A tragic tunnel collapse occurred in the Namchi district of Sikkim following a landslide, resulting in 11 deaths and leaving approximately 15 people trapped. The incident took place inside a 7-km long tunnel of the under-construction Teesta Stage-VI hydroelectric project. Heavy rains and suspected toxic gas leaks are hampering rescue operations being conducted by NDRF, SDRF, and local police. Sikkim Chief Minister PS Tamang has expressed deep grief and informed Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah about the ongoing rescue efforts. https://sambad.in/india-and-beyond/11-dead-15-trapped-in-sikkim-tunnel-collapse-rain-hampers-rescue-12185274

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the NEET paper leak issue for the first time, labeling it a 'grave sin' and calling for the harshest punishment for those responsible. During an NDA parliamentary meeting, he emphasized that preventing paper leaks is a collective national responsibility. While the government has arrested 13 individuals, including a chemistry professor through the CBI, protests by the CJP demanding the Education Minister's resignation led to clashes with police in Delhi. PM Modi urged the opposition for constructive cooperation regarding the future of the nation's youth. https://sambad.in/india-and-beyond/pm-modi-calls-for-the-strictest-punishment-for-all-accused-12185292

AWL Agri Business Limited (formerly Adani Wilmar) has relaunched its personal care brand 'Alife' soap range with four new variants: Active Neem, Haldi Chandan, Rosy Glow, and Fresh Lily. The relaunch features improved formulations, skincare-inspired ingredients, and modern packaging under the brand promise 'Khubsurti Kuch Khas.' Officially launched at the Mundra plant in the presence of top distributors, the brand aims to enhance the daily bathing experience with premium quality products available across retail outlets nationwide. https://prajuktiodisha.com/alife-relaunches-its-bathing-soap-portfolio-with-new-variants-for-everyday-beauty-and-care

Under the 'Ama Ganjam, Swachh Ganjam' initiative, a massive cleanliness drive was conducted in Malad Panchayat of Ganjam block. Following the call for Swachh Bharat Abhiyan by PM Narendra Modi and guidance from the Ganjam Collector, Sarpanch Mamata Behera led the program. Participants took an oath to keep the village clean and plastic-free. The drive involved cleaning the roads of Kathagada village and the Panchayat office premises, with active participation from SHG groups, Asha workers, and local leaders. https://www.dharitri.com/aam-ganjam-clean-ganjam-malad-panchayat/

A controversy erupted at the Berhampur Excise Intelligence Office following allegations of a liquor party inside the premises. Two excise constables were allegedly thrashed by Deputy Superintendent Shrutikant Raut after they objected to the drinking session. Viral videos show liquor bottles and heated arguments in the office. The constables have approached the Chief Minister, Excise Commissioner, and Berhampur SP after local police reportedly failed to take action. While the constables allege bribery and abuse of power, the DSP has denied the claims, accusing them of negligence on duty instead. https://otvkhabar.in/odisha/berhampur-excise-office-controversy-erupts-over-alleged-liquor-party-and-assault-on-constables-12184995

Cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Jeremy London highlights five essential habits to prevent heart attacks and ensure long-term heart health. These include quitting smoking, monitoring blood pressure, managing cholesterol levels, preventing insulin resistance before diabetes develops, and reducing social isolation. He emphasizes that maintaining physical health through diet and exercise, alongside emotional well-being and social connections, is crucial for a healthy heart. https://sambad.in/lifestyle/5-heart-health-habits-to-prevent-heart-attack-12185026

Olympic medalist and Padma Shri shooter Gagan Narang visited Puri and offered prayers to the deities at Adapa Mandapa during the Rath Yatra. Emotional after the darshan, he expressed feeling blessed. He was welcomed by senior police and district officials. Narang, a 2012 London Olympics bronze medalist and Chef de Mission for the 2024 Paris Games, has been honored with the Padma Shri and Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna for his contributions to sports. https://odishasambad.in/olympian-shooter-gagan-narang-offered-prayers-to-lord-jagannath-at-adapa-mandapa/

Archaeologists from the ASI and independent researchers have discovered over 35 ancient idols of Ravana in the Mandya and Mysore districts of Karnataka. The discovery is significant as these regions are traditionally linked to Lord Rama and the Ramayana. The findings suggest that ancient communities in these areas held deep faith in Ravana, worshipping him as a devotee of Lord Shiva. Experts believe further excavations could reveal more about the hidden cultural and religious history of Southern India, noting that the region already houses a historic Ravana temple in Nidaghatta village. https://sambad.in/india-and-beyond/more-than-35-ravana-idols-unearthed-in-mandya-mysuru-12185018

FCNR (Foreign Currency Non-Resident) deposits have become a hot topic as they help stabilize the Indian Rupee against the Dollar. Indian banks have collected over $21 billion through FCNR(B) accounts in just 42 days via the RBI's swap window. These accounts allow NRIs to save in foreign currencies like USD, GBP, and Euro, offering tax-free interest and protection against exchange rate fluctuations. The RBI uses these funds as a buffer to manage dollar liquidity and prevent the sharp depreciation of the rupee during global economic volatility. https://odishasambad.in/what-is-an-fcnr-deposit-how-does-this-money-from-nris-boost-the-rupee/

The State Election Commission of Odisha has initiated preparations for the 2027 three-tier Panchayat and Urban Local Body (ULB) elections. A high-level meeting led by State Election Commissioner Madhusudan Padhi outlined the roadmap for an error-free voter list. Door-to-door surveys will commence in October this year. The draft voter list is expected on January 1, 2027, with the final list scheduled for publication on February 10, 2027. Booth Level Officers (BLOs), Anganwadi workers, and ASHAs will participate in the process to ensure all eligible family members are grouped in the same booth and ineligible names are removed. https://sambad.in/state/odisha-panchayat-and-urban-polls-2027-door-to-door-voter-survey-from-october-final-electoral-roll-by-february-10-12185075