From 15th to 17th September 2024, PM Narendra Modi was on a visit to three states aimed at boosting infrastructure, health, and education initiatives.
From 15th to 17th September 2024, PM Narendra Modi visited Jharkhand, Gujarat, and Odisha to boost infrastructure, health, and education initiatives. During his visit, he reviewed the progress of key development projects, focusing on enhancing regional infrastructure and improving healthcare and educational facilities. The Prime Minister inaugurated new industrial zones and launched various public welfare schemes aimed at promoting economic growth. He also held discussions with state officials and local communities to address specific challenges and explore growth opportunities. This tour was part of the government's continued efforts to accelerate development across different regions of the country.
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of collaboration between the central and state governments to ensure effective implementation of development projects.
Local community engagement was highlighted as a crucial factor in addressing regional issues and tailoring solutions to specific needs.
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DRDO and Indian Navy Successfully Conduct Second Consecutive Flight Test of Vertical Launch Short Range Surface-to-Air Missile (VLSRSAM) off Odisha Coast.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy have successfully conducted the second consecutive flight test of the Vertical Launch Short Range Surface-to-Air Missile (VLSRSAM) off the coast of Odisha. This test, which took place on September 17, 2024, demonstrated the missile's capability to intercept aerial threats effectively. The VLSRSAM is designed to enhance the air defense capabilities of naval platforms by providing robust protection against incoming missiles and aircraft. The successful test reaffirms India's commitment to advancing its defense technology and ensuring the readiness of its naval forces.
The VLSRSAM system successfully demonstrated its interception capabilities against multiple aerial threats during the flight test.
The successful test enhances the Indian Navy's defense readiness and strengthens its naval air defense systems.
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DRDO and Indian Navy Successfully Flight Test Vertical Launch Short Range Surface-to-Air Missile (VL-SR SAM) off Odisha Coast.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy successfully conducted a flight test of the Vertical Launch Short Range Surface-to-Air Missile (VL-SR SAM) off the Odisha coast. The missile, designed for quick reaction against aerial threats, demonstrated its capabilities in a high-stakes test environment. This successful test underscores India’s advancements in defense technology and enhances its strategic defense capabilities. The VL-SR SAM is intended to provide robust protection for naval assets against a range of aerial threats, marking a significant step forward in the country’s defense research and development efforts.
The VL-SR SAM features advanced tracking and targeting systems for enhanced accuracy in intercepting aerial threats.
The successful test reinforces India’s commitment to strengthening its naval defense capabilities and indigenous missile technology.
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India's First Silicon Carbide Manufacturing Unit to be Established in Odisha.
India is set to inaugurate its first silicon carbide manufacturing unit in Odisha, marking a significant milestone in the country's industrial development. This cutting-edge facility, planned to bolster India's position in the global semiconductor market, will focus on producing high-performance silicon carbide materials essential for advanced electronics and electric vehicles. The project is expected to attract substantial investment, generate numerous jobs, and stimulate technological innovation. By establishing this unit, India aims to reduce dependency on foreign imports and strengthen its domestic manufacturing capabilities, aligning with the broader vision of becoming a key player in the global semiconductor supply chain.
The unit will enhance India’s self-reliance in advanced material production, reducing import dependence.
The project will boost regional development and technological expertise in Odisha.
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India Successfully Test-Fires Agni-4 Ballistic Missile in Chandipur, Odisha.
India successfully conducted a test of its Agni-4 ballistic missile on September 10, 2024. The missile was launched from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha. This test is part of the country’s efforts to enhance its strategic defense capabilities. The Agni-4, with a range of approximately 4,000 kilometers, is a significant step in India’s missile development program. The successful launch demonstrates the missile's capability to deliver nuclear and conventional warheads effectively, enhancing India’s deterrence and defense mechanisms. The test was carried out in accordance with the country's rigorous defense protocols and procedures.
The Agni-4 missile test enhances India’s strategic strike capabilities and strengthens its regional defense postures.
