July 2, 2026 - IndiaVerve

Odisha govt plans Laxmi Purana Corridor

July 2, 2026 by India Verve Desk

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Tourism Department on Thursday organised a national seminar titled “Shakti Bandana ra Mahagatha – Balaram Das’s Laxmi Purana” at the Mission Shakti Bhawan auditorium in Bhubaneswar.

The event highlighted the literary, cultural, and social significance of the Laxmi Purana and its message of women’s empowerment and social equality.

Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Women & Child Development, Mission Shakti and Tourism, Pravati Parida, inaugurated the seminar as the chief guest.

Addressing the gathering, Parida said the Laxmi Purana is not merely a religious text but a symbol of social revolution. She said true prosperity is built on justice, equality, hard work, self-respect, and dignity, and not just wealth.

She also announced that the Tourism Department has prepared a blueprint for the proposed Laxmi Purana Corridor at Balaram Das’ Samadhi Pitha. The project aims to showcase Odisha’s cultural heritage, traditions, and philosophy to the world.

Law, Public Works and Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan also attended the event as the guest of honour. He said the Laxmi Purana is not only an invocation to Goddess Laxmi but also a pathway to honouring women.

He praised the Tourism Department’s initiative to promote the literary work globally.

A conceptual video of the proposed Laxmi Purana Corridor at Begunia village under Gop Block was screened during the programme.

The seminar featured discussions by scholars, researchers, and cultural personalities on the relevance of the Laxmi Purana in promoting gender equality and social justice.

The speakers included Dr. Bidyutlata Mohanty, Asit Mohanty, Gouranga Charan Das, Gita Das, Namita Agarwal, Aditya Chandra Das, Sucheta Priyabadini, Aliva Mohanty and Jayanti Dora.

Among those present were Bijay Ketan Upadhyay, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Department of Odia Language, Literature and Culture, Mission Shakti Director Dr. Monica Priyadarshini, and Tourism Director Deepankar Mohapatra.

The programme concluded with Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida felicitating the participating delegates.

CPET 2026 result declared; 53,901 appear in Odisha PG entrance test

July 2, 2026 by India Verve Desk

Bhubaneswar: The Higher Education Department on Thursday declared the results of the Common PG Entrance Test (CPET) 2026 for admission to postgraduate programmes in Odisha for the 2026-27 academic session.

Candidates who appeared for the entrance examination can check their results on the Student Academic Management System (SAMS) portal.

According to the department, a total of 58,613 candidates had registered for CPET 2026, while 53,901 appeared for the examination. The entrance test was conducted for admission to 50 postgraduate programmes offered by Higher Education Institutions across the state.

The department said 32,309 postgraduate seats are available in 132 Higher Education Institutions under its administrative control for the 2026-27 academic session.

Admissions to postgraduate programmes will be carried out based on the merit secured by candidates in CPET 2026.

The Department said the detailed admission schedule for postgraduate programmes will be announced soon on the SAMS portal.

Jio tops download speed in Odisha’s Ganjam, Gajapati and Rayagada

July 2, 2026 by India Verve Desk

Bhubaneswar: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released the findings of its Independent Drive Test (IDT) conducted across Ganjam, Gajapati and Rayagada districts in Odisha. The assessment evaluated the real-time quality of mobile network services provided by telecom operators to consumers across the three districts.

The drive tests were conducted from April 23 to 25, 2026, covering 446 km of city routes and eight hotspot locations. The exercise was carried out by TRAI’s appointed agency under the supervision of the TRAI Regional Office, Hyderabad.

The IDT assessed the performance of Bharti Airtel, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited (RJIL), and Vodafone Idea Limited. It evaluated key Quality of Service parameters, including coverage, call drop rate, call setup success rate, call setup time, speech quality, call silence, and mobile data download and upload speeds, according to an official statement.

According to the report, RJIL recorded the highest average download speed among all operators. It achieved an average download speed of 186.07 Mbps on its 5G and 4G networks. Bharti Airtel followed with 81.74 Mbps, while Vodafone Idea recorded 17.91 Mbps. BSNL, tested on its 3G network, registered an average download speed of 6.71 Mbps.

For upload performance, Bharti Airtel led with an average upload speed of 18.09 Mbps on its 5G and 4G networks. RJIL recorded 13.46 Mbps, Vodafone Idea 9.63 Mbps, and BSNL 3.54 Mbps.

The report also assessed network coverage across the test routes. It recorded coverage gaps and areas with limited or no coverage for all four telecom operators.

