SAIL Hands Over Rourkela Airport to Airports Authority of India, Opening New Avenues for Air Connectivity and Regional Development in Western Odisha

Rourkela, July 12 [UDN}:  This move is expected to accelerate the overall growth of Western Odisha and attract new investments. Improved air services will enhance opportunities for trade, tourism, and industry in and around Rourkela. The development of the airport will also benefit students, business travelers, and local residents by reducing travel time and increasing accessibility. The handover marks an important milestone in strengthening regional…

The Sacred Month Dedicated to Lord Mahadev Will Begin on July 30 This Year, Marking the Start of Devotion and Fasting for Millions of Devotees

Bhubaneswar,  July 12 [UDN}:  During the holy month of Shravan, devotees across the country observe special prayers and rituals in honour of Lord Shiva.In 2026, the auspicious month will include four Mondays, which hold special significance for Shiva devotees.The first Shravan Monday (Somvar) will be observed on August 3. Devotees observe fasting and offer milk, water, and Bilva leaves to Lord Shiva during these Mondays.Temples…

Light Rain Likely at Isolated Places Across Odisha Today, with Rainfall Activity Expected to Intensify and Spread from Tomorrow Until July 15

Bhubaneswar: July 12 [UDN}:There is a possibility of rainfall at a few places across the state today. The intensity and coverage of rainfall are expected to increase from tomorrow onwards, with wet weather conditions likely to continue until July 15. According to weather forecasts, several districts may experience moderate to heavy rainfall during this period. Residents have been advised to remain alert and take necessary…

Sacred Nabajaubana Darshan of the Holy Trinity to Begin at 2 PM on July 14; No Darshan for Devotees on Ubha Amavasya

Puri:July 12 [UDN}: The sacred Nabajaubana Darshan of the Holy Trinity will be held from 2:00 PM on July 14. Devotees will not be able to have darshan of the deities on Ubha Amavasya. Nabajaubana Darshan marks the first public appearance of the deities after the Anasara period.During Anasara, the deities remain away from public view for ritual healing and rejuvenation.Thousands of devotees from across…

Mega Investment Boost for Rayagada as Hindalco Announces Expansion of Alumina Refinery Capacity, Opening Doors for Fresh Investments in Odisha

Rayagada, July 12 [UDN}:  A major investment initiative is set to boost industrial growth in Rayagada as Hindalco plans to expand the capacity of its alumina refinery. This expansion is expected to attract fresh investments, create employment opportunities, and strengthen Odisha’s position as a leading industrial and manufacturing hub. The project is likely to usher in a new wave of economic development and investment across…

Hirakud Dam’s First Floodwater Reaches Mundali as District Administration Remains on High Alert and Issues Warning to Riverside Residents

Hirakud, July 12 [UDN}: The first spell of floodwater released from the Hirakud Dam has reached Mundali, prompting authorities to intensify monitoring of the river system. District administrations in vulnerable areas have been placed on high alert to tackle any possible flood-related situation. Residents living along riverbanks have been advised to remain vigilant and follow official instructions. Emergency response teams and disaster management units are…

Pipili Artisans Race Against Time to Craft Sacred ‘Chanduas’ for Rath Yatra 2026

Pipili (Puri), July 11 (UDN): With the annual Rath Yatra 2026 just days away, the artisan town of Pipili in Odisha has come alive as hundreds of families work tirelessly to prepare the sacred ‘Chanduas’—the colourful appliqué canopies that adorn the chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra during the world-famous festival.  Representational Image Renowned globally for its centuries-old appliqué craft, Pipili is…

Odisha to Roll Out SOP for KG-to-PG Admissions, Announces Financial Support for Aided Colleges

Bhubaneswar, July 11 (UDN): The Odisha government will soon issue a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to streamline admissions from kindergarten (KG) to postgraduate (PG) level and remove ambiguities surrounding the implementation of its recently announced free education initiative. Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj said the SOP would provide uniform guidelines to educational institutions and ensure a smooth, transparent admission process across the state. The move follows…

Two Construction Workers Die After Septic Tank Collapse at Building Site in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar, July 11 (UDN): Two construction workers lost their lives after an under-construction septic tank collapsed at a building site in BJB Nagar in Odisha’s capital on Saturday, raising fresh concerns over safety standards at construction sites. The accident occurred while the workers were engaged in construction activities when the partially built septic tank suddenly gave way, causing them to fall inside the collapsed structure.…

Onion Prices Double in Odisha Within Fortnight as Supply Disruptions Hit Markets

Bhubaneswar, July 11 (UDN): Onion prices have surged sharply across Odisha over the past two weeks, with retail rates doubling from around ₹20 per kg to nearly ₹40 per kg, adding to the financial burden on households already grappling with rising food costs. The sudden spike has been attributed to disruptions in the supply chain caused by heavy rainfall in key onion-producing regions of Maharashtra, particularly…