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

In a major FIFA World Cup upset, Norway defeated five-time champions Brazil 2-1 to reach the quarter-finals for the first time. Erling Haaland scored two goals (79', 90') to stun Brazil, while Neymar's late goal wasn't enough to save his team. With 7 goals in the tournament, Haaland is now a joint-top scorer alongside Messi and Mbappe. The article also highlights Haaland's past connection with India, where he played against the Indian U-17 team in 2016. Norway will now face England in the quarter-finals. https://sambad.in/sports/haland-magic-norway-in-quater-12140005

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

In a strange incident in Gargarabahala village, Redhakhol, Sambalpur, a thief returned stolen gold ornaments and cash just hours after the theft. The incident, which occurred during the day and saw items returned by the same evening, has become a topic of discussion due to the thief's unexpected change of heart. https://otvkhabar.in/videosodisha/society/show-humanity-thief-loot-odisha-crime-otv-otvshorts-humanity-12137981

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

In Ragada and Panasia villages of Jajpur district, students face severe difficulties due to the lack of a school and proper roads. Children have to trek 2.5 km through forest paths and paddy fields to reach the nearest primary school in Kakudia. During the rainy season, the paths become muddy and impassable. Recently, 15 students had to return home midway as they got stuck in the mud and started crying. Despite local authorities being informed about the situation in March, no permanent solution has been implemented for these 23 tribal students. https://sambad.in/education/education-no-school-no-road-students-return-midway-due-to-rain-jajpur-12140289

Vana Mahotsav week was celebrated at Sribantadeipur Government Upgraded High School in Nuagaon block of Nayagarh district. Organized by Red Cross, Eco Club, and the school students, the event featured environmental awareness rallies, slogans, and competitions. Led by Headmaster Purna Chandra Kanhar, students and teachers planted saplings around the campus and took a solemn oath to protect and maintain the trees to promote greenery and environmental safety. https://odishatazanews.com/?p=207395

AIIMS Bhubaneswar has secured the 10th position among top medical colleges in India according to the 'India Today-MDRA Medical College Survey 2026'. It also ranked 2nd among the fastest-growing medical institutions in the country. This significant improvement from its 25th rank in 2021 highlights its excellence in medical education, infrastructure, and research. Executive Director Dr. Ashutosh Biswas and other officials celebrated this achievement as a milestone in healthcare. https://prajuktiodisha.com/%E0%AC%9A%E0%AC%BF%E0%AC%95%E0%AC%BF%E0%AC%A4%E0%AD%8D%E0%AC%B8%E0%AC%BE-%E0%AC%B6%E0%AC%BF%E0%AC%95%E0%AD%8D%E0%AC%B7%E0%AC%BE-%E0%AC%95%E0%AD%8D%E0%AC%B7%E0%AD%87%E0%AC%A4%E0%AD%8D%E0%AC%B0%E0%AC%B0

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi flagged off the daily service of the Berhampur-Udhna (Surat) Amrit Bharat Express, which was previously a weekly service. The CM highlighted infrastructure growth, including a 6-lane road project connecting Berhampur and Jeypore. Additionally, Rs 300 crore was announced for the redevelopment of Berhampur station into a world-class facility. https://odishasambad.in/cm-flags-off-berhampur-udhana-amrit-bharat-express/