For voice services, the regulator measured dropped calls and call silence instances. During the drive tests, Bharti Airtel recorded 10 dropped calls out of 325 successfully established calls, BSNL 33 out of 308, RJIL 7 out of 406, while Vodafone Idea recorded no dropped calls out of 156 successfully established calls.

The report also noted call silence instances lasting more than three seconds. Bharti Airtel recorded 23 such instances out of 340 established calls, BSNL 14 out of 212, RJIL 14 out of 385, and Vodafone Idea 17 out of 137.

The drive tests covered several towns and cities across the three districts – Chatrapur, Arjyapalli, Gopalpur, Brahmapur, Chikiti, Patrapur, Jarada, Pudamari, Dengausta, Digapahandi, Uppalada, Paralakhemundi, Kurigam, Kashinagar, Birikota, Mohana, Chandragiri, Jeerango, Mahendragada, Luhagudi, Gunupur, Kujendri, Gumuda, Padmapur, Akhusingi and Kenduguda.

Testing was also conducted at eight hotspot locations, including Ganjam Railway Station, Gopalpur Beach, Gunupur Bus Stand, Market Street in Paralakhemundi, Mohana Market, Paralakhemundi Bus Stand, R Udayagiri Market, and Rayagada Market.

TRAI said the purpose of the IDT is to verify the actual quality of mobile network services experienced by consumers and encourage telecom service providers to improve their networks. It added that the findings represent the performance of operators only on the tested routes and at the time the drive tests were conducted.

The findings have been shared with the respective telecom service providers for further necessary action.

Odisha signs ₹1.10 lakh crore aluminium project MoU with UAE’s IHC Group

July 2, 2026July 2, 2026 by IndiaVerve Staff

Mega integrated aluminium project to generate over 53,500 jobs as Odisha strengthens its industrial growth agenda under the ‘Samruddha Odisha 2036’ vision.

Bhubaneswar: In a major boost to Odisha’s industrial ambitions, the State Government on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UAE-based International Holding Company (IHC) Group for setting up a mega integrated aluminium project involving an investment of approximately ₹1.10 lakh crore.

The MoU, signed between the Industrial Promotion and Investment Corporation of Odisha (IPICOL) and the IHC Group at Lok Seva Bhawan in Bhubaneswar, is expected to attract an investment of around USD 11.5 billion and create more than 53,500 direct and indirect employment opportunities in the state.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who attended the signing ceremony, described the agreement as a historic milestone in Odisha’s industrial journey and said it would significantly contribute to the State Government’s vision of building a prosperous, modern, inclusive and industrially advanced Odisha by 2036.

He said the project would combine Odisha’s abundant natural resources and skilled workforce with the capital and technological expertise of the Middle East, paving the way for a long-term strategic partnership.

The proposed project will include bauxite mining, alumina refining, aluminium smelting, a captive power plant, downstream aluminium manufacturing facilities and supporting infrastructure.

According to the Chief Minister, the project is expected to generate around 35,000 jobs during the construction phase and another 18,500 employment opportunities after it becomes operational, taking the total employment potential to over 53,500.

Majhi said the government’s priority is to promote value addition to Odisha’s mineral resources instead of merely exporting raw materials, while creating sustainable employment opportunities for the state’s youth.

Highlighting the global shift towards environmentally sustainable industrialisation, he said the project would strengthen Odisha’s efforts to emerge as a leader in green metals and environmentally responsible manufacturing.

The Chief Minister also said the State Government remains committed to achieving the goals of “Samruddha Odisha 2036” and “Viksit Bharat 2047”. He added that Odisha aims to emerge as a leading industrial destination by 2036, coinciding with the centenary year of the state’s formation.

Beyond the aluminium project, Majhi said Odisha would also explore collaboration with the IHC Group in emerging sectors such as research and development, metallurgy, digital systems and Global Capability Centres (GCCs). He assured the company of timely support for land, water, power, logistics and statutory approvals required for the project.

Peter Abraham, Chief Strategic Officer of the IHC Group, said the agreement would open a new chapter in India-UAE relations and represents a long-term partnership for Odisha’s sustainable development rather than just a business investment. He said the collaboration could expand into technology, infrastructure, financial services and consumer services in the future.

Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd Managing Director Karan Adani also addressed the gathering and highlighted Odisha’s rich mineral resources and industrial potential. He said the state’s vast bauxite reserves and iron ore resources, coupled with the government’s industrial policies, have transformed Odisha from a supplier of raw materials into a value-added manufacturing hub.

The event was attended by Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain, Chief Secretary Anu Garg, senior executives of the IHC Group, officials of the Odisha Government, industry leaders and representatives of the media.

