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At IndiaVerve, we go beyond the noise to bring you meaningful stories of change, resilience and progress—from India to the world stage. Our mission is to bring readers credible, wide-ranging coverage across politics, business, sports, culture, society and more.
At IndiaVerve, we go beyond the noise to bring you meaningful stories of change, resilience and progress—from India to the world stage. Our mission is to bring readers credible, wide-ranging coverage across politics, business, sports, culture, society and more.

Day: March 22, 2026

IIT Bhubaneswar signs MoU with Bhaktivedanta Research Centre to boost interdisciplinary research

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Bhubaneswar: The IIT Bhubaneswar has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Bhaktivedanta Research Centre (BRC), Kolkata, to strengthen academic collaboration in Indian Knowledge Systems, philosophy, digital humanities, and interdisciplinary research.

Prof. Dinakar Pasla, Dean (Sponsored Research and Industrial Consultancy), IIT Bhubaneswar, and Dr. Sumanta Rudra, Dean (Academics) and Trustee at BRC, signed the MoU in the presence of faculty members and officials from both institutions.

The collaboration will focus on joint initiatives in digital humanities, manuscript studies, and academic exchange, the BRC said in a statement.

It will include conferences, workshops, research projects, and collaborative publications. The partnership will also promote manuscript digitisation and the development of digital research tools and repositories.

Prof. Pasla said that the initiative would strengthen scholarly exchange and contribute to global discussions on Indian knowledge traditions, ethics, and sustainability.

The agreement aims to integrate traditional knowledge with modern academic and technological frameworks. It reflects a shared commitment to advancing interdisciplinary research and cultural scholarship.

Odisha releases B.Ed. M.Ed. and B.H.Ed. admission notification for 2026–27 session

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Bhubaneswar: The Higher Education Department, Odisha has issued a notification for admission to two-year B.Ed., M.Ed. and B.H.Ed. courses for the 2026–27 academic session.

The department will conduct admissions through an entrance examination. Candidates can apply online through the Student Academic Management System (SAMS) Odisha by submitting the Common Application Form (CAF) from March 23 to April 6, 2026.


Officials will send the applicant data to the State Selection Board Odisha on April 13 for conducting the entrance test. Admit cards will be available from May 27, 2026.

The B.Ed entrance examination will be held on May 31. The M.Ed and B.H.Ed entrance tests are scheduled for June 3, 2026.

Applicants seeking admission to teacher education programmes in Odisha should regularly check the official SAMS portal (https://te.samsodisha.gov.in/ ) for updates on the admission schedule and any changes in timelines.

Ancient crocodile that ran like a greyhound across prehistoric Britain

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London: Millions of years before crocodiles became synonymous with slow, stealthy predators lurking in water, one of their ancient relatives was built for speed, sprinting across land with surprising agility like a greyhound.

Scientists have identified a new species of early crocodile relative that lived around 215 million years ago in present-day United Kingdom. Unlike modern crocodiles, this reptile was adapted for life entirely on land, with long limbs and a light frame that allowed it to move swiftly in search of prey.

The species, named Galahadosuchus jonesi, is believed to have inhabited dry, upland landscapes during the Late Triassic period. It likely fed on small animals, including early mammals, amphibians and reptiles, using speed rather than ambush to hunt.

Researchers from the Natural History Museum in London found that the animal’s body structure was closer to that of a running mammal than a modern reptile. Its upright posture and slender build suggest an active predator capable of navigating vegetation and open terrain with ease.

The discovery, however, carries a personal dimension as well.

The species has been partly named after David Rhys Jones, a schoolteacher who played a key role in inspiring the study’s lead author, Ewan Bodenham, to pursue science. Reflecting on the tribute, Bodenham recalled how his teacher’s enthusiasm and ability to challenge students left a lasting impression on him.

“Mr. Jones was just such a good teacher, not only in being able to explain things well, but you could tell that he was genuinely interested in the sciences. I think that really inspired me,” said Bodenham, PhD student at the Natural History Museum London and UCL.

Fossil remains of the species were recovered from ancient fissure deposits in southern Wales and southwest England. These natural formations preserved the remains of animals that were washed into underground cavities and buried over time.

Initially, scientists considered whether the fossil belonged to a known species, but detailed analysis revealed multiple anatomical differences, confirming it as a distinct and previously unknown species.

The finding, published in the journal The Anatomical Record, adds to growing evidence that early relatives of crocodiles were far more diverse than their modern counterparts, occupying different ecological roles — including fast-moving terrestrial hunters.

It also provides valuable insight into life on Earth just before the Triassic-Jurassic mass extinction, a period marked by significant environmental upheaval. Studying such species helps researchers understand how ancient ecosystems functioned and how organisms responded to dramatic changes.

Beyond its scientific importance, the discovery stands as a reminder that inspiration in classrooms can echo across millions of years — shaping journeys that lead to uncovering the distant past, the reasearchers said.