This successful test reaffirms India's commitment to advancing its indigenous missile technology and maintaining national security.
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Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi Launches CM-KISAN Scheme.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has launched the CM-KISAN Scheme, aimed at supporting farmers across the state. The initiative is designed to provide financial assistance and resources to enhance agricultural productivity and ensure better livelihoods for the farming community. Under this scheme, farmers will receive subsidies on various agricultural inputs, including seeds and fertilizers, and access to advanced farming techniques. The CM-KISAN Scheme reflects the government's commitment to improving the economic conditions of farmers and boosting agricultural growth in Odisha. The launch event was attended by various government officials and local leaders.
The scheme will also offer training programs to enhance farmers' skills in modern agricultural practices.
Farmers can avail of low-interest loans through the CM-KISAN Scheme for purchasing farming equipment and technology.
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Odisha Launches PM-USHA Program to Enhance Higher Education.
Odisha has launched the PM-USHA (Pradhan Mantri Utkal University of Science and Humanities Advancement) program to bolster higher education in the state. This initiative aims to improve infrastructure, promote research, and enhance the quality of education across universities and colleges. The program focuses on upgrading facilities, providing advanced research tools, and fostering collaboration between institutions. By implementing these measures, Odisha seeks to create a more robust academic environment, support innovation, and increase the overall academic standards in the region, ultimately benefiting students and contributing to the state's educational growth.
The PM-USHA program includes scholarships for students pursuing higher education in science and humanities.
New digital learning platforms will be introduced to enhance interactive education methods.
Capital: Bhubaneswar
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Odisha launched India's first 24/7 grain ATM in collaboration with the World Food Program (WFP).
Odisha has made a significant stride in food security by partnering with the World Food Programme (WFP) to launch India's first 24/7 grain ATM. This innovative facility, inaugurated in the town of Jeypore, allows residents to access essential grains at any time, ensuring that food is available around the clock. The ATM is designed to provide a seamless distribution process, particularly benefiting those in remote areas who struggle with food access. This initiative is part of Odisha's broader effort to enhance food distribution and support vulnerable populations through technology-driven solutions.
The grain ATM uses advanced technology for efficient distribution and minimizes human intervention.
Odisha aims to address food scarcity issues with innovative, accessible solutions through this partnership.
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Odisha govt presents Rs 2.65 lakh crore budget for FY'25.
The Odisha government has presented a substantial budget of ₹2.65 lakh crore for the financial year 2024-25. This budget reflects the state's commitment to enhancing infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Key allocations include significant investments in rural development and social welfare programs aimed at improving the quality of life for residents. The budget also emphasizes sustainable development and economic growth, with a focus on attracting investment and fostering innovation. This comprehensive fiscal plan is designed to address the state’s diverse needs and drive its progress over the coming year.
The budget introduces tax incentives to boost small businesses and startups in Odisha.
Increased funds are allocated for environmental conservation projects and renewable energy initiatives.
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DRDO Tests Long-Range SMART Anti-Submarine Missile Successfully.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a flight test of the Supersonic Missile Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART) on Wednesday from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, situated off the coast of Odisha. According to the Ministry of Defence, SMART represents a cutting-edge missile-enabled lightweight torpedo delivery system aimed at bolstering the Indian Navy's anti-submarine warfare capabilities well beyond the traditional range of lightweight torpedoes.
SMART system enhances India's naval defense by extending the range of torpedo attacks against submarines.
The successful test demonstrates DRDO's advancements in integrating supersonic missiles with torpedo delivery technology.
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Odisha CM felicitates Sudarsan Pattnaik for winning gold at International Sand Sculpture Championship.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi felicitated sand artist Sudarshan Pattnaik at his residence in Bhubaneswar on Saturday for winning the Golden Sand Master Award with a gold medal at the International Sand Sculpture Championship held in St. Petersburg, Russia, the Chief Minister's office said.Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said that while Pattnaik's talent has made him famous at the individual level, it has also made Odisha proud.
