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

Portuguese star footballer Cristiano Ronaldo announced that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be his last. Addressing retirement rumors, the 41-year-old stated that the decision to retire rests solely with him and not the media. Playing in his sixth World Cup, Ronaldo has scored 3 goals in the current tournament, bringing his total World Cup goal tally to 11. He emphasized that his focus remains on helping the national team. https://zeenews.india.com/hindi/zeeodisha/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-confirms-fifa-world-cup-2026-will-be-his-last/3261800

Central government employees may see a significant salary hike under the 8th Pay Commission. Employee unions have proposed a new formula that could increase the basic pay by up to 65%. If implemented, the gross salary for Level-1 employees could rise from approximately ₹37,080 to ₹61,344. The proposals include increasing the fitment factor to 2.10, revising HRA, and merging DA with basic pay. While unions are pressuring the government for an official announcement, a final decision is yet to be taken. https://argusnews.in/business/central-employees-salary-may-rise-from-37000-to-61000

The drainage system in Bargarh city has collapsed, causing rainwater mixed with waste to flood several government offices, including the Collector's office. In a unique protest against this mismanagement, members of the Bargarh Student Congress, led by State President Gaurav Pati Azad, swam using tubes in the accumulated rainwater in front of the Collector's office. https://www.dharitri.com/student-congress-floats-on-the-road-to-the-district-magistrates-office-controversy-grows/

India faces England in the 3rd T20I at Nottingham. Captain Shreyas Iyer is looking for his first win as captain after losing the second match. Changes are expected in the playing XI, with Ishan Kishan potentially being replaced by Sanju Samson due to poor strike rate. Additionally, spinner Ravi Bishnoi might make way for pacer Prince Yadav to balance the bowling attack. The series currently stands 1-0 in favor of England. https://www.dharitri.com/ind-vs-eng-3rd-t20i-playing-11-ravi-vaibhav-will-be-ruled-out-these-2-players-may-make-an-entry/

Bollywood actors Ali Fazal and Richa Chadha are set to share screen space as a romantic couple for the first time in an upcoming comedy film directed by Shashi Verma. While they previously worked together in the 'Fukrey' franchise, this marks their debut as leads in a romantic role. Shooting is expected to begin in late 2026 with a planned theatrical release in April 2027. Additionally, Ali Fazal has other major releases lined up, including 'Mirzapur: The Movie' and 'Bantwara 1947'. https://www.dharitri.com/husband-and-wife-will-romance-on-screen-for-the-first-time/

A depression in the Bay of Bengal has caused rough sea conditions, leading to over 34 fishing trawlers from Andhra Pradesh being stranded near Aryapalli in Ganjam district. High winds and tidal waves have prevented fishermen from returning home. The district administration and Coast Guard are conducting rescue operations, with plans to provide shelter at Gopalpur Port. The weather department has advised against entering the sea until July 7. https://sambad.in/state/34-andhra-fishing-trawlers-stranded-near-aryapalli-coast-as-depression-intensifies-rescue-underway-12138978