# mediathepower > online news and opinion website we focuses heavily on Indian politics, national security, defence developments, and current affairs along with odisha state news. - Brand: Information, mediathepower.com --- # US Secretary of State Marco Rubio Arrives in Mumbai for Strategic Talks with India and UAE Ministers Source: https://mediathepower.com/us-secretary-of-state-marco-rubio-arrives-in-mumbai-for-strategic-talks-with-india-and-uae-ministers.md **MUMBAI** — **US Secretary of State [Marco Rubio](https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=%2Fm%2F0dpr5f&q=Marco+Rubio)** arrived in [Mumbai](https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=%2Fm%2F04vmp) on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, to begin a high-profile **three-day official visit to India** Shortly after landing, Secretary Rubio held a crucial bilateral meeting with **Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar**. According to official readouts, the discussions focused on strengthening the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, with specific emphasis on finalising a long-pending **bilateral trade agreement, enhancing defence cooperation, and advancing critical emerging technologies**. In a significant diplomatic expansion of the itinerary, Minister Jaishankar and Secretary Rubio were joined by **UAE Foreign Minister [Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan](https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=%2Fm%2F0bfxlk&q=Sheikh+Abdullah+bin+Zayed+Al+Nahyan)** for a trilateral meeting. The three leaders held extensive discussions targeting **regional energy security, connectivity, and shared economic priorities** across the corridor While in Mumbai, Secretary Rubio also paid tribute to the victims of the 2008 terror attacks at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel memorial and visited the iconic Gateway of India alongside Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. He is scheduled to depart for Jamnagar, Gujarat, on Wednesday to review major energy refining infrastructure --- # COMMISSIONERATE POLICE X ACCOUNT COMPROMISED; CRYPTO SCAM POSTS SPARK CYBERSECURITY ALARM Source: https://mediathepower.com/commissionerate-police-x-account-compromised-crypto-scam-posts-spark-cybersecurity-alarm.md **BHUBANESWAR** — In a major cybersecurity breach, the **official X (formerly Twitter) account of the Twin City Commissionerate Police (Bhubaneswar-Cuttack)** was hacked on Monday. The compromised handle was subsequently used by unidentified bad actors to broadcast fraudulent cryptocurrency advertisements.The security failure has raised serious administrative concerns, as the law enforcement agency's primary digital communication line remained under unauthorized control for **over 16 to 19 hours** before effective intervention occurred. **Festival Traffic Updates Disrupted** The cyberattack took place during the peak of the **Dussehra festive season**, a period when local citizens rely heavily on the official handle (`@cpbbsrctc`) for real-time traffic diversions, safety advisories, and emergency updates. Instead of vital civic information, visitors to the profile were met with unauthorized promotional posts pushing a **"XAMAN Airdrop"** linked to the XRP cryptocurrency.The phishing posts directed unsuspecting followers to link their digital wallets to a malicious external site to claim token allocations. **Investigation and Recovery Measures** Senior officials, including **Commissioner of Police Dr. S. Dev Datta Singh**, confirmed that tech teams treated the incident as a high-priority cybersecurity violation **Account Suspension:** To insulate the public from further financial fraud, the platform temporarily locked and suspended the compromised handle, rendering it inaccessible to the hackers **Formal Appeal to X Corp:** The Commissionerate Police dispatched an official letter to X platform administrators demanding an expedited recovery process and full restoration of administrative rights **System Review Underway:** Digital forensics and cyber cell experts are actively auditing the breach vector to identify how standard two-factor authentication or credential safeguards were bypassed. While the exact identity of the hackers remains unknown, police authorities maintain that rigorous security protocols are being established to safeguard government social media infrastructure from future exploitation. --- # Braj Mohan Ram Sworn In as 28th Governor of Odisha Source: https://mediathepower.com/braj-mohan-ram-sworn-in-as-28th-governor-of-odisha.md BHubneswar- **[Braj Mohan Ram](https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=%2Fg%2F11c2phl5qt&q=Braj+Mohan+Ram)** was officially sworn in as the **28th Governor of Odisha** during a formal ceremony held at the **Lok Bhavan** in Bhubaneswar on **Sunday, October 18, 2026**. The oath of office and secrecy was administered by **Orissa High Court Chief Justice Harish Tandon**. The high-profile event was attended by prominent leaders, including **Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi**, Assembly Speaker Surama Padhy, state ministers, MPs, and senior government officials. Following the swearing-in, the new Governor was accorded a traditional ceremonial guard of honour Ram, a 68-year-old veteran leader and a three-time Lok Sabha MP from Palamu, Jharkhand, was appointed to the constitutional post by **President Droupadi Murmu** on October 12, 2026. He succeeds **Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati**. Having arrived in the state capital on Saturday, the Governor-designate received a grand welcome at the Biju Patnaik International Airport. Prior to taking office, Ram visited the **revered Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri** with his family to seek divine blessings for the welfare, progress, and development of Odisha and its people. Addressing the media, Ram expressed his commitment to working for the advancement of the state in consultation and cooperation with all stakeholders. --- # Supreme Court Rules Internet Access a Fundamental Right for Children, Shifting Online Safety Burden to Tech Platforms Source: https://mediathepower.com/supreme-court-rules-internet-access-a-fundamental-right-for-children-shifting-online-safety-burden-to-tech-platforms.md NEW DELHI — In a monumental verdict delivered on October 15, 2026, by Justices J.B. Pardiwala and K. Vinod Chandran, the Supreme Court declared internet access a fundamental right for children, rejecting blanket bans in a case concerning online Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse Material (CSEAM) - **Rejecting Total Bans:** The court asserted that denying internet access is "unproven measures of proven disproportionality" and likened keeping children offline to mistaking the victim for the problem. - **Targeting Intermediaries:** The judgment shifts accountability to tech platforms and regulators to police harmful content rather than restricting minor users' freedoms. - **Actionable Safeguards:** The Centre was directed to establish a national cross-platform database for removing flagged abusive material, implement structural protections like "child mode" with verified parental consent, and enforce strict tech accountability. In a landmark judgment, the **Supreme Court of India** has ruled that **children have a fundamental right to access and use the internet** under Articles 21 and 19(1)(a) of the Constitution. The court firmly rejected proposed blanket bans or total age-based restrictions, addressing deep-seated parental anxieties by shifting the responsibility of child safety away from limiting children and toward stricter regulatory accountability --- # Caste Status in One State Does Not Automatically Apply in Another, Rules Orissa High Court Source: https://mediathepower.com/caste-status-in-one-state-does-not-automatically-apply-in-another-rules-orissa-high-court.md **BHUBANESWAR** — The **Orissa High Court** has delivered a significant ruling on reservation dynamics, declaring that an individual recognized as a **Scheduled Caste (SC)** in **[Jharkhand](https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=%2Fm%2F01c0h6)** cannot automatically claim the same reserved status or benefits in **[Odisha](https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=%2Fm%2F01l69g)**. This holds true even if their community is classified under a different reserved category, such as **Scheduled Tribe (ST)**, in the neighbouring state. [[1](https://www.google.com/goto?url=CAEStgEB6zswFS80ORevWtQhHdNS2sJ4K4hl9Of4OPWC7Dtbt_nbKFUrPXeOOE9l0b9Deh7xNqWQYr5HynAEYhYTcGgZRblqbya4ntijnQwf8mPeq_iX7haYXDnyD1O_EWIw-qQx0Tc-5gUM9KA-C2saNEX1Okp_8zmyHx6Je09Of-6cIvMMboGT5ugAkHMTCz5yEOJB9aFBsc1BULC3ptUGNDDJhoY1AZ_VeMGFrUtJje34n45MJUvm9g), [2](https://www.google.com/goto?url=CAESsgEB6zswFXwub2ELJ27c2g4Mn4Gkj5_Ebk7MJRbGHcpa5nTvyi3NCQuA6la0KR6L2CCOgVUn_lCkPSuenrRJdzTFOQDe2sVFMG1y3dmEx2Nbe_0psRgy5mJxaVB_gJEQSrA3zcFBMv4epNWRDyhfcsSji97N78ZKnQZ7GPZzZDAq8KUZ9fV_ptlnj1IGSww_sQ4pX4vIIH4d3EmnIQ2W-oEkUfjjpmbrwsFfOLMjhIQplsqo)] The order was passed on Friday by **Justice Sashikanta Mishra** while presiding over a petition filed by Binoy Krishna Das. The single-judge bench quashed a letter issued by the District Registrar-cum-Additional District Magistrate (ADM) of **Mayurbhanj**. The administrative order had previously required the petitioner to obtain mandatory regulatory permissions under the **Odisha Scheduled Areas Transfer of Immovable Property (by Scheduled Tribes) Regulation, 1956**, before resubmitting his property sale deed. [[1](https://www.google.com/goto?url=CAEStgEB6zswFS80ORevWtQhHdNS2sJ4K4hl9Of4OPWC7Dtbt_nbKFUrPXeOOE9l0b9Deh7xNqWQYr5HynAEYhYTcGgZRblqbya4ntijnQwf8mPeq_iX7haYXDnyD1O_EWIw-qQx0Tc-5gUM9KA-C2saNEX1Okp_8zmyHx6Je09Of-6cIvMMboGT5ugAkHMTCz5yEOJB9aFBsc1BULC3ptUGNDDJhoY1AZ_VeMGFrUtJje34n45MJUvm9g), [2](https://www.google.com/goto?url=CAESpwEB6zswFe9CwTgHTe8o6yogOLlYWe9L5VcYfxYygr_YrrSXm3eUd5rW-AE2mct_AlFmnrWDb9TiJgLUgkgtzX8yxMKl-lgP2v_WzTBTdFQoSqabzmoZmQJAbKO496i_1efsINtXL87B29fH2nAgYwgnkjctmZ_YoEecpwjrR4CTOwCKwUrUM3bXEvQnRnBppl-6uxMK4gh_5r9J-BeCsuVxOBd4XvVveA)] The High Court clarified that because the petitioner’s caste origin was officially recognized as SC in Jharkhand, he could not be treated as either an SC or an ST within the state borders of Odisha. Consequently, the strict legal restrictions intended to regulate the transfer of tribal lands do not apply to his transaction. This judgment reinforces established constitutional jurisprudence that reserved category benefits are tied to specific state notifications and cannot be carried over or converted during interstate migration --- # Odisha Ministers Launch ₹26 Crore Transport Projects in Jharsuguda; Belpahar Bus Stand Inaugurated Source: https://mediathepower.com/odisha-ministers-launch-%e2%82%b926-crore-transport-projects-in-jharsuguda-belpahar-bus-stand-inaugurated.md **JHARSUGUDA:** In a major boost to the regional transport network and rural-urban connectivity, the Government of Odisha has rolled out key infrastructure projects worth over **₹26 crore** in Jharsuguda district. The developmental push features the inauguration of the state-of-the-art **‘Atal Bus Stand’ in Belpahar**, the foundation-stone laying ceremony for a new bus terminal in Lakhanpur, and the expansion of the regional **‘Mukhyamantri Bus Seva’ (MBS)** network. High-Profile Launch Events The ceremonies were attended by several high-ranking state and regional leaders, including: - **Shri Bibhuti Bhushan Jena**, Hon’ble Minister of Commerce & Transport and Steel & Mines - **Shri Suresh Pujari**, Hon’ble Minister of Revenue & Disaster Management - **Shri Pradip Purohit**, Member of Parliament (Bargarh Lok Sabha) - **Shri Tankadhar Tripathy**, Member of the Legislative Assembly (Jharsuguda) | Project Name | Location / Route | Estimated Cost | Status | | ------------ | ---------------- | -------------- | ------ | | **Atal Bus Stand (Belpahar)** | Belpahar | ₹17.77 Crore | Operational / Inaugurated | | **Atal Bus Stand (Lakhanpur)** | Lakhanpur | ₹9.40 Crore | Foundation Stone Laid | | **Mukhyamantri Bus Seva (MBS)** | Kirmira to Lakhanpur *(via Laikera & Jharsuguda)* | — | Route Operations Commenced | Speaking at the launch, **Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena** reiterated the government's core mission: > *"Our primary objective is to ensure that affordable, safe, and modern transport services reach every corner of the state. The Atal Bus Stand at Belpahar, along with the upcoming terminal at Lakhanpur, will transform the landscape of the region."* **Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari** highlighted Jharsuguda's economic significance, noting: > *"Jharsuguda is a significant industrial and commercial hub. Robust connectivity infrastructure is essential for its holistic development. The Atal Bus Stand is not merely a terminal; it serves as a powerful medium to bridge rural and urban areas."* MP Pradeep Purohit acknowledged the dual-government coordination solving long-standing public demands, while MLA Tankadhar Tripathi extended gratitude to the state government, terming the transit additions a "significant gift" that lays the foundation for a prosperous and developed Jharsuguda. The newly operational infrastructure and additional transit lines are designed to establish direct links between rural pockets and urban employment centres. Local authorities project that the upgraded network will deliver immediate benefits to **daily commuters, students, and businesses**, injecting new economic momentum into the industrial district. --- # Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari Secures School & Citizen Land Rights, Opens 30-Bed Health Center in Jharsuguda Source: https://mediathepower.com/revenue-minister-suresh-pujari-secures-school-citizen-land-rights-opens-30-bed-health-center-in-jharsuguda.md JHARSUGUDA: In a significant push toward public welfare, infrastructure development, and securing land rights, the Odisha Minister for Revenue and Disaster Management, Suresh Pujari, launched a series of developmental initiatives during his official visit to the Jharsuguda district. As part of the state government’s commitment to providing legal land ownership to citizens, the Minister distributed Records of Rights, commonly known as land pattas, to 23 beneficiaries in the Katarabaga mouza settlement area. Speaking on the occasion, Pujari emphasized that this initiative offers long-awaited legal recognition to the land rights of local residents, ensuring they receive their rightful property entitlements. In a simultaneous effort to streamline public property records, the Revenue Department handed over land pattas to the headmasters of 21 local schools functioning under the School and Mass Education Department. Pujari noted that the government is actively working to resolve long-standing land ambiguities for educational institutions to secure and protect school properties. Prior to the land distribution ceremonies, Minister Pujari inaugurated a newly constructed 30-bed Community Health Centre in Rajpur, aimed at strengthening the regional rural healthcare infrastructure. The Minister also attended the block-level children's festival, Surabhi, organized at the Remanda High School in Lakhanpur block. Serving as the chief guest, Pujari praised the event as a vital platform for nurturing young talent, sparking creativity, and encouraging students to participate in co-curricular activities. Reiterating the administration's vision, Pujari stated that the state government remains deeply committed to upgrading transport facilities, expanding healthcare access, and maintaining absolute transparency in government land records. Local administrative officials noted that the day's events mark a major milestone in driving holistic development across the Jharsuguda district. --- # CM Majhi Launches Rs 39,383 Cr Industrial Projects, Secures Rs 1,194 Cr ITI Upgrade, and Allocates Rs 56.55 Cr for Rural Leaders Source: https://mediathepower.com/cm-majhi-launches-rs-39383-cr-industrial-projects-secures-rs-1194-cr-iti-upgrade-and-allocates-rs-56-55-cr-for-rural-leaders.md **Bhubneswar**- **Chief Minister [Mohan Charan Majhi](https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=%2Fg%2F11ck88v52w&q=Mohan+Charan+Majhi)** has approved Rs 56.55 crore for a six-month honorarium for serving Sarpanches and Naib Sarpanches, launched 53 industrial projects valued at Rs 39,383 crore, and received clearance from the National Steering Committee for Rs 1,194.92 crore to upgrade ITI clusters across the state. **Odisha Drives Massive Growth with Industrial, Rural, and Educational Enhancements** In a sweeping series of governance and development upgrades, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has advanced the state's rural economy, industrial presence, and technical education systems through three major initiatives. - **Industrial Expansion:** The Chief Minister officially launched **53 industrial projects valued at Rs 39,383 crore**. This massive influx of capital is expected to generate thousands of employment opportunities and dramatically expand the state's manufacturing and economic footprint. - **Technical Education Upgrade:** Advancing the state's skilled workforce, the National Steering Committee cleared **Rs 1,194.92 crore** dedicated entirely to upgrading several Industrial Training Institute (ITI) clusters. This funding will introduce advanced infrastructure, modern tools, and industry-ready training modules. - **Rural Governance Support:** Recognizing grassroots administration, the state government approved an allocation of **Rs 56.55 crore**. This budget will fund a six-month honorarium for serving Sarpanches and Naib Sarpanches, ensuring local leaders are financially supported to execute community projects efficiently. --- # ODISHA GOVERNOR LAYS FOUNDATION STONE FOR 144 LOK BHAVAN STAFF QUARTERS Source: https://mediathepower.com/odisha-governor-lays-foundation-stone-for-144-lok-bhavan-staff-quarters.md **BHUBANESWAR:** In a major push toward staff welfare and administrative efficiency, Odisha Governor **Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati** laid the foundation stone on Thursday for **144 new residential quarters** dedicated to the officers and staff of Lok Bhavan in Bhubaneswar. The upcoming residential project is specifically designed to address a long-standing shortage of official accommodation, aiming to significantly improve the living conditions of employees serving at the state's administrative hub **Project Blueprint & Timeline** The infrastructure project will feature modern housing configurations distributed across multiple blocks: - **E-Type Quarters:** 96 units spread across four distinct blocks. - **F-Type Quarters:** 48 units distributed across two blocks. - **Structure:** All residential units will be built as **Stilt+6 storey buildings**. - **Execution:** The construction is being awarded on a **turnkey basis**, with a strict completion deadline set for **May 2028**. **Boosting Administrative Efficiency** Speaking on the initiative, officials highlighted the Governor’s continuous emphasis on the well-being of state employees. By providing adequate, well-equipped housing close to the workspace, the initiative is expected to create a highly conducive environment for more efficient administrative operations. **Dignitaries in Attendance** The foundational ceremony was attended by several high-ranking state officials and engineering chiefs, including: - **Dr. Roopa Roshan Sahoo**, Commissioner-cum-Secretary to the Governor - **Priyabrata Samantra**, In-charge Chief Engineer (Buildings) - **Manoj Kumar Mahanand**, Chief Construction Engineer, Central (R&B) Circle, Bhubaneswar - **Arun Amitav Pradhan**, Superintending Engineer Senior officials from Lok Bhavan were also present to mark the commencement of the targeted two-year development project. --- # LOK BHAVAN STAFF BID FAREWELL TO GOVERNOR KAMBHAMPATI Source: https://mediathepower.com/lok-bhavan-staff-bid-farewell-to-governor-kambhampati.md **BHUBANESWAR:** Odisha Governor **Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati** was bid a warm farewell by the officers and staff of Lok Bhavan at the New Abhishek Hall here on Thursday The Governor attended the function alongside the First Lady, **Jayashree Kambhampati**. Addressing the gathering, the Governor extended his gratitude to the officers and staff for their cooperation and support during his tenure of nearly **one year and nine months** in Odisha. He expressed that his stay in the state would remain a cherished memory for the rest of his life and highly appreciated the dedication of the Lok Bhavan team. The farewell programme provided an opportunity for the employees to recall their association with the Governor, acknowledge his impactful presence, and convey their best wishes for his future endeavours. **Dr Roopa Roshan Sahoo**, Commissioner-cum-Secretary to the Governor, along with other senior officers and staff members, shared their experiences of working closely with him. The event concluded with the team conveying their highest regards to the departing Governor. --- # Union Minister Jual Oram Surprises Audience as ‘Nishad Raj’ at Red Fort Ramlila Source: https://mediathepower.com/union-minister-jual-oram-surprises-audience-as-nishad-raj-at-red-fort-ramlila.md **NEW DELHI:** In a striking departure from his daily political duties, Union Minister for Tribal Affairs and Sundargarh MP **Jual Oram** surprised audiences by performing on stage as '**Nishad Raj**' at the prestigious **Luv-Kush Ramlila** held at Delhi's historic **Red Fort** grounds. Dressed in elaborate traditional attire complete with a crown adorned with peacock feathers, a necklace of cowrie shells, and carrying a bow and arrow, Union Minister portrayed the King of Shringaverapura, a close and loyal friend to Lord Ram. **Audience Captivated by Emotional Performance** The auditorium erupted with chants of "Jai Shri Ram" as Oram stepped onto the stage. Observers noted that the Minister delivered his lines with the poise of a seasoned professional. The emotional high point of the performance was the enactment of the exile sequence, depicting the deeply affectionate embrace between Lord Ram and the Nishada King. **A 'Unique Spiritual Experience'** ![](https://mediathepower.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/juel-698x1024.jpg) Reflecting on his theatrical debut, Minister Jual Oram expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity to step out of his political persona. > "It is a matter of great fortune for me to have portrayed the role of Nishad Raj on stage, rather than appearing as a Minister," Oram stated. "The character embodies a noble tradition within Indian culture, one that places the highest value on friendship and human principles. Performing such an inspiring role in this historic Ramlila was a deeply moving, honourable, and unique spiritual experience for me." **Social Media Buzz** Photographs and video clips of the Minister's performance have rapidly gone viral across social media platforms. The performance has drawn widespread praise from both the public and political circles, with many commending Oram's dedication to preserving and celebrating cultural heritage. --- # OUSSSC CPSE-2024: Online Application Correction Window Opens for Odisha Police SI Candidates Source: https://mediathepower.com/ousssc-cpse-2024-online-application-correction-window-opens-for-odisha-police-si-candidates.md **BHUBANESWAR** — The **Odisha Uniformed Services Staff Selection Commission (OUSSSC)** has launched an online data validation and correction window for the **Combined Police Service Examination-2024 (CPSE-2024)**. Candidates vying for Sub-Inspector level posts can update and verify their credentials directly on the OUSSSC Official Portal . Key Schedule & Highlights - **Correction Window Opens:** October 15, 2026 (from 10:00 AM) - **Deadline to Complete Updates:** October 29, 2026 (until 10:00 PM) - **Applicability:** Mandatory for all registered applicants, including candidates seeking benefits under newly extended government age-relaxation provisions The commission highlighted that the data locked by candidates during this period will be treated as final and absolute for all subsequent rounds of recruitment, including the written examination and physical tests. No further edit requests or category changes will be permitted after the October 29 deadline. Aspirants are strongly advised to review their profiles, check their certificate numbers side-by-side, and download the updated acknowledgement report before logging out --- # CAMPUS UNREST: Student Union Elections Cancelled Across Odisha Colleges, Rajendra University and LN Collage Jharsuguda Shut Ahead of Oct 15 Polls Source: https://mediathepower.com/campus-unrest-student-union-elections-cancelled-across-odisha-colleges-rajendra-university-and-ln-collage-jharsuguda-shut-ahead-of-oct-15-polls.md **Jharsuguda**- Just some hours before Odisha’s highly anticipated student union elections, democratic campus polling has faced severe disruption as widespread cancellations and indefinite closures roll through multiple higher education institutions across the state. In a dramatic escalation of campus tension,LN collage Jharsuguda and Rajendra University in Balagir became the latest major institution to officially call off its elections due to significant law-and-order concerns. The state-wide polls, originally scheduled to make a historic return on October 15, 2026, after an eight-year hiatus under the previous BJD government, have encountered intense friction, leading to campus closures and sine die declarations across several key districts The decision in Balangir mirrors a growing list of institutions across Odisha pulling the plug on campus democracy due to rising violence, crude bomb blasts, and controversial nomination rejections | **Balangir** | Rajendra University | **Cancelled** | Severe student group clashes & administrative safety updates | | ------------ | ------------------- | ------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------- | | **Cuttack** | Banki Autonomous College | **Cancelled / Sine Die** | Campus crude bomb attacks damaging administration blocks | | **Jajpur** | Vyasanagar Autonomous College | **Cancelled / Closed Indefinitely** | Pre-poll campus crude bomb explosions | | **Puri** | Gop College | **Cancelled / Sine Die** | Severe campus disorder, vandalism, and gate locking | | **Nuapada** | Khariar Autonomous College | **Cancelled / Sine Die** | Total breakdown of law and order | | ----------- | -------------------------- | ------------------------ | -------------------------------- | | **Ganjam** | Nimina BC College (Asika) | **Cancelled / Closed Indefinitely** | Violent nomination withdrawal disputes and protests | | **Jharsuguda** | Laxmi Narayan (LN) College | **Cancelled**/**Sine Die** | Breakdown of law and order | Similar cancellations have been reported by regional education directorates at institutions in Bhadrak, Kendrapara, Nabarangpur, and Balasore --- # Mega Boost for Education & Infrastructure: Cabinet Clears ₹450-Cr Skill Initiative, Free Textbooks, and Astaranga Fishing Harbour Stage II Source: https://mediathepower.com/mega-boost-for-education-infrastructure-cabinet-clears-%e2%82%b9450-cr-skill-initiative-free-textbooks-and-astaranga-fishing-harbour-stage-ii.md ***From Classrooms to Coasts: State Greenlights 16 Mega Projects to Drive Education, Youth Upskilling, and Digital Safety** **BHUBANESWAR:** In a major push for education, skill development, and infrastructure, the State Cabinet has officially approved **16 key proposals spanning 11 departments**.The sweeping decisions aim to boost rural economies, strengthen the education sector, and enhance the state's technological infrastructure. Free Textbooks Approved for High School Students In a landmark move for secondary education, the Cabinet approved a proposal to provide **free textbooks to Class IX and X students**. This welfare scheme will remain in effect for the next **five years**, significantly reducing the financial burden on families and promoting higher retention rates in government and aided schools. ₹450-Crore Skill Initiative to Empower Youth To address unemployment and bridge the industry-ready skill gap, the state has greenlit the **Dakshyata Vikas Yojana**. Backed by a hefty budget of **₹450 crore**, this mega skill development scheme is designed to train and upskill thousands of youth across various sectors, preparing them for modern job markets. Coastal Economy Boost: ₹133.81 Cr for Astaranga Fishing Harbour The state’s maritime and fishing communities received a major boost with the approval of the **Astaranga Fishing Harbour Project Stage II**. With a sanctioned budget of **₹133.81 crore**, the modernization and expansion of the harbour are expected to increase fish landing capacities, improve hygienic handling, and elevate the livelihoods of local fishermen. Keonjhar to Host New Disaster Recovery Data Center Recognizing the critical importance of digital governance and data security, the Cabinet also cleared the establishment of a specialized **Disaster Recovery Data Center at Keonjhar**. This facility will ensure uninterrupted government digital services and safeguard critical state data in the event of natural disasters or cyber emergencies. Other approved proposals include critical infrastructure upgrades and administrative reforms across various departments, signaling a comprehensive development push by the state government. --- # Massive Infrastructure Push: Odisha Revenue Minister Gifts Projects Worth ₹28 Crore to Jharsuguda and Lakhanpur Blocks Source: https://mediathepower.com/massive-infrastructure-push-odisha-revenue-minister-gifts-projects-worth-%e2%82%b928-crore-to-jharsuguda-and-lakhanpur-blocks.md **JHARSUGUDA** — In a major boost to regional connectivity and administrative infrastructure, **Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Minister [Suresh Pujari](https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=%2Fg%2F11flbt8gn3&q=Suresh+Pujari)** has greenlit a massive development package worth **₹27.97 crore** (₹2,796.85 lakh) for the Jharsuguda and Lakhanpur blocks. The Minister laid the foundation stones for seven critical infrastructure projects designed to upgrade rural roadways, construct vital bridges, and improve public delivery services. he developmental package focuses heavily on strengthening communication lifelines and providing all-weather connectivity across rural pockets. **Major Connectivity and Roadway Upgrades** Among the highlights of the infrastructure drive is the foundation stone laying for two high-priority roadways: - **Greendola to Rishibahali Road:** Approved under the *Mukhyamantri Sadak Yojana*, the construction of this stretch will receive an estimated investment of **₹360.00 lakh**. - **NH-49 to Beheraguda Chowk Connectivity:** The critical connecting corridor passing via Junian Lalumunda will undergo a complete transformation at a cost of **₹447.00 lakh**. **Strategic Bridge Constructions Launched** To ensure uninterrupted transportation, especially during the monsoon seasons, five new bridge projects have been sanctioned: - **[Jamunala Bridge](https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=%2Fg%2F11f03g_sjk):** A bridge will be built over Jamunala on the Jogidipa-Luhurapada road with an allocation of **₹523.00 lakh**. - **Rajpur-Turipada Bridge:** The Gauramal-Junadihi road network in the Jharsuguda Block will benefit from a new bridge valued at **₹466.60 lakh**. [[1](https://www.google.com/goto?url=CAESoQEB6zswFX9w0yIJ0dp6lkNNtYSozvtOwyCzNWZUwI_yKZPJ0y-ZN_E2TCux5QoAfxUcjksvq-Pss7S6PAJHO1VY3wA25pCSSnjkyDbcJQRfhURw3cWXPX8-N9AJmiCrTHHNxCIiPPUFpsWUsDwzYRKGHy26mNgrrH_zWjkgru-CCb1qaPskAJ27a6_19ScW4AMJ3ucQceMtD3VCqx3lsRsa9A)] - **NH-49 Linkages via Baunsenpali:** Two massive bridge networks to link NH-49 are being undertaken—one via Banjipali at an estimated cost of **₹383.92 lakh**, and a second route via Kadamghat at **₹381.63 lakh**. **Strengthening Public Administration** Moving beyond road infrastructure, the Minister also laid the foundation stone for the construction of a dedicated **Assistant Labour Officer's office building** in the region. Funded with an estimated outlay of **₹234.70 lakh**, this administrative facility aims to streamline local governance and offer faster public services to the labor workforce in the industrial belt. Addressing the gatherings, Minister Pujari reiterated the state government's absolute commitment to accelerating grassroots development, emphasizing that robust road-and-bridge networks form the backbone of economic growth and livelihood improvement in Lakhanpur and then  the Minister announced the official commencement of the **₹2,100 crore expansion of National Highway 49**, which will widen the stretch from Kanktura to Jharsuguda into a four-lane highway. Furthermore, he declared that the highly anticipated **bridge over the Ib River** is nearing completion and will be officially inaugurated within a month. Local authorities have been instructed to ensure the timely and high-quality execution of these newly launched projects. --- # Braj Mohan Ram Appointed New Governor of Odisha in Major Six-State Reshuffle Source: https://mediathepower.com/1310-2.md **BHUBANESWAR** - **President Droupadi Murmu has appointed former Lok Sabha MP Braj Mohan Ram as the new Governor of Odisha**, Rashtrapati Bhavan announced in an official communiqué late yesterday. Ram, a veteran politician and three-time Member of Parliament representing Jharkhand's Palamu constituency, will succeed **Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati**, who has held the gubernatorial office since January 2025. The transition will officially take effect from the date Ram assumes charge of his office in the state capital. **Major Shake-up Across Six States** The appointment in Odisha comes as part of a sweeping gubernatorial reshuffle orchestrated by the Centre, affecting administrative heads in six states. The President’s office confirmed several high-profile transfers and fresh appointments alongside Ram's posting: - **Tamil Nadu:** Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar has been transferred from Kerala to take over the gubernatorial responsibilities. - **Kerala:** Om Prakash Mathur, previously serving as the Governor of Sikkim, will fill the vacancy left by Arlekar. - **Sikkim:** Senior leader Dushyant Gautam has been named as the new Governor, succeeding Mathur. - **Karnataka:** Dr. Sudha Yadav has been appointed to helm the state's Raj Bhavan. - **Uttarakhand:** Dr. Dhal Singh Bisen will take charge as the state's new Governor. Political analysts view the appointment of Braj Mohan Ram as a strategic move, bringing decades of legislative experience to Odisha's Raj Bhavan. Having served multiple terms in the Lok Sabha, Ram is expected to bring a seasoned administrative perspective to the state. --- # Youth & Community Focus: Navaratri Gift: Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari Unveils New Community Projects, Enrolls 400+ Youths for Skill Training Source: https://mediathepower.com/youth-community-focus-navaratri-gift-revenue-minister-suresh-pujari-unveils-new-community-projects-enrolls-400-youths-for-skill-training.md **JHARSUGUDA:** On the auspicious occasion of the first day of Navaratri, Odisha Revenue Minister **Suresh Pujari** launched a series of major development projects for his constituency, promising comprehensive growth and infrastructural upgrades within his current term. As part of the developmental blitz, Minister Pujari inaugurated a **new community center at Gandhi Chowk** and the renovated, historically significant **drama pandal in Brajrajnagar**, which had long been in a dilapidated condition. Aiming to boost local economy and education, he also laid the foundation stones for a **modern market complex** and a **state-of-the-art library** dedicated to local children. In Lajkura, a **grand gaushala (cow shelter)** was officially inaugurated to promote animal welfare in the region. Boost for Youth Employment and Infrastructure Focusing on youth empowerment, a mass youth gathering was organized in Lakhanpur. During the event, **over 400 local youths were enrolled for specialized skill training**, backed by a formal assurance of subsequent employment placements in nearby factories. On the infrastructure front, the Minister announced the official commencement of the **₹2,100 crore expansion of National Highway 49**, which will widen the stretch from Kanktura to Jharsuguda into a four-lane highway. Furthermore, he declared that the highly anticipated **bridge over the Ib River** is nearing completion and will be officially inaugurated within a month. Invoking Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s governance mantra—*"Inaugurate the very project for which the foundation stone was laid"*—Pujari reaffirmed his administration's commitment to timely execution, assuring residents that all local demands would be strictly fulfilled during his tenure. --- # Technology & Education Focus: Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati Launches High-Tech STEM and AI Labs in Bargarh to Empower Rural Girls Source: https://mediathepower.com/technology-education-focus-governor-dr-hari-babu-kambhampati-launches-high-tech-stem-and-ai-labs-in-bargarh-to-empower-rural-girls.md **BARAGARH:**Odisha Governor **Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati** on Sunday launched advanced **STEM, Aeromodelling, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) labs** at Kosala School in Nuakhairapali village, calling for the technological empowerment of rural girl students. The high-tech facilities—which include the **Boeing Sukanya STEM Lab** an Aeromodelling Training Centre, and a dedicated AI Lab—aim to bridge the educational divide between urban and rural sectors, particularly across western Odisha. **Bridging the Gap for Rural Talents** Addressing the gathering, Governor Kambhampati emphasized that talent should never be constrained by circumstances. He stated that the new laboratories would actively nurture curiosity, foster innovation, and help rural students translate their scientific aspirations into real-world achievements in aviation, robotics, and computer science. The STEM facility is designed to promote hands-on learning in mathematics and science, while the aeromodelling and AI centers will introduce students to emerging technologies shaping the global future. During the event, the Governor also paid tribute to the school’s late founder and visionary chairman, **Gannimani Anand Rao**, lauding his journey from a farmer to an entrepreneur dedicated to rural upliftment. The inaugural ceremony was attended by prominent dignitaries, including **Baragarh MLA Aswini Sarangi**, Attabira MLA Nihar Ranjan Mahanand, Bhatli MLA Irasis Acharya, Boeing India CSR Head Praveena Y, and School Principal Rabi Narayan Behera. --- **Celebrating Decades of Cultural Harmony** Earlier in the day, Governor Kambhampati attended the **23rd inaugural ceremony of the Koshal Andhra Cultural Association** in Attabira, celebrating over six decades of harmonious integration of the Telugu community in western Odisha. Tracing the community's roots back to the construction of the **Hirakud Dam project**, the Governor praised the Telugu diaspora for preserving their linguistic heritage and traditions—like Ugadi and Sankranti—while blending seamlessly with the local population. Highlighting the upcoming **Lord Sri Venkateswara Temple** project as a future hub for culture and social service, he called for deeper bilateral cooperation between Odisha and Andhra Pradesh across education, entrepreneurship, and sports. Attabira MLA Nihar Ranjan Mahanand and Fluent Grid CEO Gannimani Murali Krishna were also present at the cultural meet. --- # RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Addresses Mega Sangh Gathering in Sambalpur; Top Political Leaders Attend Source: https://mediathepower.com/rss-chief-mohan-bhagwat-addresses-mega-sangh-gathering-in-sambalpur-top-political-leaders-attend.md **SAMBALPUR** — Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief **Mohan Bhagwat** arrived in Sambalpur on Friday to address a massive gathering of RSS volunteers at the **Gangadhar Meher (GM) University auditorium**, drawing top political leaders and members from multiple districts. The high-profile event saw the participation of several prominent leaders, including Ex Union Minister and Sambalpur MP **Dharmendra Pradhan**, Odisha State Ministers **Suresh Pujari** and **Rabi Narayan Naik**, Sambalpur MLA **Jayanarayan Mishra**, Bargarh MLA **Ashwini Sarangi**, and Jharsuguda MLA **Tankadhar Tripathy**. Many of dedicated RSS members traveled from **Sambalpur, Bargarh, Jharsuguda, and Deogarh** districts to attend the organizational conclave. In light of the RSS chief's visit and the presence of numerous VIPs, the local administration tightened **security arrangements** across Sambalpur, deploying heavy police personnel to ensure law and order. The gathering focused on strengthening the organization's grassroots footprint ahead of its upcoming initiatives **"Sangh chief [Mohan Bhagwat](https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=%2Fm%2F05p8kcf&q=Mohan+Bhagwat)** addressed a gathering of *Swayamsevaks*, focusing on upcoming challenges, strategies to tackle them, and the core Sangh mission of nation-building, while urging everyone to contribute to the nation's development," **stated Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari.** --- # CM Majhi Meets Governor Kambhampati to Align Odisha’s Strategic Growth Priorities Source: https://mediathepower.com/cm-majhi-meets-governor-kambhampati-to-align-odishas-strategic-growth-priorities.md **BHUBANESWAR** - Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi met with Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati at the Lok Bhavan on Friday to deliberate on the state’s core development agendas and public welfare strategies. The high-level meeting centered on accelerating Odisha's economic growth, optimizing public welfare delivery, and streamlining ongoing infrastructure projects. Both exchanged views on strategic long-term initiatives designed to address the immediate needs of the public while advancing the state's socio-economic progress. According to officials, the discussion also served as a review of current government programs and established key administrative priorities for the coming days to ensure impactful governance and sustainable development across Odisha. --- # OVER 8,500 CANDIDATES FILE NOMINATIONS FOR ODISHA STUDENT UNION POLLS AFTER EIGHT-YEAR Source: https://mediathepower.com/over-8500-candidates-file-nominations-for-odisha-student-union-polls-after-eight-year.md --- **Bhubneswar**- **University and college campuses across Odisha were abuzz with political fervor** on Friday as **more than 8,500 candidates officially filed their nomination papers**, signaling a historic resurgence of campus democracy. The massive turnout officially ends an **eight-year hiatus** on student union elections in the state, injecting unprecedented energy into local higher education institutions. According to official data released by the Higher Education Department, a staggering **8,325 nominations were filed in colleges alone**, alongside hundreds of additional filings across 13 major universities—including **[Utkal University](https://www.google.com/goto?url=CAESWgHrOzAVuYJ_NU4NvXuy0RpMZ17XcSZpozvqXAU5yd8zerhQ58q-IHr15FgqUxBxdzDQYg640z781dPtc6_UMZUlGfmnNdLxdHSTtYvWBaBOJeC06bQJaoQwrA), Rama Devi Women's University,[Ravenshaw University](https://www.google.com/goto?url=CAESWgHrOzAV5W6gMddYIOy_jNkT5AVemfqkk93SctZ1M1JoFz0iifmLrDoi-QXQmfolbAptdsrzmumDgIBIap8JSYClk3ds1n4Z8ZGHjMKrG0Zi-q-cjxK4nZ0wuQ) and Sambalpur University, ** The final day of submissions turned campuses into energetic political arenas as supporters of major student groups—such as ABVP, BCJD, NSUI, and AISF—held massive rallies with traditional drums. Student leaders like Biswajit Patra (ABVP) and Sanghamitra Jena (AISF) highlighted agendas ranging from restoring democratic rights to advocating for student welfare and filling vacant faculty positions. | **Nomination & Scrutiny** | October 9, 2026 | | ----------------------------- | --------------- | | **Withdrawal Deadline** | October 10, 2026 | | **'Why I Stand For' Meeting** | October 14, 2026 | | **Official Polling & Counting** | **October 15, 2026** (8 AM–2 PM) | | **Oath-Taking Ceremony** | October 16, 2026 | To prevent a repeat of the unrest that led to the 2017 suspension, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi's administration enforced a **zero-tolerance policy toward campus violence**. Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj noted the compressed 10-day election window aims to limit friction, while police have restricted campus access to outsiders. --- # Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati Visits Maa Samaleswari Temple and Hirakud Dam on Mahalaya Source: https://mediathepower.com/odisha-governor-dr-hari-babu-kambhampati-visits-maa-samaleswari-temple-and-hirakud-dam-on-mahalaya.md **SAMBALPUR** — Odisha Governor **[Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati](https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=%2Fm%2F010lq724&q=Dr.+Hari+Babu+Kambhampati)**, accompanied by First Lady **Jayashree Kambhampati**, visited the historic **[Maa Samaleswari Temple](https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=%2Fg%2F11wvkyn4z8)** and the **[Hirakud Dam](https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=%2Fm%2F0cmyvf)** on Saturday [Oct. 10], marking the auspicious occasion of **[Mahalaya](https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=%2Fg%2F11r_h4w6st&q=Mahalaya)**. **Divine Blessings at Maa Samaleswari ** The Governor and First Lady offered prayers at the temple, seeking prosperity and well-being for the people of Odisha. Their visit coincided with **[Mahalaya](https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=%2Fg%2F11r_h4w6st&q=Mahalaya)**, a significant day when the presiding deity, Maa Samaleswari, is adorned in the sacred **Dhabalamukhi Besha** (white costume). The rare ritual draws thousands of devotees to the shrine, which is widely regarded as the spiritual and cultural heart of western Odisha. **Inspection of Hirakud Dam** Earlier in the day, the Governor visited the iconic **[Hirakud Dam](https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=%2Fm%2F0cmyvf)**, one of the world's longest earthen dams. Dr. Kambhampati inspected the massive engineering marvel built across the **Mahanadi River** and spent time viewing its sprawling reservoir, which serves as a lifeline for irrigation and power generation in the region. Local officials briefed the gubernatorial couple on the dam's history, water management capacity, and its vital role in flood control across the state. --- # Vedanta Aluminium Under Investigation Over Alleged Massive Water Theft in Jharsuguda Source: https://mediathepower.com/vedanta-aluminium-under-investigation-over-alleged-massive-water-theft-in-jharsuguda.md **Jharsuguda- **The **Odisha Department of Water Resources (DoWR)** has initiated a sweeping investigation into **M/s Vedanta Aluminium Ltd.** following severe allegations of **illegal river water lifting** and unauthorized groundwater extraction at its **Bhurkamunda facility** in the **Jharsuguda district**. The state’s **Chief Engineer of Water Services** has issued a high-priority, **"Most Urgent" directive** demanding a comprehensive, point-wise compliance report from local irrigation divisions regarding the company's historical water drawal and tax payments. The investigation focuses on multiple fronts of suspected environmental and financial non-compliance by the aluminum major. The state authorities are demanding strict documentation on: - **The Construction Era:** Verification of the exact sources and total volume of water drawn during the initial plant setup, alongside copies of original demand notices. - **Portal Discrepancies:** Clarification on temporary agreements (Form-J filings) and an explanation as to why mandatory water rate collections were **never updated online** in the state's **IWCRCM Portal**. - **Hirakud Pipeline Assets:** Production of the officially approved layout schemes and the exact timeline under which Vedanta laid its pipelines from the **Hirakud Reservoir**. --- **Corporate Gaslighting Alleged** The regulatory crackdown follows a formal grievance filed by **Satyanarayan Rao**, President of the **Anchalik Paribesh Surakhya Sangh**. The activist group raised an alarm that the industry was aggressively depleting local water tables by operating industrial borewells without valid **No Objection Certificates (NOC)** or digital flow meters. As per the letter of Satyanarayan Rao after the friction escalated into a public controversy then **Ms. Mansi Chauhan**, Vedanta’s Head of Human Resources, released a statement to the press claiming a district panel had already cleared the company of wrongdoing. Local activists swiftly retaliated with an official protest to the **District Magistrate**, calling the corporation’s statement a **"deliberate attempt to derail the inquiry process"** and pressure investigating officers before the joint committee could even file its final report. Records indicate the Odisha government had previously slapped Vedanta with a staggering **₹233 Crore demand notice** for unauthorized water usage, which the company contested as an "erroneous assessment". --- **Enforcement Measures Looming** The **Central Ground Water Board (CGWB)** has formally intervened, reminding the **Jharsuguda District Collector** of their sweeping statutory powers under the Environment (Protection) Act. If the joint inspection panel uncovers physical evidence of unauthorized water structures, the administration is fully authorized to initiate **immediate enforcement actions, including sealing industrial borewells and disconnecting electricity lines**. --- # ODISHA CABINET APPROVES MAJOR AGE RELIEF FOR GOVT JOBS; LAUNCHES AI POLICY Source: https://mediathepower.com/odisha-cabinet-approves-major-age-relief-for-govt-jobs-launches-ai-policy.md **BHUBANESWAR:** In a landmark decision aimed at expanding employment opportunities, the Odisha Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, has approved a major proposal to raise the upper age limit for entry into state government services from **32 to 42 years**. This sweeping age-limit hike applies across upcoming state recruitment cycles, though the government confirmed that uniformed services will be excluded from this relaxation. The decision is expected to widen participation and provide massive relief to thousands of job aspirants across the state who had crossed the previous age threshold. Alongside this employment boost, the Cabinet greenlit the official **Odisha Artificial Intelligence Policy**, a strategic framework designed to drive AI-powered digital governance and position the state as a tech-forward hub. Furthermore, in a bid to strengthen state-wide healthcare logistics, the Cabinet approved the launch of the **Odisha Ophthalmic Service Rules**, which will streamline and fortify eye care delivery across the state. --- # CAG Slams Odisha Land Governance: Over 12,000 Acres Allotted Between 1981 and 2021 Remain Completely Idle Source: https://mediathepower.com/cag-slams-odisha-land-governance-over-12000-acres-allotted-between-1981-and-2021-remain-completely-idle.md **BHUBANESWAR** — A damning report by the **Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)** tabled in the Odisha Legislative Assembly has exposed massive failures in the state's land governance, revealing widespread illegal conversions, weak enforcement, and thousands of acres of prime public land lying idle.The apex auditor's investigation highlights a severe lack of tracking databases and regular field inspections by key state bodies, including the **Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (IDCO)** and the Revenue Department. - **Idle Industrial Plots:** Over **12,393 acres** of land allotted for industrial purposes between 1981 and 2021 remain completely unutilized, stalling economic development. - **Unauthorized Activity:** Another **252.7 acres** of industrial land were found to be diverted for unauthorized activities. - **Illegal Conversions:** Nearly **504 acres** of agricultural land across 24 tehsils were unlawfully converted for commercial, residential, and educational uses without following legal procedures or paying required fees. - **Encroachment Losses:** Weak enforcement by local revenue officers has left **668.9 acres** of government land under illegal occupation. The CAG values this encroached public property at a staggering **₹597.87 crore**. The report calls for urgent systemic reforms, demanding that the Odisha government immediately establish robust monitoring mechanisms to track public land and initiate recovery proceedings for unutilized and encroached assets. --- # SUPREME COURT REFUSES TO SUSPEND CEC GYANESH KUMAR OVER ‘UNILATERAL’ DECISIONS; SEEKS RESPONSES FROM CENTRE, ECI Source: https://mediathepower.com/supreme-court-refuses-to-suspend-cec-gyanesh-kumar-over-unilateral-decisions-seeks-responses-from-centre-eci.md **New Delhi-The Supreme Court on Monday declined to pass** an ex-parte interim order to suspend Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, observing that it must first seek responses from the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the Centre regarding allegations that crucial decisions concerning the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) were taken unilaterally. A three-judge bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice V. Mohana issued notices to the Union of India, the ECI, CEC Gyanesh Kumar, Election Commissioners Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi, Deputy Election Commissioner Maneesh Garg, and DG (IT) Seema Khanna. During the proceedings, Senior Advocate Vikas Singh, appearing for petitioner Rakesh Kumar Singh, pressed for immediate interim directions, arguing that citizens' franchise rights were at stake. "The court has to pass some interim orders, otherwise the country will burn," Singh submitted before the bench. He contended that the CEC acted contrary to the statutory framework by bypassing Section 18 of the CEC Act, which mandates unanimous or majority-based decisions in the multi-member body. Singh alleged that 14 crucial decisions relating to the SIR exercise were taken in the Commission's name despite recorded objections from the two fellow Election Commissioners between October 2025 and August 2026. Declining to grant ex-parte relief, CJI Surya Kant questioned the feasibility of an immediate suspension, asking, "Who will conduct the elections?" if the Commission's functioning was brought to a standstill. Justice Joymalya Bagchi observed that the court cannot determine whether all decisions were unilateral without first hearing the respondents. "If records show some decision was not unanimous, we will injunct those decisions and say they are ultra-vires. Can we ex-parte come to a decision that all decisions were unilateral? We expect them to respond in a clear, transparent manner," Justice Bagchi noted, adding that orders cannot be passed solely relying on newspaper reports. The apex court also tagged a connected petition filed by Advocate Shailendra Mani Tripathi, represented by Senior Advocate Menaka Guruswamy. Tripathi’s plea seeks the quashing of the 14 unilateral decisions and the constitution of an independent Judicial Inquiry Commission or Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by a retired Supreme Court judge to conduct a forensic audit of the ECINet and ERONet databases. --- # Odisha Government Revives Student Union Elections After 8-Year Hiatus; Polling Scheduled for October 15 Source: https://mediathepower.com/odisha-government-revives-student-union-elections-after-8-year-hiatus-polling-scheduled-for-october-15.md **BHUBANESWAR** — Democracy is set to return to higher education campuses across Odisha. **It has been eight years since college elections were suspended under the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) administration; however, following the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) rise to power in Odisha, the state government has gifted students the news that elections will now be held in all colleges and universities.