Sudarsan Pattnaik's sand art promotes cultural diplomacy, showcasing India's rich artistic heritage globally. His achievements inspire budding artists and elevate Odisha's prominence in global artistic competitions.
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Manoj Ahuja takes charge as Odisha's chief secretary, CEO Nikunja Bihari Dhal deputed to CMO.
Manoj Ahuja has assumed the role of Odisha's chief secretary, succeeding Nikunja Bihari Dhal, who has been appointed to the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) as CEO. This administrative reshuffle marks Ahuja's new leadership in steering Odisha's governmental affairs, while Dhal brings his expertise to the CMO, reflecting strategic placements within the state's administrative framework.
Manoj Ahuja, a 1990-batch IAS officer of Odisha.
He would be the first chief secretary of the first Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Odisha led by chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi.
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Odisha Government Extends Hockey India Sponsorship till 2026.
The Odisha government has announced an extension of its support to Hockey India (HI) till 2036 on Friday (June 21). The decision was taken after a high-level meeting which involved HI President Dilip Tirkey and HI Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh along with the newly-sworn-in Chief Minister of Odisha Mohan Charan Majhi, Minister of State for Sports & Youth Services Suryabanshi Suraj, Chief Secretary & Chief Development Commissioner Pradeep Kumar Jena and Commissioner-Cum-Secretary R. Vineel Krishna.
While the outgoing Naveen Patnaik-led Government had extended the sponsorship of the men's and the women's national hockey team- both senior and junior-till 2033, the new extension decision will now see the state sponsor the teams till 2036, implying a further three-year extension.
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Neeraj Chopra Secures Gold in the Javelin Throw in Paavo Nurmi Games 2024.
As India's golden boy prepares himself for the upcoming Olympics 2024, world champion Neeraj Chopra won gold medal with his best throw at 85.97m in the men's javelin throw competition at the Paavo Nurmi Games 2024 athletics meet in Turku, Finland on Tuesday. With a powerful throw in his first attempt, Neeraj Chopra was leading at 83.62m. However, the champion faced a small setback as he trailed behind Oliver Helander who took the lead with an effort of 83.95m. While Chopra won a gold medal in Odisha, his first domestic tournament after a long break, the world champion remains unsatisfied. Leading to the Olympics 2024, Neeraj started his season at the Doha Diamond League on May 11 and ended in second place with a throw of 88.36m.
However, the disappointment was not for long as the world champion returned with 85.97m throw in his third attempt and was leading the fray again.
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Ophichthus Suryai, A New Species of Snake Eel Discovered Off Odisha Coast.
Scientists of the Zoological Survey of India's (ZSI) regional centre at Gopalpur in Odisha's Ganjam district have discovered a new species of snake eel from different estuarine ecosystems in the state, an official said. At least six specimens have been collected from the Subarnarekha river at Talasara in Balasore district, Paradip in Jagatsinghpur district and Bahuda river near Sunapur in Ganjam district at different times last year.
The detailed characteristics of this new species of Ophichthus Suryai were published in the Bulletin of Marine Science, an international journal on its latest edition of June 13 this year.
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Former Odisha Governor Murlidhar Chandrakant Bhandare Passed Away on June 15 at the age of 95.
Born on December 10, 1928 at Mumbai, he had been appointed the Governor of Odisha on August 21, 2007 and succeeded Rameshwar Thakur. He continued in the office until the appointment of SC Jamir on March 9, 2013. Former Governor Murlidhar Chandrakant Bhandare passed away on Saturday. He was 95. As a senior advocate in the Supreme Court, Bhandare was respected as a champion of the causes of the common man. He was the president of the Supreme Court Bar Association for two terms.
A senior Congress leader from Maharashtra, Bhandare was a member of Rajya Sabha having been elected in June 1980 and re-elected in April 1982 and April 1988.
He was chairman of various committees of the Parliament and visited USA, UK, USSR, Germany and several other foreign countries.
