Intense Heatwave Grips Odisha: Mercury Soars, Thunderstorms Loom

Odisha continues to swelter under scorching temperatures as the mercury soared to 32°C and above in 14 locations across the state by 8:30 AM. Bhadrak emerged as the hottest spot, recording a blistering 35.6°C. The relentless heatwave persists, with 11 places experiencing temperatures surpassing 35°C before noon, with Balasore leading at a scorching 40.4°C closely followed by Bhubaneswar at 39.8°C. Paradoxical Weather Conditions Unfold In a peculiar twist, Odisha braces for contradictory weather phenomena. While 14 districts are under an orange alert for the impending heatwave, another 19 districts face…

IMD DG Discusses Advancements and Challenges in Weather Forecasting: Towards Enhanced Preparedness and Public Awareness

 Interviewer: Good afternoon, Mr. Mohapatra. Thank you for joining us today. To start, let’s delve into the recent advancements at the India Meteorological Department (IMD). It’s the first time in a decade the IMD has forecasted ‘above normal’ rainfall. Usually, IMD tends to be more conservative in the first long-range forecast. Does the IMD now have better tools? Mrutyunjay Mohapatra (IMD Director General): Absolutely. Over the years, we have significantly improved our forecasting capabilities. We’ve transitioned from relying solely on statistical models based on historical data to utilizing dynamical models.…

Elon Musk Delays India Trip, Eyes Visit Later This Year Amidst Tesla Commitments

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, Inc., has deferred his much-anticipated trip to India, originally planned to include a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Citing pressing commitments and heavy obligations at Tesla, Musk expressed his earnest desire to reschedule the visit for later this year. The postponed trip was expected to coincide with a significant announcement regarding Tesla’s entry into the South Asian market. Musk’s visit to India held significant promise, not only in terms of business but also in fostering bilateral ties and exploring opportunities in emerging sectors…

Allegations of Conspiracy: AAP Raises Concerns Over Plot for the ‘Slow Death’ of Arvind Kejriwal

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Saurabh Bhardwaj has made alarming claims suggesting a concerted effort aimed at the ‘slow death’ of  CM Arvind Kejriwal. These statements echo sentiments previously voiced by Atishi, who accused the BJP of orchestrating a plot to eliminate Kejriwal by allegedly withholding vital medical treatment. The plot thickened when it was disclosed that Kejriwal, currently under judicial custody, had petitioned the authorities at Tihar jail for access to insulin and regular medical consultations. The ED alleged that Kejriwal intentionally consumed foods high in sugar to elevate…

Congress Faces Backlash Amid Allegations of ‘Love Jihad’ in Wake of Daughter’s Tragic Murder

Congress Faces Backlash Amid Allegations of ‘Love Jihad’ in Wake of Daughter’s Tragic Murder Tragic Incident Unfolds: The heart-wrenching murder of Neha Hiremath, a 23-year-old student and daughter of a Karnataka corporator, has plunged the state into a state of shock and grief. Neha, a bright first-year student pursuing a Master of Computer Applications degree, met a tragic end when she was viciously stabbed seven times by Fayaz Khondunaik, a former classmate at her college in Hubbali. The brutal nature of the crime, coupled with its deeply personal implications, has reverberated…

Prof. Sukumar Mishra Assumes Directorship at IIT-Dhanbad, Pledging to Elevate Engineering Education and Research Excellence

In a significant development within India’s educational landscape, Professor Sukumar Mishra, hailing from Odisha, has assumed the esteemed position of Director at the Indian Institute of Technology, Dhanbad (IIT-Dhanbad). This appointment marks a pivotal moment not only for IIT-Dhanbad but also for the broader academic community, as Mishra brings with him a wealth of experience, a sterling reputation, and a profound commitment to advancing engineering education and research. Prior to his directorial role, Prof. Mishra held a distinguished position as a professor in the electrical engineering department at IIT-Delhi, where…

D Gukesh Creates Chess History: Youngest Finalist at World Chess Championship After Triumph in FIDE Candidates Chess Tournament 2024

In a momentous occasion that reverberated through the world of chess, D Gukesh, a 17-year-old chess prodigy hailing from Chennai, scripted an extraordinary chapter in the sport’s chronicles by clinching victory at the fiercely contested FIDE Candidates Chess Tournament 2024. With this remarkable achievement, Gukesh not only secured the prestigious title but also etched his name in the annals of chess history as the youngest player ever to advance to the final stage of the World Chess Championship, a feat previously attained only by the legendary Viswanathan Anand. The grand…

SC seeks clarification from EC on ‘complete count’ of VVPAT slips

The Supreme Court’s notice to the Election Commission regarding Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) highlights the importance of ensuring transparency and accountability in the electoral process. The VVPAT play a crucial role ,which generates a paper slip which can be viewed by the voter and the paper slip is kept in a sealed cover, which can be verified by the voter themselves and can be opened in case of a dispute. This move suggests that the Supreme Court is keen on addressing any concerns or discrepancies related to the use…

High turnout in Phase 1 of Lok Sabha Elections 2024 despite heat wave

Polling for the first phase of the General Elections 2024 recorded high voter turnout despite the heat wave. Polling remains largely peaceful with voters from various walks participating enthusiastically in a dazzling display of civic responsibility and pride. In phase 1 of General Elections 2024, polling has been completed for 10 States/UTs to elect 18th Lok Sabha along with polling for State Legislative Assemblies of Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. The Commission thanked voters of phase 1 and entire election machinery. Tentative figure of voter turnout across 21 States/UTs reported is…

Indian Railways operates Record Number of additional Trains in Summer Season 2024

To ensure the convenience of passengers and manage the anticipated surge in travel demand during summers, Indian Railways is operating a record-breaking 9111 trips during summer season. This marks a substantial rise compared to the summer of 2023, where a total of 6369 trips were offered. This translates to an increase of 2742 trips, demonstrating Indian Railways’ commitment to meeting passenger demands effectively. The additional trains have been meticulously planned to connect key destinations across the country, ensuring seamless travel on major railway routes. All zonal railways spread across India have geared up to operate…