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

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

During the 'Anasara' period when Lord Jagannath remains in isolation after Snana Purnima, devotees are flocking to Alarnath Temple in Brahmagiri for darshan. It is believed that visiting Alarnath during this time grants the same merit as seeing Lord Jagannath. Thousands of devotees gathered on the first day to offer prayers and receive Mahaprasad-like offerings, turning Brahmagiri into a secondary religious hub. https://www.dharitri.com/crowd-of-devotees-at-alarnath-temple/

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 tragic road accident occurred on the Bathinda-Dabwali National Highway in Punjab when a Tempo Traveler carrying pilgrims from Balotra, Rajasthan, rammed into a parked truck. The accident resulted in 4 deaths, including two women, and left 7 others injured. The pilgrims were on their way to the Golden Temple in Amritsar and the Amarnath cave in Jammu and Kashmir. Police identified the deceased through their Aadhaar cards and have launched an investigation into the cause of the collision. https://sambad.in/india-and-beyond/four-dead-seven-injured-after-tempo-traveller-hits-parked-truck-in-punjab-12123105

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi held a review meeting for the upcoming Rath Yatra and issued strict instructions regarding cordon passes. He directed district collectors not to issue any extra passes, restricting them only to essential sevayats and staff. The CM emphasized that the entire world is watching the Puri Rath Yatra and called for seamless coordination to ensure a flawless and safe event for devotees. He expressed confidence in the timely completion of rituals with the cooperation of sevayats. https://www.dharitri.com/cm-gives-assurance-at-rath-yatra-preparation-review-meeting/

A low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal has disrupted the livelihoods of over 10,000 fishermen in Mahakalapada, Kendrapara district. Due to warnings of heavy rain and strong winds from the IMD, fishermen are returning to shore from the deep sea. Coastal villages like Jambu, Batighar, and Ramnagar are on alert. Environmentalists note that local mangrove forests may help mitigate the impact of potential sea storms. https://www.dharitri.com/low-pressure-rains-disrupt-livelihoods-fishermen-return-to-shore-from-sea/

Former US President Donald Trump sparked a fresh controversy by sharing a meme of Italian PM Giorgia Meloni on Truth Social ahead of the NATO summit. The post featured a photo from a previous G7 summit with a caption suggesting a 'restraining order' was needed. Trump claimed Meloni repeatedly requested photos with him and recalled past tensions regarding Italy's refusal to let the US use its runways during a conflict. This post has gone viral as both leaders are expected to meet at the upcoming summit in Turkey. https://sambad.in/india-and-beyond/trump-shares-controversial-meme-on-giorgia-meloni-ahead-of-nato-summit-12137921

The Indore Bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court has delivered a landmark judgment regarding reproductive rights, stating that a woman cannot be forced to continue a pregnancy against her will. The court ruled that a woman's consent is paramount and her husband's permission is not required for an abortion within the legal timeframe. Granting permission to a 13-week pregnant woman, the court emphasized that a woman's dignity, mental health, and personal liberty are constitutionally protected rights under the MTP Act of 1971. https://argusnews.in/national/high-court-allows-abortion-without-husband-consent-landmark-womens-rights-verdict

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi chaired a high-level review meeting in Puri to assess the preparations for the upcoming Rath Yatra. He directed officials to ensure a seamless and flaw-free execution of the festival, prioritizing devotee safety and convenience. Key issues like infrastructure, traffic management, and emergency services were discussed with Deputy CMs and senior officials. The CM emphasized teamwork and coordination among departments and servitors to uphold the state's spiritual tradition. https://zeenews.india.com/hindi/zeeodisha/state-news/odisha-cm-mohan-majhi-review-ratha-yatra-preparation-in-puri/3261689