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

A 1-km stretch of the Kani river embankment in Jajpur's Dasarathpur block has caved in due to heavy rains. Locals allege poor construction quality despite an expenditure of 7 crore rupees. With the Baitarani river's water level rising at Akhuapada, residents fear potential flooding as the embankment remains vulnerable. An investigation into the contractors' work has been demanded. https://sambad.in/district/jajpur/the-kani-river-embankment-has-been-breached-12138568

Rahul Dravid's younger son, Anvay Dravid, displayed a stellar performance in the second U-19 ODI against Sri Lanka in Hambantota. Coming in when the team was struggling at 81/4, Anvay scored a brilliant 87 off 67 balls, including a 47-ball half-century. He shared a crucial 145-run partnership for the fifth wicket with Arjun Rajput (76), helping India reach a competitive total. His ability to anchor the innings under pressure has led fans to compare him to his legendary father, Rahul Dravid. https://www.dharitri.com/dravids-younger-son-created-a-stir-he-did-such-a-feat-on-the-cricket-field/

Heavy rains have caused a bridge to collapse in the Dashapalla block of Odisha, specifically on the road connecting to Naradigochha village. This has completely disrupted transportation for residents of 3-4 nearby villages. Despite previous protests by villagers and promises from the block administration last year to repair the already weakened structure, no action was taken. Additionally, the water level of the Baitarani River is rising at Akhuapada, leading authorities to issue warnings to local residents. https://sambad.in/district/nayagarh/bridge-collapsed-due-to-heavy-rain-traffic-disrupted-12138612

Taking advantage of continuous rain for three days, miscreants stole approximately 700 meters of electric wire from seven poles near Shirol-Kandel village in Kesinga block, Kalahandi. The theft occurred at an LI point that serves as a vital irrigation source for about 200 local farmers. Baidyaraj Sadananda Putel, President of the Pani Panchayat, discovered the theft and filed a formal complaint at the Kesinga police station. Police are investigating the matter in coordination with the Electricity Department Junior Engineer. https://www.dharitri.com/electricity-wires-stolen-from-li-point-in-kesinga/

Women from Maa Kalijai SHG in Ganjam district have approached the District Collector alleging misappropriation of loan funds. They claimed that out of a sanctioned loan of 10 lakh rupees from Odisha Gramya Bank, they received only 9,39,154 rupees. The women accused the CRP and the Bank Manager of being involved in the fraud and submitted a memorandum to the Additional District Collector seeking a formal investigation and justice. https://www.dharitri.com/shg-group-loan-money-embezzlement-incident/

Odisha's Water Resources Department has warned of a possible small-scale flood in the Baitarani river due to continuous low-pressure rains. Residents in Jajpur and Bhadrak districts have been advised to stay alert as water levels at Akhuapada may cross the danger mark. While the Hirakud reservoir level is currently at 604 feet, authorities will decide on opening the gates if it crosses 607 feet. With another low pressure brewing in the Bay of Bengal, the administration is closely monitoring the situation. https://www.samayalive.in/odisha-news/minor-flood-risk---supreme-engineer/article-37388