July 1, 2026 - IndiaVerve

Odisha governemnt approves Rs 949 crore Jaydev Vihar-Nandankanan road upgrade

July 1, 2026 by India Verve Desk

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Wednesday approved a Rs 949.35-crore project to upgrade the Jaydev Vihar–Nandankanan Road corridor, including the construction of multiple flyovers, to improve traffic flow and strengthen connectivity between Bhubaneswar and Cuttack.

The Works Department has accorded administrative approval of Rs 949,35,04,000 for the project to improve the 9.5-km stretch from Kalinga Stadium Gate No. 4 to Raghunathpur Bridge.

The corridor will serve as a major arterial route connecting Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, facilitating smoother movement between residential neighbourhoods, institutional areas, commercial centres and business hubs.

The project aims to develop a safe, efficient, and future-ready urban transport corridor capable of handling current and projected traffic volumes. The project aims to develop a safe, efficient, and future-ready urban transport corridor capable of handling current and projected traffic volumes.

It will decongest the Jaydev Vihar–Nandankanan corridor through grade-separated junction improvements. An eight-lane main carriageway with service roads will enhance traffic capacity.

Dedicated pedestrian infrastructure will improve accessibility, while the project will also strengthen connectivity to Baranga and Cuttack. The initiative is expected to support Bhubaneswar’s long-term transportation and urban growth strategy.

According to the government, the proposed intervention will reduce traffic congestion, improve travel efficiency, enhance road safety and provide better pedestrian facilities, contributing to sustainable urban development.

The upgraded corridor will feature a cable-stayed flyover at Jaydev Vihar and flyovers at Kalinga Hospital Square, Damana Square, and KIIT Square. The project also includes development of Kalarahanga Junction, widening of the existing six-lane road into an eight-lane carriageway, a minor bridge, cross-drainage structures, drainage works, 5.5-metre-wide service roads, 7.5-metre-wide slip roads, roundabouts, junction improvements, road beautification, road markings, road furniture, road safety measures, parking bays and bridge works.

The government said the integrated corridor, with flyovers, underpasses, underground parking, subways and commercial development at key junctions, has been designed to decongest the entire stretch, eliminate conflict zones and minimise the risk of accidents. The project is also expected to reduce travel time to Baranga and Cuttack.

The project provides for a 10-year defect liability period, including maintenance. It also includes extensive avenue plantation along the entire corridor, with maintenance of the greenery for 10 years.

India, EU reaffirm commitment to sustainable ship recycling cooperation

July 1, 2026 by India Verve Desk

New Delhi: India and the EU have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in sustainable ship recycling.

The issue was discussed during a meeting between Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal and European Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy Jessika Roswall.

Both sides also expressed confidence in the progress made in facilitating the inclusion of Indian ship recycling facilities under the EU Ship Recycling Regulation.

The two sides reviewed the ongoing audit and compliance process for Indian ship recycling yards seeking recognition under the EU regulatory framework, according to an official statement.

Sonowal said more than 30 Indian ship recycling yards have applied for EU recognition, with six yards currently undergoing the compliance and approval process.

He added that three facilities have completed all required compliance procedures and are now eligible to apply for inclusion under the EU Ship Recycling Regulation framework.

“Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has emerged as the world’s leading ship recycling nation and is steadily strengthening its position as a global hub for safe, environmentally sustainable and responsible ship recycling,” the Union minister said.

According to the latest estimates by the UN Conference on Trade and Development, India’s share in global ship recycling increased from 30.1% in 2024 to 35.4% in 2025. The country recycled 2.99 million Gross Tons (GT) of ships in 2025, registering nearly 60% growth over 1.86 million GT recycled in 2024.

The minister said the government of India is facilitating the listing of Indian ship recycling yards through a transparent process of audits, inspections and regulatory compliance.

He noted that Indian facilities have made significant investments in infrastructure and operational upgrades to meet international standards, reflecting the country’s commitment to sustainable maritime development and responsible recycling.

