World Lion Day is observed every year on August 10 to raise awareness about the protection and conservation of lions. Initiated in 2013, the day highlights the declining population of African and Asiatic lions due to climate change, illegal hunting, and habitat loss. Currently, fewer than 25,000 lions remain globally. In India, the Gujarat forest department has launched special projects for the conservation of Asiatic lions in the Gir sanctuary to maintain ecological balance. https://www.dharitri.com/world-lion-day-awareness-is-essential-for-protection/

Three people were injured when a passenger bus rammed into an Ertiga car from behind on National Highway 326 in Rayagada district. The incident occurred near Mukundpur in Kolnara block while the car was heading towards Similiguda and the bus towards Machkund. While the seven occupants of the car escaped narrowly, three bus passengers sustained injuries and were rushed to the hospital by locals. Police have launched an investigation into the cause of the accident. https://sambad.in/district/rayagada/bus-hits-atiga-car-from-behind-rayagada-3-injured-12240810

The article lists 8 natural foods to improve eyesight. Eggs and oranges provide antioxidants and Vitamin C. Green leafy vegetables like spinach reduce cataract risk. Nuts, seeds, and fatty fish (tuna/salmon) offer Omega-3 for retina health. Sweet potatoes and carrots are rich in Vitamin A, aiding night vision. Dark chocolate improves blood flow to the eyes, providing nourishment. https://sambad.in/web-story/foods-that-improve-eyesight-naturally-12247303

Ishak Lima of Gajapati district has been bedridden for 17 years. His son Nikadim left his studies in class 10 to take full-time care of his father. Despite being 75% disabled, Ishak is unable to access several government schemes due to the lack of an Aadhaar card. Financial constraints have halted his medical treatment, and despite repeated attempts, the administrative issues regarding his Aadhaar remain unresolved. https://sambad.in/district/gajapati/nikadim-father-care-story-gajapati-odisha-aadhaar-issue-12243701

An 8-foot-long python was rescued from a farmland near the Tel River in Bahadurpadar village, Kalahandi district. A farmer named Makaranda Majhi and his wife spotted the snake while working in their field and alerted the Forest Department. A wildlife rescue team from Bhawanipatna arrived and safely captured the python. After the rescue, following orders from forest officials, the snake was released back into the Bajragarh forest. Hundreds of villagers gathered to witness the rescue operation. https://www.dharitri.com/8-foot-long-python-rescued-while-working-in-the-field/

Iran has released a video of its Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei to debunk rumors circulating in Israeli media about his deteriorating health. Reports from Israeli Channel 14 and The Jerusalem Post had claimed Khamenei was in critical condition and hospitalized. To counter these claims, Iran's Mehr News Agency shared footage showing the leader active, though the exact date of the recording remains unconfirmed. Iranian authorities maintain that the Supreme Leader is healthy and continues to oversee key national decisions. https://odishasambad.in/mojtaba-khamenei-health-rumours-iran-releases-new-video/

A private Volvo bus traveling from Hyderabad to Bengaluru collided with a truck in Anantapur district, Andhra Pradesh, causing both vehicles to plunge off a bridge. At least 40 passengers were injured, with 10 in critical condition. Police used machinery to rescue trapped passengers and the driver. The injured are receiving treatment at government hospitals in Pamidi and Anantapur. https://sambad.in/india-and-beyond/anantapur-andhra-pradesh-bus-truck-accident-40-injured-bridge-12244953

The Sri Gundicha Temple in Puri is undergoing extensive renovation to become a living museum of Jagannath culture. The temple walls will feature traditional artwork depicting the story of the nine-day journey, King Indradyumna, and Queen Gundicha. A new light and sound show will also be introduced to educate devotees. While entry tickets are set at 10 INR, the temple remains closed to the public due to ongoing beautification work, causing dissatisfaction among visiting devotees who urge the administration to reopen it soon. https://sambad.in/state/the-walls-of-srigundicha-will-speak-the-words-of-sri-jagannath-12248935

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has given new political signals, sparking intense speculation about the future of Odisha politics. His recent actions and statements suggest a possible strategic shift or major upcoming changes in the political landscape of the state. Observers are keenly watching his next moves as the political atmosphere heats up. https://odia.news18.com/videos/videos/dharmendra-pradhan-political-news-odisha-bjp-dkp-404147.html

The Odisha government has released the official schedule for Independence Day 2026 flag-hoisting ceremonies. The Chief Minister will hoist the national flag at the state-level function. Deputy CM KV Singh Deo will lead the ceremony in Kalahandi, while Deputy CM Pravati Parida will be in Sundargarh. Other ministers have been assigned various districts such as Cuttack, Sambalpur, and Ganjam. In the remaining districts, RDCs and District Collectors will officiate the celebrations. https://zeenews.india.com/hindi/zeeodisha/state-news/independence-day-2026-who-will-hoist-the-flag-where-see-the-list/3286035