** On Monday, Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj officially announced that the state will conduct **student union elections on October 15, 2026**, bringing an end to the long-standing democratic drought. The critical breakthrough followed a high-level review meeting between Minister Suraj and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at the Lok Seva Bhawan in Bhubaneswar, where the roadmap to restore campus elections received official clearance. Regular student union elections were last held across the state in 2017. Subsequent elections were routinely put on hold by the previous BJD government, which cited campus unrest, natural disasters, and the COVID-19 pandemic as reasons. The Higher Education Department has structured a condensed **10-day timeline** to minimize opportunities for campus group friction and law-and-order issues: **October 9:** Eligible candidates will file their nomination papers, followed by immediate profiling and scrutiny. **October 10:** Last date for withdrawal of nominations and release of the final candidate lists. **October 14:** The traditional, much-anticipated "Why I Stand For" meetings will take place on campuses. **October 15:** **Polling and vote counting** will be conducted, with results declared on the same day. **October 16:** Newly elected student representatives will take the oath of office before noon. o guarantee a peaceful and orderly democratic exercise, Minister Suraj clarified that the standard procedures aligning with the **Supreme Court's 2005 verdict and the J. M. Lyngdoh Committee recommendations** will be strictly enforced.The state government has left the final implementation up to individual college administrations based on localized safety. If a specific campus lacks a conducive environment, or if student strength is deemed too low, colleges can adopt alternative nomination methods as practiced in previous years. According to the official departmental criteria, undergraduate degree candidates must be between **17 and 22 years of age** to contest, while postgraduate candidates have an adjusted age limit. The move directly fulfills a fundamental poll promise made in the BJP’s 2024 assembly election manifesto. Chief Minister Majhi had previously expressed clear dissatisfaction over the lengthy democratic drought, underscoring that student union bodies are essential platforms for leadership development among the state’s youth. Minister Suraj stated that the government deliberately utilized the 2025 academic session to stabilize campus environments and address foundational student issues before pushing ahead with the election machinery in 2026. The minister has urged all major political circles and campus groups to act with high responsibility to ensure the entire voting phase concludes smoothly prior to the commencement of the Dussehra vacation --- # CAG Report Sparks Political War in Odisha: BJP Targets BJD Over Alleged ₹2,880 Crore DMF Fund Misuse Source: https://mediathepower.com/cag-report-sparks-political-war-in-odisha-bjp-targets-bjd-over-alleged-%e2%82%b92880-crore-dmf-fund-misuse.md **BHUBANESWAR** — The ruling [Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)](https://www.thestatesman.com/bhubaneswar/bjp-cites-cag-findings-to-target-bjd-over-wasteful-spending-of-dmf-funds-1503645244.html) has launched a fierce political counter-offensive against the opposition [Biju Janata Dal (BJD)](https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/2026/Oct/01/cornered-over-mmdr-odisha-bjp-finds-cag-dmf-ammo-to-hit-hard-at-bjd), citing a newly tabled performance audit by the **Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)**. The report has exposed **large-scale irregular spending and severe lapses** in the utilisation of District Mineral Foundation (DMF) funds between 2015-16 and 2023-24 under the previous Naveen Patnaik-led government. According to the CAG report recently tabled in the Odisha state Assembly, widespread irregularities involving nearly **₹2,880 crore in DMF funds** were detected across mineral-rich districts, including Keonjhar, Sundargarh, and Jajpur. Key highlights from the audit include **Diversion of Funds:** Approximately **₹983 crore** was spent on infrastructure and development projects in villages completely unaffected by mining operations, while **584 directly affected villages were entirely excluded** from benefits and **Wasteful Expenditures:** Public money intended for tribal and mining-affected communities was diverted toward **renovating reading rooms at district collectors' residences**, refurbishing municipality offices, buying police patrolling vehicles, and constructing a hockey stadium. Armed with the audit findings, BJP spokespersons Dr. Tapan Chand and Anil Biswal escalated their attack, accusing the BJD regime of "looting" funds meant for marginalized communities. "The BJD must clarify who pocketed the DMF funds meant for the tribal and poor populations," Biswal stated during a press conference. The ruling party has formally challenged the BJD to an open debate regarding the CAG findings. The counter-offensive comes at a crucial time when the BJP itself was facing heat from the BJD over recent amendments to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (MMDR) Act. --- # CRUCIAL BREAKTHROUGH IN MISSING ODISHA CMO FILES CASE: PANDIAN, TWO OTHER EX-BUREAUCRATS DEPOSE BEFORE CRIME BRANCH Source: https://mediathepower.com/crucial-breakthrough-in-missing-odisha-cmo-files-case-pandian-two-other-ex-bureaucrats-depose-before-crime-branch.md BHUBNEWSAR- The ongoing high-profile investigation into the mysterious disappearance of sensitive files from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) entered a decisive phase after the [Odisha Crime Branch](https://www.google.com/goto?url=CAESYwHrOzAVNmmZRyyhf_TrPiIEsMV5COoGWhB7rU6Jm6dyxEmX6q0RqJ7tEV3l8Gc6UuOv9Kwvm8aEzOfaXnkljc0d1PZOBWTNp4QWFFcWKmBfgUlw-Py8HH7WmJGps0M3kVklRg) recorded the statements of former senior bureaucrats **VK Pandian**, **Rajesh Verma**, and **Manoj Mishra**. Crime Branch Inspector General of Police (IGP) Sarthak Sarangi confirmed that all three key officials from the previous Biju Janata Dal (BJD) administration formally deposed and recorded their statements regarding the movement of the missing files. In what is being termed a major breakthrough, the Crime Branch has established a definitive trail for the missing records. According to Crime Branch IGP Sarangi, the three former bureaucrats explicitly **accepted that the CMO had officially received the files** under the previous Naveen Patnaik administration. The probe agency has also successfully retrieved official receipt copies confirming the arrival of the documents at the CMO.Despite acknowledging receipt, the current whereabouts of the documents remain unknown as the officials stated they were unaware of their present location. The investigation focuses on two vital reports missing since the June 2024 transition of power: - **The Justice AS Naidu Commission Report:** Investigating the 2008 Kandhamal violence and assassination of Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati. - **The SUM Hospital Fire Inquiry Report:** Examining the tragic 2016 Bhubaneswar hospital fire Following an FIR lodged on June 10 and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi handing the case to the Crime Branch on July 28, the probe continues. Investigators caution that it is premature to allege deliberate theft, treating the matter currently as missing official records while examining file routing. The inquiry may expand to other former political executives, with investigations actively ongoing. --- # India–US Trade Talks Hit ‘Plateau’ Over Deep Demands, Says Sitharaman Source: https://mediathepower.com/india-us-trade-talks-hit-plateau-over-deep-demands-says-sitharaman.md **NEW DELHI** — Negotiations for a long-anticipated bilateral trade pact between India and the United States have **reached a “plateau,”** making further demands or concessions highly difficult for both nations, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced on Monday. Speaking at the Munich Leaders Meeting in New Delhi, Sitharaman described the ongoing talks as "hard and very rigorously negotiated". While she maintained that dialogues are still active, she indicated that both sides have effectively hit a wall regarding what they can compromise on. - **The Deficit Dilemma:** The current trade balance strongly favors India. Washington is aggressively pushing for market access to reduce its trade deficit, citing historical losses. - **Unfair Trade Probes:** Complicating matters, Washington launched an investigation into unfair trade practices targeting multiple nations, including India. - **Strategic Redlines:** India continues to prioritize safeguarding its own economically sensitive domains like agriculture, dairy, and domestic manufacturing. The stagnation comes as a stark contrast to recent optimistic projections. In June, US Ambassador Sergio Gor claimed the deal was 99% finalized. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal also referred to it as "almost done and dusted" just last month. However, following Goyal's meeting with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Washington last week, American officials tempered expectations, noting that while the pact is in its final stages, an agreement is "not imminent". Contrasting EU Success While Washington talks stall, New Delhi is making definitive economic strides elsewhere. Sitharaman confirmed that **India and the European Union are set to officially sign their Free Trade Agreement (FTA) this December**. Crucially, she noted that India's imports of Russian crude oil did not act as a deterrent or feature as a condition in the EU deal. This highlights India’s success in isolating its energy strategy from its geopolitical trade frameworks. --- # Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Marks Historic 2,000th Aero-Engine Delivery at HAL Koraput; Unveils ₹218-Crore Shakti Engine Expansion Source: https://mediathepower.com/defence-minister-rajnath-singh-marks-historic-2000th-aero-engine-delivery-at-hal-koraput-unveils-%e2%82%b9218-crore-shakti-engine-expansion.md Bhubneswar — Defence Minister **Rajnath Singh** is scheduled to inaugurate a landmark milestone today, October 6, 2026, celebrating the delivery of the **2,000th aero-engine** by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) at its Koraput Division The event marks nearly 60 years of the facility's contribution to India’s aerospace, defence manufacturing capabilities, and the operational readiness of the Armed Force. - **Expansion of Shakti Engine Production:** The Defence Minister will announce the establishment of a second production line for **Shakti engines**, backed by an investment of **₹218 crore** - **Boosting Indigenous Platforms:** This new capacity is designed to support the escalating propulsion requirements of indigenous helicopter platforms, specifically the **Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter** and the **Prachand Light Combat Helicopter** - **Strategic Vision:** The milestone aligns with the government’s broader directive to transition India from a defence equipment buyer into a self-reliant designer, developer, and manufacturer [0]. Building indigenous aero-engine capabilities is considered highly critical due to the technical complexity of propulsion systems Prominent dignitaries attending the ceremony alongside the Defence Minister include Odisha Chief Minister **Mohan Charan Majhi**, Secretary of Defence Production **Sanjeev Kumar**, and HAL Chairman and Managing Director **Ravi K**. --- # BJP Flags Off ‘Seva Jyoti Rath’ in Jharsuguda to Promote Central Welfare Schemes; Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari Highlights Focus on Development Source: https://mediathepower.com/bjp-flags-off-seva-jyoti-rath-in-jharsuguda-to-promote-central-welfare-schemes-revenue-minister-suresh-pujari-highlights-focus-on-development.md **JHARSUGUDA:** The District Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) organized a grand **'Seva Jyoti' program** on the premises of Manmohan School in Jharsuguda city, drawing widespread participation from local residents and party workers. The centerpiece of the program, the **'Seva Jyoti Rath'**, was flagged off from the school venue and rolled through the major thoroughfares of Jharsuguda city. The initiative aimed at educating citizens about the various welfare and development schemes launched by the Central Government. A large screen was set up at the event grounds to air a live virtual address by the Prime Minister, which was witnessed by a massive gathering of locals. ![](https://mediathepower.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/tshrthrh-1024x580.jpg) Speaking on the occasion, Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari stated, "Through this 'Seva Jyoti Yatra', our core focus is to ensure that the message of service and development reaches every household. The various people-oriented schemes launched by the Central Government are designed to uplift every section of society. This Seva Jyoti Rath serves as a bridge between the government's initiatives and the citizens of Jharsuguda." The rally generated significant enthusiasm across the city as party leaders interacted with the public to spread awareness about central welfare initiatives. --- # Sharp U-Turn: BJD Refuses To Align With Congress-Led INDI Alliance For Tomorrow’s Shutdown Source: https://mediathepower.com/sharp-u-turn-bjd-refuses-to-align-with-congress-led-indi-alliance-for-tomorrows-shutdown.md Bhubaneswar- The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) announced on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, that it is not part of the INDI alliance and will not participate in October 8,2026 shutdown. The regional party explicitly clarified that the Biju Janata Dal is not aligning with the Congress and other INDI alliance parties for tomorrow's event, underscoring its stance of maintaining equal distance from both the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The decision marks a sharp, high-profile U-turn after senior BJD leader and Opposition Chief Whip Pramila Mallik initially told reporters earlier in the day that the party would extend its full support to the shutdown. Within roughly 30 minutes of her initial statement, Mallik held a second press conference to officially clarify that the BJD is not part of the active bandh. According to statements from Mallik on October 7, 2026, participating in a physical shutdown alongside the opposition bloc would misrepresent the party as being part of a political coalition. She emphasized that the organizers of the bandh did not consult the BJD before declaring the event. - While the BJD aligns with specific issues raised by the opposition—such as protesting the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls—the party maintains that its protests will remain independent. BJD Rajya Sabha MPs had previously joined an opposition march in New Delhi regarding voter roll mismanagement, but the party strictly draws the line at joining a Congress-led alliance or event. The party reiterated that it stands independently in its fight for the interests of the people of Odisha. Mallik referenced a recent economic blockade the BJD held in Sundargarh, noting that no other political parties stepped up to support them at that time, and the BJD will continue to operate on its own terms. The sudden reversal has drawn immense attention across regional political circles, shutting down temporary speculation about shifts in the state's opposition dynamics. --- # 400 Senior Citizens From Jharsuguda Set Off For Puri Under ‘Shri Jagannath Darshan’ Yojana Source: https://mediathepower.com/400-senior-citizens-from-jharsuguda-set-off-for-puri-under-shri-jagannath-darshan-yojana.md **JHARSUGUDA** — Under the Odisha state government’s senior citizen pilgrimage initiative, **'Shri Jagannath Darshan,'** a special group of approximately **400 senior citizens** from the Jharsuguda district officially departed for the holy town of Shrikhetra, Puri, on Wednesday evening. The journey was flagged off during a grand ceremony held at 5:00 PM at the local Manmohan Ground. **Shri Suresh Pujari**, Hon'ble Minister of Revenue and Disaster Management, attended as the chief guest, alongside Jharsuguda MLA **Shri Tankadhar Tripathi**, who attended as the guest of honour. Together, they flagged off the state-run OSRTC buses carrying the pilgrims. Speaking at the gathering, Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari emphasized the state’s dedication to the welfare of the elderly. "The State Government is always committed to the welfare and dignity of senior citizens. In our culture, serving one's parents is paramount," Pujari said. He urged today's youth and Gen-Z to draw inspiration from the mythological character 'Shravan Kumar' to care for their parents, adding that the government feels privileged to act as 'Shravan Kumar' for the state's senior citizens by enabling this sacred journey. MLA Tankadhar Tripathy echoed these sentiments, highlighting the cultural significance of the trip. "Visiting the holy shrine and having a glimpse of the Lord is a cherished lifelong dream for every Odia," Tripathy remarked, affirming that such community-focused initiatives will continue in the future Before the departure, the visiting dignitaries boarded the buses to interact with the travelers and review their accommodations. Many pilgrims, including Khaturam Tanti from Brajrajnagar, expressed deep emotional gratitude to the administration for making the lifelong dream of a Puri pilgrimage possible. To ensure the safety and well-being of the elderly passengers, the district administration has deployed a dedicated **'Shravan Kumar Team'** alongside a specialized medical team to accompany the caravan throughout the entire journey. The event saw attendance from several prominent local figures, including Zilla Parishad Chairperson Smt. Tulabati Minz, Chief Development Officer Shri Biswaranjan Nayak, Additional District Magistrate Shri Brajabandhu Bhoi, and Sub-Collector Shri Sabyasachi Panda. The proceedings were coordinated by District Information and Public Relations Officer Ritakanti Baliyarsingh and Sub-divisional IPRO Krushnakeshi Baliyarsingh. The convoy finally commenced its journey toward Puri amidst the traditional sounding of *Hulahuli* (ululation) and resounding chants of "Jai Jagannath" and "Haribol." --- # INDI Alliance Stages 12-Hour Odisha Bandh Over Mining Law and Textbook Rows; Transport and Businesses Hit Source: https://mediathepower.com/indi-alliance-stages-12-hour-odisha-bandh-over-mining-law-and-textbook-rows-transport-and-businesses-hit.md **BHUBANESWAR**: A 12-hour statewide shutdown (*bandh*) called by opposition parties aligned with the **INDI Alliance** brought mixed results across **Odisha** on Thursday, October 8, 2026. While the strike successfully disrupted transport and shuttered businesses in several districts, its overall impact remained limited due to low public participation.The protest, which began at 6:00 AM, was organized to demand the withdrawal of a controversial new mining law, the resignation of School and Mass Education Minister **Nityananda Gond** over alleged errors in school textbooks, and administrative action regarding suspected irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. - **Mixed Public Response:** The overall impact of the shutdown was described as moderate to low in several regions, as a lower turnout of active protesters prevented a complete standstill. - **Partial Disruption:** In areas where the strike took hold, shops, business establishments, petrol pumps, and educational institutions remained closed during the morning hours. Public transport, including buses, autorickshaws, and taxis, faced disruptions, leaving commuters stranded at major terminuses. - **Highway Blockades:** Demonstrators carrying party flags blocked key intersections and national highways by burning tires. Major protest points included **Bhubaneswar**, **Cuttack**, **Bargarh**, **Bhadrak**, **Balasore**, **Rayagada**, **Kendrapara**, **Bolangir**, **Berhampur**, **Jharsuguda**, and **Sambalpur**. - **Essential Services Operational:** Emergency and essential services—including hospitals, ambulance networks, fire services, pharmacies, and milk supply lines—were strictly excluded from the strike's scope and functioned normally. The joint front for the shutdown included several alliance partners: the Indian National Congress, CPI, CPI(M), CPI(ML) Liberation, Forward Bloc, NCP (Sharad Pawar), Samajwadi Party, RJD, and JMM. Senior police officials confirmed that extensive security arrangements were deployed across vulnerable zones to maintain law and order. Ahead of the protest, authorities held discussions with organizers to ensure that all demonstrations remained peaceful and within constitutional limits, preventing any major untoward incidents. --- # JOSH Program Launched at District Level in Jharsuguda to Boost Public Health and Social Awareness Source: https://mediathepower.com/josh-program-launched-at-district-level-in-jharsuguda-to-boost-public-health-and-social-awareness.md **JHARSURGUDA:** The district-level launch of the **Joint Squad of Health (JOSH) program** was held today at the Zilla Parishad Conference Hall in Jharsuguda. The event coincided with the national-level launch organized jointly by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, and the Ministry of Defence at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Key officials and representatives from various district departments actively participated in the program. Attendees included all Block Development Officers (BDOs), Chief District Medical & Public Health Officers (CDM&PHOs), District Public Health Officers (DPHOs), Assistant District Public Health Officers (ADPHOs), the District Public Relations Officer (DPRO), the District Youth Officer, MY Bharat coordinators, and NCC personnel. A newly formed **'JOSH' team** has been constituted, comprising MY Bharat volunteers, NCC cadets, and officials representing all blocks of the district. The primary objective of this team is to work collaboratively in the fields of public health and social awareness. --- # Odisha Vigilance Raids Multiple Properties of Sundargarh Watershed Project Director Over Disproportionate Assets Allegations Source: https://mediathepower.com/odisha-vigilance-raids-multiple-properties-of-sundargarh-watershed-project-director-over-disproportionate-assets-allegations.md **Sundarghar- Odisha Vigilance launched simultaneous raids at eight locations** linked to Prasanna Kumar Patra, Deputy Director of Soil Conservation-cum-Project Director of the Watershed Project in Sundargarh, over allegations of possessing **disproportionate assets (DA)**.The operations commenced Friday morning under warrants from the Special Judge, Vigilance, Sundargarh, utilizing a large team of over 20 officers including DSPs and Inspectors. **Sundargarh:** His government quarters and official workspace at the Office of the Deputy Director of Soil Conservation. **Bhubaneswar:** Flat No. 8 at Shrabani Residency in Nayapalli and a property in Balianta, Khordha district. **Cuttack:** His in-laws' residence in Charchika village, Banki Authorized by the Special Judge, Vigilance, Sundargarh, a large enforcement team executed the operations across Bhubaneswar, Sundargarh, and