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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.
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Day: May 21, 2026

Indian Armed Forces showcases special operations capability at SOF Week 2026

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New Delhi: An Indian Armed Forces delegation, led by Lieutenant General Pushpendra Pal Singh, participated in the Special Operations Forces Week (SOF Week 2026) held in Tampa, US, from May 18 to 21, 2026, bringing together defence leaders, Special Operations Forces, and industry representatives from over 70 countries.

The delegation from the Indian Army, including senior leadership from Western Command, Indian Army, engaged with global counterparts in discussions and demonstrations focused on evolving special operations challenges, multi-domain warfare, and international defence cooperation.

In a notable first, the Indian Army also took part in the CAPEX Capability Demonstration segment of the event.

The showcase highlighted the operational proficiency of Indian Special Forces, with emphasis on counter-terrorism missions, unconventional warfare techniques, and expertise in high-altitude and jungle warfare environments, the Army said in a post on X.

Officials indicated that the participation underlined India’s expanding role in global special operations forums and reflected growing defence collaboration between India and the US.

The engagement at SOF Week 2026 was seen as part of broader efforts to strengthen interoperability and strategic defence partnerships while highlighting the capabilities of Indian Special Forces on an international platform.

India’s Malaysia Masters 2026 run sees multiple second-round exits

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New Delhi: India’s challenge at the Malaysia Masters 2026 in Kuala Lumpur saw a string of exits on Thursday at the Stadium Axiata Arena, with players bowing out across events at the second-round stage.

In women’s singles, Malvika Bansod was eliminated after a 16-21, 21-8, 21-15 loss to Denmark’s Line Kjærsfeldt in the second round. The Indian started strongly, taking the opening game after building an early lead, but the match swung sharply as Kjærsfeldt dominated the second game and recovered from a deficit in the decider to complete the comeback, according to olympics.com.

Elsewhere, Devika Sihag also exited in the second round, going down 21-16, 21-13 to China’s top seed Chen Yufei.

India’s only women’s singles win came from Ashmita Chaliha, who advanced with a 21-13, 21-16 victory over Malaysia’s Goh Jin Wei.

In men’s doubles, the pair of MR Arjun and Hariharan Amsakarunan were knocked out 21-14, 21-15 by China’s Hu Keyuan and Lin Xiangyi.

India’s mixed doubles campaign also ended as Sathwik Reddy Kanapuram and Radhika Sharma lost 21-12, 27-25 to the American duo Presley Smith and Jennie Gai.

UPSC adds Bhubaneswar centre for civil services prelims 2026 to ease exam congestion

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New Delhi: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has expanded its Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination-2026 centre network by adding three new centres at Bhubaneswar, Kanpur, and Meerut in an effort to reduce congestion at existing centres and improve accessibility for candidates across the country.

The expansion increases the total number of preliminary examination centres from 80 to 83, according to an official statement.

The Bhubaneswar centre has significantly reduced pressure on the existing Cuttack centre, with the Commission stating that 10,656 candidates have opted for the new centre, easing the burden on adjoining locations for the examination.

After Odisha, the Kanpur centre has helped reduce pressure on Lucknow with 6,938 applications, while the Meerut centre has eased dependence on Ghaziabad with 5,902 candidates choosing the facility.

The Commission has stated that nearly 23,000 candidates have applied across the three newly added centres, helping distribute examination load more evenly.

UPSC has received a total of 8,19,372 applications for the Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination-2026 this year.

It has further stated that it remains committed to inclusivity for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD), noting that nearly 805 PwBD candidates in the Delhi region were allotted their preferred centres through additional capacity creation where required.

The Commission has also indicated that a dropdown option in the application form allows candidates to indicate nearby preferred cities, which will help identify future examination centres.

UPSC has said that these steps are aimed at making the examination process more accessible, efficient, and balanced while maintaining fairness and transparency.