Sonowal said Indian ship recycling facilities are supported by robust environmental infrastructure and worker welfare measures, including effluent treatment plants, scientific waste management systems, multi-speciality healthcare facilities supported by the Red Cross Society, and dedicated housing for workers.

He added that the government conducts both periodic and unannounced inspections to ensure high standards of environmental compliance, worker safety and operational transparency.

Highlighting India’s long-term vision, Sonowal said the country aims to recycle nearly 16,000 ships over the next decade and has committed USD 8 billion to support the growth of the shipbuilding and ship recycling sectors. He said increasing the number of internationally recognised Indian recycling facilities would strengthen the global circular economy, create employment and promote environmentally sound recycling practices.

Roswall welcomed the progress made and proposed the establishment of a Joint Working Group comprising representatives from the Ministry of Environment and other relevant ministries and organisations to facilitate coordination and support the next phase of the process.

She emphasised the importance of unannounced inspections in maintaining high standards of compliance, transparency and accountability, adding that the matter would be discussed with EU member states during the autumn session before any final decision is taken.

Roswall also expressed willingness to visit Indian ship recycling facilities after the consultation and assessment process is completed. She reaffirmed that the EU’s approach remains aligned with the outcomes of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement discussions and the provisions of the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships.

The discussions underscored the growing strategic partnership between India and the EU in advancing sustainable maritime practices.

Recognition of compliant Indian ship recycling facilities under the EU framework is expected to strengthen global recycling capacity, promote higher environmental and safety standards, and support responsible end-of-life management of ships while reinforcing resilient and sustainable global maritime supply chains.

CM Majhi releases books on Speaker Surama Padhy’s legislative journey

July 1, 2026 by India Verve Desk

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday released two books documenting the two-year constitutional and legislative journey of Odisha Legislative Assembly Speaker Surama Padhy and inaugurated a state-of-the-art physiotherapy centre at the Assembly premises.

The two publications, titled “Presiding with Purpose – Two-Years Legislative Journey of Speaker Surama Padhy” and “Two Years of Transformative Leadership Under Speaker Surama Padhy”, highlight the speaker’s leadership and initiatives during the past two years.

Speaking on the occasion, the CM praised Speaker Surama Padhy for her leadership in digitising the entire Assembly process while upholding the dignity of the House and strengthening democratic values.

In a post on X, he said the books capture the robust journey of Odisha’s democratic institutions and would serve as a valuable reference for researchers, intellectuals and the younger generation in the years to come.

Majhi also inaugurated a modern physiotherapy centre established by the Department of Health and Family Welfare at the Assembly premises.

The CM said the facility has been set up as a welfare initiative to safeguard the health of serving and former Members of the Legislative Assembly, their families and Assembly staff.

He noted that senior legislators, in particular, are expected to benefit significantly from the new centre.

Congratulating the Odisha Legislative Assembly Secretariat and its Research Branch, Majhi lauded their efforts in bringing out the publications and establishing the physiotherapy centre, describing both initiatives as significant contributions to public welfare and institutional development.

Odisha Police destroys illegal cannabis worth ₹1,911 crore in anti-drug drive

July 1, 2026 by IndiaVerve Staff

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Police has reported major achievements under its ‘Nishamukta Odisha’ (Drug-Free Odisha) campaign, destroying illegal cannabis cultivation worth an estimated ₹1,911 crore and seizing narcotic substances valued at over ₹2,331 crore as part of its intensified crackdown on drug trafficking across the state.

The achievements were highlighted during a programme held at the State Police Headquarters in Bhubaneswar in connection with the National Level Pre-Trial Drug Destruction Special Drive being conducted across the country from June 26 to July 10, 2026, under the directions of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB).

Addressing the programme, Director General of Police (DGP) Yogesh Bahadur Khurania said, “Building a drug-free, safe and empowered Odisha is the highest priority of Odisha Police. The campaign against drug trafficking and smuggling will be intensified further in the coming days.”

