available for online bookings at Burj Khalifa, one of the world’s most popular tourist attractions. The new payment option allows Indian travellers to use familiar UPI-enabled apps to purchase tickets and services, making the booking process faster, simpler, and more seamless while visiting the UAE. The move marks…
Nepal’s Tiger Conservation Success: Population Climbs to 429 in 2026
Kathmandu, July 29: Nepal has achieved a major milestone in wildlife conservation, with its tiger population increasing from 121 in 2009 to 429 in 2026, marking significant progress in protecting one of the world’s most endangered big cats. The rise in tiger numbers reflects years of dedicated conservation efforts, including stronger wildlife protection measures, improved habitat management, anti-poaching initiatives, and greater involvement of local communities…
India’s Youth Take Centre Stage in Drive to Build a Drug-Free Future
New Delhi, July 29: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch the ‘Nasha Mukta Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyaan’ on August 2, a nationwide initiative aimed at encouraging young people to stay away from substance abuse and promoting a healthier, stronger future for the country. The campaign seeks to create awareness about the harmful effects of drug addiction while bringing together youth, families,…
Banakalagi Ritual Today: Jagannath Temple to Remain Closed for Devotees for Five Hours
Puri, July 29 (UDN): Devotees planning to visit the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri on Wednesday will have to reschedule their darshan, as the shrine will remain closed to the public for around five hours in the evening for the performance of the sacred Banakalagi Niti. According to the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), public darshan will remain suspended from around 7 pm to 11 pm…
Flooded Bridge Brings Sonepur Traffic to Standstill After Heavy Rain
Sonepur, July 29 (UDN): Heavy rainfall has disrupted daily life in parts of Odisha’s Sonepur district after the Jamanal Bridge was submerged under around three feet of water, stopping traffic movement along the important Julunda-Siali road in Binika block. The continuous downpour over the past few days led to a sharp rise in water levels, causing the bridge to go underwater and leaving commuters stranded.…
CM Mohan Majhi Unveils Book on Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati, Hails His Legacy of Service and Cultural Awakening
Bhubaneswar, July 29 (UDN): Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday unveiled a book chronicling the life, philosophy and contributions of Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati, describing the revered seer as a symbol of service, spirituality and cultural consciousness. Titled “Vedanta Keshari Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati: Kruti O Byaktitwa”, the book has been authored by Bipin Bihari Nanda and Banchanidhi Panda and published by the Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati…
Bijepur Records Extreme Rainfall as Western Odisha Battles Flood Threat
Bhubaneswar, July 29 (UDN): Western Odisha witnessed intense rainfall activity as several areas received exceptionally heavy showers, with Bijepur recording more than 300 mm of rainfall, marking one of the highest rainfall figures during the latest spell. The heavy downpour, triggered by a low-pressure system and a depression over the region, has disrupted normal life in several districts and increased concerns over flooding in vulnerable…