Cuttack. Properties searched include a flat in Bhubaneswar, a residential property in Khordha district, his office and government quarters in Sundargarh, and his in-laws' residence in Banki. Investigators have seized key financial records, bank documents, and property deeds as the asset valuation process continues. --- # RECRUITMENT SCAM: ED Crackdown on SI Paper Leak; 10 Premises Raided in Odisha, Bengal Source: https://mediathepower.com/recruitment-scam-ed-crackdown-on-si-paper-leak-10-premises-raided-in-odisha-bengal.md **BHUBANESWAR:** In a major crackdown on institutional corruption, the **Enforcement Directorate (ED)** on Friday launched simultaneous search operations at **10 locations across Odisha and West Bengal**. The multi-city raids are part of an intensifying money-laundering investigation into the high-profile **Odisha Police Sub-Inspector (SI) recruitment examination paper leak case**. The early-morning operations, spearheaded by the ED's Bhubaneswar zone in close coordination with state police and central security forces, targeted the residences and offices of key suspects, alleged middlemen, and technological firms linked to the examination infrastructure. Prominent among the properties raided were those connected to individuals already named in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) chargesheet. According to highly placed official sources, the searches focused on - **Muna Mohanty:** The suspected central middleman currently lodged in jail, whose property in Kalapathar was thoroughly searched. - **Silicon Techlab Private Limited:** The premises and offices of Managing Director Suresh Nayak. - **Panchsoft Technology Private Limited:** Properties linked to director Shankar Prusty. The federal agency is closely examining the roles of these examination-conducting agencies and their directors to determine how the security of the test papers was compromised.The roots of the financial probe stem from a dramatic operation executed by the Odisha Police on September 30 last year. Acting on specific intelligence, police forces intercepted three commercial buses near Ichhapuram, a strategic town on the **Odisha-Andhra Pradesh border**. Inside, authorities found 114 candidates being covertly transported to a secure location to memorize the leaked question papers just days before the scheduled October exam. Investigation updates revealed that a sophisticated syndicate had lured candidates, demanding illicit cash payments ranging between **₹15 lakh and ₹30 lakh per candidate**. In a sinister twist, the racketeers had also confiscated the candidates' original academic certificates as collateral to ensure final payment post-selection. Following the initial state police FIR, the gravity of the interstate nexus prompted a full transfer of the case to the CBI, which subsequently filed a massive chargesheet naming 122 individuals. The sudden leaks led to the abrupt cancellation of the SI recruitment drive last year, sparking widespread student protests and political outrage across the state. As central investigators sift through piles of seized documents, computer hard drives, and financial ledgers at the Bhubaneswar ED headquarters, officials indicate that more arrests and property attachments under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) are highly imminent --- # EARTHQUAKE RISK LOOMS OVER LAKHANPUR AND HIRAKUD SUBMERGED AREAS Source: https://mediathepower.com/earthquake-risk-looms-over-lakhanpur-and-hirakud-submerged-areas.md **JHARSUGUDA:** Experts are calling for heightened vigilance in Jharsuguda district as new data reveals that approximately 11% of the region's land area—specifically the Lakhanpur block and the submerged areas of the Hirakud reservoir—falls under Seismic Zone-3, indicating a moderate risk for earthquakes. The warning is particularly significant given the district's extensive coal mining operations, dense industrial establishments, and heavy infrastructure. According to the State Disaster Management Plan, about 42.1% of the district's total area is considered seismically sensitive to varying degrees. While the remaining majority of the district lies within the lower-risk Seismic Zone-2, the convergence of dense populations and heavy industry in the Zone-3 belt sharply elevates the potential impact of any seismic event. While Jharsuguda has no history of large-scale seismic devastation, the surrounding region is no stranger to tectonic activity. Records show that several mild to moderate earthquakes have struck within a 150-kilometre radius of the district over the past century. A 4.8-magnitude earthquake was recorded just 49 kilometres from Jharsuguda in 1902. More recently, tremors ranging from 4.2 to 4.9 on the Richter scale were felt in neighbouring Sundargarh and surrounding areas in 1995 and 2009. Tectonic experts warn that these past incidents mean the region should not be considered entirely immune to future activity. Because a massive population resides alongside the heavily mechanized coal fields of Lakhanpur, safety compliance has become a matter of urgency. Experts emphasize that all new infrastructure and industrial plants must strictly adhere to earthquake-resistant construction standards. Local authorities are urging immediate safety assessments and regular structural audits of older buildings, critical industrial facilities, and heavy machinery installations to identify vulnerabilities before a crisis occurs. Disaster management officials are pressing for immediate preventative measures, including mandatory regular mock drills and disaster training across local schools, residential zones, and industrial sites. Authorities and corporate entities are also being advised to review and update emergency evacuation routes, medical first-aid readiness, and rapid rescue arrangements. While officials clarify that the Zone-3 classification does not mean a major disaster is imminent, they stress that proactive preparation in the Lakhanpur and Hirakud areas is essential to mitigating risks and protecting lives in the future. --- # Dharmendra Pradhan Accuses Naveen Patnaik of Misleading Public Over Mining Amendments, Cites 2020 Letters Source: https://mediathepower.com/dharmendra-pradhan-accuses-naveen-patnaik-of-misleading-public-over-mining-amendments-cites-2020-letters.md **BHUBANESWAR** — Former union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and senior BJP leaders have strongly defended the recent mining amendments, stating that the new regulations establish a **transparent national framework** and **cap excessive multi-level taxes** that previously threatened to shut down mining operations. Speaking on the matter, Pradhan sharply criticized former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, accusing him of **misleading the public**. To support his claims, the Union Minister cited official letters written by the previous BJD-led Odisha government in 2020. According to Pradhan, those documents allegedly requested pricing modifications that directly **favoured a private industrial house** at the expense of state revenues. BJP leadership emphasized that the current legislative updates are designed to safeguard state exchequers while ensuring long-term sustainability and transparency across the mining sector. --- # G7 Unleashes 100M Barrels from Strategic Reserves to Tame Energy Crisis Under U.S. Export Threats Source: https://mediathepower.com/g7-unleashes-100m-barrels-from-strategic-reserves-to-tame-energy-crisis-under-u-s-export-threats.md New Delhi— In a massive, coordinated bid to calm chaotic global energy markets, seven world powers have agreed to immediately release **100 million barrels of crude oil and diesel** from their strategic emergency stockpiles. The emergency measure was finalized Friday during a high-stakes video conference chaired by French President **Emmanuel Macron**. The aggressive intervention follows intense geopolitical pressure from U.S. President **Donald Trump**, who threatened a total ban on U.S. diesel exports unless European allies deployed their massive reserves. Following the agreement, Washington abandoned the ban, and all **G7 member nations** pledged to keep energy trade routes open without mutual restrictions. The emergency release is strategically structured to front-load fuel into a strained global logistics network over the next four months: - **Total Release**: 100 million barrels - **Fuel Split**: 50 million barrels of diesel / 50 million barrels of crude oil - **Immediate Relief**: Massive diesel injections will hit the market within the first **20 days** - **Duration**: Full distribution spread across **4 months** --- Global fuel supply chains are buckling under severe systemic strain. While crude oil availability shows mild signs of improvement, retail diesel prices are skyrocketing due to extensive disruptions to refining operations. - **Middle East Conflict**: Ongoing hostilities involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran have severely damaged regional refining infrastructure. - **Shipping Disruptions**: Critical maritime trade routes remain highly compromised. - **Infrastructure Attacks**: Recent Houthi strikes on **Saudi Aramco** facilities have compounded supply anxieties. While global markets reel, India's BJP government, led by Prime Minister **Narendra Modi**, has largely shielded domestic consumers from the worst of the volatility, maintaining stable retail prices. However, New Delhi's administrative resilience faces a looming trial. President Trump has issued fresh threats to impose a **100% tariff** on Indian goods if the country continues its heavy procurement of discounted Russian oil. Analysts warn that balancing U.S. trade relations with India's domestic energy security will test the limits of Modi's diplomatic acumen. Energy experts remain deeply divided on whether the G7's 100-million-barrel injection will provide lasting relief, warning that prices will remain volatile until geopolitical tensions ease and standard physical trade routes are entirely secured. --- # Odisha Faculty Recruitment: Governor Sets November Deadline for University Teaching Posts Source: https://mediathepower.com/odisha-faculty-recruitment-governor-sets-november-deadline-for-university-teaching-posts.md Bhubaneswar: Governor and Chancellor of Universities Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati on Saturday asked vice-chancellors of state public universities to initiate the recruitment process for vacant teaching posts by the first week of November and complete it by the end of the month. He was speaking at a meeting on the ongoing recruitment of teaching faculty in state public universities at the conference room of New Abhishek Hall on the Lok Bhavan premises. Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Higher Education Department Aravind Agrawal, vice-chancellors and registrars of state public universities, senior department officials and senior officials from Lok Bhavan attended the meeting. Kambhampati said filling vacant teaching posts was the next major challenge after the appointment of vice-chancellors in state universities. Recalling that vice-chancellors of 14 universities were appointed on a single day after he assumed office as Governor, he said clear timelines should now be set for completing the faculty recruitment process. “Merit should be the priority in the appointment of teaching faculty. Quality and merit cannot be compromised,” the Governor said, stressing the need to recruit the best available faculty. The Governor also suggested that all eligible applicants be called for interviews instead of extensive shortlisting and scrutiny at the initial stage. Such a process, he said, would ensure that no eligible candidate felt excluded while giving interview panels a wider pool of candidates to choose from. Kambhampati also urged universities to pursue green certification, citing the platinum certification received by Odisha Lok Bhavan from the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC). Most universities already have substantial green cover, he said, adding that they could secure certification with some additional efforts. He also sought details from universities pursuing accreditation and suggested a common tenure for vice-chancellors across state public universities. “There are some universities where the vice-chancellor has a three-year tenure and some have four years. There should be a common tenure,” he said. The Governor further urged universities to adopt solar power on their campuses, either through their own initiatives or under the Renewable Energy Service Company (RESCO) model. Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj endorsed the Governor’s suggestions and asked vice-chancellors to set timelines for completing the recruitment process. Commissioner-cum-Secretary Aravind Agrawal made a presentation on the status of teaching faculty recruitment in state public universities during the meeting. --- # Odisha DGP Binayatosh Mishra Reviews Northern Range Security; Identifies Cybercrime and Drugs as Top Priorities Source: https://mediathepower.com/odisha-dgp-binayatosh-mishra-reviews-northern-range-security-identifies-cybercrime-and-drugs-as-top-priorities.md **SAMBALPUR:** Odisha's interim Director General of Police (DGP), **Binayatosh Mishra**, conducted a high-level security and law-and-order review meeting at the Northern Range DIG office on saturday. The meeting was attended by the Superintendents of Police (SPs) from five key districts under the Northern Range—**Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, Bargarh, Subarnapur, and Balangir**. The discussions primarily focused on stepping up crime control, reviewing security preparations for the upcoming festive season, and strengthening overall police operations across the region. Briefing the media after the meeting, DGP Mishra announced that the state police have identified **cybercrime control** and achieving a **drug-free Odisha** as their top operational priorities. "Special emphasis is being laid on raising public awareness against cyber fraud and ensuring meticulous investigation of cybercrime cases," Mishra stated. To support this, the review outlined plans to upgrade the technical skills of police personnel stationed at specialized cyber police stations, as well as officers handling cases at regular police stations. The DGP assured that the Police Headquarters will provide all necessary resources and administrative support to the districts to bridge infrastructure gaps. In line with the state’s mission for a "Nasha Mukt Odisha" (Drug-Free Odisha), the DGP led detailed strategic discussions on choking the supply chains of illegal narcotics. The police administration will aggressively target the cross-district transportation and sale of illicit cough syrup and cannabis (ganja), reinforcing strict enforcement across all five districts. Additionally, with major regional and national festivals around the corner, DGP Mishra thoroughly inspected security frameworks. He instructed the district SPs to establish seamless inter-district coordination, heighten active patrolling, and execute robust crime prevention strategies to ensure peaceful celebrations --- # Landslide in Koraput: High-Voltage Tower Collapses Near Maliguda, Paralysing Train Services Source: https://mediathepower.com/landslide-in-koraput-high-voltage-tower-collapses-near-maliguda-paralysing-train-services.md **KORAPUT**:Train services on the **Koraput–Jagdalpur line** have been severely disrupted after a massive landslide and the collapse of a **132-kV high-voltage power transmission tower** near [Maliguda railway station](https://www.google.com/goto?url=CAEStgEB6zswFQUUtjj4cCqRCa6ZleuaSibyCHEGjcaSU1gKFPFjK3JcW1QsanvvntNMQJsiEEDJigwHgC3hFW8ZRBYH1XH_HHQDFf8xzHgSJ0bNodLP8-cvkJtg9hvEFZZ-kKEF4V6InXFXbyGCngIWObkvfn4273gNV2L2jXNz2z21k_S8cIk-W76XGQQpr9EQMoCu9nxZEnn3Ga3Aa1q8wDWWTpUVaLKkVQvsjw54Vpa-7qD1mvm3Mg). The incident, triggered by heavy rainfall and gale-force winds under the influence of a deep depression, led to severe structural damage to the regional railway infrastructure. Saturated soil and relentless winds caused the massive electricity tower to buckle and topple directly onto the railway corridor. The line was managed by the **Orissa Power Transmission Corporation Limited (OPTCL)** and In addition to the tower collapse, landslides hit multiple points along the stretch between fed power to the railway network and **Maliguda and Chhatriput**. Approximately 50 metres of the rail track section was buried under mud and debris, resulting in track subsidence. Train communication between Jeypore and Koraput came to a complete halt. The [East Coast Railway (ECoR)](https://www.google.com/goto?url=CAES0AEB6zswFZtwGEO6h6d5Hany2Mc1SX1lhoR3Z0Y978R0TyhAzujUnF6uk-nPWHot46jT_FZLm_lf9TeaN-ljjBG80k4E6nraI-SjwnWTgrnjsiWuyNh3O5Hu5mu9A6adETKJcINt7Evzedhs1tQiaOvuqhh0eTnO3dFDlxQLafHF4M2K7GFKHV8vQpL0XVj22A5wHom6JgHmX2vz6uesg857QqVFvbv2oehFhYFxtR3WW3CvVcOhRyMLx_rqGflYD-Cs2jKtPoRZX8BohPVxpweD) has cancelled, short-terminated, or diverted multiple trains on the route to ensure passenger safety. No casualties have been reported from the site. Officials and emergency engineering teams from the [East Coast Railway](https://www.google.com/goto?url=CAESnQEB6zswFVhu4-q13s0bD3DAjvMbm7d2k8s4C-gJ1bcDKBRhZgM29vsLyWnwdaK4JDWq4Y_c6MG2RXlSXWk3ZiT4qmIsUwJGdp8Kx-6pCV7ZXRDQ1S2zxrW7iZYiDerv9nVDLXEkKOFD6V7xpzvrGPtspjMJanxGXLejjjC4ZZHUXAlXkIOCT2I5BBJ4pvi7dK25NgnRCmV1V_N8mSLg) and OPTCL have mobilized heavy earth-moving machinery to the area and restoration operations are currently underway on a war footing to clear the landslide debris, repair the buckled tracks, and restore power transmission lines. --- # Odisha CM Mohan Majhi Suspends Two Senior Officials After 48 Hours in Judicial Custody Source: https://mediathepower.com/odisha-cm-mohan-majhi-suspends-two-senior-officials-after-48-hours-in-judicial-custody.md **BHUBANESWAR:** Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has officially approved the suspension of two senior government officials following their arrest and subsequent detention in jail for more than 48 hours. The suspended officials have been identified as Arun Kumar Biswal, Additional Secretary of the Commerce and Transport Department, and Sujit Kumar Raul, the Senior Superintendent of Cuttack Circle Jail. According to government regulations, any public servant who remains in judicial custody for over 48 hours is automatically subject to suspension. **Additional Secretary Arrested on Grave Charges** Arun Kumar Biswal was arrested by the Kharavela Nagar police following a serious criminal complaint lodged against him by a female colleague. The complainant accused the senior bureaucrat of rape, abduction, and murder. Following the initial complaint, local police officially recorded the woman's statement and placed Biswal under arrest. He was subsequently taken to Capital Hospital for a mandatory medical examination before being remanded to judicial custody. **Jail Superintendent Suspended Over Convict Escape** In a separate development, Sujit Kumar Raul, Senior Superintendent of Cuttack Circle Jail, was arrested in connection with the recent escape of two convicts from custody. Following his arrest, Raul was sent to the Choudwar Circle Jail. Because both Biswal and Raul remained in jail for more than the 48-hour threshold, the state government enforced standard civil service regulations to place them under immediate suspension pending further investigation. --- # Odisha Weather Update: Deep Depression Weakens into Depression; Heavy Rain Fury Continues Source: https://mediathepower.com/odisha-weather-update-deep-depression-weakens-into-depression-heavy-rain-fury-continues.md **BHUBANESWAR** — The intense **deep depression** that battered parts of the region with heavy downpours has officially **weakened into a depression** over south interior Odisha and adjoining Chhattisgarh. According to the latest bulletin from the [India Meteorological Department (IMD)](https://www.google.com/goto?url=CAESUgHrOzAVGgreseFBN-B53B93AaBmS0xe0en-vO7enPOPBTmV44I1CYT3R0HDBfMU8x4iZwLj78M-yjM8trM6LRcZIMAfpydGowM9agtOGHL2ibo), the system is moving north-northwestwards at a speed of 15 kmph and is expected to **weaken further** into a well-marked low-pressure area over the next 12 to 24 hours. As of Friday morning, the system lay centered close to Nuapada in Odisha, roughly 90 km west-northwest of Titlagarh. **Current Status:** Downgraded from a deep depression to a depression, with a projected transition into a low-pressure area. **Impacted Areas:** Southern and interior districts including Koraput, Malkangiri, Kalahandi, and Nabarangpur remain under close watch due to swelling rivers and localized waterlogging. **Precautionary Measures:** The Odisha state government has already evacuated more than 8,000 people from low-lying, flood-prone, and landslide-vulnerable zones to safer shelters. Emergency relief operations are actively underway. **Current Position**Near Nuapada (Odisha), roughly 120 km southeast of Raipur (Chhattisgarh). **Movement Speed**15 kmph north-northwestwards.**Next 12 Hours**Expected to maintain depression intensity before further dissipation .**Advisory**High-intensity rain warnings persist for several districts; residents are advised to avoid waterlogged areas. Though the wind speeds are gradually decreasing, the [IMD Odisha Centre](https://www.google.com/goto?url=CAESigEB6zswFUsXyRaXlsZ3zHY6qKHJ8nQjmxcar_5ZNjzJ6c4xtOXCEO507b6HE5pLmKQVCU_Wsybx1rh5BPQg-LUcVVtyqYJFbfoACtbAmFomT41H58XCBvNZj34Bw9z6FdbdzUIwYSz8gtsPvZpGnWPiipGTaducpkHhG8YQ0PqsPQS4dLmnOiv1Bqs) maintains a heavy rainfall warning for the next 24 hours, alerting citizens against lightning and minor flash floods in vulnerable terrains. --- # BJP MLA Tankadhar Tripathy Confronts Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari Over Flood Relief in Odisha Assembly Source: https://mediathepower.com/bjp-mla-tankadhar-tripathy-confronts-revenue-minister-suresh-pujari-over-flood-relief-in-odisha-assembly.md **BHUBANESWAR:** In a striking display of internal accountability, Jharsuguda MLA Tankadhar Tripathy and Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari engaged in a sharp exchange on the floor of the Odisha Vidhan Sabha during the question hour on the third day of the Assembly's monsoon session.The high-stakes discussion centered on the widespread devastation triggered by recent torrential rainfall and floods across the state. Tripathy, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislator, directed tough questions at his own party colleague's department, demanding a transparent evaluation of grassroots-level management, relief distribution efficiency, and the precise assessment of house and property damage within local blocks. Replying to the intense questioning, Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari tabled a comprehensive status report detailing the massive scale of the natural disaster. According to the government report, over 37 lakh people across 26 districts have been severely affected by the severe weather. The floods have claimed 7 human lives, resulted in the loss of 93 livestock, and caused extensive agricultural damage spanning 2.12 lakh hectares of standing crops. Additionally, 18,067 houses have sustained damages.In an effort to reassure the house and the public, Minister Pujari announced that the state government has already released ₹234.84 crore to fund immediate relief operations and compensatory measures for the affected citizens. The face-off has garnered significant attention from political observers and the media alike. It highlighted a rare instance where lawmakers from the ruling BJP maintained a firm stance on regional accountability, putting aside party lines to demand rigorous oversight on disaster management and public welfare. --- # DEEP DEPRESSION BUMPING INLAND: IMD WANTS CITIZENS ALERT DESPITE EXPECTED WEAKENING AFTER COASTAL LANDFALL Source: https://mediathepower.com/deep-depression-bumping-inland-imd-wants-citizens-alert-despite-expected-weakening-after-coastal-landfall.md **BHUBANESWAR** — Heavy, unrelenting rainfall continues to lash several parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh and southern Odisha as the deep depression over the Bay of Bengal moves further inland. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the intense weather system made landfall between Kalingapatnam in Andhra Pradesh and Gopalpur in Odisha late Wednesday night and is expected to weaken into a regular depression within the next few hours.Despite the projected drop in intensity, meteorologists warn that the threat of severe weather remains high, with torrential downpours and gusty winds set to persist through Friday. **Landfall and Current Position** The IMD confirmed that the deep depression crossed the coast near Srikakulam district's Kalingapatnam between 11:00 PM Wednesday and 1:00 AM Thursday. Moving at a slow pace of roughly 7 kmph in a west-northwestward direction, the system was centered over north coastal Andhra Pradesh and adjoining south Odisha.Weather scientists stated that while the system did not technically cross the threshold to become a full-fledged cyclonic storm (which would have been named Cyclone Arnab), it carried comparable moisture, driving extreme rainfall across the region. **Red Alerts and Rainfall Impact** An absolute deluge has been recorded over the last 24 hours, with Semiliguda in Odisha’s Koraput district recording a massive 230 mm of rainfall. The IMD has sustained a **Red Alert** for several vulnerable districts, warning of isolated, extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 20 cm: - **Odisha:** Koraput, Malkangiri, Kalahandi, Nabarangpur, Gajapati, and Ganjam. - **Andhra Pradesh:** Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Parvathipuram Manyam, and Alluri Sitharama Raju districts. Additionally, an orange watch has been extended to parts of south Chhattisgarh and Telangana as the weather system pushes deeper into central India over the weekend. **Evacuations and Administrative Action** Local administrations have mobilized extensive emergency measures to mitigate the risk of flash floods and waterlogging. - **Evacuations:** Over 5,000 citizens from low-lying areas in Odisha's Gajapati district have already been relocated to safe shelters. - **School Closures:** Educational institutions and Anganwadi centres have been ordered shut across 11 districts in Odisha and 6 districts in northern Andhra Pradesh. - **Deployments:** Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams are currently on standby in vulnerable zones prone to landslides and sudden flooding. - Andhra Pradesh and Odisha Chief Minister conducted a high-level review meeting, instructing district collectors to maintain absolute vigilance, monitor local water reservoirs, and keep essential supplies ready. **Wind and Sea Conditions** Squally wind speeds ranging from 45 to 55 kmph, gusting up to 75 kmph, are heavily impacting the coastal belts. The sea remains rough to very rough, prompting the IMD to issue a strict advisory warning fishermen against venturing into the west-central and northwest Bay of Bengal until conditions normalize. Ferry services, including the popular route between Satapada and Jahnikuda in Chilika Lake, stand suspended. Residents are strongly advised to avoid waterlogged areas, stay clear of weak structures, and follow local administration bulletins closely as the system gradually dissipates over the next 24 to 48 hours. --- # ONGC Strikes Gas Off Eastern Coast; Strategic Proximity to Odisha Sparks Hopes for Fast-Track Development Source: https://mediathepower.com/ongc-strikes-gas-off-eastern-coast-strategic-proximity-to-odisha-sparks-hopes-for-fast-track-development.md **BHUBANESWAR:** State-run energy giant Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has made a significant natural gas discovery in a deepwater block off India’s eastern coast. According to official statements from the state-run explorer, the breakthrough occurred in a deepwater well situated in the Bay of Bengal. The proximity of the discovery to the Odisha coastline is expected to play a critical role in its future production timeline. ONGC noted that this strategic location could allow for significantly faster infrastructure development, provided that subsequent appraisal processes confirm the block's commercial viability. The technical evaluation and appraisal drilling are scheduled to commence shortly to determine the exact size and potential yield of the gas reservoir. If proven commercially viable, this discovery could bolster India's domestic energy production capabilities and support the nation's broader initiative to transition toward a gas-based economy. Local industrial hubs in Odisha stand to benefit substantially from the potential supply chain advantages, given the reduced midstream infrastructure required to transport the gas to the mainland. Further updates are anticipated as ONGC proceeds with its detailed reservoir evaluation. --- # BJD Under Fire for Opposing Key Provisions of MMDR Act; Critics Slam Party for Blocking Mining Sector Reforms Source: https://mediathepower.com/bjd-under-fire-for-opposing-key-provisions-of-mmdr-act-critics-slam-party-for-blocking-mining-sector-reforms.md **JHARSUGUDA:** The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) is facing severe criticism from political opponents and industry experts following its opposition to crucial amendments in the **Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act (MMDR Act)**. Critics allege that the regional party's stance protects the interests of incumbent mining companies at the expense of national revenue, local communities, and the broader development of Odisha’s resource-rich economy. ![](https://mediathepower.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/bimal.jpg) **Bimalendu Bhol** BJP President Jharsuguda state that the Centre's amendments aim to transform the mining sector into a more transparent, auction-based system. Critics view the BJD's opposition as a direct attempt to delay these transparency-enhancing reforms, thereby maintaining the dominance of established leaseholders. ![](https://mediathepower.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/tapan-swain.jpg) **Tapan Swain** BJP president Brajrajnagar claim that the BJD's resistance—coupled with its misleading narrative regarding the potential closure of the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) under this law—slows down the effective utilization of crucial funds. (Note: DMF is a mandatory contribution made from mining profits, distinct from regular corporate social responsibility (CSR) expenditure). Because these funds are vital for the development and rehabilitation of tribal populations and communities affected by mining, critics have labeled the party's policy as "anti-people" and "pro-corporate." ![](https://mediathepower.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/asish.jpg) **Asish tiwari **argue that a proper implementation of the updated MMDR framework could generate significantly higher revenue through competitive bidding. By obstructing these legal changes, the party stands accused of stifling financial growth that could have otherwise funded state-level infrastructure and welfare projects. ![](https://mediathepower.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ashok.jpg) The BJD’s ongoing resistance to the evolving MMDR guidelines shows they are more concerned with maintaining an opaque status quo than embracing fair competition that benefits the common citizens of Odisha," **Ashok Pradhan** added.and he stated To illustrate the situation, I would like to mention that the Vedanta plant in our district's Lakhanpur area is set to commence operations on a coal block. The company has stated that the tax payable in the neighboring state of Chhattisgarh is approximately one-tenth of what is charged in Odisha. Consequently, they have requested a reduction in taxes within Odisha as well, so that production costs can be lowered and finished goods made available to the public at a more affordable price. --- # 65 Years Later: New Mahanadi Gauge Station Set for Shiorinarayan to Fix Critical Flood Data Gap Source: https://mediathepower.com/65-years-later-new-mahanadi-gauge-station-set-for-shiorinarayan-to-fix-critical-flood-data-gap.md Jharsuguda- After a 65-year hiatus, the **Hirakud Dam authorities have issued a tender notice** to establish a new gauge station at **Shiorinarayan in Chhattisgarh**, located in the upper reaches of the Mahanadi River.The initiative follows a recent high-level coordination meeting between the Odisha and Chhattisgarh governments aimed at resolving a decades-long water data gap. The original Shiorinarayan gauge station, established in 1961 to track rainfall and water flow, became entirely non-functional after being submerged by a barrage built upstream by Chhattisgarh. The project will address crucial data gaps that impact flood forecasting for downstream Odisha. - **Estimated Cost:** ₹38.50 lakh. - **New Location:** 200 to 300 metres downstream of the existing Chhattisgarh barrage. - **Deadline:** The application window for the fresh tender closed on the 21st of this month. While the project is moving forward, former Engineer-in-Chief Er. Rabindra Panda cautioned that standard procedures require assessing local flood conditions for two to three years to ensure the new site yields accurate readings. A similar data blackout persists at **Saradihi**, where a second gauge station remains submerged. While bureaucratic delays initially slowed progress, Pratap Chandra Choudhury, Chief Engineer of Hirakud Dam and Manager of the Upper Mahanadi Basin, confirmed that a technical report verifying the suitability of the new Saradih site has finally been received, clearing the path for subsequent data-sharing agreements. --- # BJP Sweeps Rajasthan Municipal Elections, Clinches 197 Heads Across State Source: https://mediathepower.com/bjp-sweeps-rajasthan-municipal-elections-clinches-197-heads-across-state.md **JAIPUR** — The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) achieved a dominant victory in the Rajasthan Municipal (Urban Local Body) Election results declared on September 21, 2026, securing the maximum number of mayoral and chairperson positions across the state.Out of the five major Municipal Corporations that witnessed tight mayoral contests, the **BJP captured four seats**, while the Congress managed to win just one.The overall breakdown of elected heads (Mayors, Chairpersons, and Presidents) across the urban local bodies showcases the BJP's overwhelming majority: The resounding mandate consolidates the BJP's control over the state's urban governance, leaving the opposition Congress a distant second. Meanwhile, smaller political players like the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM), and Rashtriya Loktantrik Party (RLP) managed to open their accounts with one seat each. --- # GUNS & GANGSTERS AT ROURKELA CIRCUIT HOUSE: REVENUE DEPT LAUNCHES HIGH-LEVEL PROBE, TWO TOP OFFICIALS AXED Source: https://mediathepower.com/guns-gangsters-at-rourkela-circuit-house-revenue-dept-launches-high-level-probe-two-top-officials-axed.md **ROURKELA:** The Odisha Revenue Department has launched a high-level investigation following a major security breach at the **Rourkela Circuit House**, where police recently seized illegal firearms and exposed a criminal syndicate hiding out in government-reserved suites for nearly three weeks. In a swift administrative crackdown, the state government has removed **Panposh Sub-Collector Chandrakanta Majhi** and **Nazar Chittaranjan Das** from their positions for lapses in booking oversight. **Sundargarh District Collector Dr. Shubhankar Mohapatra** has been handed immediate interim charge of the facility's operations. "**Absolutely Unacceptable": Revenue Minister Warns of Stern Action** Announcing the decisions during a press briefing in Sundargarh, Revenue Minister **Suresh Pujari** condemned the incident and stated that the government would tolerate no compromises on security. The newly constructed Circuit House has been temporarily closed to the public, and the state plans to float tenders to outsource its management to private entities. "We have ordered a comprehensive inquiry to identify the exact official who authorized this stay," Minister Pujari said. "Strict action will be taken against any staff members who provided direct or indirect assistance. A formal report has been sought to explain how criminals managed to occupy these government rooms for such a prolonged period despite established eligibility rules." The scandal unfolded on the night of **August 14**, when police executed a targeted raid on the Circuit House, recovering **two guns and ammunition** from the rooms. According to investigators, **Prakash Paswan**—a Rourkela Municipal Corporation (RMC) representative associated with Union Minister Jual Oram—had initially booked the accommodation for a standard three-day stay. However, Paswan and his gang illegally extended their occupation, holding two luxury suites for roughly **22 days**. The police have arrested Paswan and **11 of his associates** in connection with the arms seizure and illegal stay, while a manhunt is underway to capture two additional suspects who remain at large. This incident is not the first time the Rourkela Circuit House has faced scrutiny; the unauthorized stay of a web series actress last December had previously sparked intense public controversy over the flouting of official protocols. To permanently eliminate administrative manipulation, Minister Pujari revealed that the state is fast-tracking a shift to a **centralized online booking system** for all government inspection bungalows and circuit houses across Odisha, mirroring the transparent digital models currently used by Odisha Bhawan and Odisha Niwas. --- # Odisha Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari Inaugurates Modern Khaliakani CHC Building in Brajrajnagar Source: https://mediathepower.com/odisha-revenue-minister-suresh-pujari-inaugurates-modern-khaliakani-chc-building-in-brajrajnagar.md **BRAJRAJNAGAR:** In a major boost to the local healthcare infrastructure, the newly constructed building of the Khaliakani Community Health Centre (CHC) was formally inaugurated here in the Jharsuguda district. Shri Suresh Pujari, the Hon'ble Minister of Revenue and Disaster Management, Government of Odisha, attended the event as the chief guest and dedicated the modern health facility to the public. Addressing a large gathering on the occasion, Minister Pujari expressed his immense happiness over the completion of the project, emphasizing that the modern hospital facility would serve as a lifeline for the region. He reiterated that the State Government remains steadfastly committed to providing affordable, accessible, and quality healthcare services directly to local residents. With this newly built facility becoming fully operational, thousands of families residing in Brajrajnagar and its adjoining rural and semi-urban pockets will gain immediate access to advanced medical services. Minister Pujari highlighted that ensuring a healthy and disease-free life for every citizen is the primary objective of the government, affirming that continuous efforts are being made to strengthen health infrastructure to build a healthy and progressive Odisha. --- # DUSU Election Results: ABVP’s Dominance Signals Gen Z’s Continued Mandate for PM Modi and BJP Source: https://mediathepower.com/dusu-election-results-abvps-dominance-signals-gen-zs-continued-mandate-for-pm-modi-and-bjp.md **NEW DELHI:** The results of the Delhi University Students’ Union ([DUSU](https://www.google.com/goto?url=CAES2wEB6zswFYgjZDG9aEWMrvyZ8oFmx2bFhaQAN6KHX-W5KbQk-vQw3GNha9Jf9Zy_Yhq74oCn9mT-jlzNVMcfqFPmDl1z-Ey3eQTIUiDEqpwykyCLALWRxFaOh_c0y9DcDj9yzQ069AEPqBv5_DYxhOHktG1jzyMSCyVC4CrHT6NLZZ8MCa75yZTQq3wGjLJPL9uaDC5KPG0ybvwsmc7o3-8mmcbZDsmzq3H0MEx9fW22fjQJiiboK_S4kxbdWFgjfkjXC-38DVreC5bmv0B__6gJIBiuYoQ6tl1fkN8)) election announced on Saturday have delivered a clear message about Gen Z's political alignment. Defying claims that India's youth are moving away from the ruling party, the **RSS-affiliated Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP)** captured three out of four central panel positions, signaling a strong, continued preference for the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi among the student community. In a tightly contested battle for the presidency, **ABVP’s Yash Dabas** emerged victorious after securing **24,576 votes**. Dabas successfully defeated the Congress-backed National Students' Union of India ([NSUI](https://www.google.com/goto?url=CAESxQEB6zswFRH81lVHpbavA6MDnxA_waNaAb-S825jV3RmNTWiY-3-WTb84O-7-rpMFzlcGn4SP_GTNgLmE-AX3dK5Ka8HdI39T-XWoZ2J7xjGTDPb8U3KXtl2L5V-mDpYwj62rJ5xdhz9PvjkGYmbxHvlsNS37haKWBPcl8ukUw5Ge7f6MBN0nbtiPTvnTRycRRRSGme2xntU4kgTPRzpUnaMwx61S7uGw67WCCVstE9KPPAbS5H0d70NIpNs2eliAdRhFBS1yQ)) candidate, Vijay Shankar Meena, who finished as the runner-up with 22,523 votes. Left Alliance candidate Anaya Raturi finished a distant third with 5,377 votes, followed by ASAP's Ashmit Kumar at 1,388 votes. Other presidential hopefuls Sameer Kumar, Ejaz Mansoori, and Samarth Beniwal secured 1,115, 837, and 819 votes, respectively. The vice-presidential seat witnessed a dramatic victory for **independent candidate Deepanshu Shokeen**, a rebel candidate from the NSUI who ran independently after being denied a party ticket. Shokeen emerged as the highest vote-getter across all four central panel posts, commanding a massive **30,615 votes**. He comfortably outpaced ABVP’s Issu Maurya, who secured 16,910 votes. The official NSUI nominee, Veer Chhatrath, lagged behind significantly with just 4,313 votes, while Left alliance candidates Akshat Shikhar and Aranya Singh Rathore polled 2,383 and 2,274 votes. Further cementing their dominance on campus, **ABVP’s Riya Chhavri** captured the Secretary post with **21,650 votes**, dealing another blow to NSUI's Namrata Chaudhary, who managed 14,869 votes. Left Alliance contender Stanzin Deskyong finished third with 8,734 votes. Complete with the Joint Secretary seat going to ABVP's Lakshya Raj Singh, the final tally leaves the opposition-backed student wings completely out of the core leadership, providing a loud, statistical reminder that Gen Z's mainstream still stands firmly with the BJP's broader national vision. --- # ODISHA GOVT RELEASES REVISED MUNICIPAL ELECTION TIMELINE; DRAFT NOTIFICATION OUT ON SEPT 24 Source: https://mediathepower.com/odisha-govt-releases-revised-municipal-election-timeline-draft-notification-out-on-sept-24.md **BHUBANESWAR** — The Housing and Urban Development Department has officially issued a **revised schedule** for the ward delimitation and seat reservation processes ahead of the upcoming general elections for Municipal Councils, NACs, and Municipal Corporations across Odisha.State authorities have directed concerned District Collectors and Municipal Corporation Commissioners to ensure the smooth completion of the entire process within the newly stipulated timeframes. The standard procedure for the state's Municipal Councils and Notified Area Councils (NACs) will roll out over the next several weeks, culminating at the end of next month: - **September 24:** Publication of the draft notification. - **October 3:** Deadline for citizens to submit objections and suggestions. - **October 7:** Publication of the preliminary notification. - **October 21:** Final date to file formal appeals. - **October 26 – 28:** Hearings and decisions regarding the filed appeals. - **October 31, 2026:** Publication of the definitive final notification concerning ward delimitation and seat reservation. A separate, shifted timeline has been fixed specifically for the major urban hubs of **Bhubaneswar**, **Cuttack**, **Brahmapur**, and **Rourkela**. The process for these major municipal corporations will run slightly later: - **October 5:** Publication of the draft notification regarding proposed ward delimitation and seat reservations. - **October 14:** Deadline for the public to submit objections and suggestions. --- # CAIT Odisha Strongly Opposes Proposed 0.4% MDR on UPI Transactions; Threatens Seven-Day Protest from October 1 Source: https://mediathepower.com/cait-odisha-strongly-opposes-proposed-0-4-mdr-on-upi-transactions-threatens-seven-day-protest-from-october-1.md JHARSUGUDA_ The **Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), Odisha**, has strongly opposed a proposal to impose a **0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) alongside 18% GST** on Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions. The decision was reached during a pan-Odisha trade leaders' emergency meeting held today, **September 18, 2026**, where representatives warned that the move would heavily burden businesses and damage India's digital payment ecosystem.In response, CAIT Odisha has announced a series of escalating democratic actions to pressure the central government for an immediate withdrawal of the proposed charges. **Immediate Appeal:** CAIT Odisha has dispatched an urgent email to the Union Finance Minister, **Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman**, detailing their concerns. **Mass Memorandums:** On **September 23, 2026, at 11:30 AM**, trade leaders across all district headquarters will submit formal memorandums to the Finance Minister through their respective District Collectors and Additional District Magistrates. **Legal Intervention:** The trade body is preparing a formal representation to be placed before the **Supreme Court of India** to voice the grievances of small and medium businesses. **UPI Boycott Threat:** If the government fails to reconsider or offer a satisfactory resolution, traders across Odisha plan to launch a **seven-day protest starting October 1, 2026**, during which they will completely stop accepting UPI payments. Mr. R K Shukla appeal urging all local trade associations, business communities, and digital stakeholders to stay united and actively participate in the scheduled representations. --- --- # ₹2.20 Crore Bounty Maoist Commander Asim Mandal Surrenders to Kolkata STF in Massive Blow to Insurgency Source: https://mediathepower.com/%e2%82%b92-20-crore-bounty-maoist-commander-asim-mandal-surrenders-to-kolkata-stf-in-massive-blow-to-insurgency.md --- NEW DELHI-In a massive blow to the Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) network, Asim Mandal—the only active top-tier Maoist commander from Jharkhand carrying a staggering combined bounty of ₹2.20 crore—surrendered before the Kolkata Police Special Task Force (STF) on Thursday morning. Mandal, who operated under multiple aliases including Akash, Timir, Manoj, Deepak, and Rakesh, was one of the most wanted insurgent leaders in the red corridor [1]. The Jharkhand government had placed a ₹1 crore reward on his head, while the Odisha government had announced a separate bounty of ₹1.20 crore due to his extensive cross-border operations. **The Operation:** The surrender follows a period of highly intensified anti-Maoist campaigns launched by security forces across Jharkhand and neighboring states **Criminal Record:** Mandal faces at least **55 criminal cases** registered across various police stations for high-profile insurgent activities **Area of Influence:** He was a dominant figure in the strategic **Saranda forest area**, a heavily forested zone that has historically served as a crucial operational headquarters and hideout for Maoist cadres **Origin:** Originally a native of Uttara Phulchuk village under the Chandrakona police station limits in **West Medinipur, West Bengal**, Mandal’s surrender marks a major breakdown in the regional leadership hierarchy of the banned outfit Intel sources state that the surrender is a definitive turning point, effectively crippling the remaining leadership structure of the Maoist organization in the Jharkhand-Odisha-Bengal trijunction. --- --- # Pradhan Prays at Maa Samaleswari Temple, Launches Blood Camp and ‘PM Surya Rath’ in Sambalpur Source: https://mediathepower.com/pradhan-prays-at-maa-samaleswari-temple-launches-blood-camp-and-pm-surya-rath-in-sambalpur.md SAMBALPUR: Formar union Minister and Sambalpur MP Dharmendra Pradhan led a series of high-profile events across the city on Thursday to mark the Seva Paksha celebrations celebrating Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday.The Union Minister commenced his visit by offering prayers at Sambalpur’s historic Maa Samaleswari Temple, where he lit lamps and offered special prayers for the long and healthy life of the Prime Minister. Following his temple visit, Pradhan inaugurated a mega blood donation camp organized by the Sambalpur BJP Yuva Morcha as part of the nationwide service initiative, extending his gratitude to the youth volunteers who participated in the drive. Later in the day, Pradhan officially flagged off two ‘PM Surya Rath’ awareness vehicles at the Gangadhar Meher University (GMU) campus. Launched by TP Western Odisha Distribution Limited (TPWODL), these mobile units are scheduled to travel across the region to educate the public on the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. The initiative aims to drive the adoption of rooftop solar energy by highlighting the financial and environmental advantages of the central government’s clean energy flagship scheme.The flag-off ceremony was attended by the Sambalpur District Collector, the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, and senior executives from TPWODL. --- # Odisha CM Mohan Majhi Launches ₹960 Crore Projects, Inaugurates Doppler Radar in Sambalpur Source: https://mediathepower.com/odisha-cm-mohan-majhi-launches-%e2%82%b9960-crore-projects-inaugurates-doppler-radar-in-sambalpur.md Sambalpur- **Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi** undertook a day-long visit to **Sambalpur** on Wednesday, launching **50 developmental projects worth approximately ₹960 crore** and inaugurating a state-of-the-art **Doppler Weather Radar Station** to dramatically enhance regional disaster management capabilities. The radar station, inaugurated at the Gangadhar Meher University auditorium, marks a significant milestone as **India’s 51st Doppler Radar** and the **third in Odisha**. CM Majhi laid the foundation stones and inaugurated 50 infrastructure projects aimed at transforming the socio-economic landscape of Sambalpur district. The high-profile event was attended by: - **Suresh Pujari**, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister - **Manmohan Samal**, Rajya Sabha MP - **Jayanarayan Mishra**, Sambalpur MLA - Senior officials from the **India Meteorological Department (IMD)** - **Dr. Rajendra Singh**, Union Minister of State for Earth Sciences (who joined virtually) The newly installed Doppler Weather Radar is set to become a game-changer for the interior districts of western Odisha, including **Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, Bargarh, and Balangir**. Key capabilities of the new radar station include: - **Early Warnings:** Providing real-time, advance data on fast-evolving weather systems like low-pressure areas, depressions, and cyclonic disturbances. - **Water Management:** Tracking atmospheric conditions over the critical **Hirakud Reservoir** to aid local authorities in flood monitoring and precision water management. - **Interstate Impact:** Beyond Odisha, the facility's extensive range will bolster weather monitoring for adjoining areas in **Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and northern Andhra Pradesh**. This infrastructure addition is expected to significantly minimize the impact of natural disasters by giving administrative bodies the real-time data needed to deploy rapid-response measures. --- # VSS Airport Jharsuguda to Launch ‘Yatri Seva Abhiyan 2026’ Starting September 17 Source: https://mediathepower.com/vss-airport-jharsuguda-to-launch-yatri-seva-abhiyan-2026-starting-september-17.md **JHARSUGUDA:Veer Surendra Sai (VSS) Airport** in Jharsuguda is set to launch the **Yatri Seva Abhiyan 2026** tomorrow, **17 September 2026**. Running until **10 October 2026**, the 24-day campaign aligns with a nationwide initiative by the **Airports Authority of India (AAI)** to significantly boost passenger-centric services across the country.The core objective of the campaign is to elevate the overall travel experience by ensuring seamless, comfortable, accessible, clean, and welcoming airport operations. The airport management has structured the campaign around a series of daily themes and dedicated passenger activities. A major highlight includes the **"Seva & Sankalp"** initiative, which will feature: - Recitations of *Vande Mataram* - Local folk and cultural performances - Enhanced, hands-on passenger assistance programs Airport authorities have emphasized that infrastructure optimization will be a key pillar of the campaign. Special attention is being directed toward maintaining pristine landside areas, streamlining parking and city connectivity, ensuring hassle-free arrivals, and providing adequate, comfortable seating options inside the terminal.Furthermore, under the **"Sugam Yatra"** segment of the drive, VSS Airport will roll out targeted measures to guarantee a smooth, dignified, and accessible journey for **senior