Haryana tops National Para Athletics Championship, Odisha wins 17 medals

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Bhubaneswar: The 24th National Para Athletics Championship concluded at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, with Haryana emerging as the overall champion, followed by Tamil Nadu and Gujarat in second and third positions respectively.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi attended the closing ceremony and felicitated the winning athletes, encouraging them to continue striving for excellence in their sporting careers. Addressing the participants, he said that while victory and defeat are part of sports, para athletes are true winners for overcoming life’s challenges and turning their limitations into strengths.

The Chief Minister extended his best wishes to all athletes and urged them to bring glory to the nation in upcoming international events, including the Asian Para Games. He also specially congratulated the 40-member Odisha contingent for their performance.

According to an official release, Majhi highlighted the importance of perseverance and encouraged athletes to follow the path of accomplished sportspersons such as Paralympic medallist Pramod Bhagat and V. Ramesh Rao. He added that greater success awaits them and urged athletes to showcase their best performances on the global stage, bringing recognition to Odisha’s sporting talent.

A total of 1,460 para athletes from 28 states participated in the championship. Haryana secured the top position with 95 medals, while Tamil Nadu and Gujarat followed with 51 and 30 medals respectively.

Odisha delivered a commendable performance, winning a total of 17 medals, including five golds.

The Chief Minister also noted that Odisha has emerged as a prominent destination on the global sports map and announced that Bhubaneswar will host the World Indoor Athletics Championships in 2028, presenting another major opportunity for the state.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure, identifying talent, and promoting training and hosting of national and international sporting events. He also acknowledged the support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in advancing sports development in India and Odisha.

The event was attended by Sports and Youth Services Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, Sports Department Secretary Sachin R. Yadav, Paralympic Committee General Secretary Jaywant G.H., Para Athletics President Satyanarayana, and Para Sports Association of Odisha President Kamalakanta Rath, among others.

Trump warns strikes on Iran power plants as war intensifies

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Hormuz blockade, rising oil prices, airline losses and civilian toll highlight widening global and humanitarian impact of the escalating Iran conflict

The Iran conflict entered a critical phase as US President Donald Trump issued a stark ultimatum to Tehran, warning of direct attacks on energy infrastructure if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened.

According to CNBC, Trump said the United States would “hit and obliterate” Iran’s power plants if the key shipping route is not fully reopened within 48 hours. In a post on Truth Social, he wrote: “If Iran doesn’t FULLY OPEN… the Strait of Hormuz… the United States of America will hit and obliterate their various POWER PLANTS.”

The warning marks a sharp shift in tone, coming shortly after Trump had indicated that the US was “getting very close” to winding down military operations. He also reiterated that he is not in favour of a ceasefire, stating, “We could have dialogue, but I don’t want to do a ceasefire… you don’t do a ceasefire when you’re literally obliterating the other side,” CNBC reported.

The conflict, now in its fourth week, has seen continued exchanges of attacks between Iran and Israel. Iranian strikes reportedly hit areas near Israel’s main nuclear research facility, injuring dozens, following reports of US-Israeli attacks on Iran’s Natanz nuclear site.

Iran has responded with strong warnings. Iranian military has reportedly said that any further attacks on its energy infrastructure would lead to retaliation targeting US-linked energy, technology, and desalination facilities across the region.

Meanwhile, more than 100 people were injured after Iranian ballistic missile strikes hit the southern Israeli cities of Dimona and Arad, with at least 11 reported to be in serious condition, The Times of Israel reported, adding that Israeli air defence systems failed to intercept at least two missiles. Among the critically injured were a 12-year-old boy and a five-year-old girl.

Following the attacks, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israel Defense Forces Chief Lt Gen Eyal Zamir vowed to continue military operations on “all fronts”, while the Israeli Air Force launched fresh strikes targeting infrastructure in Tehran. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has also signalled further escalation, saying attacks on Iran would “increase significantly” in the coming days.

ALSO READ: PM Modi speaks with Iran president, condemns attacks on critical infrastructure

At the centre of the crisis is the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy corridor through which nearly a fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas supplies pass. Iran’s restrictions on the strait have disrupted global trade, pushing oil prices higher and raising fears of inflation across economies.

The economic impact is already visible. According to a report by the Financial Times, the world’s 20 largest airlines have lost around $53 billion in market value since the war began, with rising fuel costs and disrupted flight routes creating the industry’s biggest crisis since the pandemic.

On the ground, the humanitarian toll continues to rise. Reports indicate that more than 200 cities in Iran have been hit by US-Israeli strikes, with over 1,400 people killed. Civilian areas, including homes, schools, hospitals and aid facilities, have also been affected, highlighting the widening impact of the conflict.

With threats of direct attacks on energy infrastructure, disruption of global supply chains, and rising civilian casualties, the crisis is rapidly evolving into a broader geopolitical and economic confrontation.

