Indian Railways has introduced special train services between Jammu and Srinagar to facilitate Amarnath Yatra pilgrims. This initiative aims to manage the rush and ensure a safe, comfortable journey for devotees. Measures include Aadhaar KYC verification outside stations to reduce crowding and on-spot registration at Pantha Chowk for those not yet registered. Enhanced security with RFID tracking and coordination between RPF and local police are in place for the 57-day pilgrimage ending on August 28. https://zeenews.india.com/hindi/zeeodisha/state-news/indian-railways-gift-to-amarnath-yatra-pilgrims-introduces-special-jammu-srinagar-train-services/3261299

The Odisha government has decided to distribute the 'Laxmi Purana' to women across the state. This initiative aims to preserve and promote Odia culture, heritage, and the significance of the Laxmi Purana, which is traditionally recited in Odia households during the month of Margasira. The move is seen as an effort to strengthen Odia identity and spiritual values at the grassroots level. https://otvkhabar.in/videosodisha/society/the-government-will-share-lakshmipuran-otvshorts-laxmipurana-odishagovt-12127986

Odisha is experiencing more than normal rainfall this season as the monsoon remains active across the state. The meteorological department reports that the rainfall levels have exceeded average figures, potentially impacting agriculture and local infrastructure. Weather authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. https://otvkhabar.in/videosodisha/society/more-than-normal-rainfall-in-the-state-otvshorts-rain-weatherreport-12136586

The upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament, scheduled from July 20 to August 13, is expected to focus on key issues like the Delimitation (Boundary Redistribution) and Women's Reservation Bill. While the government views delimitation as essential for fair representation, opposition parties raise concerns about its impact on political parity. The session will also likely witness debates on the economy, price hikes, and national security. Additionally, the report mentions that India recorded its fifth driest June due to delayed monsoon rains. https://sambad.in/india-and-beyond/parliament-monsoon-session-july-20-delimitation-womens-reservation-bill-12131595

Three miscreants on a black Pulsar motorcycle robbed more than 30,000 rupees from a medicine businessman, Dilip Kumar Baishakh, at knifepoint on the NH-53 overbridge in Bhuban, Dhenkanal district. The incident occurred during broad daylight while the victim was returning home from marketing. Despite police patrolling nearby at the time, the culprits escaped. Bhuban police have launched an investigation and are examining CCTV footage from nearby establishments. https://www.dharitri.com/looted-more-than-rs-30000/

Maruti Suzuki has announced significant discounts of up to Rs 2 lakh on its Arena showroom models for the month of July. Customers can avail benefits including exchange bonuses, scrappage incentives, and corporate offers. High discounts are available on models like the Victories, Alto K10, WagonR, Swift, and Brezza. However, no discounts have been announced for the Dzire and Ertiga models. https://sambad.in/business/maruti-offers-up-to-rs-2-lakh-discount-on-select-cars-12138987

Members of the Maa Kalijai SHG in Ganjam district have alleged a loan fraud involving a CRP and a bank branch manager. The women claimed that out of a sanctioned 10 lakh loan from Odisha Gramya Bank, they only received around 9.39 lakh, with unauthorized deductions. They submitted a memorandum to the Additional District Collector seeking an investigation and justice against the alleged forgery targeting illiterate and elderly members. https://sambad.in/state/shg-members-allege-loan-fund-misappropriation-in-ganjam-seek-district-administrations-intervention-12139015

Heavy rains in Odisha have led to rising water levels in rivers, with a small-scale flood expected in the Baitarani river. Jajpur and Bhadrak districts are likely to be affected. The state government has issued alerts for low-lying areas. Decisions on opening Hirakud Dam gates will be made within two days, while a potential new low pressure in the Bay of Bengal may further complicate the flood situation. https://odishasambad.in/minor-flood-likely-in-baitarani-river-chief-engineer-issues-alert/

A group of four thieves in Indonesia were caught red-handed by a store owner. Instead of waiting for the police, the angry locals used duct tape to wrap the thieves from head to toe like mummies and gave them weird ears to look like cartoon characters. The video of the incident has gone viral, with many calling it a unique lesson without violence, while others view it as public humiliation. https://argusnews.in/international/funny-indonesia-thief-incident

Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi has indicated that the permanent retention quota for Agniveers under the Agnipath scheme could be increased beyond the current 25%. The Army is reviewing the scheme to potentially absorb more skilled youth into permanent commissions based on operational requirements and field experience. While rumors of a 75-80% hike have been dismissed as unofficial, institutional discussions suggest a significant increase to improve career stability and national security. Currently, 25% are retained for 15 years, while others receive a Seva Nidhi package of ₹11.71 lakh. https://zeenews.india.com/hindi/zeeodisha/education-job/permanent-retention-of-agniveer-may-increased-in-indian-army/3261863