citizens, Divyangjan, and Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRMs)**. The initiative marks a concerted effort by AAI Jharsuguda to merge cultural pride with high-standard hospitality, establishing the regional transit hub as a model for passenger satisfaction. --- --- # Families of Loco Pilots Stage Massive Protest at Brajrajnagar Station Over Long Working Hours Source: https://mediathepower.com/families-of-loco-pilots-stage-massive-protest-at-brajrajnagar-station-over-long-working-hours.md **BRAJRAJNAGAR** – Turning Platform No. 1 of the Brajrajnagar Railway Station into a site of active demonstration, the families of railway loco pilots stepped out in full force on Wednesday. Organised by the Brajrajnagar branch of the **All India Loco Running Staff Association (AILRSA)**, the protest saw railway employees standing shoulder-to-shoulder with their spouses, children, and relatives to aggressively voice their grievances against grueling duty schedules and systemic neglect of their well-being. Demonstrators raised high-pitched slogans and marched across the platform displaying placards that highlighted the punishing routines forced upon train drivers. The protestors put forward three critical demands: a significant reduction in continuous working hours, the implementation of mandatory and adequate rest intervals, and ironclad safeguards ensuring the physical and mental health of the loco pilots. Following the demonstration, a high-level delegation led by AILRSA Branch President **Md. Firoz Alam** and Secretary **Jagannath Kumar** met with local railway authorities to submit a formal memorandum detailing their grievances. "Continuous long-duration shifts and unpredictable night duties are pushing our loco pilots to their absolute physical and mental limits," the association leadership stated. They warned that the current working conditions compromise not only the health of the staff but also operational safety. To resolve the crisis, the AILRSA has demanded that the railway administration immediately cap the maximum duration of duty periods, guarantee undisturbed rest cycles, and initiate a prompt recruitment drive to fill the massive volume of vacant posts that are currently driving the staff shortage. Railway officials have received the memorandum, though an official response regarding concrete remedial action is still awaited. --- # DCM Pravati Parida Calls Upon People to Light Lamps in Every Household on September 17 from 6 PM to 7 PM Source: https://mediathepower.com/dcm-pravati-parida-calls-upon-people-to-light-lamps-in-every-household-on-september-17-from-6-pm-to-7-pm.md **Bhubaneswar**- Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Smt. Pravati Parida today appealed to the people of the state to **light lamps in every household on 17 September from 6 PM to 7 PM**. The unique initiative marks the **successful completion of two years of the state government’s flagship SUBHADRA Scheme**. Speaking at a press conference at the Lok Seva Bhawan, Parida—who also heads the Departments of Women & Child Development, Mission Shakti, and Tourism—urged citizens to observe the day as a celebration of women’s empowerment, dignity, and self-reliance. Highlighting the landmark achievements of the initiative over the past two years, the Deputy Chief Minister revealed that the government has successfully transferred **₹25,800 crore directly into the bank accounts of over 1.03 crore women beneficiaries** across five instalments. The economic impact of the scheme has been highly significant. Joint assessments by IIM Sambalpur, the State Bank of India (SBI), and NITI Aayog reveal that **more than 26% of women in Odisha have transitioned into self-reliant entrepreneurs** because of the financial backing provided by the SUBHADRA Scheme. To commemorate this milestone, the state has lined up extensive grassroot celebrations: - **Cultural Events**: Rangoli competitions and special celebrations will take place across all Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) projects, Anganwadi Centres, and Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) offices statewide. - **A Vision for Health**: Parida reiterated the Department of Women & Child Development's unwavering commitment to achieving a 100% malnutrition-free Odisha through the ongoing Poshan Abhiyan, aiming to build a "Nourished and Developed Odisha." The Deputy Chief Minister concluded her address by calling upon every citizen to participate in the lamp-lighting hour tomorrow evening, turning the state's collective celebration into a powerful symbol of respect for Nari Shakti --- # Fire Outbreak at MKCG Medical College and Hospital Causes Panic; No Casualties Reported Source: https://mediathepower.com/fire-outbreak-at-mkcg-medical-college-and-hospital-causes-panic-no-casualties-reported.md **ODISHA** — A major scare gripped the [MKCG Medical College and Hospital](https://www.google.com/goto?url=CAEStAEB6zswFWvukFWaQn7IrG5Qe0-_Npu9_hjlqjg3ix17Nb6XD2yW8d4ynux5j-4ZgEBswXBiyW9LQRZwiTKkrj9JCrXdIRkDdufz4JHHfFy3CKGIpHC99RJjNZgoWwv41WIK9jk7t3yVmhRsFUo2iPNjhF4KfQBbv2aB2HaAnPmG5z46ieCE3ei76sMFfOecRlTsjVG_FVAXN94aBOtQCRMKxsHsbHjtiA7ja0ytmAm5lXPdBrA) on Tuesday after **a fire broke out on the second floor** of the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department. The blaze, which erupted inside the department's operation theatre (OT) complex, caused **extensive damage to expensive medical equipment** and hospital materials. According to preliminary reports, the fire originated from an old air conditioning unit installed inside the anesthetist room of the OT complex. Hospital staff noticed thick smoke emanating from the room, triggering immediate panic among patients and attendants as it began filling up the department floor. A **suspected technical short circuit** is believed to have triggered the mishap. Fortunately, no patients were inside the anesthetist room when the flames appeared. Hospital security guards and staff acted swiftly to evacuate patients from nearby wards to safer locations.Upon receiving the emergency call, teams from the **Odisha Fire Services** rushed to the campus. Firefighters managed to bring the blaze completely under control within a short time, preventing it from spreading to adjacent medical units. Hospital authorities have confirmed that **no patients, medical staff, or individuals were injured** in the incident. While the air conditioning unit was completely destroyed and multiple surgical tools sustained critical damage, the structural impact remained contained.Senior administrative officials and medical authorities arrived at the spot to take stock of the situation. A detailed probe has been initiated. --- # Western Odisha Unites in Gratitude as Millions Celebrate Nuakhai, Offer ‘Nabanna’ to Maa Samaleswari Source: https://mediathepower.com/western-odisha-unites-in-gratitude-as-millions-celebrate-nuakhai-offer-nabanna-to-maa-samaleswari.md Jharsuguda- Western Odisha came alive with vibrant celebrations today as the region marked Nuakhai, its most important agricultural festival, offering the season's first harvest to the reigning deity, Maa Samaleswari, while celebrating renewed social bonds.The annual festival, which takes place on the Panchami tithi (fifth day) of the lunar fortnight in the month of Bhadrapada, saw millions of families across districts like Sambalpur, Bargarh, Bolangir, and Jharsuguda gather together in a grand display of cultural heritage. The core ritual began in the morning with the offering of Nabanna the newly harvested rice crop cooked with milk and sugar to Maa Samaleswari at her historic temple in Sambalpur. Following the central offering, households across the region offered the new crop to their respective presiding deities and family gods. Following the rituals, the region transitioned into the highly anticipated *Nuakhai Juhar*. A cornerstone of the festival, this tradition involves younger family and community members seeking the blessings of their elders. - **Strengthening relationships:** The custom serves to mend broken ties, forgive past differences, and renew community solidarity. - **Traditional attire:** Locals donned traditional Sambalpuri handloom attire, turning towns and villages into a sea of colorful, intricate patterns. - **Festive feasts:** Families gathered to consume the blessed *Nabanna* together, accompanied by traditional delicacies like *Manda Pitha*. As the day progressed, the festive energy moved to community grounds. The air resonated with the beats of traditional instruments like the *Dhol*, *Nishan*, and *Tasa*, accompanying energetic folk dances including *Sambalpuri*, *Dalkhai*, and *Rasarkeli*. Leaders, dignitaries, and people from all walks of life extended their warm greetings, highlighting Nuakhai as a beautiful symbol of gratitude towards nature and the tireless efforts of the farming community. --- # Massive Fire Guts Ganesh Puja Pandal in Odisha’s Sambalpur; No Casualties Reported Source: https://mediathepower.com/massive-fire-guts-ganesh-puja-pandal-in-odishas-sambalpur-no-casualties-reported.md **SAMBALPUR** — A major fire completely destroyed a prominent **Ganesh Puja pandal** in the **Deheripali area of Sambalpur city** on Monday evening. The incident, which triggered widespread panic among locals, occurred at approximately **8:20 PM** at the marquee organised by the Deheripali Puja Committee, falling under the jurisdiction of the Ainthapali Police Station The fire broke out shortly after the conclusion of the main evening prayers and *darshan*. Highly inflammable decorative materials, including extensive cloth and plastic structures, caused the flames to spread rapidly across the marquee. Alert committee members and local residents initially attempted to contain the blaze. Fire tenders were rushed to the scene immediately after being notified, successfully bringing the raging flames under control within an hour. Fire Officer confirmed that **no injuries or fatalities** were reported, as most devotees had already left the venue. While the entire decorative structure and puja materials were reduced to ashes, reports indicate the main deity idol miraculously remained unharmed The police have launched a formal inquiry into the exact cause of the accident. The investigation will also evaluate whether the venue complied with standard fire safety protocols and possessed adequate firefighting equipment. --- # BJP Sweeps Rajasthan Local Body Elections 2026; PM Modi Hails Victory, Slams Congress’s ‘Jhooth Ki Goonj’ Source: https://mediathepower.com/bjp-sweeps-rajasthan-local-body-elections-2026-pm-modi-hails-victory-slams-congresss-jhooth-ki-goonj.md --- **Rajasthan**- **The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has secured a decisive victory in the 2026 Rajasthan Local Body Elections**, prompting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to hail the results as a triumph of development over misinformation. Following the announcement of the election outcomes, PM Modi took a sharp swipe at the opposition Congress party, stating that the echo of their lies (**"Jhooth Ki Goonj"**) had been thoroughly silenced by the mandates of the local voters. PM Modi commended the voters of Rajasthan for choosing the BJP’s vision of rapid infrastructure development, welfare schemes, and grass-roots governance.In his victory address, the Prime Minister targetted the Congress party's campaign tactics, asserting that the public has rejected "hollow promises and false narratives" in favour of proven performance.The electoral sweep solidifies the ruling BJP's structural hold over urban and rural local bodies across Rajasthan, providing a strong mandate for upcoming state-level initiatives. Party-Wise Final Standing The overall seat distribution highlights the BJP leading by a margin of 566 wards over Congress: | Party | Wards Won | Share (%) | | ----- | --------- | --------- | | **BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party)** | **4,179** | **40.8%** | | **INC (Indian National Congress)** | **3,613** | **35.3%** | | **Independents** | **2,273** | **22.2%** | | **Others (AAP, RLP, CPI(M), BSP, BAP)** | **179** | **1.7%** | **BJP Dominates Major Corporations:** The BJP captured clear majorities in **4 out of 10 major municipal corporations**, securing convincing wins in major hubs including [The Hindu](https://www.google.com/goto?url=CAES2QEB6zswFbqVY_26NeaNrqPlz7E6ABYIHxYRJa9cct5TeIvGZotyW9D0pEzk0qn6hposLurvmXDYPJ0YUcrC_-GEDA_t7zwBEm0MitfgCZPTuxfePGZdA6WBD6JxV4S9LPvxRJeGiUatI3_-ckCIQ3vMPSr-UAHfkUgwd0PePmg5w7rrf-jDZlAE-tFgXb0HwRWZdVkmcTBiFqz_weGy7hy7xe4FrkIv772jbF-g81FKfLZSYhMqIio_uJD67zi8FnEPWymXFCDa2fKDjcBoqrXnl95bZna_3vL6): - **Jaipur**: BJP swept the capital corporation with 78 wards against Congress's 53. - **Udaipur**: BJP secured 53 out of 80 seats. - **Kota**: BJP won a majority with 53 out of 100 seats. - **Bhilwara**: BJP won 45 out of 70 seats. While losing ground globally, Congress retained key strongholds like **Bikaner Municipal Corporation** and **Sikar** (Govind Singh Dotasra's base, 38/65 wards). It also managed a major upset in **Jhalawar** (Vasundhara Raje's traditional bastion), winning 29 out of 45 seats. Independents weaponized local dissatisfaction to completely sweep CM Bhajanlal Sharma's hometown of **Bharatpur**, grabbing 36 of 65 seats. Meanwhile, the **Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)** registered a historic standalone win by sweeping the **Baran Nagar Parishad** with 31 out of 60 seats. Official elections for the positions of Mayors and Chairpersons will follow on **September 21, 2026**. --- # PM Modi’s Diplomacy Resounds Globally: Shahnawaz Hussain at Jharsuguda Source: https://mediathepower.com/pm-modis-diplomacy-resounds-globally-shahnawaz-hussain-at-jharsuguda.md **JHARSUGUDA:** Sambalpur MP **Dharmendra Pradhan** and senior BJP National Spokesperson **Shahnawaz Hussain** arrived at the Veer Surendra Sai Airport in Jharsuguda to a grand, bustling reception hosted by local Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers and regional leaders.The visiting dignitaries were met with immediate enthusiasm at the airport terminal. Hundreds of local party members and workers extended a warm welcome, greeting the leaders with bouquets, traditional scarves, and loud, passionate sloganeering. Following a brief interaction with the local party base at the terminal, both leaders departed by road for **Sambalpur** to attend pre-scheduled organizational and party programs. Speaking to media and party members during his brief stop at the airport, BJP National Spokesperson Shahnawaz Hussain lauded India’s geopolitical positioning, pointing directly to the successfully managed **New Delhi BRICS Summit** --- "Prime Minister Narendra Modi has achieved a major accomplishment by holding the BRICS Summit here. Today, the BRICS Summit is being discussed not only within the country but across the globe. The way India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi steered the event has earned him worldwide acclaim, and people everywhere are acknowledging his mettle." He added that India's rising international profile has successfully brought major global superpowers to the same table, establishing the country as a pivotal balancing force in modern global politics **Worldwide Acclaim:** Hussain emphasized that PM Modi’s diplomatic leadership during the high-stakes summit has secured validation and respect from international leaders and observers alike. **Grand Local Reception:** The arrival of MP Dharmendra Pradhan and Hussain triggered massive local support at Jharsuguda, reinforcing the party's strong on-ground organizational presence heading into the Sambalpur events. **Strategic Momentum:** The leaders moved forward swiftly to Sambalpur to address and strengthen local organizational frameworks, building upon the national narrative of India's foreign policy victories and for **Seva Sankalp Abhiyan** is a nationwide, month-long outreach campaign launched to celebrate 25 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. --- # Tragedy Strikes Ahead of Nuakhai: 2-Year-Old Killed, Parents Critically Injured in Sambalpur Road Crash Source: https://mediathepower.com/tragedy-strikes-ahead-of-nuakhai-2-year-old-killed-parents-critically-injured-in-sambalpur-road-crash.md Jharsuguda- **A tragic road accident claimed the life of a two-year-old child and left his parents critically injured** after a speeding, coal-laden truck rammed into their motorcycle at **Khinda Chhak under Thelkoloi police station limits in Sambalpur district** on Sunday. The family was travelling from **Sambalpur to their hometown in Jharsuguda** to celebrate the auspicious festival of **Nuakhai** when the lethal collision occurred. The impact of the crash killed the toddler on the spot, while his mother and father sustained severe, life-threatening injuries. Both parents were rushed to a nearby hospital, where they are currently undergoing emergency medical treatment. Following the incident, **incensed locals blocked the busy Sambalpur-Jharsuguda route**, completely halting traffic and demanding immediate measures to curb reckless driving by heavy vehicles. Personnel from the **Thelkoloi police station** rushed to the scene to pacify the protestors, clear the highway, and launch a formal investigation into the exact circumstances surrounding the crash. --- # Political Earthquake in Germany: Far-Right AfD Sweeps Saxony-Anhalt with Fictional 43.8% Landslide Source: https://mediathepower.com/political-earthquake-in-germany-far-right-afd-sweeps-saxony-anhalt-with-fictional-43-8-landslide.md The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has secured a historic landslide victory in the eastern state of Saxony-Anhalt, triggering a political earthquake that has shattered Germany's traditional political landscape. According to preliminary final results from the September 6, 2026 election, the AfD won a record-breaking 43.8% of the vote, more than doubling its previous performance in the region. The surge delivered a crushing blow to Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU), which collapsed to a historic low of 17.2%. Despite the unprecedented win, the AfD fell just three seats short of an absolute majority, securing 39 out of 83 seats in the state parliament. Lead candidate Ulrich Siegmund declared that the party had won a clear "mandate to govern," marking the strongest performance by a far-right party in a German state legislature since World War II. Because mainstream political parties maintain a strict "firewall" refusing to form coalitions with the far right, coalition building will be exceptionally difficult. If centrist parties refuse to negotiate, the state faces severe gridlock or a potential minority government scenario. Reports from Reuters and the BBC indicate that while this regional vote does not change the national government, it heaps immense pressure on Chancellor Merz ahead of upcoming elections in other states. Analysis broadcasted by Deutsche Welle highlights deep anxiety among local minorities and businesses over the AfD's hardline anti-immigration stance. --- # Political Rivalry or Enmity? Panchayat Samiti Member Shot Dead in Bargarh; Bullet-Riddled Body Found in Car Source: https://mediathepower.com/political-rivalry-or-enmity-panchayat-samiti-member-shot-dead-in-bargarh-bullet-riddled-body-found-in-car.md **BARGARH:** A wave of panic and sensation has gripped the region following the brutal murder of **Achyuta Nayak**, an elected Panchayat Samiti member from Agalpur under the Barpali Block of Bargarh district. His **bullet-riddled, blood-stained body** was recovered by the police from the driver’s seat of his car on Friday morning.The incident, which took place late Thursday night along the Chinajori canal road under Dunguripali Block in the neighbouring Subarnapur district, has sent shockwaves across Agalpur, Barpali, and Dunguripali areas. According to family members, Nayak, a resident of Kebada village, had left his home on Thursday night in his car for some personal work. He was reportedly travelling via the canal road towards Dunguripali Block.The matter came to light on Friday morning when locals spotted the vehicle parked suspiciously along the Chinajori canal road. Upon closer inspection, Nayak was found slumped in the driver's seat with multiple visible bullet wounds across his body. Given the gravity of the high-profile murder, a massive police mobilization was triggered. Police teams from both Dunguripali and Barpali rushed to the spot to secure the crime scene. Reflecting the sensitivity of the case, the **Superintendents of Police (SPs) of both Subarnapur and Bargarh districts** personally visited the site to supervise the initial rounds of investigation. Forensic teams and police experts are currently combing the area for critical clues. "We have launched a comprehensive investigation. The police are prioritizing physical and circumstantial evidence gathered from the spot to solve the mystery. We are looking into all possible angles, including personal enmity, business disputes, and political rivalry," a senior police official stated. --- # BRICS 2026: New Delhi Declaration Adopted Amid Major Diplomatic Push and Calls for Global Reform Source: https://mediathepower.com/brics-2026-new-delhi-declaration-adopted-amid-major-diplomatic-push-and-calls-for-global-reform.md New Delhi-The 18th annual BRICS Summit concluded in New Delhi today, September 13, 2026, with the unanimous adoption of the landmark New Delhi Declaration. Hosted by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Bharat Mandapam, the high-profile, two-day event brought together global heavyweight leaders including Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian amid a backdrop of escalating geopolitical tensions and shifting international alliances. The summit signaled a massive diplomatic win for India, which successfully steered the expanded economic bloc to overcome deep internal divisions and build a unified consensus on global security, trade, and multilateral reforms. Under the official 2026 theme, “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability,” the member states adopted a sweeping framework focused on rearranging the global balance of power. Global Governance Reforms: In a powerful closing address, Prime Minister Modi asserted that a rapidly changing world "cannot be steered by outdated institutions," demanding urgent structural overhauls at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and global financial bodies. Notably, the joint declaration explicitly backed India and Brazil's bids for permanent seats on the UNSC. Stance on Terrorism & Conflicts: The bloc collectively backed India by strongly condemning the April 2025 terror attacks in Pahalgam (Jammu and Kashmir), advocating a strict "zero tolerance" approach toward terrorism. Furthermore, the declaration underscored the critical need for conflict prevention, dialogue, and diplomacy regarding active global wars. Middle East Crisis: The member nations urged absolute "restraint" in the Middle East and expressed firm opposition to the forced displacement of Palestinians. Empowering the Global South: The leaders stressed the imperative of giving developing nations an equal voice in shaping international technology standards, cross-border payment mechanisms, and decision-making frameworks. With the family photos and final bilateral meetings wrapping up, India successfully concludes its fourth chairship of the bloc, leaving BRICS significantly more unified in its bid to build a truly multipolar world order. --- # Jharsuguda National Lok Adalat Settles Over 4,000 Cases; Over ₹5.36 Crore Awarded Source: https://mediathepower.com/jharsuguda-national-lok-adalat-settles-over-4000-cases-over-%e2%82%b95-36-crore-awarded.md **JHARSUGUDA:** Following the directives of the **National Legal Services Authority (NALSA)** and the **Odisha State Legal Services Authority (OSLSA), Cuttack**, the third **National Lok Adalat** of the year was successfully conducted on Saturday at the **Jharsuguda District Court** and **Lakhanpur Court** premises. The mega event was presided over by **Mr. Prashant Kumar Nayak**, District & Sessions Judge and Chairman of the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA).The Lok Adalat achieved massive success, resolving **4,121 cases** across pending and pre-litigation categories through mutual and amicable settlements. A total of 13 separate Lok Adalat benches were constituted to process the long-pending litigations. Key settlements included: - **Civil Cases:** 14 disputes were resolved for a whopping **₹3,59,40,327.08**. - **Motor Accident Claims (MACT):** 8 cases were settled, with insurance companies ordered to pay **₹53,50,000** in compensation. - **Labour Disputes:** 3 cases were settled for **₹37,30,767**. - **Cheque Bounce Cases:** 16 cases under Section 138 of the NI Act were closed for **₹10,33,461**. - **Revenue Cases:** A massive **3,194 revenue cases** were cleared, drawing a settlement of **₹3,24,810**. **Criminal & Miscellaneous Matters:** 607 petty criminal cases, 9 compoundable criminal cases, 1 money recovery case, and 1 matrimonial/family dispute (excluding divorce) were successfully resolved. The benches also provided quick relief in pre-litigation matters, avoiding lengthy future trials: - **Bank Loans:** 90 loan-related cases settled for **₹48,48,456**. - **Electricity Bills:** 138 Tata Power disputes resolved for **₹12,64,495**. - **Public Utilities:** 16 cases before the Permanent Lok Adalat for Public Utility Services fetched **₹11,34,337**. - **Traffic & Others:** 20 traffic challans (**₹65,500**), 2 BSNL telephone bill cases (**₹2,124**), and 1 miscellaneous civil case were cleared. The administrative operations were seamless, overseen by Chief Judicial Magistrate DLSA Secretary and Civil Court Registrar and others actively assisted the benches in ensuring swift legal relief to citizens. --- --- # Festive Security, Arms Smuggling, and Orangutan Probe: Odisha DGP Outlines Mega Policing Blueprint Source: https://mediathepower.com/festive-security-arms-smuggling-and-orangutan-probe-odisha-dgp-outlines-mega-policing-blueprint.md Odisha- **Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) Vinaytosh Mishra** on Saturday chaired a high-level review meeting to assess the state's security preparedness for the upcoming three-month festive sprint. The comprehensive blueprint focuses on maintaining absolute law and order, sealing borders, tightening illegal arms loops, and advancing complex transnational wildlife investigations. With a series of major public festivals on the horizon—spanning **Ganesh Puja**, **Nuakhai**, **Dussehra**, and **Kali Puja**—the state is