Minister Suresh Pujari inaugurates 94 development projects worth Rs 26 crore in Jharsuguda

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Bhubaneswar: A series of development projects aimed at strengthening urban infrastructure and boosting local growth were inaugurated on Thursday in Brajarajnagar, Jharsuguda district, by Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari.

The event marked the foundation laying and inauguration of multiple civic works under Brajarajnagar Municipality, focusing on improving public facilities, infrastructure, and employment generation in the region.

A total of 82 new projects worth Rs 23.48 crore were launched, along with the inauguration of 12 completed projects valued at Rs 2.77 crore, which were dedicated to the public.

Speaking at the event, the minister said the state government remains committed to the overall development of Brajarajnagar. He noted that the new projects would strengthen urban infrastructure and also create employment opportunities for local youth.

He further stated that upcoming developments, such as shopping complexes and modern market spaces, would help stimulate the local economy and support self-reliance among young people. An advanced roadside shelter facility is also planned along the national highway for the safety and convenience of travellers and transport workers.

Among the completed works are a drama pandal at Goal Chowk, yoga infrastructure at Eco Park, renovation of Shaheed Smriti and Madhusudan Chowk, and a school building with additional classrooms.

Several community development projects were also supported through MP Local Area Development funds, including community centres at Lamtibahal and Power House Pada.

Major foundation-laid projects include a modern meat market near GM Complex, a new library near Women’s College, a community hall at Lamtibahal, and a shopping complex near Tunnel Road.

The plan also includes focused development of the Telenpali area, with works such as community sheds, halls, ground development, and pond renovation undertaken under DMF funding.

Officials also revealed that Brajarajnagar Municipality has proposed a broader development plan worth ₹36 crore for the financial year 2026–27.

Odisha Police ramps up security, crowd management for Puri Rath Yatra 2026

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Bhubaneswar: A high-level review meeting was held at the State Police Headquarters in Cuttack on Thursday under the chairmanship of Director General of Police (DGP) Yogesh Bahadur Khurania to assess preparations for the world-famous Puri Rath Yatra 2026, scheduled to be held on July 16.

The Odisha Police has begun extensive planning to ensure smooth, secure, and well-coordinated arrangements for the annual mega festival, which attracts lakhs of devotees from across India and abroad.

During the meeting, the DGP directed senior officers to strengthen security deployment, crowd control mechanisms, and coordination at all levels. He emphasised strict monitoring of arrangements to avoid any operational gaps during the festival period.

A detailed schedule of key rituals associated with the Shri Jagannath Temple was also reviewed. The important events include Debasnana Purnima on June 29, Nabajoubana Darshan on July 14, Rath Yatra on July 16, Hera Panchami on July 20, Sandhya Darshan on July 23, Bahuda Yatra on July 24, Suna Besha on July 25, Adharapana on July 26, and Niladri Bije on July 27.

Given the expected large turnout, authorities have planned several new crowd management and safety measures. Eight additional parking zones have been identified to ease traffic congestion, while special clearance teams will be deployed ahead of the chariots to ensure smooth movement during the Rath Yatra.

Crack teams will be positioned at overcrowded locations, and additional CCTV cameras will be installed at key points across Puri for enhanced surveillance. Traffic regulation will be supported through road dividers, delineators, and designated traffic zones.

Security checks will be intensified across hotels and lodges, and special drives will be conducted in all police station jurisdictions to monitor criminal activity. Authorities have also planned to identify habitual offenders and display their details on LED screens at railway stations and bus stands.

Coastal security will be strengthened with intensified patrolling and temporary police outposts. Railway Police will coordinate with RPF to ensure security at Puri, Bhubaneswar, Khurda, and Jatni railway stations.

Additional deployment includes K-9 squads, NSG-trained Special Operations Group, Special Tactical Units, and vehicle-mounted security units near the temple. Special arrangements have also been planned to prevent stampede-like situations and ensure orderly darshan for devotees.

Emergency response coordination, disaster management planning, and inter-departmental synergy were also reviewed during the meeting.