The DGP announced that the State Government has approved the establishment of four dedicated NDPS courts in Bhubaneswar, Khordha, Anugul and Sambalpur to ensure speedy trial of cases registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.

He also announced the formation of a dedicated Anti Narcotics Task Force (ANTF), headed by an officer of the rank of Additional Director General of Police (ADGP). The ANTF will have 10 operational units and 19 specialised intelligence units across the State. Odisha Police has also set a target of taking stringent action under the NDPS Act against at least 100 major drug traffickers every year and eliminating all identified drug hotspots.

The DGP said financial investigations are being prioritised to identify the masterminds and financiers behind illegal cannabis cultivation and dismantle the financial networks supporting drug trafficking.

According to Odisha Police, more than 63,720 acres of illegal cannabis cultivation, valued at approximately ₹1,911 crore, was destroyed across the State between July 2024 and March 2026.

During the same period, police registered 2,445 NDPS cases, seized 421 tonnes of cannabis worth an estimated ₹2,106 crore and arrested 3,502 accused persons.

Koraput Police also achieved a significant breakthrough by busting an illegal cannabis oil manufacturing unit. During the operation, police seized around 1,800 litres of cannabis oil valued at approximately ₹225 crore, along with cannabis worth about ₹5 crore. Four key accused linked to the racket were arrested from Kerala.

In another operation, the Special Task Force (STF) arrested two active members of an interstate drug trafficking network operating in Kandhamal, Boudh, Sonepur and neighbouring states.

As part of its awareness campaign, anti-drug pledge programmes were organised in more than 550 police stations across all 35 police districts. The initiative saw the participation of over 25,000 citizens, including 4,882 students and 337 teachers, who pledged to support the creation of a drug-free society.

Odisha Police has also planned to destroy about 80 tonnes of seized cannabis, 11.4 kg of brown sugar and 3,638 bottles of cough syrup, collectively valued at around ₹410 crore, at seven authorised incineration facilities located in Khordha, Anugul, Baleswar, Ganjam, Balangir, Koraput and Sundargarh. Since the launch of the special drive, 36 tonnes of cannabis has already been destroyed, while the remaining seized narcotics will be disposed of in phases following due legal procedures.

Reiterating Odisha Police’s resolve, DGP Khurania said, “The fight against drug trafficking, smuggling and narcotics mafias will become even more intense in the coming days.”

“There will be no leniency towards anyone violating the law. Through coordinated action, advanced technology, public participation and strong determination, Odisha Police remains committed to building a drug-free, safe and empowered Odisha,” he added.

Urban local bodies across Odisha put on high alert amid heavy monsoon rains

July 1, 2026 by IndiaVerve Staff

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Government has placed all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across the State on high alert following continuous monsoon rains and the possibility of urban flooding and waterlogging in several areas.

Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra has directed all Municipal Corporations, Municipalities and Notified Area Councils to remain fully prepared and ensure immediate response to any rain-related emergencies.

“Protection of citizens and uninterrupted delivery of civic services during the monsoon season is our top priority. All Urban Local Bodies must remain fully prepared and respond swiftly to any emergency situation,” the Minister said while speaking to the media.

Following the Minister’s directions, the Housing and Urban Development Department has issued an advisory to all ULBs, instructing them to take preventive and precautionary measures to avoid urban flooding and waterlogging, particularly in identified hotspots and low-lying areas vulnerable to inundation.

The advisory directs Urban Local Bodies to maintain round-the-clock monitoring of the situation and keep their Rapid Action Teams (RATs) fully deployed and ready for immediate response.

Municipal officers, engineers and sanitation personnel have been instructed to carry out intensive field inspections and promptly address issues such as waterlogging, blocked drains, overflowing sewers, fallen trees and other civic emergencies.

The Department has also asked ULBs to ensure that pumps, dewatering equipment, machinery and emergency response systems remain fully operational. It has emphasised continuous surveillance of vulnerable locations and close coordination with district administrations, disaster management authorities and other line departments to facilitate timely and effective action.