PM Modi, Japan PM Takaichi hold annual summit in New Delhi

July 2, 2026 by India Verve Desk

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Japanese counterpart Sanae Takaichi are holding bilateral talks in New Delhi on Thursday as part of the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit, with both countries expected to deepen cooperation across strategic, economic and regional priorities.

The summit comes during Prime Minister Takaichi’s first official visit to India from July 1 to 3 and is expected to review the full spectrum of the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership. Several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) are likely to be exchanged following the talks.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Takaichi was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan, where Prime Minister Modi received the visiting leader. Marching contingents drawn from the Army, Navy and Air Force, along with a military band, presented a ceremonial guard of honour.

Following the ceremony, Takaichi, accompanied by Prime Minister Modi, met External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and other members of the Union Council of Ministers. The ministers welcomed the Japanese Prime Minister with folded hands, a gesture she reciprocated before the two leaders posed for photographs.

Prime Minister Takaichi arrived in New Delhi on Wednesday on a three-day visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi.

Welcoming her on social media, Modi wrote, “A very warm welcome to India, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. We are delighted to host you on your first visit to India, and I look forward to our wide-ranging discussions tomorrow that will further deepen the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership. Through our joint efforts, we will continue to advance peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.”

The India-Japan Annual Summit remains the principal platform guiding the strategic partnership between the two countries. The two leaders most recently interacted during the G7 Summit in France, having earlier met on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg last November.

Economic security has emerged as an increasingly important pillar of bilateral cooperation. During the first India-Japan Economic Security Dialogue held in Tokyo in November 2024, both countries identified semiconductors, critical minerals, pharmaceuticals, clean energy, and information and communication technology as priority sectors for strategic collaboration.

The outcome of Thursday’s summit is expected to further strengthen cooperation in these sectors while reinforcing the two countries’ shared commitment to peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.

Nine Odia hockey players named in India junior squad for Belgium tour

July 2, 2026 by Deepak Acharya

Bhubaneswar: A total of nine players from Odisha have been selected for the upcoming Indian Junior (U-21) Men’s Hockey team tour of Belgium.

During the tour, scheduled from July 5 to 18, the 22-member team will take on four European giants – Austria, Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands.

The players are Ritik Lakra, Vivek Lakra, Anmol Ekka, Rohit Kullu, Aryan Xess, Prasant Barla, Sanjit Tirkey, Adrohit Ekka and Mukesh Toppo.

This is the first time the Indian junior team will showcase its prowess under newly appointed Coach Frederic Soyez, according to Hockey India.

Anmol Ekka will lead the team, while the midfield will be managed by Adrohit Ekka, Harpal, Jeetpal, Mukesh Toppo, Mannu Malik and Ritik Lakra.

Commenting on the squad announcement, Soyez said: “I expect this tour to help us progress on several levels. First, in terms of our game, by improving our connections, our tactical discipline, and our efficiency in key moments. Then, on the human side, by strengthening unity and confidence within the group. Finally, I hope this tour will give the players a better understanding of the demands of top-level international hockey and of what we need to put in place to perform consistently over time.”

India will kick off their campaign against Austria on July 7 and 8, while the team will meet hosts Belgium on July 10. After two days of rest, the team will take on Germany and Belgium on July 13 and 14, respectively.

The Indian team will play its last match against the Netherlands on July 17.

The upcoming tour is expected to serve as a key preparatory phase ahead of the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior Asia Cup, which will take place later this year.

The team: Goalkeepers: Vivek Lakra, Kunal Tewatia

Defenders: Anmol Ekka (C), Rohit Kullu, Chirag, Ravinder, Prasant Barla, Sanjit Tirkey, V. Manimaran

Midfielders: Adrohit Ekka, Harpal, Jeetpal, Mukesh Toppo, Mannu Malik, Ritik Lakra

Forwards: Ajeet Yadav, Prabhdeep Singh, Arjun Hargude, Aryan Xess, Lovenoor Singh, Mohd. Konain Dad, Gurusewak Singh

FIFA World Cup: Harry Kane rescue England

July 2, 2026 by Deepak Acharya

Harry Kane rescued England with a brace as the Three Lions came from behind to beat DR Congo 2-1 and reach the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Atlanta.

Brian Cipenga’s seventh-minute goal stunned England, who had to wait until Kane found the equaliser in the 75th minute.

The England captain netted the winner in the 86th minute with a spectacular strike, sending his side into the next round.

