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

Four feet of rainwater has entered the Swapneswar Mahadev Temple in Talagarh village of Athagarh, Cuttack. Due to ongoing bridge construction near Champapur on the old Cuttack-Sambalpur road, water from the Kantia canal could not drain out, flooding the temple premises. Despite the waterlogging, devotees are performing rituals inside the submerged temple on Monday. https://otvkhabar.in/odisha/rainwater-floods-swapaneswar-mahadev-temple-as-devotees-continue-prayers-despite-challenging-conditions-in-odisha-12139366

In a major development following a meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in Ayodhya, the resignations of General Secretary Champat Rai and Trustee Anil Mishra have been accepted. The meeting reportedly witnessed high tension as members and security personnel raised concerns over fund management and transparency. Allegations of financial irregularities were discussed, and prominent seers like Swami Parmanand Giri Maharaj expressed dissatisfaction. This move is seen as a beginning of significant organizational changes within the trust. https://zeenews.india.com/hindi/zeeodisha/national-international/ayodhya-shri-ram-mandir-trust-meeting-update-champatrai-resignation-accepted/3261919

The first floodwaters of this monsoon season will be released from Hirakud Dam on July 9 at 11 AM due to rising water levels from heavy rainfall upstream. Currently, the reservoir level is 603.89 feet, with an inflow of 93,320 cusecs. Authorities have issued a high alert for Sambalpur and other downstream districts, advising residents to stay away from the Mahanadi riverbed for safety. https://www.dharitri.com/hirakud-gate-to-open-on-9th/

The body of a minor girl was recovered from a house in S. Nuagaon village under Jarada police station. The family alleges she was murdered by her partner with whom she had eloped and recently returned to live as a couple. Neighbors reported hearing signs of physical abuse before the body was found. Police have detained the youth for questioning while the investigation continues. https://www.dharitri.com/minor-girls-body-recovered/

Madhusmita Nayak, the newly appointed Block Education Officer (BEO) of Karlamunda in Kalahandi district, visited various schools after taking charge on Friday. She inspected S. Malpada Upgraded High School, Saragul Primary School, and Putigaon Government Upper Primary School. During her visit, she interacted with students and teachers regarding educational progress. Additional BEO Gopa Mani Sahu and Nodal CRCC Prasanna Kumar Sahu accompanied her during these visits. https://www.dharitri.com/new-block-education-officer-visits-various-schools/

A new train service has commenced between Puri and Koraput. Passengers expressed great joy and excitement as the direct rail connectivity between these two important locations in Odisha was established. This service is expected to significantly improve travel for locals and tourists alike, strengthening the connection between South Odisha and the coastal belt. https://otvkhabar.in/videosodisha/society/koraput-train-at-puri-passengers-expressed-happiness-purikoraputexpress-odishanews-otv-otvshorts-12139203