Senior officers, including Crime Branch Director Binaytosh Mishra, Intelligence Director R.P. Koche, and several Additional DGPs, IGs, and DIGs attended the meeting in person and virtually.

PM Modi presents Pattachitra, filigree gifts to Norwegian Royal couple

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New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has showcased India’s cultural heritage during his visit to Norway by presenting two traditional artefacts from Odisha to the Norwegian Royal Couple, highlighting the state’s centuries-old artistic traditions on a global diplomatic stage.

According to a post shared by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on X, the PM gifted a palm leaf Pattachitra painting to Her Majesty Queen Sonja of Norway. The artwork, rooted in Odisha’s temple traditions, represents a long-standing form of devotional storytelling known for its intricate detailing and cultural symbolism.

To His Majesty King Harald V of Norway, Modi presented a silver sailboat crafted in the renowned Cuttack filigree tradition. The delicate silverwork, created by skilled artisans in Odisha, is known for its fine craftsmanship and is often associated with the state’s rich maritime and cultural heritage.

Majhi noted that the inclusion of Odisha’s art forms in a high-level diplomatic exchange reflects growing global recognition of India’s traditional craftsmanship. He described it as a moment of pride for artisans of the state whose work continues to preserve and promote ancient cultural legacies.

The statement further emphasized that the gesture underscores India’s emphasis on cultural diplomacy, where heritage and traditional arts are being showcased alongside international engagement.

“Odisha is deeply grateful to Hon’ble PM Modi for this gracious gesture, for choosing to carry the soul of our land onto the global stage and placing its living traditions in the hands of the world,” the CM noted.

North India scorches as heatwave intensifies, IMD issues fresh warning

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New Delhi: Large parts of north and central India continued to reel under an intense heatwave on Thursday, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning that severe heat conditions are likely to persist through the week, raising concerns over public health, electricity demand and worsening weather stress.

In its latest advisory, the IMD said heatwave to severe heatwave conditions are expected to continue across northwest and central India over the coming days, while eastern parts of the country are also likely to experience intense heat for at least the next five days. Authorities have urged residents to take precautions as temperatures remain significantly above normal in several regions.

Uttar Pradesh emerged as one of the worst-affected states, with Banda district recording the country’s highest temperature at 48°C on Wednesday, around 4.5 degrees above the seasonal average. Several cities across north India have also witnessed prolonged spells of extreme heat, with daytime temperatures remaining well above the 40°C mark.

Delhi remained under heatwave conditions for the second consecutive day, with temperatures touching nearly 46°C in some parts of the national capital. The Ridge weather station recorded 45.8°C, making it the hottest location in the city, while other monitoring stations reported temperatures hovering around 45°C.

The weather office has issued orange alerts in several regions, warning of heat-related illnesses and urging people to limit outdoor exposure during peak afternoon hours. According to IMD norms, a heatwave is declared when temperatures cross 40°C and remain substantially above normal levels.

Experts attributed the prolonged heat spell to the absence of significant weather systems capable of bringing rainfall or cooler winds to affected regions.

The impact of the heatwave is also being felt in India’s energy consumption patterns. With households increasingly relying on air-conditioners, coolers and fans, the country’s electricity demand has surged to unprecedented levels.

India’s peak power demand touched a new all-time high of 265.44 gigawatts (GW) on Wednesday afternoon, marking the third straight day of record-breaking electricity consumption. The latest figure surpassed Tuesday’s peak of 260.45 GW, which had itself overtaken Monday’s record of 257.37 GW, according to official data from the Ministry of Power.

Amid the worsening heat, the IMD has advised people to remain hydrated, avoid stepping outdoors during peak afternoon hours between 12 pm and 4 pm, wear light cotton clothing and consume water-rich foods to prevent dehydration. Special caution has also been recommended for children, senior citizens and people with pre-existing health conditions.