BJD suspends six MLAs over Rajya Sabha cross voting

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Bhubaneswar: Adopting a tough stance, the BJD on Saturday suspended six MLAs from the party for alleged anti-party activities.

The suspended MLAs are Chakramani Kanhar, Naba Kishore Mallick, Souvik Biswal, Subasini Jena, Ramakanta Bhoi, and Devi Ranjan Tripathy.

In an official order, the party said that the suspended MLAs violated the core principles of the BJD Constitution by cross-voting in the recent Rajya Sabha elections.

The decision to suspend the MLAs was taken during the party’s Political Affairs Committee (PAC) meeting, which was also attended by BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik.

After the suspension of six MLAs, the BJD’s strength has come down to 42 in the 147-member Assembly.

During the PAC meeting, Patnaik advised everyone to strengthen the party at the grassroots level and to raise their voice to address the issues faced by the people of Odisha.

Meanwhile, the BJD strongly criticised Prabhat Biswal, who has been embroiled in corruption cases, including chit fund scams, stating that his remarks on the party’s principles and ethics are nothing but a rant from a mad person.

The party alleged that he betrayed Patnaik by involving his son, Souvik Biswal, in horse-trading during the Rajya Sabha elections and amassing crores of rupees. It asserted that the people of Cuttack will never forgive him.

Addressing a press conference held at Shankha Bhawan, the party’s senior General Secretary Lekha Samantsinghar said that Prabhat Biswal was involved in a tube well installation scam during the tenure of the then Congress government in 1995 and had misappropriated crores of rupees.

Odisha showcases rich heritage at ‘Odisha Parab’ in Ahmedabad

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Bhubaneswar: Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida inaugurated “Odisha Parab 2026” at the Gujarat University Convention and Exhibition Centre in Ahmedabad on Saturday.

During the three-day event, Odisha’s rich heritage, vibrant traditions, handicrafts, handlooms, authentic cuisine, and diverse tourism experiences will be promoted.

Parida told the gathering that Odisha Parab serves as a flagship cultural outreach initiative and presents the state as an experiential destination that blends heritage, spirituality, nature, cuisine, and modern tourism infrastructure.

Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Rameshkumar Sanghavi, who also attended the inaugural ceremony, said that from rich heritage and deep-rooted traditions to a shared legacy of art, crafts, and devotion, both states reflect India’s diverse yet unified soul.

In a post on X, he said that the coastal spirit, entrepreneurial energy, and cultural pride create strong similarities between Gujarat and Odisha.

The event is organised by the Department of Tourism, the Central government, in association with FICCI as the industry partner. It will conclude on Monday.

Odisha Parab 2026 is being organised with the support of the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department, Handlooms, Textiles and Handicrafts Department, ORMAS, and Mission Shakti.

The three-day event features a curated exhibition of Odisha’s arts, handicrafts, textiles, and handlooms, live culinary showcases of authentic Odia cuisine, classical, folk, and tribal cultural performances, and a dedicated tourism pavilion highlighting Odisha’s key destinations and tourism products.

It also includes B2B, G2B, and diaspora interactions to deepen tourism and cultural partnerships.

The event is open to the public and invites people in Ahmedabad to experience the spirit, stories, and soul of Odisha.

The inaugural ceremony was also attended by Ahmedabad Municipal Commissioner Banchanidhi Pani, Tourism Commissioner-cum-Secretary Balwant Singh, and Tourism Director Deepankar Mohapatra, along with tourism stakeholders, industry leaders, members of the Odia diaspora, and guests.

Indian shuttlers exit Orleans Masters after semi-final defeats

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New Delhi: India’s challenge at the Orleans Masters 2026 ended in the semi-finals after Tanvi Sharma and Isharani Baruah lost their respective women’s singles matches at the Palais des Sports on Saturday.

Tanvi Sharma, ranked 38th and a World Junior Championships silver medallist, went down to Japan’s Nozomi Okuhara 21-9, 21-16 in a 35-minute contest.

Okuhara took control early and built a steady lead in the opening game. Tanvi trailed 11-6 at the interval and could not recover as the Japanese shuttler closed it out comfortably, according to olympics.com.

The second game saw a sharper response from the 17-year-old, who matched her opponent to 12-all. Okuhara then lifted the tempo and pulled clear in the closing phase to seal the match and progress further.

The semi-final marked Tanvi Sharma’s second appearance in the last four of a BWF Super 300 event. She had earlier finished runner-up at the US Open BWF Super 300 2025, becoming the youngest Indian woman to reach a World Tour final at 16.

In the other semi-final, Baruah, ranked 52nd, lost 21-12, 23-21 to Thailand’s Pitchamon Opatniputh.

Pitchamon dominated the opening game from the outset, leaving Isharani with little room to settle into the match.

Isharani responded strongly in the next game and opened up a 10-5 lead. The Thai player fought back to move ahead 13-10, but Isharani stayed in contention and forced a tense finish. She saved a match point and extended the contest before falling short in the closing moments.