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

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurated the Puri-Koraput Express and the regular service of Berhampur-Udhna Amrit Bharat Express from Puri station. The Berhampur-Udhna train will now run daily instead of three days a week. This new rail connectivity aims to boost tourism, trade, and regional economic development. Additionally, railway preparations for the upcoming Rath Yatra were reviewed, including the operation of hundreds of special trains and enhanced passenger facilities. https://www.dharitri.com/puri-koraput-express-launched-inaugurated-by-chief-minister-union-railway-minister/

Doctors at SUM Hospital in Bhubaneswar successfully saved the life of a premature baby born at just 24 weeks, weighing only 630 grams. The baby, initially admitted in critical condition, received advanced care including mechanical ventilation and parenteral nutrition in the NICU. Led by Dr. Debasish Nanda, the medical team and staff coordinated a remarkable recovery. The hospital administration and the baby's parents were praised for their support and patience throughout this complex medical challenge. https://prajuktiodisha.com/sum-hospital-doctors-turn-around-premature-death

A 55-year-old man named Suresh Maharana died after being swept away by floodwaters in Sambalpur. The incident occurred late Sunday night when Suresh and his friend were returning home on a bike and tried to cross a flooded culvert near Bagdihiapada. While his friend was rescued alive, Suresh went missing. After an 18-hour intensive search operation, the Sambalpur fire brigade recovered his body near Benakandi on Monday afternoon. https://www.dharitri.com/suresh-was-swept-away-by-flood-waters-dead-body-found-after-18-hours/

An FIR has been lodged against a Superintending Engineer, SDO, and the Project Manager of ARSS company for irregularities and slow progress in the construction of NH-55. The sub-collector of Jagatsinghpur filed the complaint following a site visit by the Collector and SP, who found severe deficiencies in construction quality and delays. The police have initiated an investigation into the matter based on allegations of negligence and failure to meet deadlines. https://www.dharitri.com/enh-paasi-nirmaannare-aniyamitata-podamapeta-pare-ebe-arjyapli-kula-langhuchhi-samudra-chintaare-maschyajibi-sampradaya-galary-kali-mandirare-bada-dharanara-chori-koti-koti-tankaara-alank/

The trailer for actor R. Madhavan's upcoming biopic 'GDN' has been released, featuring him as the legendary inventor and industrialist G.D. Naidu. Known as the 'Edison of India' for his contributions to engineering and industry, the film explores Naidu's struggles, innovations, and impact on technology in pre and post-independence India. Directed by Krishnakumar Ramakumar, the movie also stars Priyamani, Jayaram, and Sathyaraj. Following his success in 'Rocketry', Madhavan continues his streak of real-life based stories. The film is set to hit theaters on July 17. https://otvkhabar.in/entertainment/r-madhavan-returns-to-biographical-cinema-with-gdn-trailer-reveals-his-powerful-transformation-as-inventor-gd-naidu-watch-12138713

Sun, the king of planets, is set to enter the Pushya Nakshatra (ruled by Saturn) on July 20, 2026. Despite the traditional opposition between Sun and Saturn, Pushya is considered highly auspicious. This celestial move is expected to bring significant positive changes for Aries, Gemini, Leo, and Scorpio. Benefits include career advancement, increased self-confidence, financial growth, and social recognition. The transit will influence all 12 zodiac signs differently, marking a period of deep planetary shifts. https://www.dharitri.com/surya-enters-pushya-nakshatra-2026-4-zodiac-signs-will-get-rich/

Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka scripted history by taking a double hat-trick (4 wickets in 4 balls) during a Major League Cricket match between Seattle Orcas and Texas Super Kings. In the final over, with Texas needing 10 runs off 4 balls, Shanaka dismissed four batters consecutively, leading Seattle to a dramatic 9-run victory. He was named Player of the Match for this historic performance. https://www.dharitri.com/w-w-w-w-this-bowler-created-history-with-a-double-hat-trick/

The 77th Van Mahotsav Week 2026 was celebrated in the Ranpur forest range of Nayagarh district, organized by the Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department. Odisha Legislative Assembly Speaker Surama Padhy attended as the chief guest and emphasized the importance of planting trees under the 'A Tree for Mother' campaign. More than 1,000 saplings were planted by the Ranpur forest department during the event, with a future goal of planting 10,000 more trees. Various local officials and department staff were present to ensure the success of the initiative. https://sambad.in/state/77th-van-mahotsav-celebrated-in-ranpur-forest-over-1000-saplings-planted-in-nayagarh-12139468