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

A violent prison riot broke out overnight in Colombo's main prison, Sri Lanka, between two rival drug gangs. The clash resulted in the death of 23 people, including 4 security guards and 19 inmates, while over 100 others were injured. The police Special Task Force (STF) was deployed to control the situation. Preliminary investigations suggest the conflict arose between groups supporting and opposing drug trafficking within the facility. This is considered the deadliest prison riot in the country in over six years, highlighting severe overcrowding as the prison population is nearly four times its intended capacity. https://argusnews.in/crime/prison-clash-in-sri-lanka-many-dead

Water levels in the Baitarani River are rising due to heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas, leading to fears of a small to medium-scale flood in Jajpur, Bhadrak, and Akhuapada. Water Resources Engineer-in-Chief Dillip Raut stated that low-lying areas might be affected as the river nears the danger mark. While Hirakud Dam is also seeing increased inflow, no decision has been made yet regarding opening the gates. Most reservoirs remain empty, reducing the immediate risk of a major flood. https://otvkhabar.in/odisha/heavy-rainfall-increases-flood-risk-as-authorities-closely-monitor-baitarani-and-hirakud-dam-water-levels-12139290

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has launched Odisha's first 'Bee Corridor' on NH-16 (Puintola-Ichchapuram section) to promote biodiversity and environmental protection. Inaugurated by Regional Officer Pradeep Kumar Lal, the project aims to plant 20,000 flowering trees like Neem and Jamun across various routes including Sambalpur and Berhampur. These trees will provide nectar for bees throughout the year, balancing infrastructure development with ecological conservation. https://zeenews.india.com/hindi/zeeodisha/state-news/nhai-launches-odishas-first-bee-corridor-on-nh-16/3261894

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi held a high-level review meeting for Rath Yatra 2026, emphasizing a flawless festival through dedication and coordination. Key focus areas include health, sanitation, and traffic management for an expected 1.5 to 1.7 million devotees. Strict restrictions on cordon passes were announced, limiting them to essential sevayats and staff. The administration is setting up 8 temporary hospitals, 1,700 toilets, and an integrated command control center managed by 225 executive magistrates to ensure safety and discipline during the grand event. https://odia.oneindia.com/odisha/rath-yatra-2026-chief-minister-emphasizes-the-mantra-of-dedication-and-coordination-at-the-review-m-126003.html

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