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Mohan Charan Majhi sworn in as Odisha's 1st BJP CM, Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo & Pravati Parida took oath as Deputy CMs.
Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday took oath as the 15th Chief Minister of Odisha in the presence of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other senior BJP leaders at the Janta Maidan in Bhubaneswar. Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, a veteran party MLA from Patnagarh, and Pravati Parida, a first-time MLA from Nimapara, were also sworn in as the deputy CMs at the event. Majhi, BJP's tribal face is a sitting MLA from the Keonjhar assembly constituency in Western Odisha. He had a long political career, beginning as a Sarpanch in 1997 and becoming an MLA for the first time in 2000 from Keonjhar. He won the seat back in 2004, but lost it again in 2009 and 2014. In 2019, he won again, and in 2024, he held his seat.
The new Chief Minister who shares Santhal roots with India's first Adivasi President Droupadi Murmu, has worn many hats - farmer, teacher in an RSS-run school, sarpanch, Adivasi rights advocate, and a crusader against the mining mafia.
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Eminent Puppeteer Padma Shri Maguni Kuanr Passes Away.
In Odisha, Padma Shri Maguni Charan Kuanr, passed away at his Keonjhar residence today morning. He was 88 and was not well for months. Kuanr was conferred Padma Shri, one of the highest civilian awards of the country, by President Droupadi Murmu last year for his lifelong contribution to the field of art for keeping alive the dying art of rod puppetry and promoting the traditional rod puppet dance.
President Droupadi Murmu has expressed sadness over the demise of renowned puppeteer and Padma Shri awardee Maguni Charan Kuanr.
In a social media post President Murmu offered her condolences and said that Mr Kuanr has left behind an inspiring legacy.
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Neeraj Chopra clinches gold medal at Federation Cup 2024 with 82.27 meter throw .
Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra aced the Federation Cup 2024 championship in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, as he clinched gold in his first javelin throw competition on Indian soil in three years. Neeraj Chopra, who recently finished second at the Doha Diamond League, started on a slow note in Bhubaneswar but took the lead in the fourth round with an 82.27-meter throw.
DP Manu, who was representing Karnataka in the championship, came close second with an 82.06-meter effort, winning the silver medal, while Uttam Balasaheb Patil of Maharashtra clinched the bronze medal with a throw of 78.39 meters.
Asian Games silver medalist Kishore Jena, who emerged as India's second-best javelin thrower at the tournament, didn't perform up to expectations.
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Anandana, The Coca-Cola India Foundation, announces its first ever partnership with Hockey India, for the National Women's Hockey League 2024-25.
Anandana, The Coca-Cola India Foundation, announces its first ever partnership with Hockey India, for the National Women's Hockey League 2024-25. The 1st Phase of the tournament commenced on 30th April, and it will conclude on 9thMay 2024, in Ranchi, Jharkhand. The National Women's Hockey League features teams that secured top-eight positions in Pune's recently concluded 14thHockey India Senior Women National Championship 2024. The participating athletes represent various states, including Haryana, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Bengal, Mizoram, Manipur, and Odisha.
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Tata Steel Special Economic Zone Limited (TSSEZL) and Hygenco signed a MoU to establish a green hydrogen and green ammonia project at TSSEZL's Gopalpur Industrial Park in Odisha.
Tata Steel Special Economic Zone Limited (TSSEZL) and Hygenco signed a MoU to establish a green hydrogen and green ammonia project at TSSEZL's Gopalpur Industrial Park in Odisha. Hygenco, known for its low-cost green hydrogen production, plans to build its new facility in Ganjam district, where it will manufacture green hydrogen, green ammonia, and related products. The facility is projected to have an annual production capacity of 1 million tonnes, with the initial phase expected to be operational by December 2026. The total committed capacity of green hydrogen and green ammonia production at the industrial park now stands at approximately 2.6 million tonnes per annum. This solidifies Gopalpur Industrial Park as a hub for green hydrogen and ammonia in India.