bracing for massive community participation. o ensure peaceful celebrations, the DGP announced a collaborative strategy that Police units will work in tandem with local festival committees and volunteers to manage heavy foot traffic along with special operations and border sealing will be initiated in sensitive border zones to prevent external disruptions and Police is establishing real-time intelligence-sharing mechanisms with the police forces of neighbouring states. Addressing the highly publicised **investigation into the illegal movement of orangutans** into Odisha, DGP Mishra termed the case "highly complex." Preliminary findings suggest the exotic animals were smuggled from outside India using multiple international transit routes.The investigation is multi-layered and will take time to conclude, but we are pursuing every lead meticulously," Mishra stated. On the anti-crime front, the DGP revealed that the police have registered **54 cases related to illegal arms seizures**. Operations are being conducted in close coordination with the Jharkhand and West Bengal Police to choking the illegal flow of firearms, which the DGP highlighted as a critical step to preemptively lowering violent crime rates across the state. DGP Mishra concluded the briefing by addressing recent media speculation surrounding ongoing Crime Branch investigations. He explicitly clarified that **questioning individuals during a standard investigation must not be misconstrued as a formal detention or arrest**. To combat misinformation, the DGP stated that his office will issue written press notes whenever a significant breakthrough occurs, urging media outlets to strictly verify facts and refrain from publishing unverified leaks. --- # JHARSUGUDA YOUTH SECURE GLOBAL TECH JOBS THROUGH VEDANTA’S ‘VEDAKSHATA’ INITIATIVE Source: https://mediathepower.com/jharsuguda-youth-secure-global-tech-jobs-through-vedantas-vedakshata-initiative.md **JHARSUGUDA** — **Thirty youths from Jharsuguda** have secured employment with leading global electronics manufacturing giants, including **Tata Electronics, Foxconn, and Dixon Technologies**, after completing training under Vedanta Aluminium’s flagship skill development program, **‘Vedakshata’**. The latest batch of graduates, trained as mobile hardware repair technicians, represents the growing impact of the initiative. Launched in 2025, 'Vedakshata' aims to bridge the employability gap for youth in the communities surrounding Vedanta's operations in Jharsuguda. **Gender-Based Placements:** Female trainees from the latest batch secured roles at Tata Electronics and Foxconn in Bengaluru, while male trainees were hired by Dixon Technologies in Chennai. **Rapid Scale:** The project has trained more than 120 youths since its inception. Earlier this year, 60 individuals received training in mobile repair and food & beverage services, followed by another 30 participants completing the hospitality module. **Industry Alignment:** The curriculum equips local youth with technical expertise, practical learning, workplace readiness, and dedicated placement support to enter India's fast-growing electronics manufacturing ecosystem. > "The true value of skill development lies in creating clear livelihood opportunities. Through ‘Vedakshata’, we are building a robust system to connect the youth of Jharsuguda with industry-aligned skills and reliable employment opportunities." > — **C. Chandru**, CEO, Vedanta Aluminium, Jharsuguda rainees received their official job offer letters and course completion certificates during a valedictory ceremony at the 'Vedakshata' center in Jharsuguda, attended by senior company representatives."This training has helped me acquire practical technical skills and understand what is expected in a professional workplace," said **Jayashree Naik**, a trainee from the Jamera area. "Securing employment right after the training has given me the confidence to launch my career and support my family." The 'Vedakshata' program is part of Vedanta Aluminium's larger corporate social responsibility footprint in the region. The company’s community development programs in education, healthcare, livelihoods, and sports have reached over** many people** in the Jharsuguda district. Furthermore, its women empowerment initiatives support more than **5,300 women** through 500 self-help groups and cooperatives. --- # ₹10 Per Student Bribe: Two ST & SC Department Auditors Caught with ₹14.38 Lakh Cash in Odisha Source: https://mediathepower.com/%e2%82%b910-per-student-bribe-two-st-sc-department-auditors-caught-with-%e2%82%b914-38-lakh-cash-in-odisha.md ODISHA- **Two state government auditors have been detained** by the Odisha Vigilance department in Baripada after being caught with **₹14.38 lakh in unaccounted cash**, officials confirmed on Friday [Sept 11, 2026]. The auditors, belonging to the state’s ST and SC Development Department, allegedly collected the money as bribes from local school authorities by demanding a fixed cut of **₹10 per enrolled student** to clear their audits Acting on a tip-off, Vigilance sleuths intercepted the auditors late on Thursday night (September 10) while they were returning from the District Welfare Officer (DWO) office to their transit accommodation at the Mahapatra Hotel. The operation unfolded in two phases: - **Vehicle Search:** Officials intercepted the auditors inside a government-issued Mahindra Scorpio and recovered **₹5,51,510** stashed in 52 envelopes and 20 loose bundles. - **Hotel Room Raid:** A subsequent search of their room at the Mahapatra Hotel in Roxy Lane yielded an additional **₹8,86,830** in cash. - The official failed to provide any satisfactory explanation or legitimate source for the total accumulated cash of **₹14,38,340**, leading to its immediate seizure. The duo had been stationed in Baripada since August 30 to conduct a comprehensive audit of the DWO office and its affiliate institutions—including Ashram schools, Sevashram schools, high schools, higher secondary schools, and SSD hostels. According to Vigilance sources, the auditors had ordered headmasters and hostel wardens to report to Baripada with their official registers and files. Intelligence units verified complaints that the auditors were systematically demanding a bribe of ₹10 per student from the school heads to facilitate and clear the audit process. The two auditors are currently undergoing intensive custodial interrogation to trace the exact origin of the funds and identify any co-conspirators. Simultaneously, the Vigilance department has launched coordinated raids at multiple properties and locations linked to both individuals to investigate a potential **disproportionate assets (DA)** angle. Further legal action and formal arrests are expected. --- # Jharsuguda DIPRO Uses Traditional ‘Pala’ Folk Art to Battle Witch-Hunting and Superstition in Purna Village Source: https://mediathepower.com/jharsuguda-dipro-uses-traditional-pala-folk-art-to-battle-witch-hunting-and-superstition-in-purna-village.md harsuguda-he District Information and Public Relations Department (DIPRO) of Jharsuguda organized an awareness campaign on September 11, 2026, to combat superstition, witch-hunting, and other social evils. The event took place at the Jagannath Temple premises in Purna village, located under the Dalki Gram Panchayat. To effectively reach the rural community, the department utilized 'Pala', a traditional Odia folk art form. Smt. Tanaya Kusum and her troupe led the outreach, delivering a powerful performance that highlighted the dangers of deep-rooted superstitions and harmful village practices. Ms. Ritakanti Baliyarsingh (DIPRO) Delivered the welcome address and detailed the core objectives of the campaign, emphasizing the need to eradicate modern-day social evils. Local frontline workers, including Community Resource Persons (CRPs), Anganwadi workers, Self-Help Group (SHG) members, and the Krushi Mitra. The collaborative event successfully leveraged cultural heritage to foster a rational, scientific temperament and promote safety and unity within the village. --- # Chief Engineer Demands Records From Burla Division Over Vedanta Aluminium’s Water Drawal Source: https://mediathepower.com/chief-engineer-demands-records-from-burla-division-over-vedanta-aluminiums-water-drawal.md JHARSUGUDA- The Odisha Water Resources Department has launched an investigation into allegations of illegal water extraction by M/s Vedanta Aluminium Ltd. from the Bheden River in Jharsuguda district.The Chief Engineer of Water Services issued an urgent directive to the Superintending Engineer of the Burla Irrigation Division following a high-level complaint. The probe was triggered by an internal vigilance report dated August 25, 2026, alongside a formal complaint lodged by Satyanarayan Rao, President of the local advocacy group Anchalik Paribesh Surakhya Sangh. State authorities have demanded a comprehensive, point-by-point compliance report regarding Vedanta’s water consumption history and tax collections since the plant's inception. The investigation focuses on several critical areas: - **Construction Phase Consumption:** Authorities are demanding exact records and demand notices for the total volume of water drawn during the plant's initial construction period. - **Temporary Agreements & Missing Online Data:** The department is investigating temporary water drawal agreements (Form-J). They are questioning why specific data entries were missing from the Integrated Water Compliance, Revenue and Management (IWCRCM) online portal. **Pipeline and Reservoir Allocation:** Investigators are tracking the exact timeline of the pipeline laid from the Hirakud Reservoir and have requested the company's approved water drawal scheme. **Alternative Water Sources:** The probe requires a full disclosure of all alternative water sources utilized by the plant, completely excluding its official Hirakud Reservoir allocation. **Environmental Compliance:** The state has requested copies of all State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) 'Consent to Operate' (CTO) orders regarding sewage disposal from day one to the present. Local community leaders have long raised environmental concerns regarding industrial water consumption impacting regional river basins. The Burla Irrigation Division has been ordered to immediately produce all historical agreements, financial collection records, and environmental clearances to determine if legal or financial penalties are warranted. --- # Godrej Aerospace delivers first serial production Kaveri Dry Engine (D1) to DRDO, marking a massive milestone for India’s defense sector Source: https://mediathepower.com/godrej-aerospace-delivers-first-serial-production-kaveri-dry-engine-d1-to-drdo-marking-a-massive-milestone-for-indias-defense-sector.md BENGALURU- In a monumental boost to India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, Godrej Aerospace has officially handed over the first serial production unit of the indigenous Kaveri Derivative Engine (designated D1) to the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), a premier laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The delivery transitions the long-evolving Kaveri engine program from an experimental prototype phase into active, production-grade defense manufacturing. Designed specifically as a non-afterburning "dry" engine variant, the powerhouse generates 48–51 kN of thrust. It is slated to power India's highly anticipated Ghatak Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) program and other autonomous defense platforms. With the ongoing delays and steep price hikes in international supply chains, the successful handoff of the D1 engine offers DRDO a clear path toward complete technological ownership. The current 50 kN dry design lays a solid foundation, which GTRE engineers intend to scale into full afterburning variants capable of 75 kN to 90 kN of thrust for future combat fleets and it will power Ghatak UCAV's. The D-series production units will now enter extensive, final certification and endurance trials at GTRE to clear the engine for upcoming real-world flight deployments. --- # Major Rail Boost for Jharsuguda: Central Government Greenlights Massive Multi-Tracking Project Source: https://mediathepower.com/major-rail-boost-for-jharsuguda-central-government-greenlights-massive-multi-tracking-project.md JHARSUGUDA: In a major boost to regional connectivity and industrial logistics, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved three multi-tracking railway projects with a combined** investment of ₹10,783 crore**.Central to this mega infrastructure push is the approval of the 367-kilometer Kharagpur-Jharsuguda (Bagdehi) fourth railway line, a project valued at approximately **₹6,528 crore**. According to official government statements, the expansion is projected to yield massive socio-economic and logistical dividends: - **Capacity Enhancement:** The projects will add an extra freight transportation capacity of approximately 27 Million Tonnes Per Annum (MTPA). - **Employment Generation:** The construction phase is expected to generate 125 lakh man-days of employment. - **Cost Efficiency:** The streamlined infrastructure will result in annual transportation cost savings exceeding ₹967 crore. - **Rural Outreach:** Improved connectivity will directly benefit roughly 4,790 villages and a population of over 56 lakh people. Welcoming the decision, **Bargarh MP Pradip Purohit** expressed deep gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. Purohit highlighted that the strategic move would drastically strengthen the region's rail infrastructure, stimulate local trade, and contribute to environmental sustainability by moving more freight from roads to eco-friendly rail corridors. The project aligns with the government’s long-term vision to foster aggressive industrial growth, boost regional employment, and optimize heavy-haul freight corridors across eastern India. --- # Odisha’s Biswajit Sarangi to Represent India at Prestigious Global Youth Summit in Moscow Source: https://mediathepower.com/odishas-biswajit-sarangi-to-represent-india-at-prestigious-global-youth-summit-in-moscow.md JHARSUGUDA: In a stellar achievement that brings immense pride to both the state and the country, youth leader Biswajit Sarangi has been officially selected to represent India at the prestigious 'International Festival of Youth-2026' in Moscow, Russia.Hailing from the Bandhbahal area of the Jharsuguda district, Sarangi emerged successful after a rigorous, highly competitive global selection process. He has received an official invitation letter signed by Dmitry Ivanov, the Director General of the World Youth Festival Directorate.The mega global summit is scheduled to take place from September 11 to September 17, 2026. The premier international conference is designed to foster global cooperation and dialogue. It will bring together an elite cohort of young professionals, administrators, and emerging leaders from across the globe, representing diverse sectors including:Science and EducationInformation Technology (IT)Media and JournalismEntrepreneurship and BusinessArts and Culture. Sarangi's participation offers a significant opportunity to deliberate on critical global issues, pitch impactful ideas, and represent the voice of Indian youth on an international stage. Following the announcement, congratulatory messages and best wishes have been pouring in for the young leader from leaders, peers, and well-wishers across various quarters. --- # Infrastructure at Risk? RDC Slams Slow Progress as 6,478 Acres of Land Remain Locked in Legal Backlog Source: https://mediathepower.com/infrastructure-at-risk-rdc-slams-slow-progress-as-6478-acres-of-land-remain-locked-in-legal-backlog.md JHARSUGUDA: Uttaranchal Revenue Divisional Commissioner (RDC) Natshav Keshari Mohapatra has expressed strong dissatisfaction over a severe slowdown in deciding unsettled land cases across the division. According to a quarterly review ending June 30, 2026, a total of 998 unsettled land cases remain pending in Uttaranchal, leaving the future of 6,478.049 acres of land hanging in the balance. The stagnation has raised alarms within the Revenue Department, especially at a time when the state is drafting extensive infrastructure development plans backed by thousands of crores of rupees. The review highlights a stark disparity in case disposals, with hundreds of cases piling up in a few specific districts:Kendujhar (Keonjhar): Highest backlog with 313 pending cases involving 494.31 acres of land.Balangir: 291 pending cases holding up a massive 2,316.40 acres of land.Subarnapur: 171 pending cases involving 1,105.92 acres of land.Bargarh: 143 pending cases tying up 1,599.12 acres of land.Sambalpur: 37 pending cases.Sundargarh: 36 pending cases.Boudh: 6 pending cases. Jharsuguda: 1 pending case. Performance during the review period was remarkably poor. Only a handful of cases were resolved across the entire division:Keonjhar: 10 cases decidedBargarh: 3 cases decidedBalangir: 2 cases decidedDeogarh: 1 case decidedSambalpur: 1 case decided. Alarmingly, the report revealed that absolutely zero cases were decided in Boudh, Jharsuguda, Subarnapur, and Sundargarh during this period. The lack of progress comes despite a prior push by the state government. On January 15, 2025, the Revenue and Disaster Management Department extended the deadline until December 31, to settle rents and remove the "unsettled land" status from the Record of Rights (RoR).Faced with ongoing inertia, the Revenue Department has directed District Magistrates and Tehsildars of the concerned districts to take immediate, effective steps. Officials have been ordered to review pending cases regularly, accelerate decision-making, and submit quarterly progress reports on time to clear the massive land backlog. --- # Cannabis Raid Uncovers Illegal Leopard Skin in Jeypore; One Arrested Source: https://mediathepower.com/cannabis-raid-uncovers-illegal-leopard-skin-in-jeypore-one-arrested.md ODISHA: In a startling turn of events, a cannabis investigation took a wild turn when a special police team from Gujarat accidentally uncovered an illegal wildlife trade operation, leading to the seizure of a leopard skin and the arrest of one individual in Jeypore town of Koraput district.According to official sources, the special team from Gujarat was actively investigating a high-profile cannabis trade ring in the region. Acting on specific leads, the team conducted a surprise raid on the residence of a young man located in the town's Irrigation Colony. While searching for contraband narcotics, the officers instead stumbled upon a concealed leopard skin. Recognizing the gravity of the wildlife violation, the Gujarat police team immediately confiscated the hide and handed it over to the local Forest Department at the Jeypore Range Office for proper legal handling.Taking swift action, the Jeypore Forest Department officially registered a case and arrested an individual connected to the property. The accused is currently being produced before the local court. The seized leopard skin has been taken into formal custody by forest authorities to be presented as primary material evidence during the judicial proceedings. "The arrested individual is undergoing intense interrogation," stated a senior Forest Department official. "Our primary focus right now is to trace the origin of the leopard skin, determine where the animal was poached, and identify the larger network of individuals involved in this smuggling ring."The Jeypore Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Prakash Patel confirmed that strict statutory actions are underway. The DFO added that follow-up raids and further legal procedures will be aggressively pursued based on the actionable intelligence gathered during the ongoing interrogation and investigation. --- # Five Rare Orangutans Rescued from Odisha Forest; International Trafficking Link Suspected Source: https://mediathepower.com/five-rare-orangutans-rescued-from-odisha-forest-international-trafficking-link-suspected.md ODISHA — In a startling and highly unusual discovery, five critically endangered orangutans were rescued from the Ranakotha Reserve Forest in Odisha’s Balasore district on Tuesday, 8 September 2026. The unexpected appearance of these great apes, which are non-indigenous to India, has prompted the Odisha State Government to suspect an active international wildlife trafficking ring and order a high-level probe. The animals, estimated to be between one and two years old, were first spotted by local residents and a routine morning patrol team from the Udayapur Forest Division. The young primates were found wandering near the Bichitrapur forest area under the Bhograi block.As news of the exotic wildlife spread, large crowds of curious locals gathered in the area to record videos of the animals, which initially baffled local forest staff. Divisional forest officers believe the smugglers panicked due to tightening law enforcement along the interstate border and abandoned the valuable cargo near the West Bengal-Odisha boundary. State authorities revealed that each young orangutan commands a staggering estimated black-market value of ₹25 lakh. Expressing deep concern over the breach, State Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia confirmed that the government has officially called upon the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) to spearhead a comprehensive cross-border investigation."Senior field officers are currently verifying border entry points and combing neighboring forest sections to ensure no other smuggled animals remain stranded in the wild," Minister Singhkhuntia stated. The five young orangutans were safely captured by a rescue team led by Udayapur Forest Ranger Sanjay Mohanty and brought to the local section office to protect them from public stress.A specialized medical unit, including veterinarians from Simlipal National Park, was deployed to assess the animals and arrangements are underway to transfer the rescued primates to the Nandankanan Zoological Park in Bhubaneswar for long-term quarantine and care once final clearances are issued. --- # Brajrajnagar Bus Stand Row Escalates as Residents Demand Speedy Completion at Same Site Source: https://mediathepower.com/brajrajnagar-bus-stand-row-escalates-as-residents-demand-speedy-completion-at-same-site.md JHARSUGUDA- The ongoing controversy surrounding the under-construction bus stand in Brajrajnagar, Jharsuguda, escalated further on Monday as local residents stepped in to demand the immediate completion of the project. A delegation of local citizens submitted a formal memorandum to the District Collector, strongly urging the administration not to halt construction work under any circumstances. Emphasizing the immense public benefit of the upcoming facility, the residents specifically requested that the bus stand be constructed at the designated. The project is currently being executed by the district administration in strict compliance with a court order. While the administration recently conducted a comprehensive review of the ongoing work, opposing factions have sparked a debate over its location. However, the residents who submitted the memorandum argued that delaying or shifting the project would deprive the local population of much-needed infrastructure. They highlighted that a modern bus stand at the current site is crucial for improving regional connectivity and alleviating daily commuting challenges. --- # Coal Transport Halt: Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari Intervenes After Truck Owners Raise Grievances Source: https://mediathepower.com/coal-transport-halt-revenue-minister-suresh-pujari-intervenes-after-truck-owners-raise-grievances.md **JHARSUGUDA:** Members of the Bandbahal Truck Owners Association met with Brajrajnagar MLA and State Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari today to seek his urgent intervention regarding the ongoing halt in coal transportation. Coal transport by trucks from the Lakhanpur area mines has been completely suspended since the first of this month. The disruption follows the state government Mining Department's decision to withhold transportation permits for Mahanadi Coalfields Limited’s (MCL) Lakhanpur operations. The administrative action was taken due to outstanding tax dues amounting to ₹130 crore owed by the operator to the state government. As a result of the permit freeze, thousands of transport trucks have been left idle, severely impacting the livelihoods of local operators and drivers. Upon being briefed on the escalating crisis, Minister Suresh Pujari immediately contacted the State Mining Secretary. The Minister directed the department to expedite the resolution of the dispute and ensure that the necessary permits are issued at the earliest to resume normal operations. Assuring the delegation of truck owners, Minister Pujari stated that the government is committed to resolving their grievances promptly to prevent further economic distress to the local transport sector. --- # CRITICAL SPACE CRUNCH: Stray Cattle Flood Jharsuguda Roads as 60% of Grazing Lands Vanish Source: https://mediathepower.com/critical-space-crunch-stray-cattle-flood-jharsuguda-roads-as-60-of-grazing-lands-vanish.md JHARSUGUDA — The menace of stray cattle on the streets of Jharsuguda has reached a tipping point in 2026, exposing a severe crisis driven by rapid development, systemic encroachment, and collective public neglect. Once a rare sight, cattle roaming major thoroughfares have now become a daily hazard for commuters across the district's three municipalities and five blocks. Local experts and residents point out that the blame lies equally with negligent cattle owners and a community that has turned a blind eye to the root cause of the issue: the systematic destruction of natural habitats. Estimates indicate that only about 40% of the district's original grazing land remains intact today. Rapid industrialization and urban expansion have led to massive deforestation, stripping animals of their natural foraging grounds. The missing 60% of gochar land has been swallowed up by Private individuals have unlawfully seized designated pastures for residential, commercial, or agricultural use and Large parcels of land have been repurposed for public infrastructure and industries state-led development projects. Everyone complains about traffic hazards and accidents caused by stray cattle, but no one asks why they are on the asphalt in the first place," said a local resident. "We destroyed their homes in the name of progress. If the very land meant to sustain these animals is gone, they have nowhere left to go but the streets. As urban boundaries continue to expand across Jharsuguda, the lack of designated rehabilitation spaces or cattle colonies ensures that the roads will remain the default sanctuary for displaced livestock, posing ongoing risks to both human lives and animal welfare. some activists are now calling on the district administration to audit remaining gochar lands and evict illegal encroachers before the urban ecosystem collapses further. --- # Vedanta Jharsuguda Under Multi-Pronged Probe Over ₹304-Cr Penalties, Waste and Water Use Source: https://mediathepower.com/vedanta-jharsuguda-under-multi-pronged-probe-over-%e2%82%b9304-cr-penalties-waste-and-water-use.md JHARSUGUDA- The Vedanta Aluminium mega facility in Jharsuguda is facing multi-pronged regulatory scrutiny as state authorities launch sweeping investigations into historical water extraction and environmental compliance.  