England will face co-hosts Mexico in the Round of 16 at Mexico City Stadium on July 5.

Meanwhile, Belgium secured a place in the Round of 16 following a hard-fought 3-2 extra-time win over Senegal.

Habib Diarra opened the scoring for Senegal in the 25th minute, while Ismaila Sarr doubled the lead in the 51st minute, thanks to centre-back Moussa Niakhaté’s accurate long pass.

Belgium appeared to be heading home, but substitute Romelu Lukaku reduced the deficit in the 86th minute.

Three minutes later, Youri Tielemans levelled the scores for the Red Devils.

The match looked to be heading towards a penalty shootout, but Tielemans was brought down inside the penalty box.

He comfortably converted the penalty following a VAR review to send Belgium into the next round.

Belgium will take on the USA in the Round of 16 on July 6.

Co-hosts USA beat Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 at San Francisco Bay Arena Stadium.

Folarin Balogun put the USA ahead in the 45th minute, but he was later shown a straight red card for a high challenge.

Malik Tillman’s 82nd-minute free-kick was enough for the Stars and Stripes to qualify for the next round.

MT Sanmar Herald reaches Paradip Port safely

July 2, 2026 by India Verve Desk

Bhubaneswar: The oil tanker MT Sanmar Herald has safely arrived at Paradip Port and berthed at SPM-I, completing an extraordinary voyage through one of the most challenging geopolitical situations in recent history.

After loading Basrah Medium and Basrah Heavy crude oil in Iraq, the vessel encountered hostilities in the Middle East. It operated under continuous coordination with the Indian Navy and faced prolonged delays and an attempted transit through the Strait of Hormuz, the Port said in a post on X.

During the voyage, the tanker sustained shrapnel damage to its bridge in a hostile engagement. Despite the difficult conditions, the Master and crew displayed exceptional professionalism, resilience and commitment to safety throughout the mission.

Following the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the vessel resumed its voyage and reached Paradip safely.

All officers and crew members remained safe during the entire journey.

On arrival, representatives of the Paradip Port Authority and SERPL, including the Harbour Master, welcomed the Master and crew with bouquets and mementoes in recognition of their courage and dedication.

The Paradip Port Authority praised the unwavering spirit of seafarers, saying their dedication keeps global trade moving even in the most challenging circumstances.

VB-G RAM G Act comes into force, rural job guarantee extended to 125 days

July 2, 2026July 2, 2026 by India Verve Desk

New Delhi: The Centre on Wednesday brought the Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Aajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Act, 2025 into force across the country, giving eligible rural households a statutory right to 125 days of guaranteed wage employment.

The new law replaces the earlier 100-day guarantee and aims to strengthen rural livelihoods while improving transparency, accountability and the quality of employment generation.

It also focuses on creating durable rural assets, conserving natural resources, boosting agricultural productivity, promoting livelihoods, and supporting women-led development, according to an official statement.

Along with the rollout of the Act, the government notified revised wage rates for all states, Union Territories, and notified wage areas. Under the new rates, no daily wage will be below Rs 300 anywhere in the country.

The national average notified wage has increased from Rs 298.8 per day to Rs 327.4 per day, marking an average hike of more than 10%. States including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh have recorded wage increases ranging between 15 and 25%.

To support the implementation of the Act, the Centre has released an interim allocation of Rs 95,692.31 crore to states and Union Territories. The funds will be used to ensure uninterrupted employment generation, timely wage payments, and the execution of development works.

Union Rural Development and Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan described the rollout as a historic moment for rural India. He said the Act was a transformative step under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and would provide dignity, livelihood security and greater employment opportunities to millions of rural workers.

Chouhan said eligible rural families would now receive a statutory guarantee of 125 days of employment instead of 100 days. He added that the Centre and states had completed all administrative, financial, and technical preparations for the smooth implementation of the new law.

He said the Act would help generate new livelihood opportunities, create durable rural infrastructure, strengthen women’s empowerment, and accelerate the vision of an Atmanirbhar and Viksit Rural India.

The national launch programme of the VB-G RAM G Act, 2025, will be held on July 2 at Mukkavaripalle village in Obulavaripalle Mandal of Tirupati district, Andhra Pradesh.

The event will be attended by Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister Konidela Pawan Kalyan, Minister of State Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, Minister of State Kamlesh Paswan and other dignitaries.

The programme will include the formal launch of the scheme, distribution of Rural Employment Guarantee Cards to beneficiaries, launch of the VB-G RAM G software platform, release of key publications, interaction with beneficiaries and the inauguration of several initiatives to support the implementation of the Act.