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The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a flight test of the Supersonic Missile Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART) from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, situated off the coast of Odisha.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a flight test of the Supersonic Missile Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART) from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, situated off the coast of Odisha. According to the Ministry of Defence, SMART represents a cutting-edge missile-enabled lightweight torpedo delivery system aimed at bolstering the Indian Navy's anti-submarine warfare capabilities well beyond the traditional range of lightweight torpedoes. This canister-based missile system incorporates several advanced subsystems, including a two-stage solid propulsion system, electromechanical actuator system, and precision inertial navigation system. Additionally, SMART is equipped with an advanced lightweight torpedo as its payload, delivered via a parachute-based release system.
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ReNew Energy Global has signed an initial agreement with JERA Co Inc, to jointly evaluate development of a green ammonia production project in India.
ReNew Energy Global has signed an initial agreement with JERA Co Inc, Japan’s largest power generation company, to jointly evaluate development of a green ammonia production project in India. Under the agreement, ReNew, through its subsidiary, ReNew E-Fuels Private Limited, and JERA will jointly evaluate development of a green ammonia production project in Paradip, Odisha. The project will utilise approximately 500 MW of high-capacity utilisation factor renewable energy to produce green hydrogen, a key feedstock for green ammonia. The project is likely to have a production capacity of approximately 100,000 tonnes of green ammonia annually by 2030. JERA will have the right to offtake this green ammonia for Japan. There will be a joint study to evaluate the commercial viability of the project.
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Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted a successful flight-test of Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM) from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur off the coast of Odisha.
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted a successful flight-test of Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM) from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur off the coast of Odisha. During the test, all subsystems performed as per expectation. The missile performance was monitored by several Range Sensors like Radar, Electro Optical Tracking System (EOTS) and Telemetry deployed by ITR at different locations to ensure complete coverage of the flight path. The flight of the missile was also monitored from the Su-30-Mk-I aircraft of the Indian Air Force. The missile followed the desired path using way point navigation and demonstrated very low altitude sea-skimming flight. This successful flight test has also established the reliable performance of the indigenous propulsion system developed by Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), Bengaluru.
The missile is developed by Bengaluru-based DRDO laboratory Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) along with contribution from other laboratories and Indian industries.
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The central government notified the appointment of National Stock Exchange CEO and managing director Ashish Kumar Chauhan and Zoho founder Sridhar Vembu as members of the University Grants Commission (UGC) for 3 year.
The central government notified the appointment of National Stock Exchange CEO and managing director Ashish Kumar Chauhan and Zoho founder Sridhar Vembu as members of the University Grants Commission (UGC) for 3 year. The move expands the UGC's membership from four to eight, aiming to enhance its regulatory capabilities. Joining Chauhan and Vembu are Sachidananda Mohanty, former vice chancellor of the Central University of Odisha, and Shashikala Gulabrao Wanjari, currently serving as vice chancellor of the National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration. Their tenure on the Commission is set for three years, or until further orders.
The recent appointments align with the UGC Act of 1956, which stipulates that at least four members should be active university professors.
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India plans to build its first privately managed strategic petroleum reserve (SPR) by 2029-30.
India plans to build its first privately managed strategic petroleum reserve (SPR) by 2029-30, granting the operator the freedom to trade all of the stored oil. Allowing a fully commercial SPR mirrors the model adopted by countries such as Japan and South Korea, which allow private lessees, mostly oil majors, to trade the crude. So far, India has allowed only partial commercialisation for its three existing SPRs in southern India, which have a combined capacity of 36.7 million barrels. India plans to build two new SPRs - the first a 18.3 million barrels cavern at Padur in southern Karnataka state, and then a 29.3 million barrels SPR in eastern Odisha state - with private partners allowed to trade all of the oil locally.
Expanding oil storage capacity would also help India join the International Energy Agency (IEA), which requires its members to hold a minimum of 90 days of oil consumption.
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