A high-level meeting of the Union Ministry of Fisheries was held in Bhubaneswar, attended by Union Ministers Dharmendra Pradhan and Rajiv Ranjan Singh. The central government presented a blueprint to accelerate fisheries in Odisha, focusing on increasing investments, exports, and rural fish production for international markets. The policy emphasizes value addition in fish products and support for youth and startups through financial aid and loans. Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan is scheduled to release a sanction letter for sustainable deep-sea fishing projects, aiming to boost the state's economy and double the income of fish farmers. https://argusnews.in/odisha/centre-fisheries-blueprint-bhubaneswar-odisha-deep-sea-fishing

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has lowered India's GDP growth forecast for the 2026-27 fiscal year to 6.4%, down from its previous estimate of 6.5%. Similarly, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has adjusted its projection to 6.6%. The report attributes this potential slowdown to global economic impacts from Middle East conflicts, particularly affecting energy-importing nations. Despite the downward revision, India is expected to maintain its status as the world's fastest-growing major economy with a projected 6.7% growth in 2027-28. https://sambad.in/business/imf-india-gdp-growth-forecast-2026-27-6-4-percent-12146436

Heavy rainfall in Gujarat's Surat and southern regions has caused severe flooding, leading to 9 deaths and 3 injuries within two days. The rainfall broke an 85-year-old record with some areas receiving up to 19 inches of rain. Over 3,400 people have been evacuated to relief camps by NDRF and SDRF teams. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has reviewed the situation and ordered intensified relief and rescue operations as residential and commercial areas remain submerged. https://sambad.in/india-and-beyond/gujarat-heavy-rain-surat-flood-9-dead-thousands-evacuated-12146417

The Indian government has launched the second phase of the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme to enhance regional air connectivity. With a total budget of 28,840 crore rupees, the plan aims to connect small towns and remote areas over the next decade. Key highlights include developing 100 existing airstrips into full airports with an investment of 12,159 crore and constructing 200 modern helipads for emergency services in backward districts. The scheme, which first started in 2016, has been extended to the 2035-36 period to make air travel affordable for common citizens. https://argusnews.in/national/udan-scheme-phase-2-regional-air-connectivity-india

The quarter-final lineup for the FIFA World Cup 2026 is finalized. Heavyweights Portugal and Brazil have been knocked out in the pre-quarterfinals by Spain and Norway respectively. The quarter-final matches will start on July 10, featuring France vs Morocco, Spain vs Belgium, Norway vs England, and Argentina vs Switzerland. Switzerland has reached the quarterfinals after 72 years. The semifinals are scheduled for July 15-16, and the final will be held on July 20. https://odishasambad.in/fifa-world-cup-2026-quarter-finals-schedule/

Western Railway has clarified regarding a viral video claiming a loco pilot stopped a train to buy samosas. The railway stated the claims are false and misleading. The train was already stationary at the RAU home signal due to ongoing engineering work on the route, not for food. Additionally, the railway clarified that the train in the video was a goods train, not a passenger DEMU train as claimed. They urged the public not to believe or spread such misinformation. https://otvkhabar.in/national/engineering-work-caused-train-halt-viral-snack-purchase-claim-completely-false-railway-confirms-12146233

BharatCloud, India's leading sovereign AI cloud service provider, has launched its first brand mascot named 'Badal' in New Delhi. The mascot is designed to humanize complex cloud and AI technology, making it more approachable for businesses, startups, and general users. Co-founded by Rahul Takalapalli and Padma Reddy Sama, the company aims to use 'Badal' as a brand ambassador for digital campaigns and educational outreach. This initiative reflects the 'Made in India' spirit and focuses on strengthening the country's sovereign digital infrastructure while simplifying the digital transformation journey for users. https://prajuktiodisha.com/bharatcloud-unveils-brand-mascot-badal-sovereign-ai-cloud

Indian young cricketer Vaibhav Sooryavanshi failed to perform in two consecutive T20 matches against England, scoring only 14 and 13 runs respectively. Despite his poor performance, the team management is likely to give him more chances, making Sanju Samson wait longer. Captained by Shreyas Iyer, Team India faced a crushing 125-run defeat in the third T20 after being bowled out for 76 while chasing 202. Discussion continues regarding whether Tilak Varma or Vaibhav will be replaced by Sanju Samson in the upcoming matches. https://argusnews.in/sports/vaibhav-sooryavanshi-drop-india-vs-england-t20-selection

High-level security arrangements have been made by the Commissionerate Police for the upcoming visit of Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan to Bhubaneswar. Major locations like the Biju Patnaik International Airport, Lok Seva Bhavan, OUAT, and NISER have been placed under a heavy security blanket. A master plan featuring 98 sections of forces and over 200 senior police officers, including DCPs and ACPs, has been deployed to ensure zero-error security and smooth traffic management during the VVIP visit. https://odishasambad.in/fortress-like-security-blanket-in-capital-for-vice-presidents-visit/

The 77th Van Mahotsav Week concluded in Thuamul Rampur, Kalahandi, organized jointly by the South Forest Range and Taluk Legal Services Committee. JMFC Judge Dr. Tarini Prasad Sahu attended as the chief guest, planting saplings and educating students on the importance of trees. Around 200 saplings of various species were planted across five locations in the block. The forest department officials expressed their commitment to supporting future plantation drives by providing saplings to interested organizations. https://www.dharitri.com/77th-van-mahotsav-week-celebrated-in-thuamul-rampur/