With no immediate respite in sight, weather officials have warned that several regions could continue to experience oppressive heat through the week, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses and putting additional pressure on power infrastructure

Delhi Airport issues Ebola advisory for international passengers

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New Delhi: The Airport Health Organization at Delhi Airport on Thursday issued a passenger health advisory in coordination with the Directorate General of Health Services, regarding Ebola disease awareness and screening measures for international travellers.

The advisory applies to passengers arriving from or transiting through countries reporting Ebola cases, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan, which have been identified as higher-risk regions.

Passengers are advised to watch for symptoms such as fever, weakness or fatigue, headache, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, sore throat, and unexplained bleeding. Individuals who have had direct contact with the blood or body fluids of a suspected or confirmed Ebola patient have been urged to report immediately to the Airport Health Officer or health desk before completing immigration clearance.

The advisory further states that any traveller developing symptoms within 21 days of arrival should seek immediate medical attention and inform healthcare providers about their recent travel history.

Authorities have requested full cooperation from passengers during health screening procedures in line with the International Health Regulations, emphasizing public safety and disease prevention protocols at airports.

The health notice is part of routine surveillance and preparedness measures by airport health authorities at Indira Gandhi International Airport to manage potential infectious disease risks linked to international travel.

Arunachal kiwi sector gets Rs 167 crore push under ‘Project Kiwi’

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New Delhi: Arunachal Pradesh’s kiwi sector is set for a major transformation with the launch of “Project Kiwi”, aimed at strengthening production, processing, and market connectivity for farmers under the USP initiative for the Ashtalakshmi States.

The initiative was launched by Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, along with Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu.

Valued at Rs 167 crore, the mission is designed to empower farmers by strengthening value chains, enhancing processing infrastructure, and improving market access for Arunachal’s kiwi produce. A major focus of the project is extending the shelf life of kiwis from 7–10 days to nearly 45 days, enabling the fruit to reach wider domestic and global markets, Scindia said in a post on X.

The initiative will also promote value addition through products such as freeze-dried kiwi, juice, and candy, ensuring greater value accrues directly to local communities and growers, he said.

Arunachal Pradesh is currently the largest kiwi-producing state in India, contributing nearly 50% of the country’s total production.

Speaking on the initiative, Khandu said he was glad to participate in the launch of the Kiwi Project as a USP of Arunachal Pradesh and highlighted that the programme will significantly strengthen the sector.

In a post on X, he noted that the project will support orchard rejuvenation, varietal replacement, and expansion of cultivation, while also addressing critical gaps in post-harvest management. This will be achieved by strengthening infrastructure, value addition systems, processing capacity, and market linkages for farmers.

The CM also extended congratulations to kiwi growers across the state and expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his focused approach towards sector-wise development in the North-Eastern region.

Odisha pushes investment drive with IPICOL review meeting

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Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has intensified its focus on industrial expansion and investment facilitation, with Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain chairing a high-level review meeting of the Industrial Promotion and Investment Corporation of Odisha Limited (IPICOL) in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday.

The meeting reviewed the status of ongoing industrial activities across the state, progress of grounded projects, and preparations for upcoming investment roadshows aimed at attracting fresh investments to Odisha.

Senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary Hemant Sharma and IPICOL Managing Director Aboli Naravane, participated in the discussions along with other senior functionaries of the corporation.

During the review, the minister asked sectoral nodal officers to adopt a more proactive, industry-oriented approach to ensure smoother project implementation and better investor support. He stressed the need to convert investment proposals into operational projects through faster coordination and efficient monitoring.

The discussions also focused on Odisha’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its Ease of Doing Business framework through digital initiatives and administrative reforms. Officials reviewed strategies related to data-driven investor outreach, district-level project monitoring, and global promotional campaigns aimed at positioning Odisha as a preferred investment destination.

In a post on X, Swain said: “I also stressed the implementation of a structured framework focused on data-driven investor targeting, robust project monitoring through district-level agencies, and strategic upcoming outreach events to firmly anchor Odisha as a major global investment destination.”

The state government is expected to hold a series of outreach programmes and investment roadshows in the coming months as part of its broader industrial growth strategy.