To strengthen communication with citizens during the monsoon, the State’s urban grievance redressal helpline, Sahar Sathi (1929), has been fully activated. Citizens can report incidents of waterlogging, drainage problems and other civic emergencies through the helpline for immediate action by the concerned Urban Local Bodies.

Reiterating the Government’s commitment to citizen safety and resilient urban management, Dr. Mahapatra stressed the need for advance planning, proactive intervention and coordinated efforts by all agencies to minimise the impact of heavy rainfall.

The Housing and Urban Development Department said it is closely monitoring the situation across the State and will extend all necessary support to Urban Local Bodies to effectively manage monsoon-related challenges while ensuring the safety, convenience and well-being of urban residents.

India-Japan JV green ammonia project in Odisha gets ministries’ nod

July 1, 2026 by Deepak Acharya

Bhubaneswar: In a major step towards bolstering India-Japan collaboration on energy transition, the green ammonia Joint Venture (JV) between India’s ACME Group and Japan’s IHI Corporation will establish a low-carbon ammonia manufacturing project in Gopalpur, Odisha.

According to ACME, a renewable energy company, the project is expected to produce 405,000 Tonnes Per Annum (TPA) of ammonia and has been certified under Japan’s price gap support programme by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), in accordance with the Hydrogen Society Promotion Act.

According to the companies, the project was selected under Japan’s clean hydrogen Contract for Difference subsidy programme, with price support for 228,000 TPA over 25 years starting in September 2030.

In addition, 177,000 TPA of the project’s capacity has been earmarked under Japan’s Long-Term Decarbonized Power Source Auction (LTDA). The project is expected to be commissioned by July 2030.

IHI Corporation announced that it will offtake the ammonia produced by the project and supply it to seven companies in Japan. These companies will use the ammonia as fuel for power generation and as feedstock for chemical and other industrial applications. The project is expected to help reduce carbon emissions in Japan’s power and industrial sectors.

Meanwhile, ACME Group has also started another green ammonia project in Paradip, Odisha, with a production capacity of 800,000 TPA, scheduled for commissioning by 2029.

The renewable energy company has already signed a Green Ammonia Purchase Agreement with the Solar Energy Corporation of India for 370,000 TPA. A further 83,000 TPA has also been awarded under Japan’s LTDA programme for supplies to Japan.

FIFA World Cup: Mexico, France, Norway qualify for next round

July 1, 2026 by Deepak Acharya

Co-hosts Mexico qualified for the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 following a convincing 2-0 win over Ecuador.

Julián Quiñones’ stunning goal put Mexico ahead in the 22nd minute at Mexico City Stadium, and nine minutes later, Raúl Jiménez doubled the lead for the co-hosts with a superb strike.

Ecuador’s problems went from bad to worse deep into stoppage time when Hincapié received a straight red card for covering his mouth during an exchange with Mexican striker Santiago Giménez.

The Mexican side will meet the winner of the England-DR Congo clash on July 5.

Earlier, Kylian Mbappé became the second all-time leading scorer in FIFA World Cup history as France eased past Sweden 3-0 at New York New Jersey Stadium to book their place in the Round of 16.

Mbappé opened the scoring for France in the 45th minute after a few earlier efforts had gone in vain.

His second goal in the 74th minute took his World Cup tally to 18 goals, only one behind Lionel Messi.

Bradley Barcola found the net in the 53rd minute as Les Bleus maintained their perfect start to the World Cup.

France will next face Paraguay in the Round of 16 at Philadelphia Stadium on July 4.

Elsewhere, Erling Haaland helped Norway qualify for the last 16 with the winning goal against Côte d’Ivoire.

Norway left winger Antonio Nusa curled the ball into the far corner in the 39th minute to give his side a 1-0 lead.

Côte d’Ivoire pulled one back through Amad Diallo’s magnificent goal in the 74th minute, but Haaland wrapped up the victory for Norway with a simple finish in the 86th minute.