In a major escalation, the Odisha Water Resources Department has directed the Burla Irrigation Division to submit a comprehensive report mapping out the plant’s entire water sourcing history. The investigation aims to track the facility’s cumulative drawal patterns stretching back to its initial construction phase.  This directive follows an ongoing dispute over a ₹233.11 crore demand notice previously slapped on the unit by state authorities for allegedly drawing unauthorized water from the Bheden river system. While Vedanta has legally contested the penalty, claiming the government's calculations rest on flawed assumptions, administrative pressure is mounting. Parallelly, a specialized district-level panel has initiated physical inspections of the facility's borewells following complaints that groundwater was being extracted through unmetered systems without mandatory statutory clearances.  Compounding its resource allocation troubles, the aluminum major is simultaneously battling massive environmental penalties. The Odisha State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB) recently levied a ₹71.16 crore environmental compensation fine on Vedanta. The penalty targets the alleged unauthorized dumping of over 7 lakh metric tonnes of industrial coal fly ash across neighboring districts.  Local judicial bodies and environmental panels have also intervened, ordering fresh probes into how the facility manages its combustion residues. Investigators are tasked with evaluating the long-term ecological impact of these waste disposal practices on the vital Bheden and Ib river ecosystems, signaling a prolonged legal and regulatory battle for the manufacturing hub. --- # Jharsuguda POCSO Court Sentences Two to 20 Years for Minor’s Rape; Convict Revealed to Have AIDS Source: https://mediathepower.com/jharsuguda-pocso-court-sentences-two-to-20-years-for-minors-rape-convict-revealed-to-have-aids.md JHARSUGUDA: In a significant legal ruling regarding the sexual exploitation of a minor, the Special POCSO Court in Jharsuguda has sentenced two convicts to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment each for the rape of a minor.The verdict was delivered by Additional District and Sessions Judge and Special POCSO Judge Puja Sarangi, who found both accused—identified as Prem Suna and Akash Sindhiria—guilty of the heinous crime. The offense occurred within the jurisdiction of the Orient Police Station in Jharsuguda district. Medical reports scrutinized during the trial revealed a highly disturbing detail: one of the accused, Prem Suna, is suffering from AIDS and was already afflicted with this terminal illness at the time he committed the crime, significantly multiplying the trauma and danger for the victim. Alongside the 20-year prison terms, Judge Puja Sarangi imposed a fine of ₹30,000 on each convict. Failure to pay the fine will result in an additional one-year prison term for each. The decisive sentence followed a thorough trial during which the court heard the testimonies of 24 witnesses and meticulously examined crucial medical and scientific evidence. --- # Gridlock Over ₹130-Crore Tax Dues Freezes Lakhanpur Coal Supply; Over 3,000 Families Face Livelihood Crisis Source: https://mediathepower.com/gridlock-over-%e2%82%b9130-crore-tax-dues-freezes-lakhanpur-coal-supply-over-3000-families-face-livelihood-crisis.md **JHARSUGUDA**: A deepening administrative deadlock between Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) and the state government has completely halted coal transportation in the Lakhanpur area, triggering widespread public resentment, a severe livelihood crisis, and major environmental hazards. The crisis erupted on the first of the month when the state’s Mining Department abruptly stopped issuing essential transit permits. According to **Mr. Dinesh Agarwal, Deputy Director of Mines (Sambalpur)**, the action was taken because MCL’s Lakhanpur area owes approximately ₹130 crore in outstanding tax dues. The state government recently unified its transit permit tax, pushing all grades of coal into the highest tax slab—a policy shift that MCL has legally challenged. Because the matter is currently pending before a tribunal, MCL has refused to clear the disputed rates, resulting in total bureaucratic gridlock. Seeking urgent intervention, the Bandhabahal Truck Association submitted a written complaint to the District Collector. However, two days have passed without any administrative breakthrough. As a result, local frustration is peaking, and the region is rapidly edging toward active public unrest. Members of Bandhabahal Truck Association said that The sudden freeze has brought the local economy to a grinding halt. More than 1,000 trucks that normally transport coal daily have been grounded, directly threatening the survival of 3,000 to 4,000 families—including truck owners, drivers, helpers, and small roadside vendors. The logistics chokehold is also crippling rail supply chains. While **MCL PRO B. Behuria** declined to give an official comment, **Mr. Ghanshyam, Area Railway Manager (ARM) Brajrajnagar Railway**, confirmed that rake loading operations out of Lakhanpur have plummeted. While outward transportation has completely stopped, coal mining operations have continued uninterrupted for the past four days. This operational mismatch has caused massive, unstable stockpiles of coal to accumulate rapidly across the yard.Safety experts warn that these large, stagnant mounds face an immediate and escalating risk of spontaneous combustion, which could reduce vital national energy assets to ashes. Making matters worse, the Lakhanpur coalfield had only recently managed to clear out its old stock, meaning the facility is now facing a critical shortage of storage space to handle this sudden bottleneck. --- # Jharsuguda Municipality Scam: Chairman Rani Hati Summoned By Vigilance Over Rs 40 Lakh Fund Misappropriation Source: https://mediathepower.com/jharsuguda-municipality-scam-chairman-rani-hati-summoned-by-vigilance-over-rs-40-lakh-fund-misappropriation.md JHARSUGUDA- A massive political storm has erupted in the Jharsuguda Municipality following severe allegations of Rs 40 lakh financial misappropriation, leading the Odisha Vigilance Department to summon the civic body's top leadership. The anti-corruption wing has served an urgent legal notice to the current Jharsuguda Municipality Chairman, Rani Hati, ordering her to appear in person for intense questioning on September 8, 2026, at 10:30 AM at the Jharsuguda Vigilance Unit office. The investigation centers on the alleged embezzlement and redirection of government funds worth Rs 40 lakh allocated during the financial years 2023–24 and 2024–25. Issued by DSP Kalabati Bagh under Notice No. 682/2026, the summons originates from the high-level Rourkela Vigilance File No. 2/2026. vigilance officials have treated this case with high priority, indicating that multiple municipal officers and administrative insiders are currently under the scanner and the upcoming face-to-face interrogation on September 8 is expected to reveal deep-rooted administrative lapses and clarify the exact routing of the missing public funds. --- # Coal India Unit Mahanadi Coalfields Files DRHP for Mega 10% IPO Divestment Source: https://mediathepower.com/coal-india-unit-mahanadi-coalfields-files-drhp-for-mega-10-ipo-divestment.md JHARSUGUDA — Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL), a powerhouse subsidiary of state-run Coal India Limited (CIL), has officially initiated its public market debut by filing its Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) with the market regulator SEBI. The landmark Initial Public Offering (IPO) will consist entirely of an Offer for Sale (OFS) representing a 10% stake by Coal India. The public issue involves up to 66.18 crore equity shares with a face value of ₹2 each. As an OFS, 100% of the capital raised will head directly to the parent company, Coal India. The allocation framework for the highly anticipated public issue is structured as Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs): Up to 50% of the total issue size. Retail Investors: At least 35% reserved, ensuring strong participation from small investors. Non-Institutional Investors (NIIs): At least 15% allocated for high-net-worth individuals. Shareholder Quota Advantage: Retail shareholders who own Coal India shares prior to the finalization of the Red Herring Prospectus (RHP) may be eligible for a reserved shareholder category. SBI Capital Markets is acting as the lead manager for the IPO, while Kfin Technologies has been appointed as the registrar. MCL stands as a crown jewel for Coal India, contributing over 21% of India’s entire domestic coal production. The company enters the primary market backed by exceptionally strong financial fundamentals reported for FY26:Total Revenue: ₹33,899.28 croresNet Profit: ₹10,698.12 croresThe market reacted with strong optimism to the DRHP filing. In immediate response, shares of the parent company, Coal India Limited, surged up to 5% on the BSE,reflecting positive investor sentiment surrounding the massive value-unlocking move. --- # IAF to Induct Ultra-Long-Range R-37M ‘AWACS Killer’ Missiles to Boost Su-30 MKI Firepower Source: https://mediathepower.com/iaf-to-induct-ultra-long-range-r-37m-awacs-killer-missiles-to-boost-su-30-mki-firepower.md JHARSUGUDA — The Indian Air Force is set to significantly bolster its long-range strike capabilities by inducting the Russian-origin RVV-BD missile system, a strategic move aimed at neutralizing high-value enemy assets like AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control Systems) and mid-air refuelling tankers at extreme ranges.According to reports by ANI, the Defence Acquisition Council has likely cleared the acquisition of the baseline R-37M missile system, branded for export as the RVV-BD. While official details remain cryptic, defense analysts speculate that a formal agreement could be finalized during Russian President Vladimir Putin's upcoming visit to India. The procurement highlights a critical shift in the regional aerial doctrine. Recent border conflicts have seen neighboring air forces alter their rules of engagement, utilizing Beyond-Visual-Range (BVR) missiles from maximum distances to force opposing fighter jets into defensive postures, even without a hard radar lock. The introduction of the R-37M ensures that India’s frontline Su-30 MKI fleet can project power even further, forcing enemy force multipliers to break formation at distances exceeding 300 kilometres. The announcement has triggered a debate within Indian defense circles regarding how the weapon compares to India's indigenous Astra missile program. While the upcoming Astra Mark-2 and Mark-3 variants boast impressive ranges of 240 km and nearly 300 km respectively, experts emphasize that the R-37M belongs to an entirely different class of weaponry.Unlike the Astra Mark-2, which is a highly agile BVR missile designed to dogfight maneuverable fighter jets, the R-37M is a massive, heavy-duty "AWACS killer." Weighing 510 kg with a length of 4.6 meters and a diameter of 38 cm, the Russian missile is nearly three times larger than the Astra Mark-2. This immense size allows the R-37M to carry significantly more propellant and a massive warhead—roughly four times larger than that of a standard BVR missile. While physics dictates that such a heavy missile loses the agility required to chase nimble fighter jets, its sheer destructive radius compensates for reduced accuracy at extreme ranges. A larger warhead creates a massive blast cloud and wide shrapnel dispersion, ensuring that even a near-miss can catastrophically damage large, sluggish targets like tankers and command aircraft. Initial public confusion regarding the deal stemmed from the "RVV-BD" nomenclature used in media reports, which many mistook for a downgraded export variant limited to a 200 km range. In reality, the IAF is acquiring the high-end baseline model, a system that successfully demonstrated its 300-plus kilometer engagement capability during its initial testing phase nearly two decades ago. The missile has also recently demonstrated high operational efficacy in ongoing combat operations in Ukraine. While the induction of the R-37M addresses an immediate strategic requirement for the Su-30 MKI fleet, defense insiders suggest that India must simultaneously leverage its domestic programs. Using the technology foundational to existing indigenous platforms like the Rudram-1, India could eventually develop its own domestic class of ultra-long-range air-to-air missiles, mitigating long-term supply chain and production bottlenecks associated with foreign imports. --- # Bengal Launches 4 Toll-Free Helplines to Combat Syndicate Extortion and “Cut Money Source: https://mediathepower.com/bengal-launches-4-toll-free-helplines-to-combat-syndicate-extortion-and-cut-money.md Jharsuguda- Union Home Minister Amit Shah reviewed the functioning of four newly operationalized toll-free helplines in West Bengal, emphasizing that swift action will be ensured on every public complaint to dismantle entrenched extortion systems. The review meeting took place in Siliguri with West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and senior administrative officials. The Government of West Bengal has dedicated specific toll-free channels for public grievances: 📞 155334 – To report illegal commissions or "cut money". 📞 155335 – To report syndicate-related corruption and extortion.📞 155337 – To report illegal roadside tax or unauthorized toll collection. 📞 155339 – To report bootlegging and illegal liquor activities. The control room operates initially from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM at Nabanna, with plans to transition into a 24/7 service. The state is using artificial intelligence to automatically screen, process, and route public calls to corresponding law enforcement wings Citizens are permitted to lodge complaints anonymously, though all incoming calls are recorded for administrative retrieval. Authorities have explicitly cautioned that sharing false information or utilizing the grievance line to settle personal disputes will attract strict legal penalties --- # Rajasthan School Fund Row: Critics Slam Activist’s ‘Kejriwal-Style’ Credit Claim After Timeline Exposes Gaps Source: https://mediathepower.com/rajasthan-school-fund-row-critics-slam-activists-kejriwal-style-credit-claim-after-timeline-exposes-gaps.md JHARSUGUDA — A massive political row has broken out over who deserves credit for the Rajasthan government’s massive investment in public school infrastructure. The controversy began after Abhijit Deepke, founder of the youth-led youth movement Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), posted a late-night tweet on August 20 claiming a major victory. Deepke asserted that a continuous push by CJP leader Ashutosh Ranka had forced the Rajasthan government to allocate ₹409 crore to rebuild 300 dilapidated schools. Jitendra Patnaik, odisha BJP’s media cell, stated that Deepke had trapped himself in his own "credit game." Patnaik pointed out that while CJP officially announced its educational campaign on August 7, the official government circular approving the ₹409 crore budget was issued weeks earlier, on July 12. "Did the Rajasthan government have a premonition that Deepke would launch a campaign 20 days later?" Patnaik questioned. "They are putting up posters to create a false narrative for political points, claiming credit for an impact that happened a full month before their announcement" he added direct comparisons between Deepke’s strategy and the early political maneuvers of AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal. They allege that both figures have relied on sensationalism and protest backdrops to manufacture political narratives and mislead the public. --- # US Ambassador Calls J&K ‘Important Part Of India’, Hints At Revising Travel Advisory Source: https://mediathepower.com/us-ambassador-calls-jk-important-part-of-india-hints-at-revising-travel-advisory.md Jharsuguda-On August 19, 2026, the United States Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, formally called Jammu and Kashmir an "important part of India" during his first diplomatic visit to the region. Speaking to reporters after meeting Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in Srinagar, Ambassador Gor stated: "J&K is an important part of India and it's an incredibly beautiful place. Delhi and the state government have made incredible steps to keep this place safe. Ambassador Gor indicated that following the positive changes and security progress in the region, the United States will reconsider and evaluate its current adverse travel advisories for American citizens visiting the territory. Indian political leaders widely welcomed the remarks. Members of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and opposition figure Shashi Tharoor hailed the statement as a major success for Indian diplomacy and a reflection of ground realities. Local trade groups like the Indian Chamber of Commerce noted it as a massive confidence booster for international tourism. --- # Massive ISI-Backed Terror Module Busted; Over 200 Arrested in 14-State Source: https://mediathepower.com/massive-isi-backed-terror-module-busted-over-200-arrested-in-14-state.md Jharsuguda-Union Home Minister Amit Shah tweets that Indian security agencies have successfully dismantled a massive, cross-border terror module known as the Shahzad Bhatti Network. Supported directly by Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), the module was plotting widespread, high-intensity strikes across the country designed to mirror the scale of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. In a meticulously coordinated, multi-state operation launched on August 12 by central intelligence agencies and state police forces, authorities executed a pre-emptive sweep across 14 states. Security forces detained 253 individuals and formally arrested over 200 operatives linked to the network. The bulk of the crackdowns centered on northern states, resulting in 62 arrests from Uttar Pradesh, 52 from Haryana, 51 from Delhi, and 44 from Punjab. Law enforcement agencies registered more than 80 First Information Reports (FIRs) under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).The network—masterminded by Shahzad Bhatti, a former gangster turned Pakistan-based terror handler—specifically aimed to launch its offensive around Independence Day to maximise casualties and panic. Raids yielded substantial caches of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), hand grenades, pistols, and live cartridges. Investigators confirmed that several seized hand grenades explicitly bore markings from Pakistan Ordnance Factories. We praised the seamless execution of the real-time intelligence-sharing mechanism that enabled forces to intercept the threat. Commentators and security experts have likened the quiet efficiency of India's intelligence network to world-class goalkeeping; while public focus often defaults to the security failures that lead to attacks, the peace citizens enjoy is a direct result of the hundreds of catastrophic "goals" these agencies successfully block behind the scenes. --- # Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance, Rolls-Royce To Develop Fighter Jet Engines In India Source: https://mediathepower.com/mukesh-ambanis-reliance-rolls-royce-to-develop-fighter-jet-engines-in-india.md Jharsuguda- Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) and Rolls-Royce have signed a Letter of Intent on August 14, 2026, to co-develop an indigenous combat engine for India's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) Facility & Scope: Establishment of an Indian center for end-to-end engine design, manufacturing, and life-cycle support. Facility & Scope: Establishment of an Indian center for end-to-end engine design, manufacturing, and life-cycle support. AMCA Integration: Targeted to power the Mk2 variant of India's fifth-generation stealth fighter The partnership may expand into naval propulsion and civil aviation, challenging bids from France's Safran and navigating past GE's supply delays. Ground testing is slated for 2032 and flight testing by 2034. "India's strategic autonomy requires sovereign capability…" — Anant Ambani, Executive Director, Reliance Industries" --- # Historic First in Indian Parliament: Opposition Boycotts 2026 Monsoon Session, Allowing Government to Smoothly Pass 12 Key Bills Amid Total Standoff Source: https://mediathepower.com/historic-first-in-indian-parliament-opposition-boycotts-2026-monsoon-session-allowing-government-to-smoothly-pass-12-key-bills-amid-total-standoff.md Jharsuguda- The 2026 Monsoon Session of Parliament has witnessed an unprecedented political standoff, marking a historic first since the enforcement of the Indian Constitution.In a complete reversal of traditional parliamentary dynamics, the ruling dispensation repeatedly extended open invitations to the opposition benches for structured deliberations, only to face a total and persistent boycott. Never before in India's constitutional history has a ruling party consistently pleaded for debate while the opposition entirely refused to participate. Traditionally, the opposition disrupts proceedings to demand discussions, while the treasury benches push through legislative business. Treasury Benches accused the opposition of fleeing from democratic accountability, subverting parliamentary traditions, and wasting public exchequer money. Opposition Benches countered that the invitations were a political smoke screen, alleging that the government refused to clear the floor for their specific. Political analysts says that this shift represents a significant hardening of positions. By completely boycotting the 2026 Monsoon Session, the opposition effectively deflated the immense political pressure mounting against the government from the so called student-led Jantar Mantar agitation, inadvertently allowing the ruling party to seamlessly pass 12 key legislative bills while leaving the protesting factions entirely empty-handed. --- # India’s Kaveri 2.0 Jet Engine Reborn: DRDO Overhauls Core with Advanced Blisks and 100 kN Afterburner to Replace Delayed US GE-F404 Powerplants Source: https://mediathepower.com/indias-kaveri-2-0-jet-engine-reborn-drdo-overhauls-core-with-advanced-blisks-and-100-kn-afterburner-to-replace-delayed-us-ge-f404-powerplants.md NEW DELHI — In a major push toward defense self-reliance, the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has officially initiated the Kaveri 2.0 fighter jet engine project. The strategic revival comes amid mounting global supply chain bottlenecks and severe delivery delays of American General Electric (GE) F404 engines. These delays have left dozens of newly built HAL Tejas Mark 1A airframes parked on the tarmac awaiting propulsion units. Engineers are completely rebuilding the engine core, prioritizing a redesigned High-Pressure Compressor (HPC) engineered to maximize pressure ratios and fuel efficiency. To endure extreme internal temperatures and drastically increase durability, the new blueprint integrates single-piece blisks (bladed disks) machined from advanced titanium alloys alongside single-crystal turbine blades.The Kaveri 2.0 targets a baseline "dry" thrust of 55 kN to 60 kN and a maximum "wet" thrust (with afterburner) of 90 kN to 100 kN. This power output successfully aligns with the performance class of the GE F404 engines, paving the way for Kaveri 2.0 to serve as a direct indigenous powerplant replacement during future mid-life upgrades of India's frontline fighter fleet. ![](https://mediathepower.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Untitled111.jpg) NEW DELHI — In a major push toward defense self-reliance, the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has officially initiated the Kaveri 2.0 fighter jet engine project. The strategic revival comes amid mounting global supply chain bottlenecks and severe delivery delays of American General Electric (GE) F404 engines. These delays have left dozens of newly built HAL Tejas Mark 1A airframes parked on the tarmac awaiting propulsion units. Engineers are completely rebuilding the engine core, prioritizing a redesigned High-Pressure Compressor (HPC) engineered to maximize pressure ratios and fuel efficiency. To endure extreme internal temperatures and drastically increase durability, the new blueprint integrates single-piece blisks (bladed disks) machined from advanced titanium alloys alongside single-crystal turbine blades.The Kaveri 2.0 targets a baseline "dry" thrust of 55 kN to 60 kN and a maximum "wet" thrust (with afterburner) of 90 kN to 100 kN. This power output successfully aligns with the performance class of the GE F404 engines, paving the way for Kaveri 2.0 to serve as a direct indigenous powerplant replacement during future mid-life upgrades of India's frontline fighter fleet. --- # Cart Source: https://mediathepower.com/cart.md ## You may be interested in… ## Cart --- --- # My account Source: https://mediathepower.com/my-account.md [woocommerce_my_account] --- # About Source: https://mediathepower.com/about.md # Hey, Thrilled to Meet You --- ![](https://demo.peregrine-themes.com/blogsy/gutenberg/wp-content/themes/blogsy/assets/images/patterns/laptop.webp) ![](https://demo.peregrine-themes.com/blogsy/gutenberg/wp-content/themes/blogsy/assets/images/patterns/love-hearts.webp) ![](https://demo.peregrine-themes.com/blogsy/gutenberg/wp-content/themes/blogsy/assets/images/patterns/interior-decor.webp) **By 2022, the buzz around our innovative projects finally paid off, landing our breakthrough client—a prominent regional retail powerhouse. 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