Bhubaneswar, May 20: The demand for electric vehicles (EVs) in the state is increasing, and Transport Minister Bibhuti Jena has shared important information in this regard. According to the minister, around 9 lakh 10 thousand EV vehicles are currently operating in Odisha. For EV charging facilities, a specific company has been assigned the responsibility to set up 100 charging centers. Out of these, the company…
US Approves Apache Helicopter, M777 Support Deal for India Worth $428 Million
New Delhi/Washington, May 19 (BNP): In a significant boost to bilateral defence cooperation, the United States has approved a military support package worth over USD 428 million for India, covering sustainment support for AH-64E Apache attack helicopters and M777A2 ultra-light howitzers, according to the US Department of State. Representational image The approved package includes an estimated USD 198.2 million for support services and related equipment…
Odisha Reels Under Severe Heatwave; Hirakud Scorches at 44°C, Bhubaneswar at 39.6°C
Bhubaneswar, May 19 (BNP): Odisha continued to reel under intense heatwave conditions on Tuesday, with several parts of the state experiencing soaring temperatures amid severe summer conditions. Hirakud emerged as the hottest place in the state, recording a blistering 44 degrees Celsius, while the capital city Bhubaneswar registered 39.6 degrees Celsius, intensifying discomfort for residents. Representational image The prolonged spell of extreme heat has impacted…
Joint Eviction Drive by BDA, BMC, GA Triggers Protest in Patia’s Kalarahanga
Bhubaneswar, May 19 (BNP): A joint eviction drive conducted by the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA), Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation, and the General Administration (GA) Department in the Kalarahanga area under Patia on Tuesday triggered protests from local residents, as officials moved to clear alleged encroachments from government land. The operation was undertaken as part of the administration’s ongoing anti-encroachment and urban land reclamation exercise in the…
HINDAMME and the Artisans at Madrasat Addeera Inspired by AlUla’s 7,000+ Years of Heritage in New Collection
The collection draws inspiration from the destination’s ancient landscapes and legacy as a source of inspiration and creativity, translating heritage into wearable modern art Renowned Saudi Arabian fashion label HINDAMME and Arts AlUla’s Madrasat Addeera, a platform dedicated to creativity and traditional arts inspired by heritage, today revealed a limited-edition, slow fashion collection inspired by AlUla’s more than 7,000 years of continuous human heritage…
UPSC Introduces Historic Reform, Early Answer Keys for Civil Services Prelims 2026
New Delhi, May 19 (BNP): In a significant reform aimed at improving transparency and candidate engagement, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced that it will release the provisional answer key for the Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2026 shortly after the examination scheduled on May 24, marking a major departure from its long-standing practice. Representational image Describing the move as “a new beginning,” Dr.…
Fire Breaks Out in Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar, May 19: A fire incident was reported in VSS Nagar, Bhubaneswar, today amid ongoing intense heatwave conditions in the region. The exact cause of the fire is currently unknown. At this stage, no confirmed cause has been established, and authorities are examining all possible factors. The fire was brought under control after prompt response measures by emergency services. Officials are continuing on-ground assessment to…
Pharmacy Shops to Remain Open Despite AIOCD Nationwide Strike Call Against E-Pharmacies
New Delhi, May 19 (BNP): Major pharmacy chains, hospital-attached medical stores, Jan Aushadhi Kendras and AMRIT Pharmacy outlets across the country will continue operations on May 20, despite a nationwide shutdown call issued by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD) against the functioning of e-pharmacies and online medicine platforms. Representational image The decision comes following discussions between representatives of the AIOCD and…
Petrol, Diesel Prices Rise Again in Bhubaneswar; Second Hike in Five Days
Bhubaneswar, May 19 (BNP): Fuel prices in Bhubaneswar have witnessed another increase, marking the second hike within the last five days and adding to the growing concerns of commuters, transport operators and households already grappling with rising living costs. According to the latest revision, the price of petrol in the city has increased by ₹0.93 per litre, taking the retail price to ₹105.44 per litre,…
Ministry of Ayush Issues Public Health Advisory on Heatwave, Urges Preventive Measures
New Delhi, May 19 (BNP): The Ministry of Ayush has issued a public health advisory in response to rising temperatures and heatwave conditions across several parts of the country, urging citizens to take necessary precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses. The advisory outlines key preventive measures such as maintaining adequate hydration, avoiding direct exposure to sunlight during peak hours, and limiting strenuous outdoor activities. Citizens have…