IMD Forecasts Widespread Rainfall in Odisha, Heatwave Set to Ease

Bhubaneswar, June 18 (UDN): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread rainfall across Odisha through June 22, with several districts expected to experience heavy showers, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds over the coming days. The changing weather pattern is expected to provide significant relief from prevailing heatwave conditions across the state, improving overall temperatures and bringing temporary respite to residents. According to the forecast, rainfall…

Olympic Champion Neeraj Chopra Ready for Diamond League Season Opener

New Delhi, June 18: Indian javelin sensation Neeraj Chopra is set to return to Diamond League action, confirming his participation in the season opener after finalizing his decision a week ago. The Olympic and world champion expressed his readiness to compete against some of the world’s leading athletes as he begins another important season on the international athletics circuit. His return marks a significant moment for…

Tata Motors Revises Commercial Vehicle Prices Amid Rising Input Costs

Mumbai, June 18:Tata Motors has announced a price increase of up to 2.5% across its commercial vehicle range, effective from July, as the company seeks to partially offset rising input and operational costs. The price revision will apply across various commercial vehicle models and variants, with the exact increase varying depending on the product category and specifications. The company said the adjustment is necessary to…

Metro Expansion Accelerates Urban Connectivity Across Gujarat

Gujarat, June 18: Gujarat’s rapidly expanding metro rail network is transforming urban mobility, providing residents with faster, more efficient, and environmentally sustainable transportation options across the state’s major cities. The ongoing expansion of metro services is improving connectivity between key residential, business, educational, and industrial districts, significantly reducing travel times and easing pressure on congested road networks. As urban populations continue to grow, metro infrastructure is…

President Murmu Highlights Tribal Communities’ Deep Connection with Nature

New Delhi, June 18: President Droupadi Murmu lauded India’s tribal communities for their deep-rooted connection with nature and their commitment to preserving human values, emphasizing their vital role in promoting sustainable living and cultural heritage. Speaking at a recent event, the President highlighted that tribal societies have long demonstrated a balanced and respectful relationship with the environment, offering valuable lessons in conservation, community living, and responsible…

Centre Clears 8.25 pc EPF Interest Rate for FY26, Payout Process to Begin Shortly

New Delhi, June 18: The Government of India has officially ratified an annual interest rate of 8.25% on Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) deposits for FY2025-26, paving the way for the interest amount to be credited to the accounts of more than 7 crore EPF subscribers across the country. The approval follows recommendations by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) and ensures continued attractive returns for millions…

Villagers Threaten Poll Boycott Over Delay in Electrification in Kalahandi

Kalahandi,Thuamul Rampur, June 18 (UDN): Residents of Tumnikhol village under Thuamul Rampur block in Odisha’s Kalahandi district have threatened to boycott future elections if their long-pending demand for electricity connectivity is not fulfilled. Representational image Home to around 200 people from 45 families, the remote village continues to remain without electricity despite repeated appeals to the authorities. Villagers allege that the absence of power supply…

Commercial Energy Storage in India Projected to Expand More Than 30 Times by 2032

New Delhi, June 18: India’s commercial energy storage sector is poised for exponential growth, with deployments projected to increase by more than 30 times by 2032, signaling a major shift in the country’s energy infrastructure landscape. The rapid scale-up is being driven by the accelerating integration of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, which require advanced storage systems to ensure grid stability and reliable…

Visakhapatnam–Kharagpur Expressway DPR Finalised to Boost East–South India Connectivity

Brahmapur, June 18 (UDN): The Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the proposed Visakhapatnam–Kharagpur Expressway has been finalised, marking a key step toward improving connectivity between East and South India. The upcoming greenfield expressway will connect Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh with Kharagpur in West Bengal. The project is expected to reduce travel time, improve transport efficiency, and support trade and business activities across the region. The…

Rathkhala Update: Istha (Axle) Preparation Begins Amid Ongoing Chariot Construction in Puri

Puri, june 18 (UDN): Chariot construction work for the annual Rath Yatra has reached its 58th day at the Rathkhala in Puri, with craftsmen beginning the preparation of the Istha (axle component) used in the chariots. Work at the site witnessed a temporary halt of nearly four hours in the morning due to internal issues among servitors, despite workers arriving at around 8 AM. Construction…