UPI goes live in Greece as Piyush Goyal strengthens Indo-Greek economic ties

July 1, 2026 by India Verve Desk

New Delhi: Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal witnessed the launch of UPI services in Greece on Tuesday, describing it as another major milestone in the global expansion of India’s digital payment ecosystem during his official visit aimed at strengthening India-Greece economic cooperation.

A live demonstration of the Eurobank-NIPL partnership at Eurobank headquarters in Athens marked the launch. Goyal attended the event along with Eurobank CEO Fokion Karavias and Fairfax Digital Services CEO Sanjay Tugnait, according to an official statement.

Speaking on the occasion, Goyal said the launch of UPI services in Greece would enable eligible customers to transfer money instantly, securely and seamlessly while significantly reducing transaction costs compared to conventional money transfer methods.

He said the growing global acceptance of UPI reflects the trust in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of building technology-led solutions that create value beyond borders and deepen partnerships for shared growth and prosperity.

As part of his visit, Goyal held a meeting with Greece’s Minister of Economy and Finance, Kyriakos Pierrakakis. The two leaders discussed ways to strengthen bilateral economic ties through greater cooperation in financial services, fintech, digital payments and emerging technologies. They also explored opportunities for deeper collaboration between institutions and businesses of both countries.

The Union minister also met Greece’s Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, Christos Dimas. Their discussions focused on expanding cooperation in infrastructure, transport connectivity, the maritime sector, aviation and sustainable mobility.

Goyal said both sides looked forward to advancing deeper collaboration to build resilient supply chains and further strengthen connectivity between India and Europe.

The Union minister is leading a delegation of senior business leaders and government officials to Greece to advance bilateral economic cooperation and deepen commercial partnerships. His visit featured a series of high-level engagements, reflecting the shared commitment of India and Greece to strengthen economic and trade relations further.

Odisha governor urges ORS trainees to strengthen welfare delivery

July 1, 2026 by India Verve Desk

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati on Tuesday urged Odisha Revenue Service (ORS) 2023 batch trainee officers to gain comprehensive knowledge of central and state welfare schemes and act as an effective bridge between the government and the public to improve service delivery.

Addressing 71 trainees of the Revenue Officers’ Training Institute (ROTI) at New Abhishek Hall in Lok Bhawan, the governor said officers should remain well informed about government policies and understand ground-level realities, irrespective of their assigned duties.

He said this would ensure effective implementation of welfare programmes and help eligible beneficiaries receive government support.

The governor appreciated the compendium of government schemes prepared by ROTI and advised the trainees to study key welfare initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, Mukhyamantri Krushi Udyog Yojana, and Mukhyamantri Kamadhenu Yojana.

He said well-informed officers would strengthen public service delivery and ensure welfare benefits reach all eligible citizens. The governor also encouraged the trainees to enrol in applicable social security schemes and motivate more people to join them.

Speaking on the country’s economic challenges, Dr. Kambhampati referred to geopolitical tensions in West Asia and their impact on crude oil imports and foreign exchange reserves.

He further said India spends a significant portion of its foreign exchange on oil imports and added that behavioural changes at the individual level could help reduce financial pressure.

The governor urged the trainee officers to reduce dependence on petrol and diesel vehicles and gradually adopt electric mobility. He noted that his official convoy has been using an electric vehicle for nearly a year.

Highlighting clean energy initiatives, he spoke about integrating electric mobility with renewable energy through the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, rooftop solar systems and EV charging infrastructure.

He said solar panels installed at multiple locations in Lok Bhawan generate 635 kilowatts of solar power and appreciated ROTI for meeting around 40% of its energy requirement through solar energy.

Recalling the lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic, the governor said India had converted challenges into opportunities through self-reliance, innovation and digital adoption. He also advised people to exercise caution on discretionary spending, including gold purchases and foreign travel, to help reduce pressure on the country’s foreign exchange reserves.

On the occasion, Governor’s Commissioner-cum-Secretary Dr. Roopa Roshan Sahu delivered the welcome address, while ROTI Director Diganta Rautray highlighted the institute’s activities.